Sensory Disorders Research Articles

Empowering impaired learners: Technological advancements in higher education

Background Sensory impairments, such as visual impairment, deafblindness, deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), muteness, and Sensory Processing Disorder, present significant challenges for students in higher education. These challenges include difficulties in accessing information, participating in discussions, and adapting to academic environments. Objective This review aims to explore advancements in assistive technology that support sensory-impaired individuals in higher education and identify existing gaps in accessibility, usability, and educator preparedness, aligning with (UNSDG) (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals) 4’s goal of inclusive lifelong education by 2030. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review of 68 studies focussing on technological solutions such as assistive devices, adaptive learning platforms, and communication tools designed to enhance accessibility and inclusion in academic settings. Results While various assistive technologies have improved access, disparities in resource availability across institutions persist. Many educators lack adequate training to effectively integrate these technologies, and infrastructure limitations further hinder their use. Conclusions The findings underscore the need for further research to address accessibility gaps and improve educator training. By enhancing the adoption of assistive technologies, higher education institutions can create more inclusive learning environments, ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of sensory impairments.

Faktor-Faktor Yang Berhubungan Dengan Peran Keluarga Dalam Merawat Pasien Halusinasi di Poliklinik Rumah Sakit Jiwa dr. Samsi Jacobalis Daerah Provinsi Kepulauan Bangka Belitung Tahun 2024

The role of the family is very important for people with mental disorders, one of which is in patients with sensory perception disorders: Hallucinations, because the family is the closest and most important person to optimize mental peace for people with mental disorders. The aim of this research is to find out what factors are related to the role of the family in treating hallucinatory patients at the Regional Mental Hospital Polyclinic, Dr. Samsi Jacobalis Bangka Belitung Islands Province in 2024. This research is quantitative research with a cross- sectional approach. The samples in this study were families of people with mental disorders who were recorded and registered as visiting the Polyclinic at the Regional Mental Hospital, dr. Samsi Jacobalis of Bangka Belitung Islands Province as many as 56 people. The results of this study concluded that the factors related to family roles were knowledge p-value (0.031), and the more dominant factors were family attitudes p-value 0.031 and POR 3.800. The conclusion of this research is that knowledge and attitudes are related to the role of the family in caring for hallucinatory patients at the Regional Mental Hospital Polyclinic, Dr. Samsi Jacobalis Bangka Belitung Islands Province in 2024. The suggestion from this research is that it is hoped that the results of this research will be used as literature and a reference to improve counseling and increase knowledge through education in the community from an early age about the importance of the role of the family in people with mental disorders who experience hallucinations because they really need the role and helping hand of the family.

Association between subtypes of diabetes and special sensations: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study.

Diabetes, a chronic condition affecting millions of individuals, is divided into type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), each with unique pathophysiological characteristics. While the impact of diabetes on vision is established, its relationship with other special senses, balance, hearing, and olfaction, remains uncertain. This study utilized a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to investigate the associations between diabetes subtypes and specific sensory disorders. We performed MR analysis using various methods (inverse variance weighting [IVW], MR-Egger, simple mode, weighted mode, weighted median, MR-PRESSO) to assess the causal relationships between diabetes subtypes and sensory disorders (vestibular dysfunction, sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, and olfactory dysfunction). Different diabetes genome-wide association studies datasets were utilized for validation. MR analysis revealed no significant correlations between T1D or T2D and the sensory disorders studied. Interestingly, an initial signal suggested that T1D might increase the risk of conductive hearing loss (IVW: odds ratio = 1.120, 95% CI: 1.035-1.211, P = .005), but this finding was not supported by validation studies. No evidence of horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity was found (P > .05). Our MR analysis and subsequent validation revealed no significant associations between diabetes subtypes and special senses. The initial suggestion of an increased risk of conductive hearing loss in T1D patients was not confirmed. Future research should further explore the intricate relationships among diabetes, sensory functions, and other factors, as well as the potential effects of diabetes management on sensory health.

Emerging trends in pharmacological treatment of inferior alveolar nerve sensory disorders: a scoping review.

Sensory disorders of the inferior alveolar nerve, often arising from dental procedures, markedly impact the quality of life of patients. This article proposes a scoping review to analyze emerging trends in pharmacological treatment for these disorders, addressing scientific gaps and clinical practices. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR protocol, conducting data searches across various databases, including PubMed and Cochrane, until March 2024. Case studies and series related to patients with sensory disorders of the inferior alveolar nerve undergoing pharmacological treatment were included.Parte inferior do formulário Results: Out of the initial 542 records, 7 studies were included after rigorous selection, displaying low bias risk. Medicinal therapies varied, encompassing analgesics, corticosteroids, anesthetics, and vitamin complexes. Dipyrone stood out in the preoperative phase, while prednisone proved effective in paresthesias. Selegiline, an MAO-B inhibitor, introduced an innovative approach. Agents such as selegiline offer an innovative approach to sensory restoration, while corticosteroids exhibit variable efficacy. Dipyrone is effective in preoperative pain control, and vitamin complexes provide regenerative and neuroprotective benefits. However, it is essential to consider that treatment success may vary and to address the individual needs of patients.

Possibilities of non-invasive diagnosis of diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy in children with type 1 diabetes

Background. Most diagnostic tests for diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy (DPNP) are not suitable for use in childhood, resulting in low diagnostic accuracy of this complication. Therefore, it is necessary to identify reliable and simple markers for early detection and monitoring of diabetic polyneuropathy progression in children. The purpose was to investigate the diagnostic value of the Clinical Neurological Examination (CNE), the pediatric-modified Total Neuropathy Score (ped-mTNS), and the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) in the non-invasive diagnosis of diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy in children with type 1 diabetes. Materials and methods. Ninety-one children with type 1 diabetes aged 10 to 17 years were examined. Group 1 included 57 patients with a duration of type 1 diabetes of up to 5 years, while group 2 consisted of 34 children with a disease duration of more than 5 years. To diagnose DPNP, a comprehensive neurological examination was conducted using the CNE, the ped-mTNS, and the PBS followed by determination of the diagnostic significance of each scale using ROC analysis. Results. It has been proven that two scales have diagnostic significance for identifying DPNP, the CNE and the ped-mTNS; based on the results of using both, DPNP was diagnosed in 50.5 % of patients. The clinical picture of DPNP was dominated by motor and sensory disorders, which are one of the first manifestations of this condition in children. The first signs of DPNP were registered already on the first years of illness. The frequency of development and stage of neurological disorders increased along with disease progression and the deterioration of glycemic control. Conclusions. Diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy is a common complication of diabetes in children, which is registered in 50.5 % of cases. Тhe CNE and the ped-mTNS allows to expand diagnostic capabilities regarding the detection of DPNP in children without the use of invasive diagnostic methods.

Homoeopathy for alcohol withdrawal state with delirium – A case report

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome’s major consequence, delirium tremens, is a complex issue that greatly raises patient morbidity and fatality rates. Alcohol withdrawal delirium is characterised by tremors, hypertension, profuse sweating, tachycardia and common delirium symptoms such as disorientation, lightheadedness, disturbances of circadian rhythm, processes of thinking and sensory disorders, all occurring over time. A 54-year-old male patient presented with a feature of visual hallucination that the police were standing in front of his house. He had suspicion that someone had kept a listening device in his house and all his conversations were being heard. He was doubtful that he could hear a musical tone and constantly searched for the music-producing device in his clothes, on his body, in his house, etc. As per his acute symptoms presentation, Arsenicum album (Ars. alb) 30 C was prescribed frequently until his symptoms responded to it. His symptoms completely disappeared, and his Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol score decreased from 16 to 0 within 5 days. This case report illustrates the potential use of homoeopathic medicine in the management of an acute emergency of Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium.

Perceptual Disturbances and Disorders in the ICD-11: An Overview and a Proposal for Systematic Classification.

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) has been developed and edited by the World Health Organisation and represents the global standard for recording health information and causes of death. The ICD-11 is the eleventh revision and came into effect on 1 January 2022. Perceptual disturbances refer to abnormalities in the way sensory information is interpreted by the brain, leading to distortions in the perception of reality. These can manifest as distorted perceptions or as phantom perceptions and can occur in all sensory modalities as visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory tactile, vestibular, proprioceptory or interoceptory disturbances. There are similar brain mechanisms involved in the generation of these analogous perceptual disturbances and disorders, and they are treated with similar approaches. Perceptual disturbances are highly prevalent, with large variations across the different sensory modalities. They can be associated with significant suffering and cause a high socioeconomic burden. Perceptual disturbances can be symptoms of another disease or disease entities on their own. In the context of pain, this is reflected by the distinction between secondary pain (pain as a symptom of another underlying condition) and primary pain (a disease in its own right, rather than being a symptom of another underlying condition) in the ICD-11. Such a clear distinction is not found in an entirely consistent way across the various sensory modalities. By using the example of auditory phantom perceptions, we propose a framework for the classification of sensory disorders in alignment with the classification of pain in the ICD-11. The descriptions of the sensory disturbances should include (1) a causal aspect (primary versus secondary), (2) a temporal aspect (acute vs. chronic and persistent vs. intermittent), (3) a cognitive, emotional and autonomic interpretation aspect (=suffering) and (4) a social aspect (=disability). If the latter two aspects are present, we propose that the sensory disturbance is called a sensory disorder.

The known structural variations in hearing loss and their diagnostic approaches: a comprehensive review.

Hearing loss (HL) is the most common sensory disorder, characterized by a wide range of causes, including both environmental and genetic factors. While single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and small insertions/deletions have been extensively studied, the role of structural variations (SVs) in hearing impairment has gained increasing recognition. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the importance of SVs in HL, by exploring the SVs associated with HL and their underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Additionally, diagnostic methods of SVs have been briefly evaluated and compared in general. Three major mechanisms by which SVs can lead to HL are gene disruption, gene dosage imbalance, and position effect. Furthermore, to facilitate the detection of SVs in HL, this review presents a table highlighting the key genes and genomic regions implicated in SVs and their diagnostic approaches associated with HL patients. In the next step, indications for the use of SV diagnostic techniques are compiled in another table in this article, which will help experts in choosing the most appropriate technique. At last, the comprehensive review presented here underscores the significant role of SVs in HL. Further research is required to fully elucidate the spectrum of SVs in HL and optimize the clinical use of SV detection methods in routine diagnostic procedures.

Timing of risk factors, prodromal features, and comorbidities of dementia from a large health claims case–control study

BackgroundMany risk factors for dementia have been identified, but the timing of risk is less well understood. Here, we analyzed risk factors in a case–control study covering 10 years before an incident dementia diagnosis.MethodsWe designed a case–control study using insurance claims of outpatient consultations of patients with German statutory health insurance between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022. We included patients with an incident diagnosis of dementia and controls without a diagnosis of dementia matched 1:2 for age, sex, region, and earliest year of outpatient encounter. We selected exposures based on previous systematic reviews, case–control and cohort studies reporting on risk factors, comorbidities, and prodromal features of dementia. We calculated the prevalence of risk factors in cases and controls and odds ratios for each year before the index date, along with Bonferroni-corrected confidence intervals, using conditional logistic regression.ResultsWe identified a total of 1,686,759 patients with incident dementia (mean (SD) age, 82.15 (6.90) years; 61.70% female) and 3,373,518 matched controls (mean (SD) age, 82.15 (6.90) years; 61.70% female). Study participants were followed up for a mean (SD) of 6.6 (2.3) years. Of the 63 risk factors and prodromal features examined, 56 were associated with an increased risk of dementia in all years during the 10th and the 1st year before the index date. These included established risk factors, such as depression, hypertension, hearing impairment, nicotine and alcohol abuse, obesity, hypercholesterolaemia, traumatic brain injury, and diabetes. The greatest risk, with odds ratios greater than 2.5, was conferred by delirium, memory impairment, mental retardation, personality and behavioral disorders, sensory disorders, schizophrenia, and psychosis. Cancer was associated with a reduced risk of dementia.ConclusionsThis large case–control study confirmed established risk factors of dementia. In addition, the study identified non-specific diagnoses that showed a steep increase in risk close to the index date, such as psychosis, conduct disorder, and other sensory disorders. Consideration of these diagnoses, which may represent prodromal features rather than risk factors for dementia, may help to identify people with dementia in routine care.

Prevalence and clinical impact of the London classification: a prospective, international, multicenter study from the Lower Gastrointestinal International Consortium (LoGIC).

The London classification provides standardization for characterization of disorders of anorectal function, although prevalences and clinical impact of these disorders are unclear. An international research consortium was established, including five specialist centers. Prospective data were collected in consecutive adults referred for refractory chronic constipation (CC), fecal incontinence (FI) or coexistent CC/FI over 18 months. Patients completed a standardized clinical questionnaire and underwent anorectal physiology tests which were performed and interpreted using uniform methodology. The prevalence of the London classification was compared between symptom groups (CC, FI and coexistent CC/FI), equipment types, and sites. Clinical impact was assessed using Cleveland Clinic constipation and St. Marks incontinence scores. Of 1,012 included patients (85.6% women), 30.5% had self-reported CC, 33.2% had FI, and 36.3% had coexistent CC/FI. Rectoanal areflexia was uncommon (3.1%). Disorders of anal tone/contractility (CC: 45.0%; FI: 68.5%; coexistent CC/FI: 63.8%; p<0.0001), and disorders of rectal sensation (major findings: rectal hyposensitivity, CC: 10.0%; FI: 5.0%; coexistent CC/FI: 11.1%; p=0.018; rectal hypersensitivity, CC: 3.8%; FI: 9.0%; coexistent CC/FI: 4.9%; p=0.025) varied between symptom groups and were associated with symptom severity. Most disorders of rectoanal coordination were found in similar proportions across symptom groups and were not associated with severity of CC (median Cleveland Clinic constipation score 10-14 in all groups). Prevalences of some disorders differed between equipment types (specifically balloon expulsion test). This prospective multicenter study provides information on the prevalence and clinical impact of the London classification, and will guide refinement of the current London classification.

MiR-145b/AP2B1 Axis Contributes to Noise-induced Sensorineural Hearing Loss In a Male Mouse Model.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is an increasingly prevalent sensory disorder, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Adaptor related protein complex 2 subunit beta 1 (AP2B1) has been indicated to be detectable in mature cochleae. Nonetheless, it is unclear whether AP2B1 is implicated in the progression of SNHL. Male CBA/J mice were exposed to 2-20 kHz broadband noise at 96 or 101 dB SPL to induce temporary or permanent threshold shifts (TTS or PTS). Auditory brainstem responses were measured for hearing loss evaluation. Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict the upstream miRNAs of Ap2b1. RT-qPCR and western blotting were utilized to determine miR-145b and AP2B1 expression in mouse cochleae. Luciferase reporter assay was implemented to verify the interaction between Ap2b1 and miR-145b. Bioinformatics analysis identified miR-145b as an upstream miRNA of Ap2b1. AP2B1 expression was decreased and miR-145b expression was increased in mouse cochleae after PTS noise exposure. miR-145b targeted and negatively regulated Ap2b1 in PTS noise-exposed mice. Depletion of miR-145b alleviated auditory threshold shifts and outer hair cell loss in mice with exposure to PTS noise. In conclusion, inhibition of miR-145b ameliorates noise-induced SNHL in mice by upregulating AP2B1 expression.

Clinical Characteristics of Early-Onset and Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis in Patients from Lithuania.

Background and Objectives: Early-onset MS (EOMS) and late-onset MS (LOMS) differ in terms of symptom presentation, disease progression, and disability outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with EOMS and LOMS in Lithuania. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients' medical records was conducted at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas Clinics Department of Neurology. This study included 97 patients with multiple sclerosis, of which 34 were diagnosed with EOMS and 63 with LOMS. Results: The female/male ratio did not differ significantly in the EOMS group (1.26:1), while in the LOMS group, the female-to-male ratio was 2:1. All EOMS patients were diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), while in the LOMS group, RRMS was observed in 55.6%, secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) was observed in 27%, and primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) was observed in 17.4% of patients (p < 0.001). The most common initial symptoms in the EOMS group were brainstem dysfunction (50%), and sensory (38.2%) and visual (26.5%) disorders, whereas LOMS patients predominantly experienced brainstem dysfunction (50.8%) and motor impairments (47.6%). The EOMS group experienced more clinical relapses in the first year after diagnosis, along with more frequent radiological signs of disease activity compared to LOMS (p < 0.001). Both groups demonstrated a significant increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at the last follow-up visit compared to the baseline, while the LOMS group had higher EDSS scores both at the baseline and at the last follow-up compared to the EOMS group (p < 0.001). Only LOMS patients had an increase in Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) at the last follow-up compared to the baseline (p = 0.028), and MSSS was higher than in EOMS patients both at the baseline (p = 0.004) and the last follow-up (p < 0.001). Conclusions: There was no significant gender difference in the EOMS group, whereas in the LOMS group, females were predominant. Both groups had RRMS as the most common disease course. At the onset of MS, brainstem dysfunction was the most common symptom in both patient groups. EOMS patients had a more active disease course, in contrast to LOMS patients, who exhibited higher levels of disability, suggesting a progressive disease.

Parents' Experiences and Views About Use of Wearable Technology for Research and Treatment Monitoring of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders.

Wearable technology has potential benefits for clinical measurement with children who have neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). However, this cohort may experience sensory processing disorder, behavioral dysregulation, and cognitive challenges. For effective and considerate implementation, the experiences and views of parents of children with NDDs on this topic need in-depth investigation. This qualitative semi-structured interview study used purposeful sampling of families with experience with wearable technology in a research setting. The cohort included 12 parents of 14 children with a diagnosis of Fragile X (n = 6), Prader-Willi (n = 4), or Angelman (n = 4) syndromes. The data were processed using NVivo software (QSR International Ltd. 1999-2013). Data analysis was conducted using reflexive thematic analysis. Theme 1: Parents are willing to use wearable technology in the home or community if it is feasible. Aspects of feasibility were the ease of embedding technology into existing routines, device robustness, and device invasiveness. Theme 2: Parents are guided by previous healthcare and research experiences. Wearables were considered low burden in the context of everything else their child experiences through health care. Theme 3: Early engagement with families in the design and research process of new technologies is important. Parents had strong views on how to introduce a wearable to their child. In this article, parents stressed that the child's behavioral phenotype needs to be considered early in the design and rollout phases. A shared decision-making approach between researchers and parents will improve the uptake and success of NDD-focused research adopting wearable technology approaches for clinical measurement.

The phenomenon of sensory processing: historical overview, theoretical models, and neurophysiological underpinnings

The article provides a review of the sensory processing (SP) phenomenon, its origins, theoretical models, and neurophysiological foundations. Initiated by A. Jean Ayres’ research on sensory integration in the 1960s and 70s, this field has evolved, leading to the development of concepts such as Winnie Dunn’s four quadrant model and Miller’s ecological model of sensory modulation. Over the years, based on theoretical considerations, the concepts of sensory processing disorder and sensory processing sensitivity were formulated. The article highlights the role of temperament and its impact on sensory processing, suggesting that individual differences can significantly affect how people respond to sensory stimuli. The neurophysiological basis including sensory gating, electrodermal responses, and neuroimaging methods is presented. There has been an interest in the relationship between SP and mental disorders in adults, despite the lack of a formal diagnosis in DSM‑5 and ICD classifications. The literature analysis reveals the complexity of the subject, indicating the need for further research in this field.

Characterization and Otoprotective Effects of Polysaccharides from Arthrospira platensis.

Hearing loss is one of the most common sensory disorders in humans, and a large number of cases are due to ear cell damage caused by ototoxic drugs including anticancer agents, such as cisplatin. The recent literature reported that hearing loss is promoted by an excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cochlea cells, which causes oxidative stress. Recently, polysaccharides from the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis showed many biological activities, including antioxidant activity, suggesting their potential use to combat hearing loss. On these bases, this study describes the extraction, purification, and characterization of water-soluble polysaccharides from A. platensis (SPPs) and the investigation of their protective role against cisplatin toxicity on House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti (HEI-OC1) cells. The results showed that SPPs (5-80 µg/mL) induced a dose-dependent increase in viability, statistically significant at 40 µg/mL and 80 µg/mL. Moreover, SPPs, evaluated at 80 µg/mL, inhibited the cisplatin-induced ROS level increase in HEI-OC1. This evidence highlights the potential of SPPs as natural candidates to protect cochlear ear cells against ototoxic oxidative agents. Moreover, in view of the potential use of microalgal polysaccharides to realize hydrogels, SPPs could also represent a healthy carrier for other topically administered otoprotective agents.

Multimorbidity latent classes in relation to 11-year mortality, risk factors and health-related quality of life in Malaysia: a prospective health and demographic surveillance system study.

We aimed to identify specific multimorbidity latent classes among multi-ethnic community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 18 years in Malaysia. We further explored the risk factors associated with these patterns and examined the relationships between the multimorbidity patterns and 11-year all-cause mortality risk, as well as health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Using data from 18,101 individuals (aged 18-97 years) from the baseline Census 2012, Health Round 2013, and Verbal Autopsies 2012-2023 of the South East Asia Community Observatory (SEACO) health and demographic surveillance system, latent class analysis was performed on 13 chronic health conditions to identify statistically and clinically meaningful groups. Multinomial logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression models were conducted to investigate the adjusted association of multimorbidity patterns with the risk factors and mortality, respectively. HRQoL was analyzed by linear contrasts in conjunction with ANCOVA adjusted for baseline confounders. Four distinct multimorbidity latent classes were identified: (1) relatively healthy (n = 10,640); (2) cardiometabolic diseases (n = 2428); (3) musculoskeletal, mobility and sensory disorders (n = 2391); and (4) complex multimorbidity (a group with more severe multimorbidity with combined profiles of classes 2 and 3) (n = 699). Significant variations in associations between socio-demographic characteristics and multimorbidity patterns were discovered, including age, sex, ethnicity, education level, marital status, household monthly income and employment status. The complex multimorbidity group had the lowest HRQoL across all domains compared to other groups (p < 0.001), including physical health, psychological, social relationships and environment. This group also exhibited the highest mortality risk over 11 years even after adjustment of confounders (age, sex, ethnicity, education and employment status), with a hazard of death of 1.83 (95% CI 1.44-2.33), followed by the cardiometabolic group (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.18-1.70) and the musculoskeletal, mobility and sensory disorders group (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.04-1.59). Our study advances the understanding of the complexity of multimorbidity and its implications for health outcomes and healthcare delivery. The findings suggest the need for integrated healthcare approaches that account for the clusters of multiple conditions and prioritize the complex multimorbidity cohort. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and evolution of multimorbidity patterns.

Identification of therapeutic target genes for age-related hearing loss through systematic genome-wide mendelian randomization of druggable genes.

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is a common sensory disorder with significant public health implications. However, few effective treatment options are available. Mendelian randomization (MR) has been used to repurpose existing drugs and identify new therapeutic targets. Therefore, we performed a systematic genome-wide MR of drug-eligible individuals to explore potential therapeutic targets for ARHL. We obtained data on the expression quantitative trait locis (eQTLs) of druggable genes, which were then subjected to two-sample MR analyses and co-localisation analyses with data from the ARHL genome-wide association study to identify genes highly associated with ARHL. Additionally, we conducted phenome-wide research, enrichment analysis, protein network construction, drug prediction, and molecular docking to help develop more effective and targeted therapeutic treatments. Overall, the MR analysis of eQTL data showed that 14 drug targets were significantly associated with ARHL. GO analysis of 14 potential targets revealed their primary involvement in biological processes such as the endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response, ER-nucleus signaling pathway, and fibroblast apoptotic process. Additionally, important cellular components include the Bcl-2 family of proteins and the endoplasmic reticulum lumen. After filtering using methods such as phenome-wide research, enrichment analysis, protein network construction, drug prediction, and molecular docking, six potentially druggable genes (BAK1, AMFR, LAMP3, STK17B, ACP5, and CD9) and six drugs (beclomethasone, propyl pyrazole triol, momelotinib, monoisoamyl-2,3-dimercaptosuccinate, pterostilbene, and naftidrofuryl) that may affect ARHL outcomes were finally identified. Our findings identified 14 potential drug targets for ARHL. These findings offer promising leads for more effective treatments for ARHL and help determine the priority of drug development, potentially reducing costs.

Effects of Different Connection Modes of Electroacupuncture on Electrocardiogram and Nerve Discharge in Rats.

Electroacupuncture (EA) is one of the most commonly used methods in acupuncture and has a good effect on pain, depression, sensory movement disorders, and other diseases. The effectiveness of EA is influenced by many factors, such as the accuracy of acupoint selection, the duration and course of EA treatment, and EA parameters. However, it has rarely been discussed whether the positive and negative electrodes of the EA instrument with acupoints at different locations and distances have an effect on the curative effect. In this experiment, we observed the effects of connecting the EA instrument to acupoints at different positions and distances on ECG and vague nerve discharge in rats and preliminarily explained whether the electric field formed by different modes of EA connection has an effect on the function of the body. The connection modes of EA in this experiment included the same acupoints on both sides of the body, the same meridian or different meridian acupoints on the same side of the body, and two needles in the same acupoint area. The results showed that when the positive and negative poles were connected to the acupoints on both sides of the body, the recording of ECG and vagal nerve activity was disturbed (the same fore and hind limbs); when the acupoints were connected on the same side of the body, the smaller the distance between the two needles, the smaller the effect on ECG and vagal nerve activity recording, and the effect increased with increasing current; when the acupoints were in the same acupoint area, the recording of ECG and vagal nerve activity was not disturbed if the two needles did not form a short circuit.

The diagnosis and treatment of the epithelioid sarcomas involving the peripheral nerves

Epithelioid sarcomas are rare soft tissue tumors and have possibility to involve the peripheral nerve and present as sensory and motor disorders. The symptoms are similar to those of nerve compression diseases. This situation is extremely rare in clinic and was only reported as several case reports in literature. It can be easily ignored and misdiagnosed in clinic and may bring out severe outcomes. From January 2003 to December 2017, a retrospective analysis of ten patients with epithelioid sarcomas which involved the peripheral nerves was made. The medical data, detailed clinical courses and the follow-up results were stated. In these cases, the tumors invaded the median nerve, ulnar nerve, radial nerve, brachial plexus, sciatic nerve and presented as relative symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to better prognosis. We recommended high-resolution ultrasound as a standard diagnostic tool for nerve compression syndromes not only reveal the morphological structure of the peripheral nerve, but also discover the tumor involving the nerve. Adequate surgical methods including wide resection and lymph node dissection if necessary. The manners of functional reconstruction need to be applied flexibly by the doctors. Postoperative rehabilitation is important for functional recovery. We want to share our experiences in the diagnosis and treatment to overcome this particular condition.

Parental Attitudes and Behaviors Associated with Selective Eating in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Although sometimes it appears as a natural behavior in children, selective eating can become problematic and severe, implying aliments rejection, a low range of eaten foods, the predominance of some foods in the child’s repertoire, aversion and avoidance of various food based on look, taste, texture, or smell. Consequences of selective eating can be noticed on health and development, interactions and inclusion in social settings, emotional and behavioral problems, low self-esteem, distress, and other family problems. In children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), it can be associated with sensory processing disorder, mood disorders, and health problems, and can become severe (eg., avoidant restrictive food intake disorder). Parental attitudes and behaviors, family dynamics during mealtimes, the emotional climate of the family, social support, and cultural and social factors have a significant impact on the problem. A case example of a 13-year-old child, diagnosed with severe autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, with selective eating (a low variety of foods in his menu, food refusal, and behavioral interference during mealtimes) and a tendency towards overweight will show the co-occurrence of selective eating and parental problematic behaviors. The child’s sensory profile (reported by the parent) revealed no differences from the norms. Parental tendency to overly gratify the child’s behavior, excessive worrying, and excessive assistance were associated with the child’s tendency to eat selectively, as well as to his preference for unhealthy foods and refusal of healthy ones. The attachment between mother and child seems to be anxious and there is a high degree of fusion in the relationship. Intervention for the eating problems can include attachment-based therapies, systemic family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapies, and training of parenting skills.