Hot Pack Research Articles

Comparative Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretch Vs Spencer Muscle Energy Technique on Pain and Disability in Patients with Adhesive Capsulitis

Purpose: Adhesive capsulitis is a condition in which the tissues of the shoulder joint become tight and impede movement. It is characterized by gradual loss of both active and passive glenohumeral joint motion, resulting in fibrosis, scarring and contractures of the joint capsule. Patient with adhesive capsulitis usually have difficulty in performing overhead activities, as well as routine duties such as combing their hair, dressing themselves, and throwing a ball. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretch vs muscle energy technique (MET) on pain and disability in patients with adhesive capsulitis.
 Methodology: Study Design: This research employed a rigorous single-blinded randomized controlled trial design to investigate the comparative effectiveness of two manual therapy techniques in the management of adhesive capsulitis. The study was conducted in accordance with established ethical guidelines and principles. Participant Selection: A total of 30 participants, aged between 30 and 60 years, were recruited for this study. The selection process adhered to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the homogeneity of the participant group. Inclusion criteria encompassed individuals in the 2nd and 3rd stages of adhesive capsulitis, both males and females, those with comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, and individuals experiencing painful restrictions in active and passive glenohumeral or periscapular motion. It was essential that participants had the ability to understand Punjabi or Urdu and were willing to participate. Exclusion criteria included individuals with a history of post-traumatic immobilization, cognitive impairment, previous surgery or arthroscopy, cervical pathology, neoplasm/tumor, or reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Informed Consent: Before the commencement of the study, informed consent was obtained from all participants. The participants were fully informed of the study's objectives, procedures, and potential risks and benefits. The rights of voluntary participation and the option to withdraw from the study at any time were emphasized. Participant data were anonymized and kept confidential throughout the research process to safeguard privacy. Randomization: To minimize bias, participants were randomly assigned to two distinct treatment groups, Group A and Group B. The randomization process was conducted using a computer-generated method, ensuring that each participant had an equal chance of being assigned to either group. Interventions: The study employed two distinct manual therapy techniques for the treatment of adhesive capsulitis. Group A received proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching, while Group B underwent the Spencer muscle energy technique (MET). Both interventions were administered over a duration of one month. Baseline Treatment: In addition to the primary interventions, all participants received a hot pack as a baseline treatment. This standard treatment approach aimed to create a consistent baseline condition for all participants and to alleviate any discomfort. Data Collection: The collection of data was a crucial aspect of this study. Data were gathered through the utilization of structured data collection forms, designed to capture demographic information and adhere to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Additionally, standardized assessment tools were used to quantify outcomes. The Shoulder Pain Assessment Disability Index (SPADI) was employed to evaluate both pain and functional disability, while the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) was utilized to measure pain intensity.
 Findings: Statistical analysis was done by using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 28. The collected data was analyzed and presented using appropriate statistical techniques. The data were initially checked for normality using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests. Non-parametric tests were employed due to the non-normal distribution of the data. Qualitative data were analyzed for frequency and percentage. Intra-group differences were examined using the Wilcoxon signed-rank t-test, while inter-group differences were assessed with the Mann Whitney U-test. Spencer mean Mets treatment group has lower mean ranks in total SPADI pain as compared to PNF study group.
 Conclusion: the study concluded that Spencer Mets has been more effective in reducing the pain of the patients as compared to PNF treatment. Healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of patients with adhesive capsulitis should consider the incorporation of Spencer MET as a viable option for pain management. The superior pain reduction observed in this study suggests that this technique may yield favorable results in real-world clinical settings. While this study offers valuable insights, further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and potential differences in functional outcomes between Spencer MET and PNF treatment. Comparative studies with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the benefits of these techniques.

A comparison of induction heating and ceramic pads for localised post-weld heat treatment of friction taper hydro-pillar welds in thick-walled steam pipe

The WeldCore® friction taper hydro-pillar (FTHP) welding platform provides integrated coring of 8 mm diameter creep condition monitoring specimens and automated welding of the hole in thick-walled steam pipe. The FTHP welds should be restored as closely as possible to their original material condition, and are therefore given a post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) that is usually done using flexible ceramic heating pads wrapped around the pipe. However, it may often be more desirable to perform localised induction heating using a ‘pancake style’ coil placed only directly at the weld location. This approach to localised induction heating is not a qualified procedure for thick-walled pipe and there is a scarcity of published literature on this topic. Hence this paper compares flexible ceramic pads and induction techniques for PWHT of FTHP welds in A106 Gr B pipe, 406 mm in diameter and with 20.4 mm wall thickness. The comparison considers metallography, microhardness, tensile and U-bend tests and concludes that both techniques are equally good in PWHT.

Venous dilation effect of hot towel (moist and dry heat) versus hot pack for peripheral intravenous catheterization: a quasi-experimental study

BackgroundHeat application before peripheral intravenous catheterization is recommended for venous dilation. Hot pack application enlarges the venous diameter in healthy adults; however, hot towels (moist and dry heat) are used often in some medical cases. However, it is unclear whether hot towel application promotes venous dilation better than hot pack application. This study compared the venous dilation effect of using a hot towel (moist and dry heat) to a hot pack before applying the tourniquet at an access site for peripheral intravenous catheterization.MethodsEighty-eight healthy females aged 18–29 years were recruited for this quasi-experimental study. They underwent three types of heat applications (hot pack, moist hot towel, and dry hot towel [moist hot towel wrapped in a dry plastic bag], all of which were warmed to 40 ± 2 °C and performed for 7 min) to their forearm and tourniquet application for 30 s after each heating. Venous diameter and depth were measured using ultrasonography, and venous palpability and visibility (venous assessment score) was observed as venous dilatation effects. In addition, the skin temperature, stratum corneum hydration, and subjective evaluation of the warmth were measured.ResultsThere were no significant differences in venous diameter and assessment scores after intervention between the dry hot towel and the hot pack groups, and the effect size was negligible (Cohen’s d < 0.20). However, these measurements were significantly lower for the moist hot towel than for the other two heat applications (P < .001). Although there was no significant difference in skin temperature and warmth rating score between the dry hot towel and the hot pack, these were significantly lower for the moist hot towel than for the other two heat applications (P < .001). The amount of change in stratum corneum hydration of the dry hot towel was not significantly different from that of the hot pack; however, that of the moist hot towel was significantly larger than that of the other two heat applications (P < . 001.)ConclusionsA method in which a towel warmed in hot water is wrapped in a dry barrier may be an alternative to a hot pack.Trial registrationThis study was registered with University Hospital Medical Information Network in Japan (Registration No.: UMIN000048308. Registered on July 7, 2022).

Effects of fasciatherapy versus fascial manipulation on pain, range of motion and function in patients with chronic neck pain

BackgroundNeck pain is among the common musculoskeletal problem that hinders a person’s daily activities. Fascial tightness is a familiar cause of chronic neck pain that is often neglected and can further cause neck disability and a limited range of motion.ObjectiveThe purpose was to compare the effects of fascia therapy and fascial manipulation on pain, range of motion and function in patients with chronic neck pain.MethodsA randomized clinical trial was conducted from February to August 2022 in the Riphah Rehabilitation Centre, Lahore, Pakistan. Fifty-two participants of both genders, aged 18–40 years with chronic neck pain of at least 3–6 months were included. Group A (n = 26) received fascia therapy along with a conventional physical therapy protocol of hot pack, strengthening and stretching, while group B (n = 26) received the fascial manipulation treatment with conventional physical therapy. All the participants were assessed at baseline and after 3 weeks (3 sessions per week). Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Goniometer (range of motions) were the outcome measures. SPSS 25 was used for the data analysis and normality of the data through the Shaphiro-Wilk test (p > 0.05), and parametric tests were applied.ResultsThe mean age of group A was 24.82 ± 2.64 years, and group B was 24.17 ± 2.20 years. The independent t-test result showed no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) in all parameters except in cervical extension and right-side bending (p < 0.05). At the same time, the pair-wise comparison showed significant results (p < 0.05) for all outcome measures in both groups.ConclusionDBM fascia therapy improved cervical extension and side bending (right) more than the fascial manipulation group.It is concluded that DBM fascia therapy shows more improvement as compared to other group.Trial registration numberThis study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05272111 on 09/03/2022.

A Pilot Study On “A Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Comprehensive Nursing Interventions (Hydrotherapy, Rice Heat Pad, Turmeric Therapy, Acupressure And Self Learning Booklet) On The Level Of Pain Perception And Dysmenorrhea Symptoms Among Adolescent

Background: Menstruation is a natural phenomenon in women after puberty and is often associated with dysmenorrhea (Garg, 2015). Dysmenorrhea is very common, painful menstrual cramps of uterine origin, which is commonly divided into primary dysmenorrhea (pain without organic pathology) and secondary dysmenorrhea (pelvic pain with an identifiable pathologic condition, such as endometriosis or ovarian cysts) (Nagy, 2021). Doctors and other women give a lot of conflicting advice to reduce the pain during dysmenorrhea. To handle menstrual pain, we can utilize either the pharmacological or non-pharmacological methods. Pharmacologically, menstrual pain can be treated with medication. However, Non-pharmacologically, menstrual pain can be reduced by adequate rest, regular exercise (especially walking), water immersion, and pressing pressure points and by drinking traditional herbs such as turmeric water (Armour et al., 2019). Alleviation of pain during menstruation will result in good productivity and confidence among women. Aim of the study: To evaluate the effectiveness of comprehensive nursing interventions (Hydrotherapy, Rice heat pad, Turmeric therapy, Acupressure and Self-learning booklet) on pain perception and dysmenorrhea symptoms among adolescent girls. Methods and design: The study was conducted using a Quantitative approach with Quasi Experimental Time Series with 2 group pretest and posttest design. Forty-Eight adolescent girls in the age group of 13-17 years were selected by using random sampling technique for both experimental and control group. In phase I, Data about background variables was collected before pretest, using socio demographic Performa and menstrual Performa. The researcher has conducted pretest level of Dysmenorrheal symptoms were assessed during first menstrual cycle for the first three days (1st day, 2nd day, 3rd day) by using Numerical Rating scale (NRS) and modified menstrual symptoms questionnaire (MMSQ) to the control group and experimental group. Comprehensive Nursing Interventions ((Hydrotherapy, Rice heat pad, Turmeric therapy, Acupressure and Self-learning booklet) were given to adolescent girls in experimental group on individual basis. Assessment of Effectiveness of Comprehensive Nursing Interventions on level of pain perception and dysmenorrheal symptoms were measured by using same pretest scale. The major findings of the study: Comprehensive Nursing Interventions ((Hydrotherapy, Rice heat pad, Turmeric therapy, Acupressure and Self-learning booklet) is an intervention in reducing Pain perception and dysmenorrheal symptoms as the pre-test mean score, SD and Mean percentage of experimental group shows that Mean (7.42±1.8) and control group Mean (7 ±2.34) on level of pain perception among adolescents with dysmenorrhea. So, the difference is 0.42, not statistically significant. Pretest mean score, SD, and Mean percentage of dysmenorrheal symptoms in experimental group shows that Mean (127.38±8.88) and control group Mean (125.25± 7.66) among adolescents with dysmenorrhea. So, the difference is 2.13, not statistically significant, assessed using student independent t-test. In posttest, there was a significant difference between experimental and control group of adolescent girls. The significant p- values 0.001 indicates, the level of pain perception and dysmenorrheal symptoms score were not similar in both groups, calculated using chi square test. Experimental groups are reduced the 44.20% of pain perception score and 20.67% of dysmenorrheal symptoms score after having comprehensive nursing interventions and control group are reduced only 2.90% of pain perception score and 1.61% of dysmenorrheal symptoms after routine care. There is significant association between posttest level of pain perception and demographic variables of adolescent girls with the age group of 13-14 years and 10th standard and posttest level of pain perception and menstrual variables of adolescent girls with 28 days menstrual cycle and moderate extent of blood loss in experimental group. There is significant association between posttest level of dysmenorrheal symptoms and demographic variables of adolescent girls with the type of family and family history and posttest level of pain perception and menstrual variables of adolescent girls with day of flow and material used in experimental group. Discussion: The findings of the study enlighten the fact that comprehensive nursing interventions can be used as cost-effective interventions and showed higher participant satisfaction during intervention by reducing the level of pain perception and dysmenorrheal symptoms score in adolescent girls with primary dysmenorrhea.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization versus Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique in Nonspecific Chronic Neck Pain: Single-blinding Randomized Trial

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) vs integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique (INIT) on pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, neck disability, and electrophysiological properties in nonspecific chronic neck pain. MethodsWe performed a pre-post prospective randomized controlled trial on 90 participants with nonspecific chronic neck pain. The participants were chosen randomly from physical therapy out-patient clinics in the Giza governorate and allocated randomly by permuted block to the following 3 groups: Group A received INIT on the upper trapezius in addition to supervised traditional therapy (STT) as hot pack, stretching and strengthening exercises, Group B received IASTM on the upper trapezius in addition to STT, and Group C received STT only. Treatment was 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Pain intensity by visual analog scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT) by commander algometer, neck disability by Arabic Neck Disability Index (ANDI), and electrophysiological properties in the form of muscle amplitude by root mean square (RMS), and fatigue by median frequency (MDF) were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks. ResultsIn the within-group analysis, there was a statistically significant decrease in VAS, ANDI, and RMS% values within each group with favor to INIT. In PPT and MDF, there was a significant increase within each group with regard to INIT as P value <.05. In the between-group analysis at posttreatment, the results reported a statistically significant difference between INIT and STT, and also between IASTM and STT in all variables. Between INIT and IASTM, there was no statistically significant difference in VAS and NDI, but there was a statistically significant difference in PPT, RMS%, and MDF. The post hoc test reported improvement in all variables in all groups, with more favor to the INIT group in PPT and electrophysiological properties only. ConclusionIn this study, we found no statistically significant differences between INIT and IASTM in VAS and ANDI posttreatment, but there were differences between INIT and STT group and IASTM and STT group.

3D FE modeling of a real-world energy piled foundation

3D FE modeling of a real-world energy piled foundation

Features of growing new cultivars of annual flowering plants in Kola Subarctic

Annual flower plants are widely used in landscaping of cities of Kola Subarctic. The selection of sustainable, promising species of annuals and the development of agricultural technology for their cultivation are priorities. For the first time in the conditions of the Murmansk region, 7 new cultivars of annuals were tested: Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees cv. Fan var. Deep rose and White, Antirrhinum majus L. cv. Potomac Cherry Rose, Calendula officinalis L. cv. Costa Yellow and cv. Calypso Orange with Black Center, Tagetes erecta L. cv. Big Top Gold, Tagetes patula L. cv. Hot Pack Gold and cv. Alumia Cream Brulee. Flowering time ranged from 55 (Callistephus chinensis cv. Fan) to 120 days (Calendula officinalis cv. Calypso Orange with Black Center). The main biometric indicators (height, diameter of flowers and inflorescences) fully corresponded to plants grown in more southern regions for 4 cultivars (Callistephus chinensis cv. Fan, Calendula officinalis cv. Costa Yellow and cv. Calypso Orange with Black Center, Tagetes patula cv. Hot Pack Gold), 3 others were rated lower. According to most indicators, the cultivar Calypso Orange with Black Center had high decorativeness, due to compactness of bushes and duration of flowering (120 days). The features of agricultural technology of the tested cultivars at the seedling stage were the following: adjustment of timing of sowing seeds, obligatory 3-4-week hardening, regular application of fertilizers and growth stimulants. On the whole, the new cultivars have successfully adapted to the conditions of the region, retaining their decorative properties. therefore, they can be considered promising for flower decoration of populated areas of the Kola Subarctic.

Evaluation of the effect of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) on function, muscle strength, range of motion, pain level, and femoral cartilage thickness in knee osteoarthritis: randomized controlled study.

This study was designed as a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) on pain, range of motion, function, muscle strength, and femoral cartilage thickness in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Sixty patients who were admitted between November 2021 and April 2022 and diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis based on anamnesis, physical examination, and imaging methods were included in the study. The patients observed during the research were randomly divided into two groups with 30 patients in each group. Hotpack, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), exercise (5days a week for a total of 15 sessions), and HILT (analgesic mode with a power of 10.0 w, energy density of 12 j/cm2, and 2min for every 25 cm2, biostimulant mode with a power of 5.0 W, energy density of 120 j/cm2, and 10min for each 25 cm2; total 9 sessions 3days a week) were applied for 3weeks for the first group, and hot pack, TENS, exercise (5days a week for a total of 15 sessions), and sham laser treatment (0 W total 9 sessions 3days a week) was applied for 3weeks for the second group. The patients were evaluated with the determined scales before the treatment, at the end of the treatment, and at the third month. A goniometer was used to measure joint range of motion measurement, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index to assess pain and function, Biodex System 3 isokinetic device for knee flexion-extension muscle strength measurement, and ultrasonography to measure femoral cartilage thickness. There was no statistically significant difference in VAS, range of motion, WOMAC, muscle strength, and femoral cartilage thickness measurement between the groups, whether before treatment, after treatment or at the third-month follow-up (p > 0.05). There was a statistically significant decrease in pain intensity, an increase in flexion range of motion, WOMAC, and femoral cartilage thickness in both groups (p < 0.005). A statistically significant increase was found in the average peak torque flexion muscle strength measurements at isokinetic 60°/s angular velocities in the post-treatment and third-month checkup compared to the pre-treatment analysis in both groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, there was no statistically significant difference between HILT + exercise and placebo laser + exercise observed. However, the exercise program performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist has been shown to be effective in improving all parameters.

Effect of a massage chair (BFR-M8040) on neck and shoulder pain in office workers: A randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundWith the increasing work-related musculoskeletal disorders, neck and shoulder pain among office workers has also increased. That said, this randomized controlled trial aimed to seek the potential effects of a massage chair (BFR-M8040) on neck and shoulder pain among office workers. MethodsThis was conducted at the Wonkwang University Gwangju Medical Center from April 2022 to December 2022. Sixty adult participants were randomly allocated. The mean age of male participants was 39.63 ± 8.09 years while female participants was 43.52 ± 8.27; women participated the most (86.67%). The control group received basic physical treatments, including a 10-min heat treatment for deep regions and a 10-min hot pack for the areas on the neck and shoulder of the complained discomfort. The experimental group received the same treatment as the control group and added 20 min of the electric massage chair's PEMF Neck Mode (XD module 3) (BFR-M8040, Bodyfriend Co., Ltd.). The participants received treatments twice per week. The primary outcome was measured using the numerical rating scale and the Korean version of the neck disability index. And the secondary outcome was measured using pressure pain threshold, range of motion, the Korean occupational stress scale, the Korean version of the Euro-quality of life-5 dimension, and safety evaluation. ResultsFifty-eight participants completed a 6-week follow-up and analyzed (29 in the control group and 29 in the experimental group). There was a significant decrease in the experiment group in both scales for primary outcome measures. For secondary outcome measures, statistically significant increases were observed in pressure pain threshold. The experimental group only showed a slight increase in the quality-of-life measures. There were no reported adverse events. ConclusionThe benefit of using a massage chair (BFR-M8040) was verified to alleviate neck and shoulder pain among office workers; future studies could involve participants from other countries for further investigation.

Effects of Hot Pack Therapy on Post-Colonoscopy Pain: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study

BackgroundPost-colonoscopy pain (PCP) is a negative condition that causes physical and psychological distress to patients and may lead to noncompliance with treatment and follow-up. The most common hypothesis for the cause of PCP is the inflation of the lumen with air to examine the mucosa. There are no previous studies that have examined the effects of thermal therapy in patients with PCP. AimsIn this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the Hot Pack (HP) method in patients with PCP. DesignRandomized, controlled, prospective study. MethodsPatients were randomized 1:1 into 2 groups of HP and control. In the HP group, hot packs of 40-45°C, kept in a hydrocollator heating unit for 30-35 minutes and wrapped in towels, were applied to the umbilical and hypogastric region of patients in the supine position for 30 minutes. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were used to measure the pain after colonoscopy. Visual analog scores at 1, 6, and 24 hours were recorded and compared in both groups. ResultsThere was a significant difference in the presence and severity of pain between the two groups at 1 and 6 hours after colonoscopy (p < .001 and p = .004, respectively). There was no significant difference in pain scores at 24 hours between two groups. ConclusionsThis study showed that the application of HP to patients after colonoscopy is effective in reducing pain in the early period.

The Effects of Radial Extra Corporeal Shock Wave and Low-power Laser Therapies on Clinical and Electrophysiological Parameters in Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Blinded Randomized Control Trial

Objectives: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common peripheral entrapment neuropathy with squeezing of the median nerve and the patient is unable to function properly. There are different physiotherapy interventions for the management of these patients and recently, shock wave therapy and low-power laser (LPL) have been widely used, but there is no strong evidence comparing the effect of shock wave therapy and LLLT. Therefore, this trial was designed to compare the effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), LPL, and routine interventions on clinical outcomes and electrophysiological parameters in patients with moderate CTS. Methods: Fifty-four patients were randomly assigned to the control (routine interventions), ESWT, and LPL therapy groups. All participants received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapeutic ultrasound, hot pack, mobilization, and stretching for ten sessions over two weeks. Additionally, the ESWT group received radial ESWT in four sessions, and the LPL therapy group received laser in ten sessions. The primary outcomes were pain (assessed by the visual analog scale), function (assessed using the Boston questionnaire (BQ)), hand grip, and finger pinch strength. Secondary outcomes were electrophysiological parameters (distal motor and sensory latency and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) of the median nerve. Results: Time group interactions were significant for pain, the symptom severity subscale of BQ, finger pinch, and hand grip strength (p&lt;0.001). Significant improvements were seen in clinical and sensory latency and motor NCV of the median nerve (p&lt;0.05). The ESWT group experienced significant improvements with a large effect size in pain, function, and finger pinch strength compared to the control group (p&lt;0.01). Additionally, the LPL therapy group showed significant changes in the function and finger pinch and hand grip strength compared to the control group. There were no significant differences between the LPL therapy and ESWT groups except for pain in favor of the ESWT group. No significant differences were found among the three groups in electrophysiological parameters (p&gt;0.05). Discussion: Although laser therapy increased the efficacy of routine interventions, it seems adding ESWT to the routine treatment may be superior for the management of moderate CTS patients.

Preservation of Eschar Prevents Excessive Wound Healing by Reducing M2 Macrophages Polarization.

Removal of the eschar has gradually become a consensus on treatments of deep dermal necrosis after skin trauma in recent years, whereas exaggerated scar contracture and tissue proliferation developed during healing have received little attention. Here, the authors investigated the effects of eschar on excessive wound healing of small dermal damage and focused on the role M2 macrophages played, hoping to offer a theoretical basis to improve patients' cosmetic satisfaction. A mouse dorsal wound model (n = 12) was established by electric heating pads heating for 20 seconds on each side of the spine, and the left side was the preserved group. Macrophage numbers, expression of wound-healing-associated proteins, and inflammatory cytokine levels were assessed at different time points by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. A co-culture system of M2 macrophages and myofibroblasts was created in vitro. Immunohistochemistry, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot were performed to evaluate the proliferation, migration, and protein expression of myofibroblasts. Preserving eschar inhibited contraction-associated proteins (α-smooth muscle actin and vimentin) and collagen expression, inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, IL-10, TFN-α, and IL-4) expression, and M2 macrophage infiltration. Mechanistically, M2 macrophages potentially contributed to excessive wound healing by promoting myofibroblasts proliferation, migration, and production of contraction-associated proteins. Eschar preservation in wounds could reduce inflammation and negatively modulate myofibroblasts by inhibiting M2 macrophage polarization and infiltration, preventing excessive wound contraction and collagen deposition.

70 (P6-4). Using a heating mat to new-born piglets increases the rectal temperature

70 (P6-4). Using a heating mat to new-born piglets increases the rectal temperature

Study on two nematode species suggests climate change will inflict greater crop damage

Food security has become one of the greatest challenges of the millennium and it is predicted to be exacerbated by climate change due to the adverse effects of soil temperature on crop productivity. Although plant-parasitic nematodes are one of the most important limiting factors of agricultural production, the fate of soil temperature in their biology is not fully understood. Here we present the effects of soil temperature on survival, reproduction, virulence, and disease severity from the perspective of two nematode species Rotylenchulus reniformis and Meloidogyne floridensis. The two nematode species were purposefully selected to represent a significant threat to annual and perennial crops. We employed novel approaches of direct as well as indirect heat exposure to evaluate nematode biology. The direct heat exposure assay involved the exposure of nematodes to hot water in a heating block at 32, 33, and 34 °C for 7 h, and subsequent evaluation of their survival after 18 h. The indirect exposure assay employed a commercial heat mat to raise soil temperatures to 32, 33, and 34 °C for 7 h during the daytime, and subsequent evaluation of nematode reproduction, virulence, and/or disease severity over the period of 6 weeks after inoculation. When directly exposed to hot water at 34 °C, the survival of R. reniformis increased by 10% while the survival of M. floridensis decreased by 12% relative to that at 32 °C. Upon increasing soil temperatures from 32 to 34 °C, the reproduction of R. reniformis and M. floridensis decreased by 49% and 53%, respectively. A significant reduction in the reproduction of M. floridensis occurred when soil temperature was increased from 33 to 34 °C, however, the same condition did not significantly affect R. reniformis reproduction suggesting the latter species has a greater ability to adapt to increasing soil temperature. Additionally, the virulence of R. reniformis was greater at 33 and 34 °C relative to that at 30 °C indicating increased aggressiveness of the nematode at higher soil temperatures. The virulence of M. floridensis appeared to be decreased as evident from increased root biomass when soil temperature was increased from 32 to 34 °C, however, the greater root biomass may have resulted from increased root galling at the higher temperatures. Results of the current study suggest that while higher soil temperatures due to climate change may lead to reduced nematode reproduction, crop losses will likely increase due to increased nematode virulence. Through the current study, we report practical evidence of the quantitative impact of climate change on the biology of plant-parasitic nematodes. Further studies involving a wider range of temperature and exposure time are needed to better understand nematode biology under climate change.

A comparison between hypertonic dextrose prolotherapy and conventional physiotherapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of hypertonic dextrose prolotherapy (HDP) with conventional physiotherapy (CPT) in improving symptoms in females with knee osteoarthritis (OA). The present study included 60 patients with a diagnosis of knee OA. The patients were randomly assigned to the HDP (n=30) and CPT (n=30) groups. The patients in the HDP group were treated with a dextrose injection into the knee joint (25% dextrose) and around the knee (15% dextrose) in two sessions for 1 month, while those in the CPT group received a hot pack, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and therapeutic ultrasound in five sessions a week for 4 weeks. Prior to commencing the treatment, and at 1 and 3 months post-treatment, all the patients were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the goniometric measurement of active knee range of motion (ROM), a 50-m walking test and isokinetic knee muscle strength measurements. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups as regards the demographic characteristics at pre-treatment (P>0.05). However, at 1 and 3 months post-treatment, the scores of all the outcome parameters were significantly improved in the HDP group compared with the CPT group (P<0.05 for all). In both groups, a significant improvement was observed in the VAS scores, WOMAC total values and ROM following the treatments, with the greatest improvement observed in the HDP group (P<0.001). The isokinetic quadriceps peak torque measurements were increased in both groups following treatment. All the scores exhibited a statistically significant improvement in the HDP group at both 1 and 3 months post-treatment. On the whole, the results of the present study demonstrate that both HDP and CPT are effective treatment modalities to relieve pain, and increase functionality and strength in patients with knee OA. However, greater improvements in pain and functionality can be achieved with prolotherapy.

Erratum: Rat Model of Normothermic Ex-Situ Perfused Heterotopic Heart Transplantation.

Erratum: Rat Model of Normothermic Ex-Situ Perfused Heterotopic Heart Transplantation.

Potential effects of gingerol topical application on components of the innate immunity in lactating goat mammary glands.

In the mammary glands, production of antimicrobial components and formation of less-permeable tight junctions (TJs) are important for safe milk production. Previously, we reported that local heat treatment of udders using disposable heating pad enhances the components of innate immunity in lactating goat mammary glands. Gingerol is a polyphenol present in ginger that can induce heat-like effects. However, oral administration of polyphenols causes a decrease in biological activity through conjugation and metabolic conversion. Here, we investigated the effects of gingerol on antimicrobial components and TJs by topically applying it to lactating goat udders. Gingerol application increased the somatic cell count, cathelicidin-2 concentration, and proportion of polymorphonuclear cells in the milk and interleukin-8 production. Moreover, gingerol treatment enhanced β-defensin-1 production in milk, cultured mammary epithelial cells, and cultured somatic cells. Contrastingly, gingerol treatment did not affect the concentrations of blood-derived components (Na+, albumin, and IgG) in the milk or the TJ barrier function of cultured mammary epithelial cells. These findings suggest that the topical application of gingerol, similar to local heat treatment, to udders enhances the components of innate immunity in mammary glands. These findings may be useful for the prevention of mastitis in milk-producing animals and, hence, safe and stable dairy production.

Does hot pack application change the morphology of the median and ulnar nerves?

This study aims to investigate the effect of the hot pack application on the morphology of healthy median and ulnar nerves. Between August 2021 and September 2022, a total of 54 healthy volunteers (17 males, 37 females; mean age: 31.9±9.4 years; range, 21 to 63 years) were included in the study. The cross-sectional area (CSA) and depth of the right median and ulnar nerve were measured using ultrasonography before and after 20-min hot pack application. The right median nerve CSA and depth from the level of the scaphoid bone (at the level of the carpal tunnel) and from the mid-forearm were also measured. The right ulnar nerve CSA and depth from the level of the hook of hamate and the mid-forearm were evaluated. The depth measurements between the skin and the outer hyperechoic border of the nerve were performed. After the hot pack application, there was an increase in both the median nerve CSA at the carpal tunnel (from 0.06±0.01 to 0.09±0.02 cm2 ) and forearm (from 0.06±0.02 to 0.09±0.02 cm2 ) levels (p<0.001) and the ulnar nerve CSA at the hook of hamate (from 0.04±0.03 to 0.06±0.01 cm2 ) and forearm (0.05±0.01 to 0.08±0.02 cm2 ) levels (p<0.001). No statistically significant difference was observed between the pre- and post-application depth measurements (p>0.05). Our study results show that the hot pack application leads to acute swelling of the median and ulnar nerves. In future studies, the relationship between morphological changes in healthy and pathological nerves and electrodiagnostic findings should be investigated.

The effect of scapular stabilisation exercises on posture and pain in patients with fibromyalgia: a randomised controlled trial

Background/Aims Fibromyalgia is a complex syndrome characterised by chronic widespread pain, postural problems, sleep disorders, fatigue and psychiatric disorders. This study investigated the effect of scapular stabilisation exercises on cervical posture and pain in patients with fibromyalgia. Methods The study included 59 patients between the ages of 18–60 years. Individuals were divided into two groups: the study group (n=29) and control group (n=30). Both groups underwent hot pack application, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and ultrasonography before the exercises. This application continued for a total of 6 weeks in both groups, 5 days a week. After this treatment, the control group was asked to perform conventional shoulder exercises and the scapular stabilisation group was asked to perform scapular stabilisation exercises. The patients were evaluated in terms of pain and cervical posture. Results Pain levels significantly decreased in both groups after the treatment (P=0.019). A decrease in tragus-to-wall distance occurred in the conventional exercise group (P=0.005). Scapular stabilisation exercises were found to be more effective than conventional exercises In terms of pain (P&lt;0.001) and cervical posture, (P=0.024). Conclusions Both exercise programmes reduced pain levels in patients with fibromyalgia. However, scapular stabilisation exercises were more effective at both reducing pain and improving posture. Physiotherapists can use scapular stabilisation exercises to patients with fibromyalgia to reduce pain, improve posture and reduce the load on the joints.