NG Group Research Articles

Application of the Cantol Roudhoh Method to Improve Student's Reading Ability in RA Siti Fatimah

The application of learning to read cantol roudhoh is one of the learning techniques that can improve children's language skills. This technique is very suitable for early childhood learning. The results of research conducted at RA Siti Fatimah, Harjamukti Village, Cirebon City, showed that the objective conditions of language learning were studied from the teacher's perspective, positive responses of children, teaching and learning processes, and supporting facilities, using the cantol roudhoh method which was applied in developing aspects of language, and skills children's language that can develop as expected. The implementation of this raudhoh hook method in its application process at RA Siti Fatimah is to practice in class A, which is to introduce hooks from her friends in clothes to her friends, Zahra, after reaching the target of her friends, Zahra continues on package B, which is entering the introduction of vocal groups (a, i, u, e, o), after that they enter the ng (cat) group, then enter the Koran group (nga, ngi, ngu, nge, ngo) and mosquitoes (nya, nyi, nyu, nye, nyo ). The last stage is the introduction of hooks with consonants.

Influence of Immediate Implant Placement and Provisionalization with or without Soft Tissue Augmentation on Hard and Soft Tissues in the Esthetic Zone: A One-Year Retrospective Study.

The purpose of this clinical research was to evaluate peri-implant marginal changes around immediate implants placed either with the application of SCTG or XCM or without soft tissue grafting. A total of 48 patients requiring a single implant-supported restoration in the anterior jaw were selected for inclusion. Three surgical procedures were performed, as follows: type 1 implant with subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG), type 1 implant with xenogenic collagen matrix (XCM), and type 1 implant without soft tissue augmentation (NG) (control group). The marginal change of peri-implant soft tissue, facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT), peri-implant health status, esthetics, and patient satisfaction were assessed at one year after surgery. All of the placed implants showed a survival rate of 100%. No significant differences in FSTT were recorded between the SCTG group and the XCM group after treatment (P > 0.05), while the NG group presented a significant difference (P < 0.05). Patients in the NG group lost significantly more in the buccal marginal level than did patients in the SCTG group and those in the XCM group (P < 0.05). The favourable success rate recorded in all groups confirmed immediate tooth replacement as a choice of treatment for a missing anterior single tooth. The NG group presented significant changes of FSTT and buccal marginal level, while XCM constituted a viable alternative to SCTG.

Translational dielectric friction on a pearl-necklace-like polyelectrolyte chain

Translational dielectric friction effect on polyions is ignored by the literature. However, its contribution to the polyion conductibility is very sensitive to the configuration of the polyion chain, so that transition from coiled configurations to completely stretched configuration gives generally rise to a gap of the dielectric friction coefficient, βPdf. In the present work we analyze in details this effect in the case of slowly moving Pearl-Necklace-like Polyelectrolyte Chain of structural charge ZSe, and length L less than the structural length LS = ∣ZS∣bS, constituted by Nb beads separated alternatively by (Nb- 1) strings enclosing Ng groups (or small thermal blobs). The obtained practical results make possible, by comparing the experimental dielectric friction coefficient with its different possible theoretical values, to predict the chain conformation of the concerned polyelectrolyte.

Hyperglycemia results in significant pathophysiological changes of placental spiral artery remodeling and angiogenesis, further contributing to congenital defects.

Introduction: Hyperglycemic conditions achieved during pregnancy have been shown to have detrimental effects to fetal development and increase the prevalence of childhood comorbidities. However, the mechanisms in which diabetic pregnancies affect placental development and subsequently contribute to adverse health effects on the mother and offspring remain unclear. Research design and methods: Streptozotocin was used to induce gestational diabetes in mice. In this model, hyperglycemia was established at embryonic day 3.5 (E3.5). Pregnancy mass was collected at E10.5, E12.5, E14.5, and E16.5 for different assessments. Results: Both placental and embryonic weights were found to be significantly elevated at E16.5. At E14.5, a significantly larger junctional zone with increased number of glycogen trophoblasts was found in the placentas from hyperglycemic pregnancies (HG group) compared to the placentas from normoglycemic pregnancies (NG group). Importantly, the HG placenta exhibited decreased trophoblast giant cell (TGC) association and TUNEL+ cells, and increased expression of α-SMA on the spiral artery, suggesting arterial remodeling was impacted. Moreover, the interhemal membrane of the labyrinth layer, was found to be thicker in the HG placentas. Furthermore, hyperglycemia resulted in more offspring congenital defects, which were associated with a thicker interhemal membrane. Conclusions: Together, these results suggest that gestational diabetes perturbs proper placental development and function, specifically spiral artery remodeling and angiogenesis, thereby negatively impacting embryonic development.

Gambogic amide inhibits angiogenesis by suppressing VEGF/VEGFR2 in endothelial cells in a TrkA-independent manner

Context Gambogic amide (GA-amide) is a non-peptide molecule that has high affinity for tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) and possesses robust neurotrophic activity, but its effect on angiogenesis is unclear. Objective The study investigates the antiangiogenic effect of GA-amide on endothelial cells (ECs). Materials and methods The viability of endothelial cells (ECs) treated with 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 μM GA-amide for 48 h was detected by MTS assay. Wound healing and angiogenesis assays were performed on cells treated with 0.2 μM GA-amide. Chicken eggs at day 7 post-fertilization were divided into the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), bevacizumab (40 μg), and GA-amide (18.8 and 62.8 ng) groups to assess the antiangiogenic effect for 3 days. mRNA and protein expression in cells treated with 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2 μM GA-amide for 6 h was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blots, respectively. Results GA-amide inhibited HUVEC (IC50 = 0.1269 μM) and NhEC (IC50 = 0.1740 μM) proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, and inhibited the migration and angiogenesis at a relatively safe dose (0.2 μM) in vitro. GA-amide reduced the number of capillaries from 56 ± 14.67 (DMSO) to 20.3 ± 5.12 (62.8 ng) in chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. However, inactivation of TrkA couldn’t reverse the antiangiogenic effect of GA-amide. Moreover, GA-amide suppressed the expression of VEGF and VEGFR2, and decreased activation of the AKT/mTOR and PLCγ/Erk1/2 pathways. Conclusions Considering the antiangiogenic effect of GA-amide, it might be developed as a useful agent for use in clinical combination therapies.

GCT-58. BRAZILIAN CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM GERM CELL TUMOR CONSORTIUM PROTOCOL

INTRODUCTIONPrimary central nervous system (CNS) germ cell tumors (GCT) account for 2–3% brain tumors children/adolescents in Western hemisphere. The report aim is to present the results of a Brazilian CNSGCT consortium protocol.METHODSSince 2013, 45 patients with histologic and/or tumor marker (TM) diagnosis of germinoma with/without HCGβ levels≤200mIU/ml (n=33), four between 100-200mIU/ml and NGGCT (n=12), received carboplatin/etoposide/cyclophosphamide (4–6 cycles), followed by 18Gy ventricular field irradiation and primary site(s) boost. Autologous bone marrow transplant (ABMT) was conducted for NGGCT low responders.RESULTSMean age 12.9 years (4.7-20y), 34 males. Diagnosis was made by TM (n=9), surgery (n=19), both (n=15). Two bifocal cases, (-)TM were treated as germinoma. Primary tumor location was pineal (n=20), suprasellar (n=13), bifocal (n=11) and basal ganglia/thalamus (n=1). Fourteen had ventricular/spinal spread. Second-look surgery occurred in 5 patients. For the germinoma group, 26 achieved complete response (CR) after chemotherapy, seven showed residual teratoma/scar. For the NGGCT after 2/4 cycles, four patients showed CR, 2 failure/progression and 6 partial response (4 (-)TM). Two were submitted to ABMT. Radiotherapy was performed as described, except in three. One recurrence to date. Two patients died (endocrinologic complications/progression). Toxicity was mostly grade ¾ neutropenia/thrombocytopenia during chemotherapy. At a median follow-up of 38 months, OS was 100% for Germinoma and 85% NGGCT.CONCLUSIONThe treatment is tolerable and VFI dose reduction to 18Gy seems to preserve efficacy. Further follow-up is warranted to assess the NG group and the slow-responder patients.

Reward prospect improves inhibitory control in female university students with a history of childhood sexual and physical abuse

Background and objectivesChildhood abuse and neglect increase the risk for psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression and anxiety) during adulthood and have been associated with deficits in cognitive control. The specific mechanisms underlying these cognitive control deficits are still unknown. MethodsThis study examined the expectation for reward to improve inhibitory control in young women (ages 18–35 years) with a history of childhood sexual and/or physical abuse (AG, N = 28), childhood emotional and/or physical neglect (NG, N = 30), or unaffected comparison women (HC, N = 40). They completed a previously validated rewarded (color-word) Stroop task and filled out questionnaires on depression, anxiety, and resilience. ResultsSurprisingly, a significant group by reward interaction revealed larger performance benefits under reward prospect (relative to no-reward) for the AG group relative to both the NG and HC groups. LimitationsA small sample size limiting generalizability. ConclusionsThese results demonstrate sensitivity of abused subjects to reward in modulating cognitive control and might aid in discussing whether using reward schedules during therapeutic interventions could be effective.

Effects of Nonperiodized and Linear Periodized Combined Training on Health-Related Physical Fitness in Adults With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Streb, AR, Passos da Silva, R, Leonel, LdS, Possamai, LT, Gerage, AM, Turnes, T, and Del Duca, GF. Effects of nonperiodized and linear periodized combined training on health-related physical fitness in adults with obesity: a randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res 36(9): 2628-2634, 2022-The aim of this randomized controlled trial study was to compare the effects of 16 weeks of linear periodized and nonperiodized combined training (CT) in cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and body composition indicators of adults with obesity. Thirty-four obese adults of both sexes (36.6 ± 4.4 years; body mass index, 32.9 ± 2.7 kg·m -2 ) were divided into nonperiodized (NG; n = 8), linear periodized (PG; n = 11), and control (CG; n = 15) groups. The NG and PG groups performed 3 weekly sessions of CT over 16 weeks in different ways. Anthropometric measures, maximal strength for leg press and barbell bench press, maximal oxygen uptake (V̇ o2 max), and ventilatory thresholds were determined before and after intervention. The generalized estimation equation was used, with the applied level of significance for the interaction of 0.10 and the isolated effect of time or group or both of 0.05. Significant and similar increases were observed in the 1-repetition maximum test for bench press (NG: 48.8 ± 5.7 to 55.0 ± 6.1 kg; PG: 48.7 ± 5.7 to 53.8 ± 5.9 kg; p = 0.001) and leg press (NG: 235.2 ± 18.7 to 268.3 ± 19.7 kg; PG: 223.1 ± 25.3 to 253.3 ± 23.1 kg; p = 0.05) in trained groups. Relative V̇ o2 max improved only in PG (27.8 ± 1.3 to 32.0 ± 1.4 mL·kg·min -1 ; p = 0.05), while ventilatory thresholds improved in NG and CG ( p = 0.004 and p = 0.06). There was an increase in body mass in CG (97.6 ± 3.4 to 99.1 ± 2.9 kg) and NG (92.5 ± 5.4 to 93.5 ± 5.4 kg; p = 0.05). Combined training improved maximal upper-body and lower-body strength, regardless of periodization. However, for improvement in V̇ o2 max, linear periodization may be superior to nonperiodization in obese adults.

Preoperative Opioid Weaning Before Major Spinal Fusion: Simulated Data, Real-World Insights.

Retrospective cohort. To identify gaps in opioid prescription immediately prior to spinal fusion and to study the effect of such simulated "opioid weaning/elimination" on risk of long-term postoperative opioid use. Numerous studies have described preoperative opioid duration and dose thresholds associated with sustained postoperative opioid use. However, the benefit and duration of preoperative opioid weaning before spinal fusion has not been elaborated. Humana commercial insurance data (2007-Q1 2017) was used to study primary cervical and lumbar/thoracolumbar fusions. More than 5000 total morphine equivalents in the year before spinal fusion were classified as chronic preoperative opioid use. Based on time between last opioid prescription (<14-days' supply) and spinal fusion, chronic opioid users were divided as; no gap, >2-months gap (2G) and >3-months gap (3G). Primary outcome measure was long-term postoperative opioid use (>5000 total morphine equivalents between 3 and 12-mo postoperatively). The effect of "opioid gap" on risk of long-term postoperative opioid use was studied using multiple-variable logistic regression analyses. 17,643 patients were included, of whom 3590 (20.3%) had chronic preoperative opioid use. Of these patients, 41 (1.1%) were in the 3G group and 106 (3.0%) were in the 2G group. In the 2G group, 53.8% patients ceased to have long-term postoperative use as compared with 27.8% in NG group. This association was significant on logistic regression analysis (OR 0.30, 95% CI: 0.20-0.46, P < 0.001). Chronic opioid users whose last opioid prescription was >2-months prior to spinal fusion and less than 14-days' supply had significantly lower risk of long-term postoperative opioid use. We have simulated "opioid weaning" in chronic opioid users undergoing major spinal fusion and our analysis provides an initial reference point for current clinical practice and future clinical studies.Level of Evidence: 3.

The evaluation of the effect of hypercalcemia in oral pathologies

ObjectiveHypercalcemia is determined as an increase in the serum calcium level (above 10.5 mg/dL or ionized calcium is above 1.5 mmol/L). It was aimed to evaluate the effect of the increased serum calcium levels in dental panoramic radiographs with oral pathologies. Materials & MethodsThe final sample number of the present study was determined as 143. 61 patients with hypercalcemic calcium levels were grouped in Hypercalcemia Group (HPEG) whereas 82 patients were grouped in Normal Group. (NG) Measurements were performed only on the panoramic radiographs. The evaluated parameters were cyst-tumor or granuloma existence, sinus pneumatization, stylohyoid ligament calcifications, lamina dura loss, bone loss existence, etc. Statistical tests were carried out at p < 0.05 significance level. ResultsThe cyst-tumor formation (p = 0.03) and stylohyoid ligament calcification (p = 0.009) and increased radiopacity (p = 0.03) were significantly more common in NG than the HPEG group. Alveolar bone loss (p = 0.001) and periodontal defects (p = 0.01) were significantly more common in HPEG than the NG group. There was no significant relationship between other examined parameters. (p > 0.05) ConclusionThe serum calcium level revealed statistically significant outcomes and a close relationship with the pathologies occurring in the alveolar bone in the oral and maxillofacial region. However, it is highly recommended to include more patients in the newly planned studies and another bone-related biomarker should be evaluated simultaneously.

Prediabetes and long-term outcomes in patients with three-vessel coronary artery disease: A large single-center cohort study.

Aims/IntroductionWhether detection of prediabetes by routinely testing hemoglobin A1c and fasting plasma glucose in three‐vessel disease patients could identify individuals at high risk of future cardiovascular disease events remains unclear. This study evaluated the relationship between different glycemic status and clinical outcomes in this specific population.Materials and MethodsThis study included 8,891 Chinese patients with three‐vessel disease. Patients were categorized according to their glycemic status (normoglycemia [NG], n = 3,195; prediabetes, n = 1,978; diabetes mellitus, n = 3,718).ResultsThe median follow‐up time was 7.5 years, during which 1,354 deaths and 2,340 major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events occurred. Compared with the NG group, patients in the prediabetes and diabetes mellitus groups had more comorbidities. After adjusting for confounders, the diabetes mellitus group had a higher risk of all‐cause death (hazard ratio [HR] 1.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20–1.53; P < 0.001), cardiac death (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.14–1.61; P = 0.001) and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.11–1.34; P < 0.001) compared with the NG group, whereas the prediabetes and NG groups had no significant difference. The diabetes mellitus group also had a higher risk of stroke compared with the NG group (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.02–1.46; P = 0.031).ConclusionsIn the context of three‐vessel disease, prediabetes patients have comparable long‐term outcomes in terms of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, cardiac death and all‐cause death to those with NG. Routine screening of glycemic metabolism based on hemoglobin A1c and fasting plasma glucose might be valuable to identify individuals with diabetes mellitus who are at high risk of future cardiovascular disease events and individuals with prediabetes who are at high risk of progressing to diabetes mellitus.

Ephrin B2 mediates high glucose induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in human aortic endothelial cells

Previous study revealed that high glucose (HG) induced endothelial cell (EC) damage via endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Recent studies suggested the role of Ephrin B2 in mediate ECs damage. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether Ephrin B2 mediates HG-induced EndMT in human aortic ECs (HAECs) and to determine the possible downstream signaling effector. Primary HAECs were exposed to normal glucose (NG, 5.5 mM), HG (30 mM) and HG+Ephrin B2 small interfering RNA (siRNA), respectively. The pathological changes were investigated by light microscope and confocal microscopy. To study the effects of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) activation on Ephrin B2 in HAECs, cells were incubated with FAK siRNA in HG group. The expression of EndMT-related markers (CD31 and FSP1), Ephrin B2 and FAK were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. The results showed that HG significantly inhibited the expression of CD31 and increased FSP1 compared with NG group. Moreover, Ephrin B2 was increased after HG incubation. Ephrin B2 siRNA attenuated HG-induced expression of EndMT-related markers. Furthermore, HG increased the expression of FAK and phosphorylated FAK (pho-FAK) in HAECs. In contrast, blocking Ephrin B2 could partially attenuate HG-induced FAK activation. And FAK siRNA further inhibited the EndMT-related markers in HAECs treated with HG. HG-induced EndMT in HAECs might be partially mediated by Ephrin B2 and the downstream FAK pathway.

Nec-1 attenuates inflammation and cytotoxicity induced by high glucose on THP-1 derived macrophages through RIP1

ObjectivesThis research aimed to study whether necrostain-1 (Nec-1) could alleviate inflammatory injury induced by high glucose upon THP-1 derived macrophages through RIP1. DesignFirstly, THP-1 derived macrophages were incubated with 5.5 mM glucose (normal glucose, NG), 25 mM glucose (high glucose, HG), and mannitol as the high osmotic pressure group (5.5 mM glucose+19.5 mM mannitol) for 24, 48, and 72 h respectively. TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 levels were measured by ELISA. Secondly, macrophages were exposed to NG, HG, or HG plus 5 μM necrostatin-1 (Nec-1) for 72 h. mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokine was measured by RT-PCR, and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines and LDH leakage were determined by ELISA. RIP1 expression was determined by RT-PCR and WB. Thirdly, macrophages were transfected with si-RIP1 or negative control (si-NC). Wild type and RIP1-silenced macrophages were incubated with NG or HG, and TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and LDH levels were measured again by ELISA. Results1) TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 levels were elevated in the HG group, as compared with that the NG group. Inflammation remained unchanged in the mannitol group. 2) Inflammatory response and LDH levels in the HG plus Nec-1 group were remarkably lower than in the HG group. 3) Inflammatory injury in the si-NC group was more severe than in the si-RIP1 group. ConclusionsCurrent results indicated that Nec-1 could alleviate HG-caused inflammatory injury on THP-1 derived macrophages by regulating RIP1. These findings could help cast light on the relationships between diabetes and periodontitis.

Effect of fluorescent and nonfluorescent glaze pastes on lithium disilicate pressed ceramic color at different thicknesses

Statement of problemMaterials possessing fluorescent properties are assumed to emit sufficient visible light to change tooth color under daylight illumination. Fluorescent and nonfluorescent glaze pastes are available to finish the surface of a pressed lithium disilicate restoration. However, the effect of a fluorescent-glaze layer on the final color of the restoration remains unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to measure the color dimensions of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic with different thicknesses and different surface treatments under daylight (D65) illumination conditions. Material and methodsA total of 120 pressed lithium disilicate glass-ceramic disks were fabricated with 4 different thicknesses: 0.7, 1.2, 1.7, and 2.2 mm. In each thickness, 3 different subgroups were created based on the surface treatment performed (n=10): polished (NG), clear glaze (CG), and fluorescent glaze (FG). For the NG group, disks were polished with 180-, 320-, 600-, 800-, and 1400-grit SiC papers and a polishing machine. For the glazed groups, the CG and FG groups, the specimens were polished with 180-grit SiC papers and the same polishing machine. After the polishing sequence, the final thickness was verified in all groups by using digital calipers (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm). Additionally, 20 μL of clear glaze or fluorescent glaze was applied on the CG and FL groups by using an electronic positive displacement repeating pipette. The glaze layer was crystallized in a furnace according to the manufacturer recommendations. Color measurements in the CIELab coordinates were made with a spectrometer coupled to an integrating sphere and a standardized photography gray card as a background. Color difference (ΔE) values were calculated by using the CIE76 and CIEDE2000 formulas. The Shapiro-Wilk test revealed that the data were normally distributed. Two-way ANOVA and the Bonferroni test for multiple comparisons were used to analyze the data (α=.05). ResultsStatistically significant differences were found among the groups for the L∗, a∗, and b∗ values for the different ceramic thicknesses and surface finishing treatments evaluated (P<.001), except for the b∗ value between the FG and CG groups (P=.988). The L∗ value on the polished group was significantly higher than that on the glazed specimens, followed by the fluorescent-glazed and then by the clear-glazed specimens (P<.001). The ΔE values using the CIE76 formula varied from 0.87 to 2.76 among specimen groups and from 0.32 to 2.34 using the CIEDE2000 among the tested groups. ConclusionsCeramic thickness and surface finishing treatment affected all color dimensions (L∗, a∗, and b∗ values) of lithium disilicate ceramic under daylight conditions. These differences resulted in a perceptible but acceptable color mismatch. The value (L∗ color dimension) of the lithium disilicate ceramic was higher on fluorescent-glazed than on not–fluorescent-glazed specimens.

High-intensity Interval Training And Resistance Training Favor Higher Improves On Cardio-metabolic Health Outcomes Compared With Combined Training Or Nutritional Guidance In Overweight Adults: Cardiometabolic Hiit-rt Study, A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE: The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee systematically searched existing literature reviews to assess the relationship between high-intensity interval training (HIIT), moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), or resistance training (RT) and reduction in cardiometabolic disease risk. Against this background, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether 12 weeks of HIIT, RT, combination training (CT = HIIT+RT) or a NG plan induced improvement on metabolic syndrome risk factors, vascular function and physical fitness in sedentary and overweight, and to compare the responses between the four intervention groups. METHODS: The study included a total of 57 sedentary subjects with abdominal obesity or excess weight. Twelve-week randomized parallel design examining the effects of different exercise regimes and/or NG on anthropometric and body composition (fat and lean mass at whole body, trunk fat, fat mass index, appendicular muscle mass, and waist circumference); metabolic syndrome risk factors and vascular parameters (blood lipids, fasting glucose, blood pressure, flow-mediated vasodilation [FMD%], aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV), and augmentation index [AIx]); and physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness and grip strength). RESULTS: Adjusted mixed linear models revealed a significant improved in cardiorespiratory fitness (mL·kg·min-1): HIIT +8.3, RT +4.1, and CT +6.3 (all P < 0.001). The improvement difference between the groups was statistically significant between the HIIT and NG group (P = 0.014), [time x group interaction F(23.564); P < 0.001; η2 partial = 0.365]. In addition, RT and CT group, has a significant positive impact on PWV (m·s-1) (d = 0.391 and 0.229 respectively; P < 0.001, [time x group interaction F(5.457); P=0.003; η2 partial = 0.280]. Hereafter, RT group has a significant positive impact on the FMD (%) in comparison to HIIT, CT or NG group (time x group interaction F(2.942); P = 0.044; η2 partial = 0.174). CONCLUSIONS: The main findings of this study are that 12 weeks of HIIT leads to significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness while the RT resulted in improvements in the vascular profile, supporting the positive effect of both training programs for cardiometabolic risk factors in sedentary and overweight adults.

Long-Term Outcomes of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty in Eyes with Prior Glaucoma Surgery

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in eyes that had previously undergone trabeculectomy and/or drainage device implantation. Retrospective, noncomparative case series. Medical records of 251 consecutive DMEK procedures performed by 1 surgeon (S.X.D.) from 2013 to 2017 were reviewed. Patients with ≥2 years of follow-up were divided into 3 groups: eyes with prior glaucoma surgery (ST), eyes with medically treated glaucoma (MT), and eyes without glaucoma (NG). Main outcomes measured were visual acuity, endothelial cell count (ECC), rates of secondary graft failure (SGF), and postoperative complications. Ninety procedures (87 eyes) met inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up period of all eyes was 38.4 ± 11.2months (range, 24.2-64.4months). At last follow-up, the proportion of eyes reaching a vision of ≥20/40 was higher than that before the DMEK procedure in each group (all P < .05). The rate of ECC loss was the highest in the ST group compared to that in the MT and NG groups (63.8% vs 47.6% vs 44.0%, respectively; P < .05) as well as the rate of SGF (41.6% vs 0% vs 2.4%, respectively; P < .05). The rate of SGF of repeat DMEK was higher than that of primary DMEK (P < .05). The rates of postoperative complications were similar among all groups (all P > .05). In eyes with prior glaucoma surgery, DMEK achieved good long-term visual outcomes but experienced a higher rate of SGF than eyes without such comorbidity.

25‑OH‑PPD inhibits hypertrophy on diabetic cardiomyopathy via the PI3k/Akt/GSK‑3β signaling pathway

The present study investigated the inhibitory effects and the associated mechanism of the compound 25-OH-PPD (PPD) on cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation. The signaling pathways associated with diabetic mellitus cardiomyopathy (DMCM) were investigated using a rat model. DMCM Sprague-Dawley rats were induced by injection of streptozotocin. The animals were divided into 5 groups as follows: Normal group (NG group), diabetic group, PPD treatment group, PPD/LY294002 group (inhibitor of PI3K/Akt) and PPD/LiCl group [inhibitor of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) 3β]. The studies were carried out during the 12 weeks following induction of diabetes and the levels of plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), creatine phosphokinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) were measured. In addition, the volume of myocardial collagen fraction (CVF) was tested. The expression levels of the inflammatory cytokines, including transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), cell adhesion molecules α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vascular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) and associated signaling proteins (Akt, GSK-3β) were measured by biochemical analyses. The levels of BNP and CK-MB, the volume of CVF, the expression levels of TGF-β1, CTGF, α-SMA and VCAM-1 in the diabetic group were higher compared with those of the normal control group (P<0.05). Conversely, the levels of these molecules were significantly decreased in the PPD treatment groups (P<0.05). The aforementioned effects were partially eliminated in the PPD/LY294002 and PPD/LiCl groups. In addition, PPD treatment significantly increased the expression levels of p-Akt and decreased the levels of phosphorylated GSK-3β compared with those of the DMCM group (P<0.05). The data demonstrated that the protective effects of 25-OH-PPD against DMCM may be attributed to the PI3k/Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway, via the suppression of the α-SMA/VCAM axis and the downregulation of TGF-β1 and CTGF expression.

TO COMPARE GAVAGE, CUP AND PALADY FEEDING METHODS IN TERMS OF ECONOMY IN PRETERM NEWBORN

Background: UNICEF and WHO recommended that children be exclusively breastfed during the first six months of life. Breast milk is uncontaminated and contains all nutrients necessary for children in the first few months of life.&#x0D; Methods: This randomized control trial conducted at Umaid hospital, attached to Dr. S.N Medical College, Jodhpur. All preterm neonates with a gestational age between 30 to 34 weeks as defined below were included in the study after a written informed consent. A total of 100 neonates, those meeting the inclusion criteria were taken in the study. These neonates were randomized into four groups – NG group, OG group, Palady group, and Cup group by block randomization comprising of 25 neonates each.&#x0D; Results- The mean expenditure in NG, OG, PALADY and CUP groups were 15427±10317 Rs., 17065±6807 Rs., 9231±1790 Rs. and 7319±1657 Rs. respectively. The difference was statistically significant for NG vs PALADY, NG vs CUP, OG vs PALADY, OG vs CUP and PALADY vs CUP.&#x0D; Conclusion: we conclude that feeding in preterm low birth weight neonates who cannot breast feed is best achieved by cup which was found to be the most economical method. Neonates on cup feeding required less expertise. Once mastered under supervision, cup feeding can be used independently in-home setting and in remote areas with less technical manpower at hand.&#x0D; Keywords: Feeding, Cup, Palady, OG.

Efficacy of Aflibercept Treatment and Its Effect on the Retinal Perfusion in the Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model of Retinopathy of Prematurity

Introduction: Bevacizumab and ranibizumab, which are anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications, are used frequently in the treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants. Aflibercept, or VEGF Trap, has been used anecdotally, but translation and clinical studies are lacking. Objective: This study investigates the efficacy of aflibercept at reducing areas of non-perfused retina and studies its effect on normal angiogenesis in the oxygen-induced retinopathy mouse model of ROP. Methods: C57BL/6 J mice were assigned to room air control (n = 21 eyes) or hyperoxia with 75% oxygen (n = 84 eyes). The hyperoxic mice were assigned to 1 of 3 groups: 0 ng (n = 14 eyes), 100 ng (n = 35 eyes), or 1,000 ng (n = 35 eyes) of intravitreal aflibercept administered on postnatal day 14. Eyes were enucleated at PN17 and PN25 postinjection. Retinas were stained with anti-collagen IV antibody and photographed with microscopy. Areas of perfused and non-perfused retina were quantified using ImageJ software. Statistical comparisons were made using ANOVA with Tukey post hoc comparisons. Results: At PN17, there was no significant difference in the area of non-perfused retina between the hyperoxic control and the 100 and 1,000 ng aflibercept groups. At PN25, the 100 ng (p < 0.05) and 1,000 ng (p = 0.008) treatment groups displayed less non-perfusion compared to hyperoxic controls. At the 1,000 ng dose, there was increased non-perfusion compared to the 100 ng dose (p = 0.02). There was reduced non-perfusion by PN25 compared to PN17 for the 100 ng group (p < 0.05), with no difference in the 1,000 ng group. Conclusions: The study shows that the area of non-perfused retina decreases effectively with aflibercept at PN25 with 100 ng dosage. With the 1,000 ng dosage, there is an inhibition of the physiologic angiogenesis with a higher area of non-perfused retina.

Does Human Milk Insulin Help Program Infant Pancreatic Function? Variation in Neonatal Human Milk Insulin Is Associated with Later Measures of Infant Glycemic Control

Abstract Objectives Whether variation in human milk (HM) insulin contributes to neonatal blood sugar regulation and pancreatic programming remains unknown. This pilot study investigates whether HM insulin concentrations correlate with infant pancreatic function in exclusively breastfed 5-month old infants. We hypothesize that neonatal exposure to elevated HM insulin will “under stimulate” the infant pancreas, resulting in an exaggerated glycemic response to oral glucose at 5 months. Methods Exclusively breastfed infants of normoglycemic mothers (NG; n = 5) and mothers with minor insulin resistance (IR; n = 5) were administered a 1.75 g/kg oral glucose challenge. Infant capillary glucose was assessed at Fasting (&amp;gt;2 hours), 30 minutes (T30) and 60 minute (T60) after glucose administration. Fasting HM insulin was measured at 2-weeks and 5-months. Repeated Measures ANOVA and linear regression analyses were utilized. Results Using repeated measures analysis, the IR group exhibited a more dramatic glycemic response to the glucose challenge (P = 0.031): exhibiting lower fasting glucose (P = 0.085; n = 10) and higher glucose excursion from fasting to T30 (P = 0.007) compared to the NG group. HM insulin did not differ between the NW and IR groups at 2-weeks or 5-months. However, higher HM insulin concentrations at 2-weeks did correlate with a more dramatic infant glycemic response to oral glucose at 5 months. Fasting HM insulin at 2 weeks was positively associated with infant glucose at T30 (P = 0.033) and with the increase in glucose from fasting to T30 (P = 0.081; n = 8). Furthermore, fasting HM insulin at 2-weeks was negatively associated with infant glucose at T60 (P = 0.031) and the change in glucose from T30-T60 (P = 0.032; n = 7). Conclusions These pilot results suggest that HM insulin may contribute to postnatal programming of infant pancreatic function such that chronic exposure to elevated HM insulin may result in a dampened pancreatic response to an oral glucose challenge. Confirmation in a larger sample size is necessary. Funding Sources NIH/NIDDK; The Gerber Foundation.