Intact Group Research Articles

Impact of the Journaling Method on the Essay Writing Skills of Senior Secondary School Students in Keana Local Government Area

This study was carried out to examine the impact of the journaling method on the essay writing skills of senior secondary school students in Keana Local Government Area. This study utilised the quasi-experimental research design. The population for this study consisted of all public senior secondary school two students in Keana LGA, with a population of 3,012. The sample for the study were 103 students selected from 2. The intact group system was used were all the SS 2 students in the selected schools were used as sample size. The instrument used for data collection in this study was the Essay Writing Achievement Test (EWAT). The experimental group received instruction using the journaling method, focusing on idea generation, organization and punctuation in essay writing. The control group received normal classroom discussion-based instruction on essay writing. The treatment lasted for two weeks, with 80 minutes per week dedicated to it. The post-test was administered to both the experimental and control groups following the completion of the treatment. The findings indicated that students who were exposed to journaling method performed better in terms of organization, content development, mechanical accuracy and idea expression. It was recommended that teachers should recognize that different writing skills may benefit from different approaches, government can offer professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their understanding and implementation of the journaling method.

Study of the neuroprotective properties of the heteroreceptor EPOR/CD131 agonist of peptide structure in tau-proteinopathy modeling

Introduction: Tau proteinopathy is a pathology associated with the activation of post-translational modifications and interactions of pathophysiological cascades of neuroinflammation with hyperphosphorylation of Tau aggregates. Therefore, preference is given to agents that have properties in reducing or slowing down the processes of neuroinflammation and post-translational modifications in the brain. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on male and female homozygous individuals of a transgenic murine line with overexpression of mutant human Tau gene (P301S) and a background wild mouse line C57Bl/6J. To assess the progression of Tau proteinopathy, behavioral tests were used at two control time points, and the last one measured the level of neuroinflammation markers and tau-proteinopathy. Results and Discussion: In the group of P301S mice treated with ARA-290, an improvement in the phenotypic picture of Tau proteinopathy was demonstrated compared with intact animals. In the Barnes circular maze test, mice showed a decrease in the total distance traveled and the latent time spent on the platform, which indicates a rapid entry into the shelter. In the O-shaped maze test, the group maintained a fairly high level of spontaneous exploratory behavior. In the vertical rod test, the animals recorded the best time indicators that they needed to turn and maintain balance compared to the intact group. A statistically significant decrease in the level of GSK-3β and an increase in CDK5 and PP2A were revealed, which indicates a dephosphorylating effect on Tau protein, as well as markers of neuroinflammation. NF-KB and TNF-α were significantly reduced by 57% and 32%, respectively, compared to the intact group. Conclusion: In the model of transgenic P301S murine line with overexpression of the mutant human Tau gene, the peptide agonist of the EPOR/CD 131 heteroreceptor demonstrated neuroprotective properties, which were confirmed by indicators of behavioral tests and markers of neuroinflammation and tau-proteinopathy.

Validity of the MoCA as a cognitive screening tool in epilepsy: Are there implications for global care and research?

This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of a widely available cognitive screener, the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA), to detect cognitive impairment in older patients (age ≥ 55) with epilepsy residing in the US, using the International Classification of Cognitive Disorders in Epilepsy (IC-CoDE) as the gold standard. Fifty older adults with focal epilepsy completed the MoCA and neuropsychological measures of memory, language, executive function, and processing speed/attention. The IC-CoDE taxonomy divided participants into IC-CoDE Impaired and Intact groups. Sensitivity and specificity across several MoCA cutoffs were examined. Spearman correlations examined relationships between the MoCA total score and clinical and demographic variables and MoCA domain scores and individual neuropsychological tests. IC-CoDE impaired patients demonstrated significantly lower scores on the MoCA total, visuospatial/executive, naming, language, delayed recall, and orientation domain scores (Cohen's d range: 0.336-2.77). The recommended MoCA cutoff score < 26 had an overall accuracy of 72%, 88.2% sensitivity, and 63.6% specificity. A MoCA cutoff score < 24 yielded optimal sensitivity (70.6%) and specificity (78.8%), with overall accuracy of 76%. Higher MoCA total scores were associated with greater years of education (p = 0.016) and fewer antiseizure medications (p = 0.049). The MoCA memory domain was associated with several standardized measures of memory, MoCA language domain with category fluency, and MoCA abstraction domain with letter fluency. This study provides initial validation of the MoCA as a useful screening tool for older adults with epilepsy that can be used to identify patients who may benefit from comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Further, we demonstrate that a lower cutoff (i.e., <24) better captures cognitive impairment in older adults with epilepsy than the generally recommended cutoff and provides evidence for construct overlap between MoCA domains and standard neuropsychological tests. Critically, similar efforts in other regions of the world are needed. The Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) can be a helpful tool to screen for cognitive impairment in older adults with epilepsy. We recommend that adults 55 or older with epilepsy who score less than 24 on the MoCA are referred to a neuropsychologist for a comprehensive evaluation to assess any changes in cognitive abilities and mood.

EFFECT OF “ONE WORD A DAY APPROACH” ON THE READING SCHEMA OF INTERMEDIATE LEARNERS IN THE FRUSTRATION LEVEL

This study made use of quasi-experimental research design, which is a non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design. Non-equivalent design is a good design when the researcher has access to one group for experimentation (Vockel 1983). The researcher opted to use this design because the subjects of the study are intact group of learners. This study was conducted in Dolo Elementary School, Bansalan West District. The subjects of this study were the 98 Grade five pupils – 50 are from section A which comprised the controlled group and 48 are from section B composed the experimental group. The composition of these two sections is heterogeneous therefore pupils of sections A and B have identical range of performance. This study made use of the non-random assignment of subjects where all learners of both sections A and B were involved as subjects of the study. This study revealed that the utilization of localized materials has an effect on the instructional effectiveness in teaching science five. It also revealed that there is magnitude of difference between the post test scores of the controlled and experimental groups. KEYWORDS: One Word A Day, Reading Schema, Intermediate Learners

EFFECT OF “HIRE A RESOURCE PERSON APPROACH” AND INDUSTRIAL ARTS SKILLS OF GRADE SIX LEARNERS

This study sought to determine the effect of Hire a Resource Person Approach on the Industrial Arts skills of grade six learners. This study made use of quasi-experimental research design, which is a non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design. Non-equivalent design is a good design when the researcher has access to one group for experimentation (Vockel 1983). The researcher opted to use this design because the subjects of the study are intact group of learners. This study was conducted in Dolo Elementary School, Bansalan West District. The subjects of this study were the 74 grade six pupils – 37 are from section A which comprised the controlled group and 37 are from section B composed the experimental group. The composition of these two sections is heterogeneous therefore pupils of sections A and B have identical range of performance. This study made use of the non-random assignment of subjects where all learners of both sections A and B were involved as subjects of the study. This study revealed that the utilization of Hire a Resource Person approach has an effect on the industrial skills of grade six learners. It also revealed that there is magnitude of difference between the post test scores of the controlled and experimental groups. KEYWORDS: Effect Of “Hire A Resource Person Approach”, Industrial Arts Skills, Grade Six Learners

Neuropsychological Test Performance Differentiates Subgroups of Individuals With Adult Moyamoya Disease: A Cross-Sectional Clinical Study.

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare noninflammatory disorder involving progressive intracranial vasculopathy and impaired cerebral blood flow in the anterior circulation, resulting in stroke and cognitive impairment. We aimed to characterize cognitive impairment and the possible predictive value of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of adults with MMD. This cross-sectional study examined neurocognitive performance in a group of 42 consecutive adult patients (mean age = 40.52 years; 69% female) referred for a presurgical neuropsychological evaluation. Neuropsychological functioning was assessed with a comprehensive battery, and cognitive dysfunction was defined as 1.5 SDs below the mean. Neurocognitive performance correlated with clinical/demographic characteristics and disease markers. Most patients (91%) had a history of stroke, and 45% had cognitive deficits, most notably on measures of attention/speed (48%), executive functioning (47%), visuoconstruction (41%), and memory (31%-54%). Only higher educational attainment and poor collateral blood flow in the right hemisphere differentiated cognitively impaired (n = 19) and intact groups (n = 23), and MMD-related characteristics (eg, disease duration, stroke history) did not differentiate the 2 groups. Consistent with previous work, frontal-subcortical cognitive deficits (eg, deficits in mental speed, attention, executive functioning) were found in nearly half of patients with MMD and better cognitive performance was associated with factors related to cognitive reserve. Angiographic metrics of disease burden (eg, Suzuki rating, collateral flow) and hemodynamic reserve were not consistently associated with poorer cognitive outcomes, suggesting that cognition is a crucial independent factor to assess in MMD and has relevance for treatment planning and functional status.

Maternal and filial consumption of probiotics protects from acute stress-induced anxiety and loss of benevolent gut microbes.

The study aimed to determine the effects of probiotic consumption during pregnancy and lactation and post-weaning on acute stress-induced anxiety and gut beneficial microbiota of the female offspring mice.The female offspring mice were divided into several groups: intact, control (only stressed), PBS/dam (dams gavaged with PBS), PRO/dam (dams gavaged with probiotics), PRO/dam+off (both dams and offspring gavaged with probiotics), and PBS/dam+off (both dams and offspring gavaged with PBS)The probiotics chosen are mainly L. rhamnosus, B.breve, and B. longum (108 CFU/ml). Foot shock stress will be applied for one hour on the 43rd day after birth. Behavioral tests were conducted using the open field and elevated plus-maze. Corticosterone was measured by ELISA kit, and intestinal microflora with qPCR.The data showed that PRO/dam+off had more entries into open arms compared to the control group and decreased move distance and time spent in closed arms compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference between the PRO/dam group and the control group. In the open field test, the control group spent less time in the inner zone compared to the intact group and in PRO/dam+off group. Corticosterone hormone was increased in the control group and was decreased in the PRO/dam+off. Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli decreased in the control group in comparison to the intact group, and in the PRO/dam+off group increased compared with other groups. Maternal and filial supplementation with a multi-strain probiotic mixture increased levels of beneficial bacteria and reduced stress-induced anxiety in mice.

Impact of Variable Speed Drive Jobsheet Integrated with Project-Based Learning Model on Electric Motor Control Skills of Vocational Students

The problem in this study is that many students in the electrical power installation engineering (EPIE) class have not mastered the skills of electric motor control (EMC). This is because the teacher still uses traditional methods in the learning process. Namely, the teacher actively explains the material according to practical experience rather than referring to EMC learning objectives. This study aims to apply a variable speed drive (VSD) jobsheet based on project-based learning (PjBL) in the EMC learning process and measure the effectiveness of the jobsheet applied. The research method used was a pre-experiment with an intact group comparison research design. The research subjects were taken from 11th-grade students of vocational schools majoring in electrical power installation engineering and were assessed using a questionnaire instrument to evaluate students' EMC performance. Data analysis techniques used were independent t-test and effect size test. Based on the independent t-test analysis results, the t-value is larger than the t-table (t = 4.936 &gt; 1.99962), and the significance value is 0.000, which shows a significant difference in skills between the experimental and control classes. Based on the effect size analysis, the value is 1.243, which means the jobsheet can improve students' EMC skills in the large category. Based on these two results, it is known that the PjBL-based VSD jobsheet is effective in the EMC learning process. Thus, it is expected that EPIE vocational high schools can use the PjBL-based VSD Jobsheet in the EMC learning process.

Reduced physiological extrusion of the medial meniscus in axial load-bearing condition in anterior cruciate ligament deficiency.

In this study, ultrasonography was used to measure medial meniscus (MM) extrusion under weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing conditions in both anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient and ACL-intact knee groups. This study aimed to determine the possible differences between these groups with an eventual impact on meniscal tears in ACL-deficient knees. A total of 107 patients who underwent ACL reconstructive surgery between June 2022 and April 2023 were enroled. After applying exclusion criteria, 37 patients met the conditions for inclusion in the study and formed the ACL deficiency group (Group D). Of the 141 patients presenting to an outpatient clinic who agreed to have ultrasonography conducted on their nondiscomforting contralateral knee, 37 patients matched for age, sex, hip-knee-ankleangleand body mass indexwith Group D patients were selected for the ACL intact group (Group I). Ultrasonography was used to measure MM extrusion in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing conditions for all participants. Seventy-four patients were included in the study (n = 37 per group). The supine position showed an MM extrusion of 1.2 ± 0.7 mm in Group I and 1.2 ± 0.7 mm in Group D (not significant). In the standing position, MM extrusion measured 2.0 ± 0.6 mm in Group I and 1.3 ± 0.8 mm in Group D. The difference in extrusion (Δextrusion) between the two positions was 0.8 ± 0.6 in Group I and 0.1 ± 0.2 in Group D, with statistical significance (p < 0.01). A consistent reduction in MM extrusion during weight-bearing was observed in patients with ACL deficiency, irrespective of the duration of ACL deficiency, age, sexand BMI. ACL deficiency did not significantly impact MM extrusion during nonweight-bearing conditions; however, less MM extrusion was observed in response to axial loading conditions. These findings indicate altered MM biomechanics due to increased anterior-posteriormeniscal motion and rotational instability after ACL injury. Level III.

Examination of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing pulmonary vein isolation

Abstract Introduction Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a cardioprotective neuropeptide. It has previously been shown that plazma PACAP level increases in myocardial infarction and decompensated heart failure, whereas it decreases in chronic heart failure. Patient material and method We examined blood samples from patients (n=46) undergoing pulmonary vein isolation for atrial fibrillation. We collected 5 ml blood samples from the femoral vein at the beginning, from the right atrium before the septal puncture, from the left atrium before and after the ablation, from the femoral vein at the end of the procedure and the next day from the cubital vein. PACAP levels were determined by ELISA. Patients were divided into intact (n=29) and scarred (n=17) left atrial groups by electroanatomical map. PACAP levels were compared in the total population and in the two groups and correlated with left atrial size and different comorbidity data. Results Significantly higher levels of PACAP were detected in atrial blood and in post-operative femoral vein samples compared to peripheral blood collected at the beginning and 1 day after the procedure. We measured decreased PACAP levels in the left atrium after ablation compared to samples from left atrium before the ablation. Although we found lower PACAP levels in the left atrium after ablation in patients with scarred atrium compared to the intact group, the PACAP levels showed significant elevation in the femoral vein after the ablation in patients with intact atria. Conclusions Our study was the first to show a difference between PACAP levels in atrial and peripheral blood samples. The elevated PACAP levels measured in atrial samples may be due to myocytes and neurons, whose PACAP production decreases depending on the degree of scarring following ablation-induced injury in the left atrium. Transient systemic elevation of PACAP levels is demonstrated in the periphery, suggesting a potential biomarker role for PACAP in these pathologies.

Single slice MR image estimation of 3D supraspinatus intramuscular fatty infiltration in older adults: relevance for clinical practice and research.

(1) To compare older adults stratified by supraspinatus tendon tear status (STT status)-no tear (Intact), partial-thickness (PT) tear, full-thickness (FT) tear-by 3D Dixon fat fraction (3D-FF); 2D fat fraction (2D-FF); and 2D Goutallier grade (2D-GG) at the Y-shaped view, and 1.4cm and 2.8cm medial to the Y-shaped view. Stratified by STT status to determine (2) correlation of 3D-FF with 2D-FF and 2D-GG and (3) inter-rater reliability at and medial to the Y-shaped view. Forty-five volunteers ≥ 60years recruited prospectively received shoulder MRI. 3D-FF and 2D-FF were measured on 6-point-Dixon MRI by three trainees. Goutallier grade was assessed on T1-weighted MRI by three fellowship-trained diagnostic radiologists. Descriptive, reliability, and correlation analyses were performed. Groups showed no difference in age. The FT group showed higher (p < 0.05) mean 3D-FF (14.09% ± 10.99%), mean 2D-FF (1.4cm medial to Y-shaped view, 14.91% ± 12.11%; 2.8cm medial to Y-shaped view, 13.32% ± 9.48%), and mean 2D-GG (Y-shaped view, 1.71 ± 0.78; 1.4cm medial to Y-shaped view, 1.71 ± 0.69; 2.8cm medial to Y-shaped view, 1.71 ± 0.72), relative to Intact/PT groups. 3D-FF showed strong correlation with 2D-FF among all groups/all analyses (rho, 0.80-0.98; p < 0.001). 3D-FF showed strong correlation with 2D-GG for all FT group analyses (rho, 0.85-0.91; p < 0.05). 3D-FF showed moderate-to-strong correlation considering all Intact/PT group analyses (rho, 0.51-0.79; p < 0.50). Dixon fat fraction showed excellent reliability for all groups (≥ 0.884, intraclass correlation coefficient). Goutallier grade showed excellent reliability for FT group (0.771, weighted Fleiss's kappa) but poor (0.294) and fair (0.502) for Intact and PT groups, respectively. Single slice MR image estimation of 3D supraspinatus intramuscular fatty infiltration has merit for continued use in clinical populations requiring potential rotator-cuff-repair surgery. However, Dixon fat fraction should be prioritized for use in research over Goutallier grade due to superior reliability.

The Effect of Reflective Journal Writing on Moroccan EFL Master Students’ Reflective Thinking: A Mixed Methods Study

Reflective thinking is one of the transferable skills necessary for academic and professional success. Therefore, stimulating English as a foreign language (EFL) students’ reflective skills is undoubtedly important. Reflective journal writing is a pedagogical strategy proposed to help students build their reflective potential. Although previous research investigated the effect of this strategy on the development of students’ reflective skills, there are inconsistent conclusions regarding its effectiveness. Also, limited research has investigated this issue in relation to EFL students in the Moroccan context, specifically in higher education. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of reflective journal writing in improving EFL master students reflective thinking. A convergent mixed methods approach associated with a quasi-experimental design was adopted. To collect quantitative and qualitative data, Kember, Leung, et al (2000) Reflective Thinking Questionnaire and reflective journal writing were used, respectively. A purposive sample of 69 EFL master students, including two intact groups, took part in the study. They were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 39) and control groups (n = 30). Quantitative results and qualitative findings revealed that the experimental group, after using reflective journals, has significantly developed reflective thinking compared to the control group. Also, a statistically significant change over time in the experimental group level of reflective thinking was observed. As it can be inferred, reflective journal writing is an effective strategy which could be used to help EFL students engage in a reflective reasoning. Accordingly, the results of this study encourage the formalization of reflective practice as a didactic approach to stimulate EFL students’ reflective thinking at the tertiary level.

Indirect Head of the Rectus Femoris Tendon as a Graft for Segmental Hip Labral Reconstruction: An Anatomic, Radiographical, and Biomechanical Study in Comparison With Iliotibial Labral Reconstruction

Background: The indirect head of the rectus femoris (IHRF) tendon has been used as an autograft for segmental labral reconstruction. However, the biomechanical properties and anatomic characteristics of the IHRF, as they relate to surgical applications, have yet to be investigated. Purpose: To (1) quantitatively and qualitatively describe the anatomy of IHRF and its relationship with surrounding arthroscopically relevant landmarks; (2) detail radiographic findings pertinent to IHRF; (3) biomechanically assess segmental labral reconstruction with IHRF, including restoration of the suction seal and contact pressures in comparison with iliotibial band (ITB) reconstruction; and (4) assess potential donor-site morbidity caused by graft harvesting. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A cadaveric study was performed using 8 fresh-frozen human cadaveric full pelvises and 7 hemipelvises. Three-dimensional anatomic measurements were collected using a 3-dimensional coordinate digitizer. Radiographic analysis was accomplished by securing radiopaque markers of different sizes to the evaluated anatomic structures of the assigned hip.Suction seal and contact pressure testing were performed over 3 trials on 6 pelvises under 4 different testing conditions for each specimen: intact, labral tear, segmental labral reconstruction with ITB, and segmental labral reconstruction with IHRF. After IHRF tendon harvest, each full pelvis had both the intact and contralateral hip tested under tension along its anatomic direction to assess potential site morbidity, such as tendon failure or bony avulsion. Results: The centroid and posterior apex of the indirect rectus femoris attachment are respectively located 10.3 ± 2.6 mm and 21.0 ± 6.5 mm posteriorly, 2.5 ± 7.8 mm and 0.7 ± 8.0 mm superiorly, and 5.0 ± 2.8 mm and 22.2 ± 4.4 mm laterally to the 12:30 labral position. Radiographically, the mean distance of the IHRF to the following landmarks was determined as follows: anterior inferior iliac spine (8.8 ± 2.5 mm), direct head of the rectus femoris (8.0 ± 3.9 mm), 12-o’clock labral position (14.1 ± 2.8 mm), and 3-o’clock labral position (36.5 ± 4.4 mm). During suction seal testing, both the ITB and the IHRF reconstruction groups had significantly lower peak loads and lower energy to peak loads compared with both intact and tear groups (P = .01 to .02 for all comparisons). There were no significant differences between the reconstruction groups for peak loads, energy, and displacement at peak load. In 60° of flexion, there were no differences in normalized contact pressure and contact area between ITB or IHRF reconstruction groups (P > .99). There were no significant differences between intact and harvested specimen groups in donor-site morbidity testing. Conclusion: The IHRF tendon is within close anatomic proximity to arthroscopic acetabular landmarks. In the cadaveric model, harvesting of the IHRF tendon as an autograft does not lead to significant donor-site morbidity in the remaining tendon. Segmental labral reconstruction performed with the IHRF tendon exhibits similar biomechanical outcomes compared with that performed with ITB. Clinical Relevance: This study demonstrates the viability of segmental labral reconstruction with an IHRF tendon and provides a detailed anatomic description of the tendon in the context of an arthroscopic labral reconstruction. Clinicians can use this information during the selection of a graft and as a guide during an arthroscopic graft harvest.

Визначення білків гострої фази в крові щурів після імплантації поліпропіленових хірургічних сіток із покриттям на основі танталу та його похідних

At present, more than 30 types of polypropylene surgical meshes are available in the world, but the statistics regarding the secondary inflammatory process after implantation still remain disappointing. Since polypropylene surgical meshes do not decompose well in the body, they can stimulate the surrounding tissuesto develop an inflammatory process that causes adhesions. For the past 50 years, tantalum has been successfully used to produce biocompatible medical implants in surgery, orthopedics, and dentistry. Its excellent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties have been repeatedly noted, indicating the possibility of its use as a coating for mesh implants. In order to better predict the outcome after implantation of biomedical materials, it is important to determine the content of acute phase proteins, namely C-reactive protein, haptoglobin and ceruloplasmin. The aim of the study is to determine the content of acute phase proteins, namely C-reactive protein, haptoglobin and ceruloplasmin in the blood of rats after implantation of surgical meshes coated on the basis of tantalum, tantalum oxide and tantalum nitride. Materials and methods. The experimental group included 40 male rats of the WAG population. With the help of surgical intervention, a polypropylene surgical mesh measuring 15x15 mm was implanted between the abdominal wall and various sections of the colon. 28 days after surgery, the experimental animals were decapitated by cervical dislocation. Blood samples were used to determine the content of C-reactive protein, the content of haptoglobin and the content of ceruloplasmin. Results and discussion. The content of C-reactive protein in the blood of rats was statistically 260 % higher in the experimental group implanted with uncoated surgical mesh and 228.8 % higher in the experimental group implanted with polypropylene surgical mesh with tantalum nitride coating in compared with the results in the group of intact animals. Haptoglobin content was statistically 110.5 % higher and ceruloplasmin was statistically 52.6 % higher in the uncoated surgical mesh group compared to the results of the intact animal group. We obtained similar results in the experimental group, which was implanted with a polypropylene surgical mesh with a coating based on tantalum nitride. The content of haptoglobin was 130 % higher and the content of ceruloplasmin was 50.6 % higher statistically compared to the results of the group of intact animals. The C-reactive protein content was 113.3 % and 95.5 % higher, respectively, in the groups implanted with polypropylene surgical meshes with a coating based on tantalum and tantalum oxide compared to the results in the group of intact animals. The content of haptoglobin in the tantalum-based coating group was 83.8 % higher and the content of ceruloplasmin was 32.6 % higher compared to the results obtained in the group of intact animals. In the tantalum oxide- based group, the haptoglobin content was 60.1 % higher and the ceruloplasmin content was 29.3 % higher compared to the results obtained in the intact animal group. Conclusion. Based on the results of the study, it was established that polypropylene surgical meshes coated with tantalum and tantalum oxide significantly reduce the inflammatory reaction compared to uncoated meshes and meshes coated with tantalum nitride. This is supported by lower levels of key inflammatory markers, indicating improved biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory effects of tantalum and tantalum oxide coatings.

Effect of preparation design and endodontic access on fracture resistance of zirconia overlays in mandibular molars: An in vitro study.

To evaluate the fracture resistance of zirconia overlays, considering various preparation designs and the presence of endodontic access. Ninety translucent zirconia (5Y-PSZ) overlay restorations were divided into six groups (n = 15/group) based on different preparation designs, with and without endodontic access: chamfer margin 4mm above the gingival level without (group 1) and with endodontic access (group 2); margin 2mm above the gingival level without (group 3) and with endodontic access (group 4); overlay with no chamfer margin without (group 5) and with endodontic access (group 6). Restorations were bonded to mandibular first molar resin dies, and the groups with endodontic access were sealed with flowable resin composite. All restorations underwent 100,000 cycles of thermal cycling between 5°C and 55°C, followed by loading until fracture. Maximum load and fracture resistance were recorded. ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc tests were used for statistical comparison (α < 0.05). Fracture resistance significantly varied among overlay designs with and without endodontic access (p < 0.001), except for the no-margin overlays (groups 5 and 6). Overlays with a 2mm margin above the gingival margin with endodontic access (group 4) exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance compared to both the 4-mm supragingival (group 2) and no-margin (group 6) designs, even when compared to their respective intact groups (groups 1 and 5). There were no significant differences between the no-margin and 4-mm supragingival overlays. The more extensive zirconia overlay for mandibular molars is the first choice since the 2mm margin above the gingival level design withstood considerable loads even after undergoing endodontic access. A no-margin overlay is preferred over the 4-mm supragingival design as it preserves more tooth structure and there was no outcome difference, irrespective of endodontic access. Caution is warranted in interpreting these findings due to the in vitro nature of the study.

Exercise role on inflammatory and MCH-1 plasticity markers in severely contused spinal cord injured rodents

Approximately 17,500 new cases of Spinal cord Injury (SCI) occur annually in the United States. Growing evidence suggests that mobilizing the body following SCI through physical therapy regimens can help patients regain locomotor function. The immune response and the role of inflammation following SCI represents an important factor contributing to plasticity and recovery of function post-injury. The immune response uses both pro and anti-inflammatory factors to facilitate healing at the primary and secondary injury. In the severe case of SCI, inflammation can lead to maladaptive plasticity and that can hinder locomotor recovery. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a) can enhance the C-fiber activation in the dorsal horn resulting in sensitization and maladaptive plasticity. Exercise can also be pro-inflammatory. Exercise has been shown to decrease TNF-a levels and increases Interleukin-10 (IL-10) in human skeletal muscle. Bodyweight treadmill training in SCI animal has shown improvements in locomotor function. Interleukin-10 (IL-10), demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory effects in which it down-regulates TNF-alpha and its secondary effects. In addition, major histocompatibility complex class I proteins (MHC1), play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity of neurons which is critical for fostering an environment for spinal plasticity to occur. In this study, we focus on the role of training paradigms to be used to facilitate locomotor recovery in spinally contused rats. The Body-Weight Supported Treadmill Training (BWSTT) and circular Bodyweight-Supported Ambulatory Rodent Trainer (cBART) both represent locomotor training for SCI animals. Mid-thoracic spinal cord contusion was performed, and the animals were allowed to recover for two weeks. The contused BWSTT alone, or cBART alone or combined BWSTT and cBART training groups were initiated at beginning of the third week for a total of 8-weeks of training. Controls include contused rats that received no training, and intact group (SHAM). At 10 weeks, the spinal cord was dissected for qPCR study. We measure the levels of TNF-alpha, MHC1, and IL-10 in the thoracic segment above the injury site, the injury site, Lumbar 1-3 and Lumbar 3-5 segment. Results show that in the cBART trained group, the MHC-1 expression in the L3-L5 segment was significantly greater when compared to the contused injury with no training intervention. No training effect was realized in MHC-1 in the L1-L3 trained groups. The training paradigms did not modulate TNF-a levels in the lumbar spinal cord segments. Lastly, IL-10 expression was undetectable in all the spinal cord segments. In this severe spinal cord contused model, we were only able to show modulation in the MHC-1 expression in the trained lumbar segment as function of exercise. Additional work will be required to consider the intensity of locomotor training and the severity of spinal cord contusion impact on these plasticity markers. Future understanding of these mechanisms may be useful in developing better locomotor training methods and drug targets for facilitation of recovery following SCI. CSULA RSCA 2020 MINI Grant- Dr. Joseph CSULA MORE Programs Offce, MBRS-URISE (1734GM145503) Bridges to Doctorate 5T23GM146700 NIH R25HD097701-04 - Dr. Ray De Leon. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Critical Thinking Skills Enhancement: Implementation of CLIS Learning Models on Work and Energy

This study aimed to improve critical thinking skills (CTs) using the children learning in science (CLIS) model of students about work and energy at Junior Secondary School. The form of research used a pre-experiment with a one-group pretest-posttest design. The research participants were 28 students (eight grades) selected by using the intact group technique, randomly. The research instrument consisted of 6 essay questions. The result showed CTs students on work and energy was 49% in the medium category before the CLIS Lesson, while in the posttest it was 63% with the high category. Statistic descriptive analysis shows t count &gt; t table, which means that Ho is rejected. It reveals a significant increase in the CTs of students. The increase in CTs in the CLIS model uses a gain score of 0.3 in the moderate category. So, it can be concluded that applying the CLIS model can improve CTs in energy and work materials. The CLIS model can be used as an alternative in the learning process to improve student’s CTs in work and energy materials. Keywords: critical thinking skills, CLIS learning models, work and energy

Characteristic of a group of genes with low level of expression in the pancreas of rats under conditions of multi-day intermittent hypoxia influence

In modern medical science great attention is paid to the clarification of the molecular mechanisms, which are the basis of adaptation to environmental factors of unusual origin and/or extraordinary strength. The aim of the study is to determine the features of a group of genes with low expression level, associated with hypoxia in the pancreas of Wistar rats under conditions of intermittent hypoxia. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on 10 white, sexually mature Wistar rats, which were divided into 2 groups (5 animals in each). Animals of group 1 were part of the control (intact) group. The animals of the 2nd group were subjected to hypoxic training according to the following scheme: for 15 days, 6 hours daily, namely on days 1–5 they simulated an ascent to a height of one to five kilometers above sea level under the conditions of a barometer, and the last 10 days 6 km above the sea level. To analyze gene expression, we used the polymerase chain reaction method with real-time reverse transcription (PCR) CFX-96 Touch™ (Bio-Rad, USA) and the RT2 Profiler™ PCR Array Rat Hypoxia Signaling Pathway kit (QIAGEN, Germany), where 84 genes were the subject of research in experimental animals. Results. According to the results of the PCR study of genes in the pancreas samples of intact animals and animals exposed to hypoxic training, it was established that out of 84 genes associated with hypoxia, a group of 5 genes with a low expression level (∆∆Ct &lt; 30) was found. This pattern includes Bhlhe40 genes, Ctsa, Hif1a, Lox, and Slc16a3, the expression of which is statistically reduced. Thus, compared to the level of their expression in intact animals, the expression of Bhlhe40 decreased by 2.59 times, Ctsa by 6.02 times, Hif1a by 3.85 times, Lox by 3.01 times, and Slc16a3 by 2.40 times. Conclusions. Intermittent hypoxia reduces the expression of the Bhlhe40 gene by 2.59 times, which can be considered as an element of adaptation of cells to a low level of oxygen and modulation of genetic programs. The decrease in Ctsa gene expression by 6.02, Hif1a by 3.85, and Lox by 3.01 times during intermittent hypoxia demonstrates, that these effects can be used as sanogenic factors in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The 2.40-fold decreased expression level of Slc16a3 is probably an element of metabolic adaptation and adaptation of the metabolic pathway of cells to hypoxia conditions.

Effect of Meniscal Tear Patterns and Preoperative Cartilage Status on Joint Space Width After Medial Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy

Background: Medial opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) is performed to treat young adults with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis associated with varus deformity. However, factors influencing joint space width (JSW) vary according to the type of medial meniscal tear and have not yet been completely elucidated. Purpose: To examine changes in JSW according to the type of medial meniscal tear after MOWHTO and analyze the influencing factors. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: This study was conducted on 134 patients who underwent MOWHTO for medial osteoarthritis and were followed up for >2 years. The patients were classified into 3 groups based on medial meniscal status: intact, nonroot tear, and root tear. The authors then measured the JSW preoperatively and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and >2 years postoperatively; analyzed whether the change in JSW varied according to meniscal status; and determined the association of these changes with the preoperative cartilage grade of the medial femoral condyle (MFC) and medial tibial plateau (MTP). International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were used to evaluate clinical function. Results: Of the 134 patients, the medial meniscus was intact in 29 patients, a nonroot tear was observed in 58 patients, and a root tear was observed in 47 patients. Postoperatively, JSW increased for all groups, but the timing of the increase varied between the groups (P < .001). JSW increased the most 6 months postoperatively in the intact group and 3 months postoperatively in the nonroot tear and root tear groups (P < .001). Additionally, the increase in JSW was the greatest in the root tear group. Preoperatively, MFC and MTP cartilage status differed among the groups; MTP status did not affect the JSW, but MFC status did (P < .001). The IKDC score increased from the preoperative to postoperative time point in all groups, but there was no significant difference between groups. Conclusion: The authors observed that the amount and timing of increase in JSW were dependent on the pattern of medial meniscal tear observed when MOWHTO was performed. In addition, the cartilage grade of MFC before surgery was associated with changes in JSW. The IKDC score was not significantly different between groups. However, a longer follow-up period is needed to analyze the correlation with the meniscal tear pattern and JSW.

Effects Integrating Personalized Learning Environment On Students’ Achievement in Social Studies in Secondary Schools in Imo State

This study is aimed at determining the effects integrating Personalized Learning Environment on students’ achievement in social studies in secondary schools in Imo State, Nigeria. A Qusi-experimental research design with non-equivalent intact groups, pre-test and post- test was adopted in this study. The population of the study comprised the entireUpper Basic( Junior Secondary School) students of 94,963 with 47,481 male and 48,481 female in the 68 secondary schools in Owerri Zone 1 of Imo State. Purposive sampling technique was used as the sample techniques. 39 Jss 2 students (19 male and 20 female) in one school were in treatment one (personalised learning environment) group, while 43 Jss 2 students (21 male and 22 female in the school were in treatment two (lecture method) group. The instrument for data collection was Researcher Made Social Studies Achievement Test (RMSSAT). The items in the instrument were subjected to content and face validation by five specialists, three specialists from Educational Measurement and Evaluation and two from Educatonal technology. The reliability of the research instrument was established using Kuder-Richardson (K-20) and this gave a reliability coefficient of 0.86. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while the hypotheses were tested using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) F- test statistics at 0.05 level of significance was used to interpret the result. From data analysed, the findings from study are: Personal Learning environment is effective in the improvement of students’ academic achievement and also revealed that personal learning is more effective on the male students than on the female students. The study recommended among others that: since the use of personalized learning environment has been found to enhance achievement in social studies, teachers of social studies should employ this technologically enriched method to teach students in the classroom more ewspecially those abstract to topics.