Nutrition Knowledge and Food Choices of Elementary School Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kandiah, Jay; Jones, Charlotte

2002-01-01

Investigated the effect of a 3-week school-based nutrition education program on nutrition knowledge and healthy food choices of fifth graders randomly assigned to experimental or control group. Found that the experimental group exhibited a significant increase in nutrition knowledge from pretest to posttest and significant change in compliance in…

Fracture resistance of aluminium oxide and lithium disilicate-based crowns using different luting cements: an in vitro study.

PubMed

Al-Wahadni, Ahed M; Hussey, David L; Grey, Nicholas; Hatamleh, Muhanad M

2009-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the fracture resistance of two types of ceramic crowns cemented with two different cements. Forty premolar crowns were fabricated using lithium-disilicate (IPS Empress-2) and glass-infiltrated aluminium-oxide (In-Ceram) ceramic systems. The crowns were divided into four groups (n=10) with Group 1 (IPS Empress-2) and Group 2 (In-Ceram) cemented with glass ionomer cement. Group 3 (IPS Empress-2) and Group 4 (In-Ceram) were cemented with resin cement. Crowns were tested in a universal testing machine at a compressive-load speed of 10 mm/min. Fracture modes were grouped into five categories. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni post-hoc tests were used to detect statistical significances (p<0.05). The mean (SD) fracture resistance (Newtons) for Groups 1 to 4 were: 245.35 (82.69), 390.48 (67.03), 269.69 (10.33), and 418.36 (26.24). The cement type had no statistical significant effect (p>0.05) on fracture resistance within each ceramic system tested. In-Ceram crowns cemented with either glass ionomer or resin cements exhibited a statistically significantly higher fracture-resistance than IPS Empress-2 crowns (p<0.05). Minimal fracture in the test crowns was the common mode exhibited. Fracture resistance of IPS Empress-2 and In-Ceram crowns was not affected by the type of cement used for luting. Both In-Ceram and IPS Empress-2 crowns can be successfully luted with the cements tested with In-Ceram exhibiting higher fracture resistance than IPS Empress-2.

Cattle Immunized with a Recombinant Subunit Vaccine Formulation Exhibits a Trend towards Protection against Histophilus somni Bacterial Challenge

PubMed Central

Madampage, Claudia Avis; Wilson, Don; Townsend, Hugh; Crockford, Gordon; Rawlyk, Neil; Dent, Donna; Evans, Brock; Van Donkersgoed, Joyce; Dorin, Craig; Potter, Andrew

2016-01-01

Histophilosis, a mucosal and septicemic infection of cattle is caused by the Gram negative pathogen Histophilus somni (H. somni). As existing vaccines against H. somni infection have shown to be of limited efficacy, we used a reverse vaccinology approach to identify new vaccine candidates. Three groups (B, C, D) of cattle were immunized with subunit vaccines and a control group (group A) was vaccinated with adjuvant alone. All four groups were challenged with H. somni. The results demonstrate that there was no significant difference in clinical signs, joint lesions, weight change or rectal temperature between any of the vaccinated groups (B,C,D) vs the control group A. However, the trend to protection was greatest for group C vaccinates. The group C vaccine was a pool of six recombinant proteins. Serum antibody responses determined using ELISA showed significantly higher titers for group C, with P values ranging from < 0.0148 to < 0.0002, than group A. Even though serum antibody titers in group B (5 out of 6 antigens) and group D were significantly higher compared to group A, they exerted less of a trend towards protection. In conclusion, the vaccine used in group C exhibits a trend towards protective immunity in cattle and would be a good candidate for further analysis to determine which proteins were responsible for the trend towards protection. PMID:27501390

Cattle Immunized with a Recombinant Subunit Vaccine Formulation Exhibits a Trend towards Protection against Histophilus somni Bacterial Challenge.

PubMed

Madampage, Claudia Avis; Wilson, Don; Townsend, Hugh; Crockford, Gordon; Rawlyk, Neil; Dent, Donna; Evans, Brock; Van Donkersgoed, Joyce; Dorin, Craig; Potter, Andrew

2016-01-01

Histophilosis, a mucosal and septicemic infection of cattle is caused by the Gram negative pathogen Histophilus somni (H. somni). As existing vaccines against H. somni infection have shown to be of limited efficacy, we used a reverse vaccinology approach to identify new vaccine candidates. Three groups (B, C, D) of cattle were immunized with subunit vaccines and a control group (group A) was vaccinated with adjuvant alone. All four groups were challenged with H. somni. The results demonstrate that there was no significant difference in clinical signs, joint lesions, weight change or rectal temperature between any of the vaccinated groups (B,C,D) vs the control group A. However, the trend to protection was greatest for group C vaccinates. The group C vaccine was a pool of six recombinant proteins. Serum antibody responses determined using ELISA showed significantly higher titers for group C, with P values ranging from < 0.0148 to < 0.0002, than group A. Even though serum antibody titers in group B (5 out of 6 antigens) and group D were significantly higher compared to group A, they exerted less of a trend towards protection. In conclusion, the vaccine used in group C exhibits a trend towards protective immunity in cattle and would be a good candidate for further analysis to determine which proteins were responsible for the trend towards protection.

Decreased Complexity in Alzheimer's Disease: Resting-State fMRI Evidence of Brain Entropy Mapping.

PubMed

Wang, Bin; Niu, Yan; Miao, Liwen; Cao, Rui; Yan, Pengfei; Guo, Hao; Li, Dandan; Guo, Yuxiang; Yan, Tianyi; Wu, Jinglong; Xiang, Jie; Zhang, Hui

2017-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a frequently observed, irreversible brain function disorder among elderly individuals. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) has been introduced as an alternative approach to assessing brain functional abnormalities in AD patients. However, alterations in the brain rs-fMRI signal complexities in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD patients remain unclear. Here, we described the novel application of permutation entropy (PE) to investigate the abnormal complexity of rs-fMRI signals in MCI and AD patients. The rs-fMRI signals of 30 normal controls (NCs), 33 early MCI (EMCI), 32 late MCI (LMCI), and 29 AD patients were obtained from the Alzheimer's disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database. After preprocessing, whole-brain entropy maps of the four groups were extracted and subjected to Gaussian smoothing. We performed a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on the brain entropy maps of the four groups. The results after adjusting for age and sex differences together revealed that the patients with AD exhibited lower complexity than did the MCI and NC controls. We found five clusters that exhibited significant differences and were distributed primarily in the occipital, frontal, and temporal lobes. The average PE of the five clusters exhibited a decreasing trend from MCI to AD. The AD group exhibited the least complexity. Additionally, the average PE of the five clusters was significantly positively correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and significantly negatively correlated with Functional Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ) scores and global Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores in the patient groups. Significant correlations were also found between the PE and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in the patient groups. These results indicated that declines in PE might be related to changes in regional functional homogeneity in AD. These findings suggested that complexity analyses using PE in rs-fMRI signals can provide important information about the fMRI characteristics of cognitive impairments in MCI and AD.

Decreased Complexity in Alzheimer's Disease: Resting-State fMRI Evidence of Brain Entropy Mapping

PubMed Central

Wang, Bin; Niu, Yan; Miao, Liwen; Cao, Rui; Yan, Pengfei; Guo, Hao; Li, Dandan; Guo, Yuxiang; Yan, Tianyi; Wu, Jinglong; Xiang, Jie; Zhang, Hui

2017-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a frequently observed, irreversible brain function disorder among elderly individuals. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) has been introduced as an alternative approach to assessing brain functional abnormalities in AD patients. However, alterations in the brain rs-fMRI signal complexities in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD patients remain unclear. Here, we described the novel application of permutation entropy (PE) to investigate the abnormal complexity of rs-fMRI signals in MCI and AD patients. The rs-fMRI signals of 30 normal controls (NCs), 33 early MCI (EMCI), 32 late MCI (LMCI), and 29 AD patients were obtained from the Alzheimer's disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database. After preprocessing, whole-brain entropy maps of the four groups were extracted and subjected to Gaussian smoothing. We performed a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on the brain entropy maps of the four groups. The results after adjusting for age and sex differences together revealed that the patients with AD exhibited lower complexity than did the MCI and NC controls. We found five clusters that exhibited significant differences and were distributed primarily in the occipital, frontal, and temporal lobes. The average PE of the five clusters exhibited a decreasing trend from MCI to AD. The AD group exhibited the least complexity. Additionally, the average PE of the five clusters was significantly positively correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and significantly negatively correlated with Functional Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ) scores and global Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores in the patient groups. Significant correlations were also found between the PE and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in the patient groups. These results indicated that declines in PE might be related to changes in regional functional homogeneity in AD. These findings suggested that complexity analyses using PE in rs-fMRI signals can provide important information about the fMRI characteristics of cognitive impairments in MCI and AD. PMID:29209199

Taxonomy of Individual Variations in Aesthetic Responses to Fractal Patterns

PubMed Central

Spehar, Branka; Walker, Nicholas; Taylor, Richard P.

2016-01-01

In two experiments, we investigate group and individual preferences in a range of different types of patterns with varying fractal-like scaling characteristics. In Experiment 1, we used 1/f filtered grayscale images as well as their thresholded (black and white) and edges only counterparts. Separate groups of observers viewed different types of images varying in slope of their amplitude spectra. Although with each image type, the groups exhibited the “universal” pattern of preference for intermediate amplitude spectrum slopes, we identified 4 distinct sub-groups in each case. Sub-group 1 exhibited a typical peak preference for intermediate amplitude spectrum slopes (“intermediate”; approx. 50%); sub-group 2 exhibited a linear increase in preference with increasing amplitude spectrum slope (“smooth”; approx. 20%), while sub-group 3 exhibited a linear decrease in preference as a function of the amplitude spectrum slope (“sharp”; approx. 20%). Sub-group 4 revealed no significant preference (“other”; approx. 10%). In Experiment 2, we extended the range of different image types and investigated preferences within the same observers. We replicate the results of our first experiment and show that individual participants exhibit stable patterns of preference across a wide range of image types. In both experiments, Q-mode factor analysis identified two principal factors that were able to explain more than 80% of interindividual variations in preference across all types of images, suggesting a highly similar dimensional structure of interindividual variations in preference for fractal-like scaling characteristics. PMID:27458365

Do moderate aerobic exercise and strength training influence electromyographic biofeedback of the pelvic floor muscles in female non-athletes?

PubMed Central

Gonçalves, Maria Lucia Campos; Fernandes, Samantha; Batista de Sousa, João

2018-01-01

[Purpose] To assess the influence of moderate physical exercise on pelvic floor muscle electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback signal in female non-athletes. [Subjects and Methods] A prospective, non-randomized study of 90 adult females (age ≥18 years) divided into three groups: Intervention (I), which began physical exercise upon study enrollment; Moderate Exercise (ME), comprising those who already engaged in physical activity; and Sedentary (S), comprising those who had a sedentary lifestyle. All participants underwent EMG biofeedback of the pelvic floor muscles upon study enrollment (T1) and at the end of the third subsequent month (T2). [Results] Mean age was 35.7 (SD: 7.5) years, with no significant difference between groups. T1 values in groups I and S were significantly lower than in group ME. There was no statistically significant difference between groups S and I. On comparison between groups at T2, values were highest in group I (18.5 µV vs. 15.3 µV in group S, vs. 16.1 µV in group ME). There was no significant difference between groups S and ME. On age-adjusted analysis, group I exhibited the greatest change between T1 and T2 (I, 4.7 µV; ME, 2.1 µV; S, 1.5 µV). [Conclusion] Females who exercise exhibit better pelvic floor muscle function than those who do not engage in physical activity. PMID:29545703

Lessons from life: Learning from exhibits, animals and interaction in a museum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goldowsky, Alexander Noah

This study examines the effect of interaction on visitor behavior at a public aquarium, experimentally comparing one exhibit under interactive and noninteractive conditions. A quantitative analysis showed that the time visitor groups spent in the study area significantly increased in the interactive condition (median 73 vs. 32 seconds). Further, this effect extended only to those groups within the interactive condition in which at least one member operated the exhibit (median 102 vs. 36 seconds). Both median times and survival curves are compared, and the analysis controlled for group size, age and sex ratios, visitor density, queuing time, and animal activity. Qualitative analyses focused on visitors' spontaneous conversation at the exhibit. Interactive visitors were found to engage in more in-depth exploration, including conducting informal experiments. The amount of discussion was found to correlate with stay time (r = 0.47). Visitor discussion centered on the exhibit, with frequent observations of penguin behavior. Greater enthusiasm was observed for interactive visitors, and coding showed interactive visitors laughed more frequently, and were significantly more likely to speculate on the penguins' reactions and motivations for behaviors. The experimental setup included a control condition consisting of a typical aquarium exhibit, including live penguins, naturalistic habitat, and graphics. The interactive condition added a device designed to mediate a two-way interaction between the visitors and penguins: visitors moved a light beam across the bottom of the pool. The penguins, intern, chased the light. This exhibit was designed both to benefit visitors and to serve as behavioral enrichment for the penguins. A third condition employed an automatically moving light, which elicited similar penguin behaviors, but without allowing visitor interaction. Videotaped data was analyzed for 301 visitor groups (756 individuals). A supplemental study employed video recall interviews. The study concludes that interaction is fundamental to the way in which humans investigate their world, and should play a major role in shaping the educational design of zoo and aquarium exhibits. Interactivity can encourage investigation and experimentation with phenomena, increase exhibit feedback, enhance the psychological dimensions of choice and control, and support visitors' desire for relationships with animals.

The effect of glazing and aging on the surface properties of CAD/CAM resin blocks

PubMed Central

Tuncer, Safa; Kara, Dilan; Demirci, Mustafa

2018-01-01

PURPOSE To investigate the effect of accelerated aging on surface properties of glazed CAD/CAM resin blocks using a 2D surface profilometer and a 3D non-contact optical profilometer. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three types of CAD/CAM resin restorative materials, LAVA Ultimate (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA), VITA Enamic (Vita Zahnfabrik H. Rauter, Bad Säckingen, Germany), and Cerasmart (GC Corparation, Tokyo, Japan) were used for this study. CAD/CAM blocks were cut in 3-mm thickness slabs and divided into three groups; Group 1: control group (specimens polished with 600 grit SCI paper); Group 2: specimens sandblasted, silanized, and glazed with Optiglaze Color (GC); Group 3: glazed specimens subjected to 5000 thermocycles (n=15). The surface roughness (Ra and Rz) was evaluated using a profilometer and a 3D scanning instrument. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (P<.05). RESULTS LAVA, VITA, and Cerasmart exhibited statistically similar Ra and Rz values for each group (P>.05). For VITA and Cerasmart, the specimens in Group 1 exhibited significantly higher Ra values than Group 2 (P<.05). Group 1 (0.502 Ra), Group 2 (0.384 Ra), and Group 3 (0.431 Ra) exhibited statistically similar Ra values for LAVA (P=.062). After 5000 thermocycles, surface roughness values did not change significantly for glazed LAVA, VITA, and Cerasmart (P>.05). CONCLUSION Glaze material Optiglaze Color makes CAD/CAM resin surfaces smooth and glazed CAD/CAM surfaces seem resistant to deterioration under 5000 thermocycles. PMID:29503714

The effect of glazing and aging on the surface properties of CAD/CAM resin blocks.

PubMed

Tekçe, Neslihan; Fidan, Sinan; Tuncer, Safa; Kara, Dilan; Demirci, Mustafa

2018-02-01

To investigate the effect of accelerated aging on surface properties of glazed CAD/CAM resin blocks using a 2D surface profilometer and a 3D non-contact optical profilometer. Three types of CAD/CAM resin restorative materials, LAVA Ultimate (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA), VITA Enamic (Vita Zahnfabrik H. Rauter, Bad Säckingen, Germany), and Cerasmart (GC Corparation, Tokyo, Japan) were used for this study. CAD/CAM blocks were cut in 3-mm thickness slabs and divided into three groups; Group 1: control group (specimens polished with 600 grit SCI paper); Group 2: specimens sandblasted, silanized, and glazed with Optiglaze Color (GC); Group 3: glazed specimens subjected to 5000 thermocycles (n=15). The surface roughness (R a and R z ) was evaluated using a profilometer and a 3D scanning instrument. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test ( P <.05). LAVA, VITA, and Cerasmart exhibited statistically similar R a and R z values for each group ( P >.05). For VITA and Cerasmart, the specimens in Group 1 exhibited significantly higher R a values than Group 2 ( P <.05). Group 1 (0.502 R a ), Group 2 (0.384 R a ), and Group 3 (0.431 R a ) exhibited statistically similar R a values for LAVA ( P =.062). After 5000 thermocycles, surface roughness values did not change significantly for glazed LAVA, VITA, and Cerasmart ( P >.05). Glaze material Optiglaze Color makes CAD/CAM resin surfaces smooth and glazed CAD/CAM surfaces seem resistant to deterioration under 5000 thermocycles.

Protective Effect of Daikenchuto on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice

PubMed Central

Matsunaga, Takaharu; Yamamoto, Naoki; Kawasato, Ryo; Shirasawa, Tomohiro; Goto, Atsushi; Fujisawa, Koichi; Takami, Taro; Okamoto, Takeshi; Nishikawa, Jun; Sakaida, Isao

2017-01-01

Aim. To investigate the effect of daikenchuto (TJ-100; DKT) for ulcerative colitis (UC) model mouse and assess its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Methods. We evaluated the effects of DKT on dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced experimental colitis. First, we assessed the short-term effects of DKT using two groups: 5% DSS group and 5% DSS with DKT group. Colon length; histological scores; and interleukin- (IL-) 10, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA expression profiles were analyzed using real-time PCR. Second, we assessed the long-term effects of DKT, by comparing survival time between 2% DSS and 2% DSS with DKT groups. Results. After 7 days, the colon lengths of DSS + DKT group were longer than those of the DSS group (mean values: 6.11 versus 5.69 cm, p < 0.05). Furthermore, compared to DSS group, the DSS + DKT group maintained significantly higher levels of serum hemoglobin (13.1 versus 10.7 g/dL, p < 0.05) and exhibited significantly higher expression levels of IL-10 (p < 0.05). The 2% DSS + DKT group exhibited significantly longer survival time than the 2% DSS group (70 versus 44 days, p < 0.01). Conclusion. Our results indicate that DKT prevented inflammation in the colon, indicating its potential as a new therapeutic agent for UC. PMID:28210268

Protective Effect of Daikenchuto on Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice.

PubMed

Matsunaga, Takaharu; Hashimoto, Shinichi; Yamamoto, Naoki; Kawasato, Ryo; Shirasawa, Tomohiro; Goto, Atsushi; Fujisawa, Koichi; Takami, Taro; Okamoto, Takeshi; Nishikawa, Jun; Sakaida, Isao

2017-01-01

Aim . To investigate the effect of daikenchuto (TJ-100; DKT) for ulcerative colitis (UC) model mouse and assess its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Methods . We evaluated the effects of DKT on dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced experimental colitis. First, we assessed the short-term effects of DKT using two groups: 5% DSS group and 5% DSS with DKT group. Colon length; histological scores; and interleukin- (IL-) 10, IL-1 β , and tumor necrosis factor- α mRNA expression profiles were analyzed using real-time PCR. Second, we assessed the long-term effects of DKT, by comparing survival time between 2% DSS and 2% DSS with DKT groups. Results . After 7 days, the colon lengths of DSS + DKT group were longer than those of the DSS group (mean values: 6.11 versus 5.69 cm, p < 0.05). Furthermore, compared to DSS group, the DSS + DKT group maintained significantly higher levels of serum hemoglobin (13.1 versus 10.7 g/dL, p < 0.05) and exhibited significantly higher expression levels of IL-10 ( p < 0.05). The 2% DSS + DKT group exhibited significantly longer survival time than the 2% DSS group (70 versus 44 days, p < 0.01). Conclusion . Our results indicate that DKT prevented inflammation in the colon, indicating its potential as a new therapeutic agent for UC.

Adult Attachment Affects Neural Response to Preference-Inferring in Ambiguous Scenarios: Evidence From an fMRI Study

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xing; Ran, Guangming; Xu, Wenjian; Ma, Yuanxiao; Chen, Xu

2018-01-01

Humans are highly social animals, and the ability to cater to the preferences of other individuals is encouraged by society. Preference-inferring is an important aspect of the theory of mind (TOM). Many previous studies have shown that attachment style is closely related to TOM ability. However, little is known about the effects of adult attachment style on preferences inferring under different levels of certainty. Here, we investigated how adult attachment style affects neural activity underlying preferences inferred under different levels of certainty by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The fMRI results demonstrated that adult attachment influenced the activation of anterior insula (AI) and inferior parietal lobule (IPL) in response to ambiguous preference-inferring. More specifically, in the ambiguous preference condition, the avoidant attached groups exhibited a significantly enhanced activation than secure and anxious attached groups in left IPL; the anxious attached groups exhibited a significantly reduced activation secure attached group in left IPL. In addition, the anxious attached groups exhibited a significantly reduced activation than secure and avoidant attached groups in left AI. These results were also further confirmed by the subsequent PPI analysis. The results from current study suggest that, under ambiguous situations, the avoidant attached individuals show lower sensitivity to the preference of other individuals and need to invest more cognitive resources for preference-reasoning; while compared with avoidant attached group, the anxious attached individuals express high tolerance for uncertainty and a higher ToM proficiency. Results from the current study imply that differences in preference-inferring under ambiguous conditions associated with different levels of individual attachment may explain the differences in interpersonal interaction. PMID:29559932

Effects of Mindfulness-Based versus Interpersonal Process Group Intervention on Psychological Well-Being with a Clinical University Population

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byrne, Ciara; Bond, Lynne A.; London, Miv

2013-01-01

This quasi-experimental study compared a group mindfulness-based intervention (MI) with an interpersonal process (IP) group intervention and a no-treatment (NT) control condition in reducing psychological distress among 112 students at 2 universities. At postintervention, IP and MI group participants exhibited significant reductions in anxiety,…

Pulmonary function studies in young healthy Malaysians of Kelantan, Malaysia.

PubMed

Bandyopadhyay, Amit

2011-11-01

Pulmonary function tests have been evolved as clinical tools in diagnosis, management and follow up of respiratory diseases as it provides objective information about the status of an individual's respiratory system. The present study was aimed to evaluate pulmonary function among the male and female young Kelantanese Malaysians of Kota Bharu, Malaysia, and to compare the data with other populations. A total of 128 (64 males, 64 females) non-smoking healthy young subjects were randomly sampled for the study from the Kelantanese students' population of the University Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia. The study population (20-25 yr age group) had similar socio-economic background. Each subject filled up the ATS (1978) questionnaire to record their personal demographic data, health status and consent to participate in the study. Subjects with any history of pulmonary diseases were excluded from the study. The pulmonary function measurements exhibited significantly higher values among males than the females. FEV 1% did not show any significant inter-group variation probably because the parameter expresses FEV 1 as a percentage of FVC. FVC and FEV 1 exhibited significant correlations with body height and body mass among males whereas in the females exhibited significant correlation with body mass, body weight and also with age. FEV 1% exhibited significant correlation with body height and body mass among males and with body height in females. FEF 25-75% did not show any significant correlation except with body height among females. However, PEFR exhibited significant positive correlation with all the physical parameters except with age among the females. On the basis of the existence of significant correlation between different physical parameters and pulmonary function variables, simple and multiple regression norms have been computed. From the present investigation it can be concluded that Kelantanese Malaysian youths have normal range of pulmonary function in both the sexes and the computed regression norms may be used to predict the pulmonary function values in the studied population.

Pulmonary function studies in young healthy Malaysians of Kelantan, Malaysia

PubMed Central

Bandyopadhyay, Amit

2011-01-01

Background & objectives: Pulmonary function tests have been evolved as clinical tools in diagnosis, management and follow up of respiratory diseases as it provides objective information about the status of an individual's respiratory system. The present study was aimed to evaluate pulmonary function among the male and female young Kelantanese Malaysians of Kota Bharu, Malaysia, and to compare the data with other populations. Methods: A total of 128 (64 males, 64 females) non-smoking healthy young subjects were randomly sampled for the study from the Kelantanese students’ population of the University Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia. The study population (20-25 yr age group) had similar socio-economic background. Each subject filled up the ATS (1978) questionnaire to record their personal demographic data, health status and consent to participate in the study. Subjects with any history of pulmonary diseases were excluded from the study. Results: The pulmonary function measurements exhibited significantly higher values among males than the females. FEV1% did not show any significant inter-group variation probably because the parameter expresses FEV1 as a percentage of FVC. FVC and FEV1 exhibited significant correlations with body height and body mass among males whereas in the females exhibited significant correlation with body mass, body weight and also with age. FEV1% exhibited significant correlation with body height and body mass among males and with body height in females. FEF25-75% did not show any significant correlation except with body height among females. However, PEFR exhibited significant positive correlation with all the physical parameters except with age among the females. On the basis of the existence of significant correlation between different physical parameters and pulmonary function variables, simple and multiple regression norms have been computed. Interpretation & conclusions: From the present investigation it can be concluded that Kelantanese Malaysian youths have normal range of pulmonary function in both the sexes and the computed regression norms may be used to predict the pulmonary function values in the studied population. PMID:22199104

Flash visual evoked potentials are not specific enough to identify parieto-occipital lobe involvement in term neonates after significant hypoglycaemia.

PubMed

Hu, Liyuan; Gu, Qiufang; Zhu, Zhen; Yang, Chenhao; Chen, Chao; Cao, Yun; Zhou, Wenhao

2014-08-01

Hypoglycaemia is a significant problem in high-risk neonates and predominant parieto-occipital lobe involvement has been observed after severe hypoglycaemic insult. We explored the use of flash visual evoked potentials (FVEP) in detecting parieto-occipital lobe involvement after significant hypoglycaemia. Full-term neonates (n = 15) who underwent FVEP from January 2008 to May 2013 were compared with infants (n = 11) without hypoglycaemia or parietal-occipital lobe injury. Significant hypoglycaemia was defined as being symptomatic or needing steroids, glucagon or a glucose infusion rate of ≥12 mg/kg/min. The hypoglycaemia group exhibited delayed latency of the first positive waveform on FVEP. The initial detected time for hypoglycaemia was later in the eight subjects with seizures (median 51-h-old) than those without (median 22-h-old) (P = 0.003). Magnetic resonance imaging showed that 80% of the hypoglycaemia group exhibited occipital-lobe injuries, and they were more likely to exhibit abnormal FVEP morphology (P = 0.007) than the controls. FVEP exhibited 100% sensitivity, but only 25% specificity, for detecting injuries to the parieto-occipital lobes. Flash visual evoked potential (FVEP) was sensitive, but not sufficiently specific, in identifying parieto-occipital lobe injuries among term neonates exposed to significant hypoglycaemia. Larger studies exploring the potential role of FVEP in neonatal hypoglycaemia are required. ©2014 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Sonographic appearance of the flexor tendon, volar plate, and A1 pulley with respect to the severity of trigger finger.

PubMed

Sato, Junko; Ishii, Yoshinori; Noguchi, Hideo; Takeda, Mitsuhiro

2012-10-01

To evaluate trigger digits with sonography to determine morphological changes in the A1 pulley, flexor tendon, and volar plate in relation to the severity of triggering. We evaluated 67 trigger digits and graded them into 1 of 4 groups. We compared the groups according to severity and to contralateral fingers, which served as controls. The thickness of the flexor tendons under the A1 pulley was proportional to the severity of triggering. The anteroposterior thickness of the flexor tendon increased significantly among the grades exhibiting triggering regardless of the affected digit. However, in digits other than the thumb, tendon thickness increased even in the absence of active triggering. Thickening tended to be greater with finger flexion. The A1 pulley exhibited the greatest thickness and the volar plate exhibited significant thickening in the group that exhibited continuous triggering that was easily reduced with active extension (grade III). The flexor tendon thickened significantly before patients experienced triggering except in the thumb. In the thumb, the flexor tendon and A1 pulley thickened significantly only after patients exhibited triggering. Thickening of the volar plate appears to have an important role in continuous triggering. Although most clinicians can easily determine the severity of a trigger digit by clinical examination, ultrasound might be helpful for objectively understanding the severity and response to treatment, by examining the thickness of the flexor tendon and A1 pulley. In particular, sonographic measurement of the A1 pulley might be useful in judging the progression of trigger finger severity. In cases where a Doppler signal is detected inside the A1 pulley, more conservative therapies might be worth considering before surgery. Diagnostic ΙΙΙ. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Mittal, Bharat B., E-mail: bmittal@nmh.org; Wang, Edward; Sejpal, Samir

Purpose: The current study examined the effect of recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) on quality of life (QOL) measures, clinical improvement, and DNA content of thick oropharyngeal secretions (OPS) in patients with head-and-neck (H and N) cancers. Methods and Materials: Thirty-six patients with local-regional advanced H and N cancer receiving chemoradiationtherapy (CRT) were randomized to receive either placebo or rhDNase. Endpoints included MD Anderson Symptom Inventory-Head and Neck (MDASI-HN) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Head and Neck (FACT-NH) scores, along with clinical assessment and DNA concentration of OPS. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in patients' QOL outcomes over themore » study period. Both groups showed an increase in symptom and interference scores, although patients in the rhDNase group showed a greater decline in both scores during the 3 months posttreatment. Similarly, both groups showed a decline in physical and functional well being but recovered in the 3 months posttreatment follow-up, with the rhDNase group exhibiting speedier recovery. Patients in the rhDNase group exhibited significant clinical improvement in OPS, blindly assessed by a physician, compared with the placebo group (67% vs 27%, respectively; P=.046). The rhDNase group showed no change in OPS-DNA concentration, although the placebo group showed a significant increase in DNA concentration during the drug trial (P=.045). There was no differences in acute toxicities between the 2 groups. Conclusions: Our preliminary data suggest that rhDNase did not significantly improve study primary endpoints of QOL measures compared with the placebo group. However, there was a significant improvement in secondary endpoints of clinically assessed OPS and DNA concentration compared with placebo in H and N cancer patients treated with CRT. Further investigation in larger numbers of patients is warranted.« less

Effects of locomotor skill program on minority preschoolers' physical activity levels.

PubMed

Alhassan, Sofiya; Nwaokelemeh, Ogechi; Ghazarian, Manneh; Roberts, Jasmin; Mendoza, Albert; Shitole, Sanyog

2012-08-01

This pilot study examined the effects of a teacher-taught, locomotor skill (LMS)-based physical activity (PA) program on the LMS and PA levels of minority preschooler-aged children. Eight low-socioeconomic status preschool classrooms were randomized into LMS-PA (LMS-oriented lesson plans) or control group (supervised free playtime). Interventions were delivered for 30 min/day, five days/week for six months. Changes in PA (accelerometer) and LMS variables were assessed with MANCOVA. LMS-PA group exhibited a significant reduction in during-preschool (F (1,16) = 6.34, p = .02, d = 0.02) and total daily (F (1,16) = 9.78, p = .01, d = 0.30) percent time spent in sedentary activity. LMS-PA group also exhibited significant improvement in leaping skills, F (1, 51) = 7.18, p = .01, d = 0.80). No other, significant changes were observed. The implementation of a teacher-taught, LMS-based PA program could potentially improve LMS and reduce sedentary time of minority preschoolers.

Effects of Oral L-Carnitine on Liver Functions after Transarterial Chemoembolization in Intermediate-Stage HCC Patients.

PubMed

Hassan, Abeer; Tsuda, Yasuhiro; Asai, Akira; Yokohama, Keisuke; Nakamura, Ken; Sujishi, Tetsuya; Ohama, Hideko; Tsuchimoto, Yusuke; Fukunishi, Shinya; Abdelaal, Usama M; Arafa, Usama A; Hassan, Ali T; Kassem, Ali M; Higuchi, Kazuhide

2015-01-01

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is usually followed by hepatic dysfunction. We evaluated the effects of L-carnitine on post-TACE impaired liver functions. Methods. 53 cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma patients at Osaka Medical College were enrolled in this study and assigned into either L-carnitine group receiving 600 mg oral L-carnitine daily or control group. Liver functions were evaluated at pre-TACE and 1, 4, and 12 weeks after TACE. Results. The L-carnitine group maintained Child-Pugh (CP) score at 1 week after TACE and exhibited significant improvement at 4 weeks after TACE (P < 0.01). Conversely, the control group reported a significant CP score deterioration at 1 week (P < 0.05) and 12 weeks after TACE (P < 0.05). L-carnitine suppressed serum albumin deterioration at 1 week after TACE. There were significant differences between L-carnitine and control groups regarding mean serum albumin changes from baseline to 1 week (P < 0.05) and 4 weeks after TACE (P < 0.05). L-carnitine caused prothrombin time improvement from baseline to 1, 4 (P < 0.05), and 12 weeks after TACE. Total bilirubin mean changes from baseline to 1 week after TACE exhibited significant differences between L-carnitine and control groups (P < 0.05). The hepatoprotective effects of L-carnitine were enhanced by branched chain amino acids combination. Conclusion. L-carnitine maintained and improved liver functions after TACE.

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.

Synovial mesenchymal stem cells from osteo- or rheumatoid arthritis joints exhibit good potential for cartilage repair using a scaffold-free tissue engineering approach.

PubMed

Koizumi, K; Ebina, K; Hart, D A; Hirao, M; Noguchi, T; Sugita, N; Yasui, Y; Chijimatsu, R; Yoshikawa, H; Nakamura, N

2016-08-01

To assess whether synovial mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be used as an alternative cell source for cartilage repair using allogenic tissue engineered construct (TEC). Twenty-five patients (17 female, average age 61.8 years) were divided according to their pathology (control trauma group; N = 6, OA group; N = 6) and RA patients were subdivided into two groups to evaluate the impact of biologics in accordance with whether treated with biologics [Bio(+)RA; N = 7] or not [Bio(-)RA; N = 6]. We compared the following characteristics among these groups: (1) The cell proliferation capacity of SMSCs; (2) The influence of passage number on features of SMSCs; (3) The weight and volume of TEC from the same number of SMSCs; (4) Inflammatory cytokine gene expressions levels of TEC; (5) The chondrogenic potential of TEC; and (6) Osteochondral repair using TEC in athymic nude rats. SMSCs from the four groups exhibited equivalent features in the above evaluation items. In in vivo studies, the TEC-treated repair tissues for all groups exhibited significantly better outcomes than those for the untreated group and no significant differences among the four TEC groups. SMSCs from OA or RA patients are no less appropriate for repairing cartilage than those from trauma patients and thus, may be an effective source for allogenic cell-based cartilage repair. Copyright © 2016 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Laterality of Grooming and Tool Use in a Group of Captive Bonobos (Pan paniscus).

PubMed

Brand, Colin M; Marchant, Linda F; Boose, Klaree J; White, Frances J; Rood, Tabatha M; Meinelt, Audra

2017-01-01

Humans exhibit population level handedness for the right hand; however, the evolution of this behavioral phenotype is poorly understood. Here, we compared the laterality of a simple task (grooming) and a complex task (tool use) to investigate whether increasing task difficulty elicited individual hand preference among a group of captive bonobos (Pan paniscus). Subjects were 17 bonobos housed at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Laterality of grooming was recorded using group scans; tool use was recorded using all-occurrence sampling. Grooming was characterized as unimanual or bimanual, and both tasks were scored as right-handed or left-handed. Most individuals did not exhibit significant hand preference for unimanual or bimanual (asymmetrical hand use) grooming, although 1 individual was lateralized for each. For the 8 subjects who engaged in termite fishing enough for statistical testing, 7 individuals exhibited significant laterality and strong individual hand preference. Four subjects preferred their left hand, 3 preferred their right, and 1 had no preference. Grooming, a simple behavior, was not lateralized in this group, yet a more complex behavior revealed a strong individual hand preference, and these results are congruent with other recent findings that demonstrate complex tasks elicit hand preference in bonobos. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Heterogeneity of Depressive Symptom Trajectories through Adolescence: Predicting Outcomes in Young Adulthood.

PubMed

Chaiton, Michael; Contreras, Gisèle; Brunet, Jennifer; Sabiston, Catherine M; O'Loughlin, Erin; Low, Nancy C P; Karp, Igor; Barnett, Tracie A; O'Loughlin, Jennifer

2013-05-01

This study describes developmental trajectories of depressive symptoms in adolescents and examines the association between trajectory group and mental health outcomes in young adulthood. Depressive symptoms were self-reported every three months from grade seven through grade 11 by 1293 adolescents in the Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) study and followed in young adulthood (average age 20.4, SD=0.7, n=865). Semi-parametric growth modeling was used to identify sex-specific trajectories of depressive symptoms. THREE DISTINCT TRAJECTORY GROUPS WERE IDENTIFIED: 50% of boys and 29% of girls exhibited low, decreasing levels of depressive symptoms; 14% of boys and 28% of girls exhibited high and increasing levels; and 36% of boys and 43% of girls exhibited moderate levels with linear increase. Trajectory group was a statistically significant independent predictor of depression, stress, and self-rated mental health in young adulthood in boys and girls. Boys, but not girls, in the high trajectory group had a statistically significant increase in the likelihood of seeking psychiatric care. Substantial heterogeneity in changes in depressive symptoms over time was found. Because early depressive symptoms predict mental health problems in young adulthood, monitoring adolescents for depressive symptoms may help identify those most at risk and in need of intervention.

Salmonella enterica Serovar Enteritidis Ghosts Carrying the Escherichia coli Heat-Labile Enterotoxin B Subunit Are Capable of Inducing Enhanced Protective Immune Responses

PubMed Central

Jawale, Chetan V.

2014-01-01

The Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (LTB) is a potent vaccine adjuvant. Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis ghosts carrying LTB (S. Enteritidis-LTB ghosts) were genetically constructed using a novel plasmid, pJHL187-LTB, designed for the coexpression of the LTB and E lysis proteins. S. Enteritidis-LTB ghosts were characterized using scanning electron microscopy to visualize their transmembrane tunnel structures. The expression of LTB in S. Enteritidis-LTB ghost preparations was confirmed by immunoblot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The parenteral adjuvant activity of LTB was demonstrated by immunizing chickens with either S. Enteritidis-LTB ghosts or S. Enteritidis ghosts. Chickens were intramuscularly primed at 5 weeks of age and subsequently boosted at 8 weeks of age. In total, 60 chickens were equally divided into three groups (n = 20 for each): group A, nonvaccinated control; group B, immunized with S. Enteritidis-LTB ghosts; and group C, immunized with S. Enteritidis ghosts. Compared with the nonimmunized chickens (group A), the immunized chickens (groups B and C) exhibited increased titers of plasma IgG and intestinal secretory IgA antibodies. The CD3+ CD4+ subpopulation of T cells was also significantly increased in both immunized groups. Among the immunized chickens, those in group B exhibited significantly increased titers of specific plasma IgG and intestinal secretory IgA (sIgA) antibodies compared with those in group C, indicating the immunomodulatory effects of the LTB adjuvant. Furthermore, both immunized groups exhibited decreased bacterial loads in their feces and internal organs. These results indicate that parenteral immunization with S. Enteritidis-LTB ghosts can stimulate superior induction of systemic and mucosal immune responses compared to immunization with S. Enteritidis ghosts alone, thus conferring efficient protection against salmonellosis. PMID:24671556

The serum vaspin levels are reduced in Japanese chronic hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Inoue, Junko; Wada, Jun; Teshigawara, Sanae; Hida, Kazuyuki; Nakatsuka, Atsuko; Takatori, Yuji; Kojo, Shoichirou; Akagi, Shigeru; Nakao, Kazushi; Miyatake, Nobuyuki; McDonald, John F; Makino, Hirofumi

2012-12-03

Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine proteinase inhibitor (vaspin) is an adipokine identified in genetically obese rats that correlates with insulin resistance and obesity in humans. Recently, we found that 7% of the Japanese population with the minor allele sequence (A) of rs77060950 exhibit higher levels of serum vaspin. We therefore evaluated the serum vaspin levels in Japanese chronic hemodialysis patients. Healthy Japanese control volunteers (control; n = 95, 49.9 ± 6.91 years) and Japanese patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy (HD; n = 138, 51.4 ± 10.5 years) were enrolled in this study, and serum samples were subjected to the human vaspin RIA system. The measurement of the serum vaspin levels demonstrated that a fraction of control subjects (n = 5) and HD patients (n = 11) exhibited much higher levels (> 10 ng/ml; Vaspin High group), while the rest of the population exhibited lower levels (< 3 ng/ml; Vaspin Low group). By comparing the patients in the Vaspin Low group, the serum vaspin levels were found to be significantly higher in the control subjects (0.87 ± 0.24 ng/ml) than in the HD patients (0.32 ± 0.15 ng/ml) (p < 0.0001). In the stepwise regression analyses, the serum creatinine and triglyceride levels were found to be independently and significantly associated with the vaspin concentrations in all subjects. The creatinine levels are negatively correlated with the serum vaspin levels and were significantly reduced in the Japanese HD patients in the Vaspin Low group.

The two sides of adversity: the effect of distant versus recent adversity on updating emotional content in working memory.

PubMed

Levens, Sara M; Armstrong, Laura Marie; Orejuela-Dávila, Ana I; Alverio, Tabitha

2017-09-01

Previous research suggests that adversity can have both adaptive and maladaptive effects, yet the emotional and working memory processes that contribute to more or less adaptive outcomes are unclear. The present study sought to investigate how updating emotional content differs in adolescents who have experienced past, recent, or no adversity. Participants who had experienced distant adversity (N = 53), no adversity (N = 58), or recent adversity only (N = 20) performed an emotion n-back task with emotional facial expressions. Results revealed that the distant adversity group exhibited significantly faster reaction times (RTs) than the no adversity and recent adversity only groups. In contrast, the recent adversity only group exhibited significantly slower RTs and more errors than the distant adversity and no adversity groups. These results suggest an emotion and executive control pathway by which both the benefits and negative effects of adversity may be conferred. Results also highlight the importance of time in assessing the impact of adversity.

Virtual reality-based cognitive training for drug abusers: A randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Man, David W K

2018-05-08

Non-pharmacological means are being developed to enhance cognitive abilities in drug abusers. This study evaluated virtual reality (VR) as an intervention tool for enhancing cognitive and vocational outcomes in 90 young ketamine users (KU) randomly assigned to a treatment group (virtual reality group, VRG; tutor-administered group, TAG) or wait-listed control group (CG). Two training programmes with similar content but different delivery modes (VR-based and manual-based) were applied using a virtual boutique as a training scenario. Outcome assessments comprised the Digit Vigilance Test, Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test, Wisconsin Cart Sorting Test, work-site test and self-efficacy pre- and post-test and during 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The VRG exhibited significant improvements in attention and improvements in memory that were maintained after 3 months. Both the VRG and TAG exhibited significantly improved vocational skills after training which were maintained during follow-up, and improved self-efficacy. VR-based cognitive training might target cognitive problems in KU.

Synthesis, photophysical, and electrochemical properties of wide band gap tetraphenylsilane-carbazole derivatives: Effect of the substitution position and naphthalene side chain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ho, Kar Wei; Ariffin, A.

2016-12-01

Four tetraphenylsilane-carbazole derivatives with wide bandgaps (3.38-3.55 eV) were synthesized. The effects of the substitution position and of the presence of naphthalene groups on the photophysical, electrochemical and thermal properties were investigated. The derivatives exhibited maximum absorption peaks ranging from 293 to 304 nm and maximum emission peaks ranging from 347 to 386 nm. Changing the carbazole substitution position on the tetraphenylsilane did not significantly change the photophysical and electrochemical properties. However, p-substituted compounds exhibited higher glass transition temperatures than m-substituted compounds. Naphthalene groups with bulky structures had extended the conjugation lengths that red-shifted both the absorption and emission spectra. The LUMO level was decreased, which reduced the optical bandgap and triplet energy level. However, the naphthalene groups significantly improved the thermal stability by increasing the glass transition temperature of the compounds.

Speech Motor Sequence Learning: Effect of Parkinson Disease and Normal Aging on Dual-Task Performance.

PubMed

Whitfield, Jason A; Goberman, Alexander M

2017-06-22

Everyday communication is carried out concurrently with other tasks. Therefore, determining how dual tasks interfere with newly learned speech motor skills can offer insight into the cognitive mechanisms underlying speech motor learning in Parkinson disease (PD). The current investigation examines a recently learned speech motor sequence under dual-task conditions. A previously learned sequence of 6 monosyllabic nonwords was examined using a dual-task paradigm. Participants repeated the sequence while concurrently performing a visuomotor task, and performance on both tasks was measured in single- and dual-task conditions. The younger adult group exhibited little to no dual-task interference on the accuracy and duration of the sequence. The older adult group exhibited variability in dual-task costs, with the group as a whole exhibiting an intermediate, though significant, amount of dual-task interference. The PD group exhibited the largest degree of bidirectional dual-task interference among all the groups. These data suggest that PD affects the later stages of speech motor learning, as the dual-task condition interfered with production of the recently learned sequence beyond the effect of normal aging. Because the basal ganglia is critical for the later stages of motor sequence learning, the observed deficits may result from the underlying neural dysfunction associated with PD.

Plasma microRNAs levels are different between pulmonary and extrapulmonary ARDS patients: a clinical observational study.

PubMed

Zheng, Yi; Liu, Song-Qiao; Sun, Qin; Xie, Jian-Feng; Xu, Jing-Yuan; Li, Qing; Pan, Chun; Liu, Ling; Huang, Ying-Zi

2018-02-13

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) obviously alleviate the damage of the structure and function of pulmonary vascular endothelial cells (VEC). The therapeutic effects of MSC are significantly different between pulmonary ARDS (ARDSp) and extrapulmonary ARDS (ARDSexp). MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as important media of MSC regulating VEC, are not studied between ARDSp and ARDSexp. We aimed to explore the plasma levels difference of miRNAs that regulate VEC function and are associated with MSC (MSC-VEC-miRNAs) between ARDSp and ARDSexp patients. MSC-VEC-miRNAs were obtained through reviewing relevant literatures screened in PubMed database. We enrolled 57 ARDS patients within 24 h of admission to the ICU and then collected blood samples, extracted plasma supernatant. Patients' clinical data were collected. Then, plasma expression of MSC-VEC-miRNAs was measured by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Simultaneously, plasma endothelial injury markers VCAM-1, vWF and inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-10 were detected by ELISA method. Fourteen miRNAs were picked out after screening. A total of 57 ARDS patients were included in this study, among which 43 cases pertained to ARDSp group and 14 cases pertained to ARDSexp group. Plasma miR-221 and miR-27b levels in ARDSexp group exhibited significantly lower than that in ARDSp group (miR-221, 0.22 [0.12-0.49] vs. 0.57 [0.22-1.57], P = 0.008, miR-27b, 0.34 [0.10-0.46] vs. 0.60 [0.20-1.46], P = 0.025). Plasma vWF concentration in ARDSexp group exhibited significantly lower than that in ARDSp group (0.77 [0.29-1.54] vs. 1.80 [0.95-3.51], P = 0.048). Significant positive correlation was found between miR-221 and vWF in plasma levels (r = 0.688, P = 0.022). Plasma miR-26a and miR-27a levels in non-survival group exhibited significantly lower than that in survival group (miR-26a, 0.17 [0.08-0.20] vs. 0.69 [0.24-2.33] P = 0.018, miR-27a, 0.23 [0.16-0.58] vs. 1.45 [0.38-3.63], P = 0.021) in ARDSp patients. Plasma miR-221, miR-27b and vWF levels in ARDSexp group are significantly lower than that in ARDSp group. Plasma miR-26a and miR-27a levels in non-survival group are significantly lower than that in survival group in ARDSp patients.

Bariatric Embolization: Pilot Study on the Impact of Gastroprotective Agents and Arterial Distribution on Ulceration Risk and Efficacy in a Porcine Model.

PubMed

Paxton, Ben E; Arepally, Aravind; Alley, Christopher L; Kim, Charles Y

2016-12-01

To assess whether the number of fundal arteries embolized and use of gastroprotective agents have an impact on ghrelin suppression and gastric ulceration rates. Twenty-two healthy, growing swine (mean, 38.4 kg; range, 30.3-47.0 kg) were evaluated. Six control swine underwent a sham procedure. Gastric embolization was performed by the infusion of 40-µm microspheres selectively into some or all gastric arteries supplying the gastric fundus. In group 1, 6 swine underwent embolization of all 4 arteries to the gastric fundus. In group 2, 5 swine underwent embolization of 2 gastric fundal arteries. In group 3, 5 swine underwent embolization of 1 gastric fundal artery. Animals in groups 2 and 3 were treated with gastroprotective agents (sucralfate and omeprazole). Weight and fasting plasma ghrelin levels were analyzed at baseline and at week 4. Upon animal euthanasia, gross analysis was performed for identification of ulcers. Only group 1 animals exhibited changes in serum ghrelin levels that rendered them significantly lower than those in control animals (P = .049). Group 3 animals exhibited marked elevations in serum ghrelin levels compared with control animals (P = .001). Gross pathologic evaluation revealed 0 ulcers in the control animals, 3 ulcers (50%) in group 1, 2 ulcers (40%) in group 2, and 2 ulcers (40%) in group 3. Administration of gastroprotective agents and embolization of fewer arteries to the gastric fundus did not prevent gastric ulceration in treated animals. Only animals that underwent embolization of all gastric arteries exhibited significant decreases in serum ghrelin levels. Copyright © 2016 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Addressing astronomy misconceptions and achieving national science standards utilizing aspects of multiple intelligences theory in the classroom and the planetarium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarrazine, Angela Renee

The purpose of this study was to incorporate multiple intelligences techniques in both a classroom and planetarium setting to create a significant increase in student learning about the moon and lunar phases. Utilizing a free-response questionnaire and a 25 item multiple choice pre-test/post-test design, this study identified middle school students' misconceptions and measured increases in student learning about the moon and lunar phases. The study spanned two semesters and contained six treatment groups which consisted of both single and multiple interventions. One group only attended the planetarium program. Two groups attended one of two classes a week prior to the planetarium program, and two groups attended one of two classes a week after the planetarium program. The most rigorous treatment group attended a class both a week before and after the planetarium program. Utilizing Rasch analysis techniques and parametric statistical tests, all six groups exhibited statistically significant gains in knowledge at the 0.05 level. There were no significant differences between students who attended only a planetarium program versus a single classroom program. Also, subjects who attended either a pre-planetarium class or a post- planetarium class did not show a statistically significant gain over the planetarium only situation. Equivalent effects on student learning were exhibited by the pre-planetarium class groups and post-planetarium class groups. Therefore, it was determined that the placement of the second intervention does not have a significant impact on student learning. However, a decrease in learning was observed with the addition of a third intervention. Further instruction and testing appeared to hinder student learning. This is perhaps an effect of subject fatigue.

The 1999-2003 Summary of the North American Breeding Bird Survey

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pardieck, K.L.; Sauer, J.R.

2007-01-01

Data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey were used to estimate continental and regional changes in bird populations for the 5-yr period 1999-2003 and the 2-yr period 2002-2003. These short-term changes were placed in the context of population trends estimated over the 1966-2003 interval. During 1999-2003, 41% of all species exhibited positive trends over the entire survey area, while 64% of all species exhibited positive change between 2002-2003. The continental and regional percentages of species with positive trends were also analyzed for 12 species groups having shared life-history traits. Survey-wide for the entire survey period, grassland birds exhibited the lowest percentage of increasing species (14%), with their sharpest declines occurring in the West during 1999-2003 (10% increasing). During 1999-2003, short-distance migrants experienced significant declines in all regions, where numbers of species with increasing trends ranged from 22% - 34%. Most species fared well during the 2002-2003 period, with 64% (P < 0.05) increasing survey-wide. This was primarily a result of increases in the Central and Western BBS regions where 21 of 24 species groups exhibited significant increases in the number of species with positive trends.

Anger, hostility, and aggression among Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans reporting PTSD and subthreshold PTSD.

PubMed

Jakupcak, Matthew; Conybeare, Daniel; Phelps, Lori; Hunt, Stephen; Holmes, Hollie A; Felker, Bradford; Klevens, Michele; McFall, Miles E

2007-12-01

Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans were grouped by level of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology and compared on self-report measures of trait anger, hostility, and aggression. Veterans who screened positive for PTSD reported significantly greater anger and hostility than those in the subthreshold-PTSD and non-PTSD groups. Veterans in the subthreshold-PTSD group reported significantly greater anger and hostility than those in the non-PTSD group. The PTSD and subthreshold-PTSD groups did not differ with respect to aggression, though both groups were significantly more likely to have endorsed aggression than the non-PTSD group. These findings suggest that providers should screen for anger and aggression among Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans who exhibit symptoms of PTSD and incorporate relevant anger treatments into early intervention strategies.

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) as explosives detectors: exploring proboscis extension reflex conditioned response to trinitrotolulene (TNT)

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

Taylor-mccabe, Kirsten J; Wingo, Robert M; Haarmann, Timothy K

We examined honey bee's associative learning response to conditioning with trinitrotolulene (TNT) vapor concentrations generated at three temperatures and their ability to be reconditioned after a 24 h period. We used classical conditioning of the proboscis extension (PER) in honey bees using TNT vapors as the conditioned stimulus and sucrose as the unconditioned stimulus. We conducted fifteen experimental trials with an explosives vapor generator set at 43 C, 25 C and 5 C, producing three concentrations of explosives (1070 ppt, 57 ppt, and 11 ppt). Our objective was to test the honey bee's ability to exhibit a conditioned response tomore » TNT vapors at all three concentrations by comparing the mean percentage of honey bees successfully exhibiting a conditioned response within each temperature group. Furthermore, we conducted eight experimental trials to test the honey bee's ability to retain their ability to exhibit a conditioned response to TNT after 24h period by comparing the mean percentage of honey bees with a conditioned response TNT on the first day compared to the percentage of honey bees with a conditioned response to TNT on the second day. Results indicate that there was no significant difference between the mean percentage of honey bees with a conditioned response to TNT vapors between three temperature groups. There was a significant difference between the percentage of honey bees exhibiting conditioned response on the first day of training compared to the percentage of honey bees exhibiting conditioned response 24 h after training. Our experimental results indicate that honey bees can be trained to exhibit a conditioned response to a range of TNT concentrations via PER However, it appears that the honey bee's ability to retain the conditioned response to TNT vapors after 24h significantly decreases.« less

Arginine, N-carbamylglutamate, and glutamine exert protective effects against oxidative stress in rat intestine.

PubMed

Xiao, Liang; Cao, Wei; Liu, Guangmang; Fang, Tingting; Wu, Xianjian; Jia, Gang; Chen, Xiaoling; Zhao, Hua; Wang, Jing; Wu, Caimei; Cai, Jingyi

2016-09-01

The objective of the current study is to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with arginine (ARG), N -carbamylglutamate (NCG), and glutamine (GLN) on rat intestinal morphology and antioxidant status under oxidative stress. Rats were fed for 30 d with one of the following iso-nitrogenous diets: basal diet (BD), BD plus 1% ARG, BD plus 0.1% NCG, and BD plus 1% GLN. On day 28, half of the rats fed BD were intraperitoneally injected with 12 mg/kg body weight of diquat (DT; i.e., the DT group) and the other half was intraperitoneally injected with sterile solution (i.e., the control group). The other diet groups were intraperitoneally injected with 12 mg/kg body weight of DT (i.e., DT + 1% GLN [DT + GLN], DT + 1% ARG [DT + ARG], and DT + 0.1% NCG [DT + NCG]). Rat jejunum samples obtained at 48 h after DT injection were analyzed. Results showed that DT significantly decreased catalase (CAT) activity and glutathione (GSH) content by 58.25% and 56.57%, respectively, and elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) content and crypt depth (CD) by 19.39% and 22.13%, respectively, in the jejunum ( P  < 0.05, relative to the control group). Compared with the DT group, the DT + GLN group exhibited significantly improved villus height (VH), villus width (VW), villus surface area (VSA), CD and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) activity ( P  < 0.05); the DT + ARG group exhibited significantly increased the ratio of VH to CD (H:D) and T-AOC activity ( P  < 0.05); the DT + GLN, DT + ARG and DT + NCG groups exhibited significantly enhanced CAT activity and GSH content as well as decreased MDA content ( P  < 0.05). Moreover, VH, VW, VSA, CD and GSH content in the DT + GLN group were higher whereas MDA content was lower compared with the corresponding values observed in both the DT + ARG and the DT + NCG groups ( P  < 0.05). The H:D ratio in the DT + ARG group significantly increased compared with that in the DT + NCG and DT + GLN groups ( P  < 0.05). Collectively, this study suggested that dietary supplementation with 1% GLN, 0.1% NCG, and 1% ARG was effective in enhancing the antioxidant status and maintaining the morphological structure of rat jejunum under oxidative stress; of these supplements, 1% GLN exerted the greatest effects on mitigating oxidative stress.

A Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Two Novel Desensitising Dentifrices

PubMed Central

Barlow, Ashley P.; He, Jane; Tian, Cindy; Jeffery, Peter; Mason, Stephen C.; Tai, Bao-Jun; Jiang, Han; Rees, Gareth D.; Du, Min Quan

2012-01-01

A comparison of the desensitising efficacy of two commercially available dentifrices with different modes of action was conducted in a randomised, examiner-blind, two-arm, parallel group, 8-week, longitudinal clinical study. Dentifrice A, (Sensodyne Multi Action Iso-Active), contained 50000 ppm KNO3 and 1450 ppm fluoride as NaF. Dentifrice B, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief, contained a combination of 80000 ppm arginine, bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and 1450 ppm fluorine as NaMFP. Subjects (N = 110), stratified into two groups (N = 55), brushed twice-daily for 60 s, over an 8-week period. Sensitivity status, compliance, and safety were determined at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. A fixed-effects ANCOVA statistical model was applied to the Intent-To-Treat population using a two-sided 5% significance level. After 8 weeks, the treatment groups using Dentifrice A and Dentifrice B exhibited mean reductions from baseline of 49% and 45% in air sensitivity visual analogue scale (VAS) score, 61% (both) in examiner-based Schiff Sensitivity score, and clinically significant reductions in tactile pain threshold; all reductions were statistically significant (P < 0.0001). Both treatment groups also exhibited significant reductions across all sensitivity measures at 1, 2, and 4 weeks (P ≤ 0.0059, Dentifrice A; P ≤ 0.0137, Dentifrice B). PMID:23304149

A comparative evaluation of the efficacy of two novel desensitising dentifrices.

PubMed

Barlow, Ashley P; He, Jane; Tian, Cindy; Jeffery, Peter; Mason, Stephen C; Tai, Bao-Jun; Jiang, Han; Rees, Gareth D; Du, Min Quan

2012-01-01

A comparison of the desensitising efficacy of two commercially available dentifrices with different modes of action was conducted in a randomised, examiner-blind, two-arm, parallel group, 8-week, longitudinal clinical study. Dentifrice A, (Sensodyne Multi Action Iso-Active), contained 50000 ppm KNO(3) and 1450 ppm fluoride as NaF. Dentifrice B, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief, contained a combination of 80000 ppm arginine, bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and 1450 ppm fluorine as NaMFP. Subjects (N = 110), stratified into two groups (N = 55), brushed twice-daily for 60 s, over an 8-week period. Sensitivity status, compliance, and safety were determined at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. A fixed-effects ANCOVA statistical model was applied to the Intent-To-Treat population using a two-sided 5% significance level. After 8 weeks, the treatment groups using Dentifrice A and Dentifrice B exhibited mean reductions from baseline of 49% and 45% in air sensitivity visual analogue scale (VAS) score, 61% (both) in examiner-based Schiff Sensitivity score, and clinically significant reductions in tactile pain threshold; all reductions were statistically significant (P < 0.0001). Both treatment groups also exhibited significant reductions across all sensitivity measures at 1, 2, and 4 weeks (P ≤ 0.0059, Dentifrice A; P ≤ 0.0137, Dentifrice B).

A new dietary strategy for long-term treatment of the metabolic syndrome is compared with the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines: the MEtabolic Syndrome REduction in NAvarra (RESMENA) project.

PubMed

de la Iglesia, Rocio; Lopez-Legarrea, Patricia; Abete, Itziar; Bondia-Pons, Isabel; Navas-Carretero, Santiago; Forga, Luis; Martinez, J Alfredo; Zulet, M Angeles

2014-02-01

The long-term effects of dietary strategies designed to combat the metabolic syndrome (MetS) remain unknown. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of a new dietary strategy based on macronutrient distribution, antioxidant capacity and meal frequency (MEtabolic Syndrome REduction in NAvarra (RESMENA) diet) for the treatment of the MetS when compared with the American Heart Association guidelines, used as Control. Subjects with the MetS (fifty-two men and forty-one women, age 49 (se 1) years, BMI 36·11 (se 0·5) kg/m²) were randomly assigned to one of two dietary groups. After a 2-month nutritional-learning intervention period, during which a nutritional assessment was made for the participants every 15 d, a 4-month self-control period began. No significant differences were found between the groups concerning anthropometry, but only the RESMENA group exhibited a significant decrease in body weight ( - 1·7%; P= 0·018), BMI ( - 1·7%; P= 0·019), waist circumference ( - 1·8%; P= 0·021), waist:hip ratio ( - 1·4%; P= 0·035) and android fat mass ( - 6·9%; P= 0·008). The RESMENA group exhibited a significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations ( - 26·8%; P= 0·008 and - 14·0%; P= 0·018, respectively), while the Control group exhibited a significant increase in glucose (7·9%; P= 0·011), AST (11·3%; P= 0·045) and uric acid (9·0%; P< 0·001) concentrations. LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations were increased (Control group: 34·4%; P< 0·001 and RESMENA group: 33·8%; P< 0·001), but interestingly so were the LDL-C:apoB ratio (Control group: 28·7%; P< 0·001, RESMENA group: 17·1%; P= 0·009) and HDL-cholesterol concentrations (Control group: 21·1%; P< 0·001, RESMENA group: 8·7; P= 0·001). Fibre was the dietary component that most contributed to the improvement of anthropometry, while body-weight loss explained changes in some biochemical markers. In conclusion, the RESMENA diet is a good long-term dietary treatment for the MetS.

Glycemic control and adipokines after periodontal therapy in patients with Type 2 diabetes and chronic periodontitis.

PubMed

Wang, Shunqin; Liu, Jingsong; Zhang, Junfeng; Lin, Jiancheng; Yang, Shuyu; Yao, Jiangwu; Du, Minquan

2017-11-27

The mechanism by which chronic periodontitis (CP) affects type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of periodontal therapy (PT) on the glycemic control and adipokines of patients with T2DM and CP with the purpose of elucidating the possible mechanisms by which CP influences T2DM. Forty-four patients with T2DM and CP were randomly divided into two groups according to whether they underwent PT. Periodontal status, blood glucose, and the levels of serum tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), adiponectin (APN), and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) were measured at baseline and after 3 months. The results revealed that the probing depth (PD) and attachment loss (AL) were significantly improved, the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly decreased, and APN and FGF-21 exhibited substantial increases in the intervention group after 3 months (p < 0.05), whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. The glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in both groups decreased significantly after 3 months compared with baseline (p < 0.05), but the intervention group exhibited a significantly greater change (p < 0.05). In conclusion, PT may relieve periodontal inflammation, which causes a reduction of insulin-antagonizing adipokines and an increase in insulin-sensitizing adipokines, thereby eliciting an improvement in glycemic control.

Development of Alendronate-conjugated Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-Dextran Nanoparticles for Active Targeting of Cisplatin in Osteosarcoma

PubMed Central

Liu, Ping; Sun, Liang; Zhou, Dong-sheng; Zhang, Peng; Wang, Yong-hui; Li, Dong; Li, Qing-hu; Feng, Rong-jie

2015-01-01

In this study, we developed a novel poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)-dextran (PLD)-based nanodelivery system to enhance the anticancer potential of cisplatin (CDDP) in osteosarcoma cells. A nanosized CDDP-loaded PLGA-DX nanoparticle (PLD/CDDP) controlled the release rate of CDDP up to 48 h. In vitro cytotoxicity assay showed a superior anticancer effect for PLD/CDDP and with an appreciable cellular uptake via endocytosis-mediated pathways. PLD/CDDP exhibited significant apoptosis of MG63 cancer cells compared to that of free CDDP. Approximately ~25% of cells were in early apoptosis phase after PLD/CDDP treatment comparing to ~15% for free CDDP after 48h incubation. Similarly, PLD/CDDP exhibited ~30% of late apoptosis cells comparing to only ~8% for free drug treatment. PLD/CDDP exhibited significantly higher G2/M phase arrest in MG63 cells than compared to free CDDP with a nearly 2-fold higher arrest in case of PLD/CDDP treated group (~60%). Importantly, PLD/CDDP exhibited a most significant anti-tumor activity with maximum tumor growth inhibition. The superior inhibitory effect was further confirmed by a marked reduction in the number of CD31 stained tumor blood vessels and decrease in the Ki67 staining intensity for PLD/CDDP treated animal group. Overall, CDDP formulations could provide a promising and most effective platform in the treatment of osteosarcoma. PMID:26619950

The Effect of Aggressive Cartoons: Children's Interpersonal Play.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hapkiewicz, Walter G.; Roden, Aubrey H.

Sixty second grade children were randomly assigned to same sex pairs and each pair was randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: aggressive cartoon, nonaggressive cartoon, and no cartoon. Results indicated that there was no difference among the groups on measures of interpersonal aggression although boys exhibited significantly more…

Do frailty and cognitive impairment affect dual-task cost during walking in the oldest old institutionalized patients?

PubMed

Cadore, Eduardo L; Casas-Herrero, Alvaro; Zambom-Ferraresi, Fabricio; Martínez-Ramírez, Alicia; Millor, Nora; Gómez, Marisol; Moneo, Ana B Bays; Izquierdo, Mikel

2015-12-01

The objective of this study was to investigate dual-task costs in several elderly populations, including robust oldest old, frail oldest old with MCI, frail oldest old without MCI, and frail elderly with dementia. Sixty-four elderly men and women categorized into frail without MCI (age 93.4 ± 3.2 years, n = 20), frail with MCI (age 92.4 ± 4.2 years, n = 13), robust (age 88.2 ± 4.1 years, n = 10), and patients with dementia (age 88.1 ± 5.1 years, n = 21). Five-meter gait ability and timed-up-and-go (TUG) tests with single and dual-task performance were assessed in the groups. Dual-task cost in both 5-m habitual gait velocity test and TUG test was calculated by the time differences between single and dual-task performance. The robust group exhibited better 5-m gait and TUG test performances in the single and dual-task conditions compared with the other three groups (P < 0.001), and the frail and frail + MCI groups exhibited better performances than the dementia group (P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed between the frail and frail + MCI groups. However, all groups exhibited lower gait velocities in the verbal and arithmetic task conditions, but the dual-task cost of the groups were similar. Robust individuals exhibited superior single and dual-task walking performances than the other three groups, and the frail and frail + MCI individuals exhibited performances that were superior to those of the patients with dementia. However, the dual-task costs, i.e., the changes in gait performance when elderly participants switch from a single to a dual task, were similar among all four of the investigated groups. Therefore, these results demonstrated that the magnitude of the impairment in gait pattern is independent of frailty and cognitive impairment status.

Metabolic health is more closely associated with prevalence of cardiovascular diseases or stroke than obesity

PubMed Central

Byun, A Ri; Kwon, Seungwon; Lee, Sang Wha; Shim, Kyung Won; Lee, Hong Soo

2016-01-01

Abstract Mounting evidence suggests that not all obese subjects are at increased cardiovascular risk. However, the relationship between the metabolically healthy obese (MHO) phenotype and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) or stroke remains unclear. Therefore, we retrospectively investigated the prevalence of CVDs or stroke according to metabolic health with obese. We studied 3695 subjects (40–85 years) from the Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were divided into 2 groups and 6 subgroups based on the body mass index (BMI) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) components: healthy (exhibiting none of the 5 MetS components) with the followings: healthy-normal weight (BMI < 23 kg/m2), healthy-overweight (BMI = 23–24.9 kg/m2), and healthy-obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2); and unhealthy (exhibiting 2 or more MetS components) with the followings: unhealthy-normal weight, unhealthy-overweight, and unhealthy-obese. In the healthy group (n = 1726), there were 76 CVDs or stroke patients (4.4%), whereas in the unhealthy group (n = 1969), there were 170 (8.6%). The prevalence was significantly different between the 2 groups (P < 0.001). However, the prevalence was not significantly different among healthy subgroups (P = 0.4072). The prevalence in unhealthy subgroups also demonstrated no statistically significant difference (P = 0.3798). We suggest that the prevalence of CVDs or stroke is different between metabolically healthy and unhealthy phenotype. Furthermore, MHO did not reveal higher CVDs or stroke prevalence rather than metabolically healthy other groups. Additional cohort studies are needed to explain causality between CVDs or stroke incidence and subjects exhibiting the MHO phenotype. PMID:27310991

Voluntary exercise increases resilience to social defeat stress in Syrian hamsters.

PubMed

Kingston, Rody C; Smith, Michael; Lacey, Tiara; Edwards, Malcolm; Best, Janae N; Markham, Chris M

2018-05-01

Exposure to social stressors can cause profound changes in an individual's well-being and can be an underlying factor in the etiology of a variety of psychopathologies, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In Syrian hamsters, a single social defeat experience results in behavioral changes collectively known as conditioned defeat (CD), and includes an abolishment of territorial aggression and the emergence of high levels of defensive behaviors. In contrast, voluntary exercise has been shown to promote stress resilience and can also have anxiolytic-like effects. Although several studies have investigated the resilience-inducing effects of voluntary exercise after exposure to physical stressors, such as restraint and electric shock, few studies have examined whether exercise can impart resilience in response to ethologically-based stressors, such as social defeat. In Experiment 1, we tested the hypothesis that voluntary exercise can have anxiolytic-like effects in socially defeated hamsters. In the elevated plus maze, the exercise group exhibited a significant reduction in risk assessment, a commonly used index of anxiety, compared to the no-exercise group. In the open-field test, animals in the exercise group exhibited a significant reduction in locomotor behavior and rearing, also an indication of an anxiolytic-like effect of exercise. In Experiment 2, we examined whether exercise can reverse the defeat-induced potentiation of defensive behaviors using the CD model. Socially defeated hamsters in the exercise group exhibited significantly lower levels of defensive/submissive behaviors compared to the no-exercise group upon exposure to the resident aggressor. Taken together, these results are among the first to suggest that voluntary exercise may promote resilience to social defeat stress in Syrian hamsters. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cognitive and brain structural changes in a lung cancer population.

PubMed

Simó, Marta; Root, James C; Vaquero, Lucía; Ripollés, Pablo; Jové, Josep; Ahles, Tim; Navarro, Arturo; Cardenal, Felipe; Bruna, Jordi; Rodríguez-Fornells, Antoni

2015-01-01

No study has examined structural brain changes specifically associated with chemotherapy in a lung cancer population. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess differences in brain structure between small-cell lung cancer patients (C+) following chemotherapy, non-small-cell lung cancer patients (C-) before chemotherapy and healthy controls (HC). Twenty-eight small-cell lung cancer patients underwent a neuropsychological assessment and a structural magnetic resonance imaging, including T1-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging to examine gray matter density and white matter (WM) integrity, respectively, 1 month following completion of platinum-based chemotherapy. This group was compared with 20 age and education-matched non-small-cell lung cancer patients before receiving chemotherapy and 20 HC. Both C+ and C- groups exhibited cognitive impairment compared with the HC group. The C+ group performed significantly worse than HC in verbal fluency and visuospatial subtests; C- performed significantly worse than both C+ and HC in verbal memory. Voxel-based morphometry analysis revealed lower gray matter density in the insula and parahippocampal gyrus bilaterally, and left anterior cingulate cortex in C+ compared with HC. Diffusion tensor imaging indices showed focal decreased WM integrity in left cingulum and bilateral inferior longitudinal fasciculus in the C+ group and more widespread decreased integrity in the C- group compared with the HC group. This study demonstrates that lung cancer patients exhibit cognitive impairment before and after chemotherapy. Before the treatment, C- showed verbal memory deficits as well as a widespread WM damage. Following treatment, the C+ group performed exhibited lower visuospatial and verbal fluency abilities, together with structural gray matter and WM differences in bilateral regions integrating the paralimbic system.

Former Abusers of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids Exhibit Decreased Testosterone Levels and Hypogonadal Symptoms Years after Cessation: A Case-Control Study.

PubMed

Rasmussen, Jon Jarløv; Selmer, Christian; Østergren, Peter Busch; Pedersen, Karen Boje; Schou, Morten; Gustafsson, Finn; Faber, Jens; Juul, Anders; Kistorp, Caroline

2016-01-01

Abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is highly prevalent among male recreational athletes. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of AAS abuse on reproductive hormone levels and symptoms suggestive of hypogonadism in current and former AAS abusers. This study had a cross-sectional case-control design and involved 37 current AAS abusers, 33 former AAS abusers (mean (95%CI) elapsed duration since AAS cessation: 2.5 (1.7; 3.7) years) and 30 healthy control participants. All participants were aged 18-50 years and were involved in recreational strength training. Reproductive hormones (FSH, LH, testosterone, inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)) were measured using morning blood samples. Symptoms of hypogonadism (depressive symptoms, fatigue, decreased libido and erectile dysfunction) were recorded systematically. Former AAS abusers exhibited significantly lower median (25th -75th percentiles) total and free testosterone levels than control participants (total testosterone: 14.4 (11.9-17.7) nmol/l vs. 18.8 (16.6-22.0) nmol/l) (P < 0.01). Overall, 27.2% (13.3; 45.5) of former AAS abusers exhibited plasma total testosterone levels below the lower reference limit (12.1 nmol/l) whereas no control participants exhibited testosterone below this limit (P < 0.01). Gonadotropins were significantly suppressed, and inhibin B and AMH were significantly decreased in current AAS abusers compared with former AAS abusers and control participants (P < 0.01). The group of former AAS abusers had higher proportions of participants with depressive symptoms ((24.2%) (11.1; 42.2)), erectile dysfunction ((27.3%) (13.3; 45.6)) and decreased libido ((40.1%) (23.2; 57.0)) than the other two groups (trend analyses: P < 0.05). Former AAS abusers exhibited significantly lower plasma testosterone levels and higher frequencies of symptoms suggestive of hypogonadism than healthy control participants years after AAS cessation. Current AAS abusers exhibited severely decreased AMH and inhibin B indicative of impaired spermatogenesis.

β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate Did Not Enhance High Intensity Resistance Training-Induced Improvements in Myofiber Dimensions and Myogenic Capacity in Aged Female Rats

PubMed Central

Kim, Jeong-Su; Park, Young-Min; Lee, Sang-Rok; Masad, Ihssan S.; Khamoui, Andy V.; Jo, Edward; Park, Bong-Sup; Arjmandi, Bahram H.; Panton, Lynn B.; Lee, Won Jun; Grant, Samuel C.

2012-01-01

Older women exhibit blunted skeletal muscle hypertrophy following resistance training (RT) compared to other age and gender cohorts that is partially due to an impaired regenerative capacity. In the present study, we examined whether β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) provision to aged female rodents would enhance regenerative mechanisms and facilitate RT-induced myofiber growth. Nineteen-month old female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: HMB (0.48 g/kg/d; n = 6), non-HMB (n = 6), and control (n = 4). HMB and non-HMB groups underwent RT every third day for 10 weeks using a ladder climbing apparatus. Whole body strength, grip strength, and body composition was evaluated before and after RT. The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were analyzed using magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry to determine myofiber dimensions, transcript expression, and satellite cells/myonuclei, respectively. ANOVAs were used with significance set at p < 0.05. There were significant time effects (pre vs. post) for whole body strength (+262%), grip strength (+17%), lean mass (+20%), and fat mass (−19%). Both RT groups exhibited significant increases in the mean myofiber cross-sectional area (CSA) in the gastrocnemius and soleus (+8–22%) compared to control. Moreover, both groups demonstrated significant increases in the numbers of satellite cells (+100–108%) and myonuclei (+32%) in the soleus but not the gastrocnemius. A significant IGF-I mRNA elevation was only observed in soleus of the HMB group (+33%) whereas MGF and myogenin increased significantly in both groups (+32–40%). Our findings suggest that HMB did not further enhance intense RT-mediated myogenic mechanisms and myofiber CSA in aged female rats. PMID:23149873

Co-morbidity of cervical incompetence with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) negatively impacts prognosis: A retrospective analysis of 178 patients.

PubMed

Wang, Yongqing; Gu, Xunke; Tao, Liyuan; Zhao, Yangyu

2016-10-12

Cervical incompetence is an important cause of miscarriage and premature birth and polycystic ovary syndrome is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder that is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility and eugonadotrophic hypogonadism. By now, it is still debated whether women with PCOS have an increased risk of miscarriage and there have been no studies about the pregnancy outcomes of cervical incompetence patients with PCOS. The following clinical data of cervical incompetence patients with/without PCOS who were treated between September 2006 and September 2013 were retrospectively analysed: onset gestational age, termination gestational age, pregnancy outcome, co-morbid insulin resistance (IR) in PCOS patients, the influence of IR, co-morbid hyperandrogenism (HA) in PCOS patients, and the influence of HA. The independent samples t-test and chi-square trend test were used to analyse the data. A total of 178 singleton pregnancy cases with cervical incompetence were identified. The average onset gestational age was 23.9 ± 4.3 weeks, and the average termination gestational age was 32.5 ± 5.5 weeks. Of these 178 singleton pregnancy cases, 40 (22.5 %) ended in miscarriage, 82 (46.1 %) ended in preterm birth, and 56 (31.5 %) ended in term birth. Eighty cases (44.9 %) exhibited PCOS co-morbidity, and those cases had an average onset gestational age of 22.3 ± 3.8 weeks and an average termination gestational age of 31.2 ± 5.7 weeks, which were both significantly different from those of the non-PCOS group (both P < 0.001). Compared with the non-PCOS group (15.3 % miscarriage, 48.0 % preterm birth, and 36.7 % term birth), the PCOS group exhibited worse pregnancy outcomes (31.3 % miscarriage, 43.8 % preterm birth, and 25 % term birth) (P = 0.01). Among the 80 PCOS patients, 45 (56.3 %) exhibited co-morbid IR, and the IR group exhibited significantly worse pregnancy outcomes than the non-IR group (P = 0.03). Among the 80 PCOS patients, 54 cases (67.5 %) exhibited co-morbid HA, and there was no statistical difference on the pregnancy outcomes between the two groups. The multivariate logistic regression model revealed that PCOS was significantly correlated with miscarriage (OR: 3.72, 95 % CI: 1.37-10.13). The cervical incompetence patients with co-morbid PCOS exhibited earlier onset gestational ages, earlier termination gestational ages and worse pregnancy outcomes. For patients with co-morbid insulin resistance, the pregnancy outcomes were worse than expected.

The impact of left and right intracranial tumors on picture and word recognition memory.

PubMed

Goldstein, Bram; Armstrong, Carol L; Modestino, Edward; Ledakis, George; John, Cameron; Hunter, Jill V

2004-02-01

This study investigated the effects of left and right intracranial tumors on picture and word recognition memory. We hypothesized that left hemispheric (LH) patients would exhibit greater word recognition memory impairment than right hemispheric (RH) patients, with no significant hemispheric group picture recognition memory differences. The LH patient group obtained a significantly slower mean picture recognition reaction time than the RH group. The LH group had a higher proportion of tumors extending into the temporal lobes, possibly accounting for their greater pictorial processing impairments. Dual coding and enhanced visual imagery may have contributed to the patient groups' similar performance on the remainder of the measures.

Dysfunctional frontal lobe activity during inhibitory tasks in individuals with childhood trauma: An event-related potential study.

PubMed

Kim, Sungkean; Kim, Ji Sun; Jin, Min Jin; Im, Chang-Hwan; Lee, Seung-Hwan

2018-01-01

Individuals who experience childhood trauma are vulnerable to various psychological and behavioral problems throughout their lifetime. This study aimed to investigate whether individuals with childhood trauma show altered frontal lobe activity during response inhibition tasks. In total, 157 healthy individuals were recruited and instructed to perform a Go/Nogo task during electroencephalography recording. Source activities of N2 and P3 of Nogo event-related potentials (ERP) were analyzed. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS) were applied. Individuals were divided into three groups based on their total CTQ score: low CTQ, middle CTQ, and high CTQ groups. The high CTQ group exhibited significantly higher BIS scores than the low CTQ group. P3 amplitudes of the differences between Nogo and Go ERP waves exhibited higher mean values in the low CTQ than the high CTQ group, with trending effects. In Nogo-P3, the source activities of the right anterior cingulate cortex, bilateral medial frontal cortex (MFC), bilateral superior frontal gyrus (SFG), and right precentral gyrus were significantly lower in the high CTQ than the low CTQ group. Motor impulsivity showed a significant negative correlation with activities of the bilateral MFC and SFG in Nogo-P3 conditions. Our study revealed that individuals with childhood trauma have inhibitory failure and frontal lobe dysfunction in regions related to Nogo-P3.

Influence of abutment type and esthetic veneering on preload maintenance of abutment screw of implant-supported crowns.

PubMed

Delben, Juliana Aparecida; Barão, Valentim Adelino Ricardo; Dos Santos, Paulo Henrique; Assunção, Wirley Gonçalves

2014-02-01

The effect of veneering materials on screw joint stability remains inconclusive. Thus, this study evaluated the preload maintenance of abutment screws of single crowns fabricated with different abutments and veneering materials. Sixty crowns were divided into five groups (n = 12): UCLA abutment in gold alloy with ceramic (group GC) and resin (group GR) veneering, UCLA abutment in titanium with ceramic (group TiC) and resin (group TiR) veneering, and zirconia abutment with ceramic veneering (group ZiC). Abutment screws made of gold were used with a 35 Ncm insertion torque. Detorque measurements were obtained initially and after mechanical cycling. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Fisher's exact test at a significance level of 5%. For the initial detorque means (in Ncm), group TiC (21.4 ± 1.78) exhibited statistically lower torque maintenance than groups GC (23.9 ± 0.91), GR (24.1 ± 1.34), and TiR (23.2 ± 1.33) (p < 0.05, Fisher's exact test). Group ZiC (21.9 ± 2.68) exhibited significantly lower torque maintenance than groups GC, GR, and TiR (p < 0.05, Fisher's exact test). After mechanical cycling, there was a statistically significant difference between groups TiC (22.1 ± 1.86) and GR (23.8 ± 1.56); between groups ZiC (21.7 ± 2.02) and GR; and also between groups ZiC and TiR (23.6 ± 1.30) (p < 0.05, Fisher's exact test). Detorque reduction occurred regardless of abutment type and veneering material. More irregular surfaces in the hexagon area of the castable abutments were observed. The superiority of any veneering material concerning preload maintenance was not established. © 2013 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Msx1-modulated muscle satellite cells retain a primitive state and exhibit an enhanced capacity for osteogenic differentiation.

PubMed

Ding, Ke; Liu, Wen-Ying; Zeng, Qiang; Hou, Fang; Xu, Jian-Zhong; Yang, Zhong

2017-03-01

Multipotent muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) have been identified as potential seed cells for bone tissue engineering. However, MuSCs exhibit a rapid loss of stemness after in vitro culturing, thereby compromising their therapeutic efficiency. Muscle segment homeobox gene 1 (msx1) has been found to induce the dedifferentiation of committed progenitor cells, as well as terminally differentiated myotubes. In this study, a Tet-off retroviral gene delivery system was used to modulate msx1 expression. After ten passages, MuSCs that did not express msx-1 (e.g., the non-msx1 group) were compared with MuSCs with induced msx-1 expression (e.g., the msx1 group). The latter group exhibited a more juvenile morphology, it contained a significantly lower percentage of senescent cells characterized by positive β-galactosidase staining, and it exhibited increased proliferation and a higher proliferation index. Immunocytochemical stainings further detected a more primitive gene expression profile for the msx1 group, while osteogenic differentiation assays and ectopic bone formation assays demonstrated an improved capacity for the msx1 group to undergo osteogenic differentiation. These results suggest that transient expression of msx1 in MuSCs can retain a primitive state, thereby enhancing their capacity for osteogenic differentiation and restoring the potential for MuSCs to serve as seed cells for bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Group benefit associated with polymorphic trichromacy in a Malagasy primate (Propithecus verreauxi)

PubMed Central

Veilleux, Carrie C.; Scarry, Clara J.; Di Fiore, Anthony; Kirk, E. Christopher; Bolnick, Deborah A.; Lewis, Rebecca J.

2016-01-01

In some primate lineages, polymorphisms in the X-linked M/LWS opsin gene have produced intraspecific variation in color vision. In these species, heterozygous females exhibit trichromacy, while males and homozygous females exhibit dichromacy. The evolutionary persistence of these polymorphisms suggests that balancing selection maintains color vision variation, possibly through a ‘trichromat advantage’ in detecting yellow/orange/red foods against foliage. We identified genetic evidence of polymorphic trichromacy in a population of Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) at Kirindy Mitea National Park in Madagascar, and explored effects of color vision on reproductive success and feeding behavior using nine years of morphological, demographic, and feeding data. We found that trichromats and dichromats residing in social groups with trichromats exhibit higher body mass indices than individuals in dichromat-only groups. Additionally, individuals in a trichromat social group devoted significantly more time to fruit feeding and had longer fruit feeding bouts than individuals in dichromat-only groups. We hypothesize that, due to small, cohesive sifaka social groups, a trichromat advantage in detecting productive fruit patches during the energetically stressful dry season also benefits dichromats in a trichromat’s group. Our results offer the first support for the ‘mutual benefit of association’ hypothesis regarding the maintenance of polymorphic trichromacy in primates. PMID:27910919

Effect of different high-palladium metal-ceramic alloys on the color of opaque and dentin porcelain.

PubMed

Stavridakis, Minos M; Papazoglou, Efstratios; Seghi, Robert R; Johnston, William M; Brantley, William A

2004-08-01

The color of dental porcelain depends on the type of metal substrate. Little research has been done to document the effects of different types of high-palladium alloys on the color of dental porcelain. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of different high-palladium alloys on the resulting color of dentin porcelain, as well as on that of opaque porcelain after simulated dentin and glazing firing cycles. Three Pd-Cu-Ga alloys, Spartan Plus (S), Liberty (B), and Freedom Plus (F), and 5 Pd-Ga alloys, Legacy (L), IS 85 (I), Protocol (P), Legacy XT (X), and Jelenko No.1 (N), were examined. A Pd-Ag alloy, Super Star (T), was included for comparison to the high-palladium alloys, and the Au-Pd alloy, Olympia (O), served as the control. Six cast discs (16 x 1 mm) were prepared from each of the alloys. Shade B1 opaque porcelain (Vita-Omega) was applied at a final thickness of 0.1 mm. After 2 opaque porcelain firing cycles, the surfaces were airborne-particle abraded, and the specimens were divided into 2 groups. In the first group, 0.9 mm of B1 dentin porcelain was applied. The other group of specimens with only opaque porcelain underwent the same dentin porcelain and glazing firing cycles. Color differences (DeltaE) were determined with a colorimeter between the control and each experimental group, after the second opaque porcelain, second dentin porcelain, and glazing firing cycles. One-way analysis of variance and Dunnett's multiple range test were performed on the DeltaE data (alpha=.05). After the application of dentin porcelain, the 3 Pd-Cu-Ga alloys showed significantly different (P<.05) DeltaE values (S=2.3 +/- 0.5, B=1.4 +/- 0.3, and F=1.3 +/- 0.7) than the control group. After the glazing cycle of this group, the 3 Pd-Cu-Ga alloys and the Pd-Ag alloy exhibited significantly different (P<.05) DeltaE values (S=2.8 +/- 0.8, B=2.2 +/- 0.3, F=1.9 +/- 1.0, and T=1.4 +/- 0.5) than the control group. After the simulated dentin porcelain firing cycles, the specimens with only opaque porcelain exhibited significantly different (P<.05) DeltaE values (S=5.2 +/- 1.4, B=5.4 +/- 0.6, and F=3.9 +/- 0.2) than the control group. The color difference between the 3 Pd-Cu-Ga alloys with only opaque porcelain and the control group increased more after the simulated glazing cycle (S=6.6 +/- 1.5, B=6.3 +/- 0.5, and F=4.6 +/- 0.1). The observed color differences between the Pd-Ga alloys and the control group were not statistically significant at any point. The Pd-Cu-Ga alloys with only opaque porcelain, after the simulated dentin porcelain and glazing firing cycles, exhibited clinically unacceptable color differences. The application of dentin porcelain to the Pd-Cu-Ga alloys resulted in clinically acceptable color differences. The application of dentin porcelain to the Pd-Ag alloy, after the glazing firing cycle, resulted in clinically acceptable color differences (approximately 2.8 to 3.7 DeltaE CIELAB units). The Pd-Ag alloy specimens with only opaque porcelain did not exhibit significant color differences from the control group, whereas significant color differences from the control group after the dentin porcelain and glazing firing cycles were still clinically acceptable.

Reversal of Myoblast Aging by Tocotrienol Rich Fraction Posttreatment

PubMed Central

Wan Ngah, Wan Zurinah; Mouly, Vincent; Abdul Karim, Norwahidah

2013-01-01

Skeletal muscle satellite cells are heavily involved in the regeneration of skeletal muscle in response to the aging-related deterioration of the skeletal muscle mass, strength, and regenerative capacity, termed as sarcopenia. This study focused on the effect of tocotrienol rich fraction (TRF) on regenerative capacity of myoblasts in stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS). The myoblasts was grouped as young control, SIPS-induced, TRF control, TRF pretreatment, and TRF posttreatment. Optimum dose of TRF, morphological observation, activity of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-galactosidase), and cell proliferation were determined. 50 μg/mL TRF treatment exhibited the highest cell proliferation capacity. SIPS-induced myoblasts exhibit large flattened cells and prominent intermediate filaments (senescent-like morphology). The activity of SA-β-galactosidase was significantly increased, but the proliferation capacity was significantly reduced as compared to young control. The activity of SA-β-galactosidase was significantly reduced and cell proliferation was significantly increased in the posttreatment group whereas there was no significant difference in SA-β-galactosidase activity and proliferation capacity of pretreatment group as compared to SIPS-induced myoblasts. Based on the data, we hypothesized that TRF may reverse the myoblasts aging through replenishing the regenerative capacity of the cells. However, further investigation on the mechanism of TRF in reversing the myoblast aging is needed. PMID:24349615

Clinical outcomes of three different types of hardware for the treatment of mandibular angle fractures: a comparative retrospective study.

PubMed

Elsayed, S A; Mohamed, F I; Khalifa, G A

2015-10-01

A retrospective study was conducted to compare the clinical outcomes of three different types of hardware that are used in mandibular angle fracture fixation. Thirty patients were selected from the hospital database. The patients were categorized into the following groups: group A, in which a single 2.0-mm locking miniplate was used; group B, in which a single rigid 2.3-mm plate was used; and group C, in which a single lag screw was inserted. All patients were followed for 6 months. With regard to intraoperative variables, significant differences were found among the groups in the duration of surgery and cost. Group C had the shortest surgical time, followed by group A and then group B. Two patients, one in group A and one in group B, suffered an occlusal discrepancy after surgery. Of the group A patients, two exhibited wound dehiscence and one had an infection. One patient in group B had an exposed plate. Sensory nerve involvement was noted in three group C patients and one group B patient. The lag screw was associated with the fewest complications and exhibited all of the advantages of plating systems in the treatment of angle fracture. The lag screw involved the least hardware and a short operating time, however the differences were not significant. Copyright © 2015 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

EPO-cyclosporine combination therapy reduced brain infarct area in rat after acute ischemic stroke: role of innate immune-inflammatory response, micro-RNAs and MAPK family signaling pathway.

PubMed

Yuen, Chun-Man; Yeh, Kuo-Ho; Wallace, Christopher Glenn; Chen, Kuan-Hung; Lin, Hung-Sheng; Sung, Pei-Hsun; Chai, Han-Tan; Chen, Yung-Lung; Sun, Cheuk-Kwan; Chen, Chih-Hung; Kao, Gour-Shenq; Ko, Sheung-Fat; Yip, Hon-Kan

2017-01-01

This study tested the hypothesis that erythropoietin (EPO) and cyclosporine (CsA) could effectively reduce brain infarct area (BIA) in rat after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) through regulating inflammation, oxidative stress, MAPK family signaling and microRNA (miR-223/miR-30a/miR-383). Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 48) were equally divided into group 1 (sham control), group 2 (AIS), group 3 [AIS+EPO (5,000 IU/kg at 0.5/24/48 h, subcutaneous)] and group 4 [AIS+CsA (20.0 mg/kg at 0.5/24/48 h, intra-peritoneal)]. By 72 h, histopathology showed that BIA was largest in group 2 and smallest in group 1, and significantly larger in group 4 than group 3 (all P<0.0001). The three microRNAs expressed were higher in group 2 than in the other three groups (all P<0.04); between these three latter groups there were no significant differences. The protein expressions of MAPK family [phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2, p-p38/p-JNK], inflammatory (iNOS/MMP-9/TNF-α/NF-κB/IL-12/MIP-1α/CD14/CD68/Ly6g), apoptotic (caspase-3/PARP/mitochondrial-Bax), oxidative-stress (NOX-1/NOX-2/oxidized protein) and mitochondrial-damaged (cytosolic cytochrome-C) biomarkers exhibited an identical pattern to BIA findings (all P<0.0001). The cellular expressions of brain edema (AQP4+), inflammation (CD11+/glial-fibrillary-acid protein+), and cellular damage (TUNEL assay/positive Periodic acid-Schiff stain) biomarkers exhibited an identical pattern, whereas the cellular-integrity markers (neuN+/MAP2+/doublecorin+) exhibited an opposite pattern to BIA (all P value <0.001). EPO-CsA therapy markedly reduced BIA mainly by suppressing the innate immune response to inflammation, oxidative stress, microRNAs (miR-223/miR-30a/miR-383) and MAPK family signaling.

A waitlist control-group study of cognitive, mood, and quality of life outcome after posteroventral pallidotomy in Parkinson disease.

PubMed

Carr, Jason A R; Honey, Christopher R; Sinden, Marci; Phillips, Anthony G; Martzke, Jeffrey S

2003-07-01

The aim of this study was to examine neuropsychological outcome from unilateral posteroventral pallidotomy (PVP) in Parkinson disease while controlling for confounding factors such as test practice and disease progression. Participants underwent baseline and 2-month follow-up assessments of cognition, quality of life, mood, and motor functioning. The surgery group (22 patients) underwent PVP (15 left, seven right) after baseline assessment. The waitlist group (14 patients) underwent PVP after follow up. At follow up, the left PVP group exhibited a decline on verbal measures of learning, fluency, working memory, and speeded color naming. The incidence of significant decline on these measures after left PVP ranged from 50 to 86%. The right PVP group did not exhibit a significant cognitive decline, but fluency did decline in 71% of patients who underwent right PVP. Participants who underwent PVP reported better bodily pain and social functioning at follow up than participants in the waitlist group. Improved bodily pain was evident for 62% of the surgery group, and social functioning improved for 19%. Surgery did not alter reported physical functioning or mood. Dyskinesia improved after surgery, but there were no improvements in "on-state" manual dexterity or handwriting. Most patients who underwent left PVP exhibited declines in learning, fluency, working memory, and speeded color naming. Accounting for retesting effects altered the magnitude of these declines by up to one quarter of a standard deviation, but did not increase the breadth of postsurgical neuropsychological decline beyond that typically reported in the literature. It was found that PVP improved dyskinesia, bodily pain, and social functioning, but did not lead to improvement on other objective and self-reported measures of motor functioning.

Dermal Fibroblasts from Different Layers of Pig Skin Exhibit Different Profibrotic and Morphological Characteristics.

PubMed

Zuo, Yanhai; Yu, Xiaoping; Lu, Shuliang

2016-11-01

In vitro studies of human dermal fibroblast (DF) heterogeneity have long been reported, yet in vivo studies and related research on animals are rare. The objectives of the study were to determine whether the DFs of pigs exhibit heterogeneity and to identify an animal model for the in vivo study of DF heterogeneity. The skin of three female red Duroc pigs (FRDPs) was separated into six layers, and the second and fifth layers (i.e., the superficial and deep dermis) were used in the establishment of wound models and cell cultures. To create the wound models, 54 tongue-shaped flaps were created on one side of the dorsum, and the underlying dermis was then fully replaced with the superficial or deep dermis (the superficial and deep groups, respectively). Skin samples were harvested at postoperative weeks 1, 2, and 3 for measurements of the normal and wounded skin thicknesses. Cells cultured from the superficial and deep dermis (i.e., superficial and deep DFs) were subjected to quantitative estimation of collagen and electron microscopy. The wounded skin thickness in the deep group was significantly greater than that in the superficial group. In contrast with the long deep DFs, the superficial DFs were short and exhibited microvilli-like cell surface projections. Compared with the superficial DFs, the deep DFs exhibited a greater density of rough endoplasmic reticulum and produced significantly more collagen. Similar to humans, FRDPs exhibit DF heterogeneity and should thus be a good animal model for in vivo studies of DF heterogeneity. Anat Rec, 299:1585-1599, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Yoga May Mitigate Decreases in High School Grades

PubMed Central

Butzer, Bethany; van Over, Max; Noggle Taylor, Jessica J.; Khalsa, Sat Bir S.

2015-01-01

This study involves an exploratory examination of the effects of a 12-week school-based yoga intervention on changes in grade point average (GPA) in 9th and 10th grade students. Participants included 95 high school students who had registered for physical education (PE) in spring 2010. PE class sections were group randomized to receive either a yoga intervention or a PE-as-usual control condition. The yoga intervention took place during the entire third quarter and half of the fourth quarter of the school year, and quarterly GPA was collected via school records at the end of the school year. Results revealed a significant interaction between group and quarter suggesting that GPA differed between the yoga and control groups over time. Post hoc tests revealed that while both groups exhibited a general decline in GPA over the school year, the control group exhibited a significantly greater decline in GPA from quarter 1 to quarter 3 than the yoga group. Both groups showed equivalent declines in GPA in quarter 4 after the yoga intervention had ended. The results suggest that yoga may have a protective effect on academic performance by preventing declines in GPA; however these preventive effects may not persist once yoga practice is discontinued. PMID:26347787

Male accessory gland inflammation prevalence in type 2 diabetic patients with symptoms possibly reflecting autonomic neuropathy

PubMed Central

Condorelli, Rosita A; Vicari, Enzo; Calogero, Aldo E; La Vignera, Sandro

2014-01-01

Male accessory gland inflammation or infection (MAGI) is a potentially underdiagnosed complication of type 2 diabetes (DM2); specifically, we reported in a recent study that the frequency of MAGI was 43% among DM2 patients. In previous studies, we have demonstrated that diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) is associated with a peculiar ultrasound characterization of the seminal vesicles (SVs) in DM2 patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of MAGI in two different categories of DM2 patients (i.e. patients with and without symptoms that possibly reflect DAN) and the respective ultrasound characterizations. Sixty DM2 patients with a mean (± s.e.m.) age of 42.0 ± 6.0 years (range: 34–47 years) were classified according to the presence or the absence of symptoms that could possibly reflect DAN (group A: DM2 with symptoms possibly reflecting DAN, n = 28 patients and group B: DM2 without symptoms possibly reflecting DAN, n = 32 patients). The patients in Group A exhibited a significantly higher frequency of MAGI compared with those in group B patients (P < 0.05); moreover, the Group A patients exhibited a significantly higher frequency of ultrasound signs suggestive of vesiculitis (P < 0.05). Finally, the concentrations of lymphocytes but not the concentrations of the leukocytes in the semen were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in group A compared with group B. PMID:24799635

Defense styles in Intermittent Explosive Disorder.

PubMed

Puhalla, Alexander A; McCloskey, Michael S; Brickman, Lauren J; Fauber, Robert; Coccaro, Emil F

2016-04-30

The overreliance on immature and/or neurotic defense mechanisms, as opposed to more mature defensive functioning has been linked to several psychiatric disorders. However, to date, the role of defense styles among individuals with Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) has not been examined. Given that individuals with IED display difficulties controlling their anger and aggression, one might expect these individuals to exhibit more immature and less mature defense styles. The current study compared participants with IED to a personality disorder (PD) comparison group, as well as to healthy volunteers (HV) on the Defense Style Questionnaire, a self-report measure that assesses the extent to which individuals endorse using mature, immature, and neurotic defense styles. Subjects with IED had significantly higher scores than both comparison groups on immature defense styles and exhibited lower scores on mature defense mechanisms. Hierarchical regression of significant defense style subscales showed that higher levels of acting out and lower levels of sublimation uniquely discriminated participants with IED from the PD and HV comparison groups. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and SARs of novel lincomycin derivatives Part 5: optimization of lincomycin analogs exhibiting potent antibacterial activities by chemical modification at the 6- and 7-positions.

PubMed

Wakiyama, Yoshinari; Kumura, Ko; Umemura, Eijiro; Masaki, Satomi; Ueda, Kazutaka; Sato, Yasuo; Hirai, Yoko; Hayashi, Yoshio; Ajito, Keiichi

2018-02-01

In order to modify lincomycin at the C-6 and C-7 positions, we prepared target molecules, which have substituted pipecolinic acid at the 6-amino group and a para-substituted phenylthio group at the C-7 position, in application of palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling as a key reaction. As the result of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies at the 6-position, analogs possessing 4'-cis-(cyclopropylmethyl)piperidine showed significantly strong antibacterial activities against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes with an erm gene. On the basis of SAR, we further synthesized novel analogs possessing 4'-cis-(cyclopropylmethyl)piperidine by transformation of a C-7 substituent. Consequently, novel derivatives possessing a para-heteroaromatic-phenylthio group at the C-7 position exhibited significantly strong activities against S. pneumoniae and S. pyogenes with an erm gene even when compared with those of telithromycin. Finally, in vivo efficacy of selected two derivatives was evaluated in a rat pulmonary infection model with resistant S. pneumoniae with erm + mef genes. One of them exhibited strong and constant in vivo efficacy in this model, and both compounds showed strong in vivo efficacy against resistant S. pneumoniae with a mef gene.

Autonomic Responses to Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis: Effect of Needle Puncture or Electrical Current?

PubMed

García Bermejo, Paula; De La Cruz Torres, Blanca; Naranjo Orellana, José; Albornoz Cabello, Manuel

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to establish if the changes in sympathetic and parasympathetic activity (analyzed through heart-rate variability [HRV]) during ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) is due to the effect of needle puncture only or of the PNE technique per se where the puncture and galvanic current are combined. This was an experimental, case-control study that took place at the University of Seville. Subjects were 36 male footballers who were randomly allocated to three groups: a control group (CG; 12 players), for whom HRV was recorded for 10 min, both at rest and during an exhaustive US examination of the patellar tendon and adjacent structures; a first experimental group (PNE group; 12 players), for whom HRV was recorded for 10 min, both at rest and during application of US-guided PNE in the patellar tendon; and a second experimental group (needle group; 12 players), for whom HRV was recorded for 10 min, both at rest and during application of US-guided PNE without electrical current in the patellar tendon. The outcome measures were the diameters of the Poincaré plot (SD1, SD2), stress score, and sympathetic/parasympathetic ratio. There were no differences between groups in any baseline measurements, nor were there any significant differences between CG measurements (baseline vs. intervention). The PNE group exhibited statistically significant increases in SD1 (p = 0.01) and SD2 (p = 0.004) and statistically significant decreases in SS and S/PS ratio (p = 0.03), indicating increased parasympathetic and decreased sympathetic activity, respectively. The needle group exhibited statistically significant increases in SD2 (p = 0.02) and statistically significant decreases in SS (p = 0.02), indicating decreased sympathetic activity. The application of the US-guided PNE technique caused a measurable increase in parasympathetic activity (detected by HRV), which was due to the combination of needle puncture and electric current.

Paraoxonase lactonase activity (PON-HTLase), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and platelet activating factor-acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) activity in non-obese women with PCOS.

PubMed

Bayrak, Tulin; Dursun, Polat; Bayrak, Ahmet; Gültekin, Murat; Kolusarı, Ali; Cakır, Erdinç; Ozyurt, Merve; Zeyneloğlu, Hulusi B

2012-11-01

Paraoxonase1 (PON1), exhibits both esterase activity (PON1-AREase) and homocysteine thiolactonase activity (PON1-HTLase) which respectively prevent LDL oxidation and detoxify homocysteine thiolactone (HTL). Platelet-activating factor-acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) is an antioxidant enzyme preventing LDL oxidation by hydrolysis of oxidized phospholipids. Both of these enzymes exhibit a proatherogenic role. ADMA is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis causing endothelial dysfunction. The aim was to compare non-obese PCOS patients with a BMI matched control group using the following characteristics: serum PON1-HTLase, ADMA, PAF-AH, and lipid and hormonal parameters. 77 women with PCOS and 25 healthy subject were recruited for this study, The controls were non-obese BMI and age matched with the patients. There were no significant differences with respect to age, BMI, FSH, free testosterone, DHEA, androstenadion, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, VLDL, fasting glucose/insulin ratio and HOMA-IR among the groups (p > 0.05). However, total testosterone and fasting glucose levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group (p < 0.05). On the other hand, PON1-HTLase levels (39.6 ± 5.77 vs. 33.8 ± 8.2, p = 0.02) were significantly lower in the PCOS group while ADMA levels (1.14 ± 0.6 vs. 3.37 ± 6.4, p = 0.004) were significantly higher in the PCOS group. However, there was no significant difference in PAF-AH activity among the groups. Decreased PON1-HTLase and increased ADMA levels might be a relevant marker for the development of future atherosclerotic heart disease (AHD) in non-obese PCOS patients. Further studies are needed to confirm our results.

Early endothelial damage detected by circulating particles in baboons fed a diet high in simple carbohydrates in conjunction with saturated or unsaturated fat.

PubMed

Shi, Qiang; Hodara, Vida; Meng, Qinghe; Voruganti, V Saroja; Rice, Karen; Michalek, Joel E; Comuzzie, Anthony G; VandeBerg, John L

2014-01-01

Studies have shown that high-fat diets cause blood vessel damage, however, assessing pathological effects accurately and efficiently is difficult. In this study, we measured particle levels of static endothelium (CD31+ and CD105+) and activated endothelium (CD62E+, CD54+ and CD106+) in plasma. We determined individual responses to two dietary regimens in two groups of baboons. One group (n = 10), was fed a diet high in simple carbohydrates and saturated fats (the HSF diet) and the other (n = 8) received a diet high in simple carbohydrates and unsaturated fats (the HUF diet). Plasma samples were collected at 0, 3, and 7 weeks. The percentages of CD31+ and CD62E+ particles were elevated at 3 weeks in animals fed either diet, but these elevations were statistically significant only in animals fed the HUF diet. Surprisingly, both percentages and counts of CD31+ particles were significantly lower at week 7 compared to week 0 and 3 in the HSF group. The median absolute counts of CD105+ particles were progressively elevated over time in the HSF group with a significant increase from week 0 to 7; the pattern was somewhat different for the HUF group with significant increase from week 3 to 7. The counts of CD54+ particles exhibited wide variation in both groups during the dietary challenge, while the median counts of CD106+ particles were significantly lower at week 3 than at week 0 and week 7. Endothelial particles exhibited time-dependent changes, suggesting they were behaving as quantifiable surrogates for the early detection of vascular damage caused by dietary factors.

Assessment of Eccentric Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress Using Oxidation-Reduction Potential Markers

PubMed Central

Stagos, Dimitrios; Goutzourelas, Nikolaos; Ntontou, Amalia-Maria; Kafantaris, Ioannis; Deli, Chariklia K.; Poulios, Athanasios; Jamurtas, Athanasios Z.; Bar-Or, David; Kouretas, Dimitrios

2015-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the use of static (sORP) and capacity ORP (cORP) oxidation-reduction potential markers as measured by the RedoxSYS Diagnostic System in plasma, for assessing eccentric exercise-induced oxidative stress. Nineteen volunteers performed eccentric exercise with the knee extensors. Blood was collected before, immediately after exercise, and 24, 48, and 72 h after exercise. Moreover, common redox biomarkers were measured, which were protein carbonyls, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, total antioxidant capacity in plasma, and catalase activity and glutathione levels in erythrocytes. When the participants were examined as one group, there were not significant differences in any marker after exercise. However, in 11 participants there was a high increase in cORP after exercise, while in 8 participants there was a high decrease. Thus, the participants were divided in low cORP group exhibiting significant decrease in cORP after exercise and in high cORP group exhibiting significant increase. Moreover, only in the low cORP group there was a significant increase in lipid peroxidation after exercise suggesting induction of oxidative stress. The results suggested that high decreases in cORP values after exercise may indicate induction of oxidative stress by eccentric exercise, while high increases in cORP values after exercise may indicate no existence of oxidative stress. PMID:25874019

Effects of 6-month eicosapentaenoic acid treatment on postprandial hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, insulin secretion ability, and concomitant endothelial dysfunction among newly-diagnosed impaired glucose metabolism patients with coronary artery disease. An open label, single blinded, prospective randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Sawada, Takahiro; Tsubata, Hideo; Hashimoto, Naoko; Takabe, Michinori; Miyata, Taishi; Aoki, Kosuke; Yamashita, Soichiro; Oishi, Shogo; Osue, Tsuyoshi; Yokoi, Kiminobu; Tsukishiro, Yasue; Onishi, Tetsuari; Shimane, Akira; Taniguchi, Yasuyo; Yasaka, Yoshinori; Ohara, Takeshi; Kawai, Hiroya; Yokoyama, Mitsuhiro

2016-08-26

Recent experimental studies have revealed that n-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) regulate postprandial insulin secretion, and correct postprandial glucose and lipid abnormalities. However, the effects of 6-month EPA treatment on postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, insulin secretion, and concomitant endothelial dysfunction remain unknown in patients with impaired glucose metabolism (IGM) and coronary artery disease (CAD). We randomized 107 newly diagnosed IGM patients with CAD to receive either 1800 mg/day of EPA (EPA group, n = 53) or no EPA (n = 54). Cookie meal testing (carbohydrates: 75 g, fat: 28.5 g) and endothelial function testing using fasting-state flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) were performed before and after 6 months of treatment. The primary outcome of this study was changes in postprandial glycemic and triglyceridemic control and secondary outcomes were improvement of insulin secretion and endothelial dysfunction. After 6 months, the EPA group exhibited significant improvements in EPA/arachidonic acid, fasting triglyceride (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). The EPA group also exhibited significant decreases in the incremental TG peak, area under the curve (AUC) for postprandial TG, incremental glucose peak, AUC for postprandial glucose, and improvements in glycometabolism categorization. No significant changes were observed for hemoglobin A1c and fasting plasma glucose levels. The EPA group exhibited a significant increase in AUC-immune reactive insulin/AUC-plasma glucose ratio (which indicates postprandial insulin secretory ability) and significant improvements in FMD. Multiple regression analysis revealed that decreases in the TG/HDL-C ratio and incremental TG peak were independent predictors of FMD improvement in the EPA group. EPA corrected postprandial hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia and insulin secretion ability. This amelioration of several metabolic abnormalities was accompanied by recovery of concomitant endothelial dysfunction in newly diagnosed IGM patients with CAD. Clinical Trial Registration UMIN Registry number: UMIN000011265 ( https://www.upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr.cgi?function=brows&action=brows&type=summary&recptno=R000013200&language=E ).

A systematic and comprehensive approach to teaching and evaluating interpersonal skills.

PubMed

Grayson, M; Nugent, C; Oken, S L

1977-11-01

This study addressed one problem with current methods for teaching and evaluating interpersonal skills: the failure to include a wide range of behaviors reported in the literature as contributing to patient dissatisfaction and noncompliance. To address this concern, the authors developed a comprehensive interpersonal skills training program and a pretest-posttest evaluation. The tests were administered to two student groups one of which received the interpersonal skills instruction. The student group exposed to the training exhibited a significant positive change from pretest to posttest. Additionally the change for this group was significantly greater than the change for the group not exposed to interpersonal skills instruction.

Comparative study on stress distribution around internal tapered connection implants according to fit of cement- and screw-retained prostheses.

PubMed

Lee, Mi-Young; Heo, Seong-Joo; Park, Eun-Jin; Park, Ji-Man

2013-08-01

The aim of this study was to compare the passivity of implant superstructures by assessing the strain development around the internal tapered connection implants with strain gauges. A polyurethane resin block in which two implants were embedded served as a measurement model. Two groups of implant restorations utilized cement-retained design and internal surface of the first group was adjusted until premature contact between the restoration and the abutment completely disappeared. In the second group, only nodules detectable to the naked eye were removed. The third group employed screw-retained design and specimens were generated by computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing system (n=10). Four strain gauges were fixed on the measurement model mesially and distally to the implants. The strains developed in each strain gauge were recorded during fixation of specimens. To compare the difference among groups, repeated measures 2-factor analysis was performed at a level of significance of α=.05. The absolute strain values were measured to analyze the magnitude of strain. The mean absolute strain value ranged from 29.53 to 412.94 µm/m at the different strain gauge locations. According to the result of overall comparison, the cement-retained prosthesis groups exhibited significant difference. No significant difference was detected between milled screw-retained prostheses group and cement-retained prosthesis groups. Within the limitations of the study, it was concluded that the cement-retained designs do not always exhibit lower levels of stress than screw-retained designs. The internal adjustment of a cement-retained implant restoration is essential to achieve passive fit.

Change in body mass index and insulin resistance after 1-year treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists in girls with central precocious puberty.

PubMed

Park, Jina; Kim, Jae Hyun

2017-03-01

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) is used as a therapeutic agent for central precocious puberty (CPP); however, increased obesity may subsequently occur. This study compared body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance during the first year of GnRHa treatment for CPP. Patient group included 83 girls (aged 7.0-8.9 years) with developed breasts and a peak luteinizing hormone level of ≥5 IU/L after GnRH stimulation. Control group included 48 prepubertal girls. BMI and insulin resistance-related indices (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR] and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index [QUICKI]) were used to compare the groups before treatment, and among the patient group before and after GnRHa treatment. No statistical difference in BMI z -score was detected between the 2 groups before treatment. Fasting insulin and HOMA-IR were increased in the patient group; fasting glucose-to-insulin ratio and QUICKI were increased in the control group (all P <0.001). In normal-weight subjects in the patient group, BMI z -score was significantly increased during GnRHa treatment (-0.1±0.7 vs. 0.1±0.8, P <0.001), whereas HOMA-IR and QUICKI exhibited no differences. In overweight subjects in the patient group; BMI z -score and HOMA-IR were not significantly different, whereas QUICKI was significantly decreased during GnRHa treatment (0.35±0.03 vs. 0.33±0.02, P =0.044). Girls with CPP exhibited increased insulin resistance compared to the control group. During GnRHa treatment, normal-weight individuals showed increased BMI z -scores without increased insulin resistance; the overweight group demonstrated increased insulin resistance without significantly altered BMI z -scores. Long-term follow-up of BMI and insulin resistance changes in patients with CPP is required.

Pattern analysis of patients with temporomandibular disorders resulting from unilateral mastication due to chronic periodontitis

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Purpose The purpose of the present study was to perform a pattern analysis in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) resulting from unilateral mastication due to chronic periodontitis. Methods Thirty participants with signs or symptoms of TMD who engaged in unilateral mastication due to periodontitis-related discomfort (test group) were selected. Another 30 subjects exhibiting signs or symptoms of TMD resulting from unilateral mastication not due to chronic periodontitis (control group) were also recruited. An interview-based questionnaire was administered, and an examination of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with determination of periodontal status was performed. Results The duration of unilateral mastication was significantly longer in the control group than in the test group. There was a significant negative correlation between the duration of unilateral mastication and the Community Periodontal Index score. Using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) axis I algorithms, all the subjects were assigned to 3 main groups. The test group exhibited significantly a higher diagnostic distribution of group III (arthralgia, osteoarthritis, or osteoarthrosis), and in both the test and control groups, the number of diagnoses was larger for the non-chewing side. The control group showed a significantly higher diagnostic distribution of group I (myofacial pain), and in both the test and control groups, the number of diagnoses was larger for the chewing side. Conclusions The results of the present study indicate that unilateral mastication due to chronic periodontitis could induce not only pain but also structural TMJ changes if adequate treatment is not administered and supported within a short time from the onset of the condition. Therefore, immediate treatment of chronic periodontitis is recommended to prevent not only the primary progress of periodontal disease, but also secondary TMJ-related problems. Furthermore, subjects who have suffered chronic long-term periodontitis without treatment should be urged to undergo a TMJ examination. PMID:28861285

Behavior of nickel-titanium instruments manufactured with different thermal treatments.

PubMed

Pereira, Érika Sales Joviano; Viana, Ana Cecília Diniz; Buono, Vicente Tadeu Lopes; Peters, Ove A; Bahia, Maria Guiomar de Azevedo

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate if nickel-titanium instruments with similar designs manufactured by different thermal treatments would exhibit significantly different in vitro behavior. Thirty-six instruments each of ProTaper Universal (PTU F1; Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), ProFile Vortex (PV; Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK), Vortex Blue (VB, Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties), and TYPHOON Infinite Flex NiTi (TYP; Clinician's Choice Dental Products, New Milford, CT) (all size 25/.06) were evaluated. Bending resistance, torsion at failure, and dynamic torsional tests were performed with the instruments (n = 12). Analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were applied. Flexibility was significantly higher for TYP compared with the other 3 groups (P < .0001). With respect to the maximum torque at failure, PV group showed the highest resistance to twisting (torsional strength) among the analyzed instruments followed by VB, TYP, and PTU. The TYP group exhibited greater angular deflection at failure compared with the other groups (P < .0001). The mean dynamic torque scores during simulated canal preparation were highest for TYP (3.01 ± 0.71 Ncm) and lowest for PV (1.62 ± 0.79 Ncm). However, no significant differences were observed comparing groups PTU with TYP and VB and VB with PV (P > .05). The highest mean forces were recorded with PTU (7.02 ± 2.36 N) and the lowest with TYP (1.22 ± 0.40 N). TYP instruments were significantly more flexible than the other instruments tested. The PV group had the highest torsional strength and TYP, despite being the most flexible, showed similar torsional moments to the other instruments, whereas its angular deflection was the highest among the groups. Copyright © 2015 American Association of Endodontists. All rights reserved.

Bending moments of zirconia and titanium implant abutments supporting all-ceramic crowns after aging.

PubMed

Mühlemann, Sven; Truninger, Thomas C; Stawarczyk, Bogna; Hämmerle, Christoph H F; Sailer, Irena

2014-01-01

To test the fracture load and fracture patterns of zirconia abutments restored with all-ceramic crowns after fatigue loading, exhibiting internal and external implant-abutment connections as compared to restored and internally fixed titanium abutments. A master abutment was used for the customization of 5 groups of zirconia abutments to a similar shape (test). The groups differed according to their implant-abutment connections: one-piece internal connection (BL; Straumann Bonelevel), two-piece internal connection (RS; Nobel Biocare ReplaceSelect), external connection (B; Branemark MkIII), two-piece internal connection (SP, Straumann StandardPlus) and one-piece internal connection (A; Astra Tech AB OsseoSpeed). Titanium abutments with internal implant-abutment connection (T; Straumann Bonelevel) served as control group. In each group, 12 abutments were fabricated, mounted to the respective implants and restored with glass-ceramic crowns. All samples were embedded in acrylic holders (ISO-Norm 14801). After aging by means of thermocycling in a chewing simulator, static load was applied until failure (ISO-Norm 14801). Fracture load was analyzed by calculating the bending moments. Values of all groups were compared with one-way ANOVA followed by Scheffé post hoc test (P-value<0.05). Failure mode was analyzed descriptively. The mean bending moments were 464.9 ± 106.6 N cm (BL), 581.8 ± 172.8 N cm (RS), 556.7 ± 128.4 N cm (B), 605.4 ± 54.7 N cm (SP), 216.4 ± 90.0 N cm (A) and 1042.0 ± 86.8 N cm (T). No difference of mean bending moments was found between groups BL, RS, B and SP. Test group A exhibited significantly lower mean bending moment than the other test groups. Control group T had significantly higher bending moments than all test groups. Failure due to fracture of the abutment and/or crown occurred in the test groups. In groups BL and A, fractures were located in the internal part of the connection, whereas in groups RS and SP, a partial deformation of the implant components occurred and cracks and fractures of the zirconia abutment were detected. The differently connected zirconia abutments exhibited similar bending moments with the exception of one group. Hence, the type of connection only had a minor effect on the stability of restored zirconia abutments. In general, restored titanium abutments exhibited the highest bending moments. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Nutritional deficiency and arsenical manifestations: a perspective study in an arsenic-endemic region of West Bengal, India.

PubMed

Deb, Debasree; Biswas, Anirban; Ghose, Aloke; Das, Arabinda; Majumdar, Kunal K; Guha Mazumder, Debendra N

2013-09-01

To assess whether nutritional deficiency increases susceptibility to arsenic-related health effects. Assessment of nutrition was based on a 24 h recall method of all dietary constituents. Epidemiological cross-sectional study was conducted in an arsenic endemic area of West Bengal with groundwater arsenic contamination. The study was composed of two groups – Group 1 (cases, n 108) exhibiting skin lesions and Group 2 (exposed controls, n 100) not exhibiting skin lesions – age- and sex-matched and having similar arsenic exposure through drinking water and arsenic levels in urine and hair. Both groups belonged to low socio-economic strata (Group 1 significantly poorer, P<0·01) and had low BMI (prevalence of BMI<18·5 kg/m2: in 38% in Group 1 and 27% in Group 2). Energy intake was below the Recommended Daily Allowance (set by the Indian Council of Medical Research) in males and females in both groups. Increased risk of arsenical skin lesions was found for those in the lowest quintile of protein intake (v. highest quintile: OR=4·60, 95% CI 1·36, 15·50 in males; OR=5·62, 95% CI 1·19, 34·57 in females). Significantly lower intakes of energy, protein, thiamin, niacin, Mg, Zn and choline were observed in both males and females of Group 1 compared with Group 2. Significantly lower intakes of carbohydrate, riboflavin, niacin and Cu were also observed in female cases with skin lesions compared with non-cases. Deficiencies of Zn, Mg and Cu, in addition to protein, B vitamins and choline, are found to be associated with arsenical skin lesions in West Bengal.

FT-Raman spectroscopic characterization of enamel surfaces irradiated with Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers

PubMed Central

Shahabi, Sima; Fekrazad, Reza; Johari, Maryam; Chiniforoush, Nasim; Rezaei, Yashar

2016-01-01

Background. Despite recent advances in dental caries prevention, caries is common and remains a serious health problem. Laser irradiation is one of the most common methods in preventive measures in recent years. Raman spectroscopy technique is utilized to study the microcrystalline structure of dental enamel. In this study, FT-Raman spectroscopy was used to evaluate chemical changes in enamel structure irradiated with Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers. Methods. We used 15 freshly-extracted, non-carious, human molars that were treated as follows: No treatment was carried out in group A (control group); Group B was irradiated with Er:YAG laser for 10 seconds under air and water spray; and Group C was irradiated with Nd:YAG laser for 10 seconds under air and water spray. After treatment, the samples were analyzed by FT-Raman spectroscopy. Results. The carbonate content evaluation with regard to the integrated area under the curve (1065/960 cm–1) exhibited a significant reduction in its ratio in groups B and C. The organic content (2935/960 cm-1) area exhibited a significant decrease after laser irradiation in group B and C. Conclusion. The results showed that the mineral and organic matrices of enamel structure were affected by laser irradiation; therefore, it might be a suitable method for caries prevention. PMID:28096945

Ingestion of hyaluronans (molecular weights 800 k and 300 k) improves dry skin conditions: a randomized, double blind, controlled study.

PubMed

Kawada, Chinatsu; Yoshida, Takushi; Yoshida, Hideto; Sakamoto, Wakako; Odanaka, Wataru; Sato, Toshihide; Yamasaki, Takeshi; Kanemitsu, Tomoyuki; Masuda, Yasunobu; Urushibata, Osamu

2015-01-01

Hyaluronan (HA) has been increasingly used as a dietary supplement to improve the skin. However, the effect of ingested HA may depend on its molecular weight (MW) because its physiological activities in the body vary with its MW. In this study, we examined the effects of ingested HA with varying MW on the skin. In this randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study, 61 subjects with dry skin received oral HA (120 mg/day), of MWs 800 k and 300 k or placebo, for 6 weeks. The skin moisture contents of the first two groups increased more than those of the placebo group during the ingestion period. In addition, group HA 300 k exhibited significant improvements in skin moisture content 2 weeks after ingestion ended compared with the placebo group. A questionnaire survey about subjective facial aging symptoms showed that the HA treated groups exhibited significantly improved the skin condition compared with the placebo treated group. Furthermore, dermatologists objectively evaluated the clinical symptoms of the facial and whole body skin, showing that no adverse events were related to daily ingestion of HA. This study shows that both of ingesting HAs (MWs 800 k and 300 k) improved the skin condition by increasing the moisture content.

Effects of Serum Zinc Supplementation on Pica Behavior of Persons with Mental Retardation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lofts, Ronald H.; And Others

1990-01-01

Of 806 institutionalized adults with mental retardation, 15.5 percent exhibited pica. Fifty-four percent of the pica group had serum zinc levels below normal range, whereas 7 percent of a control group had serum zinc levels below the normal range. After supplementation with chelated zinc, residents had significant reductions in pica. (Author/JDD)

The Utilization of Exercise to Decrease Depressive Symptoms in Young Adult Women

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balkin, Richard S.; Tietjen-Smith, Tara; Caldwell, Charmaine; Shen, Yu-Pei

2007-01-01

Depression is a prevalent issue for women on college campuses. Undergraduate women participated in (a) an aerobic exercise class, (b) a weight-lifting class, or (c) a control group to determine the effect of exercise on depressive symptoms. Participants in the aerobic exercise group exhibited a significant decrease in depressive symptoms.…

[Alcohol withdrawal syndrome dynamics during treatment with nooclerin (deanoli aceglumas)].

PubMed

Agibalova, T V; Buzik, O Zh; Rychkova, O V; Smyshlyaev, A V; Rumbesht, V V

2018-01-01

To study the efficacy of nooclerin (deanoli aceglumas) in alcohol withdrawal syndrome assessed by clinical and biochemical characteristics. A multicenter, open, randomized, comparative study of nooclerin in the complex treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome included 90 patients. The patients were randomized into nooclerin group (n=55) and control group (n=35). Nooclerin reduced alcohol withdrawal symptoms more significantly throughout the whole study period. There were significant between-group differences on the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol Scale (CIWA-Ar) and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (МFI-20). However, patients exhibited no excessive activity. No adverse side-effects were observed.

Psychological effects of custody disputes on children.

PubMed

Wolman, R; Taylor, K

1991-01-01

This two-group, repeated measures examination of the psychological impact of child custody contests on children reports a subset of data from an ongoing longitudinal study of 95 children and their parents from 43 divorcing families. The authors report clinical observations concerning children's experience of custody litigation, as well as comparisons of baseline and post-test responses of contested and uncontested groups on measures of locus of control, separation anxiety and family concept. Contested children exhibited significantly greater internality of control orientation than the normative sample. Contested children's test scores also suggested significantly less separation anxiety and significantly more positive family concept than the uncontested group at post-test. The implications of these unanticipated findings are discussed.

Pathologic changes of wound tissue in rats with stage III pressure ulcers treated by transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells.

PubMed

Zheng, Xilan; Jiang, Zhixia; Zhou, Aiting; Yu, Limei; Quan, Mingtao; Cheng, Huagang

2015-01-01

This study aims to determine the impact of orthotopic transplantation of human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) on the pathologic changes of wound tissues in a self-prepared rat stage III pressure ulcer model. Ninety-six SD rats were randomly divided into the model group (group M), hAEC transplantation group (group H), traditional treatment group (group T), and the control group (group C), with 24 rats in each group. The wound healing time was observed in 6 rats from each group, and 6 rats of each group were selected for post-modeling on day(s) (D) 1, 3, and 7 for HE staining to compare the pathological changes. The healing time of group H was significantly shorter than the other three groups. Moreover, pathological observations revealed that group H exhibited significant proliferation of fibrous tissues and vessels in the dermal layer, and the appearance time and degree of skin appendages were significantly greater than that observed in the other three groups. Pathological observations showed that hAEC transplantation could significantly speed up the healing of stage III pressure ulcer.

Safety of intracameral injection of gatifloxacin, levofloxacin on corneal endothelial structure and viability.

PubMed

Choi, Jin A; Chung, Sung Kun

2009-10-01

To investigate the safety of intracameral injection of gatifloxacin, levofloxacin in a rabbit model as prophylaxis against endophthalmitis. Twenty-four eyes of New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups: levofloxacin, gatifloxacin, and balanced salt solution (BSS) control groups. After 100 microL of each was injected into the anterior chamber, endothelial toxicity was evaluated by measuring the central corneal thicknesses and the clinical toxicity scores using a slit-lamp at post-procedure days 3 and 7. The percent of dead cells was determined by vital staining with alizarin red and trypan blue at 7 days after injection. Finally, in each group, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed for the evaluation of structural integrity. The toxicity scores were increased at post-procedure days 3 and 7, but the difference among the groups was not statistically significant (P = 0.661, 0.216, respectively). With regard to baseline corneal thickness, only the levofloxacin group exhibited a significant increase from baseline (P = 0.028), whereas the other treatment groups showed no difference from baseline (P = 0.128 in gatifloxacin, 0.161 in BSS group). The mean corneal endothelial damage was 0.81 +/- 0.31% in the levofloxacin group, 0.56 +/- 0.47% in the gatifloxacin group, and 0.53 +/- 0.52% in the BSS group, with no statistically significant difference noted among the groups (P = 0.582). SEM revealed a well-preserved hexagonal endothelial cell mosaic and normal microvilli on the endothelial cell surface in the gatifloxacin and control groups. However, the levofloxacin group showed slightly disintegrated cellular borders. TEM revealed that each group maintained normal intracellular organization, whereas the levofloxacin group exhibited slightly flat cell configuration with irregular folds on the apical cell surface. Intracameral injection of gatifloxacin and levofloxacin was nontoxic in terms of clinical toxicity score, corneal thickness, and viability. However, there were changes on electron microscopy in the levofloxacin group, which may indicate microstructural damage to corneal endothelial cells.

Comparative evaluation of microleakage of a carbomer/fluoroapatite-enhanced glass-ionomer cement on primary teeth restorations.

PubMed

Tolidis, K; Boutsiouki, C; Gerasimou, P

2016-09-01

Carbomer cement represents a novel glass-ionomer which gradually mineralises into fluoroapatite. Purpose of this study was to evaluate microleakage around restorations in deciduous teeth made with composite resin, conventional glass-ionomer cement, resin-modified glass-ionomer cement and carbomer/fluoroapatite-enhanced glass-ionomer cement. A group of 40 primary upper canines, primary upper and lower molars was divided into 4 groups (n=10). Class I cavities were prepared by diamond cylindrical bur at high speed and were restored with a composite resin (Group 1), with a glass- ionomer cement (Group 2), with a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (Group 3) and with a carbomer/fluoroapatite-enhanced glass- ionomer cement (Group 4). Hard tissue's bonding involved, in the case of composite resin a total etch bonding procedure, and in glass ionomers the use of their respective primers. Restorations were finished and polished. A 24-hour water storage was followed by thermocycling (1500 cycles, 5°C - 36°C - 55°C - 36°C with a dwell time of 15 seconds) and dye penetration test with immersion in 5% methylene blue for 24 hours. In order to assess the degree of microleakage longitudinal cuts were produced by means of a microtome at 0.5 mm and at 1 mm from the restoration margin, and photographs were taken with a stereomicroscope at 100X. Microleakage was classified according to the number of surfaces and the depth at which dye penetration was observed. Data were analysed with ANOVA and post-hoc analysis was performed with Bonferonni test (p<0.05). Statistical analysis exhibited no significant statistical difference between Group 2 and Group 3 (p>0.05). Statistical difference was exhibited between Group 3 and Group 4 (p<0.01), with Group 4 exhibiting lower microleakage values. Group 1 exhibited the lowest mean microleakage values and statistical difference in comparison with all groups (p<0.001). Group 4 exhibited the lowest microleakage values among the cements. Superior marginal integrity is achieved in restored primary teeth when composite resin is used. If the clinical case suggests the use of a glass-ionomer cement, carbomer/fluoroapatite-enhanced glass-ionomer cement is prefered in terms of microleakage.

Health Education and Symptom Flare Management Using a Video-Based m-Health System for Caring Women with IC/BPS.

PubMed

Lee, Ming-Huei; Wu, Huei-Ching; Tseng, Chien-Ming; Ko, Tsung-Liang; Weng, Tang-Jun; Chen, Yung-Fu

2018-06-10

To assess effectiveness of the video-based m-health system providing videos dictated by physicians for health education and symptom self-management for patients with IC/BPS. An m-health system was designed to provide videos for weekly health education and symptom flare self-management. O'Leary-Sant index and VAS scale as well as SF-36 health survey were administrated to evaluate the disease severity and quality of life (QoL), respectively. A total of 60 IC/BPS patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either control group (30 patients) or study group (30 patients) in sequence depending on their orders to visit our urological clinic. Patients in both control and study groups received regular treatments, while those in the study group received additional video-based intervention. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare the outcomes between baseline and post-intervention for both groups. The outcomes of video-based intervention were also compared with the text-based intervention conducted in our previous study. After video-based intervention, patients in the study group exhibited significant effect manifested in all disease severity and QoL assessments except the VAS pain scale, while no significance was found in the control group. Moreover, the study group exhibited more significant net improvements than the control group in 7 SF-36 constructs, except the mental health. The limitations include short intervention duration (8 weeks) and different study periods between text-based and video-based interventions. Video-based intervention is effective in improving the QoL of IC/BPS patients and outperforms the text-based intervention even in a short period of intervention. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Chronic stress, leukocyte subpopulations, and humoral response to latent viruses

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

McKinnon, W.; Weisse, C.S.; Reynolds, C.P.

1989-01-01

Psychological stress has been shown to affect immune system status and function, but most studies of this relationship have focused on acute stress and/or laboratory situations. The present study compared total numbers of leukocytes and lymphocyte subpopulations (determined by flow cytometry) and antibody titers to latent and nonlatent viruses among a group of chronically stressed individuals living near the damaged Three Mile Island (TMI) nuclear power plant with those of a demographically comparable control group. Urinary catecholamine and cortisol levels were also examined. Residents of the TMI area exhibited greater numbers of neutrophils, which were positively correlated with epinephrine levels.more » The TMI group also exhibited fewer B lymphocytes, T-suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes, and natural killer cells. Antibody titers to herpes simplex were significantly different across groups as well, whereas titers to nonlatent rubella virus as well as IgG and IgM levels were comparable.« less

Cooperative Adaptive Responses in Gene Regulatory Networks with Many Degrees of Freedom

PubMed Central

Inoue, Masayo; Kaneko, Kunihiko

2013-01-01

Cells generally adapt to environmental changes by first exhibiting an immediate response and then gradually returning to their original state to achieve homeostasis. Although simple network motifs consisting of a few genes have been shown to exhibit such adaptive dynamics, they do not reflect the complexity of real cells, where the expression of a large number of genes activates or represses other genes, permitting adaptive behaviors. Here, we investigated the responses of gene regulatory networks containing many genes that have undergone numerical evolution to achieve high fitness due to the adaptive response of only a single target gene; this single target gene responds to changes in external inputs and later returns to basal levels. Despite setting a single target, most genes showed adaptive responses after evolution. Such adaptive dynamics were not due to common motifs within a few genes; even without such motifs, almost all genes showed adaptation, albeit sometimes partial adaptation, in the sense that expression levels did not always return to original levels. The genes split into two groups: genes in the first group exhibited an initial increase in expression and then returned to basal levels, while genes in the second group exhibited the opposite changes in expression. From this model, genes in the first group received positive input from other genes within the first group, but negative input from genes in the second group, and vice versa. Thus, the adaptation dynamics of genes from both groups were consolidated. This cooperative adaptive behavior was commonly observed if the number of genes involved was larger than the order of ten. These results have implications in the collective responses of gene expression networks in microarray measurements of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the significance to the biological homeostasis of systems with many components. PMID:23592959

Comparison of Internet-based and paper-based questionnaires in Taiwan using multisample invariance approach.

PubMed

Yu, Sen-Chi; Yu, Min-Ning

2007-08-01

This study examines whether the Internet-based questionnaire is psychometrically equivalent to the paper-based questionnaire. A random sample of 2,400 teachers in Taiwan was divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group was invited to complete the electronic form of the Chinese version of Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) placed on the Internet, whereas the control group was invited to complete the paper-based CES-D, which they received by mail. The multisample invariance approach, derived from structural equation modeling (SEM), was applied to analyze the collected data. The analytical results show that the two groups have equivalent factor structures in the CES-D. That is, the items in CES-D function equivalently in the two groups. Then the equality of latent mean test was performed. The latent means of "depressed mood," "positive affect," and "interpersonal problems" in CES-D are not significantly different between these two groups. However, the difference in the "somatic symptoms" latent means between these two groups is statistically significant at alpha = 0.01. But the Cohen's d statistics indicates that such differences in latent means do not apparently lead to a meaningful effect size in practice. Both CES-D questionnaires exhibit equal validity, reliability, and factor structures and exhibit a little difference in latent means. Therefore, the Internet-based questionnaire represents a promising alternative to the paper-based questionnaire.

Potato powders prepared by successive cooking-process depending on resistant starch content affect the intestinal fermentation in rats.

PubMed

Kawakami, Sakura; Han, Kyu-Ho; Araki, Takahiro; Ohba, Kiyoshi; Wakabayashi, Tatsuya; Shimada, Kenichiro; Fukushima, Michihiro

2017-02-01

The effects of resistant starch (RS) in dry potato powders prepared by various processes on intestinal fermentation in rats were assessed. Rats were fed raw potato powder (RP), blanched potato powder (BP), steamed potato powder (SP), or drum-dried potato powder (DP) for 4 weeks. The cecal RS content was significantly higher in the RP group than in the control diet (CN) group and other dry potato powder groups. Cecum pH was significantly lower in the RP group compared to the CN group, and was also significantly lower than that in the SP, BP, and DP groups. Lactic acid bacteria levels in the RP group were significantly higher than those in the CN group, and levels in the SP group also increased relative to the control group. Lactobacillus levels in the RP group were higher than in the CN and other dry potato powder groups. Cecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations in the RP group followed by the SP group exhibited significantly higher levels relative to the control levels. Dry potato powders containing RS produced during the cooking process may represent a useful food material that increases intestinal concentrations of SCFA and enhances the growth of certain lactic acid bacteria.

A clinical investigation of the efficacy of three commercially available dentifrices for controlling established gingivitis and supragingival plaque.

PubMed

Singh, Surrendra; Chaknis, Patricia; DeVizio, William; Petrone, Margaret; Panagakos, Fotinos S; Proskin, Howard M

2010-01-01

To assess the efficacy ofa dentifrice containing 0.3% triclosan/2.0% PVM/MA copolymer/0.243% sodium fluoride for controlling established gingivitis and supragingival plaque relative to that of a dentifrice containing 0.454% stannous fluoride, sodium hexametaphosphate, and zinc lactate, and a dentifrice containing 0.243% sodium fluoride as a negative control. Following a baseline examination for gingivitis and supragingival plaque, qualifying adult male and female subjects from the Piscataway, NJ, USA area were randomized into three dentifrice groups. Subjects were instructed to brush their teeth twice daily (morning and evening) for one minute with their assigned dentifrice and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Examinations for gingivitis and supragingival plaque were repeated after six weeks of product use. One-hundred and seventy-one (171) subjects complied with the protocol and completed the study. Relative to the group using the dentifrice with 0.243% sodium fluoride alone, the 0.3% triclosan/2.0% PVM/MA copolymer/0.243% sodium fluoride group exhibited statistically significant reductions in gingival index and supragingival plaque index scores of 25.3% and 33.0%, respectively, after six weeks of product use. Similarly, relative to the group using the 0.243% sodium fluoride dentifrice, the 0.454% stannous fluoride, sodium hexametaphosphate, and zinc lactate dentifrice group exhibited statistically significant reductions in gingival index and plaque index scores of 8.1% and 14.1% after six weeks of product use. Further, relative to the 0.454% stannous fluoride, sodium hexametaphosphate, and zinc lactate dentifrice group, the 0.3% triclosan/2.0% PVM/MA copolymer/0.243% sodium fluoride dentifrice group exhibited statistically significant reductions in gingival index and plaque index scores of 18.7% and 22%, respectively. The overall results of this double-blind clinical study support the conclusion that a dentifrice containing 0.3% triclosan/2.0% PVM/MA copolymer/0.243% sodium fluoride is efficacious for the control of established gingivitis and supragingival plaque as compared to a regular fluoride dentifrice, and that it provides a greater level of efficacy for the control of gingivitis and supragingival plaque than does a dentifrice containing 0.454% stannous fluoride, sodium hexametaphosphate, and zinc lactate.

Neurofunctional changes in adolescent cannabis users with and without bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Bitter, Samantha M; Adler, Caleb M; Eliassen, James C; Weber, Wade A; Welge, Jeffrey A; Burciaga, Joaquin; Shear, Paula K; Strakowski, Stephen M; DelBello, Melissa P

2014-11-01

To compare regional brain activation among adolescents with bipolar disorder and co-occurring cannabis use disorder. Cross-sectional study. Cincinnati, OH, USA. Adolescents with bipolar disorder (BP, n = 14), adolescents with cannabis use disorder (MJ, n = 13), adolescents with co-occurring cannabis use and bipolar disorders (BPMJ, n = 25) and healthy adolescents (HC, n = 15). Cannabis craving, substance use, Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent (BOLD) signal assessed by the Marijuana Craving Questionnaire (MCQ), Teen-Addiction Severity Index (T-ASI) and a cannabis cue-reactivity task during a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) session, respectively. The BP group exhibited significantly greater brain activation than the BPMJ group in the right amygdala (F = 4.14, P = 0.046), left nucleus accumbens (F = 3.8, P = 0.02), left thalamus (F = 3.8, P < 0.05) and the right thalamus (F = 6.2, P = 0.02). The BP group exhibited significantly greater activation than the HC group in the left nucleus accumbens (F = 11.5, P = 0.0001), right thalamus (F = 4.9, P = 0.03) and the left striatum (F = 3.6, P = 0.04). Left amygdala activation of the BPMJ group trended towards being significantly negatively correlated with the number of joints smoked (R = -0.4, P = 0.06). Bipolar adolescents with comorbid cannabis use do not exhibit the same over-activation of the regions involved in emotional processing as seen in adolescents with bipolar disorder alone. The absence of these findings in patients with comorbid bipolar and cannabis use disorders suggests that these individuals may have a unique endophenotype of bipolar disorder or that cannabis use may alter brain activation uniquely in bipolar disorder patients who use cannabis. © 2014 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Atlantooccipital overlapping and its effect on outcomes after ventral fixation in dogs with atlantoaxial instability

PubMed Central

TAKAHASHI, Fumitaka; HAKOZAKI, Takaharu; KOUNO, Shigenori; SUZUKI, Shuji; SATO, Asaka; KANNO, Nobuo; HARADA, Yasuji; YAMAGUCHI, Shinya; HARA, Yasushi

2018-01-01

We compared clinical outcomes after ventral fixation in dogs with atlantoaxial instability (AAI) on the basis of the presence or absence of atlantooccipital overlapping (AOO). Of 41 dogs diagnosed with AAI and treated ventral fixation, 12 exhibited AOO (AOO group), whereas 29 did not (non-AOO group). The AOO group had significantly higher neurological scores before (P=0.024) and 1 month after (P=0.033) surgery compared with the non-AOO group; however, no significant differences were observed between the groups 2 months after surgery. The presence of complicating AOO affected the clinical signs for dogs with AAI, but did not directly affect the outcome of surgical stabilization of AAI. PMID:29398673

Comparison of sensory modes of biofeedback in relaxation training of frontalis muscle.

PubMed

Chen, W

1981-12-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of various sensory modes of EMG biofeedback to relaxation training of the frontalis muscle. 19 male and 29 female subjects were randomly selected from a pool of college volunteers. They were then randomly assigned 12 each to audiofeedback, visual feedback, audiovisual feedback, and no feedback groups. There were 11 20-min. sessions per subject. Subjects in the biofeedback groups were trained to reduce muscle tension voluntarily by utilizing Cyborg J33 EMG portable trainers. The subjects in the three feedback groups exhibited significantly lower muscle tension than did the subjects in the no-feedback control group. There were no significant differences in relaxation among the three feedback groups.

The Impact of CLIL on L2 Vocabulary Development and Content Knowledge

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xanthou, Maria

2011-01-01

This paper examines whether students involved in CLIL are able to learn content through the medium of L2 and simultaneously exhibit significant gains in L2 vocabulary knowledge. Two experiments were set up in two public primary schools. Two groups of 6th grade students participated in each experiment. The first group was taught three 80-minute…

Intra-individual variability across cognitive task in drug-naïve pediatric patients with obsessive compulsive disorder.

PubMed

Okazaki, Kosuke; Yamamuro, Kazuhiko; Iida, Junzo; Ota, Toyosaku; Nakanishi, Yoko; Matsuura, Hiroki; Uratani, Mitsuhiro; Sawada, Satomi; Azechi, Takahiro; Kishimoto, Naoko; Kishimoto, Toshifumi

2018-06-01

Attention deficit is commonly observed in several psychiatric conditions. In particular, patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder exhibit not only attention deficit, but also intra-individual variability in response times (IIV-RT) during the performance of cognitive tasks related to attention span and sustained attention. Although obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is commonly observed across childhood, little is known about abnormalities in IIV-RT during the auditory odd-ball task, and how these changes relate to event-related potentials (ERPs) components. In the present study, we compared the ERPs of 15 adolescent and pediatric patients with OCD with 15 healthy age, sex, and IQ-matched controls. We found that tau of IIV-TR was not significantly different between the OCD group and controls, whereas the OCD group exhibited lower mu and sigma compared to controls. Furthermore, we revealed that P300 amplitude was significantly attenuated in the OCD group at Fz, C3, and C4, compared with controls. The present study thereby provided the first evidence that individuals with pediatric or adolescent OCD exhibit lower variability in reaction time in IIV-RT during an auditory odd-ball task than controls. These results suggest that there are no impairments in attention span and sustained attention in pediatric and adolescent patients with OCD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Salivary osteocalcin levels are decreased in smoker chronic periodontitis patients.

PubMed

Ozçaka, O; Nalbantsoy, A; Buduneli, N

2011-03-01

 This study was planned to investigate whether smoker chronic periodontitis patients exhibit different salivary concentrations of C-telopeptide pyridinoline cross-links of type I collagen (ICTP) and osteocalcin (OC) compared to the non-smoker counterparts. Whole saliva samples, full-mouth clinical periodontal recordings were obtained from 33 otherwise healthy chronic periodontitis patients and 36 systemically, periodontally healthy control subjects. Chronic periodontitis patients and healthy control subjects were divided into smoker and non-smoker groups according to their self reports. Salivary ICTP, OC levels were determined by Enzyme-linked Immunoassays. Healthy control groups exhibited significantly lower values in all clinical periodontal measurements (P < 0.001). Smoker periodontitis patients revealed similar clinical periodontal index values with non-smoker counterparts (P > 0.05). Chronic periodontitis patients exhibited significantly higher salivary OC levels than healthy controls (P < 0.05). Smoker periodontitis patients revealed lower salivary OC levels than non-smoker counterparts (P < 0.001). Log ICTP levels in non-smoker chronic periodontitis patients were higher than non-smoker controls (P < 0.05). Smoker healthy control group revealed higher log ICTP levels than non-smoker counterparts (P < 0.001). Within the limits of this study, it may be suggested that suppression of salivary osteocalcin level by smoking may at least partly explain the deleterious effects of smoking on periodontal status. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Management of combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis with lateral closing wedge osteotomy with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment: Does the degree of anteriorization affect the functional outcome and posterior tibial slope?

PubMed

Sadek, Ahmed F; Osman, Mohammed K; Laklok, Mohamed A

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of degree of anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment after lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy in patients having combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis. A retrospective study was conducted on 64 patients who were operated on for combined knee medial compartmental and patellofemoral osteoarthritis, by lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment. They were divided into two groups; Group I comprising 32 patients (34 knees, mean age of 51.4±7years) whose degree of anterior translation was <1cm and Group II comprising 32 patients (33 knees, mean age of 52.2±8.3years) whose degree of anterior translation was >1.5cm. The final assessment was performed via: visual analog scale, postoperative Knee Society clinical rating system function score, active range of motion, time to union, degree of correction of mechanical axis, posterior tibial slope, and Insall-Salvati ratio. Group II patients exhibited statistically superior mean postoperative score and better return to their work than Group I (P=0.013, 0.076, respectively). Both groups showed statistically significant differences between the preoperative and postoperative evaluation parameters (P<0.001). The posterior tibial slope was decreased in both groups but with no significant difference (P=0.527). Lateral closing wedge high tibial osteotomy combined with anterior translation of the distal tibial fragment more than 1.5cm achieved significantly better postoperative functional knee score. Both groups exhibited comparatively decreased posterior tibial slope. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effectiveness of different music-playing devices for reducing preoperative anxiety: a clinical control study.

PubMed

Lee, Kwo-Chen; Chao, Yuh-Huey; Yiin, Jia-Jean; Chiang, Pei-Yi; Chao, Yann-Fen

2011-10-01

While waiting for surgery, patients often exhibit fear and anxiety. Music is thought to be an alternative to medication to relieve anxiety. However, due to concerns about infection control, devices other than headphones may be considered for this purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the anxiety-relieving effect of broadcast versus headphone music playing for patients awaiting surgery. A randomized controlled clinical study. The waiting area of an operating theater of a metropolitan teach hospital in Taiwan. Alert adult with age between 20 and 65 years old waiting for surgery without premedications. A total of 167 patients were randomly assigned to the headphone, broadcast and control groups. Both the headphone and the broadcast groups were provided with the same instrumental music, while the control group did not listen to any music. The tools for measuring anxiety were visual analogue scale (VAS) ranging from "not anxious at all" to "extremely anxious" and heart rate variability (HRV). The VAS score exhibited a significant decrease for both the headphone and broadcast groups. The low frequency and low-to-high frequency LF/HF ratio of the broadcast and headphone groups were significantly lower than those of the control group. None of the heart rate variables showed significant differences between the broadcast group and the headphone group. Both headphone and broadcast music are effective for reducing the preoperative patient's anxiety in the waiting room. In order to take infection control into account, broadcast speakers can substitute for headphones for playing music to lower the anxiety level of patients waiting for surgery. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of an online problem-based learning program on sexual health care competencies among oncology nurses: a pilot study.

PubMed

Kim, Jung-Hee; Shin, Jwa-Seop

2014-09-01

The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of an online problem-based learning (e-PBL) program that offers multimedia scenarios to develop sexual health care competencies. A pretest–posttest control group design was used with two randomized groups in one Korean tertiary hospital. The sample included 32 RNs who cared for oncology patients. The intervention group completed an e-PBL cycle consisting of eight tutorials. Nurses in the intervention group scored significantly higher on knowledge than did those in the control group. The intervention group exhibited no significant differences in attitude and practices following the intervention. The results show the potential of e-PBL to enhance traditional PBL by offering multimedia scenarios in an interactive and flexible learning environment.

Development of selective attention in preschool-age children from lower socioeconomic status backgrounds.

PubMed

Hampton Wray, Amanda; Stevens, Courtney; Pakulak, Eric; Isbell, Elif; Bell, Theodore; Neville, Helen

2017-08-01

Although differences in selective attention skills have been identified in children from lower compared to higher socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, little is known about these differences in early childhood, a time of rapid attention development. The current study evaluated the development of neural systems for selective attention in children from lower SES backgrounds. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were acquired from 33 children from lower SES and 14 children from higher SES backgrounds during a dichotic listening task. The lower SES group was followed longitudinally for one year. At age four, the higher SES group exhibited a significant attention effect (larger ERP response to attended compared to unattended condition), an effect not observed in the lower SES group. At age five, the lower SES group exhibited a significant attention effect comparable in overall magnitude to that observed in the 4-year-old higher SES group, but with poorer distractor suppression (larger response to the unattended condition). Together, these findings suggest both a maturational delay and divergent developmental pattern in neural mechanisms for selective attention in young children from lower compared to higher SES backgrounds. Furthermore, these findings highlight the importance of studying neurodevelopment within narrow age ranges and in children from diverse backgrounds. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Unique sex- and age-dependent effects in protective pathways in acute kidney injury.

PubMed

Boddu, Ravindra; Fan, Chunlan; Rangarajan, Sunil; Sunil, Bhuvana; Bolisetty, Subhashini; Curtis, Lisa M

2017-09-01

Sex and age influence susceptibility to acute kidney injury (AKI), with young females exhibiting lowest incidence. In these studies, we investigated mechanisms which may underlie the sex/age-based dissimilarities. Cisplatin (Cp)-induced AKI resulted in morphological evidence of injury in all groups. A minimal rise in plasma creatinine (PCr) was seen in Young Females, whereas in Aged Females, PCr rose precipitously. Relative to Young Males, Aged Males showed significantly, but temporally, comparably elevated PCr. Notably, Aged Females showed significantly greater mortality, whereas Young Females exhibited none. Tissue KIM-1 and plasma NGAL were significantly lower in Young Females than all others. IGFBP7 levels were modestly increased in both Young groups. IGFBP7 levels in Aged Females were significantly elevated at baseline relative to Aged Males, and increased linearly through day 3 , when these levels were comparable in both Aged groups. Plasma cytokine levels similarly showed a pattern of protective effects preferentially in Young Females. Expression of the drug transporter MATE2 did not explain the sex/age distinctions. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) levels (~28-kDa species) showed elevation at day 1 in all groups with highest levels seen in Young Males. Exclusively in Young Females, these levels returned to baseline on day 3 , suggestive of a more efficient recovery. In aggregate, we demonstrate, for the first time, a distinctive pattern of response to AKI in Young Females relative to males which appears to be significantly altered in aging. These distinctions may offer novel targets to exploit therapeutically in both females and males in the treatment of AKI.

Working memory contributes to elevated motor activity in adults with ADHD: an examination of the role of central executive and storage/rehearsal processes.

PubMed

Hudec, Kristen L; Alderson, R Matt; Kasper, Lisa J; Patros, Connor H G

2014-05-01

The relationship between working memory (WM) and objectively measured motor activity was examined in adults with ADHD and healthy controls (HCs). Thirty-five adults (ADHD = 20, HC = 15) were grouped using self-report and collateral-report measures in addition to a semistructured clinical interview. All participants completed control conditions with minimal WM demands, and separate phonological (PH) and visuospatial (VS) WM tasks with recall demands ranging from four to seven stimuli. The ADHD group exhibited significantly more motor activity relative to the HC group, and both groups exhibited greater activity during PH and VS WM tasks, relative to control conditions. Finally, the central executive (CE) and PH storage/rehearsal subsystems were associated with large-magnitude between-group differences in activity. Findings suggest that increased demands on WM, particularly the CE and PH storage/rehearsal, contribute to ADHD-related hyperactivity, though a portion of excessive motor activity in adults with ADHD may occur independently of WM demands.

Genotoxic potentials of lifestyles assessed by urinary mutagenicity.

PubMed

Mure, K; Morimoto, K

1994-09-01

The relationships between lifestyles and urinary mutagenicity were investigated by using blue rayon extraction from 33 healthy male workers' urine. Subjects were classified into three groups, as "good", "moderate", and "poor" according to their responses on a questionnaire regarding eight health practices (cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, eating breakfast, hours of sleep, hours of work, physical exercise, caring about nutritional balance, mental stress). The better lifestyle groups exhibited the lower mutagenicity. Subjects in a "good" group showed significantly lower urinary mutagenicity than those both in a "moderate" (p < 0.05) and a "poor" (p < 0.05) groups at fraction number 1 to 3 that were given after ingesting fried beef. These tendencies also found at fraction number 8 to 9 that were given after smoking, although not significant. The lifestyles were significantly associated with the urinary mutagenicity, and the results suggested that not only particular lifestyle factor but also some combinations with smoking significantly enhanced with the urinary mutagenicity.

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

Enyedi, A.J.; Pell, E.J.

Ozone (O{sub 3}) induced a reduction in quantity of rubisco in potato foliage. In vitro, O{sub 3} predisposed purified rubisco to elevated proteolysis; reagents which protected sulfhydryl (SH) groups suppressed this effect. We hypothesized that rubisco SH content correlated directly with foliar O{sub 3} sensitivity. Rubisco was purified from Solanum tuberosum L. O{sub 3}-tolerant cv. Superior (SP) and Norgold Russet (NR), and O{sub 3}-susceptible cv. Norland (NL) and Cherokee (CK). When native rubisco was titrated with DTNB, protein of NL contained 1.33 and 1.26 times more SH groups than SP and NR, respectively. Rubisco from CK also contained more SHmore » groups than SP and NR, but the difference was not significant. Rubisco of SP, NR and CK denatured by SDS exhibited identical number of SH groups, however, NL exhibited 1.15 times more SH groups. The greater number of SH groups in rubisco from NL versus SP and NR may explain its relative sensitivity to ozone. The role of SH groups in ozone-sensitivity of CK will require further study.« less

Triple grouping and period-three oscillations in minority-game dynamics.

PubMed

Dong, Jia-Qi; Huang, Zi-Gang; Huang, Liang; Lai, Ying-Cheng

2014-12-01

Dynamical systems based on the minority game (MG) have been a paradigm for gaining significant insights into a variety of social and biological behaviors. Recently, a grouping phenomenon has been unveiled in MG systems of multiple resources (strategies) in which the strategies spontaneously break into an even number of groups, each exhibiting an identical oscillation pattern in the attendance of game players. Here we report our finding of spontaneous breakup of resources into three groups, each exhibiting period-three oscillations. An analysis is developed to understand the emergence of the striking phenomenon of triple grouping and period-three oscillations. In the presence of random disturbances, the triple-group/period-three state becomes transient, and we obtain explicit formula for the average transient lifetime using two methods of approximation. Our finding indicates that, period-three oscillation, regarded as one of the most fundamental behaviors in smooth nonlinear dynamical systems, can also occur in much more complex, evolutionary-game dynamical systems. Our result also provides a plausible insight for the occurrence of triple grouping observed, for example, in the U.S. housing market.

Sambar, an Indian Dish Prevents the Development of Dimethyl Hydrazine–Induced Colon Cancer: A Preclinical Study

PubMed Central

Prasad, Vutturu Ganga; Reddy, Neetinkumar; Francis, Albi; Nayak, Pawan G.; Kishore, Anoop; Nandakumar, Krishnadas; Rao, Mallikarjuna C.; Shenoy, Rekha

2016-01-01

Background: Colon cancer (CC) is the third commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of mortality in the US when compared to India where prevalence is less. Possible reason could be the vegetarian diet comprising spices used in curry powders. Researchers believe that 70% of the cases are associated with diet. Spices have inherited a rich tradition for their flavor and medicinal properties. Researchers have been oriented towards spices present in food items for their antitumorigenic properties. Objective: We investigated the effects of sambar as a preventive measure for 1,2-dimethyl hydrazine (DMH)-induced CC in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: The animals were divided into three groups (n = 6) namely control, DMH, and sambar. At the end of the experimental period, the animals were killed using anesthesia and the colons and livers were examined. Results: All the treatment groups exhibited a significant change in the number of aberrant crypt foci (ACF). Sambar group showed a significant change in the colonic GSH when compared to both normal and DMH groups. A significant reduction in the liver GSH was noted in the sambar group. Only sambar group showed a significant change in the liver catalase levels when compared to DMH. There was a significant reduction in the colonic nitrite in the sambar-treated group; 2.94 ± 0.29 when compared to DMH control at 8.09 ± 1.32. On the contrary, a significant rise in the liver nitrite levels was observed in the sambar-treated rats. Conclusion: Sambar may prevent the risk of CC when consumed in dietary proportions. SUMMARY Consumption of sambar significantly reduced aberrant crypt foci in DMH-induced colon cancer modelSambar treatment prevented DMH-induced oxidative changes in the colonic tissue, indicating its antioxidant roleSambar comprises a variety of spices that exhibited both pro- and antioxidant properties in different tissues, leading to its overall beneficial effect in this model. Abbreviations used: ACF: aberrant crypt foci, CC: colon cancer, DMH: 1,2-dimethyl hydrazine, GSH: glutathione, IL-6: Interleukin-6, TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha. PMID:27761072

Evaluation of marginal and internal fit of ceramic and metallic crown copings using x-ray microtomography (micro-CT) technology.

PubMed

Pimenta, Manuel Antonio; Frasca, Luis Carlos; Lopes, Ricardo; Rivaldo, Elken

2015-08-01

Prosthetic crown fit to the walls of the tooth preparation may vary depending on the material used for crown fabrication. The purpose of this study was to compare the marginal and internal fit of crown copings fabricated from 3 different materials. The selected materials were zirconia (ZirkonZahn system, group Y-TZP), lithium disilicate (IPS e.max Press system, group LSZ), and nickel-chromium alloy (lost-wax casting, group NiCr). Five specimens of each material were seated on standard dies. An x-ray microtomography (micro-CT) device was used to obtain volumetric reconstructions of each specimen. Points for fit measurement were located in Adobe Photoshop, and measurements were obtained in the CTAn SkyScan software environment. Marginal fit was measured at 4 points and internal fit at 9 points in each coping. Mean measurements from the 3 groups were compared by analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the 5% significance level, and between-group differences were assessed with the Tukey range test. The nickel-chromium alloy exhibited the best marginal fit overall, comparable with zirconia and significantly different from lithium disilicate. Lithium disilicate exhibited the lowest mean values for internal fit, similar to zirconia and significantly different from the nickel-chrome alloy. The marginal and internal fit parameters of the 3 tested materials were within clinically acceptable range. Copyright © 2015 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metabolic characteristics and renal dysfunction in 65 patients with tophi prior to gout.

PubMed

Lu, Chuan-Chin; Wu, Shyi-Kuen; Chung, Wei-Sheng; Lin, Liang-Hung; Hung, Ta-Wei; Yeh, Chih-Jung

2017-08-01

Tophi typically occur many years after uncontrolled gout. Therefore, their development before gout remains unusual. Such patients might exhibit some characteristic differences compared with typical tophaceous gout patients. In this study, 65 tophaceous gout patients with tophi as the first sign of gout (tophi-first group) were enrolled. Their clinical characteristics were compared with those of 1421 patients whose tophi occurred after gout (tophi-after group). Compared with the tophi-after group, the tophi-first group had a significantly higher percentage of female patients and patients with elderly onset of disease and a lower percentage of patients with a positive family history; these patients had lower body mass indices, serum urate levels, and estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs). Female sex and negative family history were identified as the principal determinants of tophi development before gout. The decreasing eGFR among the tophi-first group was not due to the group per se but was a result of older age, longer tophi duration, and hyperuricemia. The most common site of initial tophi occurrence in both groups was the toe. In the tophi-first group, the occurrence rates for initial tophi sites were significantly higher at the finger but were lower at the ankle. The tophi-first group exhibited distinct characteristics of age, gender, family history, BMI, serum urate levels, and initial tophi site. This group had fewer comorbidities but similar renal dysfunction compared with the tophi-after group. Thus, patients presenting with tophi should be treated promptly, even if they have no history of gout symptoms.

Loss of capacity to recover from acidosis on repeat exercise in chronic fatigue syndrome: a case-control study.

PubMed

Jones, David E J; Hollingsworth, Kieren G; Jakovljevic, Djordje G; Fattakhova, Gulnar; Pairman, Jessie; Blamire, Andrew M; Trenell, Michael I; Newton, Julia L

2012-02-01

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) patients frequently describe difficulties with repeat exercise. Here, we explore muscle bioenergetic function in response to three bouts of exercise. A total of 18 CFS (CDC 1994) patients and 12 sedentary controls underwent assessment of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), repeat exercise with magnetic resonance spectroscopy and cardio-respiratory fitness test to determine anaerobic threshold. Chronic fatigue syndrome patients undertaking MVC fell into two distinct groups: 8 (45%) showed normal PCr depletion in response to exercise at 35% of MVC (PCr depletion >33%; lower 95% CI for controls); 10 CFS patients had low PCr depletion (generating abnormally low MVC values). The CFS whole group exhibited significantly reduced anaerobic threshold, heart rate, VO(2) , VO(2) peak and peak work compared to controls. Resting muscle pH was similar in controls and both CFS patient groups. However, the CFS group achieving normal PCr depletion values showed increased intramuscular acidosis compared to controls after similar work after each of the three exercise periods with no apparent reduction in acidosis with repeat exercise of the type reported in normal subjects. This CFS group also exhibited significant prolongation (almost 4-fold) of the time taken for pH to recover to baseline. When exercising to comparable levels to normal controls, CFS patients exhibit profound abnormality in bioenergetic function and response to it. Although exercise intervention is the logical treatment for patients showing acidosis, any trial must exclude subjects who do not initiate exercise as they will not benefit. This potentially explains previous mixed results in CFS exercise trials. © 2011 The Authors. European Journal of Clinical Investigation © 2011 Stichting European Society for Clinical Investigation Journal Foundation.

Carcass quality, physico-chemical parameters, muscle fibre traits and myosin heavy chain composition of m. longissimus lumborum from Puławska and Polish Large White pigs.

PubMed

Wojtysiak, Dorota; Połtowicz, Katarzyna

2014-08-01

In 54 Puławska pigs and 60 Polish Large White pigs (PLW), slaughtered at 30 and 100 kg body weight, carcass and meat quality of m. longissimus lumborum were studied. Analysis revealed that in both examined body weight groups, hot carcass weight, carcass yield percentage, meat content, and weight of ham and carcass ham percentage were significantly lower and backfat thickness higher for Puławska pigs compared to PLW pigs, while PLW pigs exhibited significantly longer carcasses, greater loin eye area, and, in the case of lighter pigs, smaller proportion of loin in the carcass. Muscles of Puławska pigs, in the lighter group, had higher IMF content and a* value, while in the heavier group they exhibited higher pH(45), pH(24) and a* values, lower L*, drip loss, WHC, and thermal loss compared with PLW pigs. PLW pigs had higher WB and hardness values and more glycolytic muscles characterised by higher TNF. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Abnormal maximal finger tapping in abstinent cannabis users.

PubMed

Flavel, Stanley C; White, Jason M; Todd, Gabrielle

2013-11-01

To investigate movement speed and rhythmicity in abstinent cannabis users, we hypothesized that abstinent cannabis users exhibit decreased maximal finger tapping frequency and increased variability of tapping compared with non-drug users. The study involved 10 healthy adult cannabis users and 10 age-matched and gender-matched controls with no history of illicit drug use. Subjects underwent a series of screening tests prior to participation. Subjects were then asked to tap a strain gauge as fast as possible with the index finger of their dominant hand (duration 5 s). The average intertap interval did not significantly differ between groups, but the coefficient of variation of the intertap interval was significantly greater in the cannabis group than in controls (p=0.011). The cannabis group also exhibited a slow tapping frequency at the beginning of the task. Rhythmicity of finger tapping is abnormal in individuals with a history of cannabis use. The abnormality appears to be long lasting and adds to the list of functional changes present in abstinent cannabis users. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Transcranial direct current stimulation over the primary motor vs prefrontal cortex in refractory chronic migraine: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Andrade, Suellen Marinho; de Brito Aranha, Renata Emanuela Lyra; de Oliveira, Eliane Araújo; de Mendonça, Camila Teresa Ponce Leon; Martins, Wanessa Kallyne Nascimento; Alves, Nelson Torro; Fernández-Calvo, Bernardino

2017-07-15

Although transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) represents a therapeutic option for the prophylaxis of chronic migraine, the target area for application of the electrical current to the cortex has not yet been well established. Here we sought to determine whether a treatment protocol involving 12 sessions of 2mA, 20min anodal stimulation of the left primary motor (M1) or dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) could offer clinical benefits in the management of pain from migraine. Thirteen participants were assessed before and after treatment, using the Headache Impact Test-6, Visual Analogue Scale and Medical Outcomes Study 36 - Item Short - Form Health Survey. After treatment, group DLPFC exhibited a better performance compared with groups M1 and sham. On intragroup comparison, groups DLPFC and M1 exhibited a greater reduction in headache impact and pain intensity and a higher quality of life after treatment. No significant change was found in group sham. The participants in group M1 exhibited more adverse effects, especially headache, heartburn, and sleepiness, than did those in the other two groups. Transcranial direct current stimulation is a safe and efficacious technique for treating chronic migraine. However, it should be kept in mind that the site of cortical stimulation might modulate the patient's response to treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of end-group cross-linking on transport properties of sulfonated poly(phenylene sulfide nitrile)s for proton exchange membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Na Rae; Lee, So Young; Shin, Dong Won; Hwang, Doo Sung; Lee, Kang Hyuck; Cho, Doo Hee; Kim, Ji Hoon; Lee, Young Moo

2016-03-01

A series of end-group cross-linked membranes (Az-XESPSN) were prepared by click reaction to investigate the effects of cross-linking on the morphology and proton transport properties of proton exchange membranes. The morphological transformations resulting from thermal annealing and cross-linking were observed by means of atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Compared to the non-cross-linked ESPSN membranes, the Az-XESPSN membranes exhibited lower water uptake and improved mechanical and chemical stabilities. In addition, the Az-XESPSN membranes exhibited higher proton conductivities (0.018-0.028 S cm-1) compared to those of the ESPSN membranes (0.0044-0.0053 S cm-1) and Nafion 212 (0.0061 S cm-1), particularly in conditions of elevated temperature (120 °C) and low relative humidity (35%). Such enhancements can be attributed to a synergistic effect of well-defined hydrophilic ionic clusters and triazole groups that function as proton carriers under anhydrous conditions. Furthermore, the Az-XESPSN membranes exhibited significantly enhanced single cell performance and long-term stability compared to those of ESPSN membranes.

Influence of pigments and opacifiers on color stability of an artificially aged facial silicone.

PubMed

dos Santos, Daniela Micheline; Goiato, Marcelo Coelho; Moreno, Amália; Pesqueira, Aldiéris Alves; Haddad, Marcela Filiè

2011-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of two pigments (ceramic powder and oil paint) and one opacifier (barium sulfate) on the color stability of MDX4-4210 facial silicone submitted to accelerated aging. Sixty specimens of silicone were fabricated and divided into six groups--colorless (G1), colorless with opacifier (G2), ceramic (G3), ceramic with opacifier (G4), oil (G5), oil with opacifier (G6). All replicas were submitted to accelerated aging for 1008 hours. The evaluations of chromatic alteration through visual analysis and reflection spectrophotometry were carried out initially and after 252, 504, and 1008 hours of aging. The results were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test at 5% level of significance. All groups exhibited chromatic alteration (ΔE > 0); however, this color alteration was not perceptible through visual analysis of the color. The pigmented groups with opacifier presented the lowest ΔE values, with a statistical difference from the other groups. For the groups without opacifier, the group pigmented with oil paint exhibited the lowest ΔE values in the different aging periods, with a statistical difference. Accelerated aging generated significant chromatic alterations in all groups after 252 hours, except for the colorless and oil groups, both with opacifier (G2 and G6). The opacifier protects facial silicones against color degradation, and oil paint is a stable pigment even without addition of opacifier. © 2010 by The American College of Prosthodontists.

Comparison of Two Types of Insoles on Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Plantar Pressure Distribution in a Work Environment: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Almeida, Josiane S; Vanderlei, Franciele M; Pastre, Eliane C; Martins, Rodrigo A D M; Padovani, Carlos R; Filho, Guaracy C

2016-06-01

The aim of the present study was to assess plantar pressure distribution and musculoskeletal symptoms following the use of customized insoles among female assembly line workers. The study included 29 female assembly line workers (age, 29.76 ± 5.79 years; weight, 63.79 ± 12.11 kg) with musculoskeletal symptoms who work predominantly while standing. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was administered to the study population. Plantar pressure was determined using a computerized plantar pressure feedback system. A control group (n=13) used ethylvinylacetate insoles (Podaly®) that were individually heat molded and heat glued. The intervention group (n=14) also used the insoles and a strip of the same material was added to the site of greatest plantar pressure as determined by the electronic feedback device. After five weeks, the plantar pressure data were collected again and the questionnaire was administered a second time. There was no significant difference between groups with regard to pain in any anatomic site. However, within each group the lumbar region exhibited a reduction in symptoms in the intervention group (P<0.05), and the feet exhibited a reduction in symptoms in both groups (P<0.05). Mean plantar pressure increased and plantar surface decreased in the intervention group (P<0.05). Insoles increased foot comfort in both groups. However, the added strip did not significantly modify either plantar pressure or other symptoms in female workers. © 2016 Marshfield Clinic.

Resilience in the initial year of caregiving for a family member with a traumatic spinal cord injury.

PubMed

Elliott, Timothy R; Berry, Jack W; Richards, J Scott; Shewchuk, Richard M

2014-12-01

Individuals who assume caregiving duties for a family member disabled in a traumatic injury often exhibit considerable distress, yet few studies have examined characteristics of those who may be resilient in the initial year of caregiving. Reasoning from the influential Pearlin model of caregiving (Pearlin & Aneshensel, 1994) and the resilience process model (Bonanno, 2005), we expected a significant minority of caregivers would be chronically distressed and another group would be resilient throughout the inaugural year of caregiving for a person with a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI), and these groups would differ significantly in primary and secondary stress and in personal resources and mediators. Twenty men and 108 women who identified as caregivers for a family member who incurred a traumatic SCI consented to complete measures during the inpatient rehabilitation and at 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months postdischarge. Latent growth mixture modeling of depression symptoms over time revealed 3 groups of caregivers: chronic (24%), recovery (24%) and resilient (48%). The chronic group reported more anxiety, negative affect, and ill health than the other 2 groups throughout the year. The resilient group was best characterized by their enduring levels of positive affect and supportive social networks. A large percentage of individuals are resilient in the initial year of caregiving, and those who have problems adapting exhibit significant distress soon following the traumatic event. Early detection of and psychological interventions for individuals who have difficulty adjusting are indicated, as their distress is unlikely to abate untreated over the year.

The anti-osteoporotic and anti-atherogenic effects of alendronate and simvastatin in ovariectomized rats fed high fat diet: A comparative study of combination therapy versus monotherapy.

PubMed

Mohamed, Maha Tarek; Abuelezz, Sally A; Atalla, Suzi Sobhy; El Aziz, Lobna Fouad Abd; Gorge, Sonia Salib

2017-05-01

Epidemiological studies suggest a possible link between osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases. Mevalonate pathway was pointed to as a part of this link. This study was done to investigate the effects of Alendronate (Al) and Simvastatin (Sim), both act on the mevalonate pathway, on osteoporosis, dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic changes in ovariectomized (OVX) rats fed high fat diet (HFD). 60 female albino rats were equally divided into 5 groups: control sham, OVX-HFD untreated, OVX -HFD treated with Al (3mg/kg/d) or/and Sim (6mg/kg/d). Treatments were taken for 4 weeks by oral gavage and were started 8 weeks after ovariectomy. OVX-HFD untreated group exhibited a significant negative alteration in lipid profile and on different bone markers e.g. alkaline phosphatase, hydroxyproline and osteocalcin. A significant increase in body weights and on serum levels of TNFα, iNOS and leptin were also found compared to control sham group. Vascular reactivity studies revealed a significant decrease in effective concentration 50 of phenylephrine and in acetylcholine% of relaxation and a significant increase in maximum contractile response of phenylephrine. The atherosclerotic and osteoporotic changes were further confirmed histopathologically. Treatment of OVX-HFD with Al or/and Sim significantly improved these deleterious effects compared to OVX-HFD untreated group. Comparing the combination therapy versus the mono-therapy exhibited a significant improvement in different tested parameters which came in favor of the combination therapy. Al and Sim have anti-osteoporotic, anti-dyslipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic beneficial effects. Their combination has more promising effects in treatment of osteoporosis, dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Effect of exposure to solid wastes in relation to employment duration on some important markers of health and disease in waste management workers of Ogun State in southwest Nigeria.

PubMed

Odewabi, Adesina O; Ogundahunsi, Omobola A; Ekor, Martins

2013-12-01

Waste management workers (WMWs) around the world are at risk of work-related health disorders. The influence of employment duration on individuals occupationally exposed to solid waste was investigated in this study. The study comprised (n = 280) 180 WMWs and 100 controls. Employment duration was obtained from questionnaire survey and categorized into three groups: group I (0.5-2 years), group II (>2-4 years) and group III (>4-6 years). Blood sample (10 ml) was collected from the antecubital vein of subjects for analysis. WMWs exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) elevated inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP) and ceruloplasmin (Cp)) relative to control. While Cp increased, ESR and CRP decreased with increasing WMWs' employment duration. Alteration in oxidant/antioxidant markers was characterized by significant (p < 0.001) decrease in ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and catalase activity together with marked (p < 0.01) elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and uric acid (UA). TBARS, UA and FRAP increased while catalase decreased with WMWs' employment duration. In addition, WMWs exhibited significantly (p < 0.01) elevated immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG, which also increased and decreased, respectively, with job duration. The significantly (p < 0.01) decreased haemoglobin and haematocrit levels as well as the significantly (p < 0.001) elevated total leukocytes in WMWs increased with employment duration. Alanine aminotransferase increased and albumin decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in WMWs, and these changes also increased and decreased, respectively, with job duration. Data suggest that levels of alteration of important systemic markers of health/disease are related to WMWs' employment or exposure duration.

Digital memory encoding in Chinese dyscalculia: An event-related potential study.

PubMed

Wang, Enguo; Qin, Shutao; Chang, MengYan; Zhu, Xiangru

2014-10-22

This study reports the neurophysiological and behavioral correlates of digital memory encoding features in Chinese individuals with and without dyscalculia. Eighteen children with dyscalculia (ages 11.5-13.5) and 18 matched controls were tested, and their event-related potentials (ERPs) were digitally recorded simultaneously with behavioral measures. The results showed that both groups had a significant Dm effect, and this effect was greater in the control group. In the 300-400-ms, 400-500-ms, and 600-700-ms processing stages, both groups showed significant differences of digital memory encoding in the frontal, central, and parietal regions. In the 500-600-ms period, the Dm effect in the control group was significantly greater than that in the dyscalculia group only in the parietal region. These results suggest that individuals with dyscalculia exhibit impaired digital memory encoding and deficits in psychological resource allocation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Emotional indicators in children's human figure drawings.

PubMed

Catte, M; Cox, M V

1999-06-01

The human figure drawings of a group of emotionally-disturbed boys were compared with those of a group of well-adjusted boys closely matched for chronological age and another for mental age. A comparison based on Koppitz's (1968) original emotional indicators and another, based on new UK norms, showed that the emotionally-disturbed children included significantly more indicators in their drawings than their well-adjusted peers. Although this difference was statistically significant it is actually quite small. In addition, there were no differences among the groups in the kinds of indicators they exhibited. The usefulness of the Koppitz test as a tool for clinical use is questioned.

Dietary Administration of Banana (Musa acuminata) Peel Flour Affects the Growth, Antioxidant Status, Cytokine Responses, and Disease Susceptibility of Rohu, Labeo rohita

PubMed Central

Giri, Sib Sankar; Jun, Jin Woo; Sukumaran, Venkatachalam; Park, Se Chang

2016-01-01

To explore the feasibility of Musa acuminata (banana) peels as a feed additive, effects of banana peel flour (BPF) on the growth and immune functions of Labeo rohita were evaluated. Diets containing five different concentrations of BPF (0% [basal diet], 1% [B1], 3% [B3], 5% [B5], and 7% [B7]) were fed to the fish (average weight: 15.3 g) for 60 days. The final weight gain and specific growth rate were higher (P < 0.05) in the B5 group. The most significant improvements in immune parameters such as lysozyme, alternative complement pathway, leukocyte phagocytic, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were observed in the B5 group. However, the B5 group exhibited the lowest malondialdehyde activity. IgM and glutathione peroxidise activities were significantly elevated in the treatment groups, except in B1, after only 30 days of feeding. Of the examined cytokine-related genes, IL-1β, TNF-α, and HSP70 were upregulated in the head kidney and hepatopancreas, and expressions were generally higher in the B3 and B5 groups. Moreover, B5 group challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila 60 days after feeding exhibited the highest survival rate (70%; P < 0.05). These results suggest that dietary BPF at 5% could promote growth performance and strengthen immunity in L. rohita. PMID:27294156

Dietary Administration of Banana (Musa acuminata) Peel Flour Affects the Growth, Antioxidant Status, Cytokine Responses, and Disease Susceptibility of Rohu, Labeo rohita.

PubMed

Giri, Sib Sankar; Jun, Jin Woo; Sukumaran, Venkatachalam; Park, Se Chang

2016-01-01

To explore the feasibility of Musa acuminata (banana) peels as a feed additive, effects of banana peel flour (BPF) on the growth and immune functions of Labeo rohita were evaluated. Diets containing five different concentrations of BPF (0% [basal diet], 1% [B1], 3% [B3], 5% [B5], and 7% [B7]) were fed to the fish (average weight: 15.3 g) for 60 days. The final weight gain and specific growth rate were higher (P < 0.05) in the B5 group. The most significant improvements in immune parameters such as lysozyme, alternative complement pathway, leukocyte phagocytic, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were observed in the B5 group. However, the B5 group exhibited the lowest malondialdehyde activity. IgM and glutathione peroxidise activities were significantly elevated in the treatment groups, except in B1, after only 30 days of feeding. Of the examined cytokine-related genes, IL-1β, TNF-α, and HSP70 were upregulated in the head kidney and hepatopancreas, and expressions were generally higher in the B3 and B5 groups. Moreover, B5 group challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila 60 days after feeding exhibited the highest survival rate (70%; P < 0.05). These results suggest that dietary BPF at 5% could promote growth performance and strengthen immunity in L. rohita.

Precision of a CAD/CAM-engineered surgical template based on a facebow for orthognathic surgery: an experiment with a rapid prototyping maxillary model.

PubMed

Lee, Jae-Won; Lim, Se-Ho; Kim, Moon-Key; Kang, Sang-Hoon

2015-12-01

We examined the precision of a computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing-engineered, manufactured, facebow-based surgical guide template (facebow wafer) by comparing it with a bite splint-type orthognathic computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing-engineered surgical guide template (bite wafer). We used 24 rapid prototyping (RP) models of the craniofacial skeleton with maxillary deformities. Twelve RP models each were used for the facebow wafer group and the bite wafer group (experimental group). Experimental maxillary orthognathic surgery was performed on the RP models of both groups. Errors were evaluated through comparisons with surgical simulations. We measured the minimum distances from 3 planes of reference to determine the vertical, lateral, and anteroposterior errors at specific measurement points. The measured errors were compared between experimental groups using a t test. There were significant intergroup differences in the lateral error when we compared the absolute values of the 3-D linear distance, as well as vertical, lateral, and anteroposterior errors between experimental groups. The bite wafer method exhibited little lateral error overall and little error in the anterior tooth region. The facebow wafer method exhibited very little vertical error in the posterior molar region. The clinical precision of the facebow wafer method did not significantly exceed that of the bite wafer method. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Coordination pattern of baseball pitching among young pitchers of various ages and velocity levels.

PubMed

Chen, Hsiu-Hui; Liu, Chiang; Yang, Wen-Wen

2016-09-01

This study compared the whole-body movement coordination of pitching among 72 baseball players of various ages and velocity levels. Participants were classified as senior, junior, and little according to their age, with each group comprising 24 players. The velocity levels of the high-velocity (the top eight) and low-velocity (the lowest eight) groups were classified according to their pitching velocity. During pitching, the coordinates of 15 markers attached to the major joints of the whole-body movement system were collected for analysis. Sixteen kinematic parameters were calculated to compare the groups and velocity levels. Principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted to quantify the coordination pattern of pitching movement. The results were as follows: (1) five position and two velocity parameters significantly differed among the age groups, and two position and one velocity parameters significantly differed between the high- and low-velocity groups. (2) The coordination patterns of pitching movement could be described using three components, of which the eigenvalues and contents varied according to age and velocity level. In conclusion, the senior and junior players showed greater elbow angular velocity, whereas the little players exhibited a wider shoulder angle only at the beginning of pitching. The players with high velocity exhibited higher trunk and shoulder rotation velocity. The variations among groups found using PCA and kinematics parameter analyses were consistent.

Ingestion of hyaluronans (molecular weights 800 k and 300 k) improves dry skin conditions: a randomized, double blind, controlled study

PubMed Central

Kawada, Chinatsu; Yoshida, Takushi; Yoshida, Hideto; Sakamoto, Wakako; Odanaka, Wataru; Sato, Toshihide; Yamasaki, Takeshi; Kanemitsu, Tomoyuki; Masuda, Yasunobu; Urushibata, Osamu

2015-01-01

Hyaluronan (HA) has been increasingly used as a dietary supplement to improve the skin. However, the effect of ingested HA may depend on its molecular weight (MW) because its physiological activities in the body vary with its MW. In this study, we examined the effects of ingested HA with varying MW on the skin. In this randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study, 61 subjects with dry skin received oral HA (120 mg/day), of MWs 800 k and 300 k or placebo, for 6 weeks. The skin moisture contents of the first two groups increased more than those of the placebo group during the ingestion period. In addition, group HA 300 k exhibited significant improvements in skin moisture content 2 weeks after ingestion ended compared with the placebo group. A questionnaire survey about subjective facial aging symptoms showed that the HA treated groups exhibited significantly improved the skin condition compared with the placebo treated group. Furthermore, dermatologists objectively evaluated the clinical symptoms of the facial and whole body skin, showing that no adverse events were related to daily ingestion of HA. This study shows that both of ingesting HAs (MWs 800 k and 300 k) improved the skin condition by increasing the moisture content. PMID:25834304

Kinematic and Kinetic Analysis of the Single-Leg Triple Hop Test in Women With and Without Patellofemoral Pain.

PubMed

dos Reis, Amir Curcio; Correa, João Carlos Ferrari; Bley, André Serra; Rabelo, Nayra Deise dos Anjos; Fukuda, Thiago Yukio; Lucareli, Paulo Roberto Garcia

2015-10-01

Cross-sectional study. To compare the biomechanical strategies of the trunk and lower extremity during the transition period between the first and second hop of a single-leg triple hop test in women with and without patellofemoral pain (PFP). Recent literature has shown that PFP is associated with biomechanical impairments of the lower extremities. A number of studies have analyzed the position of the trunk and lower extremities for functional activities such as walking, squatting, jumping, and the step-down test. However, studies on more challenging activities, such as the single-leg triple hop test, may be more representative of sports requiring jumping movements. Women between 18 and 35 years of age (control group, n = 20; PFP group, n = 20) participated in the study. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data were collected during the transition period between the first and second hops while participants performed the single-leg triple hop test. Compared to the control group, women with PFP exhibited greater (P<.05) anterior and ipsilateral trunk lean, contralateral pelvic drop, hip internal rotation and adduction, and ankle eversion, while exhibiting less hip and knee flexion. A significant difference (P<.05) in time to peak joint angle was also found between groups for all the variables analyzed, except anterior pelvic tilt and hip flexion. In addition, women with PFP exhibited greater (P<.05) hip and knee abductor internal moments. Compared to the control group, women with PFP exhibited altered trunk, pelvis, hip, knee, and ankle kinematics and kinetics.

Tai Chi and vestibular rehabilitation improve vestibulopathic gait via different neuromuscular mechanisms: Preliminary report

PubMed Central

McGibbon, Chris A; Krebs, David E; Parker, Stephen W; Scarborough, Donna M; Wayne, Peter M; Wolf, Steven L

2005-01-01

Background Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is a well-accepted exercise program intended to remedy balance impairment caused by damage to the peripheral vestibular system. Alternative therapies, such as Tai Chi (TC), have recently gained popularity as a treatment for balance impairment. Although VR and TC can benefit people with vestibulopathy, the degree to which gait improvements may be related to neuromuscular adaptations of the lower extremities for the two different therapies are unknown. Methods We examined the relationship between lower extremity neuromuscular function and trunk control in 36 older adults with vestibulopathy, randomized to 10 weeks of either VR or TC exercise. Time-distance measures (gait speed, step length, stance duration and step width), lower extremity sagittal plane mechanical energy expenditures (MEE), and trunk sagittal and frontal plane kinematics (peak and range of linear and angular velocity), were measured. Results Although gait time-distance measures were improved in both groups following treatment, no significant between-groups differences were observed for the MEE and trunk kinematic measures. Significant within groups changes, however, were observed. The TC group significantly increased ankle MEE contribution and decreased hip MEE contribution to total leg MEE, while no significant changes were found within the VR group. The TC group exhibited a positive relationship between change in leg MEE and change in trunk velocity peak and range, while the VR group exhibited a negative relationship. Conclusion Gait function improved in both groups consistent with expectations of the interventions. Differences in each group's response to therapy appear to suggest that improved gait function may be due to different neuromuscular adaptations resulting from the different interventions. The TC group's improvements were associated with reorganized lower extremity neuromuscular patterns, which appear to promote a faster gait and reduced excessive hip compensation. The VR group's improvements, however, were not the result of lower extremity neuromuscular pattern changes. Lower-extremity MEE increases corresponded to attenuated forward trunk linear and angular movement in the VR group, suggesting better control of upper body motion to minimize loss of balance. These data support a growing body of evidence that Tai Chi may be a valuable complementary treatment for vestibular disorders. PMID:15717934

Medium-Term Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Matched Comparison with Gastric Bypass.

PubMed

Lee, Wei-Jei; Pok, Eng-Hong; Almulaifi, Abdullah; Tsou, Ju Juin; Ser, Kong-Han; Lee, Yi-Chih

2015-08-01

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is considered a primary bariatric surgery and is increasingly being performed worldwide; however, long-term data regarding the durability of this procedure are inadequate. Here, we report the long-term results of LSGs in comparison to those of gastric bypass surgeries. A prospectively collected bariatric database from Ming-Shen General Hospital was retrospectively studied. Five hundred nineteen morbidly obese patients (mean age 36.0 ± 9.1 years old (14-71), 74.6 % female, mean body mass index (BMI) 37.5 ± 6.1 kg/m(2)) underwent LSG as a primary bariatric procedure from 2006 to 2012 at our institute. The operative parameters, weight loss, laboratory data, and quality of life were followed. Another two matched groups of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic single anastomosis (mini-) gastric bypass (SAGB) patients who were matched in terms of age, sex, and BMI were recruited for comparisons. The mean surgical time for LSG was 113.5 ± 31.3 min, and the mean blood loss was 49.1 + 100.9 ml. The rate of major complications was 1.6 %, and the average length of the postoperative stay was 3.0 ± 1.7 days. The operation times of the RYGB patients were longer than those of both the LSG and SAGB patients. The RYGB and SAGB patients experienced higher major complication rate than the LSG patients. The weight loss of the LSG patient at 5 years was 28.3 + 8.9 %, and the mean BMI was 27.1 + 4.3. The RYGB patients exhibited a 5-year weight loss similar to the LSG patients, and the SAGB patients exhibited greater weight loss than both of the other groups. Both the RYGB and SAGB patients exhibited significantly better glycemic control and lower blood lipids than the LSG patients, but the LSG patients exhibited a lesser micronutrient deficiency than the RYGB and SAGB groups. All three of the groups exhibited improved quality of life at 5 years after surgery, and there was no significant between-group difference in this measure. LSG appears to be an ideal bariatric surgery, and the efficacy of this surgery is not inferior to that of gastric bypass.

Effect of Positive Psychological Intervention on Well-Being, 2-Week Illness Prevalence, and Salivary Immunoglobulin A.

PubMed

Jiang, Miaomiao; Yin, Zhiqin; Li, Sijiao; Chen, Xiaolin; Gu, Jiahuan

2018-06-01

The study aims to explore the effect of positive psychological intervention (fun activities combined with positive mental health education) on the well-being, 2-week illness prevalence, and salivary immunoglobulin A of empty nesters. Ninety-two empty nesters were divided into intervention ( n = 49) and control ( n = 43) groups. The empty nesters in the intervention group performed the intervention in addition to routine community activities. The intervention group scored significantly higher on well-being ( p< .05) compared with the control group after intervention. A week after intervention, salivary immunoglobulin A of the intervention group ( p< .05) was higher than that before intervention. Meanwhile, the difference in salivary immunoglobulin A in the control group before and after intervention was not statistically significant. 2-week illness prevalence in both groups did not exhibit a significant difference ( p> .05). Results indicate that positive psychological intervention can effectively increase the well-being and salivary immunoglobulin A of empty nesters and improve their physical and mental health.

Conceptual Complexity and Obsessionality in Bulimic College Women.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Nancy S.; Holloway, Elizabeth L.

1988-01-01

Examined relationship between bulimia, conceptual complexity, obsessional symptoms, and obsessional traits in 54 college women classified as bulimic-anorexic vomiters, normal-weight bulimic vomiters, clinical controls, and normal controls. Found both bulimic groups exhibited significantly lower levels of conceptual functioning, significantly…

Differentiation of Benign and Malignant Breast Tumors by In-Vivo Three-Dimensional Parallel-Plate Diffuse Optical Tomography

PubMed Central

Choe, Regine; Konecky, Soren D.; Corlu, Alper; Lee, Kijoon; Durduran, Turgut; Busch, David R.; Pathak, Saurav; Czerniecki, Brian J.; Tchou, Julia; Fraker, Douglas L.; DeMichele, Angela; Chance, Britton; Arridge, Simon R.; Schweiger, Martin; Culver, Joseph P.; Schnall, Mitchell D.; Putt, Mary E.; Rosen, Mark A.; Yodh, Arjun G.

2009-01-01

We have developed a novel parallel-plate diffuse optical tomography (DOT) system for three-dimensional in vivo imaging of human breast tumor based on large optical data sets. Images of oxy-, deoxy-, total-hemoglobin concentration, blood oxygen saturation, and tissue scattering were reconstructed. Tumor margins were derived using the optical data with guidance from radiology reports and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Tumor-to-normal ratios of these endogenous physiological parameters and an optical index were computed for 51 biopsy-proven lesions from 47 subjects. Malignant cancers (N=41) showed statistically significant higher total hemoglobin, oxy-hemoglobin concentration, and scattering compared to normal tissue. Furthermore, malignant lesions exhibited a two-fold average increase in optical index. The influence of core biopsy on DOT results was also explored; the difference between the malignant group measured before core biopsy and the group measured more than one week after core biopsy was not significant. Benign tumors (N=10) did not exhibit statistical significance in the tumor-to-normal ratios of any parameter. Optical index and tumor-to-normal ratios of total hemoglobin, oxy-hemoglobin concentration, and scattering exhibited high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values from 0.90 to 0.99, suggesting good discriminatory power. The data demonstrate that benign and malignant lesions can be distinguished by quantitative three-dimensional DOT. PMID:19405750

Metabolic responses to head-down suspension in hypophysectomized rats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodman, C. R.; Tipton, C. M.; Evans, J.; Linderman, J. K.; Gosselink, K.; Grindeland, R. E.

1993-01-01

Rats exposed to head-down suspension (HDS) exhibit reductions in maximal O2 consumption (VO2max) and atrophy of select hindlimb muscles. This study tested the hypothesis that an endocrine-deficient rat exposed to HDS would not exhibit reductions in VO2max or hindlimb muscle mass. Hypophysectomized (HYPX) and sham-operated (SHAM) rats were tested for VO2max before and after 28 days of HDS or cage control (CC) conditions. No significant reductions in VO2max were observed in HYPX rats. In contrast, SHAM-HDS rats exhibited a significant reduction in absolute (-16%) and relative (-29%) measures of aerobic capacity. Time course experiments revealed a reduction in VO2max in SHAM-HDS rats within 7 days, suggesting that cardiovascular adjustments to HDS occurred in the 1st wk. HDS was associated with atrophy of the soleus (-42%) in SHAM rats, whereas HYPX rats exhibited atrophy of the soleus (-36%) and plantaris (-13%). SHAM-HDS rats had significantly lower (-38%) soleus citrate synthase activities per gram muscle mass than SHAM-CC, but no significant differences existed between HYPX-HDS and -CC rats. HDS rats had an impaired ability to thermoregulate, as indicated by significantly greater temperature increases per unit run time, compared with their CC counterparts. Pretreatment plasma epinephrine levels were significantly lower in HYPX than in SHAM rats. Norepinephrine concentration was similar for all groups except HYPX-HDS, in which it was significantly higher. HDS had no significant effect on thyroxine or triiodothyronine. SHAM-HDS rats had significantly lower concentrations of testosterone and growth hormone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS).

Influence of Pre-Training Predator Stress on the Expression of c-fos mRNA in the Hippocampus, Amygdala, and Striatum Following Long-Term Spatial Memory Retrieval

PubMed Central

VanElzakker, Michael B.; Zoladz, Phillip R.; Thompson, Vanessa M.; Park, Collin R.; Halonen, Joshua D.; Spencer, Robert L.; Diamond, David M.

2011-01-01

We have studied the influence of pre-training psychological stress on the expression of c-fos mRNA following long-term spatial memory retrieval. Rats were trained to learn the location of a hidden escape platform in the radial-arm water maze, and then their memory for the platform location was assessed 24 h later. Rat brains were extracted 30 min after the 24-h memory test trial for analysis of c-fos mRNA. Four groups were tested: (1) Rats given standard training (Standard); (2) Rats given cat exposure (Predator Stress) 30 min prior to training (Pre-Training Stress); (3) Rats given water exposure only (Water Yoked); and (4) Rats given no water exposure (Home Cage). The Standard trained group exhibited excellent 24 h memory which was accompanied by increased c-fos mRNA in the dorsal hippocampus and basolateral amygdala (BLA). The Water Yoked group exhibited no increase in c-fos mRNA in any brain region. Rats in the Pre-Training Stress group were classified into two subgroups: good and bad memory performers. Neither of the two Pre-Training Stress subgroups exhibited a significant change in c-fos mRNA expression in the dorsal hippocampus or BLA. Instead, stressed rats with good memory exhibited significantly greater c-fos mRNA expression in the dorsolateral striatum (DLS) compared to stressed rats with bad memory. This finding suggests that stressed rats with good memory used their DLS to generate a non-spatial (cue-based) strategy to learn and subsequently retrieve the memory of the platform location. Collectively, these findings provide evidence at a molecular level for the involvement of the hippocampus and BLA in the retrieval of spatial memory and contribute novel observations on the influence of pre-training stress in activating the DLS in response to long-term memory retrieval. PMID:21738501

Effect of ceramic thickness and shade on mechanical properties of a resin luting agent.

PubMed

Passos, Sheila Pestana; Kimpara, Estevão Tomomitsu; Bottino, Marco Antonio; Rizkalla, Amin S; Santos, Gildo Coelho

2014-08-01

This study aimed to investigate the influence of ceramic thickness and shade on the Knoop hardness and dynamic elastic modulus of a dual-cured resin cement. Six ceramic shades (Bleaching, A1, A2, A3, A3.5, B3) and two ceramic thicknesses (1 mm, 3 mm) were evaluated. Disk specimens (diameter: 7 mm; thickness: 2 mm) of the resin cement were light cured under a ceramic block. Light-cured specimens without the ceramic block at distances of 1 and 3 mm were also produced. The Knoop hardness number (KHN), density, and dynamic Young's moduli were determined. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA and a Tukey B rank order test (p = 0.05). The bleaching 1-mm-thick group exhibited significantly higher dynamic Young's modulus. Lower dynamic Young's moduli were observed for the 3-mm-thick ceramic groups compared to bleaching 3-mm-thick group, and no difference was found among the other 3-mm groups. For the KHN, when A3.5 3-mm-thick was used, the KHN was significantly lower than bleaching and A1 1-mm-thick ceramic; however, no difference was exhibited between the thicknesses of the same shade. The dual-cured resin cement studied irradiated through the 1-mm-thick ceramic with the lightest shade (bleaching ceramic) exhibited a better elastic modulus, and there was no effect in KHN of the resin cement when light cured under different ceramic shades and thicknesses (1 and 3 mm), except when the A3.5 3-mm-thick ceramic was used. Variolink II irradiated through ceramic with the lowest chroma exhibited the highest elastic modulus; therefore, the light activation method might not be the same for all clinical situations. © 2014 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

The application of porous tantalum cylinder to the repair of comminuted bone defects: a study of rabbit firearm injuries

PubMed Central

Ren, Bo; Zhai, Zhenbo; Guo, Kai; Liu, Yanpu; Hou, Weihuan; Zhu, Qingsheng; Zhu, Jinyu

2015-01-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of porous tantalum material in repair tibial defects caused by firearm injuries in a rabbit model. A multifunctional biological impact machine was used to establish a rabbit tibial defect model of firearm injury. Porous tantalum rods were processed into a hollow cylinder. Kirschner wires were used for intramedullary fixation. We compared the differences of the bone ingrowth of the porous tantalum material by gross observations, X-rays and histological evaluations. The radiographic observations revealed that fibrous tissue covered the material surface after 4 weeks, and periosteal reactions and new bone callus extending materials appeared after 8 weeks. After 16 weeks, the calluses of the firearm injury group were completely wrapped around a porous tantalum material. The group with the highest Lane-Sandhu X-rays cores was the firearm injury and tantalum implant group, and the blank control group exhibited the lowest scores. The histological evaluations revealed that the presence of new bone around the biomaterial had grown into the porous tantalum. By the 16th week, the areas of bone tissue of the firearm injury group was significant higher than that of non-firearm injury group (P<0.05). The comminuted fractures treated with tantalum cylinders exhibited greater bone ingrowth in the firearm injury group. In conditions of firearm injuries, the porous tantalum biomaterial exhibited bone ingrowth that was beneficial to the treatment of bone defects. PMID:26131078

Maternal and neonatal outcomes of respiratory failure during pregnancy.

PubMed

Hung, Chen-Yiu; Hu, Han-Chung; Chiu, Li-Chung; Chang, Chih-Hao; Li, Li-Fu; Huang, Chung-Chi; Kao, Chuan-Chi; Cheng, Po-Jen; Kao, Kuo-Chin

2018-05-01

Obstetric patients comprise a limited portion of intensive care unit patients, but they often present with unfamiliar conditions and exhibit the potential for catastrophic deterioration. This study evaluated the maternal and neonatal outcomes of respiratory failure during pregnancy. Information on 71 patients at >25 weeks gestation in the ICU with respiratory failure was recorded between 2009 and 2013. The characteristics and outcomes of mothers and fetuses were determined through a retrospective chart review and evaluated using Student's t test, chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test. The leading causes of respiratory failure were postpartum hemorrhage and severe preeclampsia in the obstetric causes group and pneumonia in the nonobstetric causes group during pregnancy and the peripartum period. The non-obstetric causes group exhibited a higher incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome and renal replacement therapy as well as requiring more ventilator days. The patients in the obstetric causes group showed significant improvement after delivery in the partial pressure of arterial oxygen to the fraction of inspired oxygen and peak inspiratory pressure decrease. Both groups exhibited high incidences of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Neonatal complications resulting from meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) and sepsis were more common in the non-obstetric causes group; however, neurological development impairment was more common in the obstetric causes group. Obstetric cause was associated with longer ventilator free days and fewer episodes of ARDS after delivery. Neonatal complications resulting from different etiologies of respiratory failure were found to differ. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Effects of methylphenidate on attentional set-shifting in a genetic model of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

PubMed

Cao, Ai-hua; Yu, Lin; Wang, Yu-wei; Wang, Jun-mei; Yang, Le-jin; Lei, Ge-Fei

2012-02-28

Although deficits of attentional set-shifting have been reported in individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it is rarely examined in animal models. This study compared spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs; a genetic animal model of ADHD) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (normoactive control strains), on attentional set-shifting task (ASST) performance. Furthermore, the dose-effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on attentional set-shifting of SHR were investigated. In experiment 1, ASST procedures were conducted in SHR, WKY and SD rats of 8 each at the age of 5 weeks. Mean latencies at the initial phase, error types and numbers, and trials to criteria at each stage were recorded. In experiment 2, 24 SHR rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 8 each-- MPH-L (lower dose), MPH-H (higher dose), and SHR-vehicle groups. From 3 weeks, they were administered 2.5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg MPH or saline respectively for 14 consecutive days. All rats were tested in the ASST at the age of 5 weeks. The SHRs generally exhibited poorer performance on ASST than the control WKY and SD rats. Significant strain effects on mean latency [F (2, 21) = 639.636, p < 0.001] and trials to criterion [F (2, 21) = 114.118, p < 0.001] were observed. The SHRs were found to have more perseverative and regressive errors than the control strains (p < 0.001). After MPH treatment, the two MPH treated groups exhibited significantly longer latency and fewer trials to reach criterion than the SHR-vehicle group and the MPH-L group exhibited fewer trials to reach criterion in more stages compared with the MPH-H group. Significant main effects of treatment [F (2, 21) = 52.174, p < 0.001] and error subtype [F (2, 42) = 221.635, p < 0.01] were found. The SHR may be impaired in discrimination learning, reversal learning and attentional set-shifting. Our study provides evidence that MPH may improve the SHR's performance on attentional set-shifting and lower dose is more effective than higher dose.

Effects of methylphenidate on attentional set-shifting in a genetic model of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Although deficits of attentional set-shifting have been reported in individuals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it is rarely examined in animal models. Methods This study compared spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs; a genetic animal model of ADHD) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (normoactive control strains), on attentional set-shifting task (ASST) performance. Furthermore, the dose-effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on attentional set-shifting of SHR were investigated. In experiment 1, ASST procedures were conducted in SHR, WKY and SD rats of 8 each at the age of 5 weeks. Mean latencies at the initial phase, error types and numbers, and trials to criteria at each stage were recorded. In experiment 2, 24 SHR rats were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 8 each-- MPH-L (lower dose), MPH-H (higher dose), and SHR-vehicle groups. From 3 weeks, they were administered 2.5 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg MPH or saline respectively for 14 consecutive days. All rats were tested in the ASST at the age of 5 weeks. Results The SHRs generally exhibited poorer performance on ASST than the control WKY and SD rats. Significant strain effects on mean latency [F (2, 21) = 639.636, p < 0.001] and trials to criterion [F (2, 21) = 114.118, p < 0.001] were observed. The SHRs were found to have more perseverative and regressive errors than the control strains (p < 0.001). After MPH treatment, the two MPH treated groups exhibited significantly longer latency and fewer trials to reach criterion than the SHR-vehicle group and the MPH-L group exhibited fewer trials to reach criterion in more stages compared with the MPH-H group. Significant main effects of treatment [F (2, 21) = 52.174, p < 0.001] and error subtype [F (2, 42) = 221.635, p < 0.01] were found. Conclusions The SHR may be impaired in discrimination learning, reversal learning and attentional set-shifting. Our study provides evidence that MPH may improve the SHR's performance on attentional set-shifting and lower dose is more effective than higher dose. PMID:22369105

Hemostatic mechanism underlying microbubble-enhanced non-focused ultrasound in the treatment of a rabbit liver trauma model

PubMed Central

Zhao, Da-wei; Tian, Meng; Yang, Jian-zheng; Du, Peng; Bi, Jie; Zhu, Xinjian

2016-01-01

The aim of our study was to investigate the hemostatic mechanism underlying microbubble-enhanced non-focused ultrasound treatment of liver trauma. Thirty rabbits with liver trauma were randomly divided into three groups—the microbubble-enhanced ultrasound (MEUS; further subdivided based on exposure intensity into MEUS1 [0.11 W/cm2], MEUS2 [0.55 W/cm2], and MEUS3 [1.1 W/cm2]), ultrasound without microbubbles (US), and microbubbles without ultrasound (MB) groups. The pre- and post-treatment bleeding weight and visual bleeding scores were evaluated. The serum liver enzyme concentrations as well as the blood perfusion level represented by mean peak contrast intensity (PI) ratio in the treatment area were analyzed. The hemostatic mechanism was evaluated by histological and transmission electron microscopic examination of liver tissue samples. The MEUS subgroups 1–3 (grade 0–1, grade 0–2, and grade 1–2, respectively) exhibited significantly lower post-treatment visual bleeding scores than the US and MB groups (both, grade 3–4; all, P < 0.05). Subgroups MEUS1 (0.346 ± 0.345 g) and MEUS2 (2.232 ± 2.256 g) exhibited significantly lower post-treatment bleeding weight than the US and MB groups (5.698 ± 1.938 and 5.688 ± 2.317 g, respectively; all, P < 0.05). Additionally, MEUS subgroups 1–3 exhibited significantly lower post-treatment blood perfusion levels (PI ratios, 0.64 ± 0.085, 0.73 ± 0.045, and 0.84 ± 0.034, respectively) than the US and MB groups (PI ratios, 1.00 ± 0.005 and 0.99 ± 0.005, respectively; all, P < 0.05). In the MEUS group, hepatic cells became edematous and compressed the hepatic sinus and associated blood vessels. However, the serum liver enzyme levels were not significantly altered. Microbubble-enhanced non-focused ultrasound does not significantly affect blood perfusion and liver function and can be used to induce rapid hemostasis in case of liver trauma. PMID:27633577

A comparison of the shaping ability of three nickel-titanium rotary instruments: a micro-computed tomography study via a contrast radiopaque technique in vitro.

PubMed

Wei, Zhao; Cui, Zhi; Yan, Ping; Jiang, Han

2017-01-09

Micro-CT (μCT) studies that combine simulated canals with meglucamine diatrizoate to evaluate the shaping ability of nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments are lacking in the literature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the shaping ability of three new different nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals using μCT. Thirty simulated root canals with a curvature of 60° were randomly allocated into the following 3 groups (n = 10): Group 1, ProTaper Universal (PTU) rotary system; Group 2, Reciproc single-file system; and Group 3, K3XF rotary system. Pre- and post-instrumented images of simulated canals were scanned with μCT via a radiopaque contrast technique to build a 3-dimensional (3D) model. Canal transportation, volumetric change and centring ability were evaluated in each group. Instrument failure and preparation time were also recorded. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for statistical analysis and the significance level was set at p = 0.05. Reciproc produced greater volume change in the apical part of the canals compared with PTU and K3XF (p < 0.05). K3XF exhibited less transportation and better centring ability at the 2- and 3-mm levels from the apical foramen compared with PTU and Reciproc (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the centring ratio and transportation between PTU and Reciproc. Preparation time was significantly shorter in the Reciproc group (p < 0.05). Under the conditions of our study, all of the canals were 3D reconstructed successfully via the radiopaque contrast technique. Reciproc showed enhanced apical volume changes and K3XF exhibited better centring ability when compared with other groups.

Impact of water temperature and stressor controllability on swim stress-induced changes in body temperature, serum corticosterone, and immobility in rats.

PubMed

Drugan, Robert C; Eren, Senem; Hazi, Agnes; Silva, Jennifer; Christianson, John P; Kent, Stephen

2005-10-01

The present study compared the effects of three different water temperatures (20, 25, and 30 degrees C) and stressor controllability on several physiological and behavioral endpoints in an intermittent swim stress paradigm. The escape latency of rats in the 20 and 25 degrees C water was less than that observed for the 30 degrees C group. Both escape and yoked groups at 20 and 25 degrees C exhibited moderate to severe hypothermia following the swim stress session that returned to prestress levels 30-40 min post-stress. At 30 degrees C core body temperature (Tb) only decreased by 1 degree C for either swim group. Following swim, serum corticosterone (CORT) levels were significantly elevated in both escape and yoked groups in comparison to confined and home cage controls. The confined control group showed a significant elevation that was approximately halfway between the home cage control and the swim stress groups. At 30 degrees C, there was still a significant elevation of serum CORT in both swim groups in comparison to confined and home cage controls. Therefore, 30 degrees C appears to be the optimal water temperature to evaluate stress controllability effects in the current paradigm. In a final experiment, swim stressor controllability effects were examined in a 5 min forced swim test (FST) 24 h following the initial stress exposure. Rats exposed to yoked-inescapable swim stress at 30 degrees C exhibited more immobility than their escapable swim stress and confined counterparts, while the escape and confined controls did not differ. These results demonstrate that the behavioral deficits observed in the FST are attributable to the stress of inescapable swim and not swim stress per se.

Effects of dairy intake on weight maintenance

PubMed Central

Zemel, Michael B; Donnelly, Joseph E; Smith, Bryan K; Sullivan, Debra K; Richards, Joanna; Morgan-Hanusa, Danielle; Mayo, Matthew S; Sun, Xiaocun; Cook-Wiens, Galen; Bailey, Bruce W; Van Walleghen, Emily L; Washburn, Richard A

2008-01-01

Background To compare the effects of low versus recommended levels of dairy intake on weight maintenance and body composition subsequent to weight loss. Design and Methods Two site (University of Kansas-KU; University of Tennessee-UT), 9 month, randomized trial. Weight loss was baseline to 3 months, weight maintenance was 4 to 9 months. Participants were maintained randomly assigned to low dairy (< 1 dairy serving/d) or recommended dairy (> 3 servings/d) diets for the maintenance phase. Three hundred thirty eight men and women, age: 40.3 ± 7.0 years and BMI: 34.5 ± 3.1, were randomized; Change in weight and body composition (total fat, trunk fat) from 4 to 9 months were the primary outcomes. Blood chemistry, blood pressure, resting metabolism, and respiratory quotient were secondary outcomes. Energy intake, calcium intake, dairy intake, and physical activity were measured as process evaluation. Results During weight maintenance, there were no overall significant differences for weight or body composition between the low and recommended dairy groups. A significant site interaction occurred with the low dairy group at KU maintaining weight and body composition and the low dairy group at UT increasing weight and body fat. The recommended dairy group exhibited reductions in plasma 1,25-(OH)2-D while no change was observed in the low dairy group. No other differences were found for blood chemistry, blood pressure or physical activity between low and recommended dairy groups. The recommended dairy group showed significantly greater energy intake and lower respiratory quotient compared to the low dairy group. Conclusion Weight maintenance was similar for low and recommended dairy groups. The recommended dairy group exhibited evidence of greater fat oxidation and was able to consume greater energy without greater weight gain compared to the low dairy group. Recommended levels of dairy products may be used during weight maintenance without contributing to weight gain compared to diets low in dairy products. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00686426 PMID:18950508

Effects of air abrasion with alumina or glass beads on surface characteristics of CAD/CAM composite materials and the bond strength of resin cements

PubMed Central

Nobuaki, ARAO; Keiichi, YOSHIDA; Takashi, SAWASE

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective The study aimed to evaluate effects of air abrasion with alumina or glass beads on bond strengths of resin cements to CAD/CAM composite materials. Material and Methods CAD/CAM composite block materials [Cerasmart (CS) and Block HC (BHC)] were pretreated as follows: (a) no treatment (None), (b) application of a ceramic primer (CP), (c) alumina-blasting at 0.2 MPa (AB), (d) AB followed by CP (AB+CP), and (e) glass-beads blasting at 0.4 MPa (GBB) followed by CP (GBB+CP). The composite specimens were bonded to resin composite disks using resin cements [G-CEM Cerasmart (GCCS) and ResiCem (RC)]. The bond strengths after 24 h (TC 0) and after thermal cycling (TC 10,000 at 4–60°C) were measured by shear tests. Three-way ANOVA and the Tukey compromise post hoc tests were used to analyze statistically significant differences between groups (α=0.05). Results For both CAD/CAM composite materials, the None group exhibited a significant decrease in bond strength after TC 10,000 (p<0.05). AB showed significantly higher bond strength after TC 10,000 than the None group, while CP did not (p<0.05). GBB exhibited smaller surface defects than did AB; however, their surface roughnesses were not significantly different (p>0.05). The AB+CP group showed a significantly higher bond strength after TC 10,000 than did the AB group for RC (p<0.05), but not for GCCS. The GBB+CP group showed the highest bond strength for both thermal cyclings (p<0.05). Conclusions Air abrasion with glass beads was more effective in increasing bond durability between the resin cements and CAD/CAM composite materials than was using an alumina powder and a CP. PMID:26814465

Evaluation of a 12-week lifestyle education intervention with or without partial meal replacement in Thai adults with obesity and metabolic syndrome: a randomised trial.

PubMed

Chaiyasoot, Kusuma; Sarasak, Rungnapha; Pheungruang, Banchamaphon; Dawilai, Suwitcha; Pramyothin, Pornpoj; Boonyasiri, Adhiratha; Supapueng, Orawan; Jassil, Friedrich C; Yamwong, Preyanuj; Batterham, Rachel L

2018-04-25

There have been no studies examining the efficacy of meal replacement (MR) on weight loss and metabolic syndrome (MS) improvement in Southeast Asians. Thus, we undertook a 12-week randomised trial to evaluate the effect of a lifestyle education intervention alone (LEI) or with partial MR (LEI + MR) in obese Thai adults with MS. A total of 110 patients were randomised to receive either LEI or LEI + MR. Both groups received LEI to achieve weight loss. LEI + MR group additionally received two MR daily to replace either breakfast, lunch or dinner. Mean ± SE body mass index of all participants was 34.6 ± 0.6 kg/m 2 , mean ± SE age was 42.5 ± 1.1 years and 83% of patients were female. Both groups were compared for anthropometric and cardiometabolic indices at 12-week. Body weight was also compared at weeks 38 and 64. At 12 weeks, both groups exhibited statistically significant percentage weight loss (%WL) compared to initial weight but greater %WL was observed in LEI + MR compared to LEI, 2.9% vs. 1.5%, respectively (p < 0.05). MS criteria such as waist circumference and blood pressure improved significantly in both groups compared to baseline. However, improvement in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was only significant in LEI + MR, and more participants with impaired FPG at baseline in LEI + MR (42.9%) than LEI (19%) returned to normal FPG at 12 weeks (p < 0.05). HbA 1c , fasting insulin and HOMA-IR in LEI + MR were significantly lower than with LEI. At the end of the 12-week intervention period, 16% of participants no longer fulfilled MS criteria. A statistically significant weight loss from baseline persisted until 38 weeks but no longer reached statistically significant difference between groups CONCLUSIONS: LEI and LEI + MR were acceptable and led to improvement in weight and MS. LEI + MR group exhibited additional weight reduction and glycemic benefits at 12 weeks.

Resistance to fracture of teeth instrumented using novel EndoStar E5 rotary versus ProTaper NEXT and WaveOne file systems

PubMed Central

Pawar, Ajinkya M.; Pawar, Mansing G.; Thakur, Bhagyashree; Banga, Kulwinder Singh; Luke, Alexander Maniangat

2018-01-01

Aim: The current study compared the fracture resistance of samples instrumented by two rotary files and a reciprocating file, obturated with gutta-percha and AH Plus. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 freshly extracted mandibular premolar teeth with single roots and single canals were acquired and decoronated at or below the cementoenamel junction. The samples were randomly divided into four groups (n = 15). Group 1 control (noninstrumented/obturated), and for Groups 2–4 root canal instrumentation was done by EndoStar E5 (EE5), ProTaper NEXT (PTN), and WaveOne, respectively. Following instrumentation, the samples were obturated using gutta-percha cones and AH Plus sealer using lateral compaction. A week later, vertical load was applied to the specimen's canal in each group until fracture. The loads required for fracture were recorded and statistically analyzed. Results: The mean loads required to fracture (Newton; N) for the four groups were; 388.54 (±29.93), 310.35 (±26.05), 328.40 (±20.67), and 278.54 (±34.16). The loads exhibited highly significant difference (P < 0.0001; analysis variance). The following Tukey's post hoc test confirmed, both samples in Groups 2 and 3 required similar loads for fracture (P > 0.05) and significantly higher than Group 4 (P < 0.01). Conclusion: The samples instrumented by EE5 and PTN exhibit similar fracture resistance. PMID:29628648

The antiulcer effect of Cibotium barometz leaves in rats with experimentally induced acute gastric ulcer

PubMed Central

AL-Wajeeh, Nahla Saeed; Hajrezaie, Maryam; Al-Henhena, Nawal; Kamran, Sareh; Bagheri, Elham; Zahedifard, Maryam; Saremi, Kamelia; Noor, Suzita Mohd; Ali, Hapipah Mohd; Abdulla, Mahmood Ameen

2017-01-01

Cibotium barometz is a pharmaceutical plant customarily used in traditional medicine in Malaysia for the treatment of different diseases, such as gastric ulcer. The gastroprotective effect of C. barometz leaves against ethanol-induced gastric hemorrhagic abrasions in Sprague Dawley rats has been evaluated in terms of medicinal properties. Seven groups of rats (normal control and ulcerated control groups, omeprazole 20 mg/kg, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of C. barometz correspondingly) were used in antiulcer experiment and pretreated with 10% Tween 20. After 1 hour, the normal group was orally administered 10% Tween 20, whereas absolute alcohol was fed orally to ulcerated control, omeprazole, and experimental groups. Gastric’s homogenate were assessed for endogenous enzymes activities. Stomachs were examined macroscopically and histologically. Grossly, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in the ulcer area of rats pretreated with plant extract in a dose-dependent manner with respect to the ulcerated group. Homogenates of the gastric tissue exhibited significantly increased endogenous enzymes activities in rats pretreated with C. barometz extract associated with the ulcerated control group. Histology of rats pretreated with C. barometz extract group using hematoxylin and eosin staining exhibited a moderate-to-mild disruption of the surface epithelium with reduction in submucosal edema and leucocyte infiltration in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, it showed heat shock protein70 protein up-expression and BCL2-associated X protein downexpression. These outcomes might be attributed to the gastroprotective and antioxidative effects of the plant. PMID:28408799

Coping with preoperative anxiety in cesarean section: physiological, cognitive, and emotional effects of listening to favorite music.

PubMed

Kushnir, Jonathan; Friedman, Ahuva; Ehrenfeld, Mally; Kushnir, Talma

2012-06-01

Listening to music has a stress-reducing effect in surgical procedures. The effects of listening to music immediately before a cesarean section have not been studied. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of listening to selected music while waiting for a cesarean section on emotional reactions, on cognitive appraisal of the threat of surgery, and on stress-related physiological reactions. A total of 60 healthy women waiting alone to undergo an elective cesarean section for medical reasons only were randomly assigned either to an experimental or a control group. An hour before surgery they reported mood, and threat perception. Vital signs were assessed by a nurse. The experimental group listened to preselected favorite music for 40 minutes, and the control group waited for the operation without music. At the end of this period, all participants responded to a questionnaire assessing mood and threat perception, and the nurse measured vital signs. Women who listened to music before a cesarean section had a significant increase in positive emotions and a significant decline in negative emotions and perceived threat of the situation when compared with women in the control group, who exhibited a decline in positive emotions, an increase in the perceived threat of the situation, and had no change in negative emotions. Women who listened to music also exhibited a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure compared with a significant increase in diastolic blood pressure and respiratory rate in the control group. Listening to favorite music immediately before a cesarean section may be a cost-effective, emotion-focused coping strategy. (BIRTH 39:2 June 2012). © 2012, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2012, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of sealer coating and storage methods on the surface roughness of soft liners.

PubMed

Usta Kutlu, Ilknur; Yanikoğlu, Nuran Dinckal; Kul, Esra; Duymuş, Zeynep Yesïl; Sağsöz, Nurdan Polat

2016-03-01

A soft lining is applied under a removable prosthesis for various reasons. The porosity of the lining material may increase colonization by microorganisms and cause tissue inflammation. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of sealer coating on the surface roughness of soft lining materials under 4 different conditions. A total of 125 specimens were prepared. One high-temperature silicone-based soft lining material and 2 room-temperature-polymerized soft lining materials (1 silicone-based and 1 methacrylate-based) were used. Twenty-five specimens of each room-temperature soft lining material were coated with 2 layers of surface sealer. Additionally, 5 specimens of each material were stored in either distilled water, Coca-Cola, denture cleanser, saliva, or air. The surface roughness was measured at baseline and after 1, 7, 14, and 28 days. Surface roughness values were analyzed with repeated measures analysis of variance, and the Bonferroni multiple comparison test was performed using time-dependent groups and storage methods. In the time-dependent groups, methacrylate-based sealer-coated soft liners exhibited a significant increase in roughness (1.74-2.09 μm, P<.001), and silicone-based sealer-coated soft liners exhibited a decrease in roughness, but it was not significant (2.16-2.02 μm, P>.05). Therefore, the sealer coating was not effective in reducing surface roughness. Among the time-dependent storage methods, the denture cleanser exhibited an almost significant increase in roughness (1.83-1.99 μm, P=.054). Coca-Cola and artificial saliva did not show a significant difference (P>.05). However, a significant decrease in roughness was found with distilled water (P=.02) and air (P<.001). Statistically significant differences in surface roughness were found among the different types of soft liners. The sealer coating had no significant effect, and denture cleanser slightly increased the surface roughness. Contrary to expectations, the roughness did not increase in all groups over time. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psychosocial factors and tooth wear with a significant component of attrition.

PubMed

da Silva, A M; Oakley, D A; Hemmings, K W; Newman, H N; Watkins, S

1997-06-01

Pathological tooth wear is often associated with bruxism, which appears in turn to be influenced by psychosocial factors. This study investigated putative relationships between psychosocial factors (total and average perceived stress, state and trait anxiety) and tooth wear, comparing 45 patients exhibiting tooth wear with a significant component of attrition to 45 controls. Groups were matched for gender and age. Subjects completed the Modified and Perceived Stress Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. A between-groups multivariate analysis of variance indicated that the two groups did not differ significantly on the combined psychosocial factors, F(4,85) = 1.16, P > 0.05. However, a univariate F-test showed that tooth-wear patients presented significantly more trait anxiety than controls, F(1,88) = 4.15, P < 0.05. Further research is indicated to clarify the importance of trait anxiety and other psychosocial factors in the progression of tooth wear with a significant component of attrition.

Lower extremity joint moments of collegiate soccer players differ between genders during a forward jump.

PubMed

Hart, Joseph M; Garrison, J Craig; Palmieri-Smith, Riann; Kerrigan, D Casey; Ingersoll, Christopher D

2008-05-01

Lower extremity kinetics while performing a single-leg forward jump landing may help explain gender biased risk for noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury. Gender comparison of lower extremity joint angles and moments. Static groups comparison. Motion analysis laboratory. 8 male and 8 female varsity, collegiate soccer athletes. 5 single-leg landings from a 100cm forward jump. Peak and initial contact external joint moments and joint angles of the ankle, knee, and hip. At initial heel contact, males exhibited a adduction moment whereas females exhibited a abduction moment at the hip. Females also had significantly less peak hip extension moment and significantly less peak hip internal rotation moment than males had. Females exhibited greater knee adduction and hip internal rotation angles than men did. When decelerating from a forward jump, gender differences exist in forces acting at the hip.

Influence of dosing times on cisplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in rats.

PubMed

Seto, Yoshihiro; Okazaki, Fumiyasu; Horikawa, Keiji; Zhang, Jing; Sasaki, Hitoshi; To, Hideto

2016-09-27

Although cis-diamminedichloro-platinum (CDDP) exhibits strong therapeutic effects in cancer chemotherapy, its adverse effects such as peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, and vomiting are dose-limiting factors. Previous studies reported that chronotherapy decreased CDDP-induced nephropathy and vomiting. In the present study, we investigated the influence of dosing times on CDDP-induced peripheral neuropathy in rats. CDDP (4 mg/kg) was administered intravenously at 5:00 or 17:00 every 7 days for 4 weeks to male Sprague-Dawley rats, and saline was given to the control group. To assess the dosing time dependency of peripheral neuropathy, von-Frey test and hot-plate test were performed. In order to estimate hypoalgesia, the hot-plate test was performed in rats administered CDDP weekly for 4 weeks. On day 28, the withdrawal latency to thermal stimulation was significantly prolonged in the 17:00-treated group than in the control and 5:00-treated groups. When the von-Frey test was performed to assess mechanical allodynia, the withdrawal threshold was significantly lower in the 5:00 and 17:00-treated groups than in the control group on day 6 after the first CDDP dose. The 5:00-treated group maintained allodynia throughout the experiment with the repeated administration of CDDP, whereas the 17:00-treated group deteriorated from allodynia to hypoalgesia. It was revealed that the severe of CDDP-induced peripheral neuropathy was inhibited in the 5:00-treated group, whereas CDDP-treated groups exhibited mechanical allodynia. These results suggested that the selection of an optimal dosing time ameliorated CDDP-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Evaluation of Refractive Errors and Ocular Biometric Outcomes after Intravitreal Bevacizumab for Retinopathy of Prematurity.

PubMed

Gunay, Murat; Sekeroglu, Mehmet Ali; Bardak, Handan; Celik, Gokhan; Esenulku, Cenap Mahmut; Hekimoglu, Emre; Bardak, Yavuz

2016-06-01

To assess ocular biometric outcomes following intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) monotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and compare these results with those of laser photocoagulated infants and with the ones with spontaneously regressed ROP. Premature infants including those who underwent IVB monotherapy (Group 1) or laser photocoagulation (Group 2) for ROP and infants with spontaneously regressed ROP (Group 3) were recruited for the study. Refractive errors and ocular biometric parameters (Axial length [AL], anterior chamber depth [ACD], and lens thickness [LT]) were measured at adjusted 1 year of age in all subjects. There was no significant difference of spherical equivalent (SE) value between the groups (P = 0.781). The incidence of high myopia was 7.4% in Group 1 and 12.7% in Group 2 (P = 0.081). No infants exhibited high myopia in Group 3. LT was greater in Group 2 when compared to Group 1 and Group 3 (P = 0.011). Lower SE was significantly correlated to longer AL in Group 1 (r = -0.656, P = 0.015). There was a significant positive correlation between SE and ACD values in Group 2 (r = 0.391, P = 0.005). The study showed no significant difference of SE between the groups. High myopia was only present among the treated infants either with IVB or laser. Infants who received laser treatment significantly had thicker lenses.

Stress and Anxiety Management in Nursing Students: Biofeedback and Mindfulness Meditation.

PubMed

Ratanasiripong, Paul; Park, Janet F; Ratanasiripong, Nop; Kathalae, Duangrat

2015-09-01

The current study investigated the efficacy of two brief intervention programs-biofeedback and mindfulness meditation-on levels of state anxiety and perceived stress in second-year Thai nursing students as they began clinical training. Eighty-nine participants from a public nursing college in Thailand were randomly assigned to one of three groups: biofeedback group, mindfulness meditation group, or a control group. All participants were given pre- and postintervention surveys, which included demographic information; the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (State Anxiety Scale); and the Perceived Stress Scale. Findings indicated that biofeedback significantly reduced anxiety and maintained stress levels in nursing students. Mindfulness meditation similarly decreased anxiety levels, while also significantly lowering stress levels. The biofeedback group exhibited significant reduction in anxiety levels among the three groups at postintervention. Despite stressors and demands nursing students experience as they begin clinical practice, study findings support the use of biofeedback and mindfulness meditation interventions to assist nursing students in managing stress and anxiety. Copyright 2015, SLACK Incorporated.

Effects of regular Tai Chi practice and jogging on neuromuscular reaction during lateral postural control in older people.

PubMed

Wang, Shao-Jun; Xu, Dong-Qing; Li, Jing-Xian

2017-01-01

This study examined the effects of regular Tai Chi practice and jogging on the neuromuscular activity of the trunk, hip, and ankle joint muscles of older people during lateral postural perturbation. A total of 42 older people participated in the study and formed the Tai Chi, jogging, and sedentary control groups. Electromyography signals were collected from the peroneus longus, anterior tibialis, gluteus medius, and erector spinae during unpredictable mediolateral perturbation. The Tai Chi group exhibited significantly faster latencies of the tibialis anterior and erector spinae than the control group. The jogging group showed a significantly shorter neuromuscular reaction time of the erector spinae than the control group. No significant difference was observed between the Tai Chi and jogging groups. Long-term regular Tai Chi practice enhanced the neuromuscular reaction of the erector spinae and tibialis anterior to lateral perturbation and will help timely posture correction when lateral postural distributions occur.

Two chronic motor training paradigms differentially influe nce acute instrume ntal learning in spinally transected rats

PubMed Central

Bigbee, Allison J.; Crown, Eric D.; Ferguson, Adam R.; Roy, Roland R.; Tillakaratne, Niranjala J.K.; Grau, James W.; Edgerton, V. Reggie

2008-01-01

The effect of two chronic motor training paradigms on the ability of the lumbar spinal cord to perform an acute instrumental learning task was examined in neonatally (postnatal day 5; P5) spinal cord transected (i.e., spinal) rats. At ∼P30, rats began either unipedal hindlimb stand training (Stand-Tr; 20-25 min/day, 5 days/wk), or bipedal hindlimb step training (Step-Tr; 20 min/day; 5 days/wk) for 7 wks. Non-trained spinal rats (Non-Tr) served as controls. After 7 wks all groups were tested on the flexor-biased instrumental learning paradigm. We hypothesized that 1) Step-Tr rats would exhibit an increased capacity to learn the flexor-biased task relative to Non-Tr subjects, as locomotion involves repetitive training of the tibialis anterior (TA), the ankle flexor whose activation is important for successful instrumental learning, and 2) Stand-Tr rats would exhibit a deficit in acute motor learning, as unipedal training activates the ipsilateral ankle extensors, but not flexors. Results showed no differences in acute learning potential between Non-Tr and Step-Tr rats, while the Stand-Tr group showed a reduced capacity to learn the acute task. Further investigation of the Stand-Tr group showed that, while both the ipsilateral and contralateral hindlimbs were significantly impaired in their acute learning potential, the contralateral, untrained hindlimbs exhibited significantly greater learning deficits. These results suggest that different types of chronic peripheral input may have a significant impact on the ability to learn a novel motor task, and demonstrate the potential for experience-dependent plasticity in the spinal cord in the absence of supraspinal connectivity. PMID:17434606

DMARD use is associated with a higher risk of dementia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A propensity score-matched case-control study.

PubMed

Chou, Ming-Hsien; Wang, Jong-Yi; Lin, Cheng-Li; Chung, Wei-Sheng

2017-11-01

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) exhibit an increased risk of dementia. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are commonly used to slow RA progression, but studies investigating the relationship between DMARDs and dementia in patients with RA are lacking. We investigated the relationship between DMARDs and dementia in patients with RA. Using the National Health Insurance Research Database, patients aged ≥20years, who were newly diagnosed with RA between 2000 and 2011 were identified. Patients with RA who had dementia comprised the dementia group, and patients with RA who did not have dementia comprised the control group. The groups were matched at a 1:1 ratio by the propensity score. DMARDs were categorized into conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) and biological DMARDs (bDMARDs). Logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) to evaluate the association between DMARD use and the risk of dementia in patients with RA. A total of 957 patients with RA and dementia, and 957 patients with RA but not dementia, were enrolled. The risk of dementia was determined to be 1.63-fold higher in patients with RA with csDMARD use than in those without csDMARD use (95% CI=1.33-2.00). No significant risk of dementia was observed in patients with RA who used bDMARDs compared with their counterparts. However, patients with RA who used hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine exhibited significant risks of dementia, irrespective of cumulative exposure days. Patients with RA who used csDMARDs exhibit significant association with dementia. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Behavioral Reactivity and Approach-Withdrawal Bias in Infancy

PubMed Central

Hane, Amie Ashley; Fox, Nathan A.; Henderson, Heather A.; Marshall, Peter J.

2008-01-01

Seven hundred and seventy nine infants were screened at 4 months of age for motor and emotional reactivity. At age 9 months, infants who showed extreme patterns of motor and negative (n = 75) or motor and positive (n = 73) reactivity and an unselected control group (n = 86) were administered the Laboratory Temperament Assessment Battery (Lab-TAB), and baseline electroencephalogram (EEG) data were collected. Negatively reactive infants showed significantly more avoidance than positively reactive infants and displayed a pattern of right frontal EEG asymmetry. Positively reactive infants exhibited significantly more approach behavior than controls and exhibited a pattern of left frontal asymmetry. Results support the notion that approach-withdrawal bias underlies reactivity in infancy. PMID:18793079

Msx1-modulated muscle satellite cells retain a primitive state and exhibit an enhanced capacity for osteogenic differentiation

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

Ding, Ke, E-mail: dingke@med.uestc.edu.cn; Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072; Department of Orthopaedics, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038

Multipotent muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) have been identified as potential seed cells for bone tissue engineering. However, MuSCs exhibit a rapid loss of stemness after in vitro culturing, thereby compromising their therapeutic efficiency. Muscle segment homeobox gene 1 (msx1) has been found to induce the dedifferentiation of committed progenitor cells, as well as terminally differentiated myotubes. In this study, a Tet-off retroviral gene delivery system was used to modulate msx1 expression. After ten passages, MuSCs that did not express msx-1 (e.g., the non-msx1 group) were compared with MuSCs with induced msx-1 expression (e.g., the msx1 group). The latter group exhibitedmore » a more juvenile morphology, it contained a significantly lower percentage of senescent cells characterized by positive β-galactosidase staining, and it exhibited increased proliferation and a higher proliferation index. Immunocytochemical stainings further detected a more primitive gene expression profile for the msx1 group, while osteogenic differentiation assays and ectopic bone formation assays demonstrated an improved capacity for the msx1 group to undergo osteogenic differentiation. These results suggest that transient expression of msx1 in MuSCs can retain a primitive state, thereby enhancing their capacity for osteogenic differentiation and restoring the potential for MuSCs to serve as seed cells for bone tissue engineering.« less

Development of a Titanium Plate for Mandibular Angle Fractures with a Bone Defect in the Lower Border: Finite Element Analysis and Mechanical Test

PubMed Central

Goulart, Douglas Rangel; Kemmoku, Daniel Takanori; Noritomi, Pedro Yoshito

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Objectives The aim of the present study was to develop a plate to treat mandibular angle fractures using the finite element method and mechanical testing. Material and Methods A three-dimensional model of a fractured mandible was generated using Rhinoceros 4.0 software. The models were exported to ANSYS®, in which a static application of displacement (3 mm) was performed in the first molar region. Three groups were assessed according to the method of internal fixation (2 mm system): two non-locking plates; two locking plates and a new design locking plate. The computational model was transferred to an in vitro experiment with polyurethane mandibles. Each group contained five samples and was subjected to a linear loading test in a universal testing machine. Results A balanced distribution of stress was associated with the new plate design. This plate modified the mechanical behavior of the fractured region, with less displacement between the fractured segments. In the mechanical test, the group with two locking plates exhibited greater resistance to the 3 mm displacement, with a statistically significant difference when compared with the new plate group (ANOVA, P = 0.016). Conclusions The new plate exhibited a more balanced distribution of stress. However, the group with two locking plates exhibited greater mechanical resistance. PMID:26539287

Anti-fibrotic effects of L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid via modulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in rats.

PubMed

Kim, In Hee; Kim, Dae-Ghon; Hao, Peipei; Wang, Yunpeng; Kim, Seong Hun; Kim, Sang Wook; Lee, Seung Ok; Lee, Soo Teik

2012-06-01

L-2-Oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (OTC) is a cysteine prodrug that maintains glutathione in tissues. The present study was designed to investigate anti-fibrotic and anti-oxidative effects of OTC via modulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in an in vivo thioacetamide (TAA)-induced hepatic fibrosis model. Treatment with OTC (80 or 160 mg/kg) improved serum liver function parameters and significantly ameliorated liver fibrosis. The OTC treatment groups exhibited significantly lower expression of α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-β 1, and collagen α 1 mRNA than that in the TAA model group. Furthermore, the OTC treatment groups showed a significant decrease in hepatic malondialdehyde level compared to that in the TAA model group. Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 expression increased significantly in the OTC treatment groups compared with that in the TAA model group. Taken together, these results suggest that OTC restores the anti- oxidative system by upregulating Nrf2; thus, ameliorating liver injury and a fibrotic reaction.

Are Patients with Spontaneous CSF Otorrhea and Superior Canal Dehiscence Congenitally Predisposed to Their Disorders?

PubMed

Stevens, Shawn M; Hock, Kiefer; Samy, Ravi N; Pensak, Myles L

2018-04-01

Objectives (1) Compare lateral skull base (LSB) height/thickness in patients with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid otorrhea (CSF), superior canal dehiscence (SCD), acoustic neuromas (AN), and otosclerosis (OTO). (2) Perform correlations between age, body mass index (BMI), sex, and LSB height/thickness. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary referral center. Subjects and Methods Patients with CSF, SCD, AN, and OTO diagnosed from 2006 to 2016 were included if they had high-definition temporal bone computed tomography (CT) and absence of trauma, radiation, chronic ear disease, and/or congenital anomaly. CT-based measurements included LSB height/thickness and pneumatization rates overlaying the external auditory canal (EAC), tegmen tympani (TgT), perigeniculate region (PG), and internal auditory canal (IAC). LSB height/thickness, age, sex, and BMI were statistically correlated. In total, 256 patients and 493 ears (109 CSF, 115 SCD, 269 AN/OTO) were measured. Results Patients with CSF had significantly higher BMIs than the other groups ( P < .001). Patients with CSF and SCD had similar radiographic LSB phenotypes at most measured locations. Both groups exhibited a significantly lower LSB height compared to the AN and OTO groups (mean, 3.9-4.2 mm vs 4.9-5.6 mm; P < .001). Patients with CSF and SCD also demonstrated significantly lower pneumatization rates, as low as 17% to 23% overlaying the PG and IAC ( P < .001). There were no statistically significant correlations found between age, sex, BMI, and LSB height/thickness at any measurement location in any group. Conclusions Patients with CSF and SCD exhibit similar radiographic LSB phenotypes. Age, sex, and BMI do not significantly correlate with LSB height/thickness. These data support the theory that CSF and SCD arise via similar congenital pathoetiologic mechanisms.

Tailored educational supportive care programme on sleep quality and psychological distress in patients with heart failure: A randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Chang, Yia-Ling; Chiou, Ai-Fu; Cheng, Shu-Meng; Lin, Kuan-Chia

2016-09-01

Up to 74% of patients with heart failure report poor sleep in Taiwan. Poor symptom management or sleep hygiene may affect patients' sleep quality. An effective educational programme was important to improve patients' sleep quality and psychological distress. However, research related to sleep disturbance in patients with heart failure is limited in Taiwan. To examine the effects of a tailored educational supportive care programme on sleep disturbance and psychological distress in patients with heart failure. randomised controlled trial. Eighty-four patients with heart failure were recruited from an outpatient department of a medical centre in Taipei, Taiwan. Patients were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n=43) or the control group (n=41). Patients in the intervention group received a 12-week tailored educational supportive care programme including individualised education on sleep hygiene, self-care, emotional support through a monthly nursing visit at home, and telephone follow-up counselling every 2 weeks. The control group received routine nursing care. Data were collected at baseline, the 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks after patients' enrollment. Outcome measures included sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, anxiety, and depression. The intervention group exhibited significant improvement in the level of sleep quality and daytime sleepiness after 12 weeks of the supportive nursing care programme, whereas the control group exhibited no significant differences. Anxiety and depression scores were increased significantly in the control group at the 12th week (p<.001). However, anxiety and depression scores in the intervention group remained unchanged after 12 weeks of the supportive nursing care programme (p>.05). Compared with the control group, the intervention group had significantly greater improvement in sleep quality (β=-2.22, p<.001), daytime sleepiness (β=-4.23, p<.001), anxiety (β=-1.94, p<.001), and depression (β=-3.05, p<.001) after 12 weeks of the intervention. This study confirmed that a supportive nursing care programme could effectively improve sleep quality and psychological distress in patients with heart failure. We suggested that this supportive nursing care programme should be applied to clinical practice in cardiovascular nursing. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Immunological responses and disease resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) juveniles following dietary administration of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica).

PubMed

Saeidi Asl, Mohammad Reza; Adel, Milad; Caipang, Christopher Marlowe A; Dawood, Mahmoud A O

2017-12-01

The present study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) on growth performance, skin mucus, immune response and disease resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed with diets supplemented with U. dioica at 0, 1, 2 and 3%. After 8 weeks of feeding, the addition of U. dioica at 3% level resulted in improved weight gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio significantly when compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). Hematological responses including: hematocrit (Htc), hemoglobin (Hb), lymphocyte and neutrophil populations enhanced significantly in fish fed 3% of stinging nettle when measured after 4 weeks; while, total red blood cells, white blood, Htc, Hb, lymphocyte and neutrophil populations significantly increased after 8 weeks in the same group (P < 0.05). Total serum protein and glucose contents increased significantly in fish fed stinging nettle at 3% when compared to the other groups after 8 weeks; however, triglycerides decreased significantly in the same group on the 4th and 8th week (P < 0.05). Additionally, several immune parameters, namely, IgM, lysozyme, complement components C3 and C4, and respiratory burst of blood leukocytes significantly increased in the 3% fed group on the 4th week; while, after 8 weeks the immune responses enhanced in fish fed 2 and 3% diets (P < 0.05). At the end of the feeding trial, mucus samples obtained from the fish fed stinging nettle supplementation exhibited improved antagonistic activities against several bacterial pathogens (Streptococcus iniae, Yersinia ruckeri, Vibrio anguillarum and Lactococcus garviae), skin mucus enzymes activities (alkaline phosphatase, lysozyme, protease and esterase) and protein levels in 2 and 3% groups with the highest being in case of 3% group when compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). The cumulative mortality of rainbow trout subjected to Y. ruckeri infectious exhibited relatively low mortality levels in all supplemented groups with the lowest being in fish fed 3% stinging nettle. The present findings demonstrated that dietary administration of U. dioica enhanced growth and stimulated fish immunity; thus, enabling the fish to be more resistant against bacterial infections. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Adult cognitive outcomes following childhood mild traumatic brain injuries.

PubMed

Yumul, Joy Noelle; McKinlay, Audrey

2017-10-01

To investigate the adult cognitive outcomes of one versus multiple childhood mTBI and to examine the potential predictors of the outcomes. Review of neurosurgical files and hospital records, as well as community recruitment, yielded 169 participants, who were injured between ages 0-17 years and assessed between ages 18-30 years with at least five years post-injury. Each participant underwent a three-hour assessment. For data analysis, participants were grouped by type and number of injury. The mTBI group exhibited some cognitive deficits but their performance fell between the control and moderate/severe TBI groups as expected. Those with one and multiple mTBI performed comparably across all cognitive domains. Cognitive outcomes were significantly predicted by estimated IQ but not by number of mTBI and age at injury. Despite the detected cognitive deficits, those who sustained multiple mTBI did not exhibit worse or cumulative deficits compared to those with one mTBI.

Age-related increase in brain activity during task-related and -negative networks and numerical inductive reasoning.

PubMed

Sun, Li; Liang, Peipeng; Jia, Xiuqin; Qi, Zhigang; Li, Kuncheng

2014-01-01

Recent neuroimaging studies have shown that elderly adults exhibit increased and decreased activation on various cognitive tasks, yet little is known about age-related changes in inductive reasoning. To investigate the neural basis for the aging effect on inductive reasoning, 15 young and 15 elderly subjects performed numerical inductive reasoning while in a magnetic resonance (MR) scanner. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis revealed that numerical inductive reasoning, relative to rest, yielded multiple frontal, temporal, parietal, and some subcortical area activations for both age groups. In addition, the younger participants showed significant regions of task-induced deactivation, while no deactivation occurred in the elderly adults. Direct group comparisons showed that elderly adults exhibited greater activity in regions of task-related activation and areas showing task-induced deactivation (TID) in the younger group. Our findings suggest an age-related deficiency in neural function and resource allocation during inductive reasoning.

Young Athletes program: impact on motor development.

PubMed

Favazza, Paddy C; Siperstein, Gary N; Zeisel, Susan A; Odom, Samuel L; Sideris, John H; Moskowitz, Andrew L

2013-07-01

This study examined the effectiveness of the Young Athletes program to promote motor development in preschool-aged children with disabilities. In the study, 233 children were randomly assigned to a control group or the Young Athletes (YA) intervention group which consisted of 24 motor skill lessons delivered 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM) showed that children who participated in the YA intervention exhibited mean gains of 7-9 months on the Peabody Developmental Motor Subscales (PDMS) compared with mean gains of 3-5 months for the control group. Children in the YA intervention also exhibited significant gains on the gross motor subscale of the Vineland Teacher Rating Form (VTRF). Teachers and parents reported benefits for children not only in specific motor skills, but also kindergarten readiness skills and social/play skills. The necessity for direct and intentional instruction of motor skills, as well as the challenges of involving families in the YA program, are discussed.

Old/New Effect of Digital Memory Retrieval in Chinese Dyscalculia.

PubMed

Wang, Enguo; Du, Chenguang; Ma, Yujun

This study reports the neurophysiological and behavioral correlates of digital memory retrieval features in Chinese individuals with and without dyscalculia. A total of 18 children with dyscalculia (ages 11.5-13.5) and 18 controls were tested, and their event-related potentials were digitally recorded simultaneously with behavior measurement. Behavioral data showed that the dyscalculia group had lower hit rates and higher false rates than the control group. The electroencephalography results showed that both groups had a significant old/new effect and that this effect was greater in the control group. In the 300 to 400 ms processing stages, both groups showed significant differences in digital memory retrieval in the frontal regions. In the 400 to 500 and 500 to 600 ms epochs, the old/new effect in the control group was significantly greater than it was in the dyscalculia group at the frontal, central, and parietal regions. In the 600 to 700 ms processing stages, both groups showed significant differences in digital memory retrieval in the frontal, central, parietal, and occipital regions. These results suggest that individuals with dyscalculia exhibit impaired digital memory retrieval. Extraction failure may be an important cause of calculation difficulties.

White Phosphorus-Felt Smoke: Effects on Reproduction in the Rat

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-07-01

group exhibited unilateral anophthalmia . Four had prominent renal pelvises, three had underdeveloped testicles, one had narrow atria, and one had an...alive +Significant at p = 0.05. 4. DISCUSSION The major teratogenic effects observed in this study included one case each of unilateral anophthalmia ... anophthalmia and one had narrow atria. With only single incidences of the malformations occurring in each group ., and none in the Fj offspring from the

Exfoliative cytology of the oral mucosa in burning mouth syndrome: a cytomorphological and cytomorphometric analysis.

PubMed

Wandeur, Talita; de Moura, Sérgio Adriane Bezerra; de Medeiros, Ana Miryam Costa; Machado, Maria Ângela Naval; Alanis, Luciana Reis de Azevedo; Grégio, Ana Maria Trindade; Trevilatto, Paula Cristina; de Lima, Antonio Adilson Soares

2011-03-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate oral epithelial cells by exfoliative cytology in burning mouth syndrome (BMS). Oral smears were collected from clinically normal-appearing mucosa by liquid-based exfoliative cytology in 40 individuals (20 BMS patients and 20 healthy controls matched for age and gender) and analysed for cytological and cytomorphometric techniques. Mean values of nuclear area (NA) for experimental and control groups were, respectively, 67.52 and 55.64 μm² (p < 0.05). Cytoplasmic area (CA) showed the following mean values: 1258.0 (experimental) and 2069.0 μm² (control). Nucleus-to-cytoplasm area ratio for the experimental group was 0.07, besides the control group was 0.03 (p < 0.05). Morphologically, oral smears exhibited normal epithelial cells in both experimental and control groups. There was a significant predominance of nucleated cells of the superficial layer in the smears of BMS patients (p = 0.00001). This study revealed that oral mucosa of BMS patients exhibited significant cytomorphometric changes in the oral epithelial cells. These changes probably are associated with epithelial atrophy and a deregulated maturation process that may contribute to the oral symptoms of pain and discomfort in BMS. © 2010 The Gerodontology Society and John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Enhancing the passing moments: An educational criticism of family visits to an early childhood science exhibition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munroe, Elizabeth Ann

This educational criticism describes and interprets the nature of family visits to an early childhood science exhibition, Working Wonders, at The Science Centre in Calgary, Alberta. The specific exhibits are described and features that contributed to exhibit popularity are examined. Examples of visitors' interactions with each exhibit are given. The visit experiences of four families are described in detail and analyzed. Typical family visitors' reactions, expectations, and experiences are summarized. Because one of the mutual expectations of the granting agency, The Science Centre, and the adult visitors was that a visit to the exhibition would be educational, the family visits are examined for instances of learning and analyzed to determine the factors that influenced the learning. Constructivism forms the basis for understanding the process of learning during family visits. The analysis is supported by reference to research from the fields of museum studies, education, and environmental design. The analysis of the educational significance and potential of family visits to an early childhood exhibition leads to the conclusion that specific features may facilitate learning in such an environment. Those features are represented in a set of guidelines for the development and evaluation of early childhood exhibitions. The guidelines suggest attention must be given to the ambience of the space, the general layout of the space, the exhibits, the copy and graphics, additional programs and information, the subtle influences of the building and the staff, and the learning processes of young children, adults, and intergenerational groups. The guidelines suggest specific issues to consider to develop a space that is stimulating and memorable, responsive to the needs of the two distinct visitor groups (young children and adults), and conducive to learning.

Anaerobic glycolysis protection against 1-methy-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) toxicity in C6 glioma cells.

PubMed

Williams, Zakia R; Goodman, Carl B; Soliman, Karam F A

2007-06-01

The neurotoxin 1-methy-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP(+)) is used for its' capacity to induce Parkinsonism through its inhibitory effects on mitochondrial complex I. This inhibition disrupts cellular energy formation and aerobic glycolysis. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that the toxic effect of mitochondrial aerobic pathway inhibition with MPP(+ )can be reduced by stimulating anaerobic glycolysis using glucose supplementation. In this study, C6 Glioma cell viability was examined in the presence of different concentrations of MPP alone and with the addition of glucose. The results obtained indicate that there was a significant increase (P < 0.001) in cell viability in cells treated with glucose and MPP(+ )verses cells treated with MPP(+ )alone. Fluorometric analysis using 100 microM Rhodamine 123 indicated mitochondrial membrane potential was not restored in MPP(+ )treated cells with glucose; however, normal cell viability was confirmed using 2 microg/ml Fluorescein diacetate. This dual fluorescence indicated mitochondrial damage from MPP(+ )while glucose augmented cell survival. Further confirmation of cell survival upon damage to the mitochondria was evident in TUNEL staining. Positive staining was prominent only in MPP(+) treatment groups alone, while control and co-treated groups exhibited little to no TUNEL staining. ATP measurements of all MPP(+) treated groups exhibited a significant (P < 0.001) decrease verses control. Groups co-treated with MPP(+ )and glucose revealed a significant increase (250 microM group: P < 0.001) in ATP. It was concluded from this study that glucose supplementation was able to sustain cellular viability and ATP production through anaerobic glycolysis despite the inhibitory effect of MPP(+ )on aerobic glycolysis.

The Neural Substrates of Cognitive Control Deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorders

PubMed Central

Solomon, Marjorie; Ozonoff, Sally; Ursu, Stefan; Ravizza, Susan; Cummings, Neil; Ly, Stanford; Carter, Cameron

2009-01-01

Executive functions deficits are among the most frequently reported symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), however, there have been few functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies that investigate the neural substrates of executive functions deficits in ASDs, and only one in adolescents. The current study examined cognitive control –the ability to maintain task context online to support adaptive functioning in the face of response competition—in 22 adolescents aged 12–18 with autism spectrum disorders and 23 age, gender, and IQ matched typically developing subjects. During the cue phase of the task, where subjects must maintain information online to overcome a prepotent response tendency, typically developing subjects recruited significantly more anterior frontal (BA 10), parietal (BA 7, 40), and occipital regions (BA 18) for high control trials (25% of trials) versus low control trials (75% of trials). Both groups showed similar activation for low control cues, however the ASD group exhibited significantly less activation for high control cues. Functional connectivity analysis using time series correlation, factor analysis, and beta series correlation methods provided convergent evidence that the ASD group exhibited lower levels of functional connectivity and less network integration between frontal, parietal, and occipital regions. In the typically developing group, fronto-parietal connectivity was related to lower error rates on high control trials. In the autism group, reduced fronto-parietal connectivity was related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms. PMID:19410583

Marginal bone loss around non-submerged implants is associated with salivary microbiome during bone healing.

PubMed

Duan, Xiao-Bo; Wu, Ting-Xi; Guo, Yu-Chen; Zhou, Xue-Dong; Lei, Yi-Ling; Xu, Xin; Mo, An-Chun; Wang, Yong-Yue; Yuan, Quan

2017-06-01

Marginal bone loss during bone healing exists around non-submerged dental implants. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between different degrees of marginal bone loss during bone healing and the salivary microbiome. One hundred patients were recruited, and marginal bone loss around their implants was measured using cone beam computed tomography during a 3-month healing period. The patients were divided into three groups according to the severity of marginal bone loss. Saliva samples were collected from all subjected and were analysed using 16S MiSeq sequencing. Although the overall structure of the microbial community was not dramatically altered, the relative abundance of several taxonomic groups noticeably changed. The abundance of species in the phyla Spirochaeta and Synergistetes increased significantly as the bone loss became more severe. Species within the genus Treponema also exhibited increased abundance, whereas Veillonella, Haemophilus and Leptotrichia exhibited reduced abundances, in groups with more bone loss. Porphyromonasgingivalis, Treponemadenticola and Streptococcus intermedius were significantly more abundant in the moderate group and/or severe group. The severity of marginal bone loss around the non-submerged implant was associated with dissimilar taxonomic compositions. An increased severity of marginal bone loss was related to increased proportions of periodontal pathogenic species. These data suggest a potential role of microbes in the progression of marginal bone loss during bone healing.

MOLECULAR OXYGEN AND THE ADSORPTION OF PHENOLS - EFFECT OF FUNCTIONAL GROUPS

EPA Science Inventory

This study reveals that the presence of molecular oxygen (oxic conditions) has a significant impact on the exhibited adsorptive capacity of granular activated carbon (GAC) for several phenolic compounds. The increase in the GAC adsorptive capacity under oxic conditions results f...

Emotional Considerations in Spasmodic Dysphonia: Psychometric Quantification.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cannito, Michael P.

1991-01-01

This study examined emotional characteristics of 18 female spasmodic dysphonic subjects in comparison to matched normal controls across psychometric measures of depression, anxiety, and somatic complaints. Statistically significant differences were noted between groups for all measures and over half of the dysphonic subjects exhibited clinically…

Exploring the Predisposition of the Asian Eye to Development of Dry Eye.

PubMed

Craig, Jennifer P; Wang, Michael T M; Kim, Dabin; Lee, Jung Min

2016-07-01

To investigate the influence of eyelid shape on tear film quality, ocular surface characteristics and dry eye symptomatology by comparing Asian and Caucasian populations. Seventy-four age-matched participants were recruited in a cross-sectional study. Participants were classified into Asian single lid (ASL), Asian double lid (ADL), and Caucasian double lid (CDL) groups. Dry eye symptomatology, ocular surface characteristics, and tear film quality were evaluated in a single clinical session. Meibomian gland dropout was significantly greater in both the ASL and ADL groups than in the CDL group (all P<.05). A greater proportion of ASL and ADL participants exhibited incomplete blinking than CDL patients (all P<.05). There were no significant differences in tear film quality and dry eye symptomatology between the three groups (all P>.05). Exposed ocular surface area, lissamine green staining, and lid wiper epitheliopathy were significantly greater in the ADL group compared to the CDL group (all P<.05). The CDL group displayed significantly greater anterior blepharitis and lid telangiectasia grades compared to both ASL and ADL groups (all P<.05). A higher degree of meibomian gland dropout and incomplete blinking was observed in both Asian groups compared to the Caucasian group, potentially predisposing these groups to dry eye. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential symptomatology and functioning in borderline personality disorder across age groups.

PubMed

Frías, Álvaro; Palma, Carol; Solves, Laia; Martínez, Bárbara; Salvador, Ana

2017-12-01

There is increasing research aimed at addressing whether patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) may exhibit variations in symptomatology and functioning according to their chronological age. The current study consisted of 169 outpatients diagnosed with BPD, who were divided into four age groups as follows: 16-25 years (n = 41), 26-35 years (n = 43), 36-45 years (n = 45), and 46 and more years (n = 40). Age groups were compared for symptomatology, normal personality traits, psychiatric comorbidities, functioning, and treatment-related features. The younger group had significantly higher levels of physical/verbal aggression and suicide attempts relative to the older group. Conversely, the older group had significantly greater severity of somatization, depression, and anxiety symptoms. In addition, the older group showed significantly greater functional impairment overall and across physical/psychological domains, specifically when compared to the younger group. Overall, these findings may suggest that age-related symptoms should be considered when diagnosing BPD. Also, functional impairments should be the target interventions for older BPD patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Impulsivity across the psychosis spectrum: Correlates of cortical volume, suicidal history, and social and global function.

PubMed

Nanda, Pranav; Tandon, Neeraj; Mathew, Ian T; Padmanabhan, Jaya L; Clementz, Brett A; Pearlson, Godfrey D; Sweeney, John A; Tamminga, Carol A; Keshavan, Matcheri S

2016-01-01

Patients with psychotic disorders appear to exhibit greater impulsivity-related behaviors relative to healthy controls. However, the neural underpinning of this impulsivity remains uncertain. Furthermore, it remains unclear how impulsivity might differ or be conserved between psychotic disorder diagnoses in mechanism and manifestation. In this study, self-reported impulsivity, measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), was compared between 305 controls (HC), 139 patients with schizophrenia (SZ), 100 with schizoaffective disorder (SZA), and 125 with psychotic bipolar disorder (PBP). In each proband group, impulsivity was associated with regional cortical volumes (using FreeSurfer analysis of T1 MRI scans), suicide attempt history, Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), and Social Functioning Scale (SFS). BIS scores were found to differ significantly between participant groups, with SZA and PBP exhibiting significantly higher impulsivity than SZ, which exhibited significantly higher impulsivity than HC. BIS scores were significantly related to suicide attempt history, and they were inversely associated with GAF, SFS, and bilateral orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) volume in both SZA and PBP, but not SZ. These findings indicate that psychotic disorders, particularly those with prominent affective symptoms, are characterized by elevated self-reported impulsivity measures. Impulsivity's correlations with suicide attempt history, GAF, and SFS suggest that impulsivity may be a mediator of clinical outcome. The observed impulsivity-OFC correlations corroborate the importance of OFC deficits in impulsivity. These correlations' presence in SZA and PBP but not in SZ suggests that impulsivity may have different underlying mechanisms in affective and non-affective psychotic disorders. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Unusual presentation of hepatitis B serological markers in an Amerindian community of Venezuela with a majority of occult cases

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is characterized by the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in the absence of HBsAg in the serum of patients. The aim of this study was to characterize HBV infection among a Piaroa community, an Amerindian group which exhibits significant evidence of exposure to HBV but relatively low presence of HBsAg, and to explore the presence of OBI in this population. Results Of 150 sera, with 17% anti-HBc and 1.3% HBsAg prevalence, 70 were tested for the presence of HBV DNA. From these, 25 (36%) were found positive for HBV DNA by PCR in the core region. Two of these 25 sera were HBsAg positive, indicating an overt infection. Of the remaining 68 sera tested, 23 exhibited OBI. Of these, 13 were HBV DNA out of 25 anti-HBc positive (52%) and 10 HBV DNA positive, out of 43 anti-HBc negative (23%), with a statistical significance of p = 0.03. Viral DNA and HBsAg were present intermittently in follow up sera of 13 individuals. Sequence analysis in the core region of the amplified DNA products showed that all the strains belonged to HBV genotype F3. The OBI isolates displayed 96-100% nucleotide identity between them. One isolate exhibited the co-circulation of a wild type variant with a variant with a premature stop codon at the core protein, and a variant exhibiting a deletion of 28 amino acids. Conclusions The frequency of OBI found in this Amerindian group warrants further studies in other communities exhibiting different degrees of HBV exposure. PMID:22152023

Piracetam and vinpocetine ameliorate rotenone-induced Parkinsonism in rats.

PubMed

Zaitone, Sawsan A; Abo-Elmatty, Dina M; Elshazly, Shimaa M

2012-01-01

To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of the nootropic drugs, piracetam (PIR) and vinpocetine (VIN), in rotenone-induced Parkinsonism in rats. Sixty male rats were divided into 6 groups of 10 rats each. The groups were administered vehicle, control (rotenone, 1.5 mg/kg/48 h/6 doses, s.c.), PIR (100 and 200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and VIN (3 and 6 mg/kg/day, p.o.). The motor performance of the rats was evaluated by the open field and pole test. Striatal dopamine level, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assayed. Histopathological study of the substantia nigra was also done. Results showed that rotenone-treated rats exhibited bradykinesia and motor impairment in the open-field test. In addition, GSH level was decreased whereas MDA and TNF-α increased in striata of rotenone-treated rats as compared to vehicle-treated rats. Marked degeneration of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) neurons and depletion of striatal dopamine was also observed in the rotenone-treated rats. Treatment with PIR or VIN significantly reversed the locomotor deficits and increased striatal dopamine level. Treatment with VIN significantly (P<0.05) reduced the striatal level of MDA and GSH in comparison to rotenone group whereas TNF-α production was found to be significantly decreased in PIR group (P<0.05). VIN and PIR exhibit neuroprotective activity in rotenone-induced Parkinsonism. Hence, these nootropic agents may be considered as possible candidates in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Pulp tissue dissolution capacity of QMix 2in1 irrigation solution.

PubMed

Arslan, Dilara; Guneser, Mehmet Burak; Kustarci, Alper; Er, Kursat; Siso, Seyda Herguner

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the tissue dissolution efficacy of four root canal irrigation solutions (sodium hypochlorite [NaOCl], chlorhexidine gluconate [CHX], Octenidine [OCT], and QMix 2in1) on bovine pulp tissue. Fifty bovine pulp tissue samples, each weighing 6.55 mg, were prepared and randomly divided into four experimental groups and one control group (n = 10) according to the dissolution irrigants used: (1) 5.25% NaOCl group; (2) 2% CHX group; (3) OCT group; (4) QMix 2in1 group; and (5) control group (saline solution). These samples were then placed into special bovine dentin reservoir models and immersed for 1 h with each test solution (0.1 mL of each) at room temperature. The pulp samples were then blotted dry and weighed again. The percentage of weight loss was calculated. Statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey tests (P = 0.05). Saline solution did not dissolve the bovine pulp tissue. All groups, except OCT, dissolved pulp samples more effectively than the control group (P < 0.05). The highest tissue dissolution was observed in 5.25% NaOCl group (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the tissue-dissolving effect between QMix 2in1 and those of 2% CHX. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, NaOCl exhibited the best tissue-dissolving effect out of all solutions tested. CHX and QMix 2in1 were able to dissolve pulp tissue but less than NaOCl. OCT and saline solutions could not exhibit significantly tissue-dissolving effectiveness. This study shown that QMix 2in1 has little capacity to dissolve pulp tissue therefore used alone is not sufficient for this purpose.

Pulp tissue dissolution capacity of QMix 2in1 irrigation solution

PubMed Central

Arslan, Dilara; Guneser, Mehmet Burak; Kustarci, Alper; Er, Kursat; Siso, Seyda Herguner

2015-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the tissue dissolution efficacy of four root canal irrigation solutions (sodium hypochlorite [NaOCl], chlorhexidine gluconate [CHX], Octenidine [OCT], and QMix 2in1) on bovine pulp tissue. Materials and Methods: Fifty bovine pulp tissue samples, each weighing 6.55 mg, were prepared and randomly divided into four experimental groups and one control group (n = 10) according to the dissolution irrigants used: (1) 5.25% NaOCl group; (2) 2% CHX group; (3) OCT group; (4) QMix 2in1 group; and (5) control group (saline solution). These samples were then placed into special bovine dentin reservoir models and immersed for 1 h with each test solution (0.1 mL of each) at room temperature. The pulp samples were then blotted dry and weighed again. The percentage of weight loss was calculated. Statistically analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey tests (P = 0.05). Results: Saline solution did not dissolve the bovine pulp tissue. All groups, except OCT, dissolved pulp samples more effectively than the control group (P < 0.05). The highest tissue dissolution was observed in 5.25% NaOCl group (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the tissue-dissolving effect between QMix 2in1 and those of 2% CHX. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, NaOCl exhibited the best tissue-dissolving effect out of all solutions tested. CHX and QMix 2in1 were able to dissolve pulp tissue but less than NaOCl. OCT and saline solutions could not exhibit significantly tissue-dissolving effectiveness. This study shown that QMix 2in1 has little capacity to dissolve pulp tissue therefore used alone is not sufficient for this purpose. PMID:26430374

Landing Mechanics During Side Hopping and Crossover Hopping Maneuvers in Noninjured Women and Women With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PubMed Central

Ortiz, Alexis; Olson, Sharon; Trudelle-Jackson, Elaine; Rosario, Martin; Venegas, Heidi L.

2011-01-01

Objective To compare, landing mechanics and electromyographic activity of the lower extremities during side hopping and crossover hopping maneuvers, in noninjured women and women with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Design A case-control study. Setting A 3-dimensional motion analysis laboratory. Participants Twenty-eight young women (range, 21–35 years) (15 control subjects and 13 subjects with ACL reconstruction). Patients and Methods All participants performed a side-to-side hopping task that consisted of hopping single-legged 10 times consecutively from side to side across 2 lines marked 30 cm apart on 2 individual force plates. The task was designated as a side hopping when the hop was to the opposite side of the stance leg and as crossover hopping when the hop was toward the side of the stance leg. Main Outcome Measurements Peak hip-/knee-joint angles; peak knee extension/abduction joint moments; electromyographic studies of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, rectus femoris, and hamstring muscles; and quadriceps/hamstring co-contraction ratio were compared between the groups by means of 2 × 2 multivariate analysis of variance tests (group × maneuver). Results Noninjured women and women with ACL reconstruction exhibited similar hip-and knee-joint angles during both types of hopping. Hip-joint angles were greater during the crossover hopping in both groups, and knee-joint angles did not differ between the groups or hops. Knee-joint moments demonstrated a significant group × maneuver interaction. Greater knee extension and valgus moments were noted in the control group during crossover hopping, and greater knee abduction moments were noted in the ACL group during side hopping. Electromyographic data revealed no statistically significantly differences between the groups. Conclusions Women with ACL reconstruction exhibited the restoration of functional biomechanical movements such as hip-/knee-joint angles and lower extremity neuromuscular activation during side-to-side athletic tasks. However, not all biomechanical strategies are restored years after surgery, and women who have undergone a procedure such as ACL reconstruction may continue to exhibit knee-joint abduction moments that increase the risk of additional knee injury. PMID:21257128

Antibacterial activity, surface roughness, flexural strength, and solubility of conventional luting cements containing chlorhexidine diacetate/cetrimide mixtures.

PubMed

Korkmaz, Fatih Mehmet; Tüzüner, Tamer; Baygin, Ozgul; Buruk, Celal Kurtulus; Durkan, Rukiye; Bagis, Bora

2013-08-01

The failure of fixed dental restorations is commonly associated with caries. The use of conventional luting cements containing antibacterial agents may overcome this problem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity (ABA), surface roughness (Ra), flexural strength (FS), and solubility (SL) patterns of the conventional dental luting cements zinc phosphate (ZP), zinc polycarboxylate (PC), and glass ionomer (GIC) after the addition of 5% chlorhexidine diacetate/cetrimide (CHX+CT). Antibacterial agents with a total concentration of 5% (2.5% CHX+2.5% CT) were added to antibacterial agent-free conventional luting cement powders (ZPC, PCC, and GICC) and designated as experimental groups (ZPE, PCE, and GICE). ABA against Streptococcus mutans (SM) and Lactobacillus casei (LB) was examined by using the agar diffusion test method. Ra, FS, and SL values were obtained after storage in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann Whitney U with Bonferroni correction tests were used to test for agar diffusion (α=.05) and 2-way ANOVA and Fisher Least Significant Difference (LSD) test were used to measure Ra, FS, and SL (α=.05). The control groups exhibited limited ABA. With the exception of PCE>PCC on day 1 for SM, all experimental groups showed significantly greater and longer-lasting protection against SM and LB bacteria for up to 180 days than their controls (P<.05). Ra values decreased (ZPC>ZPE; P>.05, PCC>PCE; P<.05) except that GICE>GICC (P>.05) when compared with their individual controls. Control groups exhibited higher FS values than did the experimental groups (ZPC>ZPE; P<.05, PCC>PCE; P<.05, GICC>GICE; P>.05). The experimental groups exhibited higher solubilities than did their controls in the ZPC (P>.05) and GICC groups (P<.05) but were lower in PCC group (P<.05). Incorporating a 5% CHX+CT mixture into conventional dental luting cements and altering their Ra, FS, and SL values may provide greater antibacterial protection against SM and LB. Copyright © 2013 The Editorial Council of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

A new prototype of an electronic jet-ventilator and its humidification system

PubMed Central

Kraincuk, Paul; Kepka, Anton; Ihra, Gerald; Schabernig, Christa; Aloy, Alexander

1999-01-01

Background: Adequate humidification in long-term jet ventilation is a critical aspect in terms of clinical safety. Aim: To assess a prototype of an electronic jet-ventilator and its humidification system. Methods: Forty patients with respiratory insufficiency were randomly allocated to one of four groups. The criterion for inclusion in this study was respiratory insufficiency exhibiting a Murray score above 2. The four groups of patients were ventilated with three different respirators and four different humidification systems. Patients in groups A and B received superimposed high-frequency jet ventilation (SHFJV) by an electronic jet-ventilator either with (group A) or without (group B) an additional humidification system. Patients in group C received high-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) by a pneumatic high-frequency respirator, using a hot water humidifier for warming and moistening the inspiration gas. Patients in group D received conventional mechanical ventilation using a standard intensive care unit respirator with a standard humidification system. SHFJV and HFPV were used for a period of 100 h (4days). Results: A significantly low inspiration gas temperature was noted in patients in group B, initially (27.2 ± 2.5°C) and after 2 days (28.0 ± 1.6°C) (P < 0.05). The percentage of relative humidity of the inspiration gas in patients in group B was also initially significantly low (69.8 ± 4.1%; P < 0.05) but rose to an average of 98 ± 2.8% after 2 h. The average percentage across all four groups amounted to 98 ± 0.4% after 2 h. Inflammation of the tracheal mucosa was found in patients in group B and the mucosal injury score (MIS) was significantly higher than in all the other groups. Patients in groups A, C and D showed no severe evidence of airway damage, exhibiting adequate values of relative humidity and temperature of the inspired gas. Conclusion: The problems of humidification associated with jet ventilation can be fully prevented by using this new jet-ventilator. These data were sustained by nondeteriorating MIS values at the end of the 4-day study period in groups A, C and D. PMID:11056732

Cariogenicity features of Streptococcus mutans in presence of rubusoside.

PubMed

Chu, Jinpu; Zhang, Tieting; He, Kexin

2016-05-11

One promising way of reducing caries is by using sucrose substitutes in food. rubusoside is a prototype sweet substance isolated from the leaves of the plant Rubrus suavissimus S. Lee. (Rosaceae), and is rated sweeter than sucrose. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of rubusoside on Streptococcus mutans growth, acidogenicity, and adherence to glass in vitro. The effects of rubusoside on the growth and glass surface adhering of Streptococcus mutans were investigated by measuring the optical density of the culture at 540 nm with a spectrophotometer. Rubusoside influence on Streptococcus mutans acidogenicity was determined by measuring the pH of the culture. Sucrose, glucose, maltose, fructose and xylitol were designed to compare with rubusoside. S. mutans growth in the rubusoside-treated group was significantly lower than that in the sucrose, glucose, maltose and fructose groups (p < 0.05) except for xylitol group (p > 0.05). Sucrose-treated S. mutans exhibited the highest adherence to glass, and rubusoside-treated S. mutans exhibited the lowest. S. mutans adherence to a glass surface and acidogenicity with sucrose were significantly reduced by rubusoside. Rubusoside may have some potential as a non-cariogenic, non-caloric sweetener.

Anticancer and apoptosis-inducing effects of quercetin in vitro and in vivo

PubMed Central

Hashemzaei, Mahmoud; Far, Amin Delarami; Yari, Arezoo; Heravi, Reza Entezari; Tabrizian, Kaveh; Taghdisi, Seyed Mohammad; Sadegh, Sarvenaz Ekhtiari; Tsarouhas, Konstantinos; Kouretas, Dimitrios; Tzanakakis, George; Nikitovic, Dragana; Anisimov, Nikita Yurevich; Spandidos, Demetrios A.; Tsatsakis, Aristides M.; Rezaee, Ramin

2017-01-01

The present study focused on the elucidation of the putative anticancer potential of quercetin. The anticancer activity of quercetin at 10, 20, 40, 80 and 120 µM was assessed in vitro by MMT assay in 9 tumor cell lines (colon carcinoma CT-26 cells, prostate adenocarcinoma LNCaP cells, human prostate PC3 cells, pheocromocytoma PC12 cells, estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer MCF-7 cells, acute lymphoblastic leukemia MOLT-4 T-cells, human myeloma U266B1 cells, human lymphoid Raji cells and ovarian cancer CHO cells). Quercetin was found to induce the apoptosis of all the tested cancer cell lines at the utilized concentrations. Moreover, quercetin significantly induced the apoptosis of the CT-26, LNCaP, MOLT-4 and Raji cell lines, as compared to control group (P<0.001), as demonstrated by Annexin V/PI staining. In in vivo experiments, mice bearing MCF-7 and CT-26 tumors exhibited a significant reduction in tumor volume in the quercetin-treated group as compared to the control group (P<0.001). Taken together, quercetin, a naturally occurring compound, exhibits anticancer properties both in vivo and in vitro. PMID:28677813

Effects of a dragonfly (Anax i.) homeopathic remedy on learning, memory and cell morphology in mice.

PubMed

Mutlu, Oguz; Ulak, Guner; Kokturk, Sibel; Komsuoglu Celikyurt, Ipek; Tanyeri, Pelin; Akar, Furuzan; Erden, Faruk

2016-02-01

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine in which uses highly diluted preparations that are believed to cause healthy people to exhibit symptoms similar to those exhibited by patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dragonfly (Anax imperator, Anax i.) on learning and memory in naive mice using the Morris water maze (MWM) test; moreover, the effects of dragonfly on MK-801-induced cognitive dysfunction were evaluated. Male balb-c mice were treated with dragonfly (30C and 200C) or MK-801 (0.2 mg/kg) alone or concurrently (n = 10). Dragonfly (D) and MK-801 were administered subchronically for 6 days intraperitoneally 60 min and 30 min, respectively, before the daily performance of the MWM test. This study revealed that in the familiarization session and first session of the MWM test, Anax i. D30 significantly decreased escape latency compared to the control group, although MK-801, D30 and D200 significantly increased escape latency at the end of five acquisition sessions. Anax i. combined with dizocilpine maleate (MK-801) also significantly decreased escape latency in the familiarization session and first session of the MWM test, although this combination increased escape latency compared to the MK-801 alone group at the end of the test. Time spent in escape platform's quadrant in the probe trial significantly decreased while mean distance to platform significantly increased in MK-801, D30 and D200 groups. In the MWM test, Anax i. combined with MK-801 significantly decreased speed of the animals compared to the MK-801 alone group. General cell morphology was disturbed in the MK-801 group while D30 and D200 seemed to improve cell damage in the MK-801 group. These results suggest that the homeopathic Anax i. can impair learning acquisition and reference memory, and it has beneficial effects on disturbed cell morphology. Copyright © 2015 The Faculty of Homeopathy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thymidylate Synthase Gene Polymorphism Affects the Response to Preoperative 5-Fluorouracil Chemoradiation Therapy in Patients With Rectal Cancer

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

Hur, Hyuk; Kang, Jeonghyun; Kim, Nam Kyu, E-mail: namkyuk@yuhs.ac

2011-11-01

Purpose: This study aims to correlate thymidylate synthase (TS) gene polymorphisms with the tumor response to preoperative 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in patients with rectal cancer. Methods and Materials: Forty-four patients with rectal cancer treated with 5-FU-based preoperative CRT were prospectively enrolled in this study. Thymidylate synthase expression and TS gene polymorphisms were evaluated in tumor obtained before preoperative CRT and were correlated with the pathologic response, as assessed by histopathologic staging (pTNM) and tumor regression grade. Results: Patients exhibited 2R/3R and 3R/3R tandem repeat polymorphisms in the TS gene. With regard to TS expression in these genotypes, 2R/3RCmore » and 3RC/3RC were defined as the low-expression group and 2R/3RG, 3RC/3RG, and 3RG/3RG as the high-expression group. There was no significant correlation between TS expression and tumor response. There was no significant difference in the tumor response between patients homozygous for 3R/3R and patients heterozygous for 2R/3R. However, 13 of 14 patients in the low-expression group with a G>C single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (2R/3RC [n = 5] or 3RC/3RC [n = 9]) exhibited a significantly greater tumor downstaging rate, as compared with only 12 of 30 patients in the high-expression group without the SNP (2R/3RG [n = 10], 3RC/3RG [n = 9], or 3RG/3RG [n = 11]) (p = 0.001). The nodal downstaging rate was also significantly greater in this low-expression group, as compared with the high-expression group (12 of 14 vs. 14 of 30, p = 0.014). However, there was no significant difference in the tumor regression grade between these groups. Conclusions: This study suggests that SNPs within the TS enhancer region affect the tumor response to preoperative 5-FU-based CRT in rectal cancer.« less

Influence of remineralizing gels on bleached enamel microhardness in different time intervals.

PubMed

Borges, Alessandra Bühler; Yui, Karen Cristina Kazue; D'Avila, Thaís Corrêa; Takahashi, Camila Lurie; Torres, Carlos Rocha Gomes; Borges, Alexandre Luis Souto

2010-01-01

This study evaluated the influence of bleaching gel pH, the effect of applying remineralizing gels after bleaching and the effect of artificial saliva on enamel microhardness. Seventy bovine incisors were divided into three groups: Group 1 (n=10) received no bleaching procedure (control); Group 2 was bleached with a 35% hydrogen peroxide neutral gel (n=30) and Group 3 was bleached with a 35% hydrogen peroxide acid gel (n=30). Each experimental group was subdivided into three groups (n=10) according to the post-bleaching treatment: storage in artificial saliva, application of a fluoride gel and application of a combination of calcium and fluoride gel. The specimens were stored in artificial saliva for 7, 15 and 30 days and enamel microhardness was evaluated. The Vickers microhardness data were analyzed by three-way RM ANOVA, which revealed a significant difference only for treatment factor. The Tukey's test showed that the groups bleached followed by no additional treatment exhibited microhardness means significantly lower than the bleached groups treated with remineralizing gels. The Dunnet's test showed a significant difference only for the group bleached with acid gel without remineralizing treatment compared to the control group measured immediately after bleaching. It was concluded that acid bleaching gel significantly reduced enamel microhardness and that use of remineralizing gels after bleaching can significantly enhance the microhardness of bleached enamel.

Preparing Students in Human Service Professions for Interdisciplinary Practice.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Knauss, Linda K.; Kramer, Lisa G.; Linn, Margaret Inman; Silver, Paula T.; Soliman, Hussein H.; Wellmon, Robert H.

2003-01-01

Presents an evaluation pf a training model that introduces graduate students from the professions of clinical psychology, education, physical therapy, and social work to interdisciplinary practice. Results indicate that, when compared with a control group, students who participated in the training model exhibited significant differences in…

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

PubMed

Kim, Ji-Han; Ju, Min-Gu; Yeon, Su-Jung; Hong, Go-Eun; Park, WooJoon; Lee, Chi-Ho

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 Fe(2+) and Ca(2+) 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.

The impact of signal-to-noise ratio on contextual cueing in children and adults.

PubMed

Yang, Yingying; Merrill, Edward C

2015-04-01

Contextual cueing refers to a form of implicit spatial learning where participants incidentally learn to associate a target location with its repeated spatial context. Successful contextual learning produces an efficient visual search through familiar environments. Despite the fact that children exhibit the basic ability of implicit spatial learning, their general effectiveness in this form of learning can be compromised by other development-dependent factors. Learning to extract useful information (signal) in the presence of various amounts of irrelevant or distracting information (noise) characterizes one of the most important changes that occur with cognitive development. This research investigated whether signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) affects contextual cueing differently in children and adults. S/N was operationally defined as the ratio of repeated versus new displays encountered over time. Three ratio conditions were created: high (100%), medium (67%), and low (33%) conditions. Results suggested no difference in the acquisition of contextual learning effects in the high and medium conditions across three age groups (6- to 8-year-olds, 10- to 12-year-olds, and young adults). However, a significant developmental difference emerged in the low S/N condition. As predicted, adults exhibited significant contextual cueing effects, whereas older children showed marginally significant contextual cueing and younger children did not show cueing effects. Group differences in the ability to exhibit implicit contextual learning under low S/N conditions and the implications of this difference are discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ultrasound elastography in diagnosis and follow-up for patients with sialolithiasis.

PubMed

Reichel, Christoph A; Vincek, Teresa; Gellrich, Donata; Schrötzlmair, Florian; Clevert, Dirk; Zengel, Pamela

2018-05-03

This study aims to answer whether acoustic radiation force impulse imaging (ARFI) can reasonably be employed in initial examination and follow-up during therapy in patients with sialolithiasis, one of the most common non-malignant disorders of the salivary glands. Mechanical tissue properties of affected and contralateral healthy salivary glands were analyzed by ARFI in 129 patients with sialolithiasis. In different subgroup analyses, ARFI shear wave velocity values were compared between healthy and diseased submandibular or parotid glands, salivary glands with calculi exhibiting different sizes, as well as before and after therapy. The patients' symptoms were evaluated by a standardized questionnaire. The t-test (2 groups) or the One-way ANOVA test (>2 groups) was used for the estimation of stochastic probability in intergroup comparisons. Submandibular or parotid glands affected by sialolithiasis were found to exhibit significant lower ARFI values as compared to the healthy contralateral glands in the same individuals. ARFI values in submandibular glands with a single calculus of more than 5 mm in diameter or with multiple calculi as well as in parotid glands with calculi exhibiting diameters of more than 5 mm were significantly higher as compared to the respective healthy contralateral glands. No significant differences in ARFI values of affected salivary glands were detected between patients with low or high symptom perception. ARFI provides an easy, quick and reliable diagnostic tool for the objective assessment of disease severity and progression in patients with sialolithiasis that can simply be implemented in pre-existing ultrasound protocols.

Variations in biochemical values for common laboratory tests: a comparison among multi-ethnic Israeli women cohort.

PubMed

Birk, Ruth; Heifetz, Eliyahu M

2018-04-28

Biochemical laboratory values are an essential tool in medical diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up; however, they are known to vary between populations. Establishment of ethnicity-adjusted reference values is recommended by health organizations. To investigate the ethnicity element in biochemical lab values studying women of different ethnic groups. Biochemical lab values (n = 27) of 503 adult Israeli women of three ethnicities (Jewish Ashkenazi, Jewish Sephardic, and Bedouin Arab) attending a single medical center were analyzed. Biochemical data were extracted from medical center records. Ethnic differences of laboratory biochemicals were studied using ANCOVA to analyze the center of the distribution as well as quartile regression analysis to analyze the upper and lower limits, both done with an adjustment for age. Significant ethnic differences were found in almost half (n = 12) of the biochemical laboratory tests. Ashkenazi Jews exhibited significantly higher mean values compared to Bedouins in most of the biochemical tests, including albumin, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, cholesterol, cholesterol LDL and HDL, cholesterol LDL calc., folic acid, globulin, and iron saturation, while the Bedouins exhibited the highest mean values in the creatinine and triglycerides. For most of these tests, Sephardic Jews exhibited biochemical mean levels in between the two other groups. Compared to Ashkenazi Jews, Sephardic Jews had a significant shift to lower values in cholesterol LDL. Ethnic subpopulations have distinct distributions in biochemical laboratory test values, which should be taken into consideration in medical practice enabling precision medicine.

Pro-inflammatory cytokines expression increases following low- and high-magnitude cyclic loading of lumbar ligaments

PubMed Central

D’Ambrosia, Peter; King, Karen; Davidson, Bradley; Zhou, Bing He; Lu, Yun

2010-01-01

Repetitive or overuse disorders of the lumbar spine affect the lives of workers and athletes. We hypothesize that repetitive anterior lumbar flexion–extension under low or high load will result in significantly elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines expression several hours post-activity. High loads will exhibit significantly higher expression than low loads. Lumbar spine of in vivo feline was subjected to cyclic loading at 0.25 Hz for six 10-min periods with 10 min of rest in between. One group was subjected to a low peak load of 20 N, whereas the second group to a high peak load of 60 N. Following a 7-h post-loading rest, the supraspinous ligaments of L-3/4, L-4/5 and L-5/6 and the unstimulated T-10/11 were excised for mRNA analysis and IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNFα and TGFβ1 pro-inflammatory cytokines expression. Creep (laxity) developed in the lumbar spine during the loading and the subsequent 7 h of rest was calculated. A two-way mixed model ANOVA was used to assess difference in each cytokines expression between the two groups and control. Tukey HSD post hoc analysis delineated specific significant effects. Significance was set at 0.05. Low and high-load groups exhibited development of creep throughout the cyclic loading period and gradual recovery throughout the 7-h rest period. Residual creep of 24.8 and 30.2% were present in the low and high-load groups, respectively, 7-h post-loading. Significant increases in expression of all cytokines measured relative to control were obtained for supraspinous ligaments from both low and high-load magnitudes. IL-6, IL-8 and TGFβ1 expression in the high-load group were significantly higher relative to the low-load group. Significant increases in cytokines expression indicating tissue inflammation are observed several hours post-repetitive lumbar flexion–extension regardless of the load magnitude applied. Repetitive occupational and athletic activity, regardless of the load applied, may be associated with the potential of developing acute inflammatory conditions that may convert to chronic inflammation if the viscoelastic tissues are further exposed to repetitive activity over long periods. Appropriate rest periods are a relevant preventive measure. PMID:20336330

Ocular dimensions, corneal thickness, and corneal curvature in quarter horses with hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia.

PubMed

Badial, Peres R; Cisneros-Àlvarez, Luis Emiliano; Brandão, Cláudia Valéria S; Ranzani, José Joaquim T; Tomaz, Mayana A R V; Machado, Vania M; Borges, Alexandre S

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to compare ocular dimensions, corneal curvature, and corneal thickness between horses affected with hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA) and unaffected horses. Five HERDA-affected quarter horses and five healthy control quarter horses were used. Schirmer's tear test, tonometry, and corneal diameter measurements were performed in both eyes of all horses prior to ophthalmologic examinations. Ultrasonic pachymetry was performed to measure the central, temporal, nasal, dorsal, and ventral corneal thicknesses in all horses. B-mode ultrasound scanning was performed on both eyes of each horse to determine the dimensions of the ocular structures and to calculate the corneal curvature. Each corneal region examined in this study was thinner in the affected group compared with the healthy control group. However, significant differences in corneal thickness were only observed for the central and dorsal regions. HERDA-affected horses exhibited significant increases in corneal curvature and corneal diameter compared with unaffected animals. The ophthalmologic examinations revealed mild corneal opacity in one eye of one affected horse and in both eyes of three affected horses. No significant between-group differences were observed for Schirmer's tear test, intraocular pressure, or ocular dimensions. Hereditary equine regional dermal asthenia-affected horses exhibit decreased corneal thickness in several regions of the cornea, increased corneal curvature, increased corneal diameter, and mild corneal opacity. Additional research is required to determine whether the increased corneal curvature significantly impacts the visual accuracy of horses with HERDA. © 2014 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Speech summer camp for treating articulation disorders in cleft palate patients.

PubMed

Pamplona, Carmen; Ysunza, Antonio; Patiño, Carmeluza; Ramírez, Elena; Drucker, Mónica; Mazón, Juán J

2005-03-01

Compensatory articulation disorder (CAD) severely affects speech intelligibility of cleft palate children. CAD must be treated with speech therapy. Children can manage articulation better when they use language in event contexts such as every day routines. The purpose of this paper is to study and compare two modalities of speech intervention in cleft palate children with associated CAD. The first modality is a conventional approach providing speech therapy in 1-h sessions, twice a week. The second modality is a speech summer camp in which children received therapy 4h per day, 5 days a week for a period of 3 weeks. We were aimed to determine if a speech summer camp could significantly enhance articulation in CP children with CAD. Forty-five children with repaired cleft palates who exhibited CAD were studied. A matched control group of 45 children with repaired cleft palate who also exhibited CAD were identified. The patients included in the first group attended a speech summer camp for 3 weeks. The matched control subjects included in the second group received speech therapy aimed to correct CAD twice per-week in 1-h sessions. At the onset of either the summer camp or the speech therapy period, the severity of CAD was evenly distributed with non-significant differences across both groups of patients (p > 0.05). After the summer camp (3 weeks) or 12 months of speech therapy sessions at a frequency of twice per-week, both groups of patients showed a significant decrease in the severity of their CAD (p < 0.05). However, when the distribution of the severity of CAD was compared at the end of the summer camp or the speech therapy period, non-significant differences were found between both groups of patients (p > 0.05). A speech summer camp is a valid and efficient method for providing speech therapy in cleft palate children with compensatory articulation disorder.

Fortifying the Bone-Implant Interface Part 2: An In Vivo Evaluation of 3D-Printed and TPS-Coated Triangular Implants.

PubMed

MacBarb, Regina F; Lindsey, Derek P; Woods, Shane A; Lalor, Peggy A; Gundanna, Mukund I; Yerby, Scott A

2017-01-01

Minimally invasive surgical fusion of the sacroiliac (SI) joint using machined solid triangular titanium plasma spray (TPS) coated implants has demonstrated positive clinical outcomes in SI joint pain patients. Additive manufactured (AM), i.e. 3D-printed, fenestrated triangular titanium implants with porous surfaces and bioactive agents, such as nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) or autograft, may further optimize bony fixation and subsequent biomechanical stability. A bilateral ovine distal femoral defect model was used to evaluate the cancellous bone-implant interfaces of TPS-coated and AM implants. Four implant groups (n=6/group/time-point) were included: 1)TPS-coated, 2)AM, 3)AM+HA, and 4)AM+Autograft. The bone-implant interfaces of 6- and 12-week specimens were investigated via radiographic, biomechanical, and histomorphometric methods. Imaging showed peri-implant bone formation around all implants. Push-out testing demonstrated forces greater than 2500 N, with no significant differences among groups. While TPS implants failed primarily at the bone-implant interface, AM groups failed within bone ~2-3mm away from implant surfaces. All implants exhibited bone ongrowth, with no significant differences among groups. AM implants had significantly more bone ingrowth into their porous surfaces than TPS-coated implants ( p <0.0001). Of the three AM groups, AM+Auto implants had the greatest bone ingrowth into the porous surface and through their core ( p <0.002). Both TPS and AM implants exhibited substantial bone ongrowth and ingrowth, with additional bone through growth into the AM implants' core. Overall, AM implants experienced significantly more bone infiltration compared to TPS implants. While HA-coating did not further enhance results, the addition of autograft fostered greater osteointegration for AM implants. Additive manufactured implants with a porous surface provide a highly interconnected porous surface that has comparatively greater surface area for bony integration. Results suggest this may prove advantageous toward promoting enhanced biomechanical stability compared to TPS-coated implants for SI joint fusion procedures.

Effects of Vernonia cinerea on reproductive performance in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Pomjunya, Atchariya; Ratthanophart, Jasada; Fungfuang, Wirasak

2017-03-23

The present study investigated the effects of Vernonia cinerea (VC) on the reproductive function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. Six-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: group 1, normal control rats; group 2, diabetic untreated rats; group 3, diabetic rats treated with VC (10 mg/kg); and group 4, diabetic rats treated with VC (40 mg/kg). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg). All animals were treated for 30 consecutive days. Body weight, blood glucose, food intake, epididymal sperm parameters, testicular microstructure and serum testosterone levels were evaluated. VC treatment significantly restored the sperm motility and testosterone concentration, and decreased the testicular histopathological changes in DM rats. Moreover, high-dose VC exhibited an antidibetic activity and significantly improved the sperm count. In conclusion, we found, for the first time, that administration of VC significantly restored the testicular function and testosterone concentration in diabetic male rats.

Effects of Vernonia cinerea on reproductive performance in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

PubMed Central

POMJUNYA, Atchariya; RATTHANOPHART, Jasada; FUNGFUANG, Wirasak

2017-01-01

The present study investigated the effects of Vernonia cinerea (VC) on the reproductive function in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. Six-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: group 1, normal control rats; group 2, diabetic untreated rats; group 3, diabetic rats treated with VC (10 mg/kg); and group 4, diabetic rats treated with VC (40 mg/kg). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg). All animals were treated for 30 consecutive days. Body weight, blood glucose, food intake, epididymal sperm parameters, testicular microstructure and serum testosterone levels were evaluated. VC treatment significantly restored the sperm motility and testosterone concentration, and decreased the testicular histopathological changes in DM rats. Moreover, high-dose VC exhibited an antidibetic activity and significantly improved the sperm count. In conclusion, we found, for the first time, that administration of VC significantly restored the testicular function and testosterone concentration in diabetic male rats. PMID:28190818

Novel Approaches for Targeting Antiviral Agents in the Treatment of Arena-, Bunya-, Flavi-, and Retroviral

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-01

An additional group of mice was injected with Propionibacterium acnes (70 mg/kg) as a positive control. As illustrated in Table 5 no significant...macrophage cytotoxicity was observed in any of the groups. Macrophages from mice injected with P. acnes exhibited the expectected anti-tumor cytotoxic...peritoneal macrophages cytotoxic. In contrast P. acnes was highly effective. C.3.13 Peritoneal exudate cell phagocytosis following treatment with free or

Conceptions of learning and approaches to studying among White and ethnic minority students in distance education.

PubMed

Richardson, John T E

2010-12-01

The attainment of White students at UK institutions of higher education tends to be higher than that of students from other ethnic groups, but the causes of this are unclear. This study compared White students and students from other ethnic groups in their conceptions of learning, their approaches to studying, and their academic attainment. A stratified sample of 1,146 White students and 1,146 students from other ethnic groups taking courses by distance learning with the UK Open University. The Mental Models section of the Inventory of Learning Styles and the Revised Approaches to Studying Inventory were administered in a postal survey. The students' questionnaire scores were contaminated by response bias, which varied across different ethnic groups. When adjusted to control for response bias, the scores on the two questionnaires shared 37.2% of their variance and made a significant contribution to predicting the students' attainment. White students were more likely to exhibit a meaning-directed learning pattern, whereas Asian and Black students were more likely to exhibit a reproduction-directed learning pattern. However, the variation in attainment across different ethnic groups remained significant when their questionnaire scores and prior qualifications were taken into account. There is a strong relationship between students' conceptions of learning and their approaches to studying, and variations in conceptions of learning in different ethnic groups give rise to variations in approaches to studying. However, factors other than prior qualifications and conceptions of learning are responsible for variation in attainment across different ethnic groups.

The effect of cold-light-activated bleaching treatment on enamel surfaces in vitro

PubMed Central

Shi, Xin-Chang; Ma, He; Zhou, Jing-Lin; Li, Wei

2012-01-01

This in vitro study aims to evaluate the crystal and surface microstructure of dental enamel after cold-light bleaching treatment. Twelve sound human premolars were cross-split into four specimens, namely, mesio-buccal (Group LP), disto-buccal (Group P), mesio-lingual (Group NP) and disto-lingual (Group L) specimens. These four groups were treated using the standard cold-light bleaching procedure, a bleaching agent, a peroxide-free bleaching agent and cold-light, respectively. Before and after treatment, all specimens were analyzed by high-resolution, micro-area X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Using a spectrometer, tooth color of all specimens was measured before and after treatment. The phase of the enamel crystals was identified as hydroxyapatite and carbonated hydroxyapatite. After treatment, specimens in Groups LP and P showed significantly weaker X-ray diffraction peaks, significant reduction in crystal size and crystallinity, significant increase in L* but decrease in a* and b*, and obvious alterations in the surface morphology. However, specimens in Groups NP and L did not show any significant changes. The cold-light bleaching treatment leads to demineralization in the enamel surface. The acidic peroxide-containing bleaching agent was the major cause of demineralization, whereas cold-light did not exhibit significant increase or decrease effect on this demineralization. PMID:23258380

Allegation of ethnic minorities from 1993-2008: an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) study.

PubMed

Arango-Lasprilla, Juan Carlos; Ketchum, Jessica M; Hurley, Jessica; Getachew, Almaz M; Gary, Kelli Williams

2014-01-01

Approximately 25% of working-aged Americans with disabilities work full or part time, yet still face discrimination despite the passing of the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) over 20 years ago. To determine if the proportion of allegations of ADA Title I workplace discrimination with merit closed at any year between 1993 and 2008 differs among Whites, African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians; to determine if there was a change over time from 1993 to 2008 in merit closure rate within each race/ethnicity group; and to determine whether changes over time between 1993 and 2008 in the merit closure rate differ among the race/ethnicity groups. Logistic regression was used for this cross-sectional panel study to model the merit closure rate for each ethnic group from 1993 to 2008 using 318,587 charging parties from the EEOC database. All ethnic groups exhibited significant changes over time in the merit closure rate. There were significant differences in the closure rates among the race/ethnicity groups specifically at closure years 1995-2000, 2002, 2003, and 2006. Finally, there was evidence that the trends in merit closure rates over time differed significantly among the race/ethnicity groups. There was significant evidence that the proportion of claims closed with merit was significantly different among the racial/ethnicity groups.

Sericins exhibit ROS-scavenging, anti-tyrosinase, anti-elastase, and in vitro immunomodulatory activities.

PubMed

Chlapanidas, Theodora; Faragò, Silvio; Lucconi, Giulia; Perteghella, Sara; Galuzzi, Marta; Mantelli, Melissa; Avanzini, Maria Antonietta; Tosca, Marta Cecilia; Marazzi, Mario; Vigo, Daniele; Torre, Maria Luisa; Faustini, Massimo

2013-07-01

Some biological properties of Bombyx mori sericins from twenty strains were investigated, fourteen fed with artificial diet, two with fresh mulberry leaves and four with both diets. Sericin exhibited ROS-scavenging, anti-tyrosinase and anti-elastase properties, the strain significantly influenced these properties, while diet only influenced the anti-tyrosinase activity. Sericins were clustered into 5 groups and one sericin from each group was further studied: sericins showed anti-proliferative activity on in vitro stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells; some strains decreased in vitro secretion of IFNγ, while no effects were observed on TNFα and IL10 release. Therefore, a mixture of sericins extracted from the most promising strains may be useful for dermatological and cosmetic use. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hawthorn Fruit Extract Elevates Expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and Improves Lipid Profiles in Ovariectomized Rats

PubMed Central

Yoo, Jeong-Hyun; Liu, Yanan; Kim, Hyun-Sook

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) extract on the lipid profiles and antioxidant properties in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. After ovariectomy, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: the non-OVX control (Sham), the OVX-control (OVX), the OVX + 100 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OL), and the OVX + 200 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OH). The final body weights of the OVX group were significantly increased, but the increment was significantly decreased in hawthorn groups (p < 0.05). The serum total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were significantly elevated in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups showed a significant decrease in these levels (p < 0.05). The hepatic triglyceride (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced in the hawthorn groups compared with the OVX group (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly decreased in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups exhibited a significant increase in expression (p < 0.05). The protein expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and GPx were lower in the OVX group than the Sham group (p < 0.05). The oral administration of hawthorn extract reversed the suppression of protein levels. These results suggest that hawthorn extract could have protective effects in OVX rats by improving lipid profiles, decreasing oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant defense system. PMID:27187458

Hawthorn Fruit Extract Elevates Expression of Nrf2/HO-1 and Improves Lipid Profiles in Ovariectomized Rats.

PubMed

Yoo, Jeong-Hyun; Liu, Yanan; Kim, Hyun-Sook

2016-05-13

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) extract on the lipid profiles and antioxidant properties in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. After ovariectomy, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: the non-OVX control (Sham), the OVX-control (OVX), the OVX + 100 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OL), and the OVX + 200 mg/kg b.w. of hawthorn extract (OH). The final body weights of the OVX group were significantly increased, but the increment was significantly decreased in hawthorn groups (p < 0.05). The serum total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were significantly elevated in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups showed a significant decrease in these levels (p < 0.05). The hepatic triglyceride (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced in the hawthorn groups compared with the OVX group (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were significantly decreased in the OVX group, whereas the hawthorn groups exhibited a significant increase in expression (p < 0.05). The protein expressions of Nrf2, HO-1, and GPx were lower in the OVX group than the Sham group (p < 0.05). The oral administration of hawthorn extract reversed the suppression of protein levels. These results suggest that hawthorn extract could have protective effects in OVX rats by improving lipid profiles, decreasing oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant defense system.

Parent-Child Joint Picture-Book Reading among Children with ADHD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leonard, Melinda A.; Lorch, Elizabeth P.; Milich, Richard; Hagans, Neomia

2009-01-01

Objective: Children with AD/HD exhibit two disparate areas of difficulty: disrupted interactions with parents and significant problems in story comprehension. This study links these two difficulties by examining parent-child joint picture-book reading to determine whether there were diagnostic group differences in parent and child storytelling.…

Learning and memory performance in breast cancer survivors 2 to 6 years post-treatment: the role of encoding versus forgetting.

PubMed

Root, James C; Andreotti, Charissa; Tsu, Loretta; Ellmore, Timothy M; Ahles, Tim A

2016-06-01

Our previous retrospective analysis of clinically referred breast cancer survivors' performance on learning and memory measures found a primary weakness in initial encoding of information into working memory with intact retention and recall of this same information at a delay. This suggests that survivors may misinterpret cognitive lapses as being due to forgetting when, in actuality, they were not able to properly encode this information at the time of initial exposure. Our objective in this study was to replicate and extend this pattern of performance to a research sample to increase the generalizability of this finding in a sample in which subjects were not clinically referred for cognitive issues. We contrasted learning and memory performance between breast cancer survivors on endocrine therapy 2 to 6 years post-treatment with age- and education-matched healthy controls. We then stratified lower- and higher-performing breast cancer survivors to examine specific patterns of learning and memory performance. Contrasts were generated for four aggregate visual and verbal memory variables from the California Verbal Learning Test-2 (CVLT-2) and the Brown Location Test (BLT): Single-trial Learning: Trial 1 performance, Multiple-trial Learning: Trial 5 performance, Delayed Recall: Long-delay Recall performance, and Memory Errors: False-positive errors. As predicted, breast cancer survivors' performance as a whole was significantly lower on Single-trial Learning than the healthy control group but exhibited no significant difference in Delayed Recall. In the secondary analysis contrasting lower- and higher-performing survivors on cognitive measures, the same pattern of lower Single-trial Learning performance was exhibited in both groups, with the additional finding of significantly weaker Multiple-trial Learning performance in the lower-performing breast cancer group and intact Delayed Recall performance in both groups. As with our earlier finding of weaker initial encoding with intact recall in a cohort of clinically referred breast cancer survivors, our results indicate this same profile in a research sample of breast cancer survivors. Further, when the breast cancer group was stratified by lower and higher performance, both groups exhibited significantly lower performance on initial encoding, with more pronounced encoding weakness in the lower-performing group. As in our previous research, survivors did not lose successfully encoded information over longer delays, either in the lower- or higher-performing group, again arguing against memory decay in survivors. The finding of weaker initial encoding of information together with intact delayed recall in survivors points to specific treatment interventions in rehabilitation of cognitive dysfunction. The finding of weaker initial encoding of information together with intact delayed recall in survivors points to specific treatment interventions in rehabilitation of cognitive dysfunction and is discussed.

The Associations Between Smoking Habits and Serum Triglyceride or Hemoglobin A1c Levels Differ According to Visceral Fat Accumulation.

PubMed

Koda, Michiko; Kitamura, Itsuko; Okura, Tomohiro; Otsuka, Rei; Ando, Fujiko; Shimokata, Hiroshi

2016-01-01

Whether smokers and former smokers have worse lipid profiles or glucose levels than non-smokers remains unclear. The subjects were 1152 Japanese males aged 42 to 81 years. The subjects were divided according to their smoking habits (nonsmokers, former smokers, and current smokers) and their visceral fat area (VFA) (<100 cm(2) and ≥100 cm(2)). The serum triglyceride (TG) levels of 835 males were assessed. In the VFA ≥100 cm(2) group, a significantly greater proportion of current smokers (47.3%) exhibited TG levels of ≥150 mg/dL compared with former smokers (36.4%) and non-smokers (18.8%). The difference in TG level distribution between former smokers and non-smokers was also significant. However, among the subjects with VFA of <100 cm(2), the TG levels of the three smoking habit groups did not differ. The serum hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels of 877 males were also assessed. In the VFA <100 cm(2) group, significantly higher proportions of current smokers (17.9%) and former smokers (14.9%) demonstrated HbA1c levels of ≥5.6% compared with non-smokers (6.3%). In contrast, in the VFA ≥100 cm(2) group, significantly fewer former smokers displayed HbA1c levels of ≥5.6% compared with non-smokers and current smokers. Furthermore, the interaction between smoking habits and VFA was associated with the subjects' TG and HbA1c concentrations, and the associations of TG and HbA1c concentrations and smoking habits varied according to VFA. Both smoking habits and VFA exhibited associations with TG and HbA1c concentrations. The associations between smoking habits and these parameters differed according to VFA.

A rapid throughput approach identifies cognitive deficits in adult zebrafish from developmental exposure to polybrominated flame retardants.

PubMed

Truong, Lisa; Mandrell, David; Mandrell, Rick; Simonich, Michael; Tanguay, Robert L

2014-07-01

A substantial body of evidence has correlated the human body burdens of some polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants with cognitive and other behavioral deficits. Adult zebrafish exhibit testable learning and memory, making them an increasingly attractive model for neurotoxicology. Our goal was to develop a rapid throughput means of identifying the cognitive impact of developmental exposure to flame retardants in the zebrafish model. We exposed embryos from 6h post fertilization to 5 days post fertilization to either PBDE 47 (0.1μM), PBDE 99 (0.1μM) or PBDE 153 (0.1μM), vehicle (0.1% DMSO), or embryo medium (EM). The larvae were grown to adulthood and evaluated for the rate at which they learned an active-avoidance response in an automated shuttle box array. Zebrafish developmentally exposed to PBDE 47 learned the active avoidance paradigm significantly faster than the 0.1% DMSO control fish (P<0.0001), but exhibited significantly poorer performance when retested suggestive of impaired memory retention or altered neuromotor activity. Learning in the PBDE 153 group was not significantly different from the DMSO group. Developmental exposure to 0.1% DMSO impaired adult active avoidance learning relative to the sham group (n=39; P<0.0001). PBDE 99 prevented the DMSO effect, yielding a learning rate not significantly different from the sham group (n=36; P>0.9). Our results underscore the importance of vehicle choice in accurately assessing chemical effects on behavior. Active avoidance response in zebrafish is an effective model of learning that, combined with automated shuttle box testing, will provide a highly efficient platform for evaluating persistent neurotoxic hazard from many chemicals. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Combined long-term caffeine intake and exercise inhibits the development of diabetic nephropathy in OLETF rats.

PubMed

Suzuki, Masato; Shindo, Daisuke; Suzuki, Ryuichiro; Shirataki, Yoshiaki; Waki, Hidefumi

2017-05-01

This study was performed to examine the effects of long-term caffeine-intake, with and without exercise, on the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in an obese diabetic rat model. Thirty-two male Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF) rats were assigned to sedentary (OLETF-Sed), exercise (OLETF-Ex), caffeine-intake (OLETF-Caf), and combined (OLETF-Caf + Ex) groups. Caffeine-intake groups were fed rat chow containing caffeine (90.7 ± 4.7 mg/kg/day). The OLETF-Ex and OLETF-Caf + Ex groups were able to run voluntarily at any time using a rotatory wheel. Body weight (BW) and blood pressure (BP) were measured weekly from 24 to 29 wk of age. Pre- and posttreatment serum glucose, insulin, and creatinine concentrations were measured, and a 24 h urine sample was collected for measurement of creatinine clearance (Ccr) and albumin excretion (UE Alb ). After treatment, the kidneys were removed for morphological analysis. The OLETF-Caf and OLETF-Caf + Ex groups exhibited no BP increase during the study. Both the caffeine-intake groups exhibited a significant increase in urine volume (UV), electrolyte excretion, and Ccr, and decreased UE Alb , following treatment. Furthermore, no structural damage was observed in the kidneys of rats from either caffeine-intake group, whereas the OLETF-Sed and OLETF-Ex groups exhibited DN progression. This study demonstrates that caffeine-intake alone and/or combined with exercise significantly decreases BW and improves glucose intolerance, without the progression of DN. Further research should be performed to examine whether the quantities of caffeine contained in a normal human daily intake also have a protective effect against kidney damage. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study showed that caffeine administration alone and/or combined with exercise results in an improvement of diabetic nephropathy (DN), including an increase in creatinine clearance and urinary Na excretion, a decrease in urinary protein excretion, and in renal morphological findings. To our knowledge, there are no other studies showing that caffeine administration inhibits DN progression. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Effect of Benincasa hispida fruits on testosterone-induced prostatic hypertrophy in albino rats

PubMed Central

Nandecha, Chetan; Nahata, Alok; Dixit, Vinod Kumar

2010-01-01

Background: Benincasa hispida Cogn. has been used traditionally in India for the management of urinary disorders. The fruit of B hispida is used as a diuretic and the seeds have been reported to possess antiangiogenic effects in prostate cells. Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of petroleum ether extract, ethanolic extract, and B hispida seed oil on hyperplasia of the prostate induced by the subcutaneous administration of testosterone in rats. Methods: In vitro studies were performed to determine the 5α-reductase inhibitory potential of the extracts. The results of those studies paved the way for the pharmacologic screening of the extracts to assess their potential against testosterone-induced hyperplasia in rats. Nine groups containing 10 rats per group were created for this study. Hyperplasia was induced by administration of testosterone (3 mg/kg SC) for 14 days in all the groups except the vehicle-treated group. Simultaneous administration of petroleum ether extract (100 or 200 mg/kg PO), ethanolic extract (100 or 200 mg/kg PO), and B hispida seed oil (20 or 40 mg/kg PO) was conducted. A standard 5α-reductase inhibitor (ie, finasteride) was used as a positive control. The weight of the rats was recorded on day 0 (ie, day 1 of the study) and on day 14, and the influence of testosterone and test extracts on the weight of the rats was determined. On day 14, rats were euthanized; prostates were dissected out, and weighed. The rats' prostate/body weight (P/BW) ratio was then determined. Histologic examinations were performed on prostates from each group. Results: The petroleum ether extract as well as B hispida seed oil exhibited inhibition of 5α-reductase activity in in vitro studies. Ethanolic extract did not exhibit significant inhibitory potential in vitro. Further in vivo study found that testosterone treatment significantly increased the rats' P/BW ratio in all the groups except the vehicle-treated rats, and this increase in weight was significantly inhibited in rats administered petroleum ether extract (100 and 200 mg/kg PO) and B hispida seed oil (20 and 40 mg/kg PO). Ethanolic extract did not exhibit any significant activity. Conclusions: Petroleum ether extract and B hispida seed oil inhibited testosterone-induced hyperplasia of the prostate in these rats. Further studies are needed to evaluate its effect in humans with benign prostatic hyperplasia. PMID:24688153

Antibacterial effect and shear bond strength of an orthodontic adhesive cement containing Galla chinensis extract

PubMed Central

WANG, LU-FEI; LUO, FENG; XUE, CHAO-RAN; DENG, MENG; CHEN, CHEN; WU, HAO

2016-01-01

Galla chinensis extract (GCE), a naturally-derived agent, has a significant inhibitory effect on cariogenic bacteria. The present study aims to evaluate the antibacterial effect and shear bond strength of an orthodontic adhesive cement containing GCE. A resin-modified glass ionomer cement incorporated GCE at five mass fractions (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8%) to prepare GCE-containing cement for analysis. For the agar diffusion test, cement specimens were placed on agar disk inoculated with Streptococcus mutans (strain ATCC 25175). Following 48 h incubation, the inhibition halo diameter was measured. To assess bacteria colonization susceptibility, S. mutans adhesion to cement specimens was detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) following 48 h incubation. To evaluate bond strength, a total of 50 metal brackets were bonded on premolar surfaces by using cement (10 teeth/group). Following immersion in an artificial saliva for 3 days, shear bond strength (SBS) was measured. The results demonstrated that GCE-containing samples exhibited a larger bacterial inhibition halo than control, and the inhibition zone increased as the GCE mass fraction increased. SEM analysis demonstrated that S. mutans presented a weaker adherent capacity to all GCE-containing cements compared with control, but the difference between each GCE-containing group was not significant. SBS values of each GCE-containing group exhibited no difference compared with the control. In conclusion, GCE-containing adhesive cement exhibits a promising inhibitory effect on S. mutans growth and adhesion. Without compromising bond strength, adding GCE in adhesive cement may be an attractive option for preventing white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment. PMID:27073642

Modification of agonist binding moiety in hybrid derivative 5/7-{[2-(4-aryl-piperazin-1-yl)-ethyl]-propyl-amino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-1-ol/-2-amino versions: Impact on functional activity and selectivity for dopamine D2/D3 receptors

PubMed Central

Gopishetty, Bhaskar; Zhang, Suhong; Kharkar, Prashant S.; Antonio, Tamara; Reith, Maarten; Dutta, Aloke K.

2013-01-01

The goal of the present study was to explore, in our previously developed hybrid template, the effect of introduction of additional heterocyclic rings (mimicking catechol hydroxyl groups as bioisosteric replacement) on selectivity and affinity for the D3 versus D2 receptor. In addition, we wanted to explore the effect of derivatization of functional groups of the agonist binding moiety in compounds developed by us earlier from the hybrid template. Binding affinity (Ki) of the new compounds was measured with tritiated spiperone as the radioligand and HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors. Functional activity of selected compounds was assessed in the GTPγS binding assay. In the imidazole series, compound 10a exhibited the highest D3 affinity whereas the indole derivative 13 exhibited similar high D3 affinity. Functionalization of the amino group in agonist (+)-9d with different sulfonamides derivatives improved the D3 affinity significantly with (+)-14f exhibiting the highest affinity. However, functionalization of the hydroxyl and amino groups of 15 and (+)-9d, known agonist and partial agonist, to sulfonate ester and amide in general modulated the affinity. In both cases loss of agonist potency resulted from such derivatization. PMID:23623679

Working Memory and Motor Activity: A Comparison Across Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Healthy Control Groups.

PubMed

Lea, Sarah E; Matt Alderson, R; Patros, Connor H G; Tarle, Stephanie J; Arrington, Elaine F; Grant, DeMond M

2018-05-01

Converging findings from recent research suggest a functional relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related hyperactivity and demands on working memory (WM) in both children and adults. Excessive motor activity such as restlessness and fidgeting are not pathognomonic symptoms of ADHD, however, and are often associated with other diagnoses such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Further, previous research indicates that anticipatory processing associated with anxiety can directly interfere with storage and rehearsal processes of WM. The topographical similarity of excessive motor activity seen in both ADHD and anxiety disorders, as well as similar WM deficits, may indicate a common relationship between WM deficits and increased motor activity. The relationship between objectively measured motor activity (actigraphy) and PH and visuospatial WM demands in adults with ADHD (n = 21), adults with GAD (n = 21), and healthy control adults (n = 20) was examined. Although all groups exhibited significant increases in activity from control to WM conditions, the ADHD group exhibited a disproportionate increase in activity, while activity exhibited by the GAD and healthy control groups was not different. Findings indicate that ADHD-related hyperactivity is uniquely related to WM demands, and appear to suggest that adults with GAD are no more active relative to healthy control adults during a cognitively demanding laboratory task. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Child posture and shoulder belt fit during extended night-time traveling: an in-transit observational study.

PubMed

Forman, Jason L; Segui-Gomez, Maria; Ash, Joseph H; Lopez-Valdes, Francisco J

2011-01-01

Understanding pediatric occupant postures can help researchers indentify injury risk factors, and provide information for prospective injury prediction. This study sought to observe lateral head positions and shoulder belt fit among older child automobile occupants during a scenario likely to result in sleeping - extended travel during the night. An observational, volunteer, in-transit study was performed with 30 pediatric rear-seat passengers, ages 7 to 14. Each was restrained by a three-point seatbelt and was driven for seventy-five minutes at night. Ten subjects used a high-back booster seat, ten used a low-back booster seat, and ten used none (based on the subject height and weight). The subjects were recorded with a low-light video camera, and one frame was analyzed per each minute of video. The high-back booster group exhibited a statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease in the mean frequency of poor shoulder belt fit compared to the no-booster and low-back booster groups. The high-back booster group also exhibited statistically significant decreases in the 90(th) percentile of the absolute value of the relative lateral motion of the head. The low-back booster group did not result in statistically significant decreases in poor shoulder belt fit or lateral head motion compared to the no-booster group. These results are consistent with the presence of large lateral supports of the high-back booster which provided support to the head while sleeping, reducing voluntary lateral occupant motion and improving shoulder belt fit. Future work includes examining lap belt fit in-transit, and examining the effects of these observations on predicted injury risk.

Child Posture and Shoulder Belt Fit During Extended Night-Time Traveling: An In-Transit Observational Study.

PubMed Central

Forman, Jason L.; Segui-Gomez, Maria; Ash, Joseph H.; Lopez-Valdes, Francisco J.

2011-01-01

Understanding pediatric occupant postures can help researchers indentify injury risk factors, and provide information for prospective injury prediction. This study sought to observe lateral head positions and shoulder belt fit among older child automobile occupants during a scenario likely to result in sleeping - extended travel during the night. An observational, volunteer, in-transit study was performed with 30 pediatric rear-seat passengers, ages 7 to 14. Each was restrained by a three-point seatbelt and was driven for seventy-five minutes at night. Ten subjects used a high-back booster seat, ten used a low-back booster seat, and ten used none (based on the subject height and weight). The subjects were recorded with a low-light video camera, and one frame was analyzed per each minute of video. The high-back booster group exhibited a statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease in the mean frequency of poor shoulder belt fit compared to the no-booster and low-back booster groups. The high-back booster group also exhibited statistically significant decreases in the 90th percentile of the absolute value of the relative lateral motion of the head. The low-back booster group did not result in statistically significant decreases in poor shoulder belt fit or lateral head motion compared to the no-booster group. These results are consistent with the presence of large lateral supports of the high-back booster which provided support to the head while sleeping, reducing voluntary lateral occupant motion and improving shoulder belt fit. Future work includes examining lap belt fit in-transit, and examining the effects of these observations on predicted injury risk. PMID:22105378

Lung fibrosis in Sprague-Dawley rats, induced by exposure to manual metal arc-stainless steel welding fumes.

PubMed

Yu, I J; Song, K S; Chang, H K; Han, J H; Kim, K J; Chung, Y H; Maeng, S H; Park, S H; Han, K T; Chung, K H; Chung, H K

2001-09-01

To investigate the disease process of pneumoconiosis induced by welding-fume exposure, a lung fibrosis model was established by building a stainless steel arc welding fume generation system and exposing male Sprague-Dawley rats for 90 days. The rats were exposed to welding fumes with concentrations of 57-67 mg/m3 (low dose) and 105-118 mg/m3 (high dose) total suspended particulates for 2 h per day in an inhalation chamber for 90 days. The concentrations of the main metals, Fe, Mn, Cr, and Ni, were measured in the welding fumes, plus the gaseous compounds, including nitrous gases and ozone, were monitored. During the exposure period, the animals were sacrificed after the initial 2-h exposure and after 15, 30, 60, and 90 days. Histopathological examinations were conducted on the animals' upper respiratory tract, including the nasal pathway and conducting airway, plus the gas exchange region, including the alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs, and alveoli. When compared to the control group, the lung weights did not increase significantly in the low-dose group, yet in the high-dose group there was a significant increase from day 15 to day 90. The histopathological examination combined with fibrosis-specific staining (Masson's trichrome) indicated that the lungs in the low-dose group did not exhibit any progressive fibrotic changes. Whereas, the lungs in the high-dose group exhibited early delicate fibrosis from day 15, which progressed into the perivascular and peribronchiolar regions by day 30. Interstitial fibrosis appeared at day 60 and became prominent by day 90, along with the additional appearance of pleural fibrosis. Accordingly, it would appear that a significant dose of welding-fume exposure was required to induce lung fibrosis.

Automatic control of pressure support for ventilator weaning in surgical intensive care patients.

PubMed

Schädler, Dirk; Engel, Christoph; Elke, Gunnar; Pulletz, Sven; Haake, Nils; Frerichs, Inéz; Zick, Günther; Scholz, Jens; Weiler, Norbert

2012-03-15

Despite its ability to reduce overall ventilation time, protocol-guided weaning from mechanical ventilation is not routinely used in daily clinical practice. Clinical implementation of weaning protocols could be facilitated by integration of knowledge-based, closed-loop controlled protocols into respirators. To determine whether automated weaning decreases overall ventilation time compared with weaning based on a standardized written protocol in an unselected surgical patient population. In this prospective controlled trial patients ventilated for longer than 9 hours were randomly allocated to receive either weaning with automatic control of pressure support ventilation (automated-weaning group) or weaning based on a standardized written protocol (control group) using the same ventilation mode. The primary end point of the study was overall ventilation time. Overall ventilation time (median [25th and 75th percentile]) did not significantly differ between the automated-weaning (31 [19-101] h; n = 150) and control groups (39 [20-118] h; n = 150; P = 0.178). Patients who underwent cardiac surgery (n = 132) exhibited significantly shorter overall ventilation times in the automated-weaning (24 [18-57] h) than in the control group (35 [20-93] h; P = 0.035). The automated-weaning group exhibited shorter ventilation times until the first spontaneous breathing trial (1 [0-15] vs. 9 [1-51] h; P = 0.001) and a trend toward fewer tracheostomies (17 vs. 28; P = 0.075). Overall ventilation times did not significantly differ between weaning using automatic control of pressure support ventilation and weaning based on a standardized written protocol. Patients after cardiac surgery may benefit from automated weaning. Implementation of additional control variables besides the level of pressure support may further improve automated-weaning systems. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 00445289).

Metabolites as novel biomarkers for childhood obesity-related traits in Mexican-American children.

PubMed

Farook, V S; Reddivari, L; Chittoor, G; Puppala, S; Arya, R; Fowler, S P; Hunt, K J; Curran, J E; Comuzzie, A G; Lehman, D M; Jenkinson, C P; Lynch, J L; DeFronzo, R A; Blangero, J; Hale, D E; Duggirala, R; Vanamala, J

2015-08-01

Although newer approaches have identified several metabolites associated with obesity, there is paucity of such information in paediatric populations, especially among Mexican-Americans (MAs) who are at high risk of obesity. Therefore, we performed a global serum metabolite screening in MA children to identify biomarkers of childhood obesity. We selected 15 normal-weight, 13 overweight and 14 obese MA children (6-17 years) and performed global serum metabolite screening using ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadruple orthogonal acceleration time of flight tandem micro mass spectrometer. Metabolite values were analysed to assess mean differences among groups using one-way analysis of variance, to test for linear trend across groups and to examine Pearson's correlations between them and seven cardiometabolic traits (CMTs): body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance, triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. We identified 14 metabolites exhibiting differences between groups as well as linear trend across groups with nominal statistical significance. After adjustment for multiple testing, mean differences and linear trends across groups remained significant (P < 5.9 × 10(-5) ) for L-thyronine, bradykinin and naringenin. Of the examined metabolite-CMT trait pairs, all metabolites except for 2-methylbutyroylcarnitine were nominally associated with two or more CMTs, some exhibiting significance even after accounting for multiple testing (P < 3.6 × 10(-3) ). To our knowledge, this study - albeit pilot in nature - is the first study to identify these metabolites as novel biomarkers of childhood obesity and its correlates. These findings signify the need for future systematic investigations of metabolic pathways underlying childhood obesity. © 2014 World Obesity.

Effect of canagliflozin and metformin on cortical neurotransmitters in a diabetic rat model.

PubMed

Arafa, Nadia M S; Marie, Mohamed-Assem S; AlAzimi, Sara Abdullah Mubarak

2016-10-25

The rapid economic development in the Arabian Gulf has resulted in lifestyle changes that have increased the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, with the greatest increases observed in Kuwait. Dyslipidemia and diabetes are risk factors for disruptions in cortical neurotransmitter homeostasis. This study investigated the effect of the antidiabetic medications canagliflozin (CAN) and metformin (MET) on the levels of cortical neurotransmitters in a diabetic rat model. The rats were assigned to the control (C) group, the diabetic group that did not receive treatment (D) or the diabetic group treated with either CAN (10 mg/kg) or MET (100 mg/kg) for 2 or 4 weeks. Blood and urine glucose levels and cortical acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were assayed, and amino acid and monoamine levels were measured using HPLC. The diabetic group exhibited a significant increase in AChE activity and a decrease in monoamine and amino acid neurotransmitter levels. In the CAN group, AChE was significantly lower than that in the D and D + MET groups after 2 weeks of treatment. In addition, a significant increase in some cortical monoamines and amino acids was observed in the D + MET and D + CAN groups compared with the D group. Histopathological analysis revealed the presence of severe focal hemorrhage, neuronal degeneration, and cerebral blood vessel congestion, with gliosis in the cerebrum of rats in the D group. The CAN-treated group exhibited severe cerebral blood vessel congestion after 2 weeks of treatment and focal gliosis in the cerebrum after 4 weeks of treatment. Focal gliosis in the cerebrum of rats in the MET-treated group was observed after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. We conclude that the effect of CAN and MET on neurotransmitters is potentially mediated by their antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effects. In addition, the effects of CAN on neurotransmitters might be associated with its receptor activity, and the effect of MET on neurotransmitters might be associated with cerebral metabolism. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative study of different procedures for the separation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in cytokine-induced killer cell immunotherapy for hepatocarcinoma.

PubMed

Liu, Hui; Li, Jianyu; Wang, Fengmei; Gao, Yingtang; Luo, Ying; Wang, Peng; Li, Chenglong; Zhu, Zhengyan

2015-04-01

Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell immunotherapy exhibits significant advantages in the clinical treatment of tumors. This study was designed to compare the biological characteristics of autologous CIK cells from patients with hepatocarcinoma following different procedures for the separation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Forty-four hepatocarcinoma patients were enrolled and distributed into two groups. PBMCs were isolated either using a blood cell separator (apheresis method) or Ficoll lymphocyte separation medium (Ficoll method). The total amount, collection efficacy, and cell status of PBMCs in the two groups were determined. According to the number and status of collected PBMCs, different cultivation procedures were used for their amplification and activation and the proliferation ability, phenotype, and killing activity of CIK cells in the two groups were evaluated. Our results indicated that the number of collected PBMCs in the apheresis group was far more than that in the Ficoll group. However, the isolation rate was lower, and more cellular debris was observed in the apheresis group, which may be the cause of some untoward effects. Following in vitro culture, the enrichment time of CIK cells was longer in the Ficoll group, and the percentages of CD3(+)CD4(+) (Th) and CD4(+)CD25(+) (Treg) cells were higher. In the apheresis group, the percentages of CD3(-)CD56(+) (NK) and CD3(+)CD56(+) (NKT) cells were higher, and the CIK cells exhibited a higher cytolytic activity against HepG2 hepatoma cells. In conclusion, different procedures for PBMCs separation can influence the biological activities of CIK cells, and the apheresis method is more effective at enhancing the antitumor efficacy of CIK cells. However, significant attention should be paid to the possibility of adverse reactions in apheresis donors.

Clinical Outcomes of SMILE With a Triple Centration Technique and Corneal Wavefront-Guided Transepithelial PRK in High Astigmatism.

PubMed

Jun, Ikhyun; Kang, David Sung Yong; Reinstein, Dan Z; Arba-Mosquera, Samuel; Archer, Timothy J; Seo, Kyoung Yul; Kim, Tae-Im

2018-03-01

To comparatively investigate the clinical outcomes, vector parameters, and corneal aberrations of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) with a triple centration technique and corneal wavefront-guided transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for the correction of high astigmatism. This retrospective, comparative case series study included 89 eyes (89 patients) that received treatment for myopia with high astigmatism (≥ 2.50 diopters) using SMILE with a triple centration technique (SMILE group; 45 eyes) and corneal wavefront-guided transepithelial PRK (transepithelial PRK group; 44 eyes). Visual acuity measurement, manifest refraction, slit-lamp examination, autokeratometry, corneal topography, and evaluation of corneal wavefront aberration were performed preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. The safety, efficacy, vector parameters, and corneal aberrations at 6 months after surgery were compared between the two groups. At 6 months after surgery, the transepithelial PRK and SMILE groups exhibited comparable mean uncorrected distance visual acuities (-0.06 ± 0.07 and -0.05 ± 0.07 logMAR, respectively), safety, efficacy, and predictability of refractive and visual outcomes. There was a slight but statistically significant difference in the correction index between the transepithelial PRK and SMILE groups (0.96 ± 0.11 and 0.91 ± 0.10, respectively). Whereas the transepithelial PRK group exhibited increased corneal spherical aberration and significantly reduced corneal coma and trefoil, no changes in aberrometric values were noted in the SMILE group. Both SMILE with a triple centration technique and corneal wavefront-guided transepithelial PRK are effective and provide predictable outcomes for the correction of high myopic astigmatism, although slight undercorrection was observed in the SMILE group. The triple centration technique was helpful in astigmatism correction by SMILE. [J Refract Surg. 2018;34(3):156-163.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.

Cytomorphometric and Morphological Analysis in Women with Trichomonas vaginalis Infection: Micronucleus Frequency in Exfoliated Cervical Epithelial Cells.

PubMed

Safi Oz, Zehra; Doğan Gun, Banu; Gun, Mustafa Ozkan; Ozdamar, Sukru Oguz

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to explore the cytomorphometric and morphological effects of Trichomonas vaginalis in exfoliated epithelial cells. Ninety-six Pap-stained cervical smears were divided into a study group and two control groups as follows: T. vaginalis cases, a first control group with inflammation, and a second control group without inflammation. Micronucleated, binucleated, karyorrhectic, karyolytic, and karyopyknotic cells and cells with perinuclear halos per 1,000 epithelial cells were counted. Nuclear and cellular areas were evaluated in 70 clearly defined cells in each smear using image analysis. The frequencies of morphological parameters in the T. vaginalis cases were higher than the values of the two control groups, and the difference among groups was found to be significant (p < 0.05). The nuclear and cytoplasmic areas of epithelial cells were diminished in patients with trichomoniasis. The mean nucleus/cytoplasm ratio in T. vaginalis patients was higher than the value in the control groups, and the difference between the study group and control group 1 was significant. However, there was no statistically significant increase between the study group and control group 2. T. vaginalis exhibited significant changes in the cellular size and nuclear structure of the cells. The rising frequency of micronuclei, nuclear abnormalities, and changing nucleus/cytoplasm ratio may reflect genotoxic damage in trichomoniasis. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Characterizing adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity-disorder and comorbid borderline personality disorder: ADHD symptoms, psychopathology, cognitive functioning and psychosocial factors.

PubMed

O'Malley, G K; McHugh, L; Mac Giollabhui, N; Bramham, J

2016-01-01

To characterize adults with comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) with regard to ADHD symptoms, psychopathology, cognitive functioning and psychosocial factors. A between-group design compared a group of individuals diagnosed with ADHD (n=40) with a group diagnosed with BPD and who also met the criteria for ADHD (ADHD+BPD) (n=20). Significant differences were observed for both childhood and current impulsivity symptoms, whereby ADHD+BPD exhibited increased impulsivity; no differences on self-report and cognitive measures of impulsivity were reported. The ADHD+BPD group scored significantly higher on measures of depression, anxiety and numerous other axis I and II conditions. The ADHD+BPD group scored significantly lower on most measures of intellectual functioning and attention, however largely not on those relating to response inhibition. Furthermore, group differences were observed for psychosocial factors, including education, substance use and criminal record. Comorbid ADHD and BPD is characterized by more symptoms of impulsivity, additional psychopathology, comparatively lower intellectual and attentional functioning and increased psychosocial difficulties. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Sub-chronic safety evaluation of aqueous extract of Alangium salvifolium (L.f.) Wangerin leaves in rats.

PubMed

Kapoor, Bhupinder; Kaur, Gagandeep; Gupta, Mukta; Gupta, Reena

2017-01-01

Conventionally, the juice and extract of Alangium salvifolium leaves have been used for the treatment of diabetes, wound healing, dog bite, and as a poultice in rheumatism. To carry out the sub-chronic toxicity and thereafter safety evaluation of A. salvifolium leaves. The aqueous extract of A. salvifolium leaves was administered orally at the doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg/day for 90 days. All the animals were observed daily for general behavior, changes in body weight, food, and water consumption. At the end of the treatment period, biochemical and hematological parameters were analyzed; and the animals were sacrificed for histopathological examination of heart, lungs, liver, and kidney. The general behavior and water intake were normal in all the rats. The increase in body weight was observed in female rats of all the groups while body weight was decreased in high dose group animals of both sexes. Hematological parameters were not disturbed by the continuous use of extract. A significant decrease in glucose level was observed in intermediate- and high-dose group animals while urea and creatinine level were significantly high in animals of high-dose group. Although histopathological examination of most of the organs exhibited no structural changes, some tubal damage in kidneys was observed in high-dose group animals. The high dose of extract has shown mild signs of toxicity on kidney function test, but no toxic response was observed on hematological and liver biochemical parameters. The extract also exhibited hypoglycemic potential.

Working Memory Updating Training Improves Mathematics Performance in Middle School Students With Learning Difficulties.

PubMed

Zhang, Hongxia; Chang, Lei; Chen, Xiaoying; Ma, Liang; Zhou, Renlai

2018-01-01

Working memory (WM) deficit is considered the key cause of learning difficulties (LDs). Studies have shown that WM is plastic and thus can be improved through training. This positive effect is transferable to fluid intelligence and academic performance. This study investigated whether WM updating ability and academic performance in children with LDs could be improved through WM updating training and explored the effects of this training on the children's brain activity. We used a running memory task lasting approximately 40 min per day for 28 days to train a group of 23 children with LDs (TLDs group). We also selected two control groups of 22 children with LDs (CLDs group) and 20 children without LDs (normal control [NC] group). The behavioral results of a pretest indicated that WM updating ability and academic performance in the TLDs and CLDs groups were significantly lower than those in the NC group before training. Compared with the CLDs group, the TLDs group exhibited significant performance improvement in a 2-back WM task, as well as in mathematical ability. Event-related potentials (ERPs) results suggested that the amplitudes of N160 (representative of visual recognition) and P300 (representative of updating processing, which is a valid index for updating WM) in the TLDs and CLDs groups were markedly lower than those in the NC group before training. In the TLDs group, these two components increased considerably after training, approaching levels similar to those in the NC group. The results of this study suggest that WM updating training can improve WM updating ability in children with LDs and the training effect can transfer to mathematical performance in such children. Furthermore, the participants' brain activity levels can exhibit positive changes. This article provides experimental evidence that WM updating training could mitigate the symptoms of LDs to a certain degree.

Glycemic Status in Organophosphorus Poisoning.

PubMed

Panda, S; Nanda, R; Mangaraj, M; Rathod, P K; Mishra, P K

2015-01-01

Organophosphorus(OP) poisoning, in addition to its cholinergic manifestations shows metabolic derangements leading to hyperglycemia. Apart from inhibiting acetylcholinesterase it also induces oxidative stress to exhibit this manifestation. The present study aims to assess the glycemic status of OP poisoned patients and its association with various factors in OP poisoning like oxidative stress and dose of atropine. This is a prospective study which recruited 102 patients above 18 years of age with history of OP poisoning. They were categorized into 3 grades-mild, moderate and severe based on the Peradeniya Organophosphorus Poisining Scale. The routine biochemical parameters along with serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and cholinesterase were estimated in the study group. Hyperglycemia and glycosuria were observed, with majority cases of hyperglycemia (57%) noticed in the severe group. There was a rise in the random plasma glucose (RPG), serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total dose of atropine across the groups along with a fall in the serum cholinesterase with increase in severity of poisoning. The fall in plasma glucose at the time of discharge was significant in all three groups when compared to the admission random plasma glucose(RPG) level. This transient hyperglycemia exhibited a significant positive association with serum MDA and dose of atropine administered during treatment (p<0.05). Glycemic status in OP poisoning may play a role in identifying the severity of poisoning at the time of admission.

Diel-scale temporal dynamics recorded for bacterial groups in Namib Desert soil

PubMed Central

Gunnigle, Eoin; Frossard, Aline; Ramond, Jean-Baptiste; Guerrero, Leandro; Seely, Mary; Cowan, Don A.

2017-01-01

Microbes in hot desert soil partake in core ecosystem processes e.g., biogeochemical cycling of carbon. Nevertheless, there is still a fundamental lack of insights regarding short-term (i.e., over a 24-hour [diel] cycle) microbial responses to highly fluctuating microenvironmental parameters like temperature and humidity. To address this, we employed T-RFLP fingerprinting and 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA-derived cDNA to characterize potentially active bacteria in Namib Desert soil over multiple diel cycles. Strikingly, we found that significant shifts in active bacterial groups could occur over a single 24-hour period. For instance, members of the predominant Actinobacteria phyla exhibited a significant reduction in relative activity from morning to night, whereas many Proteobacterial groups displayed an opposite trend. Contrary to our leading hypothesis, environmental parameters could only account for 10.5% of the recorded total variation. Potential biotic associations shown through co-occurrence networks indicated that non-random inter- and intra-phyla associations were ‘time-of-day-dependent’ which may constitute a key feature of this system. Notably, many cyanobacterial groups were positioned outside and/or between highly interconnected bacterial associations (modules); possibly acting as inter-module ‘hubs’ orchestrating interactions between important functional consortia. Overall, these results provide empirical evidence that bacterial communities in hot desert soils exhibit complex and diel-dependent inter-community associations. PMID:28071697

Analgesic efficacy of lysine clonixinate plus tramadol versus tramadol in multiple doses following impacted third molar surgery.

PubMed

Perez-Urizar, J; Martínez-Rider, R; Torres-Roque, I; Garrocho-Rangel, A; Pozos-Guillen, A

2014-03-01

This study compared the analgesic and anti-inflammatory efficacy, trismus control, and tolerability of the combination of lysine clonixinate and tramadol (LCT) versus tramadol (T) alone after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars. This study was a double-blind, randomized clinical trial, including two study groups of 20 patients each, who exhibited acute pain subsequent to surgical extraction of two mandibular third molars. Pain intensity was quantified over a 96-h period using a visual analogue scale and a 5-point verbal rating scale. Secondary indicators of analgesic and anti-inflammatory efficacy, trismus control, and tolerability were determined. Patients administered LCT exhibited better therapeutic effects that those administered T. Fifty percent of patients in the LCT group rated this therapy as 'excellent analgesia' compared with only 10% in the T group. The onset of the analgesic effect of LCT was significantly faster, without any therapeutic failures. There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to anti-inflammatory effect or trismus. The results of this study suggest that the postsurgical analgesic efficacy of LCT in combination (LC 125 mg + T 25 mg) is superior to that obtained with T alone, administered at the standard dose of 50 mg, for up to 96 h after the extraction of both impacted mandibular third molars. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diel-scale temporal dynamics recorded for bacterial groups in Namib Desert soil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunnigle, Eoin; Frossard, Aline; Ramond, Jean-Baptiste; Guerrero, Leandro; Seely, Mary; Cowan, Don A.

2017-01-01

Microbes in hot desert soil partake in core ecosystem processes e.g., biogeochemical cycling of carbon. Nevertheless, there is still a fundamental lack of insights regarding short-term (i.e., over a 24-hour [diel] cycle) microbial responses to highly fluctuating microenvironmental parameters like temperature and humidity. To address this, we employed T-RFLP fingerprinting and 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA-derived cDNA to characterize potentially active bacteria in Namib Desert soil over multiple diel cycles. Strikingly, we found that significant shifts in active bacterial groups could occur over a single 24-hour period. For instance, members of the predominant Actinobacteria phyla exhibited a significant reduction in relative activity from morning to night, whereas many Proteobacterial groups displayed an opposite trend. Contrary to our leading hypothesis, environmental parameters could only account for 10.5% of the recorded total variation. Potential biotic associations shown through co-occurrence networks indicated that non-random inter- and intra-phyla associations were ‘time-of-day-dependent’ which may constitute a key feature of this system. Notably, many cyanobacterial groups were positioned outside and/or between highly interconnected bacterial associations (modules); possibly acting as inter-module ‘hubs’ orchestrating interactions between important functional consortia. Overall, these results provide empirical evidence that bacterial communities in hot desert soils exhibit complex and diel-dependent inter-community associations.

Behavioral and Neural Sustained Attention Deficits in Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

PubMed Central

Pagliaccio, David; Wiggins, Jillian Lee; Adleman, Nancy E.; Curhan, Alexa; Zhang, Susan; Towbin, Kenneth E.; Brotman, Melissa A.; Pine, Daniel S.; Leibenluft, Ellen

2017-01-01

Objective Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), characterized by severe irritability, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are highly comorbid. This is the first study to characterize neural and behavioral similarities and differences in attentional functioning across these disorders. Method Twenty-seven healthy volunteers, 31 patients with DMDD, and 25 patients with ADHD (8–18-year-olds) completed a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) attention task. Group differences in intra-subject variability in reaction time (ISVRT) were examined. The current fMRI analytic approach precisely quantified trial-wise associations between reaction time and brain activity. Results Group differences manifested in the relationship between reaction time and brain activity (all regions: p<.01, F>2.54, ηp2>0.06). Patients with DMDD showed specific alterations in the right paracentral lobule, superior parietal lobule, fusiform gyrus, and cerebellar culmen. In contrast, both patients with DMDD and ADHD exhibited blunted compensatory increases in activity on long reaction time trials. Additionally, youth with DMDD exhibited increased activity in the postcentral gyrus, medial frontal gyrus, and cerebellar tonsil and declive (all regions: p<.05, F>2.46, ηp2>0.06). The groups in the imaging sample did not differ significantly in ISVRT (F[2,79]=2.664, p=.076, ηp2=0.063), though ISVRT was significantly elevated among youth with DMDD and ADHD when including those not meeting strict motion and accuracy criteria for the imaging analysis (F[2,96]=4.283, p=.017, ηp2=0.083). Conclusion Patients with DMDD exhibited specific alterations in the relationship between pre-stimulus brain activity and reaction time. Both patients with DMDD and ADHD exhibited similar blunting of compensatory neural activity in frontal, parietal, and other regions. Additionally, patients with DMDD demonstrated elevated reaction time variability relative to healthy youth. This work is the first to identify common and unique behavioral and neural signatures of DMDD and ADHD. PMID:28433092

Interlabial contact pressures exhibited in dysarthria following traumatic brain injury during speech and nonspeech tasks.

PubMed

Goozée, Justine V; Murdoch, Bruce E; Theodoros, Deborah G

2002-01-01

A miniature pressure transducer was used to assess the interlabial contact pressures produced by a group of 19 adults (mean age 30.6 years) with dysarthria following severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) during a set of speech and nonspeech tasks. Ten parameters relating to lip strength, endurance, rate of movement and lip pressure accuracy and stability were measured from the nonspeech tasks. The results attained by the TBI group were compared against a group of 19 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Significant differences between the groups were found for maximum interlabial contact pressure, maximum rate of repetition of maximum pressure, and lip pressure accuracy at 50 and 10% levels of maximum pressure. In regards to speech, the interlabial contact pressures generated by the TBI group and control group did not differ significantly. When expressed as percentages of maximum pressure, however, the TBI group's interlabial pressures appeared to have been generated with greater physiological effort. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Key team physical and technical performance indicators indicative of team quality in the soccer Chinese super league.

PubMed

Yang, Gai; Leicht, Anthony S; Lago, Carlos; Gómez, Miguel-Ángel

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify the key physical and technical performance variables related to team quality in the Chinese Super League (CSL). Teams' performance variables were collected from 240 matches and analysed via analysis of variance between end-of-season-ranked groups and multinomial logistic regression. Significant physical performance differences between groups were identified for sprinting (top-ranked group vs. upper-middle-ranked group) and total distance covered without possession (upper and upper-middle-ranked groups and lower-ranked group). For technical performance, teams in the top-ranked group exhibited a significantly greater amount of possession in opponent's half, number of entry passes in the final 1/3 of the field and the Penalty Area, and 50-50 challenges than lower-ranked teams. Finally, time of possession increased the probability of a win compared with a draw. The current study identified key performance indicators that differentiated end-season team quality within the CSL.

Comparison of Shoulder Range of Motion, Strength, and Playing Time in Uninjured High School Baseball Pitchers Who Reside in Warm- and Cold-Weather Climates

PubMed Central

Kaplan, Kevin M.; ElAttrache, Neal S.; Jobe, Frank W.; Morrey, Bernard F.; Kaufman, Kenton R.; Hurd, Wendy J.

2014-01-01

Background There is an assumption that baseball athletes who reside in warm-weather climates experience larger magnitude adaptations in throwing shoulder motion and strength compared with their peers who reside in cold-weather climates. Hypotheses (1) The warm-weather climate (WWC) group would exhibit more pronounced shoulder motion and strength adaptations than the cold-weather climate (CWC) group, and (2) the WWC group would participate in pitching activities for a greater proportion of the year than the CWC group, with the time spent pitching predicting throwing shoulder motion and strength in both groups. Study Design Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods One hundred uninjured high school pitchers (50 each WWC, CWC) were recruited. Rotational shoulder motion and isometric strength were measured and participants reported the number of months per year they pitched. To identify differences between groups, t tests were performed; linear regression was used to determine the influence of pitching volume on shoulder motion and strength. Results The WWC group pitched more months per year than athletes from the CWC group, with the number of months spent pitching negatively related to internal rotation motion and external rotation strength. The WWC group exhibited greater shoulder range of motion in all planes compared with the CWC group, as well as significantly lower external rotation strength and external/internal rotation strength ratios. There was no difference in internal rotation strength between groups, nor a difference in the magnitude of side-to-side differences for strength or motion measures. Conclusion Athletes who reside in cold- and warm-weather climates exhibit differences in throwing shoulder motion and strength, related in part to the number of months spent participating in pitching activities. The amount of time spent participating in pitching activities and the magnitude of range of motion and strength adaptations in athletes who reside in warm-weather climates may make these athletes more susceptible to throwing-related injuries. PMID:21051421

Negative impact of bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis

PubMed Central

Nam, Young-Sun; Kim, Nayoun; Im, Keon-Il; Lim, Jung-Yeon; Lee, Eun-Sol; Cho, Seok-Goo

2015-01-01

AIM: To investigate the effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on dextran sulfate sodium-induced inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). METHODS: C57BL/6 mice were fed 3.5% (g/L) dextran sulfate sodium. On day seven, the mice received intraperitoneal injections of 1 × 106 MSCs. The survival rate, disease activity index values, and body weight, were monitored daily. On day ten, colon lengths and histopathologic changes were assessed. In addition, immunoregulatory changes following MSC administration were evaluated by determining the levels of effector T cell responses in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes, and the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in homogenized colons. RESULTS: Intraperitoneal administration of MSCs did not prevent development of colitis and did not reduce the clinicopathologic severity of IBD. No significant difference was evident in either survival rate or disease activity index score between the control and MSC-treated group. Day ten-sacrificed mice exhibited no significant difference in either colon length or histopathologic findings. Indeed, the MSC-treated group exhibited elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and transforming growth factor-β, and a reduced level of IL-10, in spleens, mesenteric lymph nodes, and homogenized colons. The IL-17 level was lower in the mesenteric lymph nodes of the MSC-treated group (P = 0.0126). In homogenized colons, the IL-17 and tumor necrosis factor-α (P = 0.0092) expression levels were also lower in the treated group. CONCLUSION: MSC infusion provided no significant histopathologic or clinical improvement, thus representing a limited therapeutic approach for IBD. Functional enhancement of MSCs is needed in further study. PMID:25717235

Teen motherhood and long-term health consequences.

PubMed

Patel, Payal H; Sen, Bisakha

2012-07-01

The objective of this article is to examine the association of teen motherhood and long-term physical and mental health outcomes. The physical and mental health components (PCS and MCS) of the SF-12 Healthy Survey in the NLSY79 health module were used to assess long-term health outcomes of women who experienced teenage motherhood. Various familial, demographic, and environmental characteristics were indentified and controlled for that may have predicted teen motherhood and long-term health outcomes. The two comparison groups for teen mothers were women who experienced teen-pregnancy only and women who were engaged in unprotected sexual activity as a teenage but did not experience pregnancy. Multivariate ordinary least squares regression was used for analysis. The average PCS and MCS for teen mothers was 49.91 and 50.89, respectively. Teen mothers exhibited poorer physical health later in life compared to all women as well as the comparison groups. When controlling for age, teen mothers had significantly lower PCS and MCS scores compared to all other women. Furthermore, when controlling for familial, demographic, and environmental characteristics, teen mothers exhibited significantly lower PCS and MCS scores. When comparing teen mothers to the two comparison groups, PCS was not statistically different although MCS was significantly lower in the teen-pregnancy group. Teen motherhood does lead to poorer physical health outcomes later in life. On the other hand, poorer mental health outcomes in later life may be attributed to the unmeasured factors leading to a teen pregnancy and not teen motherhood itself. Additional research needs to be conducted on the long-term consequences of teen motherhood.

Antioxidant activity and protective effect of bee bread (honey and pollen) in aluminum-induced anemia, elevation of inflammatory makers and hepato-renal toxicity.

PubMed

Bakour, Meryem; Al-Waili, Noori S; El Menyiy, Nawal; Imtara, Hamada; Figuira, Anna Cristina; Al-Waili, Thia; Lyoussi, Badiaa

2017-12-01

Aluminum toxicity might be related to oxidative stress, and the antioxidant activity and protective effect of bee bread, which contains pollen, honey and bees' enzymes, on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity was investigated in rats. Chemical analysis and antioxidant capacity of bee bread were conducted. The animal experiment in rats included; group 1: received distilled water (10 ml/kg b.wt), group 2: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt), group 3: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (500 mg/kg b.wt), and group 4: received aluminum chloride (662.2 mg/kg b.wt) and ethanolic extract of the bee bread (750 mg/kg b.wt). Doses were given once daily via a gavage. C-reactive protein, transaminases, urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, sodium and potassium and urine sodium and potassium were determined on day 28 of the experiment. Bee bread contained protein, fat, fiber, ash, carbohydrate, phenol and flavonoids and it exhibited antioxidant activity. Aluminum caused a significant elevation of blood urea, transaminase, C-reactive protein and monocyte count and significantly decreased hemoglobin. These changes were significantly ameliorated by the use of bee bread. Bee bread has an antioxidant property, and exhibited a protective effect on aluminum induced blood and hepato-renal toxicity and elevation of inflammatory markers C-reactive protein, leukocyte and monocyte counts.

Piracetam and vinpocetine ameliorate rotenone-induced Parkinsonism in rats

PubMed Central

Zaitone, Sawsan A.; Abo-Elmatty, Dina M.; Elshazly, Shimaa M.

2012-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of the nootropic drugs, piracetam (PIR) and vinpocetine (VIN), in rotenone-induced Parkinsonism in rats. Materials and Methods: Sixty male rats were divided into 6 groups of 10 rats each. The groups were administered vehicle, control (rotenone, 1.5 mg/kg/48 h/6 doses, s.c.), PIR (100 and 200 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and VIN (3 and 6 mg/kg/day, p.o.). The motor performance of the rats was evaluated by the open field and pole test. Striatal dopamine level, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assayed. Histopathological study of the substantia nigra was also done. Results: Results showed that rotenone-treated rats exhibited bradykinesia and motor impairment in the open-field test. In addition, GSH level was decreased whereas MDA and TNF-α increased in striata of rotenone-treated rats as compared to vehicle-treated rats. Marked degeneration of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) neurons and depletion of striatal dopamine was also observed in the rotenone-treated rats. Treatment with PIR or VIN significantly reversed the locomotor deficits and increased striatal dopamine level. Treatment with VIN significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the striatal level of MDA and GSH in comparison to rotenone group whereas TNF-α production was found to be significantly decreased in PIR group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: VIN and PIR exhibit neuroprotective activity in rotenone-induced Parkinsonism. Hence, these nootropic agents may be considered as possible candidates in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. PMID:23248410

Anti-inflammatory and in-vitro antibacterial activities of Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Qingdaisan.

PubMed

Zhao, Xinghua; He, Xin; Zhong, Xiuhui

2016-12-05

Qingdaisan (Formulated Indigo powder, QDS) are widely used for treatment of aphtha, sore throat and bleeding gums in China. The aim of the study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and dental ulcer therapeutic effects of QDS. Dimethylbenzene-induced ear edema test and cotton pellet-induced granuloma test were used to evaluate anti-inflammatory activities of QDS on acute and chronic inflammatory. The healing time and local pathologic changes were used to assess the therapeutic effects of QDS on dental ulcer. The antibacterial activities of each component and the whole formulation of QDS were determined by agar well diffusion assay. High-dose and low-dose QDS were tested in this experiment and Gui Lin Watermelon Frost Powder (GLWFP) was used as positive control. Oral treatment with QDS significantly accelerated the healing of ulcerative lesions induced by phenol injury. The dental ulcers of high-dose QDS group were all healed within 6 days. It was shorter than those of low-dose QDS group and GLWFP group. Less quantity of inflammatory cells and plenty fibroblasts were observed in pathological section of QDS groups. QDS also exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity both in acute and chronic animal models. Although some of the components exhibited antibacterial activities, the whole formulation of QDS didn't show any significant antibacterial activity in vitro. The study showed that QDS has obviously anti-inflammatory activity for both acute and chronic inflammatory, also has a remarkable effect for healing dental ulcer caused by phenol. QDS didn't have antibacterial activity to selected strains in vitro.

Cortical Signatures of Dyslexia and Remediation: An Intrinsic Functional Connectivity Approach

PubMed Central

Koyama, Maki S.; Di Martino, Adriana; Kelly, Clare; Jutagir, Devika R.; Sunshine, Jessica; Schwartz, Susan J.; Castellanos, Francisco X.; Milham, Michael P.

2013-01-01

This observational, cross-sectional study investigates cortical signatures of developmental dyslexia, particularly from the perspective of behavioral remediation. We employed resting-state fMRI, and compared intrinsic functional connectivity (iFC) patterns of known reading regions (seeds) among three dyslexia groups characterized by (a) no remediation (current reading and spelling deficits), (b) partial remediation (only reading deficit remediated), and (c) full remediation (both reading and spelling deficits remediated), and a group of age- and IQ-matched typically developing children (TDC) (total N = 44, age range = 7–15 years). We observed significant group differences in iFC of two seeds located in the left posterior reading network – left intraparietal sulcus (L.IPS) and left fusiform gyrus (L.FFG). Specifically, iFC between L.IPS and left middle frontal gyrus was significantly weaker in all dyslexia groups, irrespective of remediation status/literacy competence, suggesting that persistent dysfunction in the fronto-parietal attention network characterizes dyslexia. Additionally, relative to both TDC and the no remediation group, the remediation groups exhibited stronger iFC between L.FFG and right middle occipital gyrus (R.MOG). The full remediation group also exhibited stronger negative iFC between the same L.FFG seed and right medial prefrontal cortex (R.MPFC), a core region of the default network These results suggest that behavioral remediation may be associated with compensatory changes anchored in L.FFG, which reflect atypically stronger coupling between posterior visual regions (L.FFG-R.MOG) and greater functional segregation between task-positive and task-negative regions (L.FFG-R.MPFC). These findings were bolstered by significant relationships between the strength of the identified functional connections and literacy scores. We conclude that examining iFC can reveal cortical signatures of dyslexia with particular promise for monitoring neural changes associated with behavioral remediation. PMID:23408984

Platelet-rich plasma in rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized study.

PubMed

Malavolta, Eduardo Angeli; Gracitelli, Mauro Emilio Conforto; Ferreira Neto, Arnaldo Amado; Assunção, Jorge Henrique; Bordalo-Rodrigues, Marcelo; de Camargo, Olavo Pires

2014-10-01

Although platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used in rotator cuff repair, most authors have been unable to report the advantages of this method in clinical trials. The use of PRP promotes better functional and structural results in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind study with 2 groups of 27 patients each (PRP group and control group). Complete supraspinatus tears with retraction of less than 3 cm were subjected to arthroscopic single-row repair; at the end of the surgical procedure, liquid PRP prepared by apheresis was given to the patients in the PRP group with autologous thrombin. The outcomes were assessed by the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and Constant scales, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. The significance level was 5%. The 2 groups of patients exhibited significant clinical improvement (P < .001). Between the preoperative assessment and 24-month follow-up, the mean UCLA score increased from 13.63 ± 3.639 to 32.70 ± 3.635 and from 13.93 ± 4.649 to 32.44 ± 4.318 in the control and PRP groups, respectively (P = .916). The mean Constant score increased from 47.37 ± 11.088 to 85.15 ± 9.879 in the control group and from 46.96 ± 11.937 to 84.78 ± 14.048 in the PRP group (P = .498). The mean VAS score varied from 7.00 ± 1.939 and 6.67 ± 1.617 before surgery to 1.15 ± 1.916 and 0.96 ± 2.244 at the 24-month assessment in the control and PRP groups, respectively (P = .418). The only difference was in the mean UCLA score at 12 months, with 30.04 ± 4.528 in the control group and 32.30 ± 3.506 in the PRP group (P = .046). The control group exhibited 1 case of a complete retear and 4 partial retears, and the PRP group exhibited 2 cases of partial retears (P = .42). Platelet-rich plasma prepared by apheresis and applied in the liquid state with thrombin did not promote better clinical results at 24-month follow-up. Given the numbers available for analysis, the retear rate also did not change. © 2014 The Author(s).

A web-based training program using cognitive behavioral therapy to alleviate psychological distress among employees: randomized controlled pilot trial.

PubMed

Mori, Makiko; Tajima, Miyuki; Kimura, Risa; Sasaki, Norio; Somemura, Hironori; Ito, Yukio; Okanoya, June; Yamamoto, Megumi; Nakamura, Saki; Tanaka, Katsutoshi

2014-12-02

A number of psychoeducational programs based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to alleviate psychological distress have been developed for implementation in clinical settings. However, while these programs are considered critical components of stress management education in a workplace setting, they are required to be brief and simple to implement, which can hinder development. The intent of the study was to examine the effects of a brief training program based on CBT in alleviating psychological distress among employees and facilitating self-evaluation of stress management skills, including improving the ability to recognize dysfunctional thinking patterns, transform dysfunctional thoughts to functional ones, cope with stress, and solve problems. Of the 187 employees at an information technology company in Tokyo, Japan, 168 consented to participate in our non-blinded randomized controlled study. The training group received CBT group education by a qualified CBT expert and 1 month of follow-up Web-based CBT homework. The effects of this educational program on the psychological distress and stress management skills of employees were examined immediately after completion of training and then again after 6 months. Although the training group did exhibit lower mean scores on the Kessler-6 (K6) scale for psychological distress after 6 months, the difference from the control group was not significant. However, the ability of training group participants to recognize dysfunctional thinking was significantly improved both immediately after training completion and after 6 months. While the ability of participants to cope with stress was not significantly improved immediately after training, improvement was noted after 6 months in the training group. No notable improvements were observed in the ability of participants to transform thoughts from dysfunctional to functional or in problem-solving skills. A sub-analysis of participants who initially exhibited clinically significant psychological distress (K6 score ≥5) showed that the mean K6 score was significantly improved immediately after training completion for the training group compared to the control group (-2.50 vs -0.07; mean difference 2.43, 95% CI 0.55-4.31; d=0.61), with this effect remaining even after 6 months (-3.49 vs -0.50; mean difference 2.99, 95% CI 0.70-5.29; d=0.60). Our results suggest that a brief stress management program that combines group CBT education with Web-based CBT homework moderately alleviates the distress of employees with clinically significant psychological distress. In addition, the program might help improve employees' ability to evaluate their own stress management skills.

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

Exhibition of stochastic resonance in vestibular tilt motion perception.

PubMed

Galvan-Garza, R C; Clark, T K; Mulavara, A P; Oman, C M

2018-04-03

Stochastic Resonance (SR) is a phenomenon broadly described as "noise benefit". The application of subsensory electrical Stochastic Vestibular Stimulation (SVS) via electrodes behind each ear has been used to improve human balance and gait, but its effect on motion perception thresholds has not been examined. This study investigated the capability of subsensory SVS to reduce vestibular motion perception thresholds in a manner consistent with a characteristic bell-shaped SR curve. We measured upright, head-centered, roll tilt Direction Recognition (DR) thresholds in the dark in 12 human subjects with the application of wideband 0-30 Hz SVS ranging from ±0-700 μA. To conservatively assess if SR was exhibited, we compared the proportions of both subjective and statistical SR exhibition in our experimental data to proportions of SR exhibition in multiple simulation cases with varying underlying SR behavior. Analysis included individual and group statistics. As there is not an established mathematical definition, three humans subjectively judged that SR was exhibited in 78% of subjects. "Statistically significant SR exhibition", which additionally required that a subject's DR threshold with SVS be significantly lower than baseline (no SVS), was present in 50% of subjects. Both percentages were higher than simulations suggested could occur simply by chance. For SR exhibitors, defined by subjective or statistically significant criteria, the mean DR threshold improved by -30% and -39%, respectively. The largest individual improvement was -47%. At least half of the subjects were better able to perceive passive body motion with the application of subsensory SVS. This study presents the first conclusive demonstration of SR in vestibular motion perception. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantitative evaluation of variance in secondary dentition eruption among ethnic groups in Hawai'i.

PubMed

Greer, Mark H K; Loo, Kevin J

2003-03-01

Though little scientific evidence existed to support the belief among dentists who treat Pacific Islander populations that many children of the region erupt secondary teeth earlier and at an eruption rate which exceeds Caucasian children. Based upon a data set created in Hawai'i during the 1998-1999 school year, of 26,097 public school children, the opportunity presented itself to examine for variance in eruption timing and sequence. Hawai'i is an ethnic diverse community, with a majority population comprised of Asians and Pacific Islanders. Children, 5 through 9 years of age, were examined for gender and ethnic variance. In the aggregate, at all ages, girls erupted teeth earlier than boys, however, while generally true among individual tooth types, that variance was not always statistically significant. By ethnic group, African Americans exhibited earlier eruption by contrast with Caucasians, however, Caucasian children caught up by nine years of age. Native Hawaiian, Samoan and Tongan children exhibited earlier and high rates of secondary dentition eruption than Caucasian or African American children. Children of various Asian cohorts did not exhibit significant variance by contrast with Caucasians. Based upon these findings, the authors recommend that dietary fluoride supplementation of Native Hawaiian, Samoan and Tongan children begin at birth rather than 6 months of age and that these children be targeted for pit & fissure sealants as early as five years of age.

Age-related increase in brain activity during task-related and -negative networks and numerical inductive reasoning

PubMed Central

Sun, Li; Liang, Peipeng; Jia, Xiuqin; Qi, Zhigang; Li, Kuncheng

2014-01-01

Objective: Recent neuroimaging studies have shown that elderly adults exhibit increased and decreased activation on various cognitive tasks, yet little is known about age-related changes in inductive reasoning. Methods: To investigate the neural basis for the aging effect on inductive reasoning, 15 young and 15 elderly subjects performed numerical inductive reasoning while in a magnetic resonance (MR) scanner. Results: Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis revealed that numerical inductive reasoning, relative to rest, yielded multiple frontal, temporal, parietal, and some subcortical area activations for both age groups. In addition, the younger participants showed significant regions of task-induced deactivation, while no deactivation occurred in the elderly adults. Direct group comparisons showed that elderly adults exhibited greater activity in regions of task-related activation and areas showing task-induced deactivation (TID) in the younger group. Conclusions: Our findings suggest an age-related deficiency in neural function and resource allocation during inductive reasoning. PMID:25337240

Endurance- and Resistance-Trained Men Exhibit Lower Cardiovascular Responses to Psychosocial Stress Than Untrained Men.

PubMed

Gröpel, Peter; Urner, Maren; Pruessner, Jens C; Quirin, Markus

2018-01-01

Evidence shows that regular physical exercise reduces physiological reactivity to psychosocial stress. However, previous research mainly focused on the effect of endurance exercise, with only a few studies looking at the effect of resistance exercise. The current study tested whether individuals who regularly participate in either endurance or resistance training differ from untrained individuals in adrenal and cardiovascular reactivity to psychosocial stress. Twelve endurance-trained men, 10 resistance-trained men, and 12 healthy but untrained men were exposed to a standardized psychosocial stressor, the Trier Social Stress Test. Measurements of heart rate, free salivary cortisol levels, and mood were obtained throughout the test and compared among the three groups. Overall, both endurance- and resistance-trained men had lower heart rate levels than untrained men, indicating higher cardiac performance of the trained groups. Trained men also exhibited lower heart rate responses to psychosocial stress compared with untrained men. There were no significant group differences in either cortisol responses or mood responses to the stressor. The heart rate results are consistent with previous studies indicating reduced cardiovascular reactivity to psychosocial stress in trained individuals. These findings suggest that long-term endurance and resistance trainings may be related to the same cardiovascular benefits, without exhibiting strong effects on the cortisol reactivity to stress.

Network Disruption in the Preclinical Stages of Alzheimer's Disease: From Subjective Cognitive Decline to Mild Cognitive Impairment.

PubMed

López-Sanz, David; Garcés, Pilar; Álvarez, Blanca; Delgado-Losada, María Luisa; López-Higes, Ramón; Maestú, Fernando

2017-12-01

Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) is a largely unknown state thought to represent a preclinical stage of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) previous to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, the course of network disruption in these stages is scarcely characterized. We employed resting state magnetoencephalography in the source space to calculate network smallworldness, clustering, modularity and transitivity. Nodal measures (clustering and node degree) as well as modular partitions were compared between groups. The MCI group exhibited decreased smallworldness, clustering and transitivity and increased modularity in theta and beta bands. SCD showed similar but smaller changes in clustering and transitivity, while exhibiting alterations in the alpha band in opposite direction to those showed by MCI for modularity and transitivity. At the node level, MCI disrupted both clustering and nodal degree while SCD showed minor changes in the latter. Additionally, we observed an increase in modular partition variability in both SCD and MCI in theta and beta bands. SCD elders exhibit a significant network disruption, showing intermediate values between HC and MCI groups in multiple parameters. These results highlight the relevance of cognitive concerns in the clinical setting and suggest that network disorganization in AD could start in the preclinical stages before the onset of cognitive symptoms.

Otitis Media and Language Development at 1 Year of Age.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace, Ina F.; And Others

1988-01-01

Fifteen 1-year-olds without otitis media were compared to 12 babies who were otitis positive. No significant differences were detected on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development or the Sequenced Inventory of Communication Development (SICD) Receptive scale. However, the otitis-positive group exhibited lower SICD Expressive scores than the…

The Impact of Left and Right Intracranial Tumors on Picture and Word Recognition Memory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldstein, Bram; Armstrong, Carol L.; Modestino, Edward; Ledakis, George; John, Cameron; Hunter, Jill V.

2004-01-01

This study investigated the effects of left and right intracranial tumors on picture and word recognition memory. We hypothesized that left hemispheric (LH) patients would exhibit greater word recognition memory impairment than right hemispheric (RH) patients, with no significant hemispheric group picture recognition memory differences. The LH…

Mental Disorders in Five-Year-Old Children with or without Developmental Delay: Focus on ADHD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baker, Bruce L.; Neece, Cameron L.; Fenning, Rachel M.; Crnic, Keith A.; Blacher, Jan

2010-01-01

Epidemiological studies of children and adolescents with intellectual disability have found 30 to 50% exhibiting clinically significant behavior problems. Few studies, however, have assessed young children, included a cognitively typical comparison group, assessed for specific disorders, and/or studied family correlates of diagnosis. We assessed…

Synthesis and In Vitro Cytotoxicity of the 4-(Halogenoanilino)-6-bromoquinazolines and Their 6-(4-Fluorophenyl) Substituted Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase

PubMed Central

Paumo, Hugues K.

2017-01-01

Series of the 2-unsubstituted and 2-(4-chlorophenyl)–substituted 4-anilino-6-bromoquinazolines and their 6-(4-fluorophenyl)–substituted derivatives were evaluated for in vitro cytotoxicity against MCF-7 and HeLa cells. The 2-unsubstituted 4-anilino-6-bromoquinazolines lacked activity, whereas most of their 2-(4-chlorophenyl) substituted derivatives were found to exhibit significant cytotoxicity and selectivity against HeLa cells. Replacement of bromine with 4-fluorophenyl group for the 2-unsubstituted 4-anilinoquinazolines resulted in superior activity against HeLa cells compared to Gefitinib. The presence of a 4-fluorophenyl group in the 2-(4-chlorophenyl) substituted derivatives led to increased cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, except for the 3-chloroanilino derivative. The most active compounds, namely, 3g, 3l, and 4l, were found to exhibit a moderate to significant inhibitory effect against epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (EGFR-TK). The EGFR molecular docking model suggested that these compounds are nicely bound to the region of EGFR. PMID:29156606

Fracture load and failure analysis of zirconia single crowns veneered with pressed and layered ceramics after chewing simulation.

PubMed

Stawarczyk, Bogna; Ozcan, Mutlu; Roos, Malgorzata; Trottmann, Albert; Hämmerle, Christoph H F

2011-01-01

This study determined the fracture load of zirconia crowns veneered with four overpressed and four layered ceramics after chewing simulation. The veneered zirconia crowns were cemented and subjected to chewing cycling. Subsequently, the specimens were loaded at an angle of 45° in a Universal Testing Machine to determine the fracture load. One-way ANOVA, followed by a post-hoc Scheffé test, t-test and Weibull statistic were performed. Overpressed crowns showed significantly lower fracture load (543-577 N) compared to layered ones (805-1067 N). No statistical difference was found between the fracture loads within the overpressed group. Within the layered groups, LV (1067 N) presented significantly higher results compared to LC (805 N). The mean values of all other groups were not significantly different. Single zirconia crowns veneered with overpressed ceramics exhibited lower fracture load than those of the layered ones after chewing simulation.

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.

Caspase-3 inhibitor prevents the apoptosis of brain tissue in rats with acute cerebral infarction.

PubMed

Sun, Yuhua; Xu, Yuming; Geng, Lijiao

2015-07-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the caspase-3 inhibitor z-DEVD-fmk on the apoptosis of the brain tissues of rats with acute cerebral infarction. Middle cerebral artery occlusion was used to establish a rat model of infarction, and the rats were randomly divided into a sham group (n=15), model group (n=15) and treatment group (n=15). z-DEVD-fmk (2.5 µg/kg) was injected into the intracranial artery of rats in the treatment group, while the same volume of phosphate-buffered saline solution was administered to the rats of the sham and model groups. After 48 h, all rats were sacrificed and their brain tissues were removed. The caspase-3 mRNA level, protein level and activity, brain cell apoptosis index and infarction scope of the three groups were analyzed. Neurological impairment was also assessed. At 48 h after model establishment, the caspase-3 mRNA and protein levels in the brain tissues of the model group were significantly higher than those of the sham group, and those in the treatment group were significantly lower than those in the model group (P<0.05); however, they remained significantly higher than those in the sham group. Caspase-3 activity in the model group was significantly higher than that in the sham group, and treatment with the caspase-3 inhibitor significantly reduced caspase-3 activity compared with that in the model group (P<0.05). The apoptosis index and infarction scope in the model and treatment groups were significantly increased compared with those in the sham group, and were significantly lower in the treatment group than in the model group (P<0.05). The neurological impairment of rats in the model and treatment groups was increased significantly compared with that in the sham group, and the treatment group exhibited a significantly lower level of neurological impairment than the model group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the caspase-3 inhibitor z-DEVD-fmk effectively inhibited apoptosis and delayed the necrosis of brain tissue cells in rats with acute cerebral infarction, and had certain protective effects on brain tissue.

Moderate Changes in the Circadian System of Alzheimer's Disease Patients Detected in Their Home Environment.

PubMed

Weissová, Kamila; Bartoš, Aleš; Sládek, Martin; Nováková, Marta; Sumová, Alena

2016-01-01

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease often accompanied with disruption of sleep-wake cycle. The sleep-wake cycle is controlled by mechanisms involving internal timekeeping (circadian) regulation. The aim of our present pilot study was to assess the circadian system in patients with mild form of AD in their home environment. In the study, 13 elderly AD patients and 13 age-matched healthy control subjects (the patient's spouses) were enrolled. Sleep was recorded for 21 days by sleep diaries in all participants and checked by actigraphy in 4 of the AD patient/control couples. The samples of saliva and buccal mucosa were collected every 4 hours during the same 24 h-interval to detect melatonin and clock gene (PER1 and BMAL1) mRNA levels, respectively. The AD patients exhibited significantly longer inactivity interval during the 24 h and significantly higher number of daytime naps than controls. Daily profiles of melatonin levels exhibited circadian rhythms in both groups. Compared with controls, decline in amplitude of the melatonin rhythm in AD patients was not significant, however, in AD patients more melatonin profiles were dampened or had atypical waveforms. The clock genes PER1 and BMAL1 were expressed rhythmically with high amplitudes in both groups and no significant differences in phases between both groups were detected. Our results suggest moderate differences in functional state of the circadian system in patients with mild form of AD compared with healthy controls which are present in conditions of their home dwelling.

Cognitive Inflexibility and Frontal-Cortical Activation in Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

PubMed Central

Britton, Jennifer C.; Rauch, Scott L.; Rosso, Isabelle M.; Killgore, William D.S.; Price, Lauren M.; Ragan, Jennifer; Chosak, Anne; Hezel, Dianne M.; Pine, Daniel S.; Leibenluft, Ellen; Pauls, David L.; Jenike, Michael A.; Stewart, S. Evelyn

2014-01-01

Objective Deficits in cognitive flexibility and response inhibition have been linked to perturbations in cortico-striatal-thalamic circuitry in adult obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Although similar cognitive deficits have been identified in pediatric OCD, few neuroimaging studies have been conducted to examine its neural correlates in the developing brain. In this study, we tested hypotheses regarding group differences in the behavioral and neural correlates of cognitive flexibility in a pediatric OCD and a healthy comparison (HC) sample. Method In this functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, a pediatric sample of 10- to 17-year-old subjects, 15 with OCD and 20 HC, completed a set-shifting task. The task, requiring an extradimensional shift to identify a target, examines cognitive flexibility. Within each block, the dimension (color or shape) that identified the target either alternated (i.e., mixed) or remained unchanged (i.e., repeated). Results Compared with the HC group, the OCD group tended to be slower to respond to trials within mixed blocks. Compared with the HC group, the OCD group exhibited less left inferior frontal gyrus/BA47 activation in the set-shifting contrast (i.e., HC > OCD, mixed versus repeated); only the HC group exhibited significant activation in this region. The correlation between set shifting-induced right caudate activation and shift cost (i.e., reaction time differential in response to mixed versus repeated trials) was significantly different between HC and OCD groups, in that we found a positive correlation in HC and a negative correlation in OCD. Conclusions In pediatric OCD, less fronto-striatal activation may explain previously identified deficits in shifting cognitive sets. PMID:20732630

Methods for quantitative measurement of tooth wear using the area and volume of virtual model cusps.

PubMed

Kim, Soo-Hyun; Park, Young-Seok; Kim, Min-Kyoung; Kim, Sulhee; Lee, Seung-Pyo

2018-04-01

Clinicians must examine tooth wear to make a proper diagnosis. However, qualitative methods of measuring tooth wear have many disadvantages. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate quantitative parameters using the cusp area and volume of virtual dental models. The subjects of this study were the same virtual models that were used in our former study. The same age group classification and new tooth wear index (NTWI) scoring system were also reused. A virtual occlusal plane was generated with the highest cusp points and lowered vertically from 0.2 to 0.8 mm to create offset planes. The area and volume of each cusp was then measured and added together. In addition to the former analysis, the differential features of each cusp were analyzed. The scores of the new parameters differentiated the age and NTWI groups better than those analyzed in the former study. The Spearman ρ coefficients between the total area and the area of each cusp also showed higher scores at the levels of 0.6 mm (0.6A) and 0.8A. The mesiolingual cusp (MLC) showed a statistically significant difference ( P <0.01) from the other cusps in the paired t -test. Additionally, the MLC exhibited the highest percentage of change at 0.6A in some age and NTWI groups. Regarding the age groups, the MLC showed the highest score in groups 1 and 2. For the NTWI groups, the MLC was not significantly different in groups 3 and 4. These results support the proposal that the lingual cusp exhibits rapid wear because it serves as a functional cusp. Although this study has limitations due to its cross-sectional nature, it suggests better quantitative parameters and analytical tools for the characteristics of cusp wear.

Inlay-retained cantilever fixed dental prostheses to substitute a single premolar: impact of zirconia framework design after dynamic loading.

PubMed

Shahin, Ramez; Tannous, Fahed; Kern, Matthias

2014-08-01

The purpose of this in-vitro study was to evaluate the influence of the framework design on the durability of inlay-retained cantilever fixed dental prostheses (IR-FDPs), made from zirconia ceramic, after artificial ageing. Forty-eight caries-free human premolars were prepared as abutments for all-ceramic cantilevered IR-FDPs using six framework designs: occlusal-distal (OD) inlay, OD inlay with an oral retainer wing, OD inlay with two retainer wings, mesial-occlusal-distal (MOD) inlay, MOD inlay with an oral retainer ring, and veneer partial coping with a distal box (VB). Zirconia IR-FDPs were fabricated via computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. The bonding surfaces were air-abraded (50 μm alumina/0.1 MPa), and the frameworks were bonded with adhesive resin cement. Specimens were stored for 150 d in a 37°C water bath during which they were thermocycled between 5 and 55°C for 37,500 cycles; thereafter, they were exposed to 600,000 cycles of dynamic loading with a 5-kg load in a chewing simulator. All surviving specimens were loaded onto the pontic and tested until failure using a universal testing machine. The mean failure load of the groups ranged from 260.8 to 746.7 N. Statistical analysis showed that both MOD groups exhibited significantly higher failure loads compared with the other groups (i.e. the three OD groups and the VB group) and that there was no significant difference in the failure load among the OD groups and the VB group. In conclusion, zirconia IR-FDPs with a modified design exhibited promising failure modes. © 2014 Eur J Oral Sci.

EMA analysis of tongue function in children with dysarthria following traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Murdoch, Bruce E; Goozée, Justine V

2003-01-01

To investigate the speed and accuracy of tongue movements exhibited by a sample of children with dysarthria following severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) during speech using electromagnetic articulography (EMA). Four children, aged between 12.75-17.17 years with dysarthria following TBI, were assessed using the AG-100 electromagnetic articulography system (Carstens Medizinelektronik). The movement trajectories of receiver coils affixed to each child's tongue were examined during consonant productions, together with a range of quantitative kinematic parameters. The children's results were individually compared against the mean values obtained by a group of eight control children (mean age of 14.67 years, SD 1.60). All four TBI children were perceived to exhibit reduced rates of speech and increased word durations. Objective EMA analysis revealed that two of the TBI children exhibited significantly longer consonant durations compared to the control group, resulting from different underlying mechanisms relating to speed generation capabilities and distances travelled. The other two TBI children did not exhibit increased initial consonant movement durations, suggesting that the vowels and/or final consonants may have been contributing to the increased word durations. The finding of different underlying articulatory kinematic profiles has important implications for the treatment of speech rate disturbances in children with dysarthria following TBI.

Longitudinal changes in quantitative and qualitative indicators of word and story recall in young-old and old-old adults.

PubMed

Small, B J; Dixon, R A; Hultsch, D F; Hertzog, C

1999-03-01

The present study examined longitudinal changes in quantitative and qualitative measures of episodic memory. The sample, taken from the Victoria Longitudinal Study, consisted of 158 young-old adults (initially 55 to 70 years old) and 84 old-old adults (initially 71 to 86 years old) who were tested three times over six years. Average word and text recall, as well as five indicators of qualitative aspects of word recall (e.g., number of categories recalled) and one indicator of structure of text recall (i.e., levels of information) were used. For word recall, although both age groups exhibited negative longitudinal changes in quantitative performance, overall qualitative performance was generally stable. Two qualitative indicators (number of categories and intrusions) showed modest decline and one (organization at recall) showed improvement. Results for overall text recall showed significant performance increments for the young-old group, whereas the old-old group exhibited slight declines in overall performance. Analyses of qualitative measures showed stable structure of hierarchical recall, with the old-old being impaired at all levels of detail in the stories. Overall results suggest that some underlying structural characteristics of word and text recall may be maintained into late life even when significant overall decline is observed.

Pathological Gambling in Parkinson's disease patients: Dopaminergic medication or personality traits fault?

PubMed

Brusa, L; Pavino, V; Massimetti, M C; Ceravolo, R; Stefani, S; Stanzione, P

2016-07-15

Impulse control disorders (ICDs) are clinically relevant in Parkinson disease (PD) patients, with an established association with PD medication. Aim of our study was to study whether the increased frequency of pathological gambling (PG), reported in subgroups of PD patients, is related to specific personality tracts additional to dopaminergic medications. Thirty-seven PD patients with a personal history of PG where enrolled. Twenty one PD patients, matched for disease and dopaminergic therapy, never experiencing PG, were enrolled as controls. All subjects were tested with the Minnesota Multiphasic Inventory Personality scales (MMPI-2). Our data showed that PD group with PG exhibited significantly higher mean values of the three validity scales in comparison to the non-PG-PD group, demonstrating an higher tendency to lie. Content scales showed a significant increase of cynicism and bizarre ideation scales score in the PG-PD group, not exhibiting pathological values at the validity scales, (p: 0.02) in comparison to non-PG PD patients. According to our results, PG seems to be associated with precise personality tracts. Personality profiles of cluster A personality disturbances - Axys 2 according with DSM-5 TR (paranoid type) at MMPI-2 might be a warning index helpful in selecting dopaminergic treatment, to avoid subsequent ICDs appearance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Anticholinesterase activity of 7-methoxyflavones isolated from Kaempferia parviflora.

PubMed

Sawasdee, Pattara; Sabphon, Chalisa; Sitthiwongwanit, Duangporn; Kokpol, Udom

2009-12-01

The rhizome of Kaempferia parviflora or kra-chai-dum (in Thai) is used traditionally as a folk medicine. The preliminary cholinesterase inhibitory screening of this plant extract exhibited significant acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities. Thirteen known methoxyflavones (1-13) were isolated and their structures were completely elucidated based on NMR analysis and compared with literature reports. Minor compounds 12-13 were reported for the first time from this species. The cholinesterase inhibitory test results showed that the highest potential inhibitors toward AChE and BChE were 5,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone (6) and 5,7-dimethoxyflavone (7), respectively, with the percentage inhibitory activity varying over 43-85%. The structure-activity relationship study led to the conclusion that compounds bearing 5,7-dimethoxy groups and a free substituent at C-3 had a significant inhibitory effect at a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL, but those bearing a 5-hydroxyl group reduced the inhibitory potency. On the other hand, flavones bearing a 3'- or 5'-methoxy group did not influence the inhibitory effect. Interestingly, 5,7-dimethoxyflavone (7) exhibited strong selectivity for BChE over AChE which may be of great interest to modify as a treatment agent for Alzheimer's disease. Copyright (c) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effects of single sex lab groups on physics self-efficacy, behavior, and academic performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunt, Gary L.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between the gender composition of a laboratory group and student behaviors, self-efficacy, and quiz performance, within the college physics laboratory. A student population was chosen and subdivided into two groups, which were assigned either same-sex or coed laboratory teams while executing identical laboratory activities and instruction. Assessments were carried out prior to instruction, during the course, and at the end of one semester worth of instruction and laboratory activities. Students were assessed in three areas: behaviors exhibited during laboratory activities, self-efficacy, and scores on laboratory quizzes. Analyses considered the differences in outcomes after a single semester of physics laboratories that differed only in team gender organization. The results indicated that there were no statistically significant differences in behavior variable, self-efficacy or laboratory quiz scores between same sex teams and coed teams. There were also no statistically significant differences between genders, and no interaction effect present. In a post-hoc analysis of the individual behaviors data, it was noted that there is present a practical difference in the individual behaviors exhibited by males and females. This difference implies a difference in how males and females successfully engage in the laboratory activities.

Convergent and divergent functional connectivity patterns in patients with long-term left-sided and right-sided deafness.

PubMed

Zhang, Yanyang; Mao, Zhiqi; Feng, Shiyu; Wang, Wenxin; Zhang, Jun; Yu, Xinguang

2018-02-05

Cortical reorganization may be induced in long-term single-sided deafness (SD); however, the influence of the deafness side on the functional changes remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated whole-brain functional connectivity patterns in long-term SD patients. The normalized voxel-based functional connectivity strength (FCS) was determined using resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) in 17 left-sided deafness (LD) patients, 21 right-sided deafness (RD) patients and 21 healthy controls (HCs). Relative to the HCs, both the LD and RD patients exhibited a reduction in the FCS in the ipsilateral visual cortex. However, compared to that in the HCs, a significantly higher FCS was observed in some regions in the salience and default-mode networks in the RD patients, but this FCS alternation pattern was not observed in the LD patients. A direct comparison of the two patient groups revealed a significantly increased FCS in the supplemental motor area in the LD group. Altogether, the long-term SD groups with LD and RD exhibited convergent and divergent functional connectivity patterns in whole-brain networks, providing promising evidence that the functional changes in long-term SD are highly deafness-side-dependent. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Biomechanical Evaluation of All-Polyethylene Pegged Bony Ingrowth Glenoid Fixation Techniques on Implant Micromotion.

PubMed

Wiater, Brett P; Moravek, James E; Kurdziel, Michael D; Baker, Kevin C; Wiater, J Michael

2016-01-01

Newer glenoid components that allow for hybrid cement fixation via traditional cementation of peripheral pegs and bony ingrowth into an interference-fit central peg introduce the possibility of long-term biological fixation. However, little biomechanical work has been done on the initial stability of these components and the various fixation options. We conducted a study in which all-polyethylene glenoid components with a centrally fluted peg were implanted in polyurethane blocks with interference-fit, hybrid cement, and fully cemented fixation (5 per fixation group). Biomechanical evaluation of glenoid loosening, according to ASTM Standard F-2028-12, subjected the glenoids to 50,000 cycles of rim loading, and glenoid component motion was recorded with 2 differential variable reluctance transducers fixed to each glenoid prosthesis. Fully cemented fixation exhibited significantly less mean distraction in comparison with interference-fit fixation (P < .001) and hybrid cement fixation (P < .001). Hybrid cement fixation exhibited significantly less distraction (P < .001), more compression (P < .001), and no significant difference in glenoid translation (P = .793) in comparison with interference-fit fixation. Fully cemented fixation exhibited the most resistance to glenoid motion in comparison with hybrid cement fixation and interference-fit fixation. However, hybrid cement fixation and interference-fit fixation exhibited equivocal motion. Given these results, cementation of peripheral pegs may confer no additional initial stability over that provided by uncemented interference-fit fixation.

Extremely preterm children exhibit increased interhemispheric connectivity for language: findings from fMRI-constrained MEG analysis.

PubMed

Barnes-Davis, Maria E; Merhar, Stephanie L; Holland, Scott K; Kadis, Darren S

2018-04-16

Children born extremely preterm are at significant risk for cognitive impairment, including language deficits. The relationship between preterm birth and neurological changes that underlie cognitive deficits is poorly understood. We use a stories-listening task in fMRI and MEG to characterize language network representation and connectivity in children born extremely preterm (n = 15, <28 weeks gestation, ages 4-6 years), and in a group of typically developing control participants (n = 15, term birth, 4-6 years). Participants completed a brief neuropsychological assessment. Conventional fMRI analyses revealed no significant differences in language network representation across groups (p > .05, corrected). The whole-group fMRI activation map was parcellated to define the language network as a set of discrete nodes, and the timecourse of neuronal activity at each position was estimated using linearly constrained minimum variance beamformer in MEG. Virtual timecourses were subjected to connectivity and network-based analyses. We observed significantly increased beta-band functional connectivity in extremely preterm compared to controls (p < .05). Specifically, we observed an increase in connectivity between left and right perisylvian cortex. Subsequent effective connectivity analyses revealed that hyperconnectivity in preterms was due to significantly increased information flux originating from the right hemisphere (p < 0.05). The total strength and density of the language network were not related to language or nonverbal performance, suggesting that the observed hyperconnectivity is a "pure" effect of prematurity. Although our extremely preterm children exhibited typical language network architecture, we observed significantly altered network dynamics, indicating reliance on an alternative neural strategy for the language task. © 2018 The Authors. Developmental Science Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Botulinum Toxin Dosing Trends in Spasmodic Dysphonia Over a 20-year Period.

PubMed

Namin, Arya W; Christopher, Kara M; Eisenbeis, John F

2017-01-01

The study aims to (1) identify the botulinum toxin (BTX) dosing trend in a cohort of patients who received at least 20 injections for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD), (2) describe two distinct BTX dosing trends in treating ADSD (a "classic" dosing trend that initially decreases before stabilizing, and a "fluctuating" dosing trend), and (3) determine if patients with the "classic" dosing trend differed in age or in dosing intervals from those with the "fluctuating" dosing trend. This is a retrospective case series. Of 149 patients who received a total of 2484 BTX injections for the treatment of spasmodic dysphonia in 1993-2013, 49 patients received at least 20 injections. The BTX dose and the interval between doses were recorded. The mean dose of injections 1-20 was determined. The age at initial injection, initial dose, and interval in days between treatments were compared for the "fluctuating" and "classic" groups. The cohort exhibits a significant decrease in dose during the first 10-15 injections. The "fluctuating" group had a significantly shorter interval between injections (mean interval = 97.09 days, SD = 29.41; mean interval = 136.90 days, SD = 43.76, P = 0.002). The mean age at initial dose was not significantly different between the "classic" and "fluctuating" groups. The average BTX dose of patients with ADSD who receive long-term injections significantly decreases during the initial 10-15 injections before stabilizing. Patients who exhibit the "fluctuating" dosing pattern have a significantly shorter interval between injections than those with the "classic" dosing pattern. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bleeding Efficiency and Meat Oxidative Stability and Microbiological Quality of New Zealand White Rabbits Subjected to Halal Slaughter without Stunning and Gas Stun-killing

PubMed Central

Nakyinsige, K.; Fatimah, A. B.; Aghwan, Z. A.; Zulkifli, I.; Goh, Y. M.; Sazili, A. Q.

2014-01-01

A study was conducted to compare the effect of halal slaughter without stunning and gas stun killing followed by bleeding on residual blood content and storage stability of rabbit meat. Eighty male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups of 40 animals each and subjected to either halal slaughter without stunning (HS) or gas stun-kill (GK). The volume of blood lost during exsanguination was measured. Residual blood was further quantified by determination of haemoglobin content in Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle. Storage stability of the meat was evaluated by microbiological analysis and measuring lipid oxidation in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). HS resulted in significantly higher blood loss than GK. HS had significantly lower residual haemoglobin in LL muscle compared to GK. Slaughter method had no effect on rabbit meat lipid oxidation at 0, 1, and 3 d postmortem. However, at 5 and 8 days of storage at 4°C, significant differences (p<0.05) were found, with meat from the GK group exhibiting significantly higher levels of MDA than that from HS. At day 3, greater growth of Pseudomonas aeroginosa and E. coli were observed in the GK group (p<0.05) with B. thermosphacta and total aerobic counts remained unaffected by slaughter method. At days 5 and 7 postmortem, bacterial counts for all tested microbes were affected by slaughter method, with GK exhibiting significantly higher growth than HS. It can be concluded that slaughter method can affect keeping quality of rabbit meat, and HS may be a favourable option compared to GK due to high bleed out. PMID:25049968

Bleeding Efficiency and Meat Oxidative Stability and Microbiological Quality of New Zealand White Rabbits Subjected to Halal Slaughter without Stunning and Gas Stun-killing.

PubMed

Nakyinsige, K; Fatimah, A B; Aghwan, Z A; Zulkifli, I; Goh, Y M; Sazili, A Q

2014-03-01

A study was conducted to compare the effect of halal slaughter without stunning and gas stun killing followed by bleeding on residual blood content and storage stability of rabbit meat. Eighty male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups of 40 animals each and subjected to either halal slaughter without stunning (HS) or gas stun-kill (GK). The volume of blood lost during exsanguination was measured. Residual blood was further quantified by determination of haemoglobin content in Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle. Storage stability of the meat was evaluated by microbiological analysis and measuring lipid oxidation in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). HS resulted in significantly higher blood loss than GK. HS had significantly lower residual haemoglobin in LL muscle compared to GK. Slaughter method had no effect on rabbit meat lipid oxidation at 0, 1, and 3 d postmortem. However, at 5 and 8 days of storage at 4°C, significant differences (p<0.05) were found, with meat from the GK group exhibiting significantly higher levels of MDA than that from HS. At day 3, greater growth of Pseudomonas aeroginosa and E. coli were observed in the GK group (p<0.05) with B. thermosphacta and total aerobic counts remained unaffected by slaughter method. At days 5 and 7 postmortem, bacterial counts for all tested microbes were affected by slaughter method, with GK exhibiting significantly higher growth than HS. It can be concluded that slaughter method can affect keeping quality of rabbit meat, and HS may be a favourable option compared to GK due to high bleed out.

Bond strengths of custom cast and prefabricated posts luted with two cements.

PubMed

Aleisa, Khalil Ibrahim

2011-02-01

This in vitro study evaluated the bond strength of custom cast and prefabricated posts luted with resin or zinc phosphate cements into unobturated canals of extracted teeth. Forty-eight custom cast and prefabricated posts were placed into extracted single-rooted human teeth. Post-cavity preparation was 1.5 mm in diameter and 10 mm in depth. Specimens were randomly divided into 4 groups of 12 each. Two of the groups were then luted with resin cement, while the other two groups were luted with zinc phosphate cement. A pull-out bond strength evaluation was performed using a universal testing machine. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to prove normal distribution. Data were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA and the Student t test (alpha = .05). For both luting agents, the prefabricated posts group exhibited significantly less bond strength than the custom cast posts group (P = .0001). There were statistically significant differences in mean bond strength for the prefabricated posts group luted with resin cement vs the group cemented with zinc phosphate cement (P = .002). There was no significant difference between the mean bond strength values of custom cast posts luted with resin cement or zinc phosphate cement. Custom cast posts showed significantly greater bond strength than prefabricated posts when luted with either resin or zinc phosphate cements. The type of cement had less significance on the retention of custom cast posts.

Effects of a pediatric weight management program with and without active video games a randomized trial.

PubMed

Trost, Stewart G; Sundal, Deborah; Foster, Gary D; Lent, Michelle R; Vojta, Deneen

2014-05-01

Active video games may offer an effective strategy to increase physical activity in overweight and obese children. However, the specific effects of active gaming when delivered within the context of a pediatric weight management program are unknown. To evaluate the effects of active video gaming on physical activity and weight loss in children participating in an evidence-based weight management program delivered in the community. Group-randomized clinical trial conducted during a 16-week period in YMCAs and schools located in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Texas. Seventy-five overweight or obese children (41 girls [55%], 34 whites [45%], 20 Hispanics [27%], and 17 blacks [23%]) enrolled in a community-based pediatric weight management program. Mean (SD) age of the participants was 10.0 (1.7) years; body mass index (BMI) z score, 2.15 (0.40); and percentage overweight from the median BMI for age and sex, 64.3% (19.9%). All participants received a comprehensive family-based pediatric weight management program (JOIN for ME). Participants in the program and active gaming group received hardware consisting of a game console and motion capture device and 1 active game at their second treatment session and a second game in week 9 of the program. Participants in the program-only group were given the hardware and 2 games at the completion of the 16-week program. Objectively measured daily moderate-to-vigorous and vigorous physical activity, percentage overweight, and BMI z score. Participants in the program and active gaming group exhibited significant increases in moderate-to-vigorous (mean [SD], 7.4 [2.7] min/d) and vigorous (2.8 [0.9] min/d) physical activity at week 16 (P < .05). In the program-only group, a decline or no change was observed in the moderate-to-vigorous (mean [SD] net difference, 8.0 [3.8] min/d; P = .04) and vigorous (3.1 [1.3] min/d; P = .02) physical activity. Participants in both groups exhibited significant reductions in percentage overweight and BMI z scores at week 16. However, the program and active gaming group exhibited significantly greater reductions in percentage overweight (mean [SD], -10.9%[1.6%] vs -5.5%[1.5%]; P = .02) and BMI z score (-0.25 [0.03] vs -0.11 [0.03]; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Incorporating active video gaming into an evidence-based pediatric weight management program has positive effects on physical activity and relative weight. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01757925.

Color stability of pigmented maxillofacial silicone elastomer: effects of nano-oxides as opacifiers.

PubMed

Han, Ying; Zhao, Yimin; Xie, Chao; Powers, John M; Kiat-amnuay, Sudarat

2010-01-01

This study evaluated the effects of nano-oxides on the color stability of pigmented silicone A-2186 maxillofacial prosthetic elastomers before and after artificial aging. Each of three widely used UV-shielding nano-sized particle oxides (TiO(2), ZnO, CeO(2)), based on recent survey of the industry at 1%, 2%, 2.5% concentrations were combined with each of five intrinsic silicone pigment types (no pigments, red, yellow, blue, and a mixture of the three pigments). Silicone A-2186 without nano-oxides or pigments served as control, for a total of 46 experimental groups of elastomers. In each group of the study, all specimens were aged in an artificial aging chamber for an energy exposure of 450kJ/m(2). CIE L*a*b* values were measured by a spectrophotometer. The 50:50% perceptibility (ΔE*=1.1) and acceptability threshold (ΔE*=3.0) were used in interpretation of recorded color differences. Color differences after aging were subjected to three-way analysis of variance. Means were compared by Fisher's PLSD intervals at the 0.05 level of significance. Yellow pigments mixed with all three nano-oxides at all intervals increased ΔE* values significantly from 3.7 up to 8.4. When mixed pigment groups were considered, TiO(2) at 2%, and 2.5% exhibited the smallest color changes, followed by ZnO and CeO(2), respectively (p<0.001). At 1%, CeO(2) exhibited the smallest color changes, followed by TiO(2) and ZnO, respectively (p<0.001). The smallest color differences, observed for nano-oxides groups, were recorded for CeO(2) at 1%, and TiO(2) at 2% and 2.5%. When the nano-oxides were tested at all concentrations, CeO(2) groups overall had the most color changes, and TiO(2) groups had the least. All ΔE* values of the mixed pigment groups were below the 50:50% acceptability threshold (ΔE*=1.2-2.3, below 3.0) except 2% CeO(2) (ΔE*=4.2). 1% nano-CeO(2) and 2% and 2.5% nano-TiO(2) used as opacifiers for silicone A-2186 maxillofacial prostheses with mixed pigments exhibited the least color changes when subjected to artificial aging at 450kJ/m(2). Yellow silicone pigment mixed with all three nano-oxides significantly affected color stability of A-2186 silicone elastomer. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mechanical and Histological Effects of Resorbable Blasting Media Surface Treatment on the Initial Stability of Orthodontic Mini-Implants

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Introduction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of resorbable blasting media (RBM) treatment on early stability of orthodontic mini-implants by mechanical, histomorphometric, and histological analyses. Methods. Ninety-six (64 for mechanical study and 32 for histological study and histomorphometric analysis) titanium orthodontic mini-implants (OMIs) with machined (machined group) or RBM-treated (CaP) surface (RBM group) were implanted in the tibiae of 24 rabbits. Maximum initial torque (MIT) was measured during insertion, and maximum removal torque (MRT) and removal angular momentum (RAM) were measured at 2 and 4 weeks after implantation. Bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and bone area (BA) were analyzed at 4 weeks after implantation. Results. RBM group exhibited significantly lower MIT and significantly higher MRT and RAM at 2 weeks than machined group. No significant difference in MRT, RAM, and BIC between the two groups was noted at 4 weeks, although BA was significantly higher in RBM group than in machined group. RBM group showed little bone resorption, whereas machined group showed new bone formation after bone resorption. Conclusions. RBM surface treatment can provide early stability of OMIs around 2 weeks after insertion, whereas stability of machined surface OMIs may decrease in early stages because of bone resorption, although it can subsequently recover by new bone apposition. PMID:26942200

Regulatory and activated effector T cells in chronic hepatitis C virus: Relation to autoimmunity

PubMed Central

Fouad, Hanan; El Raziky, Maissa; Hassan, Eman Medhat; Aziz, Ghada Mahmoud Abdel; Darweesh, Samar K; Sayed, Ahmed Reda

2016-01-01

AIM To investigate how Tregs are regulated in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients via assessment of Tregs markers (granzyme 2, CD69 and FoxP3), Teffs markers [TNFRSF4 (OX40), INFG] and CD4, CD25 genes. METHODS A prospective study was conducted on 120 subjects divided into 4 groups: Group I (n = 30) treatment naïve chronic HCV patients; Group II (n = 30) chronic HCV treated with Peg/Riba; Group III (n = 30) chronic HCV associated with non-organ specific autoantibody and Group IV (n = 30) healthy persons as a control group. Tregs and Teffs markers were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by quantitative real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Chronic HCV patients exhibited significant higher levels of both Teffs and Tregs in comparison to healthy control group. Tregs markers were significantly decreased in Peg/Riba treated HCV patients in comparison to treatment naïve HCV group. In HCV patients with antinuclear antibody (ANA) +ve, Tregs markers were significantly decreased in comparison to all other studied groups. Teffs markers were significantly elevated in all HCV groups in comparison to control and in HCV group with ANA +ve in comparison to treatment naïve HCV group. CONCLUSION Elevated Tregs cells in chronic HCV patients dampen both CD4+ and CD8+ autologous T cell immune response. Interferon-α and ribavirin therapy suppress proliferation of Tregs. More significant suppression of Tregs was observed in HCV patients with autoantibodies favoring pathological autoimmune response. PMID:27843539

Generalization of Auditory Sensory and Cognitive Learning in Typically Developing Children.

PubMed

Murphy, Cristina F B; Moore, David R; Schochat, Eliane

2015-01-01

Despite the well-established involvement of both sensory ("bottom-up") and cognitive ("top-down") processes in literacy, the extent to which auditory or cognitive (memory or attention) learning transfers to phonological and reading skills remains unclear. Most research has demonstrated learning of the trained task or even learning transfer to a closely related task. However, few studies have reported "far-transfer" to a different domain, such as the improvement of phonological and reading skills following auditory or cognitive training. This study assessed the effectiveness of auditory, memory or attention training on far-transfer measures involving phonological and reading skills in typically developing children. Mid-transfer was also assessed through untrained auditory, attention and memory tasks. Sixty 5- to 8-year-old children with normal hearing were quasi-randomly assigned to one of five training groups: attention group (AG), memory group (MG), auditory sensory group (SG), placebo group (PG; drawing, painting), and a control, untrained group (CG). Compliance, mid-transfer and far-transfer measures were evaluated before and after training. All trained groups received 12 x 45-min training sessions over 12 weeks. The CG did not receive any intervention. All trained groups, especially older children, exhibited significant learning of the trained task. On pre- to post-training measures (test-retest), most groups exhibited improvements on most tasks. There was significant mid-transfer for a visual digit span task, with highest span in the MG, relative to other groups. These results show that both sensory and cognitive (memory or attention) training can lead to learning in the trained task and to mid-transfer learning on a task (visual digit span) within the same domain as the trained tasks. However, learning did not transfer to measures of language (reading and phonological awareness), as the PG and CG improved as much as the other trained groups. Further research is required to investigate the effects of various stimuli and lengths of training on the generalization of sensory and cognitive learning to literacy skills.

A randomised controlled trial of an SMS-based mobile epilepsy education system.

PubMed

Lua, Pei Lin; Neni, Widiasmoro Selamat

2013-01-01

We evaluated an epilepsy education programme based on text messaging (SMS). Epilepsy outpatients from three hospitals in Malaysia were randomised into two groups: intervention and control. Patients in the control group were supplied with printed epilepsy educational material while those in the intervention group also received text messages from the Mobile Epilepsy Educational System (MEES). A total of 136 patients completed the study (mean age 31 years; 91% Malay; 51% with an illness duration of more than 5 years). A between-group analysis showed that the awareness, knowledge and attitudes (AKA) about epilepsy did not significantly differ between the groups at baseline (P > 0.05). The intervention patients reported better AKA levels during follow-up compared to the control patients (P < 0.05). A within-group analysis showed that in intervention patients, there were significant improvements in all AKA domains with larger effect sizes (P < 0.01) while control patients also exhibited significant improvement in most domains except for Awareness but with smaller effect sizes. After controlling for possible confounding variables (age, gender, educational qualification, monthly income and baseline mean for each domain), the intervention group still reported significantly higher AKA than the control group particularly in Awareness (P < 0.001) and Total AKA (P = 0.003). There was also significantly better medication adherence and clinic attendance in the intervention group (P < 0.05). The results suggest that the addition of the MEES to conventional epilepsy education is effective in improving AKA.

Severe maternal undernutrition and post-weaning behavior of rabbits.

PubMed

Simitzis, Panagiotis E; Symeon, George K; Kominakis, Antonios P; Bizelis, Iosif A; Chadio, Stella E; Abas, Zafeiris; Deligeorgis, Stelios G

2015-03-15

The objective of the present experiment was to investigate the implications of severe maternal undernutrition on the post-weaning behavior of rabbits. Thirty two does were randomly assigned to four groups: the control group (C) that was fed 100% of the recommended energy maintenance requirements throughout pregnancy and lactation and the U1, U2 and U3 groups that were fed 50% of the recommended energy maintenance requirements between the 6th and the 19th day of pregnancy, between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy and between the 3rd and the 10th day of lactation, respectively. At the age of 50 and 65 days, behavior of rabbits in cages was recorded and rabbits were further subjected to an open-field test; a paradigm used as an indicator of fear and emotional distress. Significant differences were found between the U2 and the other experimental groups for the duration of eating and drinking, and duration of locomotory and investigatory behaviors (P<0.05). At the age of 65 days, duration of comfort behaviors was also lower in the U2 compared to the other groups (P<0.05). On the other hand, duration of resting appeared to be the highest in the group of rabbits born from undernourished does between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy (P<0.05). Duration of resting was significantly increased, although frequency and duration of eating and drinking were significantly decreased at the age of 65 days (P<0.05). Male rabbits had greater values for locomotory and investigatory behaviors, and duration of eating and drinking compared to the females (P<0.01). A decreased activity of rabbits during the light period was observed (as expected), whereas an increase in duration of locomotory and investigatory behaviors was observed during the first four and the last 4h of the light and dark periods, respectively (P<0.05). Rabbits born from the U1 and U2 group of does displayed increased rates of latency to leave the start position compared to the other groups during the implementation of the open-field test (P<0.05). No other significant differences in the exhibition of the examined behaviors were found between the treatment groups, with the exception of 'moving forelegs' activity that had the lowest value in the U3 group of rabbits. It is concluded that severe maternal undernutrition (50% of the recommended maintenance requirements) especially between the 20th and the 27th day of pregnancy has significant effects on the exhibition of rabbits' post-weaning behavior, since the offspring from the U2 undernourished does were significantly less active compared to the other experimental groups. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Integrated microRNA and gene expression profiling reveals the crucial miRNAs in curcumin anti-lung cancer cell invasion.

PubMed

Zhan, Jian-Wei; Jiao, De-Min; Wang, Yi; Song, Jia; Wu, Jin-Hong; Wu, Li-Jun; Chen, Qing-Yong; Ma, Sheng-Lin

2017-09-01

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) has chemopreventive and therapeutic properties against many types of tumors, both in vitro and in vivo. Previous reports have shown that curcumin exhibits anti-invasive activities, but the mechanisms remain largely unclear. In this study, both microRNA (miRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression profiles were used to characterize the anti-metastasis mechanisms of curcumin in human non-small cell lung cancer A549 cell line. Microarray analysis revealed that 36 miRNAs were differentially expressed between the curcumin-treated and control groups. miR-330-5p exhibited maximum upregulation, while miR-25-5p exhibited maximum downregulation in the curcumin treatment group. mRNA expression profiles and functional analysis indicated that 226 differentially expressed mRNAs belonged to different functional categories. Significant pathway analysis showed that mitogen-activated protein kinase, transforming growth factor-β, and Wnt signaling pathways were significantly downregulated. At the same time, axon guidance, glioma, and ErbB tyrosine kinase receptor signaling pathways were significantly upregulated. We constructed a miRNA gene network that contributed to the curcumin inhibition of metastasis in lung cancer cells. let-7a-3p, miR-1262, miR-499a-5p, miR-1276, miR-331-5p, and miR-330-5p were identified as key microRNA regulators in the network. Finally, using miR-330-5p as an example, we confirmed the role of miR-330-5p in mediating the anti-migration effect of curcumin, suggesting the importance of miRNAs in the regulation of curcumin biological activity. Our findings provide new insights into the anti-metastasis mechanism of curcumin in lung cancer. © 2017 The Authors. Thoracic Cancer published by China Lung Oncology Group and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Suicide Communication on Social Media and Its Psychological Mechanisms: An Examination of Chinese Microblog Users

PubMed Central

Cheng, Qijin; Kwok, Chi Leung; Zhu, Tingshao; Guan, Li; Yip, Paul S. F.

2015-01-01

Background: This study aims to examine the characteristics of people who talk about suicide on Chinese microblogs (referred to as Weibo suicide communication (WSC)), and the psychological antecedents of such behaviors. Methods: An online survey was conducted on Weibo users. Differences in psychological and social demographic characteristics between those who exhibited WSC and those who did not were examined. Three theoretical models were proposed to explain the psychological mechanisms of WSC and their fitness was examined by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: 12.03% of our respondents exhibited WSC in the past 12 months. The WSC group was significantly younger and less educated, preferred using blogs and online forums for expressing themselves, and reported significantly greater suicide ideation, negative affectivity, and vulnerable personality compared to non-WSC users. SEM examinations found that Weibo users with higher negative affectivity or/and suicidal ideation, who were also using blogs and forums more, exhibited a significantly higher possibility of WSC. Conclusion: Weibo users who are at greater suicide risk are more likely to talk about suicide on Weibo. WSC is a sign of negative affectivity or suicide ideation, and should be responded to with emotional support and suicide prevention services. PMID:26378566

Suicide Communication on Social Media and Its Psychological Mechanisms: An Examination of Chinese Microblog Users.

PubMed

Cheng, Qijin; Kwok, Chi Leung; Zhu, Tingshao; Guan, Li; Yip, Paul S F

2015-09-11

This study aims to examine the characteristics of people who talk about suicide on Chinese microblogs (referred to as Weibo suicide communication (WSC)), and the psychological antecedents of such behaviors. An online survey was conducted on Weibo users. Differences in psychological and social demographic characteristics between those who exhibited WSC and those who did not were examined. Three theoretical models were proposed to explain the psychological mechanisms of WSC and their fitness was examined by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). 12.03% of our respondents exhibited WSC in the past 12 months. The WSC group was significantly younger and less educated, preferred using blogs and online forums for expressing themselves, and reported significantly greater suicide ideation, negative affectivity, and vulnerable personality compared to non-WSC users. SEM examinations found that Weibo users with higher negative affectivity or/and suicidal ideation, who were also using blogs and forums more, exhibited a significantly higher possibility of WSC. Weibo users who are at greater suicide risk are more likely to talk about suicide on Weibo. WSC is a sign of negative affectivity or suicide ideation, and should be responded to with emotional support and suicide prevention services.

The effect of time-management training on employee attitudes and behavior: a field experiment.

PubMed

Orpen, C

1994-07-01

This field experiment tested for the effect of time-management training on 56 employees at an Australian manufacturing company, half of whom attended a 3-day training program and half of whom did not. The training group subjects rated their management of time significantly higher after the program than did the group who did not attend the training program. The diary entries of the trained subjects over a 2-week period after the training program were also rated by three superiors as exhibiting significantly better time management than the diary entries of the untrained group. Given that subjects had been randomly assigned to the two conditions, these results suggest that appropriate training can cause employees to improve how they manage their time at work.

The effects of mobile applications in cardiopulmonary assessment education.

PubMed

Yoo, In-Young; Lee, Young-Mi

2015-02-01

Mobile applications can be used as effective simulations for nursing education. However, little is known regarding the effects of mobile application-mediated training on nursing. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of mobile applications by comparing the effectiveness of a high-fidelity human patient simulator to that of a mobile application on student learning. Following lectures on the lungs and the heart, twenty-two students were separated into two groups to perform a simulation exercise. Then, the students' education effects were evaluated based on their knowledge of lung and heart assessments, their clinical assessment skill, and satisfaction with their education. After four weeks, the mobile application group maintained their knowledge, whereas the high-fidelity human patient simulator group exhibited significantly decreased knowledge of the lung assessment. Knowledge of the heart assessment was significantly increased in both groups. There was no significant difference in clinical assessment skill or educational satisfaction between the groups. We found that mobile applications provide educational tools similarly effective to a high-fidelity human patient simulator to maintain memory and to teach cardiopulmonary assessment skills. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of Hibiscus rosa sinensis L (Malvaceae) on wound healing activity: a preclinical study in a Sprague Dawley rat.

PubMed

Shivananda Nayak, B; Sivachandra Raju, S; Orette, F A; Chalapathi Rao, A V

2007-06-01

Hibiscus rosa sinensis (H rosa sinensis), a plant product, has been used for the treatment of a variety of diseases as well as to promote wound healing. The wound-healing activity of the ethanol extract of H rosa sinensis flower was determined in rats, using excision, incision, and dead space wound models and is presented in this report. The animals were randomly divided into 2 groups of 6 each in all the models. Test group animals in each model were treated with the ethanol extract of H rosa sinensis orally by mixing in drinking water (120 mg kg(-1) day(-1)), and the control group animals were maintained with plain drinking water. Healing was assessed by the rate of wound contraction, period of epithelialization, tensile strength (skin breaking strength), granulation tissue weight, and hydroxyproline content. The antimicrobial activity of the flower extract against selected microorganisms that infect the wounds was also assessed. Animals treated with the extract exhibited an 86% reduction in the wound area compared with controls, who exhibited a 75% reduction. The extract-treated animals were found to epithelize their wounds significantly faster than controls (P < .002) and have shown significantly higher skin-breaking strength than controls (P < .002). The dry and wet weight of granulation tissue and hydroxyproline content were also increased significantly when compared with controls. The reported observations suggest H rosa sinensis aids wound healing in the rat model.

Attention training improves aberrant neural dynamics during working memory processing in veterans with PTSD.

PubMed

McDermott, Timothy J; Badura-Brack, Amy S; Becker, Katherine M; Ryan, Tara J; Bar-Haim, Yair; Pine, Daniel S; Khanna, Maya M; Heinrichs-Graham, Elizabeth; Wilson, Tony W

2016-12-01

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with executive functioning deficits, including disruptions in working memory (WM). Recent studies suggest that attention training reduces PTSD symptomatology, but the underlying neural mechanisms are unknown. We used high-density magnetoencephalography (MEG) to evaluate whether attention training modulates brain regions serving WM processing in PTSD. Fourteen veterans with PTSD completed a WM task during a 306-sensor MEG recording before and after 8 sessions of attention training treatment. A matched comparison sample of 12 combat-exposed veterans without PTSD completed the same WM task during a single MEG session. To identify the spatiotemporal dynamics, each group's data were transformed into the time-frequency domain, and significant oscillatory brain responses were imaged using a beamforming approach. All participants exhibited activity in left hemispheric language areas consistent with a verbal WM task. Additionally, veterans with PTSD and combat-exposed healthy controls each exhibited oscillatory responses in right hemispheric homologue regions (e.g., right Broca's area); however, these responses were in opposite directions. Group differences in oscillatory activity emerged in the theta band (4-8 Hz) during encoding and in the alpha band (9-12 Hz) during maintenance and were significant in right prefrontal and right supramarginal and inferior parietal regions. Importantly, following attention training, these significant group differences were reduced or eliminated. This study provides initial evidence that attention training improves aberrant neural activity in brain networks serving WM processing.

Hypoglycemic and Hepatoprotective Activity of Fermented Fruit Juice of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) in Diabetic Rats

PubMed Central

Nayak, B. Shivananda; Marshall, Julien R.; Isitor, Godwin; Adogwa, Andrew

2011-01-01

Morinda citrifolia is a medicinal plant used to treat diabetes and liver diseases. The fermented fruit juice of the M. Citrifolia (optical density = 1.25) was used to study the hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective properties in diabetes-induced rats. The rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups (control, diabetic experimental, diabetic standard, and diabetic untreated) of 6 each. Diabetes was induced by administering Streptozotocin (50 mg/kg body weight). Fasting blood glucose, body mass, liver tissue glycogen content, and the extent of liver degeneration were assessed. Diabetic experimental animals were treated with M. citrifolia juice (2 ml/kg, twice a day) and diabetic standard with reference hypoglycemic drug, glibenclamide orally for 20 days. Both the groups exhibited a significant reduction in blood glucose level of 150 mg/dl ±15.88 and 125 mg/dl ±3.89, respectively, as compared to diabetic untreated with FBS = 360.0 mg/dl ±15.81, (P < .003). On 10th day of experiment, diabetic experimental animals exhibited a decrease in body mass (10.2 g, 5.11%) which increased significantly by the 20th day (6 g, 3.0%, P < .022). Histological study of liver tissue obtained from untreated diabetic animals revealed significant fatty degeneration as compared to other three groups. The data of this study proved the hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective activity of M. citrifolia. PMID:20981320

Community Pharmacists Assisting in Total Cardiovascular Health (CPATCH): A Cluster-Randomized, Controlled Trial Testing a Focused Adherence Strategy Involving Community Pharmacies.

PubMed

Blackburn, David F; Evans, Charity D; Eurich, Dean T; Mansell, Kerry D; Jorgenson, Derek J; Taylor, Jeff G; Semchuk, William M; Shevchuk, Yvonne M; Remillard, Alfred J; Tran, David A; Champagne, Anne P

2016-10-01

To test a brief intervention for preventing statin nonadherence among community pharmacy patrons. Prospective, cluster-randomized, controlled trial (the Community Pharmacists Assisting in Total Cardiovascular Health [CPATCH] trial). Thirty community pharmacies in Saskatchewan, Canada. Participating pharmacies were randomized to 15 intervention pharmacies where a brief statin adherence intervention was delivered by pharmacists (intervention group [907 patients]) or 15 usual care pharmacies where no statin adherence intervention was delivered (usual care group [999 patients]) to new users of statins (defined as less than 1 yr of statin therapy). Staff (pharmacy managers, staff pharmacists, and technicians) from intervention pharmacies attended a 2.5-hour workshop on the CPATCH program that prepared pharmacists to deal with the adherence barriers most likely associated with statin use (e.g., safety, cost, patient-provider relationship, and tolerability). Intervention pharmacists screened for new statin users and assessed these adherence barriers. Pharmacists were then instructed to tailor their follow-up plan based on the individual patient's situation. Investigators contacted the intervention pharmacies monthly to assess their compliance with the protocol and to offer additional support to motivate ongoing participation. The primary outcome was mean difference in statin adherence between the intervention and usual care groups. Adherence was measured by the proportion of days covered (PDC) between 6 and 12 months following the original prescription fill date. General estimating equations were used to evaluate the difference in mean adherence between groups. Secondary outcomes included the percentage of new statin users exhibiting optimal adherence (defined as PDC of 80% or higher) and the percentage exhibiting nonpersistence (defined as the cessation of all statin dispensations within 3 mo of the first dispensation). Among 1906 eligible patients, no significant differences in mean adherence were observed between those receiving the intervention and those receiving usual care (71.6% vs 70.9%, p=0.64), the percentage of patients achieving optimal adherence (57.3% vs 55.9%, p=0.51), or the percentage exhibiting nonpersistence (9.4% vs 8.3%, p=0.41). However, compliance to the study protocol was extremely low in several intervention pharmacies. In a post hoc analysis, a higher level of protocol compliance among intervention pharmacies was significantly associated with higher adherence (p<0.01 for trend). Pharmacies falling in the highest tertile of compliance to the study protocol exhibited higher mean adherence among their patients compared with those in the usual care group (β = 0.056, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.010-0.101, p=0.01), and a significantly higher percentage of patients achieving optimal adherence (odds ratio 1.32, 95% CI 1.08-1.61; p<0.01); however, nonpersistence did not significantly differ between the two groups (5.5% vs 8.3%, p=0.27). The CPATCH intervention was ineffective for improving patient adherence to statin therapy in community pharmacies. However, poor effectiveness may have resulted from a failure to deliver the protocol consistently in several intervention pharmacies. © 2016 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

Thermographic and clinical evaluation of 808-nm laser photobiomodulation effects after third molar extraction.

PubMed

Pedreira, Amanda A; Wanderley, Flavia G; Sa, Maira F; Viena, Camila S; Perez, Adriano; Hoshi, Ryuichi; Leite, Marcia P; Reis, Silvia R; Medrado, Alena P

2016-08-01

A randomized, blind, controlled clinical study was conducted with a convenience sample of 24 patients to evaluate the effectiveness of an aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs) infrared laser 808 nm after third molar extraction by the use of infrared thermography technique. Patients were divided into four groups: erupted third molars were extracted from the patients in Group I and Group II, and impacted third molars were extracted from the patients in Group III and Group IV. Group I and Group III received mock laser therapy in which the device was powered off, and Group II and Group IV were exposed to laser light. Postoperative clinical parameters related to the third molar extraction were evaluated; these parameters included pain, trismus and edema. Circulatory patterns were also evaluated by infrared thermography that exhibited local temperature coefficient at different postoperative periods. A slight improvement was observed for swelling, pain and trismus in patients who received laser irradiation, although the differences were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Laser therapy had a significant influence on the local circulation in the area near the temporomandibular joint, as determined by infrared thermography (P<0.05). Laser therapy was able to change the local circulation, although it did not significantly influence swelling, pain or trismus during the postoperative period.

Lemon balm: A promising herbal therapy for patients with borderline hyperlipidemia-A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Jandaghi, Parisa; Noroozi, Mostafa; Ardalani, Hamidreza; Alipour, Mahmoud

2016-06-01

Melissa officinalis is a perennial herb from the Lamiaceae family which has shown to have modulating effects on serum lipid profile. The aim of the current study is to explore the effects of M. officinalis supplementation on serum biochemical parameters of patients with borderline hyperlipidemia. 58 hyperlipidemic patients were allocated randomly to 2 groups: first group received capsules containing 1000mg M. officinalis leaf powder (MO group), and the second group received placebo capsules (P group) 3 times per day for 2 months. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), HDL, LDL, Triglyceride, Creatinine and liver function enzymes including AST and ALT were evaluated before and after study. The mean of LDL in MO group significantly decreased compared with P group after the supplementation (P=0.02). Although the level of Cholesterol, FBG, HDL, Triglyceride, Creatinine and ALT did not show significant difference between two groups after 2 months (P≥0.05), the level of AST exhibited a significant difference between two groups (P=0.009). Our findings demonstrated that M. officinalis supplementation as a rich source of antioxidants and bioactive compounds can be effective in remission of LDL and AST levels in patients with borderline hyperlipidemia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CD44+CD24+ subset of PANC-1 cells exhibits radiation resistance via decreased levels of reactive oxygen species.

PubMed

Wang, Lei; Li, Pengping; Hu, Wei; Xia, Youyou; Hu, Chenxi; Liu, Liang; Jiang, Xiaodong

2017-08-01

Emerging evidence has suggested that pancreatic adenocarcinoma is sustained by pancreatic cancer stem cells. The present study aimed to investigate the expression patterns of the pancreatic cancer stem cell surface markers cluster of differentiation CD44 and CD24 in a pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell line, and to investigate the possible mechanisms for their radiation resistance. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the expression patterns of CD44 and CD24 in the pancreatic adenocarcinoma PANC-1 cell line. In addition, a multi-target click model was used to fit cell survival curves and determine the sensitizer enhancement ratio. The apoptosis and cycle distribution of the four cell subsets was determined using flow cytometry, and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined using the 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate probe. The present results identified that the ratios of CD44 + and CD24 + in the sorted PANC-1 cell line were 92.0 and 4.7%, respectively. Prior to radiation, no statistically significant differences were observed among the four groups. Following treatment with 6 MV of X-rays, the rate of apoptosis was decreased in the CD44 + CD24 + group compared with other subsets. The percentage of G0/G1 cells was highest in the CD44 + CD24 + group compared with the three other groups, which exhibited increased radiosensitivity. In addition, the level of ROS in the CD44 + CD24 + group was reduced compared with the other groups. In summary, the results of the present study indicated that CD44 + CD24 + exhibited stem cell properties. The lower level of ROS and apoptosis in CD44 + CD24 + cells may contribute to their resistance to radiation in pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Do people with and without medical conditions respond similarly to the short health anxiety inventory? An assessment of differential item functioning using item response theory.

PubMed

LeBouthillier, Daniel M; Thibodeau, Michel A; Alberts, Nicole M; Hadjistavropoulos, Heather D; Asmundson, Gordon J G

2015-04-01

Individuals with medical conditions are likely to have elevated health anxiety; however, research has not demonstrated how medical status impacts response patterns on health anxiety measures. Measurement bias can undermine the validity of a questionnaire by overestimating or underestimating scores in groups of individuals. We investigated whether the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI), a widely-used measure of health anxiety, exhibits medical condition-based bias on item and subscale levels, and whether the SHAI subscales adequately assess the health anxiety continuum. Data were from 963 individuals with diabetes, breast cancer, or multiple sclerosis, and 372 healthy individuals. Mantel-Haenszel tests and item characteristic curves were used to classify the severity of item-level differential item functioning in all three medical groups compared to the healthy group. Test characteristic curves were used to assess scale-level differential item functioning and whether the SHAI subscales adequately assess the health anxiety continuum. Nine out of 14 items exhibited differential item functioning. Two items exhibited differential item functioning in all medical groups compared to the healthy group. In both Thought Intrusion and Fear of Illness subscales, differential item functioning was associated with mildly deflated scores in medical groups with very high levels of the latent traits. Fear of Illness items poorly discriminated between individuals with low and very low levels of the latent trait. While individuals with medical conditions may respond differentially to some items, clinicians and researchers can confidently use the SHAI with a variety of medical populations without concern of significant bias. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of locally delivered recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 with hydroxyapatite/tri-calcium phosphate on the biomechanical properties of bone in diabetes-related osteoporosis.

PubMed

Liporace, Frank A; Breitbart, Eric A; Yoon, Richard S; Doyle, Erin; Paglia, David N; Lin, Sheldon

2015-06-01

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is particularly effective in improving osteogenesis in patients with diminished bone healing capabilities, such as individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who have impaired bone healing capabilities and increased risk of developing osteoporosis. This study measured the effects of rhBMP-2 treatment on osteogenesis by observing the dose-dependent effect of localized delivery of rhBMP-2 on biomechanical parameters of bone using a hydroxyapatite/tri-calcium phosphate (HA/TCP) carrier in a T1DM-related osteoporosis animal model. Two different doses of rhBMP-2 (LD low dose, HD high dose) with a HA/TCP carrier were injected into the femoral intramedullary canal of rats with T1DM-related osteoporosis. Two more diabetic rat groups were injected with saline alone and with HA/TCP carrier alone. Radiographs and micro-computed tomography were utilized for qualitative assessment of bone mineral density (BMD). Biomechanical testing occurred at 4- and 8-week time points; parameters tested included torque to failure, torsional rigidity, shear stress, and shear modulus. At the 4-week time point, the LD and HD groups both exhibited significantly higher BMD than controls; at the 8-week time point, the HD group exhibited significantly higher BMD than controls. Biomechanical testing revealed dose-dependent, higher trends in all parameters tested at the 4- and 8-week time points, with minimal significant differences. Groups treated with rhBMP-2 demonstrated improved bone mineral density at both 4 and 8 weeks compared to control saline groups, in addition to strong trends towards improvement of intrinsic and extrinsic biomechanical properties when compared to control groups. Data revealed trends toward dose-dependent increases in peak torque, torsional rigidity, shear stress, and shear modulus 4 weeks after rhBMP-2 treatment. Not applicable.

Technology at the zoo: the influence of a touchscreen computer on orangutans and zoo visitors.

PubMed

Perdue, Bonnie M; Clay, Andrea W; Gaalema, Diann E; Maple, Terry L; Stoinski, Tara S

2012-01-01

A computer-controlled touchscreen apparatus (hereafter referred to as "touchscreen") in the orangutan exhibit at Zoo Atlanta provides enrichment to the animals and allows cognitive research to take place on exhibit. This study investigated the impact of the touchscreen on orangutan behavior and visibility, as well as its impact on zoo visitors. Despite previous research suggesting that providing a single computer system may negatively affect orangutan behavior, there was not a significant increase in aggression, stereotypic, or distress-related behaviors following the activation of the on-exhibit touchscreen. We also investigated the possibility that zoo visitors may be negatively affected by technology because it deviates from naturalism. However, we did not find a change in stay time or overall experience rating when the computer was turned on. This research was the first to assess visitor attitudes toward technology at the zoo, and we found that visitors report highly positive attitudes about technology for both animals and visitors. If subjects visited the exhibit when the computer was turned on, they more strongly agreed that orangutans benefit from interacting with computerized enrichment. This study is the first investigation of an on-exhibit touchscreen in group-housed apes; our findings of no negative effects on the animals or zoo visitors and positive attitudes toward technology suggest a significant value of this practice. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Anxiolytic-like effects of oleamide in group-housed and socially isolated mice.

PubMed

Wei, Xiu Yan; Yang, Jing Yu; Dong, Ying Xu; Wu, Chun Fu

2007-08-15

Oleamide (cis-9,10-octadecenoamide) is an endogenous sleep-inducing lipid and prototypic member of a new class of biological signaling molecules identified in recent years. In the present study, the anxiolytic-like effect of oleamide was studied in several experimental models of anxiety in group-housed and socially isolated mice. As the results show, socially isolated mice exhibited an anxiogenic-like profile in the elevated plus-maze test, the light/dark test, and the hole-board test, which could be significantly reversed by oleamide (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p.). Moreover, oleamide significantly reduced the anxiety levels in grouped-housed mice. In the isolation-induced aggressive test, oleamide markedly reduced the attacking duration and increased the attacking latency. It is concluded that oleamide has an anxiolytic-like effect in socially isolated or group-housed mice, which suggests that fatty acid amides might be involved in the regulation of anxiety-related behavior in mice.

Physical and cognitive stimulation in Alzheimer Disease. the GAIA Project: a pilot study.

PubMed

Maci, Tiziana; Pira, Francesco Le; Quattrocchi, Graziella; Nuovo, Santo Di; Perciavalle, Vincenzo; Zappia, Mario

2012-03-01

Several data suggest that physical activity and cognitive stimulation have a positive effect on the quality of life (QoL) of people with Alzheimer's disease (AD), slowing the decline due to the disease. A pilot project was undertaken to assess the effect of cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and socialization on patients with AD and their informal caregiver's QoL and mood. Fourteen patients with AD were randomly divided into active treatment group and control group. At the end of treatment, a significant improvement in apathy, anxiety, depression, and QoL in the active treatment group was found. Considering caregivers, those of the active treatment group exhibited a significant improvement in their mood and in their perception of patients' QoL. This study provides evidence that a combined approach based on cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and socialization is a feasible tool to improve mood and QoL in patients with AD and their caregivers.

Effects of Quercetin in a Mouse Model of Experimental Dry Eye.

PubMed

Oh, Ha Na; Kim, Chae Eun; Lee, Ji Hyun; Yang, Jae Wook

2015-09-01

To evaluate the effect of treatment with quercetin in a mouse model of dry eye. 0.5% quercetin eye drops were prepared and an experimental dry eye model was induced in NOD.B10.H2(b) mice through desiccation stress. The mice were divided into 3 groups according to the treatment regimen: the DS 10D group (desiccation stress for 10 days), the phosphate buffered saline (PBS) group, and the quercetin group. Tear volumes and corneal irregularity scores were measured at 3, 5, 7, and 10 days after treatment. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, periodic acid-Schiff staining, and immunohistochemistry were performed at the end of the experiment. The quercetin group had increased tear volumes (0.2 ± 0.03 μm, P < 0.05) and decreased corneal irregularity scores (0.7 ± 0.6, P < 0.05) compared with those of the PBS group. On histological examination, the quercetin group exhibited restored smooth corneal surfaces without detaching corneal epithelial cells and had significantly increased goblet cell density (13.8 ± 0.8 cells/0.1 mm², P < 0.05) compared with the PBS group. The quercetin group also exhibited significant declines of MMP-2 (5.1-fold of control, P < 0.01), MMP-9 (2.5-fold of control, P < 0.01), ICAM-1 (2.2-fold of control, P < 0.01), and VCAM-1 (2.3-fold of control, P < 0.01) levels in the lacrimal gland than did the PBS group. Topical application of quercetin can help to improve ocular surface disorders of dry eye not only by decreasing the corneal surface irregularity but also by increasing the tear volume and goblet cell density. Moreover, quercetin has the potential for use in eye drops as a treatment for dry eye disease with antiinflammatory effects on the lacrimal functional unit.

Comparison of efficacy and ocular surface toxicity of topical preservative-free methylprednisolone and preserved prednisolone in the treatment of acute anterior uveitis.

PubMed

Hedayatfar, Alireza; Hashemi, Hassan; Asgari, Soheila; Chee, Soon-Phaik

2014-04-01

The aim of this study was to compare the antiinflammatory effect and ocular surface toxicity of topical nonpreserved methylprednisolone sodium succinate 1% and preserved prednisolone acetate suspension 1% for the management of acute anterior uveitis (AAU). In this prospective, randomized, investigator-masked, comparative clinical trial, patients with mild-to-moderate noninfectious AAU were assigned randomly to receive either hourly nonpreserved methylprednisolone 1% (group A) or preserved prednisolone 1% (group B) eye drops followed by a 2-week tapering regimen. Anterior chamber cells and flare were clinically evaluated for the objective comparison of the antiinflammatory effect. The main outcome measure was the percentage of patients with a resolution of inflammation (anterior chamber cells <1+) on day 14. Ocular surface toxicity was assessed by means of the corneal fluorescein staining score, tear breakup time, Schirmer I test, and questionnaire-based grading of ocular discomfort parameters. Seventy-two eyes of 68 patients were studied, of which 38 eyes were enrolled in group A and 34 eyes were enrolled in group B. On day 14, 76.3% of the patients in group A had resolution of inflammation compared with 70.6% of the patients in group B, proving noninferiority (χ = 0.303, P = 0.582). The mean anterior chamber cell grade reduction for patients in group A was similar to that in group B (2.52 vs. 2.86, respectively; P = 0.92). Group A patients showed significantly lower corneal fluorescein staining scores (P < 0.001) and reported milder subjective ocular discomfort (0.55 vs. 1.43, P = 0.01) as compared with group B. Both preparations demonstrated equal antiinflammatory effects for the treatment of AAU. Nonpreserved methylprednisolone eye drops exhibited a significantly lower ocular surface toxicity profile and milder subjective discomfort when compared with that exhibited by preserved prednisolone.

Family history and APOE4 risk for Alzheimer's disease impact the neural correlates of episodic memory by early midlife.

PubMed

Rajah, M N; Wallace, L M K; Ankudowich, E; Yu, E H; Swierkot, A; Patel, R; Chakravarty, M M; Naumova, D; Pruessner, J; Joober, R; Gauthier, S; Pasvanis, S

2017-01-01

Episodic memory impairment is a consistent, pronounced deficit in pre-clinical stages of late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD). Individuals with risk factors for AD exhibit altered brain function several decades prior to the onset of AD-related symptoms. In the current event-related fMRI study of spatial context memory we tested the hypothesis that middle-aged adults (MA; 40-58 yrs) with a family history of late onset AD (MA + FH ), or a combined + FH and apolipoprotein E ε4 allele risk factors for AD (MA + FH + APOE4 ), will exhibit differences in encoding and retrieval-related brain activity, compared to - FH - APOE4 MA controls. We also hypothesized that the two at-risk MA groups will exhibit distinct patterns of correlation between brain activity and memory performance, compared to controls. To test these hypotheses we conducted multivariate task, and behavior, partial least squares analysis of fMRI data obtained during successful context encoding and retrieval. Our results indicate that even though there were no significant group differences in context memory performance, there were significant differences in brain activity and brain-behavior correlations involving the hippocampus, inferior parietal cortex, cingulate, and precuneus cortex in MA with AD risk factors, compared to controls. In addition, we observed that brain activity and brain-behavior correlations in anterior-medial PFC and in ventral visual cortex differentiated the two MA risk groups from each other, and from MA controls . Our results indicate that functional differences in episodic memory-related regions are present by early midlife in adults with + FH and + APOE-4 risk factors for late onset AD, compared to middle-aged controls.

In vivo regeneration of red cell 2,3-diphosphoglycerate following transfusion of DPG-depleted AS-1, AS-3 and CPDA-1 red cells.

PubMed

Heaton, A; Keegan, T; Holme, S

1989-01-01

Regeneration of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (DPG) was determined following transfusion of DPG-depleted group O red cells into group A recipients. Blood from five donors was stored in the adenine-containing solutions CPDA-1, AS-1 or AS-3 for 35 d at 4 degrees C. Post-transfusion red cell DPG and ATP were measured in separated group O red cells over a 7 d period. The studies confirmed rapid in vivo DPG regeneration with greater than or equal to 50% of the maximum level being achieved within 7 h. An average of 95% of the recipients' pre-transfusion DPG level was achieved by 72 h and by 7 d mean (+/- SEM) DPG levels relative to recipient's pre-transfusion DPG averaged 84% (+/- 13%), 92% (+/- 17%) and 84% (+/- 21%) for CPDA-1, AS-1 and AS-3 red cells, respectively. Results were comparable to those previously reported for blood stored in ACD for 15-20 d (Valeri & Hirsch, 1969; Beutler & Wood, 1969). The immediate regeneration rate, V, closely approximated first order regeneration kinetics with AS-3 red cells exhibiting double the rate of CPDA-1 red cells (P less than 0.001). AS-1 red cells exhibited an intermediate rate of regeneration which was not significantly different compared to either CPDA-1 or AS-3 (P greater than 0.05). V exhibited a significant (P less than 0.05) positive correlation with ATP levels 5-7 h post-infusion. ATP regeneration of the infused cells was rapid with a mean increase of 1.2 mumol/g Hb above post-storage levels being achieved 1 h following transfusion.

[Experimental oral candidiasis in healthy and immunocompromised BALB/c mice].

PubMed

Karaman, Meral; Kiray, Müge; Bayrakal, Vahide; Bağrıyanık, H Alper; Yılmaz, Osman; Bahar, I Hakkı

2011-04-01

Oral candidiasis which is the most common type of Candida infections affecting humans, is most frequently caused by C.albicans. Immune response of the host, as well as a variety of virulence factors of the causative agent, play important roles in the development of Candida infections. The colonization rate of Candida in the oral cavity of healthy individuals, is between 25-30%, however, this rate is reported to be increased in immunosuppressive subjects. In our study, we established an oral candidiasis model with C.albicans in healthy and experimentally immunocompromised mice and aimed to compare Candida colonization rates and histopathological changes occurred in the tongue and esophagus tissues of the animal groups. A total of 21 BALB/c mice were grouped as control (Group 1; n= 7), healthy (Group 2; n= 7) and immunocompromised (Group 3; n= 7) groups. Immunosuppression in mice was performed by subcutaneous injection of prednisolone. For experimental oral candidiasis, cotton swab impregnated with C.albicans strains which did not have acid proteinase and phospholipase enzyme activity, no biofilm production, and sensitive to fluconazole and amphotericin B, were used. In the control group, physiological saline solution was used instead of C.albicans strain. In the forth day of experimental oral candidiasis model swab samples taken from the dorsal tongue surface of mice were evaluated by quantitative cultivation method. No yeast colonies were detected in Group 1 while more significant number of yeast colonies were observed in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p= 0.002). Tongue and esophagus tissues of mice were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid schiff staining and evaluated in terms of inflammatory response, abscess formation, vascular congestion, vasodilation and for the presence of yeast and hyphae. When the inflammation in esophagus was considered, statistically significant difference was determined between group 1 and group 3 (p= 0.023), however, no difference was detected between group 2 and 3 (p= 0.107). The level of inflammation in tongue tissue exhibited no difference between groups 2 and 3 (p= 0.317) while the difference was significant when these groups were compared to the control group (p= 0.00, p= 0.002, respectively). Similarly, the level of congestion in tongue tissue exhibited no difference between groups 2 and 3, however, the difference was significant when compared to the control group. To enlighten the relation between host immune status and oral candidiasis caused by C. albicans, further larger-scale studies also concerning the various virulence factors of the infectious agent, should be conducted by the use of experimental animal models which may successfully guide us in this regard.

Immune correlates of aging in outdoor-housed captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Questions remain about whether inflammation is a cause, consequence, or coincidence of aging. The purpose of this study was to define baseline immunological characteristics from blood to develop a model in rhesus macaques that could be used to address the relationship between inflammation and aging. Hematology, flow cytometry, clinical chemistry, and multiplex cytokine/chemokine analyses were performed on a group of 101 outdoor-housed captive rhesus macaques ranging from 2 to 24 years of age, approximately equivalent to 8 to 77 years of age in humans. Results These results extend earlier reports correlating changes in lymphocyte subpopulations and cytokines/chemokines with increasing age. There were significant declines in numbers of white blood cells (WBC) overall, as well as lymphocytes, monocytes, and polymorphonuclear cells with increasing age. Among lymphocytes, there were no significant declines in NK cells and T cells, whereas B cell numbers exhibited significant declines with age. Within the T cell populations, there were significant declines in numbers of CD4+ naïve T cells and CD8+ naïve T cells. Conversely, numbers of CD4+CD8+ effector memory and CD8+effector memory T cells increased with age. New multiplex analyses revealed that concentrations of a panel of ten circulating cytokines/chemokines, IFNγ, IL1b, IL6, IL12, IL15, TNFα, MCP1, MIP1α, IL1ra, and IL4, each significantly correlated with age and also exhibited concordant pairwise correlations with every other factor within this group. To also control for outlier values, mean rank values of each of these cytokine concentrations in relation to age of each animal and these also correlated with age. Conclusions A panel of ten cytokines/chemokines were identified that correlated with aging and also with each other. This will permit selection of animals exhibiting relatively higher and lower inflammation status as a model to test mechanisms of inflammation status in aging with susceptibility to infections and vaccine efficacy. PMID:23151307

Redshift differences of galaxies in nearby groups

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, E. R.

1975-01-01

It is reported that galaxies in nearby groups exhibit anomalous nonvelocity redshifts. In this discussion, (1) four classes of nearby groups of galacies are analyzed, and no significant nonvelocity redshift effect is found; and (2) it is pointed out that transverse velocities (i.e., velocities transverse to the line of sight of the main galaxy, or center of mass) contribute components to the redshift measurements of companion galaxies. The redshifts of galaxies in nearby groups of appreciable angular size are considerably affected by these velocity projection effects. The transverse velocity contributions average out in rich, isotropic groups, and also in large samples of irregular groups of low membership, as in the four classes referred to in (1), but can introduce apparent discrepancies in small samples (as studied by Arp) of nearby groups of low membership.

Physiological and immunological characterization of Caribbean spiny lobsters Panulirus argus naturally infected with Panulirus argus Virus 1 (PaV1).

PubMed

Pascual Jiménez, Cristina; Huchin-Mian, Juan Pablo; Simões, Nuno; Briones-Fourzán, Patricia; Lozano-Álvarez, Enrique; Sánchez Arteaga, Ariadna; Pérez-Vega, Juan Antonio; Simá-Álvarez, Raúl; Rosas Vazquez, Carlos; Rodríguez-Canul, Rossanna

2012-08-27

The present study compares 13 physiological and immunological variables between a group of healthy Panulirus argus lobsters and a group of lobsters naturally infected with Panulirus argus Virus 1 (PaV1). Viral infection was determined through histopathology and PCR. Ten of the 13 variables differed significantly between the 2 groups. Using these variables, a principal component analysis yielded 2 separate clusters: one corresponding to the healthy group and the other corresponding to the infected group. In particular, infected lobsters exhibited significantly lower levels of osmotic pressure, total hemocyte counts, plasmatic proteins, and total phenoloxidase (PO) activity in plasma, as well as significantly higher levels of cholesterol and acylglycerides. These features are consistent with metabolic wasting, hyperlipidemia, and presumed immune suppression. Infection with PaV1 appears to increase the susceptibility of lobsters to some other opportunistic pathogens, as 61.1% of infected lobsters presented infestations of ciliate epibionts (Epystilis and Zoothamniun) in the gill chamber compared with 11.5% lobsters in the healthy group. Infected lobsters also showed significantly higher levels of total PO activity in degranulated hemocytes and trypsin inhibitor activity, potentially indicating activation of immune response by the PO system during the systemic infection with PaV1.

Prehypertensive treatment with losartan, however not amlodipine, leads to long-term effects on blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke in spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rats.

PubMed

Zhang, Liangmin; He, Dehua; Lin, Jinxiu

2016-02-01

The current study investigated the efficacy of losartan and amlodipine in protecting spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone (SHRSP) rats against the risk of stroke. SHRSP rats were administered losartan, amlodipine or the vehicle for 6 weeks. There were no significant differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP) in rats treated with losartan or amlodipine, however, following drug withdrawal, rats treated with losartan maintained reduced SBP for a longer time compared with rats treated with amlodipine. In addition, rats treated with losartan exhibited thinner vascular walls and improved systolic and diastolic function. Clinical stroke scores in the losartan group were significantly reduced compared with those in the amlodipine and vehicle groups. However, rats treated with losartan exhibited higher levels of angiotensin II and lower levels of aldosterone in the serum and brain cortex compared with the vehicle and amlodipine-treated rats. Furthermore, losartan significantly reduced the abnormal expression of angiotensin II receptors type 1 and 2 in SHRSP rats, whilst amlodipine did not. These results suggest that losartan may be more efficacious than amlodipine in ameliorating blood pressure deterioration and reducing stroke risk in SHRSP rats via regulation of the renin angiotensin system.

[Adhesion of oral microorganisms on dental porcelain polished and glazed].

PubMed

Wang, Yi-ning; Wen, Guo-jiang; Shi, Bin; Pan, Xin-hua

2003-09-01

This study compared the roughness of porcelain polished or glazed surfaces and the adhesion of oral streptococcus mutans to them in vitro. 30 porcelain samples were made. Porcelain samples in group A were polished with diamond paste. Porcelain samples were glazed in group B and were polished with Al2O3 (240#) bur in group C. Their roughness values were measured by profilometer. Standardized cell suspensions were incubated with test samples for one hour at 37 degrees C, then retained cells were counted by image analysis (percentage area of a microscopic field covered by cells). Roughness values of group A, B, C were respectively (0.1987 +/- 0.057) microm, (0.1990 +/- 0.091) microm, (0.4260 +/- 0.174) microm. There was no significantly difference between group A and group B. The roughness samples in group C were significantly rougher than that in the other groups. The amount of retained cells in group A, group B, group C was respectively (15.92 +/- 4.37)%, (16.39 +/- 6.31)% and (41.48 +/- 12.1)%. There was no significant difference between the cell adhesion on porcelain surface glazed and polished, but more bacteria adhered on the porcelain surface in group C. Porcelain surface polished treatment was clinically acceptable compared with its glazed. They all exhibited the least amount of bacteria adhesion. The more porcelain surface was rough, the more bacteria adhered on it.

ROLE OF ENDOTHELIAL NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHETASE IN ARTERIOGENESIS AFTER STROKE IN MICE

PubMed Central

CUI, X.; CHOPP, M.; ZACHAREK, A.; ZHANG, C.; ROBERTS, C.; CHEN, J.

2009-01-01

Arteriogenesis supports restored perfusion in the ischemic brain and improves long-term functional outcome after stroke. We investigate the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS) and an NO donor, [(Z)-1-[N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-ammonioethyl) aminio] diazen-1-ium-1, 2-diolate (DETA-NONOate), in promoting arteriogenesis after stroke. Adult wild-type (WT, n=18) and eNOS-knockout (eNOS-/-, n=36) mice were subjected to transient (2.5 hours) right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and were treated with or without DETA-NONOate (0.4 mg/kg) 24 hours after MCAo. Functional evaluation was performed. Animals were sacrificed 3 days after MCAo for arterial cell culture studies, or 14 days for immunohistochemical analysis. Consistent with previous studies, eNOS-/- mice exhibited a higher mortality rate (p<0.05, n=18/group) and more severe neurological functional deficit after MCAo than WT mice (p<0.05, n=12/group). Decreased arteriogenesis, was evident in eNOS-/- mice compared with WT mice, as demonstrated by reduced vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, arterial density and diameter in the ischemic brain. eNOS-/- mice treated with DETA-NONOate had a significantly decreased mortality rate and improved functional recovery, and exhibited enhanced arteriogenesis identified by increased VSMC proliferation, and upregulated arterial density and diameter compared to eNOS-/- mice after stroke (p<0.05, n=12/group). To elucidate the mechanisms underlying eNOS/NO mediated arteriogenesis, VSMC migration was measured in vitro. Arterial cell migration significantly decreased in the cultured common carotid artery (CCA) derived from eNOS-/- mice 3 days after MCAo compared to WT arterial cells. DETA-NONOate-treatment significantly attenuated eNOS-/--induced decrease of arterial cell migration compared to eNOS-/- control artery (p<0.05. n=6/group). Using VSMC culture, DETA-NONOate significantly increased VSMC migration, while inhibition of NOS significantly decreased VSMC migration (p<0.05. n=6/group). Our data indicated that eNOS not only promotes vascular dilation but also increases VSMC proliferation and migration, and thereby enhances arteriogenesis after stroke. Therefore, increase eNOS may play an important role in regulating of arteriogenesis after stroke. PMID:19154781

Role of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase in arteriogenesis after stroke in mice.

PubMed

Cui, X; Chopp, M; Zacharek, A; Zhang, C; Roberts, C; Chen, J

2009-03-17

Arteriogenesis supports restored perfusion in the ischemic brain and improves long-term functional outcome after stroke. We investigate the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthetase (eNOS) and a nitric oxide (NO) donor, (Z)-1-[N-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-ammonioethyl) amino] diazen-1-ium-1, 2-diolate (DETA-NONOate), in promoting arteriogenesis after stroke. Adult wild-type (WT, n=18) and eNOS-knockout (eNOS(-/-), n=36) mice were subjected to transient (2.5 h) right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) and were treated with or without DETA-NONOate (0.4 mg/kg) 24 h after MCAo. Functional evaluation was performed. Animals were sacrificed 3 days after MCAo for arterial cell culture studies, or 14 days for immunohistochemical analysis. Consistent with previous studies, eNOS(-/-) mice exhibited a higher mortality rate (P<0.05, n=18/group) and more severe neurological functional deficit after MCAo than WT mice (P<0.05, n=12/group). Decreased arteriogenesis, was evident in eNOS(-/-) mice compared with WT mice, as demonstrated by reduced vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation, arterial density and diameter in the ischemic brain. eNOS(-/-) mice treated with DETA-NONOate had a significantly decreased mortality rate and improved functional recovery, and exhibited enhanced arteriogenesis identified by increased VSMC proliferation, and upregulated arterial density and diameter compared to eNOS(-/-) mice after stroke (P<0.05, n=12/group). To elucidate the mechanisms underlying eNOS/NO mediated arteriogenesis, VSMC migration was measured in vitro. Arterial cell migration significantly decreased in the cultured common carotid artery (CCA) derived from eNOS(-/-) mice 3 days after MCAo compared to WT arterial cells. DETA-NONOate-treatment significantly attenuated eNOS(-/-)-induced decrease of arterial cell migration compared to eNOS(-/-) control artery (P<0.05; n=6/group). Using VSMC culture, DETA-NONOate significantly increased VSMC migration, while inhibition of NOS significantly decreased VSMC migration (P<0.05; n=6/group). Our data indicated that eNOS not only promotes vascular dilation but also increases VSMC proliferation and migration, and thereby enhances arteriogenesis after stroke. Therefore, increase eNOS may play an important role in regulating of arteriogenesis after stroke.

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.

Sub-chronic safety evaluation of aqueous extract of Alangium salvifolium (L.f.) Wangerin leaves in rats

PubMed Central

Kapoor, Bhupinder; Kaur, Gagandeep; Gupta, Mukta; Gupta, Reena

2017-01-01

Conventionally, the juice and extract of Alangium salvifolium leaves have been used for the treatment of diabetes, wound healing, dog bite, and as a poultice in rheumatism. To carry out the sub-chronic toxicity and thereafter safety evaluation of A. salvifolium leaves. The aqueous extract of A. salvifolium leaves was administered orally at the doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg/day for 90 days. All the animals were observed daily for general behavior, changes in body weight, food, and water consumption. At the end of the treatment period, biochemical and hematological parameters were analyzed; and the animals were sacrificed for histopathological examination of heart, lungs, liver, and kidney. The general behavior and water intake were normal in all the rats. The increase in body weight was observed in female rats of all the groups while body weight was decreased in high dose group animals of both sexes. Hematological parameters were not disturbed by the continuous use of extract. A significant decrease in glucose level was observed in intermediate- and high-dose group animals while urea and creatinine level were significantly high in animals of high-dose group. Although histopathological examination of most of the organs exhibited no structural changes, some tubal damage in kidneys was observed in high-dose group animals. The high dose of extract has shown mild signs of toxicity on kidney function test, but no toxic response was observed on hematological and liver biochemical parameters. The extract also exhibited hypoglycemic potential. PMID:28795025

Evaluation of an alternative technique to optimize direct bonding of orthodontic brackets to temporary crowns.

PubMed

Dias, Francilena Maria Campos Santos; Pinzan-Vercelino, Célia Regina Maio; Tavares, Rudys Rodolfo de Jesus; Gurgel, Júlio de Araújo; Bramante, Fausto Silva; Fialho, Melissa Nogueira Proença

2015-01-01

To compare shear bond strength of different direct bonding techniques of orthodontic brackets to acrylic resin surfaces. The sample comprised 64 discs of chemically activated acrylic resin (CAAR) randomly divided into four groups: discs in group 1 were bonded by means of light-cured composite resin (conventional adhesive); discs in group 2 had surfaces roughened with a diamond bur followed by conventional direct bonding by means of light-cured composite resin; discs in group 3 were bonded by means of CAAR (alternative adhesive); and discs in group 4 had surfaces roughened with a diamond bur followed by direct bonding by means of CAAR. Shear bond strength values were determined after 24 hours by means of a universal testing machine at a speed of 0.5 mm/min, and compared by analysis of variance followed by post-hoc Tukey test. Adhesive remnant index (ARI) was measured and compared among groups by means of Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests. Groups 3 and 4 had significantly greater shear bond strength values in comparison to groups 1 and 2. Groups 3 and 4 yielded similar results. Group 2 showed better results when compared to group 1. In ARI analyses, groups 1 and 2 predominantly exhibited a score equal to 0, whereas groups 3 and 4 predominantly exhibited a score equal to 3. Direct bonding of brackets to acrylic resin surfaces using CAAR yielded better results than light-cured composite resin. Surface preparation with diamond bur only increased shear bond strength in group 2.

Optical mapping of brain activation in gambling disorders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Zhen; Lin, Xiaohong

2018-02-01

In this study, fNIRS was utilized to identify the brain activation difference between pathological gamblers (PGs) and heathy controls (HCs). We inspected the hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex using fNIRS recordings during the completion of executive function and decision making tasks. Our finding revealed that the PG and HC groups exhibited significant differences in brain activation.

Adjustment to the First Year in School--A Singapore Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yeo, Lay See; Clarke, Christine

2006-01-01

This paper investigates the concept of adjustment to school for a group of primary one (first grade) pupils in Singapore. Pupils rated by their teachers as being well adjusted obtained significantly higher grades at the end of the school year, did not require additional learning support, and exhibited better social skills compared to children…

Extracting Intrinsic Functional Networks with Feature-Based Group Independent Component Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calhoun, Vince D.; Allen, Elena

2013-01-01

There is increasing use of functional imaging data to understand the macro-connectome of the human brain. Of particular interest is the structure and function of intrinsic networks (regions exhibiting temporally coherent activity both at rest and while a task is being performed), which account for a significant portion of the variance in…

Fortifying the Bone-Implant Interface Part 2: An In Vivo Evaluation of 3D-Printed and TPS-Coated Triangular Implants

PubMed Central

Lindsey, Derek P.; Woods, Shane A.; Lalor, Peggy A.; Gundanna, Mukund I.; Yerby, Scott A.

2017-01-01

Background Minimally invasive surgical fusion of the sacroiliac (SI) joint using machined solid triangular titanium plasma spray (TPS) coated implants has demonstrated positive clinical outcomes in SI joint pain patients. Additive manufactured (AM), i.e. 3D-printed, fenestrated triangular titanium implants with porous surfaces and bioactive agents, such as nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) or autograft, may further optimize bony fixation and subsequent biomechanical stability. Methods A bilateral ovine distal femoral defect model was used to evaluate the cancellous bone-implant interfaces of TPS-coated and AM implants. Four implant groups (n=6/group/time-point) were included: 1)TPS-coated, 2)AM, 3)AM+HA, and 4)AM+Autograft. The bone-implant interfaces of 6- and 12-week specimens were investigated via radiographic, biomechanical, and histomorphometric methods. Results Imaging showed peri-implant bone formation around all implants. Push-out testing demonstrated forces greater than 2500 N, with no significant differences among groups. While TPS implants failed primarily at the bone-implant interface, AM groups failed within bone ~2-3mm away from implant surfaces. All implants exhibited bone ongrowth, with no significant differences among groups. AM implants had significantly more bone ingrowth into their porous surfaces than TPS-coated implants (p<0.0001). Of the three AM groups, AM+Auto implants had the greatest bone ingrowth into the porous surface and through their core (p<0.002). Conclusions Both TPS and AM implants exhibited substantial bone ongrowth and ingrowth, with additional bone through growth into the AM implants’ core. Overall, AM implants experienced significantly more bone infiltration compared to TPS implants. While HA-coating did not further enhance results, the addition of autograft fostered greater osteointegration for AM implants. Clinical Relevance Additive manufactured implants with a porous surface provide a highly interconnected porous surface that has comparatively greater surface area for bony integration. Results suggest this may prove advantageous toward promoting enhanced biomechanical stability compared to TPS-coated implants for SI joint fusion procedures. PMID:28765800

Sensitive photo-thermal response of graphene oxide for mid-infrared detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, Jung Jun; Yoon, Jung Hyun; Jeong, Sooyeon; Moon, Byoung Hee; Han, Joong Tark; Jeong, Hee Jin; Lee, Geon-Woong; Hwang, Ha Ryong; Lee, Young Hee; Jeong, Seung Yol; Lim, Seong Chu

2015-09-01

This study characterizes the effects of incident infrared (IR) radiation on the electrical conductivity of graphene oxide (GO) and examines its potential for mid-IR detection. Analysis of the mildly reduced GO (m-GO) transport mechanism near room temperature reveals variable range hopping (VRH) for the conduction of electrons. This VRH behavior causes the m-GO resistance to exhibit a strong temperature dependence, with a large negative temperature coefficient of resistance of approximately -2 to -4% K-1. In addition to this hopping transport, the presence of various oxygen-related functional groups within GO enhances the absorption of IR radiation significantly. These two GO material properties are synergically coupled and provoke a remarkable photothermal effect within this material; specifically, a large resistance drop is exhibited by m-GO in response to the increase in temperature caused by the IR absorption. The m-GO bolometer effect identified in this study is different from that exhibited in vanadium oxides, which require added gold-black films that function as IR absorbers owing to their limited IR absorption capability.This study characterizes the effects of incident infrared (IR) radiation on the electrical conductivity of graphene oxide (GO) and examines its potential for mid-IR detection. Analysis of the mildly reduced GO (m-GO) transport mechanism near room temperature reveals variable range hopping (VRH) for the conduction of electrons. This VRH behavior causes the m-GO resistance to exhibit a strong temperature dependence, with a large negative temperature coefficient of resistance of approximately -2 to -4% K-1. In addition to this hopping transport, the presence of various oxygen-related functional groups within GO enhances the absorption of IR radiation significantly. These two GO material properties are synergically coupled and provoke a remarkable photothermal effect within this material; specifically, a large resistance drop is exhibited by m-GO in response to the increase in temperature caused by the IR absorption. The m-GO bolometer effect identified in this study is different from that exhibited in vanadium oxides, which require added gold-black films that function as IR absorbers owing to their limited IR absorption capability. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04039f

Amygdala Activity During Autobiographical Memory Recall in Depressed and Vulnerable Individuals: Association With Symptom Severity and Autobiographical Overgenerality.

PubMed

Young, Kymberly D; Siegle, Greg J; Bodurka, Jerzy; Drevets, Wayne C

2016-01-01

In healthy individuals, autobiographical memory recall is biased toward positive and away from negative events, while the opposite is found in depressed individuals. This study examined amygdala activity during autobiographical memory recall as a putative mechanism underlying biased memory recall and depressive symptoms in currently depressed adults and two vulnerable populations: individuals remitted from depression and otherwise healthy individuals at high familial risk of developing depression. Identification of such vulnerability factors could enable interception strategies that prevent depression onset. Sixty healthy control subjects, 45 unmedicated currently depressed individuals, 25 unmedicated remitted depressed individuals, and 30 individuals at high familial risk of developing depression underwent functional MRI while recalling autobiographical memories in response to emotionally valenced cue words. Amygdala reactivity and connectivity with anatomically defined amygdala regions were examined. During positive recall, depressed participants exhibited significantly decreased left amygdala activity and decreased connectivity with regions of the salience network compared with the other groups. During negative recall, control subjects had significantly decreased left amygdala activity compared with the other groups, while depressed participants exhibited increased amygdala connectivity with the salience network. In depressed participants, left amygdala activity during positive recall correlated significantly with depression severity (r values >-0.38) and percent of positive specific memories recalled (r values >0.59). The results suggest that left amygdala hyperactivity during negative autobiographical recall is a trait-like marker of depression, as both vulnerable groups showed activity similar to the depressed group, while amygdala hypoactivity during positive autobiographical recall is a state marker of depression manifesting in active disease. Treatments targeting amygdala hypoactivity and blunted salience during positive autobiographical recall could exert antidepressant effects.

Trans-Fatty Acids Aggravate Obesity, Insulin Resistance and Hepatic Steatosis in C57BL/6 Mice, Possibly by Suppressing the IRS1 Dependent Pathway.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiaona; Shen, Cheng; Zhu, Hong; Wang, Cong; Liu, Xiangwei; Sun, Xiaolei; Han, Shasha; Wang, Peng; Dong, Zhen; Ma, Xin; Hu, Kai; Sun, Aijun; Ge, Junbo

2016-05-30

Trans-fatty acid consumption has been reported as a risk factor for metabolic disorders and targeted organ damages. Nonetheless, little is known about the roles and mechanisms of trans-fatty acids in obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and hepatic steatosis. Adult C57BL/6 male mice were fed with four different diets for 20 weeks: normal diet (ND), high fat diet (HFD), low trans-fatty acids diet (LTD) and high trans-fatty acid diet (HTD). The diet-induced metabolic disorders were assessed by evaluating body weight, glucose tolerance test, hepatic steatosis and plasma lipid profiles post 20-week diet. Histological (H&E, Oil-Red-O) staining and western blot analysis were employed to assess liver steatosis and potential signaling pathways. After 20-weeks of diet, the body weights of the four groups were 29.61 ± 1.89 g (ND), 39.04 ± 4.27 g (HFD), 34.09 ± 2.62 g (LTD) and 43.78 ± 4.27 g (HTD) (p < 0.05), respectively. HFD intake significantly impaired glucose tolerance, which was impaired further in the mice consuming the HTD diet. The effect was further exacerbated by HTD diet. Moreover, the HTD group exhibited significantly more severe liver steatosis compared with HFD group possibly through regulating adipose triglyceride lipase. The group consuming the HTD also exhibited significantly reduced levels of IRS1, phosphor-PKC and phosphor-AKT. These results support our hypothesis that consumption of a diet high in trans-fatty acids induces higher rates of obesity, IR and hepatic steatosis in male C57BL/6 mice, possibly by suppressing the IRS1dependent pathway.

Effect of stocking density on water quality and (Growth, Body Composition and Plasma Cortisol Content) performance of pen-reared rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Qun; Hou, Zhishuai; Wen, Haishen; Li, Jifang; He, Feng; Wang, Jinhuan; Guan, Biao; Wang, Qinglong

2016-08-01

The goal of the study was to examine the effect of stocking density on the water quality of culture area, as well as the growth, body composition and cortisol content of rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss). Pen-reared trout were stocked in densities of 40, 60, 80 fish individuals m-3 (4.6, 6.6, 8.6 kg m-3, SD1, SD2 and SD3 groups, respectively) for 300 days. Compared to the water from SD1 and SD2, that from SD3 exhibited significantly higher NH 4 + -N content and COD (chemical-oxygen-demand), and a significant reduction of dissolved oxygen in day 180 (40.6 kg m-3). Stocking density was significantly associated with body weight, standard length, VSI (viscerosomatic index), CF (condition factor) and FC (food coefficient) in group SD3, particularly in day 240 and day 300 (45 or 49.3 kg m-3). Increased crude fat and decreased crude protein were displayed in high density group when the density reached to 36 kg m-3. As a cumulative effect of density-related stress, VSI, CF, FC, moisture, and crude protein content varied over time in each density group (SD1, SD2, and SD3). In summary, trout exhibited a better growth performance in low density (26.3 kg m-3) than those reared in high densities (36 and 45 kg m-3). The results indicate that rainbow trout (114.44 g ± 6.21 g, 19.69 cm ± 0.31 cm) initially stocked in 6.6 or 8.6 kg m-3 should be lightened to less than 36 kg m-3 after an intensive rearing for 240 days.

Thermal sensitivity and cardiovascular reactivity to stress in healthy males.

PubMed

Conde-Guzón, Pablo Antonio; Bartolomé-Albistegui, María Teresa; Quirós, Pilar; Cabestrero, Raúl

2011-11-01

This paper examines the association of cardiovascular reactivity with thermal thresholds (detection and unpleasantness). Heart period (HP), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure of 42 health young males were recorded during a cardiovascular reactivity task (a videogame based upon Sidman's avoidance paradigm). Thermal sensitivity, assessing detection and unpleasantness thresholds with radiant heat in the forearm was also estimated for participants. Participants with differential scores in the cardiovascular variables from base line to task > or = P65 were considered as reactors and those how have differential scores < or = P35 were considered as non-reactors. Significant differences were observed between groups in the unpleasantness thresholds in blood pressure (BP) but not in HP. Reactors exhibited significant higher unpleasantness thresholds than non-reactors. No significant differences were obtained in detection thresholds between groups.

Influence of different conditioning methods on the shear bond strength of novel light-curing nano-ionomer restorative to enamel and dentin.

PubMed

Korkmaz, Yonca; Ozel, Emre; Attar, Nuray; Ozge Bicer, Ceren

2010-11-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate shear bond strength (SBS) between a light-curing nano-ionomer restorative and enamel or dentin after acid etching, after erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser etching, or after combined treatment. Forty third molars were selected, the crowns were sectioned, and 80 tooth slabs were obtained. The specimens were assigned to two groups, which were divided into four subgroups(n = 10). Group 1 [enamel (e)], treated with 37% phosphoric acid (A) + Ketac nano-primer (K); group 2 [dentin (d)], (A) + (K); group 3(e), Er:YAG laser etching (L) + (A) + (K); group 4(d), (L) + (A) + (K); group 5(e), (L) + (K); group 6(d), (L) + (K); group 7(e), (K); group 8(d), (K). The SBS of the specimens was measured with a universal test machine (1 mm/min). Data were analyzed by independent samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a post-hoc Duncan test (p < 0.05). No difference was determined between groups 3 and 5 (p > 0.05). Group 7 exhibited higher SBS values than those of groups 3 and 5 (p < 0.05). Group 1 showed higher SBSs than those of groups 3, 5 and 7 (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between groups 4 and 6 (p > 0.05). No difference was observed between groups 2 and 4 (p > 0.05). However, group 2 presented higher SBSs than did group 6 (p < 0.05). Group 8 exhibited the highest SBS values when compared with groups 2, 4 and 6 (p < 0.05). Er:YAG laser adversely affected the adhesion of the light-curing nano-ionomer restorative to both enamel and dentin.

Randomized controlled trial of moderate hypothermia versus deep hypothermia anesthesia on brain injury during Stanford A aortic dissection surgery.

PubMed

Sun, Xufang; Yang, Hua; Li, Xinyu; Wang, Yue; Zhang, Chuncheng; Song, Zhimin; Pan, Zhenxiang

2018-01-01

This study aimed to compare the effects of moderate versus deep hypothermia anesthesia for Stanford A aortic dissection surgery on brain injury. A total of 82 patients who would undergo Stanford A aortic dissection surgery were randomized into two groups: moderate hypothermia group (MH, n = 40, nasopharyngeal temperature 25 °C, and rectal temperature 28 °C) and deep hypothermia group (DH, n = 42, nasopharyngeal temperature 20 °C, and rectal temperature 25 °C). Different vascular replacement techniques including aortic root replacement, Bentall, and Wheat were used. The intraoperative and postoperative indicators of these patients were recorded. There were no differences in intraoperative and postoperative measures between MH and DH groups. The concentrations of neuron-specific enolase and S-100β increased with operation time, and were significantly lower in MH group than those in the DH group (P < 0.05). The occurrence rates of complications including chenosis, postoperative agitation, and neurological complications in MH group were significantly lower than in DH group. The recovery time, postoperative tube, and ICU intubation stay were significantly shorter in MH group than those in DH group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences revealed in hospital stay and death rate. MH exhibited better cerebral protective effects, less complications, and shorter tube time than DH in surgery for Stanford A aortic dissection.

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.

Organizational citizenship behavior and the quantity and quality of work group performance.

PubMed

Podsakoff, P M; Ahearne, M; MacKenzie, S B

1997-04-01

Despite the widespread interest in the topic of organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs), little empirical research has tested the fundamental assumption that these forms of behavior improve the effectiveness of work groups or organizations in which they are exhibited. In the present study, the effects of OCBs on the quantity and quality of the performance of 218 people working in 40 machine crews in a paper mill located in the Northeastern United States were examined. The results indicate that helping behavior and sportsmanship had significant effects on performance quantity and that helping behavior had a significant impact on performance quality. However, civic virtue had no effect on either performance measure.

Repeated doses of cardiac mesenchymal cells are therapeutically superior to a single dose in mice with old myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Guo, Yiru; Wysoczynski, Marcin; Nong, Yibing; Tomlin, Alex; Zhu, Xiaoping; Gumpert, Anna M; Nasr, Marjan; Muthusamy, Senthikumar; Li, Hong; Book, Michael; Khan, Abdur; Hong, Kyung U; Li, Qianhong; Bolli, Roberto

2017-03-01

We have recently demonstrated that repeated administrations of c-kit POS cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) have cumulative beneficial effects in rats with old myocardial infarction (MI), resulting in markedly greater improvement in left ventricular (LV) function compared with a single administration. To determine whether this paradigm applies to other species and cell types, mice with a 3-week-old MI received one or three doses of cardiac mesenchymal cells (CMCs), a novel cell type that we have recently described. CMCs or vehicle were infused percutaneously into the LV cavity, 14 days apart. Compared with vehicle-treated mice, the single-dose group exhibited improved LV ejection fraction (EF) after the 1st infusion (consisting of CMCs) but not after the 2nd and 3rd (vehicle). In contrast, in the multiple-dose group, LV EF improved after each CMC infusion, so that at the end of the study, LV EF averaged 35.5 ± 0.7% vs. 32.7 ± 0.6% in the single-dose group (P < 0.05). The multiple-dose group also exhibited less collagen in the non-infarcted region vs. the single-dose group. Engraftment and differentiation of CMCs were negligible in both groups, indicating paracrine effects. These results demonstrate that, in mice with ischemic cardiomyopathy, the beneficial effects of three doses of CMCs are significantly greater than those of one dose, supporting the concept that multiple treatments are necessary to properly evaluate the full therapeutic potential of cell therapy. Thus, the repeated-treatment paradigm is not limited to c-kit POS CPCs or to rats, but applies to other cell types and species. The generalizability of this concept dramatically augments its significance.

Regenerative Needs Following Alveolar Ridge Preservation Procedures in Compromised and Noncompromised Extraction Sockets: A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study.

PubMed

Koutouzis, Theofilos; Lipton, David

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the necessity for additional regenerative procedures following healing of compromised and noncompromised extraction sockets with alveolar ridge preservation procedures through the use of virtual implant imaging software. The cohort was comprised of 87 consecutive patients subjected to a single maxillary tooth extraction with an alveolar ridge preservation procedure for subsequent implant placement. Patients were divided into two main groups based on the integrity of the buccal bone plate following teeth extraction. Patients in the compromised socket (CS) group (n = 52) had partial or complete buccal bone plate loss, and patients in the noncompromised socket (NCS) group (n = 35) exhibited no bone loss of their socket walls following tooth extraction. Following 4 to 6 months of healing, all patients had a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) study. Root-formed implants were placed virtually in an ideal prosthetic position. The number of implants per group and location (anterior, premolar, molar) exhibiting exposed buccal implant surface was calculated. In the CS group, 5 out of 19 anterior implants (26.3%), 4 out of 14 premolar implants (28.5%), and 7 out of 19 molar implants (36.8%) had exposed buccal surfaces. In the NCS group, 4 out of 9 anterior implants (44.4%), 2 out of 9 premolar implants (22.2%), and 4 out of 17 molar implants (23.5%) had exposed buccal surfaces. There were no statistically significant differences for intragroup and intergroup comparisons (χ² test, P > .05). This study failed to find statistically significant differences in the frequency of implants with exposed buccal surfaces placed virtually, following treatment of compromised and noncompromised sockets. A high proportion (22% to 44%) of sites had implants that potentially needed additional regenerative procedures.

In Vitro Comparison of Apically Extruded Debris during Root Canal Preparation of Mandibular Premolars with Manual and Rotary Instruments.

PubMed

Soi, Sonal; Yadav, Suman; Sharma, Sumeet; Sharma, Mohit

2015-01-01

Background and aims. During root canal preparation, debris extruded beyond the apical foramen may result in periapical inflammation and postoperative pain. To date no root canal preparation method has been developed that extrudes no periapical debris. The purpose of this study was to identify a system leading to minimal extrusion of debris from the apical foramen. The study was conducted to comparatively evaluate the amount of apical extrusion of debris during root canal preparation using hand ProTaper and GT rotary and RaCe rotary instruments using crown-down technique. Materials and methods. Ninety freshly extracted human single-rooted mandibular premolars were equally assigned to three groups (n=30). The root canals were instrumented using hand ProTaper, GT rotary and RaCe rotary systems. Debris and irrigant extruded from the apical foramen were collected into vials. The mean weight of the remaining debris was calculated for each group and subjected to statistical analysis. Results. ANOVA was used to compare the mean dry weights of the debris extruded in the three groups, followedby post hoc Tukey tests for multiple comparisons the between groups. Highly significant differences were found in the amount of debris extruded among all the groups (P<0.001). The ProTaper group exhibited the highest mean debris weight (0.8293±0.05433 mg) and the RaCe system exhibited the lowest mean debris weight (0.1280±0.01606 mg). Conclusion. All the systems tested resulted in apical extrusion of debris. However, the hand ProTaper files extruded a significantly higher amount of debris than GT and RaCe systems.

In Vitro Comparison of Apically Extruded Debris during Root Canal Preparation of Mandibular Premolars with Manual and Rotary Instruments

PubMed Central

Soi, Sonal; Yadav, Suman; Sharma, Sumeet; Sharma, Mohit

2015-01-01

Background and aims. During root canal preparation, debris extruded beyond the apical foramen may result in periapical inflammation and postoperative pain. To date no root canal preparation method has been developed that extrudes no periapical debris. The purpose of this study was to identify a system leading to minimal extrusion of debris from the apical foramen. The study was conducted to comparatively evaluate the amount of apical extrusion of debris during root canal preparation using hand ProTaper and GT rotary and RaCe rotary instruments using crown-down technique. Materials and methods. Ninety freshly extracted human single-rooted mandibular premolars were equally assigned to three groups (n=30). The root canals were instrumented using hand ProTaper, GT rotary and RaCe rotary systems. Debris and irrigant extruded from the apical foramen were collected into vials. The mean weight of the remaining debris was calculated for each group and subjected to statistical analysis. Results. ANOVA was used to compare the mean dry weights of the debris extruded in the three groups, followedby post hoc Tukey tests for multiple comparisons the between groups. Highly significant differences were found in the amount of debris extruded among all the groups (P<0.001). The ProTaper group exhibited the highest mean debris weight (0.8293±0.05433 mg) and the RaCe system exhibited the lowest mean debris weight (0.1280±0.01606 mg). Conclusion. All the systems tested resulted in apical extrusion of debris. However, the hand ProTaper files extruded a significantly higher amount of debris than GT and RaCe systems. PMID:26697144

Neural correlates of emotional face processing in bipolar disorder: an event-related potential study.

PubMed

Degabriele, Racheal; Lagopoulos, Jim; Malhi, Gin

2011-09-01

Behavioural and imaging studies report that individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) exhibit impairments in emotional face processing. However, few studies have studied the temporal characteristics of these impairments, and event-related potential (ERP) studies that investigate emotion perception in BD are rare. The aim of our study was to explore these processes as indexed by the face-specific P100 and N170 ERP components in a BD cohort. Eighteen subjects diagnosed with BD and 18 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers completed an emotional go/no-go inhibition task during electroencephalogram (EEG) and ERP acquisition. Patients demonstrated faster responses to happy compared to sad faces, whereas control data revealed no emotional discrimination. Errors of omission were more frequent in the BD group in both emotion conditions, but there were no between-group differences in commission errors. Significant differences were found between groups in P100 amplitude variation across levels of affect, with the BD group exhibiting greater responses to happy compared to sad faces. Conversely, the control cohort failed to demonstrate a differentiation between emotions. A statistically significant between-group effect was also found for N170 amplitudes, indicating reduced responses in the BD group. Future studies should ideally recruit BD patients across all three mood states (manic, depressive, and euthymic) with greater scrutiny of the effects of psychotropic medication. These ERP results primarily suggest an emotion-sensitive face processing impairment in BD whereby patients are initially more attuned to positive emotions as indicated by the P100 ERP component, and this may contribute to the emergence of bipolar-like symptoms. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Is blunted cardiovascular reactivity in depression mood-state dependent? A comparison of major depressive disorder remitted depression and healthy controls.

PubMed

Salomon, Kristen; Bylsma, Lauren M; White, Kristi E; Panaite, Vanessa; Rottenberg, Jonathan

2013-10-01

Prior work has repeatedly demonstrated that people who have current major depression exhibit blunted cardiovascular reactivity to acute stressors (e.g., Salomon et al., 2009). A key question regards the psychobiological basis for these deficits, including whether such deficits are depressed mood-state dependent or whether these effects are trait-like and are observed outside of depression episodes in vulnerable individuals. To examine this issue, we assessed cardiovascular reactivity to a speech stressor task and a forehead cold pressor in 50 individuals with current major depressive disorder (MDD), 25 with remitted major depression (RMD), and 45 healthy controls. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure and impedance cardiography were assessed and analyses controlled for BMI and sex. Significant group effects were found for SBP, HR, and PEP for the speech preparation period and HR, CO, and PEP during the speech. For each of these parameters, only the MDD group exhibited attenuated reactivity as well as impaired SBP recovery. Reactivity and recovery in the RMD group more closely resembled the healthy controls. Speeches given by the MDD group were rated as less persuasive than the RMD or healthy controls' speeches. No significant differences were found for the cold pressor. Blunted cardiovascular reactivity and impaired recovery in current major depression may be mood-state dependent phenomena and may be more reflective of motivational deficits than deficits in the physiological integrity of the cardiovascular system. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Is blunted cardiovascular reactivity in depression mood-state dependent? A comparison of major depressive disorder remitted depression and healthy controls

PubMed Central

Salomon, Kristen; Bylsma, Lauren M.; White, Kristi E.; Panaite, Vanessa; Rottenberg, Jonathan

2015-01-01

Prior work has repeatedly demonstrated that people who have current major depression exhibit blunted cardiovascular reactivity to acute stressors (e.g., Salomon et al., 2009). A key question regards the psychobiological basis for these deficits, including whether such deficits are depressed mood-state dependent or whether these effects are trait-like and are observed outside of depression episodes invulnerable individuals. To examine this issue, we assessed cardiovascular reactivity to a speech stressor task and a forehead cold pressor in 50 individuals with current major depressive disorder (MDD), 25 with remitted major depression (RMD), and 45 healthy controls. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure and impedance cardiography were assessed and analyses controlled for BMI and sex. Significant group effects were found for SBP, HR, and PEP for the speech preparation period and HR, CO, and PEP during the speech. For each of these parameters, only the MDD group exhibited attenuated reactivity as well as impaired SBP recovery. Reactivity and recovery in the RMD group more closely resembled the healthy controls. Speeches given by the MDD group were rated as less persuasive than the RMD or healthy controls' speeches. No significant differences were found for the cold pressor. Blunted cardiovascular reactivity and impaired recovery in current major depression may be mood-state dependent phenomena and may be more reflective of motivational deficits than deficits in the physiological integrity of the cardiovascular system. PMID:23756147

Effect of two prophylaxis methods on marginal gap of Cl Vresin-modified glass-ionomer restorations.

PubMed

Kimyai, Soodabeh; Pournaghi-Azar, Fatemeh; Daneshpooy, Mehdi; Abed Kahnamoii, Mehdi; Davoodi, Farnaz

2016-01-01

Background. This study evaluated the effect of two prophylaxis techniques on the marginal gap of CI V resin-modified glass-ionomer restorations. Methods. Standard Cl V cavities were prepared on the buccal surfaces of 48 sound bovine mandibular incisors in this in vitro study. After restoration of the cavities with GC Fuji II LC resin-modified glass-ionomer, the samples were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 16. In group 1, the prophylactic procedures were carried out with rubber cup and pumice powder and in group 2 with air-powder polishing device (APD). In group 3 (control), the samples did not undergo any prophylactic procedures. Then the marginal gaps were measured. Two-way ANOVA was used to compare marginal gaps at the occlusal and gingival margins between the groups. Post hoc Tukey test was used for two-by-two comparisons. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results. There were significant differences in the means of marginal gaps in terms of prophylactic techniques (P < 0.001), with significantly larger marginal gaps in the APD group compared to the pumice and rubber cup group, which in turn exhibited significantly larger marginal gaps compared to the control group (P < 0.0005). In addition, the means of marginal gaps were significant in terms of the margin type (P < 0.001), with significantly larger gaps at gingival margins compared to the occlusal margins (P < 0.0005). Conclusion. The prophylactic techniques used in this study had a negative effect on the marginal gaps of Cl V resin-modified glass-ionomer restorations.

Higher order contribution to the propagation characteristics of low frequency transverse waves in a dusty plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Misra, A. P.; Chowdhury, A. Roy; Paul, S. N.

2004-09-01

Characteristic features of low frequency transverse wave propagating in a magnetised dusty plasma have been analysed considering the effect of dust-charge fluctu- ation. The distinctive behaviours of both the left circularly polarised and right circularly polarised waves have been exhibited through the analysis of linear and non-linear disper- sion relations. The phase velocity, group velocity, and group travel time for the waves have been obtained and their propagation characteristics have been shown graphically with the variations of wave frequency, dust density and amplitude of the wave. The change in non-linear wave number shift and Faraday rotation angle have also been exhibited with respect to the plasma parameters. It is observed that the effects of dust particles are significant only when the higher order contributions are considered. This may be referred to as the `dust regime' in plasma.

Synthesis, Luminescent Properties of aza-Boron-Diquinomethene Difluoride Complexes and Their Application for Fluorescent Security Inks.

PubMed

Gu, Long; Liu, Rui; Shi, Hong; Wang, Qiang; Song, Guangliang; Zhu, Xiaolin; Yuan, Shidong; Zhu, Hongjun

2016-03-01

Two aza-boron-diquinomethene (aza-BODIQU) complexes bearing phenyl and carbazyl substituents were synthesized and characterized. Their photophysical properties were investigated systematically via spectroscopic and theoretical methods. Both complexes exhibit strong (1)π-π* transition absorptions (λ(abs) = 400-540 nm) and intense fluorescent emissions (λ(em) = 440-600 nm, Φ(PL) = 0.93 and 0.78) in CH2Cl2 solution and in solid state at room temperature. Compared to the complex with phenyl groups, the complex bearing carbazyl groups shows significant bathochromic shift in both absorption and emission. This could be attributed to the larger π-electron conjugation of the carbazole unit and intramolecular charge transfer feature from carbazole to aza-BODIQU component. In addition, the complexes exhibit intense photoluminescence and good stability on antacid, anti-alkali and stability in printing ink samples, which makes them potential dopants for the application of fluorescent security inks.

Group cognitive remediation therapy for chronic schizophrenia: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tan, Shuping; Zou, Yizhuang; Wykes, Til; Reeder, Clare; Zhu, Xiaolin; Yang, Fude; Zhao, Yanli; Tan, Yunlong; Fan, Fengmei; Zhou, Dongfeng

2016-07-28

Individual-level cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) has been shown to be effective for cognitive improvement and social function amelioration. Here, we aimed to test the efficacy of group-based CRT in Chinese subjects with schizophrenia. One-hundred and four inpatients were randomly assigned to either 40 sessions of small-group CRT therapy or therapeutic contact-matched Musical and Dancing Therapy (MDT). Cognitive and social functioning, as well as clinical symptoms, were evaluated over the course of treatment. Specifically, cognitive function was evaluated using a battery of cognitive measurements, clinical symptoms were evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, and social function was evaluated using the Nurse's Observation Scale for Inpatient Evaluation-30. All patients were evaluated pre- and post-treatment. Forty-four individuals in the CRT group and 46 in the MDT group completed all of the planned treatments and analyses. Cognitive functions, especially cognitive flexibility and memory, showed significant improvement in the CRT group over the course of the study. The MDT group also showed improvement in several cognitive flexibility assessments, but the degree of improvement was significantly greater in the CRT group. Several social-function factors exhibited a significant improvement in the CRT group, but not in the MDT group. Cognitive function improvement correlated positively with social function without predicting social function change. We conclude that group-based CRT is an effective and promising therapy. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

The α-lipoic acid improves high-fat diet-induced cerebral damage through inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction.

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Zhang, Qinghua; Wang, Li; Wang, Hui; Sun, Tao; Xia, Hechun; Yang, Yi; Zhang, Li

2017-12-01

This study is to clarify the protective role of α-lipoic acid in high-fat diet-induced cerebral damage mice. The mice were divided into 5 groups: normal control group, high-fat diet (HFD) group, low-dose α-lipoic acid group for prevention, high-dose α-lipoic acid group for prevention, and high-dose α-lipoic acid group for treatment. The groups' weights and blood glucose changes were monitored. We used HE staining to observe morphological changes in the cerebral cortex. The expression levels of the oxidative stress proteins SOD2, catalase, and the inflammatory pathway proteins p-JNK, p-ERK were measured by western blot and immunochemistry. Compared with the control group, the quantity of cortical neurons in the HFD group was decreased, and the samples exhibited retrogression. However, the lipoic acid significantly protected and promoted the cortical neurons survival. Moreover, compared with the HFD group, the expression levels of SOD2 and catalase in the three α-lipoic acid obtained groups were significantly increased. However, the expression levels of the inflammatory pathway proteins p-JNK and p-ERK were significantly decreased. These results indicate that theα-lipoic acid greatly protects the cortical neurons, and inhibited the oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in the high-fat diet mice. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identification of Pulmonary Hypertension Caused by Left-Sided Heart Disease (World Health Organization Group 2) Based on Cardiac Chamber Volumes Derived From Chest CT Imaging.

PubMed

Aviram, Galit; Rozenbaum, Zach; Ziv-Baran, Tomer; Berliner, Shlomo; Topilsky, Yan; Fleischmann, Dominik; Sung, Yon K; Zamanian, Roham T; Guo, Haiwei Henry

2017-10-01

Evaluations of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) commonly include chest CT imaging. We hypothesized that cardiac chamber volumes calculated from the same CT scans can yield additional information to distinguish PH related to left-sided heart disease (World Health Organization group 2) from other PH subtypes. Patients who had PH confirmed by right heart catheterization and contrast-enhanced chest CT studies were enrolled in this retrospective multicenter study. Cardiac chamber volumes were calculated using automated segmentation software and compared between group 2 and non-group 2 patients with PH. This study included 114 patients with PH, 27 (24%) of whom were classified as group 2 based on their pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. Patients with group 2 PH exhibited significantly larger median left atrial (LA) volumes (118 mL vs 63 mL; P < .001), larger median left ventricular (LV) volumes (90 mL vs 76 mL; P = .02), and smaller median right ventricular (RV) volumes (173 mL vs 210 mL; P = .005) than did non-group 2 patients. On multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, and mean pulmonary arterial pressure, group 2 PH was significantly associated with larger median LA and LV volumes (P < .001 and P = .008, respectively) and decreased volume ratios of RA/LA, RV/LV, and RV/LA (P = .001, P = .004, and P < .001, respectively). Enlarged LA volumes demonstrated a high discriminatory ability for group 2 PH (area under the curve, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.870-0.968). Volumetric analysis of the cardiac chambers from nongated chest CT scans, particularly with findings of an enlarged left atrium, exhibited high discriminatory ability for identifying patients with PH due to left-sided heart disease. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

When Membership Gives Strength to Act: Inclusion of the Group Into the Self and Feeling of Personal Agency.

PubMed

Besta, Tomasz; Mattingly, Brent; Błażek, Magdalena

2016-01-01

Identity fusion theory suggests that merging groups into one's personal identity should result in heightened levels of group agency. Research on the self-expansion model complementarily indicates that including others into the self is linked to a greater feeling of self-efficacy. Across three correlational studies, we examined whether personal and group identity fusion is associated with stronger feelings of personal agency, and we propose that relatively stable feelings of clarity of self-concept would mediate this association. Individuals strongly fused with a country (Studies 1-3) and family (Study 2) exhibited greater feelings of agency and goal-adherence, and self-concept clarity emerged as a significant mediator of this association when controlling for group identification measures.

49 CFR 173.127 - Class 5, Division 5.1-Definition and assignment of packing groups.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...) Packing Group II, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise time less than or equal to the pressure... Packing Group I are not met. (iii) Packing Group III, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise... packing groups. 173.127 Section 173.127 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation...

49 CFR 173.127 - Class 5, Division 5.1-Definition and assignment of packing groups.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...) Packing Group II, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise time less than or equal to the pressure... Packing Group I are not met. (iii) Packing Group III, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise... packing groups. 173.127 Section 173.127 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation...

The effects of proportional representation and gender orientation of the task on emergent leadership behavior in mixed-gender work groups.

PubMed

Karakowsky, L; Siegel, J P

1999-08-01

Much of the research that has examined the behavioral consequences of membership in mixed-gender work groups suggests that men are more participative and influential in task-related behavior. Drawing from elements of sociological, structural, and psychological perspectives, this study examined the effects of group gender composition and gender orientation of the group's task on patterns of emergent leadership behavior. Participants were assigned to male-dominated, female-dominated, or balanced-gender groups for the purpose of discussing and generating solutions for two business-related cases--each case emphasized either male-oriented or female-oriented expertise. The findings suggest that the proportional representation of men and women in a work group, along with the gender orientation of the group's task, can significantly influence the level of leadership behavior exhibited in group activity.

Effect of a nutrient mixture on the localization of extracellular matrix proteins in HeLa human cervical cancer xenografts in female nude mice.

PubMed

Roomi, M Waheed; Cha, John; Kalinovsky, Tatiana; Roomi, Nusrath; Niedzwiecki, Aleksandra; Rath, Matthias

2015-09-01

Cervical cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and a significant cause of mortality in women worldwide. Although cervical cancer is fully treatable in the early stages, once it has metastasized, patient outcome is poor. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with a nutrient mixture (NM) containing lysine, ascorbic acid, proline, green tea extract and other micronutrients on the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in HeLa cell xenografts in nude female mice. After housing for 1 week, female athymic nude mice between 5 and 6 weeks of age (n=12) were inoculated subcutaneously with 3×10 6 HeLa cells in phosphate-buffered saline and Matrigel and randomly divided into two groups. These were the control group, in which the mice were fed with regular mouse chow, and the NM group, in which the mice were fed with the regular diet supplemented with 0.5% NM (w/w). After 4 weeks, the tumors were excised and processed for histology. Tumor growth was evaluated and the tumors were stained for the ECM proteins collagen I, collagen IV, fibronectin, laminin, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and elastin. NM strongly inhibited (by 59%, P=0.001) the growth of HeLa xenografts in nude mice. Tumors from control mice exhibited little to no collagen I expression either internally or in the fibrous capsule, while tumors from the NM group expressed collagen I in the fibrous capsule and within the tumor. Tumors from the control group showed diffuse cytoplasmic and capsular collagen IV with abundant nucleated cells. NM treatment substantially increased collagen IV production and induced a dense fibrous network of collagen IV with chambers that surrounded live nucleated cells and large amounts of necrotic cell debris. Tumors from the mice fed with the NM exhibited a well-defined border of fibronectin in the capsule and intense areas of staining internally whereas control group tumors showed less overall fibronectin with sporadic internal staining and little in the fibrous capsule. Although laminin appeared abundantly in control and NM-treated tumors, the NM group tumors exhibited a chamber-like network of laminin internally. Tumors from the control group exhibited internal areas of intense PAS staining, whereas tumors from the NM-treated group exhibited a more uniform diffuse pattern of PAS staining. In conclusion, NM supplementation of HeLa xenograft-bearing female nude mice demonstrated a potent inhibition of tumor growth and enhancement of ECM proteins, suggesting the therapeutic value of this specific nutrient complex in the treatment of cervical cancer.

Confamiliar transferability of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) to twenty two Malvaceous species.

PubMed

Satya, Pratik; Paswan, Pramod Kumar; Ghosh, Swagata; Majumdar, Snehalata; Ali, Nasim

2016-06-01

Cross-species transferability is a quick and economic method to enrich SSR database, particularly for minor crops where little genomic information is available. However, transferability of SSR markers varies greatly between species, genera and families of plant species. We assessed confamiliar transferability of SSR markers from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and jute (Corchorus olitorius) to 22 species distributed in different taxonomic groups of Malvaceae. All the species selected were potential industrial crop species having little or no genomic resources or SSR database. Of the 14 cotton SSR loci tested, 13 (92.86 %) amplified in G. arboreum and 71.43 % exhibited cross-genera transferability. Nine out of 11 jute SSRs (81.81 %) showed cross-transferability across genera. SSRs from both the species exhibited high polymorphism and resolving power in other species. The correlation between transferability of cotton and jute SSRs were highly significant (r = 0.813). The difference in transferability among species was also significant for both the marker groups. High transferability was observed at genus, tribe and subfamily level. At tribe level, transferability of jute SSRs (41.04 %) was higher than that of cotton SSRs (33.74 %). The tribe Byttnerieae exhibited highest SSR transferability (48.7 %). The high level of cross-genera transferability (>50 %) in ten species of Malvaceae, where no SSR resource is available, calls for large scale transferability testing from the enriched SSR databases of cotton and jute.

Career maturity and state anxiety of Taiwanese college student athletes given cognitive career-oriented group counseling.

PubMed

Peng, Huiling; Johanson, Robert E

2006-12-01

In this study, the extent to which a cognitive career-based group counseling program might promote career maturity and decrease state anxiety among student athletes was investigated at two business colleges in Taiwan. 80 male and female participant volunteers, averaging about 19 years of age, were divided into control and treatment groups in each college. The treated group was given instruction. Analysis indicates that treated students exhibited overall lower mean state anxiety than the nontreated group. However, no significant treatment group differences were detected among participants' career maturity scores. The results raise important questions regarding the ways in which institutions of higher education seek benefit from student athletes' physical talents, e.g., increased name recognition, yet often do not prepare them for their careers postgraduation.

Cognitive inconsistency in bipolar patients is determined by increased intra-individual variability in initial phase of task performance.

PubMed

Krukow, Paweł; Szaniawska, Ola; Harciarek, Michał; Plechawska-Wójcik, Małgorzata; Jonak, Kamil

2017-03-01

Bipolar patients show high intra-individual variability during cognitive processing. However, it is not known whether there are a specific fluctuations of variability contributing to the overall high cognitive inconsistency. The objective was to compare dynamic profiles of patients and healthy controls to identify hypothetical differences and their associations with overall variability and processing speed. Changes of reaction times iSD during processing speed test performance over time was measured by dividing the iSD for whole task into four consecutive parts. Motor speed and cognitive effort were controlled. Patients with BD exhibited significantly lower results regarding processing speed and higher intra-individual variability comparing with HC. The profile of intra-individual variability changes over time of performance was significantly different in BD versus HC groups: F(3, 207)=8.60, p<0.0001, η p 2 =0.11. iSD of BD patients in the initial phase of performance was three times higher than in the last. There was no significant differences between four intervals in HC group. Inter-group difference in the initial part of the profiles was significant also after controlling for several cognitive and clinical variables. Applied computer version of Cognitive Speed Test was relatively new and, thus, replication studies are needed. Effect seen in the present study is driven mainly by the BD type I. Patients with BD exhibits problems with setting a stimulus-response association in starting phase of cognitive processing. This deficit may negatively interfere with the other cognitive functions, decreasing level of psychosocial functioning, therefore should be explored in future studies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of tibiotalar alignment on coronal plane mechanics following total ankle replacement.

PubMed

Grier, A Jordan; Schmitt, Abigail C; Adams, Samuel B; Queen, Robin M

2016-07-01

Gait mechanics following total ankle replacement (TAR) have reported improved ankle motion following surgery. However, no studies have addressed the impact of preoperative radiographic tibiotalar alignment on post-TAR gait mechanics. We therefore investigated whether preoperative tibiotalar alignment (varus, valgus, or neutral) resulted in significantly different coronal plane mechanics or ground reaction forces post-TAR. We conducted a non-randomized study of 93 consecutive end-stage ankle arthritis patients. Standard weight-bearing radiographs were obtained preoperatively to categorize patients as having neutral (±4°), varus (≥5° of varus), or valgus (≥5° of valgus) coronal plane tibiotalar alignment. All patients underwent a standard walking assessment including three-dimensional lower extremity kinetics and kinematics preoperatively, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. A significant group by time interaction was observed for the propulsive vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), coronal plane hip range of motion (ROM) and the peak hip abduction moment. The valgus group demonstrated an increase in the peak knee adduction angle and knee adduction angle at heel strike when compared to the other groups. Coronal plane ankle ROM, knee and hip angles at heel strike, and the peak hip angle exhibited significant increases across time. Peak ankle inversion moment, peak knee abduction moment and the weight acceptance vGRF also exhibited significant increases across time. Neutral ankle alignment was achieved for all patients by 2 years following TAR. Restoration of neutral ankle alignment at the time of TAR in patients with preoperative varus or valgus tibiotalar alignment resulted in biomechanics similar to those of patients with neutral preoperative tibiotalar alignment by 24-month follow-up. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The role of nesfatin-1 expression in letrozole-induced polycystic ovaries in the rat.

PubMed

Xu, Yingqiao; Zhang, Hua; Li, Qingchun; Lao, Kaixue; Wang, Yanlin

2017-06-01

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex and heterogeneous endocrine disorder, generally exhibiting the characteristic features of hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance (IR) and obesity. Nesfatin-1 is derived from the precursor nucleobindin2 (NUCB2), and plays an active role in energy balance, glucose metabolism and most likely gonadal function. In order to explore the role of nesfatin-1, we employed a rat model that uses letrozole to induce PCOS. The PCOS rats exhibited increased body weight, irregular cycles, polycystic ovaries characterized by cysts formed from atretic follicles, and a diminished granulosa layer. The expression of both nesfatin-1 mRNA and protein in the ovarian tissues of PCOS group decreased significantly compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Nesfatin-1 expression in peripheral blood also decreased in the PCOS group, in contrast with the control group. Furthermore, we found that nesfatin-1 had a positive correlation with FSH, E 2 and P, whereas it had a negative correlation with LH, and total T (p < 0.05). When taken together, these data indicated that the decrease in nesfatin-1 may contribute to the mechanism governing PCOS, and might provide a new potential target for therapies aimed at treating PCOS.

Evaluation of physiotherapy in the treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease.

PubMed

Brech, Guilherme Carlos; Guarnieiro, Roberto

2006-12-01

Physiotherapy using muscle strengthening and stretching exercises is claimed to have beneficial effects in the treatment of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease; however, no scientific evidence is available concerning effectiveness of treatment. The purpose of the present study was to clinically evaluate possible effects of the proposed physiotherapeutic effects compared to observational follow-up in patients with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. A prospective follow-up study was conducted in 17 patients with unilateral Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, divided into 2 groups: Group A (observational follow-up) and Group B (physiotherapeutic follow-up). In order to evaluate the outcome of the adopted treatments, the following parameters were assessed: articular range of motion, level of muscular strength, level of articular dysfunction, and radiographic status, both before and after the treatment. Group B exhibited significant improvement in articular range of motion concerning hip flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, medial rotation, and lateral rotation, while in Group A an equally significant worsening occurred concerning abduction, adduction, and medial rotation. Muscular strength also improved in Group B, mainly in the set of hip flexor muscles, while Group A showed no changes. Articular dysfunction after therapy compared to pretherapy was significantly reduced in Group B and increased in Group A. Patients undergoing physiotherapy exercises showed no changes in their radiographic features. Physiotherapy produced significant improvement in articular range of motion, muscular strength, and articular dysfunction in patients with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, but these improvements were not evident on radiographs.

Design and activity of novel lactoferrampin analogues against O157:H7 enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Cruz, Jenniffer; Ortiz, Claudia; Guzmán, Fanny; Cárdenas, Constanza; Fernandez-Lafuente, Roberto; Torres, Rodrigo

2014-04-01

Lactoferrampin 265-284 (LFampin 265-284) is a peptide consisting of residues 265-284 of N1-domain of bovine Lactoferrin (LF). This peptide has several cationic groups in the C-terminal lobe, exhibiting an antibacterial activity against a wide range of microorganisms. However, LFampin 265-284 exhibits low antimicrobial activity against the O157:H7 enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC O157:H7) when compared with Lactoferrin chimera and Lactoferricin. Here, we have designed three analogues of LFampin 265-284 based on the distribution of cationic groups, hydrophobicity, size, and sequence. Analogues were synthesized by solid phase chemistry using Fmoc methodology obtaining peptides with 95% purity. All peptides maintain the ability to adopt helical conformations (checked by circular dichroism spectra and molecular simulations). Some of these analogues exhibited a significant increase in antimicrobial activity by counting colony forming units against EHEC O157:H7 compared to native LFampin 265-284, with MIC of 10 and 40 µM for 264G-D265K and 264G-D265K/S272R, respectively. The incorporation of a GKLI sequence in the N-terminal lobe increased dramatically its antibacterial activity, an effect which has been attributed to the addition of cationic groups in the N-terminal side that may stabilize the helical conformation of the new designed peptides. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Modulation of gut microbiota and increase in fecal water content in mice induced by administration of Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens DN1.

PubMed

Jeong, Dana; Kim, Dong-Hyeon; Kang, Il-Byeong; Kim, Hyunsook; Song, Kwang-Young; Kim, Hong-Seok; Seo, Kun-Ho

2017-02-22

Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens is the key probiotic bacterium in kefir. In this study, we investigated the effects of oral consumption of L. kefiranofaciens on the fecal quality and intestinal microbiota of mice. Four-week-old Balb/c mice were divided into two groups (n = 8 each) and administered 0.2 mL of saline (control group) or saline containing 2 × 10 8 cfu L. kefiranofaciens DN1 (LKF_DN1 group) for two weeks. At the end of the experiment, their fecal samples were collected and the fecal quality and microbiota were assessed. The LKF_DN1 group exhibited higher total fecal weight and fecal weight per stool sample than the control group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the fecal water content was significantly higher in the fecal samples of the LKF_DN1 group than in those of the control group (p < 0.05). The numbers of total bacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella were significantly higher in the LKF_DN1 group than in the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the number of opportunistic pathogens, including Proteobacteria and Enterobacteriaceae, and the percentage of genus Clostridium among the total bacteria were significantly reduced in the LKF_DN1 group (p < 0.05). Our data suggest that regular L. kefiranofaciens DN1 administration could alleviate constipation and improve gut microbiota.

Combined effects of aerobic exercise and omega-3 fatty acids in hyperlipidemic persons.

PubMed

Warner, J G; Ullrich, I H; Albrink, M J; Yeater, R A

1989-10-01

Because both aerobic exercise and fish oil ingestion have been shown to decrease plasma lipids, we examined the effects of combining these modalities in hyperlipidemic subjects. Thirty-four subjects were randomly assigned to one of four groups as follows: fish oil and exercise (FE), N = 7, 50 ml of oil daily and 3 d.wk-1 of aerobic exercise; fish oil (F), N = 7, 50 ml of oil daily; corn oil (CN), N = 10, 50 ml of oil daily; and control (C), N = 10. Blood samples were drawn at baseline and at the end of 4, 8, and 12 wk. The FE and F groups showed significantly lower triglycerides with respect to treatment as compared to the CN and C groups. The FE, F, and CN groups exhibited lower total cholesterol values than the control group but were not different from each other. HDL cholesterol was significantly increased after treatment in the FE and F groups as compared to the CN and C groups. Serum apo-B, LDL cholesterol, and LDL protein decreased significantly in the FE group but not the F group from baseline to 12 wk. VO2max increased and percent fat decreased only in the FE group. In conclusion, aerobic exercise improved the effects of fish oil on LDL cholesterol and apo-B and improved fitness and body composition in hyperlipidemic subjects.

Surfactant effects on the viability and function of human mesenchymal stem cells: in vitro and in vivo assessment.

PubMed

Chen, Chung-Ming; Chou, Hsiu-Chu; Lin, Willie; Tseng, Chris

2017-08-03

Surfactant therapy has become the standard of care for preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Preclinical studies have reported the therapeutic benefits of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia. This study investigated the effects of a surfactant on the in vitro viability and in vivo function of human MSCs. The viability, phenotype, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of MSCs were assessed through flow cytometry. The in vivo function was assessed after intratracheal injection of human MSCs (1 × 10 5 cells) diluted in 30 μl of normal saline (NS), 10 μl of a surfactant diluted in 20 μl of NS, and 10 μl of a surfactant and MSCs (1 × 10 5 cells) diluted in 20 μl of NS in newborn rats on postnatal day 5. The pups were reared in room air (RA) or an oxygen-enriched atmosphere (85% O 2 ) from postnatal days 1 to 14; eight study groups were examined: RA + NS, RA + MSCs, RA + surfactant, RA + surfactant + MSCs, O 2  + NS, O 2  + MSCs, O 2  + surfactant, and O 2  + surfactant + MSCs. The lungs were excised for histological and cytokine analysis on postnatal day 14. Compared with the controls, surfactant-treated MSCs showed significantly reduced viability and MMP after exposure to 1:1 and 1:2 of surfactant:MSCs for 15 and 60 minutes. All human MSC samples exhibited similar percentages of CD markers, regardless of surfactant exposure. The rats reared in hyperoxia and treated with NS exhibited a significantly higher mean linear intercept (MLI) than did those reared in RA and treated with NS, MSCs, surfactant, or surfactant + MSCs. Treatment with MSCs, surfactant, or surfactant + MSCs significantly reduced the hyperoxia-induced increase in MLI. The O 2  + surfactant + MSCs group exhibited a significantly higher MLI than did the O 2  + MSCs group. Furthermore, treatment with MSCs and MSCs + surfactant significantly reduced the hyperoxia-induced increase in apoptotic cells. Combination therapy involving a surfactant and MSCs does not exert additive effects on lung development in hyperoxia-induced lung injury.

Effectiveness of metal surface treatments in controlling microleakage of the acrylic resin-metal framework interface.

PubMed

Sharp, B; Morton, D; Clark, A E

2000-12-01

Microleakage at the junction between the metal alloy and acrylic resin in a removable partial denture may result in discoloration, fluid percolation, and acrylic resin deterioration. The junction between a metal alloy and acrylic resin is an area of clinical concern. Failure of a removable partial denture may be linked to this interface. Enhancing resistance to microleakage at this interface may improve the long-term union between the 2 materials. This investigation was designed to determine the effects of various metal surface treatment protocols on microleakage and bond strength between the metal alloy and acrylic resin used in the fabrication of a removable partial denture. Ninety-six nickel-chromium-beryllium alloy specimens were randomly divided into 8 groups. After adaptation of baseplate wax, each specimen was invested. Subsequent to wax removal, each specimen was divided into a control half and an experimental half. Air abrasion, tinplating/oxidation, and silanation were evaluated individually and in all combinations. Heat-polymerized acrylic resin was processed against all specimens before storage in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 72 hours. Each specimen then was thermocycled in distilled water (3000 cycles) before immersion in sodium fluorescein dye for 24 hours. Counting grids that exhibited dye penetration under ultraviolet light exposure allowed assessment of microleakage. Air abrasion resulted in a significant decrease in microleakage when used individually and in all combinations (P<0.05). All experimental combinations that did not involve air abrasion demonstrated no significant reduction in measured microleakage between the experimental and control sides. Tukey's pair-wise comparison of the difference in the mean number of squares exhibiting microleakage between the control and treated sites for each experimental group revealed a significant difference, based on the involvement of air abrasion. Groups involving air abrasion did not differ significantly from each other (P<0.05). In addition, no significant difference was detected between groups not involving air abrasion (P<0.05). Air abrasion, alone and in combination with tinplating/oxidation and with silanation, resulted in a significant reduction in microleakage between the metal alloy and acrylic resin.

Effects of rehabilitation management on gastric emptying function in older adults with diabetes.

PubMed

Shao, Z M; Yao, J F; Chen, J; Yu, Z W; Yu, X F; Zheng, J J; Tang, X

2014-01-24

The relationship between gastric emptying dysfunction and blood glucose concentration in elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus was investigated, and the effect of rehabilitation exercise prescription training on gastric emptying in the geriatric diabetic patients was evaluated. A total of 160 older type 2 diabetic adults and 30 cases of non-diabetic patients were studied with regard to the gastric half emptying time (GET1/2) of solid meals radiolabelled with 99mTc. Eighty delayed gastric emptying diabetic patients were randomly divided into 4 four groups: rehabilitation exercise + mosapride group (N = 20), rehabilitation exercise group (N = 20), mosapride group (N = 20), and control group (N = 20). The level of blood glucose was measured every six months in a two-year follow-up. The solid GET1/2 of regulated blood glycemic control patients showed no statistically significant differences from non-diabetic patients (P > 0.05). However, the value for poor blood glycemic control patients exhibited significant statistical differences compared with both non-diabetic (P < 0.01) and regulated blood glycemic control group patients (P < 0.01). It showed that the gastric emptying time improved in the rehabilitation exercise group, mosapride group and rehabilitation exercise group + mosapride group after two years of treatment (P < 0.05). Fasting blood glucose in both rehabilitation exercise group and rehabilitation exercise + mosapride group was significantly decreased. Postprandial blood glucose in the rehabilitation exercise group, mosapride group, rehabilitation exercise group + mosapride group was significantly decreased. High blood glucose level can delay gastric emptying in older type 2 diabetic patients. Gastric emptying and blood glucose control affect each other. It was shown that appropriate rehabilitation exercise combined with prokinetic agent may improve gastric emptying in some geriatric type 2 diabetic patients and help control their blood glucose.

Long-term Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Pedicle Subtraction Osteotomy for Fixed Sagittal Imbalance: Does Level of Proximal Fusion Affect the Outcome? Minimum 5-Year Follow-up.

PubMed

Yagi, Mitsuru; King, Akilah B; Cunningham, Matthew E; Boachie-Adjei, Oheneba

2013-03-01

Retrospective case series of surgically treated adult patients with fixed sagittal imbalance. To assess clinical and radiographic changes after pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) to treat adult fixed sagittal imbalance. Although recent reports have shown favorable clinical outcomes for PSO, few reports have published long-term follow-up outcomes. It is also unknown whether long-term outcomes are correlated with the level of proximal fusion and the radiographic changes that are observed after PSO. We reviewed the charts, X-rays, and postoperative SRS-22 and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores of 32 adult patients who presented with fixed sagittal imbalance and were treated with lumbar PSO. Long fusions were defined as those proximal to T6, and short fusions were defined as those below T8. Measured radiographic parameters included thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope, pelvic incidence, and sagittal balance (SVA). Statistical analysis included Student t test and chi-square test. A p value of < .05 and a confidence interval of 95% were considered statistically significant. Among the reviewed cases were 23 women and 9 men, with a mean age of 50.9 years (range, 33-76 years) and a mean follow-up 8.6 years (range, 5-16 years). The LL increased from -16.0° preoperatively to -52.1° postoperatively. This metric decreased to -51.0° at final follow-up. The SVA decreased from 10.4 cm preoperatively to 3.6 cm postoperatively. The SVA increased to 5.4 cm at the final follow-up visit. There were 17 long fusions and 15 short fusions. The SRS scores at the final follow-up time point were: total, 3.63; function, 3.59; pain, 3.68; self-image, 3.46; mental health, 3.56; satisfaction, 4.26. A total of 16 patients exhibited minimal disability, 11 exhibited moderate disability, and 2 exhibited severe disability in ODI scores at the final follow-up visit (average, 28.2%). The SRS and ODI scores were not significantly different between groups (p = .64 for SRS; p = .59 for ODI). We observed no significant differences between groups with respect to the LL, sacral slope, or pelvic incidence. The observed increase in SVA at the final follow-up visit was significantly larger in the short fusion group compared with the increase we observed in the long fusion group (p = .03). The thoracic kyphosis (T5-T12) and proximal junctional angle at the final follow-up visit also significantly increased in patients who underwent a short fusion (p < .001). A total of 14 major complications occurred in 12 patients (8 in the short fusion group and 6 in the long fusion group) (p = .43). Eight patients required additional surgery to treat these complications. In a group of adults presenting with fixed sagittal imbalance, PSO provided good sagittal balance and maintained favorable clinical outcomes in both the short and long fusion groups despite a slight decrease in the SVA and a high complication rate. The data suggest that the loss of sagittal balance may be attributed to increase global and junctional kyphosis in short fusion groups, and should be monitored for long-term outcomes. Particular attention should be paid to the long-term deterioration of the SVA in adults who present with fixed sagittal imbalance after PSO. Copyright © 2013 Scoliosis Research Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of urinary oxidative biomarkers in Iranian children with autism.

PubMed

Ranjbar, Akram; Rashedi, Vahid; Rezaei, Mohammad

2014-11-01

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder usually presents in early childhood and thought to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with autism vary widely in abilities, intelligence, and behaviors. It is common for children with autism to exhibit eating disorders and some have preferences for soft and sweetened food making them susceptible to caries. Furthermore, a wide spectrum of medical and behavioral symptoms exhibited by children with autism makes routine dental care very difficult. Intellectual disability is evident in approximately 70% of individuals with autism and most psychiatric disorders, including autism, are associated with increased oxidative stress. 29 subjects diagnosed with autism, in the age group of 6 to 12 years, were a part of the study. Furturemore, 24 normal healthy siblings of same age group were taken as the control group. The present study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress biomarkers such as urinary total antioxidant concentration (TAC), catalase activity (CAT) and total thiol molecules (TTM). The results showed the autism group have significantly higher CAT activity and concomitant lower TAC and TTM concentration in comparison with control group. The results are discussed in relation to an increased vulnerability to oxidative damage, which may contribute to the development and clinical manifestation of symptoms of autism. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Predictive role of brain connectivity for resective surgery in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

PubMed

Hur, Yun Jung; Kim, Heung Dong

2016-08-01

Callosotomy can reveal hidden primary epileptogenic areas in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). We studied the significance of causal connectivity for identifying hidden epileptogenic areas in preoperative electroencephalography (EEG) and for making a decision regarding resective surgery. We enrolled 18 LGS patients who underwent corpus callosotomy. Eight patients with unilateral epileptogenicity on post-callosotomy EEG underwent resective surgery (group A). Ten patients with independent bilateral epileptogenicity did not undergo resective surgery (group B). We analyzed generalized epileptiform discharges on pre-callosotomy EEG via direct directed transfer function (dDTF) and partial directed coherence (PDC). All regions exhibiting unilaterality in group A and bilaterality identified by dDTF or PDC in group B were concordant with the lateralization of the irritative zone on post-callosotomy EEG and with the localization of the resective areas, except for one patient in group A. The regions identified by dDTF exhibited high concordance rates with the resective areas in patients with good outcomes. Causal connectivity methods showed good concordance with hidden epileptogenic areas, and its concordance was associated with the prognosis of surgical outcome. This study provides evidence that causal connectivity methods can be helpful in deciding which type of surgery will be suitable for an LGS patient. Copyright © 2016 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spectroscopic, Structural, and Functional Characterization of the Alternative Low-Spin State of Horse Heart Cytochrome c

PubMed Central

Mugnol, Katia C. U.; Ando, Rômulo A.; Nagayasu, Rafael Y.; Faljoni-Alario, Adelaide; Brochsztain, Sergio; Santos, Paulo S.; Nascimento, Otaciro R.; Nantes, Iseli L.

2008-01-01

The alternative low-spin states of Fe3+ and Fe2+ cytochrome c induced by SDS or AOT/hexane reverse micelles exhibited the heme group in a less rhombic symmetry and were characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance, UV-visible, CD, magnetic CD, fluorescence, and Raman resonance. Consistent with the replacement of Met80 by another strong field ligand at the sixth heme iron coordination position, Fe3+ ALSScytc exhibited 1-nm Soret band blue shift and ɛ enhancement accompanied by disappearance of the 695-nm charge transfer band. The Raman resonance, CD, and magnetic CD spectra of Fe3+ and Fe2+ ALSScytc exhibited significant changes suggestive of alterations in the heme iron microenvironment and conformation and should not be assigned to unfold because the Trp59 fluorescence remained quenched by the neighboring heme group. ALSScytc was obtained with His33 and His26 carboxyethoxylated horse cytochrome c and with tuna cytochrome c (His33 replaced by Asn) pointing out Lys79 as the probable heme iron ligand. Fe3+ ALSScytc retained the capacity to cleave tert-butylhydroperoxide and to be reduced by dithiothreitol and diphenylacetaldehyde but not by ascorbate. Compatible with a more open heme crevice, ALSScytc exhibited a redox potential ∼200 mV lower than the wild-type protein (+220 mV) and was more susceptible to the attack of free radicals. PMID:18227133

The Associations Between Smoking Habits and Serum Triglyceride or Hemoglobin A1c Levels Differ According to Visceral Fat Accumulation

PubMed Central

Koda, Michiko; Kitamura, Itsuko; Okura, Tomohiro; Otsuka, Rei; Ando, Fujiko; Shimokata, Hiroshi

2016-01-01

Background Whether smokers and former smokers have worse lipid profiles or glucose levels than non-smokers remains unclear. Methods The subjects were 1152 Japanese males aged 42 to 81 years. The subjects were divided according to their smoking habits (nonsmokers, former smokers, and current smokers) and their visceral fat area (VFA) (<100 cm2 and ≥100 cm2). Results The serum triglyceride (TG) levels of 835 males were assessed. In the VFA ≥100 cm2 group, a significantly greater proportion of current smokers (47.3%) exhibited TG levels of ≥150 mg/dL compared with former smokers (36.4%) and non-smokers (18.8%). The difference in TG level distribution between former smokers and non-smokers was also significant. However, among the subjects with VFA of <100 cm2, the TG levels of the three smoking habit groups did not differ. The serum hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels of 877 males were also assessed. In the VFA <100 cm2 group, significantly higher proportions of current smokers (17.9%) and former smokers (14.9%) demonstrated HbA1c levels of ≥5.6% compared with non-smokers (6.3%). In contrast, in the VFA ≥100 cm2 group, significantly fewer former smokers displayed HbA1c levels of ≥5.6% compared with non-smokers and current smokers. Furthermore, the interaction between smoking habits and VFA was associated with the subjects’ TG and HbA1c concentrations, and the associations of TG and HbA1c concentrations and smoking habits varied according to VFA. Conclusions Both smoking habits and VFA exhibited associations with TG and HbA1c concentrations. The associations between smoking habits and these parameters differed according to VFA. PMID:26616395

A comparison of email versus letter threat contacts toward members of the United States Congress.

PubMed

Schoeneman-Morris, Katherine A; Scalora, Mario J; Chang, Grace H; Zimmerman, William J; Garner, Yancey

2007-09-01

To better understand inappropriate correspondence sent to public officials, 301 letter cases and 99 email cases were randomly selected from the United States Capitol Police investigative case files and compared. Results indicate that letter writers were significantly more likely than emailers to exhibit indicators of serious mental illness (SMI), engage in target dispersion, use multiple methods of contact, and make a problematic approach toward their target. Emailers were significantly more likely than letter writers to focus on government concerns, use obscene language, and display disorganization in their writing. Also, letter writers tended to be significantly older, have more criminal history, and write longer communications. A multivariate model found that disorganization, SMI symptoms, problematic physical approach, and target dispersion significantly differentiated between the correspondence groups. The group differences illuminated by this study reveal that letter writers are engaging in behavior that is higher risk for problematic approach than are emailers.

The relation of plasma androgen levels to sexual behaviors and attitudes of women.

PubMed

Persky, H; Dreisbach, L; Miller, W R; O'Brien, C P; Khan, M A; Lief, H I; Charney, N; Strauss, D

1982-09-01

Four androgens: dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (A), testosterone (T), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a variety of sexual behaviors and attitudes, and several moods were determined regularly in two groups of healthy, married women who differed by three decades in age. The younger women exhibited significantly higher levels of each androgen, the differences being almost entirely attributable to ovarian failure in the older group. Although the older women reported the same levels of sexual desire and sexual arousal as the younger women, their intercourse frequencies and self-rated sexual gratification scores were significantly lower than the values obtained for the younger wives. One or more of the androgen levels related significantly and in the expected direction to each stage of the four-stage sexual response process. Global measures of so-called "sexual adjustment" and estimates of anxiety, depression, and hostility feelings experienced by these women did not relate significantly to any of the four androgen levels.

Differences in Brain Metabolic Impairment between Chronic Mild/Moderate TBI Patients with and without Visible Brain Lesions Based on MRI.

PubMed

Ito, Keiichi; Asano, Yoshitaka; Ikegame, Yuka; Shinoda, Jun

2016-01-01

Introduction. Many patients with mild/moderate traumatic brain injury (m/mTBI) in the chronic stage suffer from executive brain function impairment. Analyzing brain metabolism is important for elucidating the pathological mechanisms associated with their symptoms. This study aimed to determine the differences in brain glucose metabolism between m/mTBI patients with and without visible traumatic brain lesions based on MRI. Methods. Ninety patients with chronic m/mTBI due to traffic accidents were enrolled and divided into two groups based on their MRI findings. Group A comprised 50 patients with visible lesions. Group B comprised 40 patients without visible lesions. Patients underwent FDG-PET scans following cognitive tests. FDG-PET images were analyzed using voxel-by-voxel univariate statistical tests. Results. There were no significant differences in the cognitive tests between Group A and Group B. Based on FDG-PET findings, brain metabolism significantly decreased in the orbital gyrus, cingulate gyrus, and medial thalamus but increased in the parietal and occipital convexity in Group A compared with that in the control. Compared with the control, patients in Group B exhibited no significant changes. Conclusions. These results suggest that different pathological mechanisms may underlie cognitive impairment in m/mTBI patients with and without organic brain damage.

Protective function of pyridoxamine on retinal photoreceptor cells via activation of the p‑Erk1/2/Nrf2/Trx/ASK1 signalling pathway in diabetic mice.

PubMed

Ren, Xiang; Sun, Hong; Zhang, Chenghong; Li, Chen; Wang, Jinlei; Shen, Jie; Yu, Dong; Kong, Li

2016-07-01

The present study aimed to investigate the mechanisms that mediate the protective effects of pyridoxamine (PM) on light‑damaged retinal photoreceptor cells in diabetic mice. A high‑fat diet and streptozotocin were used to induce a mouse model of type II diabetes. During the experiment, mice were divided the mice into three types of group, as follows: Control groups (negative control and light‑damaged groups); experimental groups (diabetic and diabetic light‑damaged groups); and treatment groups (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg PM‑treated groups). Using hematoxylin‑eosin staining, the number of nuclear layer cells were counted. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed to measure the levels of thioredoxin (Trx), phospho‑extracellular signal‑regulated kinase 1/2 (p‑Erk1/2), nuclear factor erythroid 2‑related factor 2 (Nrf2) and apoptosis signal‑regulating kinase 1 (ASK1). The photoreceptor cell count in the outer nuclear layer of the light‑damaged, diabetic control and diabetic light‑damaged groups were significantly reduced compared with the negative control group (P<0.001). The cell counts in the PM‑treated groups were significantly increased compared with the diabetic group (P<0.001). Compared with the negative control group, the light‑damaged, diabetic and diabetic light‑damaged groups exhibited significantly decreased Trx, p‑Erk1/2 and Nrf2 expression levels (P<0.001), and significantly increased ASK1 expression levels (P<0.001). However, in the PM‑treated groups, Trx, p‑Erk1/2 and Nrf2 expression levels were significantly increased (P<0.001), and ASK1 expression was significantly decreased (P<0.001). The results of the present study demonstrate that PM protects retinal photoreceptor cells against light damage in diabetic mice, and that its mechanism may be associated with the upregulation of Trx, p‑Erk1/2 and Nrf2 expression, and the downregulation of ASK1 expression.

Ambulatory Voice Biofeedback: Relative Frequency and Summary Feedback Effects on Performance and Retention of Reduced Vocal Intensity in the Daily Lives of Participants With Normal Voices

PubMed Central

Mehta, Daryush D.; Sternad, Dagmar; Petit, Robert; Hillman, Robert E.

2017-01-01

Purpose Ambulatory voice biofeedback has the potential to significantly improve voice therapy effectiveness by targeting carryover of desired behaviors outside the therapy session (i.e., retention). This study applies motor learning concepts (reduced frequency and delayed, summary feedback) that demonstrate increased retention to ambulatory voice monitoring for training nurses to talk softer during work hours. Method Forty-eight nurses with normal voices wore the Voice Health Monitor (Mehta, Zañartu, Feng, Cheyne, & Hillman, 2012) for 6 days: 3 baseline days, 1 biofeedback day, 1 short-term retention day, and 1 long-term retention day. Participants were block-randomized into 3 different biofeedback groups: 100%, 25%, and Summary. Performance was measured in terms of compliance time below a participant-specific vocal intensity threshold. Results All participants exhibited a significant increase in compliance time (Cohen's d = 4.5) during biofeedback days compared with baseline days. The Summary feedback group exhibited statistically smaller performance reduction during both short-term (d = 1.14) and long-term (d = 1.04) retention days compared with the 100% feedback group. Conclusions These findings suggest that modifications in feedback frequency and timing affect retention of a modified vocal behavior in daily life. Future work calls for studying the potential beneficial impact of ambulatory voice biofeedback in participants with behaviorally based voice disorders. PMID:28329366

Parental psychological symptoms and familial risk factors of children and adolescents who exhibit school refusal.

PubMed

Bahali, K; Tahiroglu, A Y; Avci, A; Seydaoglu, G

2011-12-01

To assess the levels of psychological symptoms in the parents of children with school refusal and determine the familial risk factors in its development. This study was performed on 55 pairs of parents who had children exhibiting school refusal and were compared with a control group. A socio-demographic data form, the Beck Depression Inventory, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Symptom Checklist-90 revised were applied to these parents. Parents of the school refusal group had higher anxiety and depression scores than the controls. Among the risk factors for school refusal, physical punishment by the parents, a history of organic disease in the parents or children, and a history of psychiatric disorders in the parents or other relatives were found to be significant. Depending on genetic and environmental factors, parents with psychiatric disorders appeared to be associated with development of psychiatric disorders in their children. Moreover, psychiatric disorders in parents negatively affected the treatment of their children and adolescents who exhibited school refusal. It is therefore vital to treat psychiatric disorders of parents with the children having psychiatric disorders, and thus increase parent participation in their children's therapeutic process.

Randomized trial of four noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus prevention interventions for children.

PubMed

Martin, William Hal; Griest, Susan E; Sobel, Judith L; Howarth, Linda C

2013-02-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of four NIHL prevention interventions at improving knowledge, attitudes, and intended behaviors regarding sound exposure and appropriate use of hearing protective strategies in children. A randomized trial of the four interventions with a non-intervention comparison group. Questionnaires were completed prior to, immediately after, and three months after each intervention. Interventions included: (1) A classroom presentation by older-peer educators, (2) A classroom presentation by health professionals, (3). Exploration of a museum exhibition, and (4). Exploration of an internet-based virtual museum. A comparison group received no intervention. Fifty-three fourth grade classrooms (1120 students) participated in the study. All interventions produced significant improvements but the number of improvements decreased over time. In terms of effectiveness, the classroom programs were more effective than the internet-based virtual exhibit, which was more effective than the visit to the museum exhibition. Self-reported exposures indicated that as many as 94.5% of participants were at risk for NIHL. Interpersonal, interactive educational interventions such as the classroom program are more effective and have longer impact than self-directed learning experiences for NIHL and tinnitus prevention, however each may have an important role in promoting hearing health in elementary school students.

Conventional and digital radiographic assessment of tooth enamel de-/remineralization processes: an experimental study.

PubMed

Leite-Ribeiro, Patrícia; de Oliveira, Thais Feitosa Leitão; Mathias, Paula; Campo, Elisângela de Jesus; Sarmento, Viviane Almeida

2014-01-01

This study aimed to compare digital techniques for evaluating dental enamel de-/remineralization. Sixty extracted molars were subjected to a process of de- and remineralization. Radiographs were taken before and after each stage. These radiographs were evaluated by the conventional method and were then scanned and analyzed either with or without the use of image enhancement. Moreover, the gray levels (GLs) of the affected areas were measured. All methods exhibited low sensitivity and identical levels of specificity (99.4%). Analysis of the grayscale levels found statistically significant differences between the initial radiographs (P < 0.05). The mean GL of the carious group was significantly lower than that of the remineralized group. The GL did not differ significantly between the initial and final radiographs of the remineralized group, although the mean of the first group was lower than that of the second, which demonstrated that the remineralization process restored the normal density of the dental enamel. Measurement of the mean GL was sufficiently sensitive to detect small alterations in the surface of the enamel.

The effect of playing a science center-based mobile game: Affective outcomes and gender differences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atwood-Blaine, Dana

Situated in a hands-on science center, The Great STEM Caper was a collaborative mobile game built on the ARIS platform that was designed to engage 5th-9th grade players in NGSS science and engineering practices while they interacted with various exhibits. Same gender partners sharing one iPad would search for QR codes placed at specific exhibits; scanning a code within the game would launch a challenge for that exhibit. The primary hypothesis was that in- game victories would be equivalent to "mastery experiences" as described by Bandura (1997) and would result in increased science self-efficacy. Gender differences in gameplay behaviors and perceptions were also studied. The study included two groups, one that played the game during their visit and one that explored the science center in the traditional way. The Motivation to Learn Science Questionnaire was administered to participants in both groups both before and after their visit to the science center. Participants wore head-mounted GoPro cameras to record their interactions within the physical and social environment. No differences in affective outcomes were found between the game and comparison groups or between boys and girls in the game group. The MLSQ was unable to measure any significant change in science self-efficacy, interest and enjoyment of science, or overall motivation to learn science in either group. However, girls outperformed boys on every measure of game achievement. Lazzaro's (2004) four types of fun were found to be a good fit for describing the gender differences in game perceptions and behaviors. Girls tended to enjoy hard fun and collaborative people fun while boys enjoyed easy fun and competitive people fun. While boys associated game achievement with enjoyment and victory, girls perceived their game achievement as difficult, rather than enjoyable or victorious.

Comparison of intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections with transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation for the management of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Chen, Wen-Ling; Hsu, Wei-Chun; Lin, Yi-Jia; Hsieh, Lin-Fen

2013-08-01

To compare the effects of intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA; ARTZ) and transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis. A prospective, randomized controlled trial. Rehabilitation clinic of a teaching hospital. Patients with knee osteoarthritis (N=50; aged 51-80y) were randomly assigned to the HA group (n=27) or the TENS group (n=23). The HA group received intra-articular HA injection into the affected knee once a week for 5 consecutive weeks, and the TENS group received a 20- minute session of TENS 3 times a week for 4 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome measures used were the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Lequesne index. The secondary outcome measures were range of motion of the knee, walking time, pain threshold, patient global assessment, and disability in activities of daily living. All subjects were assessed at baseline, and at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 3 months after the treatments were completed. The TENS group exhibited a significantly greater improvement in VAS than the HA group at 2 weeks' follow-up (4.17 ± 1.98 vs 5.31 ± 1.78, respectively; P=.03). In addition, the TENS group also exhibited a significantly greater improvement in the Lequesne index than the HA group at 2 weeks' follow-up (7.78 ± 2.08 vs 9.85 ± 3.54, respectively; P=.01) and at 3 months' follow-up (7.07 ± 2.85 vs 9.24 ± 4.04, respectively; P=.03). TENS with silver spike point electrodes was observed to be more effective than intra-articular HA injection for patients with knee osteoarthritis in improving the VAS for pain at 2 weeks' follow-up as well as the Lequesne index at 2 weeks' and 3 months' follow-up. Copyright © 2013 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Shoulder Plyometric Training on Amortization Time and Upper-Extremity Kinematics.

PubMed

Swanik, Kathleen A; Thomas, Stephen J; Struminger, Aaron H; Bliven, Kellie C Huxel; Kelly, John D; Swanik, Charles B

2016-12-01

Plyometric training is credited with providing benefits in performance and dynamic restraint. However, limited prospective data exist quantifying kinematic adaptations such as amortization time, glenohumeral rotation, and scapulothoracic position, which may underlie the efficacy of plyometric training for upper-extremity rehabilitation or performance enhancement. To measure upper-extremity kinematics and plyometric phase times before and after an 8-wk upper-extremity strength- and plyometric-training program. Randomized pretest-posttest design. Research laboratory. 40 recreationally active men (plyometric group, age 20.43 ± 1.40 y, height 180.00 ± 8.80 cm, weight 73.07 ± 7.21 kg; strength group, age 21.95 ± 3.40 y, height 173.98 ± 11.91 cm, weight 74.79 ± 13.55 kg). Participants were randomly assigned to either a strength-training group or a strength- and plyometric-training group. Each participant performed the assigned training for 8 wk. Dynamic and static glenohumeral and scapular-rotation measurements were taken before and after the training programs. Dynamic measurement of scapular rotation and time spent in each plyometric phase (concentric, eccentric, and amortization) during a ball-toss exercise were recorded while the subjects were fitted with an electromagnetic tracking system. Static measures included scapular upward rotation at 3 different glenohumeral-abduction angles, glenohumeral internal rotation, and glenohumeral external rotation. Posttesting showed that both groups significantly decreased the time spent in the amortization, concentric, and eccentric phases of a ball-toss exercise (P < .01). Both groups also exhibited significantly decreased static external rotation and increased dynamic scapular upward rotation after the training period (P < .01). The only difference between the training protocols was that the plyometric-training group exhibited an increase in internal rotation that was not present in the strength-training group (P < .01). These findings support the use of both upper-extremity plyometrics and strength training for reducing commonly identified upper-extremity-injury risk factors and improving upper-extremity performance.

The effect of human blood on the setting and surface micro-hardness of calcium silicate cements.

PubMed

Song, Minju; Yue, Wonyoung; Kim, Soyeon; Kim, Wooksung; Kim, Yaelim; Kim, Jeong-Woong; Kim, Euiseong

2016-11-01

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of human blood on the setting and microhardness of calcium silicate cements. Three types of silicate-based cements were used: ProRoot MTA (PMTA), OrthoMTA (OMTA), and RetroMTA (RMTA). Mixed cement was placed into polyethylene molds with lengths of 2 and 4 mm. After storage for 4 days under three different storage conditions, i.e., saline, saline after 5 min of human blood, and human blood, the polyethylene molds were removed. With the specimens set, the surface microhardness was measured using a Vickers microhardness tester, crystalline structure was analyzed with X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the surface characteristics were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). All specimens of 4 mm in length were set with all materials, and the blood groups exhibited lower microhardnesses than did the saline groups (p < 0.05). Among the 2-mm specimens that were stored in blood, the numbers of specimens that set were significantly different across the materials (p < 0.001). Regarding the microhardnesses of the RMTA and OMTA groups, there were no significant differences between storage conditions. For the PMTA group, only one specimen that was set in the blood group exhibited reduced microhardness. XRD showed changes of crystalline structure in the PMTA and OMTA blood group, whereas RMTA did not. SEM analysis revealed more rounded and homogeneous structures and demonstrated a clear lack of acicular or needle-like crystals in the PMTA and OMTA blood groups, while RMTA did not reveal substantial differences between the saline- and blood-stored groups. Blood contamination detrimentally affected the surface microhardnesses of all materials; furthermore, among the 2-mm specimens, blood contamination interfered with normal setting. Therefore, RMTA might be a more suitable choice when blood contamination is unavoidable due to limited depth. Clinical relevance RetroMTA might be a more suitable choice in situations in which blood contamination is unavoidable.

Vocal function in introverts and extraverts during a psychological stress reactivity protocol.

PubMed

Dietrich, Maria; Verdolini Abbott, Katherine

2012-06-01

To examine the proposal that introversion predictably influences extralaryngeal and vocal behavior in vocally healthy individuals compared with individuals with extraversion and whether differences are of a nature that may support a risk hypothesis for primary muscle tension dysphonia. Fifty-four vocally healthy female adults between the ages of 18 and 35 years were divided into 2 groups: introversion (n = 27) and extraversion (n = 27). All participants completed a psychological stress reactivity experiment. Before, during, and after the stressor (public speaking), participants were assessed on extralaryngeal muscle activity (surface electromyography: submental, infrahyoid; control site: tibialis anterior), perceived vocal effort, and vocal acoustics (fundamental frequency and intensity). Participants in the introversion group exhibited significantly greater infrahyoid muscle activity throughout the protocol and during perceived stress than participants in the extraversion group. For both groups, perceived vocal effort significantly increased during stress, and acoustic measures significantly decreased. Infrahyoid muscle activity during the stress phase was significantly correlated with introversion and Voice Handicap Index scores but not with vocal effort scores. The data provided evidence of distinct differences in extralaryngeal behavior between introverts and extraverts. The findings are consistent with the trait theory of voice disorders (Roy & Bless, 2000).

Wear resistance of four types of vacuum-formed retainer materials: a laboratory study.

PubMed

Raja, Taiyub A; Littlewood, Simon J; Munyombwe, Theresa; Bubb, Nigel L

2014-07-01

To investigate the resistance to wear of four different vacuum-formed retainer (VFR) materials: Essix C+, Essix ACE, Duran, and Tru-Tain. Essix C+ is a polypropylene polymer; the other materials are polyethylene co-polymers. The study was undertaken at the Leeds Dental Institute, Leeds, UK, with 26 samples in each group. The specimens were vacuum-formed according to the manufacturers' guidelines, and a custom-made wear-simulation machine was used to conduct the test. Each specimen was subjected to 1000 cycles of the wear simulation, with steatite balls as the antagonist material. The resistance to wear of the VFR materials was evaluated by measuring the maximum wear depth using noncontact, three-dimensional surface profilometry. The wear depth was given in micrometers. The median wear depth was 63.20 µm for the Essix C+ group, 7.88 µm for the Essix ACE group, 9.75 µm for the Duran group, and 12.08 µm for the Tru-Tain group. The Kruskal-Wallis test to compare the four VFR materials detected a statistically significant difference between the groups (P < .001). Comparisons of the groups using the Mann-Whitney U-test demonstrated that the Essix C+ group had significantly greater wear than the other three groups (P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference in median wear depth between the two groups with the least amount of wear-the Essix ACE and Duran groups. Under the standardized conditions of this laboratory study, the three polyethylene co-polymer materials-Essix ACE, Duran, and Tru-Tain-exhibited significantly less wear than the polypropylene material, Essix C+.

Short-term and long-term treatment outcomes with Class III activator

PubMed Central

Ryu, Hyo-kyung; Chong, Hyun-Jeong; An, Ki-Yong

2015-01-01

Objective The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate short-term and long-term skeletodental outcomes of Class III activator treatment. Methods A Class III activator treatment group (AG) comprised of 22 patients (9 boys, 13 girls) was compared with a Class III control group (CG) comprised of 17 patients (6 boys, 11 girls). The total treatment period was divided into three stages; the initial stage (T1), the post-activator treatment or post-mandibular growth peak stage (T2), and the long-term follow-up stage (T3). Cephalometric changes were evaluated statistically via the Mann-Whitney U-test and the Friedman test. Results The AG exhibited significant increases in the SNA angle, ANB angle, Wits appraisal, A point-N perpendicular, Convexity of A point, and proclination of the maxillary incisors, from T1 to T2. In the long-term follow-up (T1-T3), the AG exhibited significantly greater increases in the ANB angle, Wits appraisal, and Convexity of A point than the CG. Conclusions Favorable skeletal outcomes induced during the Class III activator treatment period were generally maintained until the long-term follow-up period of the post-mandibular growth peak stage. PMID:26445717

Enhancing the comprehension of visual metaphors in individuals with intellectual disability with or without down syndrome.

PubMed

Shnitzer-Meirovich, Shlomit; Lifshitz, Hefziba; Mashal, Nira

2018-03-01

This study is the first to investigate the effectiveness of deep and shallow intervention programs in the acquisition of visual metaphor comprehension in individuals with non-specific intellectual disability (NSID; aged 15-59, N = 53) or Down syndrome (DS; aged 15-52, N = 50). The deep intervention program was based on dynamic assessment model for enhancing analogical thinking. The shallow intervention program involves memorizing a metaphorical relationship between pairs of pictures. Visual metaphor comprehension was measured by the construction of a metaphorical connection between pairs of pictures. The results indicated that both etiology groups exhibited poor understanding of visual metaphors before the intervention. A significant improvement was observed in both interventions and both etiology groups, with greater improvement among individuals who underwent the deep processing. Moreover, the latter procedure led to greater generalization ability. The results also indicated that vocabulary contributed significantly to understanding unstudied metaphors and that participants with poorer linguistic abilities exhibited greater improvement in their metaphorical thinking. Thus, individuals with ID with or without DS are able to recruit the higher-order cognitive abilities required for visual metaphor comprehension. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Group II p21-activated kinases as therapeutic targets in gastrointestinal cancer.

PubMed

Shao, Yang-Guang; Ning, Ke; Li, Feng

2016-01-21

P21-activated kinases (PAKs) are central players in various oncogenic signaling pathways. The six PAK family members are classified into group I (PAK1-3) and group II (PAK4-6). Focus is currently shifting from group I PAKs to group II PAKs. Group II PAKs play important roles in many fundamental cellular processes, some of which have particular significance in the development and progression of cancer. Because of their important functions, group II PAKs have become popular potential drug target candidates. However, few group II PAKs inhibitors have been reported, and most do not exhibit satisfactory kinase selectivity and "drug-like" properties. Isoform- and kinase-selective PAK inhibitors remain to be developed. This review describes the biological activities of group II PAKs, the importance of group II PAKs in the development and progression of gastrointestinal cancer, and small-molecule inhibitors of group II PAKs for the treatment of cancer.

Crown-root morphology of lower incisors in patients with class III malocclusion.

PubMed

Wang, Bo; Shen, Guofang; Fang, Bing; Zhang, Li

2012-07-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the crown-root morphology of lower incisors in patients with class III malocclusion using cone-beam computed tomography. Cone-beam computed tomography images were analyzed from 53 adult class I patients (group 1), 37 preadolescent class III patients (group 2), and 66 adult class III patients (group 3) comprising 3 divisions (divisions 1, 2, and 3 corresponded to mild, moderate, and severe class III malocclusions). The size and crown-root angulations of lower incisors in different groups and divisions were statistically appraised with group 1 used as the control group. No significant differences were found for the size of lower incisors among different groups and divisions (P > 0.05). Compared with group 1, the crown-root angulations of lower incisors in groups 2 and 3 were significantly larger (P < 0.01), and among 3 divisions, the lower incisors of division 3 rather than divisions 2 and 3 exhibited larger crown-root angulations (P < 0.01). Attention should be paid to the enlarged crown-root angulations of lower incisors in class III patients during orthodontic and orthognathic treatment, especially in severe ones.

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning on peri-hemorrhagic focal edema and aquaporin-4 expression.

PubMed

Fang, Jinyong; Li, Hongling; Li, Guanglei; Wang, Lichun

2015-08-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning (HBO-PC) on peri-hemorrhagic focal edema and aquaporin-4 (AQP-4) expression in an experimental intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) rat model. Sixty-six Sprague Dawley® rats were divided into three groups: The sham-surgery group (SHG; n=6); the control group (A-ICH; n=30), in which the rats were injected with autologous blood; and the experimental HBO-PC group (P-HBO; n=30). The rats underwent brain edema and AQP-4 detection at 5 postoperative time-points (24, 48 and 72 h and 5 and 7 days). The water content in the brain tissues of the A-ICH animals was higher than that in the brain tissues of the SHG rats at each time-point (P<0.05), and the edema in the P-HBO was significantly more severe 24 and 48 h postoperatively than that at 7 days postoperatively (P<0.05). The difference between the P-HBO and A-ICH was significant at 48 and 72 h postoperatively (P<0.05). AQP-4 was expressed in the post-hemorrhagic rat brains of all groups; the SHG animals exhibited low expression, while the A-ICH animals exhibited an increased expression 24 h postoperatively. In the A-ICH, expression peaked at 48 h postoperatively and began to decrease gradually after 72 h. At the 7-day time-point, the expression level in the A-ICH was closer to but still higher than that of the SHG animals (P<0.05). The differences between the P-HBO and A-ICH animals at the postoperative 24-h, 48-h and 7-day time-points were statistically significant (P<0.05). In conclusion, HBO-PC may downregulate AQP-4 expression to reduce the intracerebral edema, thus strengthening tolerance to ICH and protecting the nerves.

Articulatory-acoustic vowel space: application to clear speech in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Whitfield, Jason A; Goberman, Alexander M

2014-01-01

Individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) often exhibit decreased range of movement secondary to the disease process, which has been shown to affect articulatory movements. A number of investigations have failed to find statistically significant differences between control and disordered groups, and between speaking conditions, using traditional vowel space area measures. The purpose of the current investigation was to evaluate both between-group (PD versus control) and within-group (habitual versus clear) differences in articulatory function using a novel vowel space measure, the articulatory-acoustic vowel space (AAVS). The novel AAVS is calculated from continuously sampled formant trajectories of connected speech. In the current study, habitual and clear speech samples from twelve individuals with PD along with habitual control speech samples from ten neurologically healthy adults were collected and acoustically analyzed. In addition, a group of listeners completed perceptual rating of speech clarity for all samples. Individuals with PD were perceived to exhibit decreased speech clarity compared to controls. Similarly, the novel AAVS measure was significantly lower in individuals with PD. In addition, the AAVS measure significantly tracked changes between the habitual and clear conditions that were confirmed by perceptual ratings. In the current study, the novel AAVS measure is shown to be sensitive to disease-related group differences and within-person changes in articulatory function of individuals with PD. Additionally, these data confirm that individuals with PD can modulate the speech motor system to increase articulatory range of motion and speech clarity when given a simple prompt. The reader will be able to (i) describe articulatory behavior observed in the speech of individuals with Parkinson disease; (ii) describe traditional measures of vowel space area and how they relate to articulation; (iii) describe a novel measure of vowel space, the articulatory-acoustic vowel space and its relationship to articulation and the perception of speech clarity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparative characteristics of quantitative indexes for 18F-FDG uptake and metabolic volume in sequentially obtained PET/MRI and PET/CT.

PubMed

Lee, Soo Jin; Paeng, Jin Chul; Goo, Jin Mo; Lee, Jeong Min; Cheon, Gi Jeong; Lee, Dong Soo; Chung, June-Key; Kang, Keon Wook

2017-04-01

The purpose of this study was to compare quantitative indexes for fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose uptake and metabolic volume between PET/MRI and PET/CT. Sixty-six patients with solid tumors (32 with lung cancer and 34 with pancreatic cancer) who underwent sequential fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose PET/MRI and PET/CT were retrospectively enrolled. On PET images, maximum and peak standardized uptake values (SUVmax and SUVpeak, respectively), and maximum tumor-to-liver ratio (TLRmax) were measured. Metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total-lesion glycolysis (TLG) with margin thresholds of 50% SUVmax and SUV 2.5 (MTV50%, MTV2.5; TLG50%, TLG2.5, respectively) were compared between PET/MRI and PET/CT, with patients classified into two groups using imaging protocol (the PET/MRI-first and PET/CT-first groups). There were significant correlations of all tested indexes between PET/MRI and PET/CT (r=0.867-0.987, P<0.001). SUVmax and SUVpeak were lower on PET/MRI regardless of imaging protocol (P<0.001 in the PET/MRI-first group). In contrast, TLRmax exhibited reverse results between the PET/MRI-first and PET/CT-first groups. MTV50% and TLG values varied between PET/MRI and PET/CT, as well as between the PET/MRI-first and PET/CT-first groups. However, MTV2.5 was relatively robust against imaging protocol and modality. There are significant correlations of the quantitative indexes between PET/MRI and PET/CT. However, uptake indexes of SUVmax and SUVpeak are lower on PET/MRI than on PET/CT, and volumetric indexes of MTV50% and TLG values also exhibited significant differences. It may be suggested that TLRmax and MTV2.5 are relatively more appropriate indexes than others when PET/MRI and PET/CT are used interchangeably.

Occupational competence and its relationship to emotional health in injured workers in return to work programs: a Malaysian study.

PubMed

Murad, Mohd Suleiman; O'brien, Lisa; Farnworth, Louise; Chien, Chi-Wen

2013-03-01

Workers with musculoskeletal disorders undertaking Malaysia's return to work (RTW) programmes may experience challenges in occupational competence (OC) and negative emotional states (NES). This study aimed to measure and examines the OC and NES of the workers by comparing specific comparison groups and groups of different phases. A total of 76 participants were recruited from a national RTW programme and categorized into three groups based on different RTW phases: off-work (n = 22), re-entry (n = 31), and maintenance (n = 23). Self-report questionnaires consisted of the Occupational Self Assessment version 2.2 and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21. Results showed that injured workers exhibited significantly lower OC in comparison with an international group with various disabilities. In contrast, there was significantly higher NES when compared with Malaysia's general population. Significant differences in OC and NES were also found between workers in the three RTW phases. In particular, OC and NES in the off-work and re-entry phases were significantly lower (OC) and higher (NES) than in the maintenance phase. Furthermore, there was a moderate, negative correlation between OC and NES in the off-work and re-entry phase groups. This indicated that low levels of perceived OC were associated with higher levels of NES.

Behavioral and Neural Sustained Attention Deficits in Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

PubMed

Pagliaccio, David; Wiggins, Jillian Lee; Adleman, Nancy E; Curhan, Alexa; Zhang, Susan; Towbin, Kenneth E; Brotman, Melissa A; Pine, Daniel S; Leibenluft, Ellen

2017-05-01

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), characterized by severe irritability, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are highly comorbid. This is the first study to characterize neural and behavioral similarities and differences in attentional functioning across these disorders. Twenty-seven healthy volunteers, 31 patients with DMDD, and 25 patients with ADHD (8 to 18 years old) completed a functional magnetic resonance imaging attention task. Group differences in intra-subject variability in reaction time (RT) were examined. The present functional magnetic resonance imaging analytic approach precisely quantified trial-wise associations between RT and brain activity. Group differences manifested in the relation between RT and brain activity (all regions: p < .01, F > 2.54, partial eta-squared [η p 2 ] > 0.06). Patients with DMDD showed specific alterations in the right paracentral lobule, superior parietal lobule, fusiform gyrus, and cerebellar culmen. In contrast, patients with DMDD and those with ADHD exhibited blunted compensatory increases in activity on long RT trials. In addition, youth with DMDD exhibited increased activity in the postcentral gyrus, medial frontal gyrus, and cerebellar tonsil and declive (all regions: p < .05, F > 2.46, η p 2 > 0.06). Groups in the imaging sample did not differ significantly in intra-subject variability in RT (F 2,79  = 2.664, p = .076, η p 2  = 0.063), although intra-subject variability in RT was significantly increased in youth with DMDD and ADHD when including those not meeting strict motion and accuracy criteria for imaging analysis (F 2,96  = 4.283, p = .017, η p 2  = 0.083). Patients with DMDD exhibited specific alterations in the relation between pre-stimulus brain activity and RT. Patients with DMDD and those with ADHD exhibited similar blunting of compensatory neural activity in frontal, parietal, and other regions. In addition, patients with DMDD showed increased RT variability compared with healthy youth. This work is the first to identify common and unique behavioral and neural signatures of DMDD and ADHD. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Risky decision making and the anterior cingulate cortex in abstinent drug abusers and nonusers.

PubMed

Fishbein, Diana H; Eldreth, Diana L; Hyde, Christopher; Matochik, John A; London, Edythe D; Contoreggi, Carlo; Kurian, Varughese; Kimes, Alane S; Breeden, Andrew; Grant, Steven

2005-04-01

Risky decision making is a hallmark behavioral phenotype of drug abuse; thus, an understanding of its biological bases may inform efforts to develop therapies for addictive disorders. A neurocognitive task that measures this function (Rogers Decision-Making Task; RDMT) was paired with measures of regional cerebral perfusion to identify brain regions that may underlie deficits in risky decision making in drug abusers. Subjects were abstinent drug abusers (> or =3 months) and healthy controls who underwent positron emission tomography scans with H(2)(15)O. Drug abusers showed greater risk taking and heightened sensitivity to rewards than control subjects. Both drug abusers and controls exhibited significant activations in a widespread network of brain regions, primarily in the frontal cortex, previously implicated in decision-making tasks. The only significant group difference in brain activation, however, was found in the left pregenual anterior cingulate cortex, with drug abusers exhibiting less task-related activation than control subjects. There were no significant correlations between neural activity and task performance within the control group. In the drug abuse group, on the other hand, increased risky choices on the RDMT negatively correlated with activation in the right hippocampus, left anterior cingulate gyrus, left medial orbitofrontal cortex, and left parietal lobule, and positively correlated with activation in the right insula. Drug abuse severity was related positively to right medial orbitofrontal activity. Attenuated activation of the pregenual ACC in the drug abusers relative to the controls during performance on the RDMT may underlie the abusers' tendency to choose risky outcomes.

Eye movements reveal sexually dimorphic deficits in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

PubMed Central

Paolozza, Angelina; Munn, Rebecca; Munoz, Douglas P.; Reynolds, James N.

2015-01-01

Background: We examined the accuracy and characteristics of saccadic eye movements in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) compared with typically developing control children. Previous studies have found that children with FASD produce saccades that are quantifiably different from controls. Additionally, animal studies have found sex-based differences for behavioral effects after prenatal alcohol exposure. Therefore, we hypothesized that eye movement measures will show sexually dimorphic results. Methods: Children (aged 5–18 years) with FASD (n = 71) and typically developing controls (n = 113) performed a visually-guided saccade task. Saccade metrics and behavior were analyzed for sex and group differences. Results: Female control participants had greater amplitude saccades than control males or females with FASD. Accuracy was significantly poorer in the FASD group, especially in males, which introduced significantly greater variability in the data. Therefore, we conducted additional analyses including only those trials in which the first saccade successfully reached the target within a ± 1° window. In this restricted amplitude dataset, the females with FASD made saccades with significantly lower velocity and longer duration, whereas the males with FASD did not differ from the control group. Additionally, the mean and peak deceleration were selectively decreased in the females with FASD. Conclusions: These data support the hypothesis that children with FASD exhibit specific deficits in eye movement control and sensory-motor integration associated with cerebellar and/or brain stem circuits. Moreover, prenatal alcohol exposure may have a sexually dimorphic impact on eye movement metrics, with males and females exhibiting differential patterns of deficit. PMID:25814922

Grapefruit Derived Flavonoid Naringin Improves Ketoacidosis and Lipid Peroxidation in Type 1 Diabetes Rat Model.

PubMed

Murunga, Alfred N; Miruka, David O; Driver, Christine; Nkomo, Fezile S; Cobongela, Snazo Z Z; Owira, Peter M O

2016-01-01

Hypoglycemic effects of grapefruit juice are well known but the effects of naringin, its main flavonoid on glucose intolerance and metabolic complications in type 1 diabetes are not known. To investigate the effects of naringin on glucose intolerance, oxidative stress and ketonemia in type 1 diabetic rats. Sprague-Dawley rats divided into 5 groups (n = 7) were orally treated daily with 3.0 ml/kg body weight (BW)/day of distilled water (group 1) or 50 mg/kg BW of naringin (groups 2 and 4, respectively). Groups 3, 4 and 5 were given a single intra-peritoneal injection of 60 mg/kg BW of streptozotocin to induce diabetes. Group 3 was further treated with subcutaneous insulin (4.0 IU/kg BW) twice daily, respectively. Stretozotocin (STZ) only-treated groups exhibited hyperglycemia, polydipsia, polyuria, weight loss, glucose intolerance, low fasting plasma insulin and reduced hepatic glycogen content compared to the control group. Furthermore they had significantly elevated Malondialdehyde (MDA), acetoacetate, β-hydroxybutyrate, anion gap and significantly reduced blood pH and plasma bicarbonate compared to the control group. Naringin treatment significantly improved Fasting Plasma Insulin (FPI), hepatic glycogen content, malondialdehyde, β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, bicarbonate, blood pH and anion gap but not Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) compared to the STZ only-treated group. Naringin is not hypoglycemic but ameliorates ketoacidosis and oxidative stress. Naringin supplements could therefore mitigate complications of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Intestinal flora imbalance promotes alcohol-induced liver fibrosis by the TGFβ/smad signaling pathway in mice.

PubMed

Zhang, Dong; Hao, Xiuxian; Xu, Lili; Cui, Jing; Xue, Li; Tian, Zibin

2017-10-01

Intestinal flora performs a crucial role in human health and its imbalance may cause numerous pathological changes. The liver can also affect the intestinal function through bile secretion via the enterohepatic cycle. The pathophysiological association between the gut and the liver is described as the gut-liver axis. The present study investigated the role of intestinal flora in alcohol-induced liver fibrosis. A total of 36 C57 mice were randomly and equally divided into 3 different dietary regimes: Group I (alcohol injury; received alcohol); group II (alcohol injury with flora imbalance; received alcohol plus lincomycin hydrochloride) and group III (alcohol injury with corrected flora imbalance; received alcohol, lincomycin hydrochloride and extra probiotics). The present study then investigated several indicators of liver damage. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in mice serum were studied. Masson staining and Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double staining was also performed, and the expression of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (smad) 3 and smad4 proteins in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) of the mice was examined using western blot analysis. The levels of serum ALP, AST and ALT were the highest in group II mice, and all 3 levels decreased in group III mice compared with those from group II. The degree of liver fibrosis was aggravated in group II mice compared with group I mice. The apoptosis of HSCs was significantly inhibited in group II mice, but was increased in group III mice. The HSCs in group II mice exhibited higher expression of smad3 and smad4, whilst group III mice (with corrected intestinal flora imbalance) exhibited downregulated expression of smad3 and smad4. The present data indicates that the intestinal flora perform a significant role in maintaining liver homeostasis. Furthermore, an imbalance of intestinal flora can exacerbate alcohol-induced liver fibrosis in mice through the transforming growth factor β/SMA/MAD homology signaling pathway, which subsequently leads to more serious liver damage.

Improvements in musculoskeletal health and computing behaviors: Effects of a macroergonomics office workplace and training intervention.

PubMed

Robertson, Michelle M; Huang, Yueng Hsiang; Lee, Jin

2017-07-01

Computer use and its association with musculoskeletal and visual symptoms is an escalating concern. Organizations are shifting to a more proactive injury prevention perspective. Accordingly, a macroergonomics intervention consisting of flexible workplace design and office ergonomics training was designed to examine the effects on worker's computing behaviors, postures, and musculoskeletal discomfort, and their relationship to psychosocial factors. Participants were assigned to either group: 1) no-intervention control 2) flexible Workplace-only (WP-only), and 3) flexible Workplace + Training (WP+T). Observational findings indicate both intervention groups experienced positive, significant changes in improved workstation arrangements and computing postures, with the WP+T intervention group exhibiting a higher, significant change of behavioral translation. Also, significant, positive relationships between observed postures and musculoskeletal discomfort/pain were found. The intervention effect was stronger when management was responsive to workers' ergonomics needs. This study suggests that a macroergonomics intervention can produce beneficial effects for office and computer workers and organizations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Health status of people with work-related musculoskeletal disorders in return to work programs: a Malaysian study.

PubMed

Murad, Mohd Suleiman; O'Brien, Lisa; Farnworth, Louise; Chien, Chi-Wen

2013-07-01

This study examined the health status of injured workers with musculoskeletal disorders enrolled in the Malaysian Return to Work (RTW) program. The 102 participants were categorized into three RTW groups: Off-work (n = 30, 29.4%), Re-entry (n = 44, 43.1%), and Maintenance (n = 28, 27.5%). Overall health status, as measured by the SF-36 version 2, of the workers exhibited below average compared to the internationally established normative population, with their physical health component summary rated lower than mental health. Across the different groups, significant differences were found in role-physical, vitality, bodily pain, general health, and mental health. However, the mean values of these variables were higher in the Maintenance group and were found significant. The current health status of injured workers at Off-work and Re-entry phases was significantly low and warranted to be improved by involving other health professionals such as occupational therapists, ergonomists, and psychologists.

Effects of the Self-Regulation Empowerment Program (SREP) on middle school students' strategic skills, self-efficacy, and mathematics achievement.

PubMed

Cleary, Timothy J; Velardi, Brittany; Schnaidman, Bracha

2017-10-01

The current study examined the effectiveness of an applied self-regulated learning intervention (Self-Regulation Empowerment Program (SREP)) relative to an existing, school-based remedial mathematics intervention for improving the motivation, strategic skills, and mathematics achievement of academically at-risk middle school students. Although significant group differences in student self-regulated learning (SRL) were not observed when using self-report questionnaires, medium to large and statistically significant group differences were observed across several contextualized, situation-specific measures of strategic and regulatory thinking. The SREP group also exhibited a statistically significant and more positive trend in achievement scores over two years in middle school relative to the comparison condition. Finally, SREP students and coaches reported SREP to be a socially-valid intervention, in terms of acceptability and importance. The importance of this study and critical areas for future research are highlighted and discussed. Copyright © 2017 Society for the Study of School Psychology. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of Erabu sea snake (Laticauda semifasciata) lipids on the swimming endurance of mice.

PubMed

Zhang, Guihua; Higuchi, Tomoyuki; Shirai, Nobuya; Suzuki, Hiramitsu; Shimizu, Eiji

2007-01-01

This study was designed to investigate the effect of Erabu sea snake (Laticauda semifasciata) lipids on the swimming endurance of mice. Twelve-week-old male Crlj: CD-1 (ICR) mice were fed one of three experimental diets containing 6% lard, fish oil or sea snake lipids for 16 weeks. Swimming exercise was conducted in an acrylic plastic tank filled with 25 cm of water maintained at 23 degrees C. Every 4 weeks, the mice were made to perform swimming exercises with loads attached to their tails, corresponding to approximately 1 or 2% of their body weights. The group fed the sea snake lipid diet exhibited significantly improved swimming endurance compared with the lard diet group (p < 0.05); however, this result was not observed in the fish oil diet group. In the sea snake lipid diet group, plasma and muscle lactates were significantly lower, and plasma glucose and muscle glycogen were significantly higher than in the lard diet group (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the intake of sea snake lipids enhanced the swimming endurance of the mice by delaying the accumulation of lactate during swimming exercise. Copyright 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Cognitive performance and morning levels of salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase in children reporting high vs. low daily stress perception.

PubMed

Maldonado, Enrique F; Fernandez, Francisco J; Trianes, M Victoria; Wesnes, Keith; Petrini, Orlando; Zangara, Andrea; Enguix, Alfredo; Ambrosetti, Lara

2008-05-01

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of daily stress perception on cognitive performance and morning basal salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase levels in healthy children aged 9-12. Participants were classified by whether they had low daily perceived stress (LPS, n = 27) or a high daily perceived stress (HPS, n = 26) using the Children Daily Stress Inventory (CDSI). Salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase were measured at awakening and 30 minutes later. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Cognitive Drug Research assessment system. The HPS group exhibited significantly poorer scores on speed of memory (p < .05) and continuity of attention (p < .05) relative to the LPS group. The HPS group also showed significantly lower morning cortisol levels at awakening and at +30 minutes measures in comparison with the LPS group (p < .05), and mean morning cortisol levels were negatively correlated with speed of memory (p < .05) in the 53 participants. No significant differences were observed between both groups in alpha-amylase levels. These findings suggest that daily perceived stress in children may impoverish cognitive performance via its modulating effects on the HPA axis activity.

Naringin improves random skin flap survival in rats.

PubMed

Cheng, Liang; Chen, Tingxiang; Tu, Qiming; Li, Hang; Feng, Zhenghua; Li, Zhijie; Lin, Dingsheng

2017-11-07

Random-pattern flap transfer is commonly used to treat soft-tissue defects. However, flap necrosis remains a serious problem. Naringin accelerates angiogenesis by activating the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In the present study, we investigated whether naringin improves the survival of random skin flaps. Compared with controls, the naringin-treated groups exhibited significantly larger mean areas of flap survival, significantly increased SOD activity and VEGF expression, and significantly reduced MDA level. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining revealed that naringin promoted angiogenesis and inhibited inflammation. "McFarlane flap" models were established in 90 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats divided into three groups: a 40 mg/kg control group (0.5 % sodium carboxymethylcellulose), a 40 mg/kg naringin-treated group, and an 80 mg/kg naringin-treated group. The extent of necrosis was measured 7 days later, and tissue samples were subjected to histological analysis. Angiogenesis was evaluated via lead oxide-gelatin angiography, immunohistochemistry, and laser Doppler imaging. Inflammation was evaluated by measurement of serum TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α) and IL-6 (interleukin-6) levels. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Naringin improved random skin flap survival.

Effect of aqueous extracts of alligator pear seed (Persea americana mill) on blood glucose and histopathology of pancreas in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

PubMed

Edem, Do; Ekanem, Is; Ebong, Pe

2009-07-01

Effects of aqueous extract of alligator pear seed on normal and alloxan-induced diabetic rats were investigated in 6 groups of rats (5 rats per group). Test groups were made diabetic with intra-peritoneal injection of alloxan and treated with 300 mg and 600 mg/kg body weight of alligator pear seed extract. Two non-diabetic groups were also administered with 300 mg and 600 mg/kg body weight extract. The levels of blood glucose were examined in all 6 experimental groups. In diabetic rats, blood glucose levels were significantly reduced (p<0.05) by 73.26-78.24% on consumption of the extracts, with greater effect exhibited by the 600 mg/kg extract. In normal rats, blood glucose levels were significantly reduced (p<0.05) by 34.68-38.9% on consumption of the seed extract. Histological studies showed a degenerative effect on the pancreatic islet cells of diabetic rats. The result suggested restorative (protective) effect of the extract on pancreatic islet cells. Administration of aqueous extract of alligator pear seed may contribute significantly to the reduction of blood glucose levels and can be useful in the treatment of diabetes.

The mechanism underlying dibutyl phthalate induced shortened anogenital distance and hypospadias in rats.

PubMed

Li, Ning; Chen, Xuyong; Zhou, Xuefeng; Zhang, Wen; Yuan, Jiyan; Feng, Jiexiong

2015-12-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) induced hypospadias and shortened anogenital distance (AGD). AGD, hypospadias, and cryptorchidism incidence was observed in male offspring of DBP treated pregnant Wistar rats. Testicular development and testosterone levels of normal and DBP-treated rat embryos were compared. Male offspring of 300mg and 900mg DBP-treated pregnant Wistar rats exhibited shortened average AGD compared with the control group. A 22.7% hypospadias incidence was observed in the 300mg group, but no offspring with cryptorchidism were identified. In the 900mg group, hypospadias and cryptorchidism incidence reached 43.5% and 17.4%, respectively. Between E15.5 and E17.5, the 300mg group exhibited delayed testicular development and testosterone secretion. However, testicular development and testosterone secretion subsequently recovered. The 300mg treated and control groups had similar measures after E19.5. Contrastingly, testicular development and testosterone secretion were significantly diminished throughout development in the 900mg group. Exogenous testosterone partially counteracted DBP-induced changes in the reproductive organs of male offspring of DBP-treated rats. High-dose DBP exposure may induce testicular dysgenesis in rat embryos. Additionally, low-dose DBP may delay testicular development and testosterone secretion during urethral development. This disruption may result in hypospadias. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Do serum BDNF levels vary in self-harm behavior among adolescents and are they correlated with traumatic experiences?

PubMed

Kavurma, Canem; Varol Tas, Fatma; Serim Demirgoren, Burcu; Demirci, Ferhat; Akan, Pınar; Eyuboglu, Damla; Guvenir, Taner

2017-12-01

The aim of this study was to compare serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels between adolescents that harm themselves, those that receive psychiatric treatment but do not harm themselves, healthy adolescents, and childhood traumas and to investigate the relationship between traumatic experiences and serum BDNF levels. The cases were divided into two groups of 40 adolescents exhibiting self-harm behavior (self-harm/diagnosed group) and 30 adolescents receiving psychiatric treatment but not exhibiting self-harm behaviors (non self-harm/diagnosed group). The control group (healthy control group) consisted of 35 healthy adolescents with no psychiatric disorders or self-harm behaviors. The adolescents were asked to fill in the Inventory of Statements About Self Injury (ISAS) and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). For BDNF measurement, blood samples were taken from the cases and controls. The serum BDNF level of self-harming adolescents who used the self-cutting method was significantly lower than that of other groups, and serum BDNF levels decreased with the increase in the emotional neglect and abuse severity of self-harming adolescents during childhood. In our study, serum BDNF levels decreased with the increase in emotional abuse in self-harming adolescents. This finding may indicate that neuroplasticity can be affected by a negative emotional environment during the early period. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Non-Ischemic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction Is Associated With Altered Intestinal Microbiota.

PubMed

Katsimichas, Themistoklis; Ohtani, Tomohito; Motooka, Daisuke; Tsukamoto, Yasumasa; Kioka, Hidetaka; Nakamoto, Kei; Konishi, Shozo; Chimura, Misato; Sengoku, Kaoruko; Miyawaki, Hiroshi; Sakaguchi, Taiki; Okumura, Ryu; Theofilis, Konstantinos; Iida, Tetsuya; Takeda, Kiyoshi; Nakamura, Shota; Sakata, Yasushi

2018-05-25

Research suggests that heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is a state of systemic inflammation that may be triggered by microbial products passing into the bloodstream through a compromised intestinal barrier. However, whether the intestinal microbiota exhibits dysbiosis in HFrEF patients is largely unknown.Methods and Results:Twenty eight non-ischemic HFrEF patients and 19 healthy controls were assessed by 16S rRNA analysis of bacterial DNA extracted from stool samples. After processing of sequencing data, bacteria were taxonomically classified, diversity indices were used to examine microbial ecology, and relative abundances of common core genera were compared between groups. Furthermore, we predicted gene carriage for bacterial metabolic pathways and inferred microbial interaction networks on multiple taxonomic levels.Bacterial communities of both groups were dominated by the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla. The most abundant genus in both groups wasBacteroides. Although α diversity did not differ between groups, ordination by β diversity metrics revealed a separation of the groups across components of variation.StreptococcusandVeillonellawere enriched in the common core microbiota of patients, whileSMB53was depleted. Gene families in amino acid, carbohydrate, vitamin, and xenobiotic metabolism showed significant differences between groups. Interaction networks revealed a higher degree of correlations between bacteria in patients. Non-ischemic HFrEF patients exhibited multidimensional differences in intestinal microbial communities compared with healthy subjects.

Characterization of Ni-Cr alloys using different casting techniques and molds.

PubMed

Chen, Wen-Cheng; Teng, Fu-Yuan; Hung, Chun-Cheng

2014-02-01

This study differentiated the mechanical properties of nickel-chromium (Ni-Cr) alloys under various casting techniques (different casting molds and casting atmospheres). These techniques were sampled by a sand mold using a centrifugal machine in ambient air (group I) and electromagnetic induction in an automatic argon castimatic casting machine (group II). The specimen casting used a graphite mold by a castimatic casting machine (group III). The characteristics of the Ni-Cr alloys, yield and ultimate tensile strength, bending modulus, microhardness, diffraction phase, grindability, ability to spring back, as well as ground microstructure and pattern under different casting conditions were evaluated. The group III specimens exhibited the highest values in terms of strength, modulus, hardness, and grindability at a grind rate of 500 rpm. Moreover, group III alloys exhibited smaller grain sizes, higher ability to spring back, and greater ductility than those casted by sand investment (groups I and II). The main factor, "casting mold," significantly influenced all mechanical properties. The graphite mold casting of the Ni-Cr dental alloys in a controlled atmosphere argon casting system provided an excellent combination of high mechanical properties and good ability to spring back, and preserved the ductile properties for application in Ni-Cr porcelain-fused system. The results can offer recommendations to assist a prosthetic technician in selecting the appropriate casting techniques to obtain the desired alloy properties. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Association between changes in visual acuity and vision-related quality of life in Japanese patients with low vision.

PubMed

Yanagisawa, Mieko; Kato, Satoshi; Kunimatsu, Shiho; Kobayashi, Megumi; Ochiai, Makiko

2011-01-01

To investigate the association between vision-related quality of life (VRQOL) and changes in visual acuity (VA). We examined the VA in 100 patients for > 1 year and evaluated the degree of its impact on VRQOL using the National Eye Institute Visual Function (VF) Questionnaire (VFQ-25; Japanese version). Before determining VFQ-25, we monitored the changes in VA in these patients for 1 year and classified them into the following two groups depending on VA changes. Patients exhibiting a decline of > 3 steps in VA, as assessed by the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution scale, were placed in the 'decline' group (47.0%) and patients exhibiting no change in VA were placed in the 'no change' group (53.0%). We compared the VFQ-25 scores between both groups in all patients with glaucoma (GLA) and macular degeneration (MD). The total score of the decline was 34.9 ± 13.6 and that of the no change group was 44.6 ± 13.9: the difference in the scores between both groups was statistically significant (p = 0.006). Similar results were obtained for patients with GLA and MD (p = 0.007 and 0.003, respectively). VRQOL differed between patients with constant VA and those with reduced VA, even though VA values were equal at a certain time point. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Effects of dietary phospholipid level in cobia (Rachycentron canadum) larvae: growth, survival, plasma lipids and enzymes of lipid metabolism.

PubMed

Niu, J; Liu, Y J; Tian, L X; Mai, K S; Yang, H J; Ye, C X; Zhu, Y

2008-03-01

A study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary phospholipid (PL) levels in cobia (Rachycentron canadum) larvae with regard to growth, survival, plasma lipids and enzymes of lipid metabolism. Fish with an average weight of 0.4 g were fed diets containing four levels of PL (0, 20, 40 and 80 g kg(-1)dry matter: purity 97%) for 42 days. Final body weight (FBW), weight gain (WG) and survival ratio were highest in the 8% PL diet group and mortality was highest in PL-free diet group. We examined the activities of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic lipase (HL) in liver, lecithin-cholesterolacyltransferase (LCAT) in plasma as well as plasma lipids and lipoprotein. LCAT activity showed a decrease of more than two-fold in PL-supplemented diet groups compared with the PL-free diet group. HL activity was highest in the 8% PL diet group and the other three groups showed no difference. LPL activity was significantly higher in the PL-supplemented diet groups than in the PL-free diet group. The dietary intervention significantly increased plasma phospholipids and total cholesterol (TC) levels, and the higher free cholesterol (FC) level contributed to the TC level. However, the fish fed PL exhibited a significantly decreased plasma triglyceride (TG) level. The lipoprotein fractions were also affected significantly by the PL. The PL-supplemented diet groups had significantly higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL) compared with the PL-free diet group, but showed a marked decrease in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). The results suggested that PL could modify plasma lipoprotein metabolism and lipid profile, and that the optimal dietary PL level may well exceed 80 g kg(-1) for cobia larvae according to growth and survival.

Effectiveness of music therapy as an aid to neurorestoration of children with severe neurological disorders

PubMed Central

Bringas, Maria L.; Zaldivar, Marilyn; Rojas, Pedro A.; Martinez-Montes, Karelia; Chongo, Dora M.; Ortega, Maria A.; Galvizu, Reynaldo; Perez, Alba E.; Morales, Lilia M.; Maragoto, Carlos; Vera, Hector; Galan, Lidice; Besson, Mireille; Valdes-Sosa, Pedro A.

2015-01-01

This study was a two-armed parallel group design aimed at testing real world effectiveness of a music therapy (MT) intervention for children with severe neurological disorders. The control group received only the standard neurorestoration program and the experimental group received an additional MT “Auditory Attention plus Communication protocol” just before the usual occupational and speech therapy. Multivariate Item Response Theory (MIRT) identified a neuropsychological status-latent variable manifested in all children and which exhibited highly significant changes only in the experimental group. Changes in brain plasticity also occurred in the experimental group, as evidenced using a Mismatch Event Related paradigm which revealed significant post intervention positive responses in the latency range between 308 and 400 ms in frontal regions. LORETA EEG source analysis identified prefrontal and midcingulate regions as differentially activated by the MT in the experimental group. Taken together, our results showing improved attention and communication as well as changes in brain plasticity in children with severe neurological impairments, confirm the importance of MT for the rehabilitation of patients across a wide range of dysfunctions. PMID:26582974

Effect of the use of combination uridine triphosphate, cytidine monophosphate, and hydroxycobalamin on the recovery of neurosensory disturbance after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy: a randomized, double-blind trial.

PubMed

Vieira, C L; Vasconcelos, B C do E; Leão, J C; Laureano Filho, J R

2016-02-01

The change in neurosensory lesions that develop after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) was explored, and the influence of the application of combination uridine triphosphate (UTP), cytidine monophosphate (CMP), and hydroxycobalamin (vitamin B12) on patient outcomes was assessed. This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial. The study sample comprised 12 patients, each evaluated on both sides (thus 24 sides). All patients fulfilled defined selection criteria. Changes in the lesions were measured both subjectively and objectively. The sample was divided into two patient groups: an experimental group receiving medication and a control group receiving placebo. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Lesions in both groups improved and no statistically significant difference between the groups was observed at any time. 'Severe' injuries in the experimental group were more likely to exhibit a significant improvement after 6 months. Based on the results of the present study, it is concluded that the combination UTP, CMP, and hydroxycobalamin did not influence recovery from neurosensory disorders. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Differences between health and ethical vegetarians. Strength of conviction, nutrition knowledge, dietary restriction, and duration of adherence.

PubMed

Hoffman, Sarah R; Stallings, Sarah F; Bessinger, Raymond C; Brooks, Gary T

2013-06-01

Little research has been published concerning the differences between health oriented and ethically oriented vegetarians. The present study compared differences in conviction, nutrition knowledge, dietary restriction, and duration of adherence to vegetarianism between the two groups. Subjects completed an online survey and were grouped by original reason for becoming vegetarian (n=292, 58 health, 234 ethical), and current reason for remaining vegetarian (n=281, 49 health, 232 ethical). Whether grouped by current or original motivation, ethical vegetarians scored higher on the conviction instrument than health vegetarians and exhibited somewhat greater dietary restriction (significant when grouped by current motivation) and had been vegetarian for longer (significant when grouped by original motivation). Nutrition knowledge did not differ between the two groups. The results suggest that ethical vegetarians could experience stronger feelings of conviction and consume fewer animal products than health vegetarians, and may remain vegetarian longer. More research is necessary to understand how vegetarians' eating behaviors are influenced by their motivational profiles. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cardioprotective Effects of Astragalin against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Isolated Rat Heart.

PubMed

Qu, Daoxu; Han, Jichun; Ren, Huanhuan; Yang, Wenxiao; Zhang, Xinjie; Zheng, Qiusheng; Wang, Dong

2016-01-01

This study aims to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of astragalin against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in isolated rat heart. The cardioprotective effects of astragalin on myocardial I/R injury were investigated on Langendorff apparatus. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. The results showed that astragalin pretreatment improved myocardial function. Compared with I/R group, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) activities in coronary flow decreased in astragalin pretreatment groups, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio significantly increased. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) decreased in astragalin-treated groups. The infarct size (IS) and apoptosis rate in hearts from astragalin-treated groups were lower than those in hearts from the I/R group. Western blot analysis also revealed that astragalin preconditioning significantly reduced Bax level, whereas Bcl-2 was increased in the myocardium. Therefore, astragalin exhibited cardioprotective effects via its antioxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities.

Cardioprotective Effects of Astragalin against Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Isolated Rat Heart

PubMed Central

Qu, Daoxu; Ren, Huanhuan; Yang, Wenxiao; Zhang, Xinjie; Zheng, Qiusheng; Wang, Dong

2016-01-01

This study aims to evaluate the cardioprotective effects of astragalin against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in isolated rat heart. The cardioprotective effects of astragalin on myocardial I/R injury were investigated on Langendorff apparatus. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. The results showed that astragalin pretreatment improved myocardial function. Compared with I/R group, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) activities in coronary flow decreased in astragalin pretreatment groups, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) ratio significantly increased. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) decreased in astragalin-treated groups. The infarct size (IS) and apoptosis rate in hearts from astragalin-treated groups were lower than those in hearts from the I/R group. Western blot analysis also revealed that astragalin preconditioning significantly reduced Bax level, whereas Bcl-2 was increased in the myocardium. Therefore, astragalin exhibited cardioprotective effects via its antioxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory activities. PMID:26788251

Effectiveness of music therapy as an aid to neurorestoration of children with severe neurological disorders.

PubMed

Bringas, Maria L; Zaldivar, Marilyn; Rojas, Pedro A; Martinez-Montes, Karelia; Chongo, Dora M; Ortega, Maria A; Galvizu, Reynaldo; Perez, Alba E; Morales, Lilia M; Maragoto, Carlos; Vera, Hector; Galan, Lidice; Besson, Mireille; Valdes-Sosa, Pedro A

2015-01-01

This study was a two-armed parallel group design aimed at testing real world effectiveness of a music therapy (MT) intervention for children with severe neurological disorders. The control group received only the standard neurorestoration program and the experimental group received an additional MT "Auditory Attention plus Communication protocol" just before the usual occupational and speech therapy. Multivariate Item Response Theory (MIRT) identified a neuropsychological status-latent variable manifested in all children and which exhibited highly significant changes only in the experimental group. Changes in brain plasticity also occurred in the experimental group, as evidenced using a Mismatch Event Related paradigm which revealed significant post intervention positive responses in the latency range between 308 and 400 ms in frontal regions. LORETA EEG source analysis identified prefrontal and midcingulate regions as differentially activated by the MT in the experimental group. Taken together, our results showing improved attention and communication as well as changes in brain plasticity in children with severe neurological impairments, confirm the importance of MT for the rehabilitation of patients across a wide range of dysfunctions.

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.

Adverse effects of pesticides on central auditory functions in tobacco growers.

PubMed

França, Denise Maria Vaz Romano; Bender Moreira Lacerda, Adriana; Lobato, Diolen; Ribas, Angela; Ziliotto Dias, Karin; Leroux, Tony; Fuente, Adrian

2017-04-01

To investigate the effects of exposure to pesticides on the central auditory functions (CAF) of Brazilian tobacco growers. This was a cross-sectional study carried out between 2010 and 2012. Participants were evaluated with two behavioural procedures to investigate CAF, the random gap detection test (RGDT) and the dichotic digit test in Portuguese (DDT). A total of 22 growers exposed to pesticides (study group) and 21 subjects who were not exposed to pesticides (control group) were selected. No significant differences between groups were observed for pure-tone thresholds. A significant association between pesticide exposure and the results for RGDT and DDT was found. Significant differences between pesticide-exposed and nonexposed subjects were found for RGDT frequency average and DDT binaural average, when including age and hearing level as covariates. Age was significantly associated with RGDT frequency average, DDT left ear score, DDT binaural average and DDT right ear advantage. Hearing levels were not significantly associated with any of the test scores. The relative risk of failing the DDT and RGDT for the study group was 1.88 (95% CI: 1.10-3.20) and 1.74 (95% CI: 1.06-2.86), respectively, as compared with the control group. The results showed that tobacco growers exposed to pesticides exhibited signs of central auditory dysfunction characterised by decrements in temporal processing and binaural integration processes/abilities.

Theory of mind and functionality in bipolar patients with symptomatic remission.

PubMed

Barrera, Angeles; Vázquez, Gustavo; Tannenhaus, Lucila; Lolich, María; Herbst, Luis

2013-01-01

Functional deficits are commonly observed in bipolar disorder after symptomatic remission. Social cognition deficits have also been reported, which could contribute to dysfunction in patients with bipolar disorder in remission. Twelve bipolar disorder patients in symptomatic remission (7 patients with bipolar disorder type I and 5 with bipolar disorder type II) and 12 healthy controls completed the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test and the Faux Pas Test to evaluate theory of mind (ToM). Both groups also completed the Functional Assessment Short Test (FAST). The performance of the bipolar patients in the cognitive component of ToM was below normal, although the difference between the control group was not statistically significant (P=.078), with a trend to a worse performance associated with a higher number of depressive episodes (P=.082). There were no statistically significant differences between groups for the emotional component of ToM. Global functionality was significantly lower in bipolar patients compared to the control group (P=.001). Significant differences were also observed between both groups in five of the six dimensions of functionality assessed. No significant correlation was found between functionality and theory of mind. Bipolar patients in symptomatic remission exhibit impairments in several areas of functioning. Cognitive ToM appears more affected than emotional ToM. Deficits in ToM were not related to functional impairment. Copyright © 2012 SEP y SEPB. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Safety impact of engineering treatments on undivided rural roads.

PubMed

Pérez, I

2006-01-01

This article presents an evaluation of the safety impacts of four engineering treatments implemented in the Autonomous Community of Madrid (Spain): highway upgrading; updating and improvement of traffic signing; repainting of pavement markings and pavement resurfacings. This evaluation was carried out using the Empirical Bayes method with a comparison group. The functioning of a methodology to test the significance of the safety impact is described. The results show that highway upgrading has a positive and significant safety impact, while the updating and improvement of traffic signing, the repainting of road markings and pavement resurfacings do not exhibit a significant impact on safety.

Comparison in anesthetic effects of propofol among patients with different ABO blood groups.

PubMed

Du, Yiri; Shi, Haixia; Yu, Jianshe

2017-05-01

Our study was aimed to investigate anesthetic effects of propofol in patients with different blood groups.A total of 72 participants were enrolled from patients arranged for surgeries of cholecystectomy, tonsillectomy, and spinal operation. Each blood group (A, B, AB, and O) contained 18 participants. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and bispectral index (BIS) were assayed with Philips monitor. These indexes were observed before propofol anesthesia (T0), and then were recorded when concentration of propofol was 1 μg/mL (T1), 2 μg/mL (T2), 3 μg/mL (T3), and 4 μg/mL (T4). The differences in MAP, HR, and BIS at T0 among groups were compared with the χ test. Multiple comparisons were adopted to calculate the differences in MAP, HR, and BIS between groups at T1, T2, T3, and T4.No significant differences in age, sex, and weight of all groups were found (P > .05). Before propofol anesthesia (T0), all the participants exhibited no differences in MAP, HR, and BIS (P > .05). Subsequently, we found obvious differences in ΔMAP, ΔHR, and ΔBIS between groups. The patients in the B blood group showed highest ΔMAP and ΔHR at each time point (P < .05 for both). As for ΔBIS, patients in A blood group exhibited highest value at T3 and T4 (P < .05).The blood group remarkably affects the anesthetic effects of propofol.

The effect of increased adiposity on food intake of juvenile rats.

PubMed

Drewry, M M; Harris, R B; Martin, R J

1989-02-01

The regulation of feeding by body adiposity, as proposed by the lipostatic theory, has been well demonstrated in adult animals. However, mechanisms controlling long-term feeding in juvenile animals have not been well defined. In this study, increased adiposity was induced in young rats through oral gavage. Four-week-old rats were divided into three groups; ad lib feeding (100%-AL), tubefed 100% (100%-TF) or 150% (150%-TF) of ad lib intake. Animals were tube-fed these levels for one week. At the end of this period, one third of each group were killed and all remaining animals were returned to ad lib feeding for either 4 or 29 days later. During this recovery period, the 150%-TF group had significantly depressed food intakes for the first 4 days in comparison to the 100%-TF group. Afterwards, there were no significant differences between these two groups for the remainder of study. Overfeeding induced significant increases in total body fat in the 150%-TF group (24.8 grams) in comparison to the 100%-AL group (11.0 grams) and the 100%-TF group (14.0 grams). By day five of recovery, only the 150% group exhibited a significant loss of body fat. Total carcass protein and ash were not different between groups at any period. At day 29 of recovery, there were no treatment differences in carcass weight or fat content. Loss of body fat from the 150%-TF rats was associated with the decline in caloric intake. It appears that food intake is affected by relative adiposity during the dynamic phase of growth.

Comparing shame in clinical and nonclinical populations: Preliminary findings.

PubMed

Dyer, Kevin F W; Dorahy, Martin J; Corry, Mary; Black, Rebecca; Matheson, Laura; Coles, Holly; Curran, David; Seager, Lenaire; Middleton, Warwick

2017-03-01

To conduct a preliminary study comparing different trauma and clinical populations on types of shame coping style and levels of state shame and guilt. A mixed independent groups/correlational design was employed. Participants were recruited by convenience sampling of 3 clinical populations-complex trauma (n = 65), dissociative identity disorder (DID; n = 20), and general mental health (n = 41)-and a control group of healthy volunteers (n = 125). All participants were given (a) the Compass of Shame Scale, which measures the four common shame coping behaviors/styles of "withdrawal," "attack self," "attack other," and "avoidance," and (b) the State Shame and Guilt Scale, which assesses state shame, guilt, and pride. The DID group exhibited significantly higher levels of "attack self," "withdrawal," and "avoidance" relative to the other groups. The complex trauma and general mental health groups did not differ on any shame variable. All three clinical groups had significantly greater levels of the "withdrawal" coping style and significantly impaired shame/guilt/pride relative to the healthy volunteers. "Attack self" emerged as a significant predictor of increased state shame in the complex trauma, general mental health, and healthy volunteer groups, whereas "withdrawal" was the sole predictor of state shame in the DID group. DID emerged as having a different profile of shame processes compared to the other clinical groups, whereas the complex trauma and general mental health groups had comparable shame levels and variable relationships. These differential profiles of shame coping and state shame are discussed with reference to assessment and treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved).

Effects of different dietary lipid sources on growth performance and tissue fatty acid composition of juvenile swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Tao; Wang, Jiteng; Hu, Shuixin; Li, Xinyu; Jiang, Yudong; Wang, Chunlin

2015-07-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary lipid sources on the growth performance and fatty acid composition of the swimming crab, Portunus trituberculatus. Four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic experimental diets were formulated to contain four separate lipid sources, including fish, soybean, rapeseed, and linseed oils (FO, SO, RO, and LO, respectively). With three replicates of 18 crabs each for each diet, crabs (initial body weight, 17.00±0.09 g) were fed twice daily for 8 weeks. There were no significant differences among these groups in terms of weight gain, specific growth rate, and hepatosomatic index. However, the RO groups' survival rate was significantly lower than FO groups. The feed conversion and protein efficiency ratios of RO groups were poorer than other groups. The proximate compositions of whole body and hepatopancreas were significantly affected by these dietary treatments. Tissue fatty acid composition mainly reflected dietary fatty acid compositions. Crabs fed FO diets exhibited significantly higher arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic acid contents in muscle and hepatopancreas compared with VO crabs. Linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acids in muscle and hepatopancreas were the highest in the SO, RO, and LO groups, respectively. The present study suggested that SO and LO could substitute for FO in fishmeal-based diets for swimming crabs, without affecting growth performance and survival.

Characterization of pica and chewing behaviors in privately owned cats: a case-control study.

PubMed

Demontigny-Bédard, Isabelle; Beauchamp, Guy; Bélanger, Marie-Claude; Frank, Diane

2016-08-01

The aim of this study was to characterize pica behavior in cats. Cat owners were recruited to participate in a questionnaire survey on pica behavior exhibited by their cats. Emphasis was put on the type of item ingested. Questions on early history and environment, as well as general health and gastrointestinal signs, were asked. Owners of healthy cats not showing pica were also recruited into a control group. Associations between variables and groups were statistically tested. Pica was directed most commonly at shoelaces or threads, followed by plastic, fabric, other items, rubber, paper or cardboard and wood. Some cats ingested specific items but only chewed others. A significant positive association was found between sucking and ingesting fabric (P = 0.002). Ad libitum feeding was significantly lower in the pica group than the control group (P = 0.01). Prevalence of self-sucking behavior was significantly higher in the pica group than the control group (P = 0.001). Cats with pica vomited significantly more often than control cats (P = 0.01). Pica, the ingestion of inedible items, does not seem to be the consequence of a suboptimal environment or early weaning. Cats with pica were less commonly fed ad libitum than healthy cats. As frequently reported, pica and vomiting were related, but the causative association is not well established and thus warrants further investigation. © The Author(s) 2015.

An Intervention to Reduce Bicycle Injuries among Middle School Students in Rural China

PubMed Central

Ye, Yanru; Lu, Yaogui; Li, Liping; Gao, Yang

2017-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to reduce bicycle injuries among rural middle school students in China. A one-year cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted with seventh grade students from six middle schools in two towns in rural Chaoshan, China. The two towns were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Road safety education materials, two lectures on road safety, and a series of health education activities were delivered to 1312 students in the intervention group over one year, and the content of the intervention included traffic safety knowledge, methods of preventing bicycle injury and management of bicycle injuries. Questionnaires weere administered to the two groups before and after the intervention to measure the incidence, cognitions, and behaviors related to bicycle injuries. The pre-intervention incidence of bicycle injuries exhibited no significant difference between the two groups, while the difference reached significance after the intervention (χ2 = 13.409, p < 0.001). In the intervention group, the incidence decreased significantly after the intervention (χ2 = 8.137, p = 0.004), while no significant change was observed in the control group. Publicity and education intervention measures have certain short-term effects on the prevention of bicycle injuries among rural middle school students; we should approach intervention measures according to the characteristics of traffic injuries in different areas. PMID:28672854

Embracing Errors in Simulation-Based Training: The Effect of Error Training on Retention and Transfer of Central Venous Catheter Skills.

PubMed

Gardner, Aimee K; Abdelfattah, Kareem; Wiersch, John; Ahmed, Rami A; Willis, Ross E

2015-01-01

Error management training is an approach that encourages exposure to errors during initial skill acquisition so that learners can be equipped with important error identification, management, and metacognitive skills. The purpose of this study was to determine how an error-focused training program affected performance, retention, and transfer of central venous catheter (CVC) placement skills when compared with traditional training methodologies. Surgical interns (N = 30) participated in a 1-hour session featuring an instructional video and practice performing internal jugular (IJ) and subclavian (SC) CVC placement with guided instruction. All interns underwent baseline knowledge and skill assessment for IJ and SC (pretest) CVC placement; watched a "correct-only" (CO) or "correct + error" (CE) instructional video; practiced for 30 minutes; and were posttested on knowledge and IJ and SC CVC placement. Skill retention and transfer (femoral CVC placement) were assessed 30 days later. All skills tests (pretest, posttest, and transfer) were videorecorded and deidentified for evaluation by a single blinded instructor using a validated 17-item checklist. Both the groups exhibited significant improvements (p < 0.001) in knowledge and skills after the 1-hour training program, but the increase of items achieved on the performance checklist did not differ between conditions (CO: IJ Δ = 35%, SC Δ = 29%; CE: IJ Δ = 36%, subclavian Δ = 33%). However, 1 month later, the CO group exhibited significant declines in skill retention on IJ CVC placement (from 68% at posttraining to 44% at day 30; p < 0.05) and SC CVC placement (from 63% at posttraining to 49% at day 30; p < 0.05), whereas the CE group did not have significant decreases in performance. The CE group performed significantly better on femoral CVC placement (i.e., transfer task; 62% vs 38%; p < 0.01) and on 2 of the 3 complication scenarios (p < 0.05) when compared with the CO group. These data indicate that incorporating error-based activities and discussions into training programs can be beneficial for skill retention and transfer. Copyright © 2015 Association of Program Directors in Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Diffuse optical measurements of head and neck tumor hemodynamics for early prediction of radiation therapy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Lixin; Kudrimoti, Mahesh; Irwin, Daniel; Chen, Li; Shang, Yu; Li, Xingzhe; Stevens, Scott D.; Shelton, Brent J.; Yu, Guoqiang

2016-03-01

Radiation therapy is a principal modality for head and neck cancers and its efficacy depends on tumor hemodynamics. Our laboratory developed a hybrid diffuse optical instrument allowing for simultaneous measurements of tumor blood flow and oxygenation. In this study, the clinically involved cervical lymph node was monitored by the hybrid instrument once a week over the treatment period of seven weeks. Based on treatment outcomes within one year, patients were classified into a complete response group (CR) and an incomplete response group (IR) with remote metastasis and/or local recurrence. A linear mixed models was used to compare tumor hemodynamic responses to the treatment between the two groups. Interestingly, we found that human papilloma virus (HPV-16) status largely affected tumor hemodynamic responses. For HPV-16 negative tumors, significant differences in blood flow index (BFI, p = 0.007) and reduced scattering coefficient (μs', p = 0.0005) were observed between the two groups; IR tumors exhibited higher μs' values and a continuous increase in BFI over the treatment period. For HPV-16 positive tumors, oxygenated hemoglobin concentration ([HbO2]) and blood oxygen saturation (StO2) were significant different (p = 0.003 and 0.01, respectively); IR group showed lower [HbO2] and StO2. Our results imply HPV-16 negative tumors with higher density of vasculature (μs') and higher blood flow show poor responses to radiotherapy and HPV-16 positive tumors with lower tissue oxygenation level (lower StO2 and [HbO2]) exhibit poor treatment outcomes. Our diffuse optical measurements show the great potential for early prediction of radiotherapy in head and neck cancers.

Enhancing Cardiac Rehabilitation With Stress Management Training: A Randomized Clinical Efficacy Trial

PubMed Central

Blumenthal, James A.; Sherwood, Andrew; Smith, Patrick J.; Watkins, Lana; Mabe, Stephanie; Kraus, William E.; Ingle, Krista; Miller, Paula; Hinderliter, Alan

2016-01-01

Background Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is the standard of care for patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Despite considerable epidemiologic evidence that high stress is associated with worse health outcomes, stress management training (SMT) is not included routinely as a component of CR. Methods and Results 151 outpatients with CHD aged 36 to 84 years were randomized to 12-weeks of comprehensive CR or comprehensive CR combined with SMT (CR+SMT), with assessments of stress and CHD biomarkers obtained before and after treatment. A matched sample of CR-eligible patients who did not receive CR comprised a No-CR comparison group. All participants were followed for up to 5.3 years (median = 3.2 years) for clinical events. Patients randomized to CR+SMT exhibited greater reductions in composite stress levels compared with those randomized to CR alone (P = 0.022), an effect that was driven primarily by improvements in anxiety, distress, and perceived stress. Both CR groups achieved significant, and comparable, improvements in CHD biomarkers. Participants in the CR+SMT group exhibited lower rates of clinical events compared with CR alone (18% vs. 33%, HR = 0.49 [0.25, 0.95], P = 0.035) and both CR groups had lower event rates compared to the No-CR group (47%, HR = 0.44 [0.27, 0.71], P < .001). Conclusions CR enhanced by SMT produced significant reductions in stress and greater improvements in medical outcomes compared with standard CR. Our findings indicate that SMT may provide incremental benefit when combined with comprehensive CR and suggest that SMT should be incorporated routinely into CR. Clinical Trial Registration Information www.Clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT00981253. PMID:27045127

The Bad Berka dose protocol: comparative results of dosimetry in peptide receptor radionuclide therapy using (177)Lu-DOTATATE, (177)Lu-DOTANOC, and (177)Lu-DOTATOC.

PubMed

Schuchardt, Christiane; Kulkarni, Harshad R; Prasad, Vikas; Zachert, Carolin; Müller, Dirk; Baum, Richard P

2013-01-01

The objective of this study is to analyze the in vivo behavior of the (177)Lu-labeled peptides DOTATATE, DOTANOC, and DOTATOC used for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRNT) of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), by measuring organ and tumor kinetics and by performing dosimetric calculations. Two hundred fifty-three patients (group 1) with metastasized NET who underwent PRRNT were examined. Out of these, 185 patients received (177)Lu-DOTATATE, 9 were treated with (177)Lu-DOTANOC, and 59 with (177)Lu-DOTATOC. Additionally, 25 patients receiving, in consecutive PRRNT cycles, DOTATATE followed by DOTATOC (group 2) and 3 patients receiving DOTATATE and DOTANOC (group 3) were analyzed. Dosimetric calculations (according to MIRD scheme) were performed using OLINDA software. In group 1, DOTATOC exhibited the lowest and DOTANOC the highest uptake and therefore mean absorbed dose in normal organs (whole body, kidney, and spleen). In group 2, there was a significant difference between DOTATATE and DOTATOC concerning kinetics and normal organ doses. (177)Lu-DOTATOC had the lowest uptake/dose delivered to normal organs and highest tumor-to-kidney ratio. There were no significant differences between the three peptides concerning tumor kinetics and mean absorbed tumor dose. The study demonstrates a correlation between high affinity of DOTANOC in vitro and high uptake in normal organs/whole body in vivo, resulting in a higher whole-body dose. DOTATOC exhibited the lowest uptake and dose delivered to normal tissues and the best tumor-to-kidney ratio. Due to large interpatient variability, individual dosimetry should be performed for each therapy cycle.

Raloxifene Ameliorates Liver Fibrosis of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Induced by Choline-Deficient High-Fat Diet in Ovariectomized Mice.

PubMed

Luo, Fangqiong; Ishigami, Masatoshi; Achiwa, Koichi; Ishizu, Yoji; Kuzuya, Teiji; Honda, Takashi; Hayashi, Kazuhiko; Ishikawa, Tetsuya; Katano, Yoshiaki; Goto, Hidemi

2015-09-01

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is higher in men than in women, but according to some epidemiological studies, this gender difference disappears after menopause. Estrogen therapy protects against NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) after menopause. We investigated the therapeutic effect of raloxifene, a second-generation selective estrogen-receptor modulator, on NASH induced by a choline-deficient high-fat (CDHF) diet in female ovariectomized (OVX) mice. Seven-week-old female C57BL/6J mice were divided into three experimental groups as follows: (1) sham operation (SHAM group), (2) ovariectomy (OVX group), and (3) ovariectomy + raloxifene (intraperitoneal injection, 3 mg/kg body weight/day; OVX + RLX group). These three groups of mice were fed a CDHF diet for 8 weeks; choline-sufficient high-fat (CSHF) diet was used as control diet. Serum biochemical indicators of hepatic function and liver histological changes were evaluated. Compared with CSHF diet, ovariectomy enhances liver injury and fibrosis in CDHF diet-fed mice. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were significantly lower in the OVX + RLX group than in the OVX group. The OVX group developed extensive steatosis with inflammation and fibrosis. Lobular inflammatory scores and fibrosis staging in the OVX + RLX group were significantly lower than in the OVX group. Furthermore, the OVX + RLX group exhibited significantly higher expression of hepatic estrogen receptor-α, which was significantly lower in the OVX group than in the SHAM group. Raloxifene may ameliorate progression of liver fibrosis of NASH induced by CDHF diet in ovariectomized female mice, and up-regulation of estrogen receptor-α may play an important role in the beneficial effects of raloxifene on NASH.

Long-term effects of parental divorce timing on depression: A population-based longitudinal study.

PubMed

Chun, Sung-Youn; Jang, Suk-Yong; Choi, Jae-Woo; Shin, Jaeyong; Park, Eun-Cheol

2016-09-08

We examined the long-term effects of parental divorce timing on depression using longitudinal data from the Korean Welfare Panel Study. Depression symptoms were measured using the 11 items of Center for Epidemiologic Scale for Depression (CES-D-11), and we categorized parental divorce timing into 'early childhood', 'adolescent' and 'none'. Although participants who experienced parental divorce during adolescence exhibited a significantly higher CES-D-11 score (p = .0468), 'early childhood' participants displayed the most increased CES-D-11 score compared to the control group (p = .0007). Conversely, among participants who were unsatisfied with their marriage, those who experienced parental divorce in early childhood showed lower CES-D-11 scores, while 'adolescent period' participants exhibited significantly higher CES-D-11 scores (p = .0131). We concluded that timing of parental divorce exerts substantial yet varied effects on long-term depression symptoms and future marriage satisfaction. © The Author(s) 2016.

Limited value of haptics in virtual reality laparoscopic cholecystectomy training.

PubMed

Thompson, Jonathan R; Leonard, Anthony C; Doarn, Charles R; Roesch, Matt J; Broderick, Timothy J

2011-04-01

Haptics is an expensive addition to virtual reality (VR) simulators, and the added value to training has not been proven. This study evaluated the benefit of haptics in VR laparoscopic surgery training for novices. The Simbionix LapMentor II haptic VR simulator was used in the study. Randomly, 33 laparoscopic novice students were placed in one of three groups: control, haptics-trained, or nonhaptics-trained group. The control group performed nine basic laparoscopy tasks and four cholecystectomy procedural tasks one time with haptics engaged at the default setting. The haptics group was trained to proficiency in the basic tasks and then performed each of the procedural tasks one time with haptics engaged. The nonhaptics group used the same training protocol except that haptics was disengaged. The proficiency values used were previously published expert values. Each group was assessed in the performance of 10 laparoscopic cholecystectomies (alternating with and without haptics). Performance was measured via automatically collected simulator data. The three groups exhibited no differences in terms of sex, education level, hand dominance, video game experience, surgical experience, and nonsurgical simulator experience. The number of attempts required to reach proficiency did not differ between the haptics- and nonhaptics-training groups. The haptics and nonhaptics groups exhibited no difference in performance. Both training groups outperformed the control group in number of movements as well as path length of the left instrument. In addition, the nonhaptics group outperformed the control group in total time. Haptics does not improve the efficiency or effectiveness of LapMentor II VR laparoscopic surgery training. The limited benefit and the significant cost of haptics suggest that haptics should not be included routinely in VR laparoscopic surgery training.

The effects of pilates exercise on lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression in female undergraduates.

PubMed

Kim, Hyo-Jin; Kim, Jiyeon; Kim, Chang-Sun

2014-09-01

The purpose of the study was to verify the effects of Pilates exercise by observing the impact of 8 weeks of Pilates exercise on lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression in female undergraduates in their 20s who had no prior experience in Pilates exercise and had not exercised in the previous 6 months. There were 18 subjects with no prior experience in Pilates exercise. The subjects were separated into the Pilates exercise group (n = 9) and the non-exercise control group (n = 9). The former performed Pilates exercise for 60-70 minutes over 8 weeks with a gradual strength increase of 9-16 in the Rating of Perceived Exercise (RPE). The body composition, creatine kinase in the bloodstream and lipid metabolism (TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) were measured before and after the experiment and Real-Time PCR was used to investigate the mRNA expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-⍺. The creatine kinase (CK) in the blood had significant differences between the groups. The test group showed significant increase compared to the control group after 8 weeks of Pilates exercise (p = 0.007). Lipid analysis showed that the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was significantly different in the two groups (p = 0.049), with the Pilates exercise group exhibiting significantly higher levels compared to the control group. No significant differences were observed in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (TG). IL-6 mRNA expression did not show significant differences between the groups either. Timing and TNF-α mRNA expression showed significant effect in both the exercise and the control groups (p = 0.013) but no correlation. It was found from the study that Pilates exercise for 8 weeks affected CK expression (the muscle damage marker) and induced positive changes in the levels of high-density lipoprotein.

The effects of pilates exercise on lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression in female undergraduates

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyo-Jin; Kim, Jiyeon; Kim, Chang-Sun

2014-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of the study was to verify the effects of Pilates exercise by observing the impact of 8 weeks of Pilates exercise on lipid metabolism and inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression in female undergraduates in their 20s who had no prior experience in Pilates exercise and had not exercised in the previous 6 months. [Methods] There were 18 subjects with no prior experience in Pilates exercise. The subjects were separated into the Pilates exercise group (n = 9) and the non-exercise control group (n = 9). The former performed Pilates exercise for 60-70 minutes over 8 weeks with a gradual strength increase of 9-16 in the Rating of Perceived Exercise (RPE). The body composition, creatine kinase in the bloodstream and lipid metabolism (TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, TG) were measured before and after the experiment and Real-Time PCR was used to investigate the mRNA expression of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-⍺. [Results] The creatine kinase (CK) in the blood had significant differences between the groups. The test group showed significant increase compared to the control group after 8 weeks of Pilates exercise (p = 0.007). Lipid analysis showed that the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was significantly different in the two groups (p = 0.049), with the Pilates exercise group exhibiting significantly higher levels compared to the control group. No significant differences were observed in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (TG). IL-6 mRNA expression did not show significant differences between the groups either. Timing and TNF-α mRNA expression showed significant effect in both the exercise and the control groups (p = 0.013) but no correlation. [Conclusion] It was found from the study that Pilates exercise for 8 weeks affected CK expression (the muscle damage marker) and induced positive changes in the levels of high-density lipoprotein. PMID:25566463

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

Izquierdo-Vega, Jeannett A.; FES-Cuautitlan. UNAM. Cuautitlan Izcalli, Estado de Mexico; Sanchez-Gutierrez, Manuel

Fluorosis, caused by drinking water contamination with inorganic fluoride, is a public health problem in many areas around the world. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of environmentally relevant doses of fluoride on in vitro fertilization (IVF) capacity of spermatozoa, and its relationship to spermatozoa mitochondrial transmembrane potential ({delta}{psi}{sub m}). Male Wistar rats were administered at 5 mg fluoride/kg body mass/24 h, or deionized water orally for 8 weeks. We evaluated several spermatozoa parameters in treated and untreated rats: i) standard quality analysis, ii) superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, iii) the generation of superoxide anion (O{sub 2}{supmore » {center_dot}}{sup -}), iv) lipid peroxidation concentration, v) ultrastructural analyses of spermatozoa using transmission electron microscopy, vi) {delta}{psi}{sub m}, vii) acrosome reaction, and viii) IVF capability. Spermatozoa from fluoride-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease in SOD activity ({approx} 33%), accompanied with a significant increase in the generation of O{sub 2}{sup {center_dot}} ({approx} 40%), a significant decrease in {delta}{psi}{sub m} ({approx} 33%), and a significant increase in lipid peroxidation concentration ({approx} 50%), relative to spermatozoa from the control group. Consistent with this finding, spermatozoa from fluoride-treated rats exhibited altered plasmatic membrane. In addition, the percentage of fluoride-treated spermatozoa capable of undergoing the acrosome reaction was decreased relative to control spermatozoa (34 vs. 55%), while the percentage fluoride-treated spermatozoa capable of oocyte fertilization was also significantly lower than the control group (13 vs. 71%). These observations suggest that subchronic exposure to fluoride causes oxidative stress damage and loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, resulting in reduced fertility.« less

Decreased in vitro fertility in male rats exposed to fluoride-induced oxidative stress damage and mitochondrial transmembrane potential loss.

PubMed

Izquierdo-Vega, Jeannett A; Sánchez-Gutiérrez, Manuel; Del Razo, Luz María

2008-08-01

Fluorosis, caused by drinking water contamination with inorganic fluoride, is a public health problem in many areas around the world. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of environmentally relevant doses of fluoride on in vitro fertilization (IVF) capacity of spermatozoa, and its relationship to spermatozoa mitochondrial transmembrane potential (DeltaPsi(m)). Male Wistar rats were administered at 5 mg fluoride/kg body mass/24 h, or deionized water orally for 8 weeks. We evaluated several spermatozoa parameters in treated and untreated rats: i) standard quality analysis, ii) superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, iii) the generation of superoxide anion (O(2)(-)), iv) lipid peroxidation concentration, v) ultrastructural analyses of spermatozoa using transmission electron microscopy, vi) DeltaPsi(m), vii) acrosome reaction, and viii) IVF capability. Spermatozoa from fluoride-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease in SOD activity (~33%), accompanied with a significant increase in the generation of O(2)() (~40%), a significant decrease in DeltaPsi(m) (~33%), and a significant increase in lipid peroxidation concentration (~50%), relative to spermatozoa from the control group. Consistent with this finding, spermatozoa from fluoride-treated rats exhibited altered plasmatic membrane. In addition, the percentage of fluoride-treated spermatozoa capable of undergoing the acrosome reaction was decreased relative to control spermatozoa (34 vs. 55%), while the percentage fluoride-treated spermatozoa capable of oocyte fertilization was also significantly lower than the control group (13 vs. 71%). These observations suggest that subchronic exposure to fluoride causes oxidative stress damage and loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, resulting in reduced fertility.

Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of an in-office desensitizing paste containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate in providing instant and lasting relief of dentin hypersensitivity.

PubMed

Schiff, Thomas; Delgado, Evaristo; Zhang, Yun Po; Cummins, Diane; DeVizio, William; Mateo, Luis R

2009-03-01

To determine the efficacy of an in-office desensitizing paste containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate relative to that of a commercially-available pumice prophylaxis paste in reducing dentin hypersensitivity instantly after a single application following a dental scaling procedure and to establish the duration of sensitivity relief over a period of 4 weeks and 12 weeks. This was a single-center, parallel group, double-blind, stratified clinical study conducted in San Francisco, California, USA. Qualifying adult male and female subjects who presented two hypersensitive teeth with a tactile hypersensitivity score (Yeaple Probe) between 10-50 grams of force and an air blast hypersensitivity score of 2 or 3 (Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale) were stratified according to their baseline hypersensitivity scores and randomly assigned within strata to one of two treatment groups: (1) A Test Paste, a desensitizing paste containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate (Colgate-Palmolive Co); and (2) A Control Paste, Nupro pumice prophylaxis paste (Dentsply Professional). Subjects received a professionally-administered scaling procedure, after which they were re-examined for tactile and air blast dentin hypersensitivity (Post-Scaling Examinations). The assigned pastes were then applied as the final step to the professional dental cleaning procedure. Tactile and air blast dentin hypersensitivity examinations were again performed immediately after paste application. Subjects were provided with a commercially-available non-desensitizing dentifrice containing 0.243% sodium fluoride (Crest Cavity Protection, Procter & Gamble Co.) and an adult soft-bristled toothbrush and were instructed to brush their teeth for 1 minute, twice daily at home using only the toothbrush and dentifrice provided, for the next 12 weeks. Subjects returned to the testing facility 4 and 12 weeks after the single application of Test or Control paste, having refrained from all oral hygiene procedures and chewing gum for 8 hours and from eating and drinking for 4 hours, prior to each follow-up visit. Assessments of tactile and air blast hypersensitivity, and examinations of oral soft and hard tissue were repeated at these 4- and 12-week examinations. 68 subjects completed the 12-week study. No statistically significant differences from baseline scores were indicated at the Post-Scaling Examinations for either the Test Paste or Control Paste groups. Immediately following product application and 4 weeks after product application, subjects assigned to the Test Paste group exhibited statistically significant improvements from baseline with respect to baseline-adjusted mean air blast (44.1% and 45.9% respectively) and mean tactile hypersensitivity scores (156.2% and 170.3% respectively). At the same time points, subjects assigned to the Control Paste group exhibited statistically significant improvements from baseline with respect to baseline-adjusted mean air blast (15.1% and 8.9% respectively) and mean tactile hypersensitivity scores (43.1% and 8.3% respectively). Immediately following application of the assigned paste and 4 weeks later, the Test Paste group demonstrated statistically significant reductions in dentin hypersensitivity with respect to baseline-adjusted mean air blast (34.1% and 40.6% respectively) and mean tactile hypersensitivity scores (79.0% and 149.6% respectively), compared to the Control Paste group. No statistically significant differences were exhibited between paste groups at the Post-Scaling and 12-week examinations with respect to mean tactile and baseline-adjusted mean air blast hypersensitivity scores.

Increased risk of developing schizophrenia in animals exposed to cigarette smoke during the gestational period.

PubMed

Zugno, Alexandra I; Oliveira, Mariana B; Mastella, Gustavo A; Heylmann, Alexandra S A; Canever, Lara; Pacheco, Felipe D; Damazio, Louyse S; Citadin, Sullivan A; de Lucca, Luiz Antonio; Simões, Lutiana Roque; Malgarin, Fernanda; Budni, Josiane; Barichello, Tatiana; Schuck, Patricia F; Quevedo, João

2017-04-03

Cigarette smoking during the prenatal period has been investigated as a causative factor of obstetric abnormalities, which lead to cognitive and behavioural changes associated with schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to investigate behaviour and AChE activity in brain structures in adult rats exposed to cigarette smoke during the prenatal period. Pregnant rats were divided into non-PCSE (non-prenatal cigarette smoke exposure) and PCSE (prenatal cigarette smoke exposure) groups. On post-natal day 60, the rats received saline or ketamine for 7days and were subjected to behavioural tasks. In the locomotor activity task, the non-PCSE+ketamine and PCSE+ketamine groups exhibited increased locomotor activity compared with the saline group. In the social interaction task, the non-PCSE+ketamine and PCSE+ketamine groups exhibited an increased latency compared with the control groups. However, the PCSE+ketamine group exhibited a decreased latency compared with the non-PCSE+ketamine group, which indicates that the cigarette exposure appeared to decrease, the social deficits generated by ketamine. In the inhibitory avoidance task, the non-PCSE+ketamine, PCSE, and PCSE+ketamine groups exhibited impairments in working memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. In the pre-pulse inhibition (PPI) test, cigarette smoke associated with ketamine resulted in impaired PPI in 3 pre-pulse (PP) intensity groups compared with the control groups. In the biochemical analysis, the AChE activity in brain structures increased in the ketamine groups; however, the PCSE+ketamine group exhibited an exacerbated effect in all brain structures. The present study indicates that exposure to cigarette smoke during the prenatal period may affect behaviour and cerebral cholinergic structures during adulthood. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The fixation strength of tibial PCL press-fit reconstructions.

PubMed

Ettinger, M; Wehrhahn, T; Petri, M; Liodakis, E; Olender, G; Albrecht, U-V; Hurschler, C; Krettek, C; Jagodzinski, M

2012-02-01

A secure tibial press-fit technique in posterior cruciate ligament reconstructions is an interesting technique because no hardware is necessary. For anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, a few press-fit procedures have been published. Up to the present point, no biomechanical data exist for a tibial press-fit posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to characterize a press-fit procedure for PCL reconstruction that is biomechanically equivalent to an interference screw fixation. Quadriceps and hamstring tendons of 20 human cadavers (age: 49.2 ± 18.5 years) were used. A press-fit fixation with a knot in the semitendinosus tendon (K) and a quadriceps tendon bone block graft (Q) were compared to an interference screw fixation (I) in 30 porcine femora. In each group, nine constructs were cyclically stretched and then loaded until failure. Maximum load to failure, stiffness, and elongation during failure testing and cyclical loading were investigated. The maximum load to failure was 518 ± 157 N (387-650 N) for the (K) group, 558 ± 119 N (466-650 N) for the (I) group, and 620 ± 102 N (541-699 N) for the (Q) group. The stiffness was 55 ± 27 N/mm (18-89 N/mm) for the (K) group, 117 ± 62 N/mm (69-165 N/mm) for the (I) group, and 65 ± 21 N/mm (49-82 N/mm) for the (Q) group. The stiffness of the (I) group was significantly larger (P = 0.01). The elongation during cyclical loading was significantly larger for all groups from the 1st to the 5th cycle compared to the elongation in between the 5th to the 20th cycle (P < 0.03). All techniques exhibited larger elongation during initial loading. Load to failure and stiffness was significantly different between the fixations. The Q fixation showed equal biomechanical properties compared to a pure tendon fixation (I) with an interference screw. All three fixation techniques that were investigated exhibit comparable biomechanical properties. Preconditioning of the constructs is critical. Clinical trials have to investigate the biological effectiveness of these fixation techniques.

Influence of regular exercise on body fat and eating patterns of patients with intermittent claudication.

PubMed

Leicht, Anthony; Crowther, Robert; Golledge, Jonathan

2015-05-18

This study examined the impact of regular supervised exercise on body fat, assessed via anthropometry, and eating patterns of peripheral arterial disease patients with intermittent claudication (IC). Body fat, eating patterns and walking ability were assessed in 11 healthy adults (Control) and age- and mass-matched IC patients undertaking usual care (n = 10; IC-Con) or supervised exercise (12-months; n = 10; IC-Ex). At entry, all groups exhibited similar body fat and eating patterns. Maximal walking ability was greatest for Control participants and similar for IC-Ex and IC-Con patients. Supervised exercise resulted in significantly greater improvements in maximal walking ability (IC-Ex 148%-170% vs. IC-Con 29%-52%) and smaller increases in body fat (IC-Ex -2.1%-1.4% vs. IC-Con 8.4%-10%). IC-Con patients exhibited significantly greater increases in body fat compared with Control at follow-up (8.4%-10% vs. -0.6%-1.4%). Eating patterns were similar for all groups at follow-up. The current study demonstrated that regular, supervised exercise significantly improved maximal walking ability and minimised increase in body fat amongst IC patients without changes in eating patterns. The study supports the use of supervised exercise to minimize cardiovascular risk amongst IC patients. Further studies are needed to examine the additional value of other lifestyle interventions such as diet modification.

Formant transitions in the fluent speech of Farsi-speaking people who stutter.

PubMed

Dehqan, Ali; Yadegari, Fariba; Blomgren, Michael; Scherer, Ronald C

2016-06-01

Second formant (F2) transitions can be used to infer attributes of articulatory transitions. This study compared formant transitions during fluent speech segments of Farsi (Persian) speaking people who stutter and normally fluent Farsi speakers. Ten Iranian males who stutter and 10 normally fluent Iranian males participated. Sixteen different "CVt" tokens were embedded within the phrase "Begu CVt an". Measures included overall F2 transition frequency extents, durations, and derived overall slopes, initial F2 transition slopes at 30ms and 60ms, and speaking rate. (1) Mean overall formant frequency extent was significantly greater in 14 of the 16 CVt tokens for the group of stuttering speakers. (2) Stuttering speakers exhibited significantly longer overall F2 transitions for all 16 tokens compared to the nonstuttering speakers. (3) The overall F2 slopes were similar between the two groups. (4) The stuttering speakers exhibited significantly greater initial F2 transition slopes (positive or negative) for five of the 16 tokens at 30ms and six of the 16 tokens at 60ms. (5) The stuttering group produced a slower syllable rate than the non-stuttering group. During perceptually fluent utterances, the stuttering speakers had greater F2 frequency extents during transitions, took longer to reach vowel steady state, exhibited some evidence of steeper slopes at the beginning of transitions, had overall similar F2 formant slopes, and had slower speaking rates compared to nonstuttering speakers. Findings support the notion of different speech motor timing strategies in stuttering speakers. Findings are likely to be independent of the language spoken. Educational objectives This study compares aspects of F2 formant transitions between 10 stuttering and 10 nonstuttering speakers. Readers will be able to describe: (a) characteristics of formant frequency as a specific acoustic feature used to infer speech movements in stuttering and nonstuttering speakers, (b) two methods of measuring second formant (F2) transitions: the visual criteria method and fixed time criteria method, (c) characteristics of F2 transitions in the fluent speech of stuttering speakers and how those characteristics appear to differ from normally fluent speakers, and (d) possible cross-linguistic effects on acoustic analyses of stuttering. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Maturation characteristics and life history strategies of the Pacific Lamprey, Entosphenus tridentatus

USGS Publications Warehouse

Clemens, Benjamin J.; van de Wetering, Stan; Sower, Stacia A.; Schreck, Carl B.

2013-01-01

Lampreys (Petromyzontiformes) have persisted over millennia and now suffer a recent decline in abundance. Complex life histories may have factored in their persistence; anthropogenic perturbations in their demise. The complexity of life histories of lampreys is not understood, particularly for the anadromous Pacific lamprey, Entosphenus tridentatus Gairdner, 1836. Our goals were to describe the maturation timing and associated characteristics of adult Pacific lamprey, and to test the null hypothesis that different life histories do not exist. Females exhibited early vitellogenesis – early maturation stages; males exhibited spermatogonia – spermatozoa. Cluster analyses revealed an “immature” group and a “maturing–mature” group for each sex. We found statistically significant differences between these groups in the relationships between (i) body mass and total length in males; (ii) Fulton’s condition factor and liver lipids in males; (iii) the gonadosomatic index (GSI) and liver lipids in females; (iv) GSI and total length in females; (v) mean oocyte diameter and liver lipids; and (vi) mean oocyte diameter and GSI. We found no significant difference between the groups in the relationship of muscle lipids and body mass. Our analyses support rejection of the hypothesis of a single life history. We found evidence for an “ocean-maturing” life history that would likely spawn within several weeks of entering fresh water, in addition to the formerly recognized life history of spending 1 year in fresh water prior to spawning—the “stream-maturing” life history. Late maturity, semelparity, and high fecundity suggest that Pacific lamprey capitalize on infrequent opportunities for reproduction in highly variable environments.

Genetic profiling of the oral microbiota associated with severe early-childhood caries.

PubMed

Li, Y; Ge, Y; Saxena, D; Caufield, P W

2007-01-01

The determination of the composition of the microbial community in the oral cavity is usually based on cultivation methods; however, nearly half of the bacteria in the saliva and the dental plaque are not cultivable. In this study, we evaluated the difference in oral microbial diversity between children with severe early-childhood caries (S-ECC) and caries-free (CF) controls by means of a cultivation-independent approach called denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Pooled dental plaque samples were collected from 20 children aged 2 to 8 years. Total microbial genomic DNA was isolated from those subjects, and a portion of the 16S rRNA gene locus was PCR amplified by using universal primers. We observed that the mean species richness of the bacterial population was greater in the CF children (n = 12) (42 +/- 3.7) than in the S-ECC children (n = 8) (35 +/- 4.3); the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.005). The overall diversity of plaque samples as measured by the Shannon index was 3.5 for the S-ECC group and 3.7 for the CF group (P = 0.004). Differences in DGGE profiles were distinguished on the basis of a cluster analysis. Sequence analysis of excised DGGE bands consisted of 2.7 phylotypes, on average. After adjusting for the number of observed bands, we estimated that the S-ECC group exhibited 94.5 total phylotypes and that the CF group exhibited 113.4. These results suggest that the microbial diversity and complexity of the microbial biota in dental plaque are significantly less in S-ECC children than in CF children.

Chronic cigarette smoking and the microstructural integrity of white matter in healthy adults

PubMed Central

Paul, Robert H.; Grieve, Stuart M.; Niaura, Raymond; David, Sean P.; Laidlaw, David H.; Cohen, Ronald; Sweet, Lawrence; Taylor, George; Clark, C. Richard; Pogun, Sakire; Gordon, Evian

2008-01-01

Results from recent studies suggest that chronic cigarette smoking is associated with increased white matter volume in the brain as determined by in vivo neuroimaging. We used diffusion tensor imaging to examine the microstructural integrity of the white matter in 10 chronic smokers and 10 nonsmokers. All individuals were healthy, without histories of medical or psychiatric illness. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and trace were measured in the genu, body, and splenium of the corpus callosum. FA provides a measure of directional versus nondirectional water diffusion, whereas trace provides a measure of nondirectional water diffusion. Lower FA and higher trace values are considered to reflect less brain integrity. Voxel-based morphometry was used to define volumes in each of these regions of the corpus callosum. Chronic smokers exhibited significantly higher FA in the body and whole corpus callosum and a strong trend for higher FA in the splenium compared with nonsmokers. FA did not differ between groups in the genu, and neither trace nor white matter volumes differed between groups in any of the regions of interest. When subdivided by Fagerström score (low vs. high), the low Fagerström group exhibited significantly higher FA in the body of the corpus callosum compared with the high Fagerström group and the nonsmokers. These results suggest that, among healthy adults, lower exposure to cigarette smoking is associated with increased microstructural integrity of the white matter compared with either no exposure or higher exposure. Additional studies are needed to further explore differences in white matter integrity between smokers and nonsmokers. PMID:18188754

MS-20, a chemotherapeutical adjuvant, reduces chemo-associated fatigue and appetite loss in cancer patients.

PubMed

Chi, Kwan-Hwa; Chiou, Tzeon-Jye; Li, Chung-Pin; Chen, Sheng-Yu; Chao, Yee

2014-01-01

A small pilot study of the fermented soybean extract MicrSoy-20(MS-20) demonstrated its ability to restore chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression and improve quality of life (QoL). This randomized, cross-over, comparative trial was conducted to confirm the effects of MS-20 on QoL and to understand its underlying mechanism when used in conjunction with chemotherapy. One hundred forty-three patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Group 1 was administered MS-20 for 1 wk followed by 3 wk of concomitant MS-20 plus chemotherapy. Group 2 was administered chemotherapy for 3 wk. QoL was assessed by the EORTC/QLQ-C30 questionnaire and visual analogue scales (VAS). Changes in immunological parameters and antioxidant profiles were also examined. Significant increases were observed in EORTC/QLQ-C30 scores for physical (4.45, P = 0.023) and social (3.99, P = 0.023) functioning in Group 1 patients compared to Group 2 patients. VAS scores for fatigue and appetite loss significantly improved with MS-20 treatment (P < 0.001). Group 1 patients exhibited smaller decreases in peripheral blood mononuclear cells compared to Group 2 patients (P = 0.026). Other immunological parameters, antioxidant, and safety profiles were not significantly different between treatment groups. Addition of MS-20 as an adjuvant to chemotherapy can be effective in improving QoL for cancer patients.

Efficacy of Endoscopic Over 3-branched Partial Stent-in-Stent Drainage Using Self-expandable Metallic Stents in Patients With Unresectable Hilar Biliary Carcinoma.

PubMed

Uchida, Daisuke; Kato, Hironari; Muro, Shinichiro; Noma, Yasuhiro; Yamamoto, Naoki; Horiguchi, Shigeru; Harada, Ryo; Tsutsumi, Koichiro; Kawamoto, Hirofumi; Okada, Hiroyuki; Yamamoto, Kazuhide

2015-07-01

The treatment of biliary stricture is crucially important for continuing stable chemotherapy for unresectable biliary carcinoma; however, there is no consensus regarding the use of hilar biliary drainage. In this study, we examined the efficacy of endoscopic over 3-branched biliary drainage using self-expandable metallic stents (SEMSs) in patients with unresectable malignant hilar biliary stricture (HBS). A total of 77 patients with unresectable HBS treated with a SEMS and chemotherapy were retrospectively reviewed. There were 59 patients with cholangiocarcinoma and 18 patients with gallbladder carcinoma. The patients were divided into 2 groups (4- or 3-branched group and 2- or 1-branched group) and compared with respect to the duration of stent patency and overall survival. A comparison of the patients' baseline characteristics showed no significant differences between the 4- or 3-branched group and the 2- or 1-branched group. Neither the duration of patency nor survival time exhibited significant differences between the 2 groups, although, among the patients achieving disease control , the duration of patency period and survival time of the 4- or 3-branched group were significantly higher than those observed in the 2- or 1-branched group (P=0.0231 and 0.0466). The use of endoscopic over 3-branched biliary drainage with a SEMS may improve the duration of patency in patients with HBS.

Acute Toxicity and Gastroprotective Role of M. pruriens in Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injuries in Rats

PubMed Central

Hassandarvish, Pouya; Abdul Majid, Nazia; Hadi, A. Hamid A.; Nordin, Noraziah; Abdulla, Mahmood A.

2013-01-01

The investigation was to evaluate gastroprotective effects of ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in rats. Forty-eight rats were divided into 8 groups: negative control, extract control, ulcer control, reference control, and four experimental groups. As a pretreatment, the negative control and the ulcer control groups were orally administered carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The reference control was administered omeprazole orally (20 mg/kg). The ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves was given orally to the extract control group (500 mg/kg) and the experimental groups (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg). After 1 h, CMC was given orally to the negative and the extract control groups. The other groups received absolute ethanol. The rats were sacrificed after 1 h. The ulcer control group exhibited significant mucosal injuries with decreased gastric wall mucus and severe damage to the gastric mucosa. The extract caused upregulation of Hsp70 protein, downregulation of Bax protein, and intense periodic acid schiff uptake of glandular portion of stomach. Gastric mucosal homogenate showed significant antioxidant properties with increase in synthesis of PGE2, while MDA was significantly decreased. The ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves was nontoxic (<5 g/kg) and could enhance defensive mechanisms against hemorrhagic mucosal lesions. PMID:23781513

Effectiveness of Wii-based rehabilitation in stroke: A randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Karasu, Ayça Utkan; Batur, Elif Balevi; Karataş, Gülçin Kaymak

2018-05-08

To investigate the efficacy of Nintendo Wii Fit®-based balance rehabilitation as an adjunc-tive therapy to conventional rehabilitation in stroke patients. During the study period, 70 stroke patients were evaluated. Of these, 23 who met the study criteria were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 12) or the control group (n = 11) by block randomization. Primary outcome measures were Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach Test, Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients, Timed Up and Go Test and Static Balance Index. Secondary outcome measures were postural sway, as assessed with Emed-X, Functional Independence Measure Transfer and Ambulation Scores. An evaluator who was blinded to the groups made assessments immediately before (baseline), immediately after (post-treatment), and 4 weeks after completion of the study (follow-up). Group-time interaction was significant in the Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach Test, anteroposterior and mediolateral centre of pressure displacement with eyes open, anteroposterior centre of pressure displacement with eyes closed, centre of pressure displacement during weight shifting to affected side, to unaffected side and total centre of pressure displacement during weight shifting. Demonstrating significant group-time interaction in those parameters suggests that, while both groups exhibited significant improvement, the experimental group showed greater improvement than the control group. Virtual reality exercises with the Nintendo Wii system could represent a useful adjunctive therapy to traditional treatment to improve static and dynamic balance in stroke patients.

Cytotoxic 2',5'-dihydroxychalcones with unexpected antiangiogenic activity.

PubMed

Nam, Nguyen-Hai; Kim, Yong; You, Young-Jae; Hong, Dong-Ho; Kim, Hwan-Mook; Ahn, Byung-Zun

2003-02-01

A series of 2',5'-dihydroxychalcones were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines and human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVEC). It was found that chalcones with electron-withdrawing substituents on the B ring exhibited potent cytotoxicity against a variety of tumor cell lines while compounds with electron-releasing groups were less potent in general. Those compounds with B ring replaced by extended or heteroaromatic rings exhibited significant bioactivity. Several compounds were shown to have marked cytotoxic selectivity towards HUVECs. Especially, among the synthesized compounds, 2-chloro-2',5'-dihydroxychalcone (2-3) showed the highest selectivity index up to 66 in comparison to HCT116 cells. This compound also exhibited strong inhibitory effects on the HUVEC tube formation in an in vitro model. When administered into BDF1 mice bearing Lewis lung carcinoma cells at 50 mg kg(-1) day(-1), 2-3 was found to inhibit the growth of tumor mass by 60.5%.

Effects of day-length variations on emotional responses towards unfamiliarity in Swiss mice.

PubMed

Kopp, C; Misslin, R; Vogel, E; Rettori, M C; Delagrange, P; Guardiola-Lemaitre, B

1997-11-01

Pineal melatonin secretion occurs at night in all vertebrates and the duration of its secretion is negatively correlated with day length. As an anxiolytic activity of melatonin has been shown in rats and mice, this study examined possible changes of emotional reactivity in response to day length variations in Swiss mice. Three groups of mice were observed in a free-exploratory test: a group submitted to a short-day exposure (6:18 h light-dark cycle) for 2 weeks, a group submitted to a long-day exposure (18:6 h light-dark cycle) for 2 weeks and a control group which was maintained in housing 12:12 h light-dark cycle. The short-day exposed group of mice exhibited significantly fewer attempts to enter into the unfamiliar enclosure, spent significantly more time in it and presented significantly more rears than controls whereas the long-day exposed group of mice made more attempts than controls. These results suggest a decreased emotional level in short-day exposed mice and an increased level in long-day exposed mice. This could be interpreted as confirming the idea of anxiolytic-like properties of melatonin; however, the specific role of this hormone in the changes of anxiety related to day length must be assessed by further measures of potential variations of circulating melatonin.

Effect of Platelet-rich Fibrin on Healing of Apicomarginal Defects: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Dhiman, Meenu; Kumar, Suresh; Duhan, Jigyasa; Sangwan, Pankaj; Tewari, Sanjay

2015-07-01

The purpose of this prospective, randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the healing outcomes of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in periapical surgeries involving apicomarginal defects and to compare these results with surgeries not using any guided tissue regeneration techniques. Thirty patients with suppurative chronic apical periodontitis and apicomarginal communication were randomly assigned to either the PRF or the control group. Clinical and radiographic parameters including pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level, gingival marginal position, size of periapical lesion, and percentage reduction of the periapical radiolucency were recorded at baseline and at an interval of 3 months for a period of 12 months. The overall success rate was 83.33%, with a success rate of 86.66% (13 of 15 teeth) for PRF group and 80% (12 of 15 teeth) for control group. Both the groups exhibited a significant reduction in PD, clinical attachment level, gingival marginal position, and size of periapical lesion at 12-month period. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups for these parameters except PD, which showed a statistically significant reduction in the PRF group (P < .05). The adjunctive use of regenerative techniques may not promote healing of apicomarginal defects of endodontic origin. Copyright © 2015 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Excessive daytime sleepiness in adult patients with ADHD as measured by the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test, an electrophysiologic measure.

PubMed

Bioulac, Stéphanie; Chaufton, Cyril; Taillard, Jacques; Claret, Astrid; Sagaspe, Patricia; Fabrigoule, Colette; Bouvard, Manuel P; Philip, Pierre

2015-07-01

To quantify the objective level of sleepiness in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients and to determine the relationship between excessive daytime sleepiness and simulated driving performance. Forty adult ADHD patients (DSM-IV criteria) and 19 matched healthy control subjects were included between June 30, 2010, and June 19, 2013. All participants completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Manchester Driving Behavior Questionnaire. After nocturnal polysomnography, they performed 2 neuropsychological tests, a 4 × 40-minute Maintenance of Wakefulness Test, and a 1-hour driving session. The primary outcome measure was the mean sleep latency on the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test. ADHD patients were divided into 3 groups defined by their Maintenance of Wakefulness Test scores. Participants (patients and control subjects) were allocated as follows: sleepy ADHD (0-19 min), intermediate ADHD (20-33 min), alert ADHD (34-40 min), and control group (34-40 min). The driving performance outcome was the mean standard deviation of lateral position of the vehicle during the simulated session. The group mean (SD) Epworth Sleepiness Scale score was higher in ADHD patients (12.1 [4.4]) than in controls (6.0 [2.7]) (P < .001). On the basis of the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test scores, 14 patients (35%) were in the sleepy group, 20 (50%) were in the intermediate group, and only 6 (15%) were in the alert group. Sleepy ADHD patients exhibited significantly deteriorated driving performance compared to the other 3 groups (P < .01). Our study shows that a significant proportion of adult ADHD patients exhibit an objective excessive daytime sleepiness, which, in addition, has an impact on simulated driving performance. Excessive daytime sleepiness, therefore, may be a key element needed to better evaluate these ADHD patients. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01160874. © Copyright 2015 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

Disturbed Dreaming and the Instability of Sleep: Altered Nonrapid Eye Movement Sleep Microstructure in Individuals with Frequent Nightmares as Revealed by the Cyclic Alternating Pattern

PubMed Central

Simor, Péter; Bódizs, Róbert; Horváth, Klára; Ferri, Raffaele

2013-01-01

Study Objectives: Nightmares are disturbing mental experiences during sleep that usually result in abrupt awakenings. Frequent nightmares are associated with poor subjective sleep quality, and recent polysomnographic data suggest that nightmare sufferers exhibit impaired sleep continuity during nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. Because disrupted sleep might be related to abnormal arousal processes, the goal of this study was to examine polysomnographic arousal-related activities in a group of nightmare sufferers and a healthy control group. Design: Sleep microstructure analysis was carried out by scoring the cyclic alternating pattern (CAP) in NREM sleep and the arousal index in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep on the second night of the polysomnographic examination. Setting: Hospital-based sleep research laboratory. Participants: There were 17 in the nightmare (NMs) group and 23 in the healthy control (CTLs) group. Interventions: N/A. Measurements and Results: The NMs group exhibited reduced amounts of CAP A1 subtype and increased CAP A2 and A3 subtypes, as well as longer duration of CAP A phases in comparison with CTLs. Moreover, these differences remained significant after controlling for the confounding factors of anxious and depressive symptoms. The absolute number and frequency of REM arousals did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that NREM sleep microstructure is altered during nonsymptomatic nights of nightmares. Disrupted sleep in the NMs group seems to be related to abnormal arousal processes, specifically an imbalance in sleep-promoting and arousing mechanisms during sleep. Citation: Simor P; Bódizs R; Horváth K; Ferri R. Disturbed dreaming and the instability of sleep: altered nonrapid eye movement sleep microstructure in individuals with frequent nightmares as revealed by the cyclic alternating pattern. SLEEP 2013;36(3):413-419. PMID:23449753

Methods for quantitative measurement of tooth wear using the area and volume of virtual model cusps

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Purpose Clinicians must examine tooth wear to make a proper diagnosis. However, qualitative methods of measuring tooth wear have many disadvantages. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate quantitative parameters using the cusp area and volume of virtual dental models. Methods The subjects of this study were the same virtual models that were used in our former study. The same age group classification and new tooth wear index (NTWI) scoring system were also reused. A virtual occlusal plane was generated with the highest cusp points and lowered vertically from 0.2 to 0.8 mm to create offset planes. The area and volume of each cusp was then measured and added together. In addition to the former analysis, the differential features of each cusp were analyzed. Results The scores of the new parameters differentiated the age and NTWI groups better than those analyzed in the former study. The Spearman ρ coefficients between the total area and the area of each cusp also showed higher scores at the levels of 0.6 mm (0.6A) and 0.8A. The mesiolingual cusp (MLC) showed a statistically significant difference (P<0.01) from the other cusps in the paired t-test. Additionally, the MLC exhibited the highest percentage of change at 0.6A in some age and NTWI groups. Regarding the age groups, the MLC showed the highest score in groups 1 and 2. For the NTWI groups, the MLC was not significantly different in groups 3 and 4. These results support the proposal that the lingual cusp exhibits rapid wear because it serves as a functional cusp. Conclusions Although this study has limitations due to its cross-sectional nature, it suggests better quantitative parameters and analytical tools for the characteristics of cusp wear. PMID:29770241

High mobility group box 1 induces the activation of the Janus kinase 2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signaling pathway in pancreatic acinar cells in rats, while AG490 and rapamycin inhibit their activation.

PubMed

Wang, Guoliang; Zhang, Jingchao; Dui, Danhua; Ren, Haoyuan; Liu, Jin

2016-11-10

The pathogenesis of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) remains unclear. The Janus kinase and signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway is important for various cytokines and growth factors. This study investigated the effect of the late inflammatory factor high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) on the activation of JAK2/STAT3 in pancreatic acinar cells and the inhibitory effects of AG490 (a JAK2 inhibitor) and rapamycin (a STAT3 inhibitor) on this pathway. Rat pancreatic acinar cells were randomly divided into the control, HMGB1, AG490, and rapamycin groups. The mRNA levels of JAK2 and STAT3 at 10, 30, 60, and 120 minutes were detected using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The protein levels of JAK2 and STAT3 at 60 and 120 minutes were observed using Western blotting. Compared with the control group, the HMGB1 group exhibited significantly increased levels of JAK2 mRNA at each time point; STAT3 mRNA at 30, 60, and 120 minutes; and JAK2 and STAT3 proteins at 60 and 120 minutes (p < 0.01). Compared with the HMGB1 group, the AG490 and rapamycin groups both exhibited significantly decreased levels of JAK2 mRNA at each time point (p < 0.05); STAT3 mRNA at 30, 60, and 120 minutes (p < 0.01); and JAK2 and STAT3 proteins at 60 and 120 minutes (p < 0.01). HMGB1 induces the activation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in rat pancreatic acinar cells, and this activation can be inhibited by AG490 and rapamycin. The results of this study may provide new insights for the treatment of SAP.

Quantification and statistical significance analysis of group separation in NMR-based metabonomics studies

PubMed Central

Goodpaster, Aaron M.; Kennedy, Michael A.

2015-01-01

Currently, no standard metrics are used to quantify cluster separation in PCA or PLS-DA scores plots for metabonomics studies or to determine if cluster separation is statistically significant. Lack of such measures makes it virtually impossible to compare independent or inter-laboratory studies and can lead to confusion in the metabonomics literature when authors putatively identify metabolites distinguishing classes of samples based on visual and qualitative inspection of scores plots that exhibit marginal separation. While previous papers have addressed quantification of cluster separation in PCA scores plots, none have advocated routine use of a quantitative measure of separation that is supported by a standard and rigorous assessment of whether or not the cluster separation is statistically significant. Here quantification and statistical significance of separation of group centroids in PCA and PLS-DA scores plots are considered. The Mahalanobis distance is used to quantify the distance between group centroids, and the two-sample Hotelling's T2 test is computed for the data, related to an F-statistic, and then an F-test is applied to determine if the cluster separation is statistically significant. We demonstrate the value of this approach using four datasets containing various degrees of separation, ranging from groups that had no apparent visual cluster separation to groups that had no visual cluster overlap. Widespread adoption of such concrete metrics to quantify and evaluate the statistical significance of PCA and PLS-DA cluster separation would help standardize reporting of metabonomics data. PMID:26246647

Effects of a working memory training program in preschoolers with symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

PubMed

Capodieci, Agnese; Gola, Maria Laura; Cornoldi, Cesare; Re, Anna Maria

2018-02-01

Preschoolers with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been found to exhibit impairments on neuropsychological measures of working memory (WM). As WM is an important predictor of future learning abilities, early intervention could help to prevent severe problems. The purpose of this research was to ascertain the efficacy of an intervention for training WM in 5-year-old children with symptoms of ADHD. Thirty-four children with symptoms of ADHD were randomly divided into two groups: One was assigned to the WM training condition, and the other continued normal class activities. The training was provided at school in small groups that also included typically developing children. The trained group showed a significant improvement in tasks measuring their WM and other controlled processes at conclusion of study, whereas no significant improvement was found in the control group. We concluded that early intervention on WM may be effective in children with symptoms of ADHD.

Effects of relaxation on the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction to diphenylcyclopropenone (DCP).

PubMed

Zachariae, R; Jørgensen, M M; Christensen, S; Bjerring, P

1997-07-01

Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions to the experimental allergen diphenylcyclopropenone (DCP) were measured in four groups, which either trained (+) or did not train in relaxation (-) during the sensitization and/or the challenge phase. All groups consisted of high and low hypnotic susceptible subjects. While there were no differences in erythema, the mean induration of the group which trained in relaxation in both the sensitization and the challenge phase (+/+) was significantly greater than that of the group which trained in relaxation in the challenge phase only (-/+). Significant correlations were found between induration and hypnotic susceptibility scores, and between induration and degree of perceived relaxation during challenge. High hypnotic susceptible subjects experienced a higher degree of perceived relaxation and exhibited greater indurative and erythematous DTH reactions to DCP than low hypnotic susceptible subjects in all four experimental conditions. Though the mediating mechanisms remain unclear, our results suggest that relaxation may affect the DTH reaction, and support previous findings of higher psychophysiologic reactivity of high hypnotic susceptible subjects.

The effect of OK-432 (Picibanil) injection on the histopathology of nasal turbinate.

PubMed

Sengul, S; Kaygusuz, I; Akin, M M; Yalcin, Ş; Karlidag, T; Keles, E; Arslan, I

2015-12-01

This study aimed to assess the histopathological effect of OK-432 (Picibanil) on rabbit nasal turbinates. A total of 21 rabbits were divided into 3 treatment groups and various parts of both nasal turbinates were injected with 0.5 ml OK-432, 0.2 ml OK-432 or 0.6 ml saline (control). Bilateral nasal turbinates were later excised and studied under light microscopy to assess any histopathological changes. Animals in the 0.2 ml and 0.5 ml OK-432 groups exhibited mild ciliary loss, goblet cell loss and epithelial damage, and a marked increase in inflammatory cell infiltration, submucosal vascularisation and fibrosis. There was a significant difference in histopathological changes between the two OK-432 treated groups. In addition, each OK-432 treated group had significantly more inflammatory cell infiltration, increased submucosal vascularisation and fibrosis compared with controls. The marked fibrosis observed in OK-432-injected turbinates may be responsible for a reduction in turbinate size.

The ginseng's fireness is associated with the lowering activity of liver Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase.

PubMed

Xu, Xu; Dou, Deqiang

2016-08-22

Ginseng is an herbal medicine used worldwide that possesses a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, its side effects are rarely discussed. The experience of Chinese medicine has revealed that taking ginseng at a high dose chronically can cause fireness, i.e., the ginseng-abuse syndrome. Here, we explored the mechanism of ginseng's fireness by comparing the energy metabolism of mice affected by red ginseng (RG), ginseng (GS), ginseng leaves (GL) and American ginseng (AG), which exhibit different drug properties according to the theory of TCM. KM mice were randomly divided into five groups (n≥30 per group) and administered distilled water or drugs, respectively. Mice receiving RG, GS, or GL received 4.5g/(kgday), while the mice receiving AG received 3g/(kgday). Control mice received distilled water. The duration of exposure for all groups was 31 days. The mice's physical characteristics, such as eye condition, rectal temperature, saliva secretion, urine, stool weight, blood coagulation time and swimming time, were measured at different times after administration. Energy metabolism indexes were measured via TSE phenoMaster/LabMaster animal monitoring system, including the mice' 24h oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), heat production (H) and energy expenditure (EE). Biochemical indices were measured by ultraviolet spectrophotometer and microplate reader, including pyruvic acid content in serum and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity and the content of glycogen in the liver tissue. After 31 days of drug administration, mice in the RG and GS groups exhibited obviously more eye secretions, less saliva secretion and less urine. Compared with the control group, the swimming times of mice in the GS, AG and GL groups were significantly prolonged; the clotting time of mice in the GL was extended significantly; VCO2, H and EE of mice in the GS group were obviously increased; Pyruvate content of mice in the RG group showed an initial decrease followed by an increase; SDH activity of mice in the AG and GL groups was significantly inhibited; LDH activity of the mice showed no significant difference among different groups; Na(+)-K(+)-ATP enzyme activity of the RG and GS groups showed up-regulation initially and then down-regulation; the content of hepatic glycogen of mice in the GS and GL groups increased significantly. The results demonstrated that RG and GS with their warm drug nature could enhance the body's energy metabolism to produce their dryness to the body. The liver Na(+)-K(+)-ATP enzyme activity may be the primary index for indicating the fireness of ginseng. In addition, our results demonstrated that ginseng, especially red ginseng, is not suitable for long time application with a higher dose. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A randomized, controlled comparison between arnica and steroids in the management of postrhinoplasty ecchymosis and edema.

PubMed

Totonchi, Ali; Guyuron, Bahman

2007-07-01

Both arnica and corticosteroids have been suggested for reducing the postoperative edema and bruising associated with rhinoplasty. This study compared the efficacy of these products following rhinoplasty. Forty-eight primary rhinoplasty patients were randomized into three groups: group P received 10 mg of dexamethasone (intravenously) intraoperatively followed by a 6-day oral tapering dose of methyl-prednisone; group A received arnica three times a day for 4 days; and group C received neither agent and served as the control. Three blinded panelists rated the extent of ecchymosis, the intensity of the ecchymosis, and the severity of the edema. On postoperative day 2, there were no significant differences in the ratings of extent and intensity of ecchymosis among the groups. There was a significant difference for the edema rating (p < 0.0001), with group C demonstrating more swelling compared with groups A and P. In addition, on postoperative day 8, group P demonstrated a significantly larger extent of ecchymosis (p < 0.05) and higher intensity of ecchymosis (p < 0.01) compared with groups A and C. There were no differences in the magnitude of edema by postoperative day 8 among the three groups. When the differences between day 2 and day 8 ratings were considered, groups A and C exhibited significantly more resolution of ecchymosis by day 8 compared with group P (p < 0.05). This study suggests that both arnica and corticosteroids may be effective in reducing edema during the early postoperative period. Arnica does not appear to provide any benefit with regard to extent and intensity of ecchymosis. The delay in resolution of ecchymosis for patients receiving corticosteroids may outweigh the benefit of reducing edema during the early postoperative period.

Elevated expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 in dorsal root ganglia of rats with endometriosis

PubMed Central

Lian, Yu-Ling; Cheng, Ming-Jun; Zhang, Xian-Xia; Wang, Li

2017-01-01

Pain is the most pronounced complaint of women with endometriosis, however the underlying mechanism is still poorly understood. In the present study, the authors evaluate the effect of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) on endometriosis-associated pain. A total of 36 SD rats were randomly divided into a sham group (n=9) and a Model group (n=27), accepted auto-transplanted pieces of fat or uterus to the pelvic cavity. At 4 weeks, the Model group was randomly subdivided into the following groups: ENDO group (no treatment, n=9), BCTC group (Model + BCTC, an antagonist of TRPV1, n=9), Vehicle group (Model + cyclodextrin, the vehicle of BCTC, n=9). Tail-flick test was performed prior to surgery, 1 h prior to and following treatment of BCTC or cyclodextrin. The expression of TRPV1, substance P (SP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in L1-L6 DRG was measured via immunohistochemistry, western blotting and RT-qPCR. The results indicated that the Model group exhibited a significant decrease in tail flick latency compared to pre-surgical baseline, and the expression of TRPV1, SP, CGRP protein and mRNA in L1-L6 DRG significantly increased compared to the sham group. BCTC significantly improved tail flick latency, and downregulated the expression of TRPV1, SP and CGRP protein and mRNA levels in L1-L6 DRG compared to ENDO group. However, there were no significant differences of those in Vehicle group compared with the ENDO group. Taken together, the current study provides evidence that TRPV1 expressed in DRG may serve an important role in endometriosis-associated pain. PMID:28627595

Three-dimensional analysis of postoperative returning movement of perioperative condylar displacement after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy for mandibular setback with different fixation methods.

PubMed

Han, Jeong Joon; Hwang, Soon Jung

2015-11-01

This study aimed to evaluate postoperative returning movement of perioperative condylar displacement after bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO) depending on a fixation method using three-dimensional (3D) analysis of computed tomography (CT). Twenty-five mandibular prognathic patients (50 condyles) who underwent orthognathic surgery with BSSRO were divided into three groups depending on the fixation method, which consisted of miniplate only (Group A), combined with single bicortical screw (Group B), or with more than one bicortical screw (Group C). CT data taken before, immediately after, and 3 to 6 months after surgery were analyzed. The condyle exhibited mainly lateral bodily displacement and inward and inferior rotation immediately after surgery. The amount of perioperative lateral displacement of the condyle increased according to the increasing number of fixation screws, but the mean displacements were not significantly different among the three groups. During the postoperative follow-up period, the amount of medial returning of the condyle was 102.2% of the intraoperative lateral displacement in Group A. In contrast, Group B and C exhibited partial returning movement by 71.3% and 38.9% of cases, respectively. In conclusion, stronger rigid internal fixation in orthognathic surgery using BSSRO is associated with reduced flexibility of postoperative functional adjustment of displaced condyle to the preoperative condylar position. Copyright © 2015 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intramolecular interactions of L-phenylalanine revealed by inner shell chemical shift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganesan, Aravindhan; Wang, Feng

2009-07-01

Intramolecular interactions of the functional groups, carboxylic acid, amino, and phenyl in L-phenylalanine have been revealed through inner shell chemical shift. The chemical shift and electronic structures are studied using its derivatives, 2-phenethylamine (PEA) and 3-phenylpropionic acid (PPA), through substitutions of the functional groups on the chiral carbon Cα, i.e., carboxylic acid (-COOH) and amino (-NH2) groups. Inner shell ionization spectra of L-phenylalanine are simulated using density functional theory based B3LYP/TZVP and LB94/et-pVQZ models, which achieve excellent agreement with the most recently available synchrotron sourced x-ray photoemission spectroscopy of L-phenylalanine (Elettra, Italy). The present study reveals insight into behavior of the peptide bond (CO-NH) through chemical shift of the C1-Cα-Cβ(-Cγ) chain and intramolecular interactions with phenyl. It is found that the chemical shift of the carbonyl C1(=O) site exhibits an apparently redshift (smaller energy) when interacting with the phenyl aromatic group. Removal of the amino group (-NH2) from L-phenylalanine (which forms PPA) brings this energy on C1 close to that in L-alanine (δ <0.01 eV). Chemical environment of Cα and Cβ exhibits more significant differences in L-alanine than in the aromatic species, indicating that the phenyl group indeed affects the peptide bond in the amino acid fragment. No direct evidences are found that the carbonyl acid and amino group interact with the phenyl ring through conventional hydrogen bonds.

The radioprotective effects of Moringa oleifera against mobile phone electromagnetic radiation-induced infertility in rats.

PubMed

Bin-Meferij, Mashael Mohammed; El-Kott, Attalla Farag

2015-01-01

The present study has investigated the effects of mobile phone electromagnetic radiation (EMR) on fertility in rats. The purpose of this study was to explore the capability of polyphenolic-rich Moringa oleifera leaf extract in protecting rat testis against EMR-induced impairments based on evaluation of sperm count, viability, motility, sperm cell morphology, anti-oxidants (SOD & CAT), oxidative stress marker, testis tissue histopathology and PCNA immunohistochemistry. The sample consisted of sixty male Wistar rats which were divided into four equal groups. The first group (the control) received only standard diet while the second group was supplemented daily and for eight weeks with 200 mg/kg aqueous extract of Moringa leaves. The third group was exposed to 900 MHz fields for one hour a day and for (7) days a week. As for the fourth group, it was exposed to mobile phone radiation and received the Moringa extract. The results showed that the EMR treated group exhibited a significantly decrease sperm parameters. Furthermore, concurrent exposure to EMR and treated with MOE significantly enhanced the sperm parameters. However, histological results in EMR group showed irregular seminiferous tubules, few spermatogonia, giant multinucleated cells, degenerated spermatozoa and the number of Leydig cells was significantly reduced. PCNA labeling indices were significant in EMR group versus the control group. Also, EMR affects spermatogenesis and causes to apoptosis due to the heat and other stress-related EMR in testis tissue. This study concludes that chronic exposure to EMR marked testicular injury which can be prevented by Moringa oleifera leaf extract.

The radioprotective effects of Moringa oleifera against mobile phone electromagnetic radiation-induced infertility in rats

PubMed Central

Bin-Meferij, Mashael Mohammed; El-kott, Attalla Farag

2015-01-01

The present study has investigated the effects of mobile phone electromagnetic radiation (EMR) on fertility in rats. The purpose of this study was to explore the capability of polyphenolic-rich Moringa oleifera leaf extract in protecting rat testis against EMR-induced impairments based on evaluation of sperm count, viability, motility, sperm cell morphology, anti-oxidants (SOD & CAT), oxidative stress marker, testis tissue histopathology and PCNA immunohistochemistry. The sample consisted of sixty male Wistar rats which were divided into four equal groups. The first group (the control) received only standard diet while the second group was supplemented daily and for eight weeks with 200 mg/kg aqueous extract of Moringa leaves. The third group was exposed to 900 MHz fields for one hour a day and for (7) days a week. As for the fourth group, it was exposed to mobile phone radiation and received the Moringa extract. The results showed that the EMR treated group exhibited a significantly decrease sperm parameters. Furthermore, concurrent exposure to EMR and treated with MOE significantly enhanced the sperm parameters. However, histological results in EMR group showed irregular seminiferous tubules, few spermatogonia, giant multinucleated cells, degenerated spermatozoa and the number of Leydig cells was significantly reduced. PCNA labeling indices were significant in EMR group versus the control group. Also, EMR affects spermatogenesis and causes to apoptosis due to the heat and other stress-related EMR in testis tissue. This study concludes that chronic exposure to EMR marked testicular injury which can be prevented by Moringa oleifera leaf extract. PMID:26550159

Mechanisms of Gastroprotective Effects of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Jasminum sambac against HCl/Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats

PubMed Central

AlRashdi, Ahmed S.; Salama, Suzy M.; Alkiyumi, Salim S.; Abdulla, Mahmood A.; Hadi, A. Hamid A.; Abdelwahab, Siddig I.; Taha, Manal M.; Hussiani, Jamal; Asykin, Nur

2012-01-01

Jasminum sambac is used in folk medicine as the treatment of many diseases. The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of ethanolic extracts of J. sambac leaves against acidified ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Seven groups of rats were orally pre-treated with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as normal group, CMC as ulcer group, 20 mg/kg of omeprazole as positive group, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of extract as the experimental groups, respectively. An hour later, CMC was given orally to normal group and acidified ethanol solution was given orally to the ulcer control, positive control, and the experimental groups. The rats were sacrificed after an hour later. Acidity of gastric content, the gastric wall mucus, ulcer areas, and histology and immunohistochemistry of the gastric wall were assessed. Gastric homogenates were determined for prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), andmalondialdehyde (MDA) content. Ulcer group exhibited significantly severe mucosal injury as compared with omeprazole or extract which shows significant protection towards gastric mucosal injury the plant promotes ulcer protection as it shows significant reduction of ulcer area grossly, and histology showed marked reduction of edema and leucocytes infiltration of submucosal layer compared with ulcer group. Immunohistochemistry showed overexpression of Hsp70 protein and downexpression of Bax protein in rats pretreated with extract. Significant increased in the pH, mucus of gastric content and high levels of PGE2, SOD and reduced amount of MDA was observed. PMID:22550543

The antifertility effectiveness of copper/low-density polyethylene nanocomposite and its influence on the endometrial environment in rats.

PubMed

Liu, He-Fang; Liu, Zi-Long; Xie, Chang-Sheng; Yu, Jing; Zhu, Chang-Hong

2007-02-01

The study was conducted to investigate the antifertility effectiveness of copper/low-density polyethylene nanocomposite (nano-Cu/LDPE) and its influence on the endometrial environment in rats. One hundred and seventy sexually mature female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: sham-operated control group (SO group, n=10), bulk copper group (Cu group, n=40), LDPE group (n=40), and nano-Cu/LDPE groups I (n=40) and II (n=40). Twenty rats in each group except for the SO group were mated with male rats of proven fertility, from 30 days after insertion, and the antifertility rates (ATs) were observed at Day 11 of pregnancy. The concentrations of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in the endometrium of the remaining rats in each group were measured by using ELISA at the 30th and 60th day after insertion, respectively. ATs in the Cu group and nano-Cu/LDPE groups I and II (100%) were significantly higher than those in the LDPE group (p<.05). Compared with those in the SO group, the concentrations of PGE(2) and tPA in all experimental groups except for PGE(2) levels in the LDPE group were significantly increased at Day 30 after insertion, and these parameters in the nano-Cu/LDPE groups were significantly lower than in the Cu group (p<.05). At Day 60 after insertion, tPA levels were still higher in the Cu and nano-Cu/LDPE groups, but there was no difference in PGE(2) levels in all groups except for the Cu group. Nano-Cu/LDPE exhibits satisfactory contraceptive efficacy with less influence on the endometrium PGE(2) and tPA levels.

Hypothermia induced by adenosine 5'-monophosphate attenuates injury in an L-arginine-induced acute pancreatitis rat model.

PubMed

Wang, Yunlong; Guo, Weiting; Li, Yuan; Pan, Xinting; Lv, Wenshan; Cui, Lingling; Li, Changgui; Wang, Yangang; Yan, Shengli; Zhang, Jidong; Liu, Bin

2014-04-01

This study sought to investigate the effects of hypothermia induced by adenosine 5'-monophosphate (5'-AMP) on L-arginine (L-Arg)-induced acute pancreatitis in rats. The rats were divided into four groups: the control group, the acute pancreatitis group, the 5'-AMP pretreatment group, and the 5'-AMP posttreatment group. Rats in all groups, except for the control group, received two injections of 2.5 g/kg body weight (intraperitoneally) L-Arg, with an interval of 1 h between the injections. Subsequently, the rats were observed to assess whether hypothermia induced by 5'-AMP could effectively inhibit inflammation associated with L-Arg-induced acute pancreatitis in rats. Hypothermia induced by 5'-AMP produced protective effects in our acute pancreatitis model. These effects exhibited the following manifestations: (i) a significant reduction in rat mortality rates; (ii) a significant decrease in the occurrence of pancreatic edema; (iii) significant reductions in serum amylase (P < 0.001), interleukin-6 (P < 0.001), interleukin-1β (P < 0.001) and tumor necrosis factor-α (P < 0.001); (iv) the significant inhibition of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation in rats that were pre- and posttreated with 5'-AMP compared with rats that were only injected with L-Arg; and (v) significant decreases in the occurrence of pancreatic interstitial edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, hemorrhage, and acinar cell necrosis. Hypothermia induced by 5'-AMP could inhibit the acute inflammatory reaction and NF-κB activation associated with acute pancreatitis. © 2013 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Expression pattern of aquaporins in patients with primary nephrotic syndrome with edema

PubMed Central

WANG, YU; BU, JIMEI; ZHANG, QING; CHEN, KAI; ZHANG, JIHONG; BAO, XIAORONG

2015-01-01

The association between the expression of aquaporins (AQPs) in kidney tissues and the occurrence of edema in nephrotic syndrome (NS) remains unclear. The current study aimed to investigate this association. A total of 54 patients with primary glomerular disease, diagnosed by renal biopsy, were divided into three groups: Control, NS without edema and NS with edema. The expression of AQP1, AQP2, AQP3 and AQP4 in kidney tissues from these patients was assessed using immunohistochemistry, and urinary AQP concentrations were quantified by ELISA. Comparison of the three groups was conducted using one way analysis of variance, independent samples t-test or the Chi-square test. AQP1 was strongly expressed in the proximal tubules. The proportion of the AQP1-positive area in kidney tissues from patients with NS with edema was significantly reduced, in comparison with the other two groups. By contrast, the proportion of the AQP2-positive area in the NS with edema group was significantly higher than that of the other two groups; significant differences were also observed between the control and NS without edema groups for this parameter. Urinary AQP2 concentrations in patients with NS (with and without edema) were significantly higher than that of the control group, and exhibited a significant positive correlation with kidney tissue AQP2 concentrations. The present study demonstrated the abnormal expression pattern of AQP1-AQP4 in the kidney tissues of patients with NS, providing a basis for an improved understanding of the role of AQP in the pathogenesis of NS. PMID:26261083

The evolution of embryonic patterning mechanisms in animals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wray, G. A.

2000-01-01

Animals exhibit an enormous diversity of life cycles and larval morphologies. The developmental basis for this diversity is not well understood. It is clear, however, that mechanisms of pattern formation in early embryos differ significantly among and within groups of animals. These differences show surprisingly little correlation with phylogenetic relationships; instead, many are correlated with ecological factors, such as changes in life histories. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities of Musa balbisiana Colla. in Type 1 diabetic rats.

PubMed

Borah, Mukundam; Das, Swarnamoni

2017-01-01

To evaluate the antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities of the ethanolic extracts of the flowers and inflorescence stalk of Musa balbisiana Colla. in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Type 1 diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in male Wistar albino rats (150-200 g) by single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (60 mg/kg b.w. i.p.). Albino rats ( n = 25) were divided into five groups, of which five animals each. Group A (normal control) and Group B (diabetic control) received normal saline (10 ml/kg/day p.o.), whereas Group C and Group D received 250 mg/kg/day p.o. of flower and inflorescence stalk ethanolic extracts, respectively, for 2 weeks. Group E (diabetic standard) received 6 U/kg/day s.c of Neutral Protamine Hagedorn insulin. Fasting blood sugar, serum insulin, catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and serum lipid profile were estimated at specific intervals of time. Effect of the extracts on intestinal glucose absorption was also evaluated to know the probable mechanism of action. Diabetic control exhibited significant increase in blood glucose, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, serum MDA levels and decreased serum CAT, and high-density lipoprotein levels which were significantly reverted by flower and inflorescence stalk ethanolic extracts after 2 weeks. Serum insulin levels were in increased ( P < 0.05), and intestinal glucose absorption decreased significantly ( P < 0.01) in extract-treated groups. Flower and inflorescence stalk of M. balbisiana Colla. possess significant antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities in STZ-induced Type 1 diabetic rats.

Metabolic effects of perinatal asphyxia in the rat cerebral cortex.

PubMed

Souza, Samir Khal; Martins, Tiago Leal; Ferreira, Gustavo Dias; Vinagre, Anapaula Sommer; Silva, Roselis Silveira Martins da; Frizzo, Marcos Emilio

2013-03-01

We reported previously that intrauterine asphyxia acutely affects the rat hippocampus. For this reason, the early effects of this injury were studied in the cerebral cortex, immediately after hysterectomy (acute condition) or following a recovery period at normoxia (recovery condition). Lactacidemia and glycemia were determined, as well as glycogen levels in the muscle, liver and cortex. Cortical tissue was also used to assay the ATP levels and glutamate uptake. Asphyxiated pups exhibited bluish coloring, loss of movement, sporadic gasping and hypertonia. However, the appearance of the controls and asphyxiated pups was similar at the end of the recovery period. Lactacidemia and glycemia were significantly increased by asphyxia in both the acute and recovery conditions. Concerning muscle and hepatic glycogen, the control group showed significantly higher levels than the asphyxic group in the acute condition and when compared with groups of the recovery period. In the recovery condition, the control and asphyxic groups showed similar glycogen levels. However, in the cortex, the control groups showed significantly higher glycogen levels than the asphyxic group, in both the acute and recovery conditions. In the cortical tissue, asphyxia reduced ATP levels by 70 % in the acute condition, but these levels increased significantly in asphyxic pups after the recovery period. Asphyxia did not affect glutamate transport in the cortex of both groups. Our results suggest that the cortex uses different energy resources to restore ATP after an asphyxia episode followed by a reperfusion period. This strategy could sustain the activity of essential energy-dependent mechanisms.

A High-Fructose-High-Coconut Oil Diet Induces Dysregulating Expressions of Hippocampal Leptin and Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase, and Spatial Memory Deficits in Rats

PubMed Central

Lin, Ching-I; Shen, Chu-Fu; Hsu, Tsui-Han; Lin, Shyh-Hsiang

2017-01-01

We investigated the effects of high-fructose-high-fat diets with different fat compositions on metabolic parameters, hippocampal-dependent cognitive function, and brain leptin (as well as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) mRNA expressions). Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, a control group (n = 8), a high-fructose soybean oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12), and a high-fructose coconut oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12) for 20 weeks. By the end of the study, the coconut oil group exhibited significantly higher serum fasting glucose, fructosamine, insulin, leptin, and triglyceride levels compared to those of the control and soybean oil groups. However, hippocampal leptin expression and leptin receptor mRNA levels were significantly lower, while SCD1 mRNA was significantly higher in rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet than in rats fed the other experimental diets. In addition, the coconut oil group spent significantly less time in the target quadrant on the probe test in the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet for 20 weeks were prone to develop hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. These metabolic consequences may contribute to hippocampal-dependent memory impairment, accompanied by a lower central leptin level, and a higher SCD1 gene expression in the brain. PMID:28621759

A High-Fructose-High-Coconut Oil Diet Induces Dysregulating Expressions of Hippocampal Leptin and Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase, and Spatial Memory Deficits in Rats.

PubMed

Lin, Ching-I; Shen, Chu-Fu; Hsu, Tsui-Han; Lin, Shyh-Hsiang

2017-06-16

We investigated the effects of high-fructose-high-fat diets with different fat compositions on metabolic parameters, hippocampal-dependent cognitive function, and brain leptin (as well as stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1) mRNA expressions). Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups, a control group ( n = 8), a high-fructose soybean oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12), and a high-fructose coconut oil group (37.5% of fat calories, n = 12) for 20 weeks. By the end of the study, the coconut oil group exhibited significantly higher serum fasting glucose, fructosamine, insulin, leptin, and triglyceride levels compared to those of the control and soybean oil groups. However, hippocampal leptin expression and leptin receptor mRNA levels were significantly lower, while SCD1 mRNA was significantly higher in rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet than in rats fed the other experimental diets. In addition, the coconut oil group spent significantly less time in the target quadrant on the probe test in the Morris water maze (MWM) task. Rats fed the high-fructose-high-coconut oil diet for 20 weeks were prone to develop hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. These metabolic consequences may contribute to hippocampal-dependent memory impairment, accompanied by a lower central leptin level, and a higher SCD1 gene expression in the brain.

Influence of gender and types of sports training on QT variables in young elite athletes.

PubMed

Omiya, Kazuto; Sekizuka, Hiromitsu; Kida, Keisuke; Suzuki, Kengo; Akashi, Yoshihiro J; Ohba, Haruo; Musha, Haruki

2014-01-01

Influence of gender and sports training on QT variables such as QT interval and dispersion (QT dispersion: QTD) in young elite athletes were evaluated. Subjects included 104 male and 97 female Japanese elite athletes (mean age 21.6 years). Sports included basketball, fencing, gymnastics, judo, swimming, tennis, track and field and volleyball. Age-matched healthy non-athletes (32 men and 20 women) were enrolled as controls. QT measurements were manually obtained from a 12-lead resting electrocardiogram and QTD was calculated as the difference between the longest and shortest QT intervals. A corrected QT interval (QTc) was obtained using Bazett's formula. Subjects were divided into two groups; an endurance training group and a static training group on the basis of their training types. Maximum and minimum QTc were significantly longer in female athletes than in male athletes (max: 414.2 vs. 404.5 ms, min: 375.1 vs. 359.2 ms, p<0.0001 respectively), whereas QTc dispersion (QTcD) was shorter in female athletes than in male athletes (39.2 vs. 45.3 ms, p<0.0001). QTcD was significantly shorter in female athletes than in the female control group (39.2 vs. 45.2 ms, p<0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was observed between male athletes and the male control group. Male gymnasts exhibited significantly longer QTcD than the control group (p<0.01), but female gymnasts had significantly shorter QTcD than the control group (p<0.05). Maximum QTc intervals were prolonged in the male static training group compared with non-athletes, and QTcDs in the static training group were prolonged compared with the endurance training group. However, no significant difference was observed in the female group. In conclusion, both gender and different characteristics of sports training may affect QT variables even in young elite athletes. Vigorous static exercise training may independently prolong QT variables.

Ex vivo fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary central incisors restored with fiber-reinforced composite posts and experimental dentin posts

PubMed Central

Kathuria, Ambica; Kavitha, M; Khetarpal, Suchit

2011-01-01

Aim: To compare the fracture resistance of teeth restored with fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) posts and experimental dentin posts milled from human root dentin. Materials and Methods: Thirty maxillary central incisors were divided into three groups of ten each. Twenty teeth were restored with FRC posts and solid dentin posts and numbered as Groups 2 and 3 respectively while Group 1 acted as the control, without any post. The teeth were loaded at 135° angle to their long axes after core build-up and the failure loads were recorded. Results: One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni multiple comparisons revealed a significant difference among test groups with the control group showing the highest fracture resistance, followed by the dentin post group and lastly the FRC post group. Conclusions: Teeth restored with dentin posts exhibited better fracture resistance than those restored with FRC posts. PMID:22144812

Intake of Diet Including 1% Ovomucoid for 4 Weeks Induces Oral Desensitization in Ovomucoid-Specific Allergic Mouse Model.

PubMed

Maeta, Akihiro; Sakamoto, Yoko; Yuki, Sayo; Takahashi, Kyoko

2017-01-01

We propose a new oral immunotherapy (OIT) method that includes a small amount of a food allergen in the diet. However, it is not clear whether this method will induce oral desensitization and immune tolerance. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic effectiveness using a 1% food allergen diet in an allergic mouse model. C3H/HeJ mice were sensitized to ovomucoid (OM) in alum four times at 12-d intervals. Sensitized mice were divided into two groups: the OIT group (19% casein diet with 1% OM) and the non-treated group (20% casein diet without OM). The non-sensitized mice served as the non-allergy group. The OIT treatment was performed for 4 wk. To assess desensitization and immune tolerance, we performed oral and intraperitoneal OM challenges, assessed vascular permeability of the dorsal skin, and measured allergic biomarkers. The OIT group exhibited significantly lower oral symptom scores and vascular permeability than the non-treated group, but the two groups did not differ in intraperitoneal allergy symptom scores. Furthermore, the OIT group had significantly higher OM-specific IgA levels in their plasma than the non-treated group. However, the plasma levels of OM-specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a were not significantly different between the OIT and the non-treated groups. These results suggest that the proposed OIT using an OM-supplemented diet may induce desensitization, but not immune tolerance, in an OM allergic mouse model.

Attentional Bias For Prescription Opioid Cues Among Opioid Dependent Chronic Pain Patients

PubMed Central

Garland, Eric L.; Froeliger, Brett; Passik, Steven D.; Howard, Matthew O.

2012-01-01

Recurrent use of prescription opioid analgesics by chronic pain patients may result in opioid dependence, which involves implicit neurocognitive operations that organize and impel craving states and compulsive drug taking behavior. Prior studies have identified an attentional bias (AB) towards heroin among heroin dependent individuals. The aim of this study was to determine whether opioid-dependent chronic pain patients exhibit an AB towards prescription opioidrelated cues. Opioid-dependent chronic pain patients (n = 32) and a comparison group of non-dependent opioid users with chronic pain (n = 33) completed a dot probe task designed to measure opioid AB. Participants also rated their opioid craving and self-reported arousal associated with opioid-related and neutral images, pain severity, and relief from pain treatments. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant group (opioid-dependent vs. non-dependent opioid user) × presentation duration (200 ms. vs. 2000 ms.) interaction, such that opioid-dependent individuals evidenced a significant AB towards opioid cues presented for 200 ms but not for cues presented for 2000 ms, whereas non-dependent opioid users did not exhibit a significant mean AB at either stimulus duration. Among opioid-dependent individuals, 200 ms opioid AB was significantly associated with opioid craving, while among non-dependent opioid users, 200 ms opioid AB was significantly associated with relief from pain treatments. Furthermore, dependent and non-dependent opioid users experienced opioid cues as significantly more arousing than neutral cues. Opioid dependence among chronic pain patients appears to involve an automatic AB towards opioid-related cues. When coupled with chronic pain, attentional fixation on opioid cues may promote compulsive drug use and addictive behavior. PMID:22968666

Attentional bias for prescription opioid cues among opioid dependent chronic pain patients.

PubMed

Garland, Eric L; Froeliger, Brett E; Passik, Steven D; Howard, Matthew O

2013-12-01

Recurrent use of prescription opioid analgesics by chronic pain patients may result in opioid dependence, which involves implicit neurocognitive operations that organize and impel craving states and compulsive drug taking behavior. Prior studies have identified an attentional bias (AB) towards heroin among heroin dependent individuals. The aim of this study was to determine whether opioid-dependent chronic pain patients exhibit an AB towards prescription opioid-related cues. Opioid-dependent chronic pain patients (n = 32) and a comparison group of non-dependent opioid users with chronic pain (n = 33) completed a dot probe task designed to measure opioid AB. Participants also rated their opioid craving and self-reported arousal associated with opioid-related and neutral images, pain severity, and relief from pain treatments. Repeated-measures ANOVA revealed a significant group (opioid-dependent vs. non-dependent opioid user) × presentation duration (200. vs. 2,000 ms.) interaction, such that opioid-dependent individuals evidenced a significant AB towards opioid cues presented for 200 ms but not for cues presented for 2,000 ms, whereas non-dependent opioid users did not exhibit a significant mean AB at either stimulus duration. Among opioid-dependent individuals, 200 ms opioid AB was significantly associated with opioid craving, while among non-dependent opioid users, 200 ms opioid AB was significantly associated with relief from pain treatments. Furthermore, dependent and non-dependent opioid users experienced opioid cues as significantly more arousing than neutral cues. Opioid dependence among chronic pain patients appears to involve an automatic AB towards opioid-related cues. When coupled with chronic pain, attentional fixation on opioid cues may promote compulsive drug use and addictive behavior.

Outcomes of robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for mid and low rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy and the effect of learning curve

PubMed Central

Huang, Yu-Min; Huang, Yan Jiun; Wei, Po-Li

2017-01-01

Abstract Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer is safe and can accelerate recovery without compromising oncological outcomes. However, such a surgery is technically demanding, limiting its application in nonspecialized centers. The operational features of a robotic system may facilitate overcoming this limitation. Studies have reported the potential advantages of robotic surgery. However, only a few of them have featured the application of this surgery in patients with advanced rectal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (nCRT). From January 2012 to April 2015, after undergoing nCRT, 40 patients with mid or low rectal cancer were operated using the robotic approach at our institution. Another 38 patients who were operated using the conventional laparoscopic approach were matched to patients in the robotic group by sex, age, the body mass index, and procedure. All operations were performed by a single surgical team. The clinicopathological characteristics and short-term outcomes of these patients were compared. To assess the effect of the learning curve on the outcomes, patients in the robotic group were further subdivided into 2 groups according to the sequential order of their procedures, with an equal number of patients in each group. Their outcome measures were compared. The robotic and laparoscopic groups were comparable with regard to pretreatment characteristics, rectal resection type, and pathological examination result. After undergoing nCRT, more patients in the robotic group exhibited clinically advanced diseases. The complication rate was similar between the 2 groups. The operation time and the time to the resumption of a soft diet were significantly prolonged in the robotic group. Further analysis revealed that the difference was mainly observed in the first robotic group. No significant difference was observed between the second robotic and laparoscopic groups. Although the robotic approach may offer potential advantages for rectal surgery, comparable short-term outcomes may be achieved when laparoscopic surgery is performed by experienced surgeons. However, our results suggested a shorter learning curve for robotic surgery for rectal cancer, even in patients who exhibited more advanced disease after undergoing nCRT. PMID:28984767

Early applied electric field stimulation attenuates secondary apoptotic responses and exerts neuroprotective effects in acute spinal cord injury of rats.

PubMed

Zhang, C; Zhang, G; Rong, W; Wang, A; Wu, C; Huo, X

2015-04-16

Injury potential, which refers to a direct current voltage between intact and injured nerve ends, is mainly caused by injury-induced Ca2+ influx. Our previous studies revealed that injury potential increased with the onset and severity of spinal cord injury (SCI), and an application of applied electric field stimulation (EFS) with the cathode distal to the lesion could delay and attenuate injury potential formation. As Ca2+ influx is also considered as a major trigger for secondary injury after SCI, we hypothesize that EFS would protect an injured spinal cord from secondary injury and consequently improve functional and pathological outcomes. In this study, rats were divided into three groups: (1) sham group, laminectomy only; (2) control group, subjected to SCI only; and (3) EFS group, received EFS immediately post-injury with the injury potential modulated to 0±0.5 mV by EFS. Functional recovery of the hind limbs was assessed using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scale. Results revealed that EFS-treated rats exhibited significantly better locomotor function recovery. Luxol fast blue staining was performed to assess the spared myelin area. Immunofluorescence was used to observe the number of myelinated nerve fibers. Ultrastructural analysis was performed to evaluate the size of myelinated nerve fibers. Findings showed that the EFS group rats exhibited significantly less myelin loss and had larger and more myelinated nerve fibers than the control group rats in dorsal corticospinal tract (dCST) 8 weeks after SCI. Furthermore, we found that EFS inhibited the activation of calpain and caspase-3, as well as the expression of Bax, as detected by Western blot analysis. Moreover, EFS decreased cellular apoptosis, as measured by TUNEL, within 4 weeks post-injury. Results suggest that early EFS could significantly reduce spinal cord degeneration and improve functional and historical recovery. Furthermore, these neuroprotective effects may be related to the inhibition of secondary apoptotic responses after SCI. These findings support further investigation of the future clinical application of EFS after SCI. Copyright © 2015 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Relationship between Carotid Atherosclerosis, Inflammatory Cytokines, and Oxidative Stress in Middle-Aged and Elderly Hemodialysis Patients

PubMed Central

Ren, Hongqi; Zhou, Xuan; Luan, Zhiyong; Luo, Xiaomei; Han, Shujing; Cai, Qing; Rui, Wang; Li, Yan

2013-01-01

Objective. To identify the relationship between microinflammation, oxidative stress, and carotid arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients. Methods. The CAS β and PWV obtained by ultrasound technology were used to assess carotid arterial stiffness. We divided the patients into either the CAS group or the non-CAS group based on the presence or absence of CAS. The parameters of ALB, Ca, P, TC, HDL, LDL, TG, glucose, creatinine, and hs-CRP levels were routinely tested in both groups of patients. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and 8-isoprostane F2α were measured by ELISA. Results. A total of 42 patients were enrolled in the CAS group and 20 patients were enrolled in the non-CAS group. No significant differences between the CAS group and the non-CAS group were observed with respect to age, dialysis duration, DBP, BUN, Cr, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, and Hb. However, SBP , pulse pressure, and 8-isoprostane levels of the CAS group were higher than those of the non-CAS group. The hs-CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were elevated in both groups but showed no significant differences. Conclusions. Maintenance of hemodialysis patients exhibits a microinflammatory state that may lead to atherosclerosis. The roles of hypertension and oxidative stress may be more important. PMID:24187620