Control Group Research Articles

Role of RhoE gene expression changes in myocardial fibrosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy

Objective: To explore the role and mechanism of Ras homolog gene family member E (RhoE) gene in myocardial fibrosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Methods: Wild-type SD rats were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin solution (STZ, 70 mg/kg) and an equal volume of sodium citrate solution to establish the type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) group (n=15) and the T1DM control group (n=15), respectively. db/db spontaneous type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice and wild-type C57BL/6J mice were conventionally housed for 8 weeks to establish the T2DM group (n=5) and the T2DM control group (n=5), respectively. Heterozygote SD rats with systemic knockout of the RhoE gene were intraperitoneally injected with STZ solution (70 mg/kg) and an equal volume of sodium citrate solution to establish the RhoE knockout T1DM group (n=5) and the RhoE knockout control group (n=5), respectively. Wild-type SD rats were injected with RhoE-overexpressing adeno-associated virus 9 through tail vein and intraperitoneally injected with STZ solution (70 mg/kg) to establish the RhoE overexpression T1DM group (n=5), while wild-type SD rats injected with negative control virus through tail vein and intraperitoneally injected with an equal volume of sodium citrate solution served as the RhoE overexpression control group (n=5). After successful modeling, all animals in each group were conventionally housed for an additional 6 or 8 weeks, which marked the experimental endpoint. At the experimental endpoint, echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac function of animals in each group, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and the ratio of early to late diastolic transmitral flow velocity (E/A ratio) were analysed. Masson staining was used to detect collagen fiber deposition in myocardial tissue of animals in each group. Western blot analysis was conducted to detect the expression levels of RhoE gene, type Ⅰ collagen, type Ⅲ collagen, Smad2/3, and phosphorylated Smad2/3 protein in myocardial tissue of rats. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the levels of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in serum of rats. Results: Compared with their respective control groups, the expression of RhoE in the heart tissues of mice in the T2DM group and rats in the T1DM group was significantly downregulated, and the deposition of collagen fibers was more significant (P<0.05), and LVEF and E/A ratio were lower (all P<0.05). Compared with the T1DM group, the phosphorylation level of Smad2/3、the levels of type Ⅰ collagen and type Ⅲ collagen in myocardial tissue and the level of TGF-β1 in serum were higher in the RhoE knockout T1DM group (all P<0.05). Additionally, rats in the RhoE overexpression T1DM group had higher LVEF and E/A ratios (both P<0.05) and less collagen fiber deposition (P<0.05) compared with the T1DM group. Conclusions: Myocardial fibrosis induced by diabetes mellitus activates TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway by inhibiting RhoE gene expression. Myocardial targeting overexpression of the RhoE mediated by adeno-associated virus 9 can alleviate myocardial fibrosis and improve cardiac function in rats with diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Mental Health Integrated Emergency Preparedness for the Public School Workforce

ABSTRACT Public schools in the United States must prepare for acts of violence and other emergencies. This study focuses on the development, implementation and evaluation of a mental health integrated emergency preparedness intervention for the public-school workforce, emphasizing psychological preparedness, peer support and shared leadership. Consultation with 64 teachers and staff in six school districts and observation of lockdown drills informed the development of a half-day training implemented in one large school district. A total of 479 members of the school workforce engaged with the training in six schools, with 173 completing both Time 1 and 2 surveys. The intervention group improved on psychological preparedness, peer support, and shared leadership, while there were no changes in the matched control group. Comparing change scores between groups, psychological preparedness was the most robust outcome. This research emphasizes the value of mental health integrated approaches to emergency preparedness.

Sea cucumber phytochemical compounds consumed after maximal weight training intervention significantly influence the increased range of motion in healthy men

Abstract This study aims to analyze whether sea cucumber supplementation after weight training can increase ROM in healthy men. This experimental research employs a pre- and post-test control group design. Subjects were selected using a purposive sampling technique and divided into two groups: K1 (placebo) and K2 (sea cucumber supplementation, 500 mg). The supplementation was administered in capsule form. A total of 20 healthy men aged 20–25 years participated in the study. Data collection was conducted over three days, beginning with the collection of subject characteristics. Subsequently, the subjects performed a warm-up, followed by physical exercise. The training session involved weight training performed to exhaustion at maximum intensity. Twenty-four hours after the weight training intervention, baseline ROM data was collected. Then, subjects were administered either a placebo or sea cucumber supplementation. Another ROM measurement was conducted 24 hours later. The results showed that 500 mg of sea cucumber supplementation taken 24 hours after weight training significantly increased ROM in healthy men (p &lt; 0.05*). Moreover, a significant ROM increase was also observed in the control group (p &lt; 0.05*). It can be concluded that 500 mg of sea cucumber supplementation 24 hours post-weight training effectively enhances ROM in healthy individuals. However, further laboratory studies on biomarkers associated with ROM are necessary to provide valid biochemical data. Regarding the control group’s significant ROM increase, it is possible that recovery processes had already begun within 48 hours, suggesting that participants may have naturally recovered within that time frame. Nevertheless, further laboratory investigations of biomarkers related to ROM are needed to ensure valid research data based on biochemical analyses. Key words sea cucumber, weight training, range of motion

Effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on balance and risk of fall in patients with stroke

Abstract Background. Balance refers to the ability to achieve and maintain a state of equilibrium where all acting forces neutralize one another and equal zero. It plays a crucial role in community ambulation and gait performance after a stroke. Post-stroke balance impairment predisposes individuals to falls, leading to negative consequences such as fall-induced injuries (including fractures), an increased fear of falling, depression, social isolation, and even death. Purpose. To investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on balance and risk of falls in stroke patients. Subjects &amp; Methods: Thirty chronic stroke patients, both male and female, aged 45–60 years, participated in this study. Participants were randomly allocated into two equal groups: the study group and the control group. The study group (GI) received active tDCS in combination with selected physical therapy exercises, while the control group (GII) received sham tDCS and the same physical therapy exercises. Balance was assessed using the Biodex Balance System (Biodex-BS) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), while the risk of falls was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and the Fall Efficacy Scale (FES). All outcome measures were evaluated for each patient before and after a four-week program, consisting of three sessions per week. Results. There was a significant improvement in all measured variables (overall stability index, overall dynamic limit of stability, BBS, TUG, and FES) in the study group compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion. tDCS effectively enhances balance and reduces the risk of falls in individuals post-stroke. Key words balance, risk of falls, tDCS, stroke

Effects of yoga interventions on cardiac autonomic function in patients with diabetes: a randomized controlled study

Background. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition often accompanied by autonomic neuropathy and reduced heart rate variability (HRV), which is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Yoga has shown promise as a non-pharmacological intervention to improve autonomic function in various populations. Objectives. The primary objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of a 12-week yoga intervention on cardiac autonomic function, as measured by HRV parameters, in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods. Ninety adults with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to either a yoga intervention group (n = 45) or a control group (n = 45). The yoga group participated in a 60-minute yoga session three times per week for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their usual care. Short-term HRV was assessed at baseline and post-intervention using time-domain (SDNN, RMSSD, pNN50) and frequency-domain (LF, HF, LF/HF ratio) parameters. Additional cardiometabolic risk factors were also evaluated. Results. The yoga group demonstrated significant improvements in time-domain HRV parameters, including mean RR, mean HR, SDNN, RMSSD, and pNN50 (p &lt; 0.05). In the frequency domain, the yoga group showed a significant increase in HF power (p = 0.03) and reductions in LF power (p = 0.02) and LF/HF ratio (p = 0.04), suggesting enhanced parasympathetic activity and better autonomic balance. The control group showed a decline in SDNN and pNN50 over the study period. Conclusions. A 12-week yoga program significantly improved cardiac autonomic function in individuals with type 2 diabetes, as demonstrated by positive shifts in both time-domain and frequency-domain HRV measures. These results indicate that yoga could serve as a helpful complementary approach to standard diabetes treatment, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues by enhancing autonomic regulation.

Sport massage vs cupping: which one is more effective in improving blood oxygen level and reducing lactic acid?

Athletes often face challenges in maintaining optimal blood oxygen levels and reducing lactic acid levels after intense exercise, which can affect their performance and recovery. Existing approaches are often not effective enough in addressing these issues, so innovative strategies that are more efficient are needed. This study aimed to explore the impact of sport massage and dry cupping on blood oxygen levels and lactic acid levels in athletes performing submaximal exercise. The study used a quasi-experimental design involving 45 randomly selected volleyball athletes aged 15–24 years. The participants were divided into three groups: a sport massage group, a dry cupping group, and a control group that received conventional treatment without sport massage or cupping intervention. Data collection procedures included a standardized intensive training session for all athletes before the start of the intervention, the administration of sport massage and cupping to the intervention groups after the training session, and the measurement of blood oxygen levels and lactic acid levels before, during, and after the intensive training session. Measurements were made using a pulse oximeter and a lactic acid meter to obtain accurate data. Data were analyzed using the statistical approach of analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess differences between the three groups. The results showed a significant difference between the sport massage and cupping groups compared to the control group, with Sig. &lt; 0.05. The mean increase in oxygen levels was higher in the sport massage and cupping groups (F = 5.42, Sig. = 0.008) than in the control, indicating the effectiveness of both methods in increasing post-exercise oxygen levels. For lactic acid, there was a significant decrease in the sport massage and cupping groups (F = 4.82, Sig. = 0.013), with a greater average decrease compared to the control. These findings suggest that both recovery methods are effective in accelerating athletes' physical recovery after intensive training.

Effects of emotional labor on emotional memory: the moderating role of emotional tolerance levels

ABSTRACT This study investigates emotional labor’s influence on hotel employees’ emotional memory, focusing on their tolerance levels. We invited 603 participants interning at hotels to participate in a four-wave survey, which revealed two distinct groups: Emotional Labor Susceptibility (ELS) and Emotional Labor Resilience (ELR). From this cohort, we selected participants for a recognition task, comprising 52 subjects from the ELS group, 67 from the ELR group, and 40 from a control group of subjects in the same institution who had no prior hotel internship experience. Emotional pictures for the experiment were obtained from the Chinese Affective Picture System. We utilized a mixed experimental design featuring 3 (categories of emotional images: positive, neutral, negative) × 3 (groups of hotel employees: ELS, ELR, control group). The findings reveal that emotional labor differently impacts emotional memory among individuals with different emotional labor tolerances. Specifically, individuals with low emotional labor tolerance experience a decline in emotional memory, whereas no such decline is observed in individuals with high emotional labor tolerance.

Effectiveness of game-based activity on postural sway and balance among elderly population

Introduction. Balance decreases with age, and factors influencing balance can increase postural sway and displace the center of pressure. Reduced physical activity is a significant problem that contributes to impaired balance and an increased risk of falling in the elderly population. Routine exercise programs are often challenging in improving balance, whereas game-based activity can be more engaging and motivating for older adults. Game-based training using the Balance Postural Sway System (BPSS) was applied in this study to reduce postural sway and therapeutically improve balance. Methods. This interventional study was conducted on 51 elderly adults who met the inclusion criteria. The intervention group (n = 26) underwent game-based activity with BPSS, while the control group (n = 25) received conventional balance training. The BPSS parameters used included the center of foot pressure X index (COFPXI) and Y index (COFPYI), which indicate the center of foot pressure with lateral sway and anterior-posterior sway, respectively. The left and right toe-heel values denote weight distribution between the toe and heel. The outcome measures used were the Fall Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Results. The paired t-test showed a significant difference in all BPSS parameters—COFPXI, COFPYI, right toe, BBS, and FES-I—except for the left toe-heel in the intervention group. In contrast, the conventional group showed a significant difference only in BPSS COFPYI, FES-I, and BBS (p &lt; 0.05). The unpaired t-test demonstrated that the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in all balance parameters of BPSS and FES-I (p &lt; 0.05) than the conventional group, except for BBS. Conclusion. Game-based activity with BPSS has been shown to reduce postural sway, improve pressure distribution on the foot, enhance balance, and decrease the risk of falls in the elderly population. The results suggest that incorporating such game-based activities into routine exercise programs for older adults can effectively improve balance and reduce fall risk.

Selection of soybean genotypes exhibiting drought resistance by assessing morphological and yield traits

Drought stress significantly impacts soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) productivity, making selecting drought-resistant genotypes a critical focus for breeding programs. This study aims to select drought tolerance levels in various soybean genotypes by evaluating key morphological and yield factors. In this study, four different irrigation levels were applied in 2023 and 2024: irrigation stopped at the flowering stage (T1), pod-setting stage (T2), and pod-filling stage (T3), along with a control group (T0) that received regular irrigation. Through field experiments under controlled water stress conditions, we analyzed plant growth parameters and yield such as first pod height, plant height, number of branches, number of pods, seed yield, and 1000-seed weight. The first treatment (T1) at the flowering stage showed higher drought tolerance among the genotypes, likely because the plants had more time to activate their drought response mechanisms. However, the pod-setting stage (T2) was identified as the most sensitive to drought stress, leading to more significant yield reductions. The primary effect at the pod filling (T3) stage was the reduced seed size with wrinkles on the seed surface, which led to a decrease in 1000-seed weight and seed yield per plant despite having a slight difference in seed count per plant compared to control. These highlight the critical nature of the pod-setting stage in soybean cultivation under water-limited conditions. Despite facing a shorter drought than the flowering stage, sensitivity toward drought was the highest in the pod setting stage. Plant height and the number of branches had no significant impact on yield in this study. While T1 resulted in the shortest plants, seed yield and 1000-seed weight were lowest in T2 due to the high sensitivity of plants at that critical growth phase. A comprehensive analysis of data from both years showed that the G7 variety exhibited the highest level of tolerance under water-limited conditions. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating drought-tolerant traits in breeding programs to ensure the sustainability of soybean production in water-limited environments.

Effects of 12 weeks of yoga practice on depression, stress, anxiety, and sleep quality in mothers of adolescents

Background. Maternal mental health is essential for maintaining family stability and promoting adolescent growth. Mothers experience difficulties in combining emotional support with independence, underlining the need for interventions that address their mental well-being. Research objective. The purpose of this study is to fill a research gap by examining the effects of a long-term yoga intervention on psychological measures and sleep quality in mothers of adolescent children. Methods. Forty mothers of adolescent children participated in a randomized controlled study that measured their depression, stress, anxiety, and sleep quality both before and after the intervention program. Results. Based on statistical analysis, an independent t-test showed that no significant differences were observed between the groups in the baseline assessment. A paired t-test showed that the yoga group exhibited significant improvements: depression (p &lt; 0.001) with a 31.06% reduction, stress (p &lt; 0.001) with a 50.63% reduction, anxiety (p &lt; 0.001) with a 17.79% reduction, and sleep quality (p &lt; 0.001) with a 31.32% improvement. In contrast, the control group showed no significant changes in depression (p = 0.19), stress (p = 0.43), anxiety (p = 0.34), or sleep quality (p = 0.67). Conclusions. This study concludes that a long-term yoga intervention significantly improves mental health in mothers of adolescents, reducing depression, stress, and anxiety while enhancing sleep quality. This study emphasizes the need to implement targeted mental health programs globally by addressing the complex interaction of emotional health and family dynamics.

Predictive factors of distal pedicle screw loosening followed posterior corrective surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis

IntroductionTo explore incidence and predictive factors for distal pedicle screw loosening (DPSL) followed posterior corrective surgery for degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS).MethodsThe diagnostic criteria for DPSL developed by X-ray including radiolucent area around screw and “double halo” sign. According to occurrence of DPSL at two-year follow-up, 153 patients were divided into two groups: study group (screw loosening) and control group (without screw loosening). To investigate predictive factors for DPSL, three categorized factors including general data, surgical data and radiological data were analyzed statistically.ResultsDPSL was detected in 72 patients at two-year follow up (study group). Hounsfield unit (HU) value was lower in study group than that in control group. Fusion level was longer in study group than that in control group. Lower instrumented vertebrae on L5 was less in study group than that in control group. Posterolateral fusion was less in study group than that in control group. Preoperative Cobb angle, postoperative Cobb angle, Cobb angle correction, preoperative lumbosacral coronal angle (LSCA), LSCA correction, preoperative thoracolumbar junction (TL), postoperative TL were larger in study group than those in control group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that low Bone mineral density (BMD) (< 169 HU), posterolateral fusion, Cobb angle correction (> 16 degrees), LSCA correction (> 9 degrees) were independently associated with DPSL.ConclusionsThe incidence of DPSL following posterior decompression and instrumented fusion for DLS is 47.1%. Low BMD, large correction of both main curve and fractional curve are predictive factors for DPSL, posterolateral fusion is a protective factor.

The effect of recreational games on happiness, life satisfaction, loneliness, and somatisation in elderly individuals: a non-randomized controlled trial

BackgroundParticipation in recreational activities supports continuity of activity and psychological well-being in old age. Games are one of these recreational activities. This study aims to measure the influence of recreational games on somatisation, loneliness, happiness and life satisfaction among elderly individuals.MethodsThis non-randomized quasi-experimental study involved 80 individuals from two nursing homes, allocated to intervention (n = 40) and control (n = 40) groups. Participants, aged 65 or older, met cognitive eligibility criteria based on the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination. The intervention group selected 4 games (hot-and-cold, word challenge, bingo, matching pairs) from a set of 15 and played twice weekly for two months in smaller groups. The control group maintained their usual leisure activities. Data were collected using the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire Short Form, Satisfaction with Life Scale, De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, and Symptom Checklist-90-Revised Somatization Subscale at baseline, 1 week, and 1 month post-intervention.ResultsThe intervention group (IG) showed significant improvements compared to the control group (CG). Happiness (η² = 0.93) and life satisfaction (η² = 0.92) increased significantly in the IG (p < 0.0001), with higher scores than the CG in both the post-test (r ≈ -0.246 to -0.212, p < 0.05) and follow-up (r ≈ -0.273 to -0.309, p < 0.01). Loneliness, including emotional and social loneliness, decreased significantly in the IG (η² = 0.94, p < 0.0001), with greater reductions than the CG in the post-test and follow-up (r ≈ -0.503 to -0.593, p < 0.0001). Somatization did not change significantly within the IG but showed a reduction compared to the CG in the post-test and follow-up (r ≈ -0.226 to -0.280, p < 0.05).ConclusionsRecreational games may give psychological benefits to older adults. Yet, results of the study need to be interpreted with caution and need to be replicated.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06505070 (retrospectively registered, Protocol ID: Duzce-U-merve0003, Last Update Posted: 2024-08-02). https://ctv.veeva.com/study/the-effect-of-recreational-games-on-happiness-life-satisfaction-loneliness-and-somatisation-in-el?comeFrom=study-search.

Perioperative analgesic effect of preemptive ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block and transversus abdominis plane block with dexmedetomidine versus dexamethasone for laparoscopic surgery in paediatrics: A randomised trial.

We aimed to assess the impact of the rectus sheath and transversus abdominis plane blocks on postoperative pain alleviation and recovery in children undergoing laparoscopic appendicectomies. Ninety patients got a transversus abdominis plane block and rectus sheath block and were randomly divided into three groups. Each patient had taken 2.5ml of 0.5% bupivacaine (1.25mg/kg). Group 1: 0.3mg/kg of dexamethasone was added to the bupivacaine. Group 2: 1μg/kg of dexmedetomidine was added to the bupivacaine. Group 3: received only bupivacaine. We recorded analgesic usage overall, postoperative pain score, time until initial analgesic use, side effects and satisfaction score. The dexmedetomidine group had a significantly longer mean time to initial rescue analgesia (13.13 ± 2.81) compared to the control and dexamethasone groups (11.6 ± 2.99, 7.27 ± 2; p < 0.001). Within the first 24 hours following surgery, the dexmedetomidine group consumed considerably less rescue analgesia (490.5 ± 129) than the dexamethasone and control groups (556 ± 210.4, 811.5 ± 333.9; p < 0.0001). With better satisfaction, fewer analgesics were taken, and fewer side effects and lower postoperative pain levels were observed in the dexmedetomidine group. Dexmedetomidine in combined transversus abdominis plane and rectus sheath blocks can enhance postoperative pain relief, decrease analgesic use and hasten postoperative recovery.

The impact of cognitive behavioral therapy on disease uncertainty, stressful life events, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy: a quasi-experimental study

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on disease uncertainty and stressful life events in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study enrolled 90 glioma patients from Sanmenxia Central Hospital between January and December 2021. Patients were divided into an intervention group (n = 45) or a control group (n = 45). The intervention group received cognitive behavioral therapy provided by nurses, while the control group received routine nursing care. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the Mishel uncertainty in illness scale (MUIS), life events scale (LES), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), and quality of life scale (WHOQOL-BREF).ResultsAfter four cycles of chemotherapy, the study group demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in MUIS and LES scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The study group showed significantly lower SAS and SDS scores than the control group (p < 0.05). Finally, the study group reported significantly higher WHOQOL-BREF scores than the control group (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe study revealed that the group that received CBT showed significant improvements in the psychological well-being of glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy. These findings suggest that incorporating CBT into standard nursing care can effectively improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of glioma patients during chemotherapy.

Disinfection Effect on Surface Properties of Prosthodontic Polymer Impression Materials: An In Vitro Study

This study was conducted to evaluate the surface roughness, shore hardness, and dimensional accuracy of commercially obtainable Prosthodontic polymer impression material in terms of imbibition after immersion in two different media and without disinfection. This in vitro study was designed to investigate the surface properties of polymer impression materials before and after disinfection by immersion. Materials with different consistencies (alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid), condensation silicone (putty), and addition silicone (putty) impression materials) were investigated. The tested null hypothesis was the fact that there would be no significant differences in surface properties among these Prosthodontic polymer impression materials. Two disinfecting agents, Zeta 7 solution and ASEPTOPRINT, were used to assess the surface roughness, hardness, and dimensional accuracy of the impression material. The weights of the discs of the Prosthodontic polymer impression material samples were measured before and immediately after immersion to determine if there was a change in the properties of the material. study was conducted at the Advanced Medical Polymer Group in the Libyan Polymer Research Center to evaluate the surface properties of prosthodontic polymer impression materials. Data analysis included mean, standard deviation, and One-way ANOVA calculations. The study showed that the surface properties of dental polymer impression materials were affected by disinfection methods. Specifically, for alginate material, there were significant differences in surface properties between the control group (before immersion) and after immersion in zeta 7 solution and ASEPTOPRINT spray. However, for addition silicone (putty), there was a significant difference in surface properties between the control group and after immersion in zeta 7 solution, while immersion in spray did not show a significant difference. For condensation silicone (putty) material, there were significant differences in surface properties between the control group and after immersion in both zeta 7 solution and ASEPTOPRINT spray. The study concluded that disinfection methods can affect the surface properties of dental polymer impression materials.

Effectiveness of a theory-based educational intervention on enhancing milk donation behavior: a cluster randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study aims to assess the impact of an educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) on breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control regarding donor human milk (DHM), intention to donate milk and milk donation behavior.MethodThis cluster randomized controlled trial (CRT) was performed on 67 breastfeeding mothers (intervention, n = 33; control, n = 34) in health centers affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) from April 2023 to October 2023. Four weekly 60-min educational sessions were conducted based on the TPB through lectures, group discussions, psychodrama method, videos and pictures display for mothers in the intervention group, while the control group received only routine care. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire based on the TPB. It assessed breastfeeding mothers' knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control regarding milk donation, intention to donate milk, and actual milk donation behavior. The questionnaire was completed by participants in both groups before, immediately and three months after the intervention.ResultsThe findings indicated that both the intervention and control groups were similar in terms of demographic and obstetrics variables. Additionally, before the intervention, there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding knowledge (P = 0.552), attitude (P = 0.734), subjective norms (P = 0.813), perceived behavioral control (P = 0.453), intention to donate milk (P=0.476) and actual milk donation behavior (P = 0.105). However, the intervention group showed significant improvements in the mean score of noted variables immediately and three months after the intervention (P < 0.05). Moreover, regarding the frequency of milk donations, three months after the intervention, eight mothers in the intervention group had donated milk, whereas none of the mothers in the control group had done so (P = 0.002).ConclusionOur findings showed that the TPB-based educational intervention significantly enhanced milk donation behavior among breastfeeding mothers. Given that donor mothers are crucial for the establishment and sustainability of human milk banks (HMBs), such programs should be implemented to increase milk donation rates and support the development of HMBs.Trial registrationirct.ir (IRCT20230124057203N1) registered February 14, 2023.

Mitochondria derived from Stem cells modulated the biological behavior of monocyte-macrophages and inhibited inflammatory bone resorption

BackgroundThe transfer of mitochondria from stem cells effectively attenuates the viability of inflammatory cells. However, there is a paucity of research supporting the inhibitory effect of stem cells on inflammatory bone resorption through mitochondrial transfer.MethodsMouse bone resorption models were established to investigate the impact of stem cell-derived mitochondria. Stem cells, stem cell-derived mitochondria and exosomes were injected into the animal models for experimental research. Healthy mice and mice with bone resorption were included as the control groups. The mitochondrial transfer and bone resorption of mice calvaria were evaluated by immunofluorescence, gross morphology, micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), immunohistochemical staining. Monocyte-macrophages were incubated with stem cell-derived mitochondria as experimental group. Monocyte-macrophages and activated monocyte-macrophages cultured separately served as the control groups. The mitochondrial transfer and biological behavior of monocyte-macrophages were evaluated by immunofluorescence, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Multiskan FC, and histochemical staining.ResultsStem cell-derived mitochondria were successfully transferred to monocyte-macrophages. In vivo, local injection of stem cells, mitochondria, and exosomes effectively mitigated inflammatory cell infiltration, suppressed osteoclast maturation, and demonstrated a higher relative bone volume in mouse bone resorption models compared to the negative control group. In vitro, the co-incubation of mitochondria effectively suppressed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, proliferation, fusion, and osteoclastogenesis in monocyte-macrophages compared to the control groups.ConclusionsThe modulation of monocyte-macrophages biological behaviors by stem cells may occur through the transfer of mitochondria, thereby mitigating inflammatory bone resorption.

The impact of N-acetylcysteine on early periods of tendon healing: histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and biomechanical analysis in a rat model.

This study aimed to evaluate the early effects of N-acetylcysteine, which has antioxidant, inflame-modulatory, and cytoprotective properties, on tendon healing. Thirty-five male Wistar Hannover rats were divided into five groups: first-week treatment (Group 1T), first-week control (Group 1C), third-week treatment (Group 3T), third-week control (Group 3C), and native tendons (Group N). Bilateral Achilles tenotomy was performed on all rats except Group N. After tenotomy, 150 mg/kg N-acetylcysteine was administered daily intraperitoneally to treatment groups, while isotonic saline was given to the control groups. Tendons were evaluated histopathologically, immunohistochemically, and biomechanically after sacrifice in the first and third weeks. No significant differences were observed in the first week (p > 0.05). Movin and Bonar scores (lower scores reflect improved histologic healing) were significantly lower in Group 3T than in Group 3C (p = 0.002). Collagen type-I/type-III ratios were higher in Group 3T compared to Group 3C (p = 0.001). Fmax (N) values were similar across Group 3T, Group 3C, and Group N (p = 0.772). However, cross-sectional areas (mm2) were significantly smaller in Group 3T than in Group 3C (p = 0.001), with the smallest areas observed in native tendons. Thus, tensile strength (MPa, load per unit area) and toughness (J/103mm3, energy absorbed per unit volume) were significantly higher in Group 3T than in Group 3C (p = 0.001). N-acetylcysteine supplied some improved results on early markers of tendon healing. Although our findings support the potential of NAC as a therapeutic adjunct in tendon injuries, further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effects and underlying mechanisms.

Evaluating the effect of caudal epidural block on optic nerve sheath diameter in pediatric patients: randomized controlled study

IntroductionCaudal epidural block is a widely performed procedure for postoperative pain control of pediatric patients. As the local anesthetic acts by spreading cranially after caudal block, it may lead to several effects on the cerebrospinal fluid and intracranial region.MethodChildren aged 1–7, ASA I-II were included in this study. The patient population was assigned into two groups as the Caudal Block Group (Group CB) and the Control Group (Group C) Caudal block with 0.25% bupivacaine 1 ml/kg was performed on patients in Group CB. Optic nerve sheath diameter was measured at the following timeline: T0: Following laryngeal mask placement, T1: Following caudal block. T15:15. min, T30:30. min. Heart rate, non-invasive blood pressure, SpO2 and PCO2 values were also recorded at every time point.ResultsThere was no significant difference between two groups considering demographic data, intraoperative hemodynamic parameters, intraoperative SpO2 and PCO2 values. While optic nerve sheath diameter findings were not significantly different between the groups at T0 and T1 points(P > 0.05), the measurements at T15(4.18 ± 0.56 for Group C and 4.62 ± 0.47 for Group CB, P = 0.006) and T30(4.20 ± 0.53 for Group C and 4.76 ± 0.52 for Group CB) were statistically higher in the Caudal Group.ConclusionEvaluation of optic nerve sheath diameter has high diagnostic precision for detecting increased intracranial pressure in children. The findings in this study display that local anesthetic applied for caudal block in pediatric surgeries spread cranially resulting in an increase in the intracranial pressure and optic nerve sheath diameter. However, this increase does not cause intraoperative hemodynamic changes.

Enhancing prosthetic vision by upgrade of a subretinal photovoltaic implant in situ

In patients with atrophic age-related macular degeneration, subretinal photovoltaic implant (PRIMA) provided visual acuity up to 20/440, matching its 100 µm pixels size. Next-generation implants with smaller pixels should significantly improve the acuity. This study in rats evaluates removal of a subretinal implant, replacement with a newer device, and the resulting grating acuity in-vivo. Six weeks after the initial implantation with planar and 3-dimensional devices, the retina was re-detached, and the devices were successfully removed. Histology demonstrated a preserved inner nuclear layer. Re-implantation of new devices into the same location demonstrated retinal re-attachment to a new implant. New devices with 22 µm pixels increased the grating acuity from the 100 µm capability of PRIMA implants to 28 µm, reaching the limit of natural resolution in rats. Reimplanted devices exhibited the same stimulation threshold as for the first implantation of the same implants in a control group. This study demonstrates the feasibility of safely upgrading the subretinal photovoltaic implants to improve prosthetic visual acuity.