Treatment Control Group Research Articles

Effect of inspiratory and expiratory muscle training on respiratory function and decannulation outcome in patients with tracheostomy after stroke: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Background This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of inspiratory and expiratory muscle training (IEMT) for patients who underwent tracheostomy after stroke. Methods The study was an investigator-initiated, single-center, two-arm, evaluator-blinded, randomized clinical trial conducted at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, China, from January 2022 to June 2022. The patients were randomly divided into the intervention group and control group. Patients in both groups received conventional clinical, rehabilitation treatment and usual care. The intervention group also received IEMT for three weeks. There were three primary outcomes including maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP, cmH2O), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP, cmH2O) and decannulation outcome after intervention (n, %). The secondary outcomes were other respiratory function outcomes, motor function, activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QoL) and the new pulmonary infection rate after the intervention at three weeks. Results A total of 50 participants were enrolled [25 in each group; 39 (78%) were men; mean (SD) age, 55.94 (11.97) years]. At three weeks, significant differences were found in the MIP [control vs IEMT: 39.04 (6.21) vs 56.28 (10.41), p < 0.001]; MEP [43.48 (5.36) vs 62.16 (10.18), p < 0.001], and tracheal tube extraction success rate [2 (8%) vs 9 (36%), p = 0.019] between the two groups. In addition, the new pulmonary infection rate in the intervention groups were significantly different (all p < 0.05) from those in the control group. Conclusions IEMT can improve respiratory function, decannulation outcome, among patients with tracheostomy after stroke.

Evaluating the effectiveness of the education program developed for the empowerment of new graduate nurses: A randomized controlled trial.

To evaluate the effectiveness of the education program developed based on the structural empowerment (SE) and psychological empowerment (PE) theories and flipped classroom model for the empowerment of new graduate nurses (NGNs). Single-center, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. The study was conducted between June 2021 and September 2023 in two phases: developing the education program to empower NGNs and evaluating its effectiveness. An education program consisting of two parts, online and face-to-face, was developed. The online part consists of eight modules implemented for two weeks. The face-to-face part was implemented for two days and included the in-class activities. NGNs were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n: 32) and control group (n: 32). An education program was applied to the intervention group, whereas the control group continued their routine orientation program. A range of outcome measures of SE, PE, and education programs' effectiveness were evaluated. Data were analyzed using descriptive, chi-squared, and t-tests. The study determined that the intervention and control groups showed homogeneous distribution in the pretest. A statistically significant difference was identified between the intervention and control groups regarding the mean scores of PE and SE three months following the implementation of the education program, and the total mean score of the intervention group was higher. The education program developed to empower NGNs was a highly effective intervention in increasing nurses' perceptions of SE and PE. There is a need to carry out studies and activities to disseminate this program. The findings of this study will guide educators, researchers, and administrators in future strategies and innovative programs for empowering NGNs.

Comparison Effect of Clonidine and Magnesium Sulfate on Bleeding Volume during Septorhinoplasty: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Control of hemodynamic changes and blood loss is a daily challenge in general anesthesia for patients undergoing septorhinoplasty. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of magnesium sulfate and clonidine on the control of hemodynamic factors and bleeding volume during this procedure. Methods: This double-blind, randomized clinical trial study was conducted on 60 patients undergoing septorhinoplasty at 5th Azar Medical &amp; Educational Centre of Gorgan in 2021-2022. Patients were divided into two intervention groups (50 mg/kg of magnesium sulfate) and control group (5 μg/kg of clonidine) with permutation random block allocation. All patients underwent induced hypotension. Before induction of anesthesia and every 5 minutes afterwards, blood pressure was recorded. Blood loss volume was calculated at the end of the surgery. Results: In the magnesium group, 36 individuals were evaluated, while in the clonidine group, 24 individuals were examined. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics of patients in the two groups and the duration of surgery. Both drugs were equally effective in inducing hypotension, however blood pressure changes in magnesium group were more trivial than clonidine group. The bleeding volume in the magnesium sulfate and clonidine groups was 139.44 ml and 141.25, respectively and this difference was not statistically significant (p-value=0.634). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that magnesium sulfate can be effectively used as an alternative to clonidine in controlling hemodynamic changes and ultimately reducing blood loss volume during septorhinoplasty surgery. In addition, magnesium is at least as effective as clonidine in stabilizing hemodynamic changes.

Effect of Oral Screen Training After Stroke-A Randomised Controlled Trial.

To assess the effects of oral screen training in patients with dysphagia post-stroke. Oral screen training has been identified as an effective method for improving orofacial and oropharyngeal motor functions. However, the evidence supporting a positive transfer effect on swallowing capacity post-primary stroke rehabilitation is still unclear. The aim of this randomised controlled trial was to investigate the effect of a 12-week oral screen training programme using a prefabricated oral screen, with swallowing capacity as the primary outcome. In a randomised trial, stroke survivors with residual dysphagia post-rehabilitation were randomised into intervention group (n = 12) and control group (n = 12). The intervention group underwent 12 weeks of oral screen training. The main outcome was swallowing capacity, with lip force as a training indicator. Secondary outcomes were assessed by the Eating Assessment Tool, Masticatory performance, Nordic Orofacial Test-Screening, Life Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System. At the 3-month follow-up, the group that trained with an oral screen showed a significantly greater increase in lip force than the control group (mean lip force increase 10.2 N vs. 3.1 N; p = 0.02). There was no significant improvement in swallowing capacity (mean increase 0.7 mL/min vs. 0.8 mL/min; p = 0.43), or in any of the secondary variables in the intervention group relative to the control group. The findings from this study showed that oral screen training initiated after completion of regular rehabilitation post-stroke can increase lip force. However, there was no indication of any transfer effect on swallowing capacity. Clinicaltrial.gov identifier: NCT03167892.

Teach back educational strategy on knowledge about breast cancer among low health literate women

BackgroundThis randomized controlled trial examines the effectiveness of a “teach-back” educational strategy in increasing knowledge about breast cancer among women with low health literacy.MethodsData collection for this study was conducted at the Farabi Comprehensive Health Services Center in Sanandaj, Iran, between December 2020 and October 2022. In this randomized controlled trial, 84 women who had low health literacy were randomly allocated into groups of the study (teach back, and control groups). The educational intervention focused on increasing knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, early detection methods (including breast self-examination), and the importance of regular screening. The intervention group received 3 face to face education within three weekly sessions, each lasting 20 min. The Health Literacy Instrument for Adults (HELIA), breast cancer knowledge was measured by valid tool and compared in the two groups before and eight weeks after the interventions.ResultsMean scores of breast cancer knowledge revealed significant differences between intervention group and control group (P < 0.001) eight weeks after intervention. There were significant differences between baseline and follow-up measurement scores demonstrating that there were differences in the participants’ breast cancer knowledge (P < 0.001), and diagnosis technique knowledge (P < 0.008), between the intervention and control groups.ConclusionTeach Back educational strategy increased knowledge breast cancer among low health literacy women. Teach Back educational strategy seems to be effective for women with low health literacy.

Co-culture system of breast cancer and normal cells to investigate inflammation: using doxorubicin encapsulated in adipose-derived exosomes.

Doxorubicin (DOX) chemotherapy for breast cancer is an effective treatment option, but it also has disadvantages. Exosomes (EXOs) have safely and successfully transported DOX and reduced its adverse effects; however, its use is still being explored. In this study, a co-culture system of malignant and non-malignant breast cells was used to generate an in vitro model reflecting the in vivo cellular microenvironment, and the effects of this treatment were investigated by examining inflammatory genes. Extracellular matrices (EXOs) were extracted from mesenchymal stem cells derived from human adipose tissue by ultracentrifugation. Later, Western blotting, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy methods were used to examine the properties of the EXO. DOX was encapsulated in the EXOs by sonication and the loading rate was measured by spectrophotometry. In the current study, a co-culture system was used to investigate the cytotoxic effects of free DOX and DOX encapsulated in EXOs (EXO-DOX) on various breast cell lines, including MCF-7, MCF-10A, MDA-MB-231, and A-MSC. Additionally, the expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α) were examined. Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay demonstrated that free DOX showed the highest cytotoxicity against MCF-10A cells, followed by MCF-7 cells. Conversely, EXO-DOX indicated a greater effect on MCF-7 cells and had a lower IC50 compared to MDA-MB-231 cells. Free DOX significantly downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), particularly in MCF-7 and MCF-10A cells, while concurrently upregulating IL-10 expression. EXO-DOX induced a more significant alteration in cytokine expression than the control and free DOX treatment groups. The co-culture system revealed a synergistic effect of free DOX on cancer cells while simultaneously mitigating the toxic effects of DOX on normal cells. This study suggests that EXO-DOX has promising potential as a targeted drug delivery system that could potentially improve therapeutic efficacy and minimize off-target toxicity.

Comprehensive evaluation of Capsosiphon fulvescens water extract: Assessing its effects on intestinal barrier integrity and inflammation in vitro and in vivo

Capsosiphon fulvescens has potential benefits for functionality. However, research on its impact on gut health is limited. In this study, the therapeutic efficacy of Capsosiphon fulvescens water extract (CFW) was investigated, with its intestinal health benefits confirmed in Caco-2 cell and mouse models. In the animal study, 32 male C57BL/6 mice were divided into control, DSS, and CFW treatment groups and treated for 28 days, with DSS given ad libitum in 7 days. Significant improvements in various biomarkers related to intestinal barrier function, including increased transepithelial electrical resistance values and reduced permeability, were observed in vitro model. Moreover, the administration of CFW was associated with improved histological scores and improved levels of TJ proteins and cytokines. The therapeutic efficacy of CFW is believed to be associated with the bioactive compounds found in the extract. The findings here highlight the promising therapeutic potential of CFW for managing inflammatory bowel disease.

Improving Food-Related Inhibitory Control Through an mHealth Intervention-A Secondary Outcome Analysis of an RCT.

Experimental studies reveal that deficits in food-related inhibitory control, rather than general impulsiveness, are closely linked to overweight and obesity. To date, the real-world implications remain unknown, and it is unclear whether these results are supported in the clinical field. To examine the effectiveness of a mobile health (mHealth) intervention with cognitive and behavioral therapeutic elements in altering impulsiveness and food-related inhibitory control. Prespecified secondary outcome analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Participants with overweight/obesity (BMI: M=33.35kg/m2, SD=3.79kg/m2, N=213) were randomly assigned to either a 12-week mHealth intervention (n=116) or wait-list control group (n=97). The Barratt-Impulsiveness-Scale (BIS-15) and the Food-Related Inhibitory Control Scale (FRIS) were administered at baseline (T0) following the intervention (T1), at 9 and 15 month post baseline (T2, T3). Multi-level analyses were calculated. Compared to the control group, the intervention group reported higher food-related inhibitory control on several subscales of the FRIS: In Withholding in Social Situations at T1 (95% CI: 0.06-0.46) and T2 (95%CI: 0.09-0.50), Action Cancellation at T1 (95%CI: 0.05-0.45), Resisting despite Craving at T1 (95% CI: 0.07-0.49), Withstanding Rewarding Food at T2 (95%CI: 0.08-0.55) and Action Withholding at T3 (95% CI: 0.01-0.55). No differences were found for trait impulsiveness (T1: 95%CI: -1.91-0.47; T2: 95%CI: -1.65-0.84; T3: 95%CI: -0.88-1.67). Food-related inhibitory control, rather than global measures of impulsiveness, addresses the critical association between inhibitory control and health-conscious dietary choices and can be improved by mHealth intervention. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04080193.

THE ACUTE EFFECT OF BILATERAL CATHODIC TRANSCRANIAL DIRECT CURRENT STIMULATION ON RESPIRATORY MUSCLE STRENGTH AND ENDURANCE.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive technique with therapeutic potential, especially in respiratory muscle training (RMT) in pathological conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure. To evaluate the effect of bilateral cathodic tDCS on respiratory muscle strength and endurance in healthy young and elderly women. An experimental, randomized study with 80 participants divided into young and old women, subdivided into intervention and sham control groups. The participants were evaluated by spirometry and dynamic muscle strength tests before and after the one session intervention. tDCS was applied with cathode electrodes positioned bilaterally in the motor area. The elderly women in the intervention group showed significant improvement in dynamic inspiratory muscle strength (S-Index) and dominant hand strength, with moderate to large effect sizes. The young women showed a significant increase only in the strength of the dominant hand, with no improvement in inspiratory muscle strength. There were no significant differences in ventilatory parameters, including Maximal Ventilatory Capacity, in any of the age groups. Bilateral cathodic tDCS was effective in increasing dynamic inspiratory muscle strength and dominant hand strength in elderly women, with more pronounced effects compared to young women. The technique did not produce significant changes in maximal ventilatory capacity in any of the age groups, suggesting that the response to tDCS may vary with age, being more beneficial in elderly women.

Anti plasmodial evaluation of the methanol and aqueous extracts of Gnetum africanum in wistar albino mice

The methanol and aqueous extracts of different parts of Gnetum africanum plant were studied for their in vivo anti-plasmodial activity against chloroquine resistant Plasmodium berghei Nk 65 in Swiss albino mice. A four day curative standard test was used employing the rodent malaria parasite, Plasmodium berghei NK 65. The mice were divided into groups. Five mice were used for each of the seven test/treatment groups. The aqueous extract of the stem of Gnetum africanum showed the highest antiplasmodial activity. The extract significantly suppressed the parasite. There was a significant difference (p&lt;0.05) observed when the level of parasitemia of the animals treated with the aqueous extract of the stem bark of Gnetum africanum was compared with the untreated, chloroquine standard control and other treatment groups. The aqueous leaf extract of Gnetum africanum had the lowest suppression on the parasite as none of the animals in this group survived to the end of the 14 days study. In as much as some the animals in the Gnetum africanum stem methanol (4.00±0.00%) and Gnetum africanum leaf methanol (3.20±0.00%) survived till the end of the 14 days study, the parasite load was increasing in both groups, thereby indicating that there was no significant antiplasmodial activity in these groups. Since Gnetum africanum showed good antiplasmodial activity, it is concluded that this plant has potentials in fighting malaria.

Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improve bone regeneration in diabetes mellitus animal model with apical periodontitis

BackgroundPrevious studies revealed diabetes mellitus subjects tend to have persistent apical periodontitis. Regenerative stem cells therapy through endodontic procedure is hoped to be a solution. This study assessed bone regeneration in diabetic rats with apical periodontitis through histopathological analysis of osteoblasts and immunohistochemical analysis of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and Osterix. MethodsDiabetes mellitus and apical periodontitis was induced on 20 rats. Apical periodontitis was induced on mandibular right first molars under anesthesia. The teeth were left open for 7 days following access cavity and pulp extirpation, then the rats’ teeth were endodontically treated and randomly allocated into 4 groups (5 rats per group). The first and second groups was ended at 30 days (C30) and 60 days (C60) and labelled as control. The third and fourth groups was given umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and ended at 30 days (T30) and 60 days (T60). The osteoblasts, Runx2 and Osterix were analyzed. ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests were used for analysis. Differences with p values < 0.05 were considered significant. ResultsThe number of osteoblasts in the apical area in control groups (C30 and C60) and treatment groups (T30 and T60) showed a significant increase (p < 0.05). The expressions of Runx2 and Osterix in osteoblasts showed a significant increase among the control (C30 and C60) and treatment groups (T30 and T60) (p < 0.05). ConclusionUmbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improve bone regeneration in diabetic animal model with apical periodontitis, in terms of osteoblasts, Runx2 and Osterix.

Sex moderates diet quality differences in integrated collaborative care for comorbid obesity and depression: Post-hoc analysis of the RAINBOW RCT

ObjectivesTo investigate (1) whether an evidence-based behavioral weight loss intervention was associated with improved diet quality in adults with obesity and depression compared with usual care; and (2) whether the associations were modified by sex. DesignIn the RAINBOW RCT, 409 participants were randomized in 1:1 ratio to receive a 12-month intervention integrating a Diabetes Prevention Program-based behavioral weight loss treatment with problem-solving therapy for depression (n = 204) or usual care (n = 205). Participants completed 24-h dietary recalls at baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Dietary outcomes included the DASH score as the composite measure of diet quality and its components. Between-group differences in dietary outcomes were examined among all participants and by sex, using repeated-measures mixed-effects linear models. ResultsIntervention group had mean age 50.9 (SD 12.2) years and 71% women, while control had 51.0 (11.9) years and 70% women. Changes in DASH scores did not differ between the intervention and usual care control groups through 24 months in both females and males. Compared with controls, males in the intervention group had decreased nut, seed, and legume intake at 6 (mean difference, −1.1; 95% CI, −1.9, −0.3 servings/day; P = 0.01; Pajd = 0.73) and 12 months (−1.0; −2.0, −0.0 servings/day; P = 0.048; Pajd = 0.73). Compared with controls, females in the intervention group had decreased fruit and vegetable intake at 18 (−1.8; −2.9, −0.6 servings/day; P = 0.002; Pajd = 0.08) and 24 months (−1.1; −2.2, −0.1 servings/day; P = 0.03; Pajd = 0.25), and whole grain intake at 24 months (−0.5; −0.9, −0.1 servings/day; P = 0.03; Pajd = 0.25), but increased percent calories from fat at 24 months (3.6; 0.6, 6.5; P = 0.02; Pajd = 0.25). ConclusionDiet quality not only did not improve in an effective behavioral weight loss intervention but deteriorated in females, in particular. These post-hoc findings warrant confirmation and may suggest sex-tailored behavior change techniques specifically targeting diet quality are needed in behavioral weight loss interventions aside from caloric reductions. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov#NCT02246413 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02246413).

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Glasses on Surgical Fear and Anxiety in Patients Before Open-heart Surgery: A Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial

PurposeFear and anxiety in open-heart surgery patients can adversely affect their physiological well-being and recovery. Although virtual reality glasses (VR-G) have been advanced for preoperative anxiety management, their effectiveness specifically for open-heart surgery patients remains under-researched. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of watching a video through VR-G on surgical fear and anxiety levels of patients undergoing open-heart surgery. DesignA randomized controlled and double-blind study. MethodsIn total, 90 patients were randomly assigned to the VR-G intervention group or control group. On the surgery morning, intervention group patients watched a 360-degree video with nature sounds through VR-G before being transferred to the operating theater. The surgical fear and anxiety levels of the patients were evaluated at three stages using the Surgical Fear Questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale-Anxiety: initial evaluation in the morning, second evaluation before being transferred, and third evaluation in the waiting room of the operating theater. FindingsThe surgical fear level of the intervention group at the third evaluation was significantly lower than the control group (P < .000). There was no significant difference between the anxiety levels of the study groups (P > .05). ConclusionsWatching a 360-degree video with nature sounds through VR-G is an effective intervention in reducing surgical fear levels of patients before undergoing open-heart surgery. Use of VR-G interventions may be a practical and fast-resulting nursing strategy to manage patients’ surgical fear in the preoperative period. RegistrationNCT06165861

Gastrointestinal health anti-diarrheal mixture relieves spleen deficiency-induced diarrhea through regulating gut microbiota.

This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of the gastrointestinal health anti-diarrheal mixture (GHAM) on diarrhea induced by spleen deficiency, focusing on its modulation of gut microbiota. Using specific pathogen-free Wistar rats, a spleen deficiency model was created through senna leaf gavage. Rats were divided into control, model, positive control, and GHAM treatment groups. After a 14-day treatment, fecal samples were analyzed via 16S rDNA sequencing to assess microbiota alterations. GHAM significantly mitigated diarrhea and enhanced food intake and fecal quality. It increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Romboutsia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, and decreased the levels of diarrhea-associated bacteria, such as Prevotellaceae and Bacillus, thereby improving microbiota functionality. GHAM's modulation of gut microbiota structure and function effectively alleviated spleen deficiency-induced diarrhea, positioning it as a potential natural herbal treatment for gastrointestinal ailments. This study lays the groundwork for further exploration of GHAM's regulatory impact on gut health.

Combining internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy and attention bias modification for reducing depressive symptoms in firefighters: a randomized controlled trial.

Firefighters are frequently exposed to traumatic events and stressful environments and are at particularly high risk of depressive symptoms. The present study aimed to examine the impact of a combined internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) and attention bias modification (ABM) intervention to reduce depressive symptoms in firefighters. The study was a randomized controlled trial carried out in Kunming, China, and involved the recruitment of 138 active firefighters as participants. The intervention lasted for an 8-week duration, during which participants participated in ABM exercises on alternating days and concurrently underwent eight modules of iCBT courses delivered through a smartphone application. Baseline and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate the effects of the intervention. Results indicated that the combined iCBT and ABM intervention was significantly effective in reducing symptoms of depression compared with the no intervention control group (U=1644, p<0.001, Wilcoxon r=0.280). No significant change was observed in attention bias post-intervention (U=2460, p=0.737, Wilcoxon r=0.039), while a significant increase was observed in attention-bias variability (U=3172, p<0.001, Wilcoxon r=-0.287). This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of the combined iCBT and ABM intervention in reducing depressive symptoms among firefighters. This study provides conceptual support and preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of the combined iCBT and ABM intervention in reducing depressive symptoms among firefighters.

Effects of immersive and non- immersive virtual reality on anxiety and cognition in Parkinson's disease: A comparative study

IntroductionParkinson's disease (PD) is chronic and progressive, manifested by both motor and non-motor symptoms, such as anxiety. Anxiety occurs in more than 50% of patients. Rehabilitation in PD is more focused on controlling motor symptoms. However, non-motor symptoms affect independence, functionality, and motivation. PurposeThe present study aimed to compare the effects of immersive virtual reality (IVR) and non-immersive virtual reality (NIVR) training on anxiety and cognition in PD patients. MethodsTwo VR devices were used: Nintendo Wii (NIVR) and Samsung Gear VR (IVR). A convenience sample of 60 participants was distributed into 3 groups: a no intervention control group (CG) and two training groups (IVR and NIVR). All were evaluated at the baseline (T1), 7 days after (T7), and 30 days after training (T30). The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Semantic Verbal Fluency test (VF), and Digits subtest in reverse order (DR) were evaluated. The intervention protocol consisted of 10 sessions, each lasting 1 h, twice a week, for 5 weeks. According to the motor and cognitive requirements of games, 4 games were selected for each VR system. The Friedman test was used for comparing groups at different times (P ≤ 0.05). ResultsThe findings revealed a significant decrease in the BAI score in the IVR group (F = 15 217; p < 0.001) between T1 and T7 (and between T1 and T30. No significant differences were found between T7 and T30. No significant differences were found for the cognition variables. ConclusionIVR is a useful and feasible tool for managing anxiety symptoms in patients with PD.

Effect of Biofeedback Combined with Psychotherapy on Functional Constipation Complicated with Anxiety and Depression.

Biofeedback combined with psychotherapy has been recognized as a potential treatment for patients with functional constipation, anxiety and depression disorder. To validate the therapeutic effect of the biofeedback therapy, 120 patients with a clear diagnosis of functional constipation combined with anxiety and depression disorder were recruited, and then randomly divided into the control group (patients received gastrointestinal medication and anti-anxiety and depression medication) and the treatment group (patients received combined biofeedback and psychotherapy on the basis of the control group's treatment program). The treatment group was treated with biofeedback exercise twice a day for 7 days, supplemented with psychotherapy for a period of 2 months (half-month intervals for one time). Intestinal medications in the treatment group were stopped after one month of treatment. While for the control group, patients were maintained with gastrointestinal motivational drugs, probiotics, anti-anxiety and depression medications. Both groups reduced the dosage of anxiolytics and depressants after 3 months. The control and the treatment group were both effective and the latter had a more significant effect compared to the former. Moreover, the anxiety/depression symptom for patients in the treatment group was significantly milder than those in the control group. Notably, compared with pre-treatment symptoms, the treatment group showed a significant reduction in Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) scores in the sixth month (F = 0.008, P = 0.008). In summary, biofeedback combined with psychotherapy may improve relieve constipation patients' clinical symptoms, anxiety/depression state and sleep quality. The treatment is durable, safe, and easy to implement, so it is suitable for widely used.

Mediating role of gut microbiota on Baduanjin for cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

IntroductionThe gut microbiome plays an important role in maintaining both cognitive and physical functions in older adults, and gut dysbiosis is an important pathophysiological mechanism of mild cognitive impairment (MCI)...

Neurprotective Role of Amaranthus Dubius on Penicillin Induced Experimental Epileptic Rat Model by Combating the Multineurotransmitter Deficiency

Objective: The study aims to clarify the protective effects of Amaranthus dubius (AD) in penicillin (PCN)-induced experimental epilepsy models in rats. Method: In this study, twenty-four adult male Wistar albino rats, each weighing between 200-250 grams, were utilized. The rats were allocated into four groups: a control group, an Amaranthus dubius (AD) treated control group, a PCN-induced experimental epileptic rat model group, and an AD pretreated PCN-induced experimental epileptic rat model group. All groups were administered a daily oral dosage of 400 mg/kg body weight of AD aqueous leaf extract for fourteen days via an orogastric cannula. For the experimental epileptic model, PCN was injected into designated areas of the somatosensory cortex. On the concluding fifteenth day, subsequently, the rats were humanely euthanized. Tissue specimens from the cerebral cortex (CC), cerebellum (CB), caudate nucleus (CN), pons and medulla (PM), and midbrain (MB) were extracted, measured, and homogenized to facilitate subsequent biochemical analyses. Result: Pretreatment with AD has demonstrated significant changes in the levels of antioxidants and neurotransmitters in the brain. Conclusion: Amaranthus Dubius aids in combating multi-neurotransmitter deficiencies and enhances the body's antioxidant capabilities.

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LRa05 in the treatment of acute diarrhea in children: a randomized controlled trial.

The goal of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LRa05, as an adjunct to the treatment of acute watery diarrhea in children. Eligible diarrheal children were randomized into intervention group (IG, n = 57) and control group (CG, n = 54), and given probiotics or placebo, respectively. The total duration of diarrhea in the IG (121.4 ± 13.7 h) was significantly shorter than that in the CG (143.9 ± 19.8 h, p < 0.001). More children in the IG showed improvements in diarrhea than those in the CG for both per protocol analysis (70.2 vs. 46.3%, p = 0.01) and intention-to-treat analysis (66.7 vs. 41.7%, p = 0.003). The LL-37 levels in the IG was markedly higher than that in the CG after the intervention (4349.35 ± 1143.86 pg./g vs. 3682.49 ± 869.21 pg./g, p = 0.039). The intervention led to higher abundance of Bifidobacterium longum and lower abundance of Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bacteroides fragilis (p < 0.05). LRa05 treatment upregulated the functional genes of gut microbiota involving immunity regulation. Administration of the Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LRa05 at a dose of 5 × 109 CFU/day to children aged 0-3 years resulted in shorter duration of diarrhea, faster improvement in fecal consistency, and beneficial changes in gut microbiome composition and gene functions. The present study has been approved and registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registration Center with the registration number of ChiCTR2100053700 (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=141082).