Pre-injection Period Research Articles

Asset injection and enterprise earnings management

This paper selects listed companies that have made significant asset injections between 2006 and 2022 as a research sample to explore the relationship between listed companies and earnings management after they have made asset injections. It is found that compared with the pre-injection period, the degree of earnings management is higher after capital injection by shareholders holding relatively more shares in listed companies than before; the more substantial the managerial ability and the greater the analysts' attention are, the higher the degree of earnings management is after significant asset injection by major shareholders compared with the pre-injection period.

Comparison of Functional Outcome of Single Versus Multiple Intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for Early Osteoarthritis Knee.

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability and has a negative impact on patients' quality of life. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising treatment for various orthopaedic conditions, such as tendinopathies, nonunion, and arthritis of the knee. We sought to determine whether a single intra-articular platelet-rich plasma injection has better functional and pain outcomes when compared with multiple (two) articular platelet-rich plasma injections given in the early stages of OA of the knee, measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and the visual analogue scale for pain (VAS) at the sixth week, third month, and sixth month. Materials and methods The prospective observational study was conducted among patients diagnosed with early OA who presented to the Department of Orthopaedics, R. L. Jalappa Hospital and Research Centre, Kolar, Karnataka, India, between January 2020 and June 2021. A total of 64 patients were divided into: (i) S-PRP group (34 patients), which received a single PRP injection, and (ii) M-PRP group (30 patients), which received multiple (two) PRP injections, one on presentation and the second in the thirdmonth. VAS and WOMAC scores to assess functional outcomes were used at the first visit before the intervention and at the sixth week, third month, and sixth month. Results The average age of the patients was 55.26 years in the S-PRP group and 51.13 years in the M-PRP group. Both genders were equal among study participants in the M-PRP group, but 79.4% were females in the S-PRP group.In the S-PRP group, 74% had grade II OA and 26% had grade I OA. In the M-PRP group, 60% had grade II OA and the remaining 40% had grade I OA. The decreasing trend of pain and functional limitation, which was measured by VAS and WOMAC, respectively, was observed in both groups at pre-injection, sixth week, third month, and sixth month. These differences were statistically significant. The mean difference in VAS score between the pre-injection period and at six months was 4 in the S-PRP group, whereas it was 5.77 in the M-PRP group, and this was statistically significant (p-value = 0.001). Thus, multiple PRP injections have a greater response to pain reduction when compared to single PRP injections, according to the VAS score.According to the WOMAC score, there is no statistically significant difference in the treatment response with PRP injection between the S-PRP and M-PRP groups at any follow-up period. Conclusion According to the VAS score, single PRP injections have a lower pain score than multiple PRP injections until three months of follow-up, while at six months, single PRP injections have no better effect than multiple PRP injections. But multiple PRP injections have a higher reduction in the intensity of pain when compared to single PRP injections during the follow-up period. According to the WOMAC score, there is no statistically significant difference in the treatment response with PRP injection between S-PRP and M-PRP groups.

COVID-19 pandemisi sürecinde ileri evre gonartrozu olan hastalarda eklem içi enjeksiyonlar ağrı yönetiminde etkili midir? Tek merkez deneyimi.

Background: Primary gonarthrosis is a progressive disease that increases with age and leads to limitations in activities of daily living. Until surgery is performed, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intraarticular injections, and physical therapy methods are used.
 Purpose: This study aims to compare the clinical outcomes of intra- articular corticosteroid (CCS) and hyaluro nic acid (HA) injections for pain relief in primary gonartrhosis in COVID -19 pandemic period.
 Study Design: Retrospective Cohort Study.
 Methods: In this study, 88 patients who underwent intra-articular CCS and HA injection between August 2020 and March 2021 due to Kellgren-Lawrence stage 2 and higher gonarthrosis were investigated. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I represents the patients who received HA injections, and group II represents the patients who received CCS injection. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and Knee Society Score (KSS) scores were used for the preoperative and postoperative functional evaluations of the patients. 
 Results: Group I included 40 patients and group II included 48 patients. The mean age was 59.4 ± 7.3 years, and the average follow-up period was 12 ± 2,6 months. The pre-intervention WOMAC scores were 13,5 in Group I and 13.6 in Group II, KSS scores were 26,5 in Group I and 25,2 in Group II. While there was a significant change in the control at month 1 in both groups, no difference was found between the groups. At the 6th month control, the improvement in group 1 continued at a significant level compared to the pre-injection period, while group 2 returned to the pre-injection level. (p

The effect of steroid injection into the shoulder on glycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes.

BackgroundInjections of corticosteroids into or around joints have been reported to increase blood glucose in patients with diabetes due to corticosteroid absorption into the bloodstream. However, the magnitude, duration, and clinical implications of local corticosteroid injections on glycemic control are not clear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of corticosteroid injection to the shoulder on glycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using a continuous glucose monitoring device.MethodsTwenty-five patients with symptomatic shoulder problems and type 2 diabetes mellitus, not treated with insulin, prescribed a corticosteroid injection into the shoulder, were investigated. The patients were connected to a flash glucose monitoring system, which continuously monitored interstitial glucose levels. Data were collected 3 days before injection and for additional 11 days after corticosteroid injection. We analyzed glucose levels in the first 3 days (early postinjection) and on days 4-11 (late postinjection) after the injection and compared them to the preinjection period. The outcome measures included change in the average glucose levels, per patient, between the preinjection and postinjection periods and the differences in the time spent at glucose >180 mg/dL, >250 mg/dL, and >350 mg/dL, per patient, between the preinjection and postinjection periods.ResultsThe increase in the mean glucose level per patient was statistically significant from 136 mg/dL in the preinjection period to 159 mg/dL in the first 3 days after the injection and returned to normal thereafter. Time at blood glucose >250 mg/dL increased from 4.3% in the preinjection period to 9.5% on the first day after the injection. It then decreased to 7% on day 2, 3.8% on day 3, and 1.4% in the late postinjection period. New onset of glucose levels >350 mg/dL was found in 4 of 25 patients during the early postinjection period. In all 4 patients, the exposure to severe hyperglycemia (>350 mg/dL) was short. None of the patients required intensification of the antidiabetic treatment or insulin injections.ConclusionLocal corticosteroid injection to the shoulder can create a significant, short-term increase in systemic glucose levels in patients with D2DM not treated with insulin. Some of these patients may have periods with glucose above 350 mg %. However, these glycemic changes are short lived and are mostly limited to the 2-3 days after the injection. In addition, none of the patients in our study needed any change in antidiabetic treatment or any medical care after the injection.

A comparison between effectiveness of gluteal trigger point and epidural steroid injection in lumbosacral canal stenosis patients: a randomized clinical trial

Background Lumbosacral Spinal Stenosis (LSS) is a degenerative spine disease and a major cause of pain and disability, especially in geriatrics. Primary symptom control in patients with LSS includes conservative treatment and non-surgical methods. In this study, we aimed to compare the effect of steroid injection via epidural and gluteal trigger point techniques. Methods Patients aged 40–75 years old who had pain and other clinical signs of spinal stenosis in the last 6 months were included in our study and divided into two groups of gluteal trigger point (TP) or epidural steroid injection (ESI). The patients were evaluated based on the visual analog scale (VAS), Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Quebec back pain disability scales during their pre-injection period and 2 weeks after follow-ups till 8 weeks. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results A total of 44 patients were included in our study. The TP group had a significant decrease in comparison with their follow-ups; however, in the epidural group, the significant decrease was only observed compared to the pre-injection period and the scores did not have any significant decreases after the second week regarding the ODI, RQM, and VAS scales. The TP group demonstrated significantly higher scores of decreases of ODI and Quebec score compared to the epidural group at weeks 4 and 8. Regarding RQM, the TP groups demonstrated significantly higher scores of decreases compared to the epidural group at weeks 2, 4 and 8. (p < 0.001 p = 0.008, and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion Both epidural and TP steroid injection significantly reduced the patients’ pain and improved their QoL and function; however, more satisfactory results were observed in the TP group during the patients’ follow-ups, while the epidural group demonstrated only statistically significant improvement during the short-term follow-up.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME IN EARLY OSTEOARTHRITIS OF KNEE WITH TWO DOSES OF PLATELET RICH PLASMA OUR EXPERIENCE.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disorder of synovial joints in which there is gradual softening and disintegration of articular cartilage accompanied by the new growth of cartilage and bone at the joint margins(Osteophytes), cyst formation and sclerosis in the subchondral bone, mild synovitis, and capsular brosis. It differs from simple wear and tears in that it is asymmetrically distributed, often localized to only one part of a joint i.e., weight bearing, and often associated with abnormal loading rather than frictional wear. It is a dynamic phenomenon and shows features of both destruction and repair. Cartilage softening and disintegration are accompanied from the very outset by hyperactive new bone formation, osteophyte formation and remodeling. Osteoarthritis is an age-related phenomenon, and it affects more than 80% of people greater than 55 years of age. Body mass index (BMI) plays a vital role in osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints. People with obese or overweight were approximately 4.6 times more likely to have knee OA than normalweight individuals. In addition people with metabolic and endocrine disorders are also more prone for osteoarthritis at an early age. Methods: Sixty patients suffering from grade1and 2 osteoarthritis knee joint who attended the outpatient department of orthopaedics, King George hospital, Visakhapatnam between November 2018 to October 2020 were included in the study. Informed and written consent was taken from the patients. General physical examination was done. Neurovascular status of both lower limbs was also examined. X-ray of both knee joints in antero-posterior and lateral views were taken in standing position. Routine pre-injection WOMAC and VAS score were recorded. Under aseptic conditions, two platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections were injected into the knee joint at four weeks interval. Functional status of the knee was evaluated using WOMAC and VAS score at one, three and six week's interval. This study is a anlyticl comparative study. Results: There is a signicant difference in the VAS score and WOMAC score before giving an injection and after giving an injection, in patients with grade 1 and grade 2 osteoarthritis. The visual analogue score showed a mean of 7.16 at pre-injection period, which decreased to 5.95 at 1st week and 4.81 at 3rd week and 4.06 at six weeks follow up. Conclusion: In the present study the effectiveness of two aliquots of PRP injection was evaluated. Although studies including more than 2 PRP injections and more advanced stages of osteoarthritis were compared, the time frame was xed to 6 weeks. The functional outcome of the patient was better after 2nd dose of PRP. The present study concluded that two doses of PRP injection decreases the joint pain, alleviates the symptoms and enhances the activity of daily living and quality of life in short term duration.

Activation of Norepinephrine Neurons in the NTS (A2 population) is Sufficient to Suppress Pulsatile LH Secretion in Female Mice

The overarching goal of this work is to identify neural pathways underlying inhibition of pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion during stress. Stress-induced suppression of LH secretion is mediated, at least in part, by suppression of arcuate kisspeptin (ARCKiss1) neurons. The mechanisms by which acute stress suppresses ARCKiss1 cell activity are largely unknown; however, several lines of evidence support the hypothesis that A2 neurons (norepinephrine [NE] neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract [NTS] of the brainstem) are involved. First, A2 cells are activated during several reactive stress paradigms. Second, NE administered into the paraventricular nucleus, which is innervated by A2 neurons, suppressed pulsatile LH secretion. Finally, ablation of brainstem NE neurons restored estrous cyclicity following chronic glucoprivation (chronic metabolic stress model). The present study employed chemogenetics to test the hypothesis that A2 neurons are sufficient to suppress pulsatile LH secretion in ovariectomized female dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) Cre positive and negative (wild type) mice. Mice received bilateral injections of either a Cre-dependent stimulatory Designer Receptor Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADD) virus (AAV1-DIO-hM3Dq-mCherry) or a control virus (AAV1-DIO-mCherry) into the NTS. Mice were randomly assigned to receive either clozapine N-oxide (CNO, specific DREADD agonist; 1mg/kg, i.p.) or saline and blood samples were collected at 6-min intervals for 60 min before and 90 min after injection. Two weeks later, mice received the alternate treatment in a cross-over design (n= 5-10/grp). During the pre-injection period, all mice had clear LH pulses (mean: 6.0 ± 0.2 ng/mL, pulses/60 min: 3.4 ± 1.5). In DBH Cre- (wild type) mice with hM3D virus and DBH Cre+ with mCherry virus (both control groups), neither CNO nor saline altered mean LH or LH pulse frequency. However, DBH Cre+ mice with hM3D virus had a 54% reduction in mean LH (p < 0.05) and 59% reduction in pulse frequency (p < 0.05) following CNO; neither LH metric was altered in response to saline. To assess transduction efficiency, fixed neural tissue was collected. In tissue analyzed thus far, DBH Cre+ mice have mCherry labeling in ~70% of DBH-immunoreactive neurons in the NTS and >90% of mCherry neurons contained DBH immunoreactivity. Three DBH Cre+ mice with hM3D virus mice had no LH response to CNO and may represent missed viral injections, which will be determined when tissue is analyzed. These data demonstrate that activation of A2 neurons is sufficient to impair pulsatile LH secretion in female mice. Moreover, these data support the broad hypothesis that the A2 population of neurons is critical for modulating neuroendocrine function during stress and raises the possibility that A2 neurons directly or indirectly influence ARCKiss1 cell activity.

Intra-Articular Methylprednisolone Injection for Advanced Osteoarthritis in Geriatric Patient Population

Background: We aimed to investigate the effect of intra-articular methylprednisolone injection on pain and functional outcomes and the number of outpatient clinic admissions in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis in the geriatric age group. Method: The files of 78 patients over the age of 65 who were administered intra-articular methylprednisolone injection with the diagnosis of primary gonarthrosis between 2018 and 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Age, gender, and affected side of the patients were recorded. The number of outpatient clinic admissions, VAS and Womac scores before and after injection were evaluated statistically. Results: Of the patients, 18 were male (24.7%) and 55 were female (75.3%). The mean age was 74.95±7.11 years. The values of the patients' WOMAC and VPS scores at the 1st and 3rd months were significantly lower than the pre-injection period. Compared to the number of outpatient visits in the 6-month period before injection, the decrease in the number of outpatient visits in the 6-month period after injection was statistically significant. A strong positive correlation was found between the number of outpatient visits before injection and the first VPS score. Conclusions: In geriatric patients with advanced-stage osteoarthritis who do not accept total knee arthroplasty, intra-articular methylprednisolone injection may be a feasible method that reduces pain and the number of outpatient visits in the short term.

Role of autologus platelet rich plasma in early stages of osteoarthritis of knee

Background: In the treatment of early stage osteoarthritis with intraarticular injection there are many available options as steroid, hyaluronic acid and platelet rich plasma. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate of autologous blood growth factors which has been shown to provide some symptomatic relief in early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The Aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Platelet Rich Plasma in reducing pain and improving physical function. Materials and Method: A Prospective study of 30 Patient with Early stage ( Stage 1 and 2 ) of Osteoarthritis who satisfies the inclusion criteria from August 2019 to June 2020 in Bapuji Hospital and Chigateri Government Hospital attached to JJM Medical College, Davangere. All patients were injected with autologous platelet rich plasma and evaluated for VAS (Visual analog scale) and WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities) scoring system on (pre-procedure) day 0 and (post-procedure) at the end of 4 weeks, 12 weeks,24weeks. Result: In our study age distribution revealed mean age in is to be 46.6 years. The gender distribution of 66.66% of male and 33.33% of female. The mean BMI of the patient is 25.65. In this study 43.33% belong to Grade 1 and 56.66% patient belong to Grade 2 classification according to Kellgren Lawrence classification of OA knee. The Global WOMAC showed a mean of 61.3 at pre injection period which decreased to 48.46 at 4 weeks follow up and 37.90 at 12 weeks and declining to 27.33 at 24week.The mean VAS score showed 6.33 at pre injection period which decreased to 4.4 at 4 weeks follow up and 2.5 at 12 weeks and declining to 1.76 at 24week. Conclusion: Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a simple, low-cost and minimally invasive intervention which is feasible to deliver to treat degenerative lesions of articular cartilage of the knee.

Ultrasound-guided Platelet-rich Plasma Application Versus Corticosteroid Injections for the Treatment of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: A Prospective Controlled Randomized Comparative Clinical Study.

PurposeThe purpose of this clinical study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of ultrasound (US)-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections versus US-guided corticosteroid injections (CSI) in the treatment of greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS).MethodsBetween January 2015 and December 2016, 24 patients with GTPS were enrolled and randomized in two groups (A and B). Group A (study group) patients received US-guided PRP injection treatment, while group B (control group) patients received US-guided CSI treatment. Clinical outcomes in both groups were evaluated and compared using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain, the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and the presence or absence of complications at 4, 12, and 24 weeks post-injection. The level of significance was set at p<0.05.ResultsBoth groups showed improved scores (VAS and HHS) compared to the pre-injection period, but patients in group A had a statistically significant (p <0.05) decrease in VAS score and a significantly increased HHS at the last follow-up (24 weeks post-injection). No complications were reported.ConclusionsIn conclusion, patients with GTPS present better and longer-lasting clinical results when treated with US-guided PRP injections compared to those with CSI. Further studies are needed to optimize the technical preparation of PRP, the sample concentration, the number of injections and the time intervals between them, in order to achieve the maximum desired results.

Comparative Outcomes of Platelet Rich Plasma, Autologous Blood and Corticosteroid Injections in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

Comparative Outcomes of Platelet Rich Plasma, Autologous Blood and Corticosteroid Injections in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis ABSTRACT Objectives Lateral epicondylitis is a disorder in which the dominant extremity is usually affected, and its prevalence ranges between 1% and 3% in the general population. It appears to be more common and severe in women between ages 30 and 60. Platelet rich plasma (PRP), autologous blood and corticosteroid injections are widely applied treatment modalities with various success rates. We aimed to investigate clinical outcomes of these three injection techniques. Study Design is Prospective randomized clinical trial. Methods Fifty two patients (19 men, 33 women) whom were diagnosed lateral epicondylitis between the years 2011 and 2013, with a mean age 43,7years (min 18, max 62) were randomized into three groups according to application order. Each group received one of the injection treatments: PRP, autologous blood or corticosteroid. Comparative clinical outcomes evaluated prospectively. Assessments performed by a blind evaluator by visual analog scale (VAS), presence of tenderness, QuickDASH scores, grip strength measurements in pre-injection period and in post-injection first, third and sixth months. Statistical analyses performed in SPSS 21 software by Pearson’s chi-squared, Anova, Kruskar Wallis and McNemar tests. Results Changes of VAS and QuickDASH scores in each group were significant according to pre-injection and post-injection first, third, sixth month evaluations (p

The Effects of Intravitreal Ranibizumab, Aflibercept or Dexamethasone Implant Injections on Intraocular Pressure Changes.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to compare the alterations in intraocular pressure (IOP) values during the early postoperative period after intravitreal ranibizumab, aflibercept, or dexamethasone implant injections.Material/MethodsIn this retrospective study, a total of 188 patients were grouped into 3 groups: the ranibizumab group, the aflibercept group, and the dexamethasone group. Ocular axial length (AXL) and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were measured in the pre-injection period. IOP was measured just before the injection at 1 minute,10 minutes, 1 hour, 1 day, and 1 month after injection.ResultsThere was a transient peak in the ranibizumab group and the aflibercept group at 1 minute that started to decrease at 10 minutes and IOP values returned to preoperative values at approximately 1 hour. Similar alterations were also determined for the dexamethasone group with a lesser increase noted. In the correlation analysis, only alterations in IOP levels at 1 minute were negatively correlated with preoperative AXL values. There was not any correlation between preoperative AXL or ACD values and IOP alterations at any other time points.ConclusionsThere was a sudden, transient increase in IOP values after intravitreal ranibizumab or aflibercept injections; which return to normal values in a short time without requirement of any medical treatments. This transient peak was determined to be negatively correlated with the preoperative AXL.

Reactive transport simulation to assess geochemical impact of impurities on CO2 injection into siliciclastic reservoir at the Otway site, Australia

It is generally recognized that the removal of impurities from CO2 obtained from coal-fired flue gas carbon capture systems can significantly increase the cost of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). During the period from September to December 2014, the CO2CRC in collaboration with Callide Oxyfuel Services Pty Ltd conducted a series of CO2 injection tests into the Paaratte formation (Otway Basin, Victoria, Australia) utilizing product CO2 (near food grade) and product CO2 with added impurities (nominal SO2: 67ppmv, O2: 6150ppmv and NOx: 9ppmv) from the Callide Oxyfuel Project. The purpose of the injection testing was to assess the geochemical effect of the CO2 injected with water on the siliciclastic reservoir. The geochemical test, which was designed and conducted by CO2CRC, consists of water production, Test 1 (injection of CO2-saturated water without impurities), and Test 2 (injection of CO2-saturated water with impurities). In this paper, 2-D radial reactive transport simulations of injection tests were carried out using TOUGHREACT, including: (1) simulation of the pre-injection period from Otway Stage 2B Test in 2011 to the start of the geochemical test; (2) simulations of the pure CO2 and the impure CO2 cases; (3) long-term simulation of the impure CO2 case; and (4) simulations of injection of CO2-saturated water with various impurity concentrations. The numerical model was able to reproduce the observed geochemical changes during the geochemical test. The results indicate that there were negligible differences between the pure CO2 and the impure CO2 cases for both changes in water chemistry and mineralogy, if SO2 or O2 was less than 1000ppmv. Based on this evaluation of both field test results and simulations, by extrapolation it is concluded that co-injection of impurity gases (up to 1000ppmv SO2 and 1000ppmv O2) with CO2 would have insignificant impacts on the reservoir at the Otway site. In the long-term simulation, the distribution area of residual gas in the reservoir was small and the pH of the formation water was near neutral after 1000 years. Moreover, it was predicted that the water disturbed by CO2 impurities would come close to the initial geochemical conditions in the long-term, and that it is highly probable that the long-term impact after 1000 years would become much less compared to the short-term impact in the test period. The method and model presented here was suitable for the Otway site test and would be applicable to other CO2 storage sites with similar conditions.

Ketamine changes the local resting-state functional properties of anesthetized-monkey brain

ObjectiveKetamine is a well-known anesthetic. ‘Recreational’ use of ketamine common induces psychosis-like symptoms and cognitive impairments. The acute and chronic effects of ketamine on relevant brain circuits have been studied, but the effects of single-dose ketamine administration on the local resting-state functional properties of the brain remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of single-dose ketamine administration on the brain local intrinsic properties. MethodsWe used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) to explore the ketamine-induced alterations of brain intrinsic properties. Seven adult rhesus monkeys were imaged with rs-fMRI to examine the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) in the brain before and after ketamine injection. Paired comparisons were used to detect the significantly altered regions. ResultsResults showed that the fALFF of the prefrontal cortex (p=0.046), caudate nucleus (left side, p=0.018; right side, p=0.025), and putamen (p=0.020) in post-injection stage significantly increased compared with those in pre-injection period. The ReHo of nucleus accumbens (p=0.049), caudate nucleus (p=0.037), and hippocampus (p=0.025) increased after ketamine injection, but that of prefrontal cortex decreased (p<0.05). ConclusionsThese findings demonstrated that single-dose ketamine administration can change the regional intensity and synchronism of brain activity, thereby providing evidence of ketamine-induced abnormal resting-state functional properties in primates. This evidence may help further elucidate the effects of ketamine on the cerebral resting status.

A study of the role of platelet rich plasma in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

A study of the role of platelet rich plasma in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

Electromyography-Guided Botulinum Toxin Injection Into the Cricothyroid Muscles in Bilateral Vocal Fold Abductor Paralysis.

ObjectivesBilateral vocal fold abductor paralysis (BVFAP) both deteriorates quality of life and may cause life-threatening respiratory problems. The aim of this study was to reduce respiratory symptoms in BVFAP patients using cricothyroid (CT) botulinum toxin (BTX) injection.MethodsBefore and 2 weeks and 4 months after bilateral BTX injection into the CT muscles under electromyography; alterations in respiratory, acoustic, aerodynamic and quality of life parameters were evaluated in BVFAP patients with respiratory distress. For the respiratory evaluation modified Borg scale and spirometry, for the voice and aerodynamic evaluations Voice Handicap Index-30 (VHI-30), GRBAS, acoustic analysis (sound pressure level, F0, jitter%, shimmer%, noise-to-harmonic ratio) and maximum phonation time and for the quality of life assessment Short Form-36 (SF-36) form were used.ResultsAll patients were female with a mean age of 47±8.1 years. There was a mean time of 11.8±5.5 (minimum 2, maximum 23) months between BVFAP development and BTX injection. In all cases, other than one case with unknown aetiology, the cause of vocal fold paralysis was prior thyroid surgery. In total 18.6±3.1 units of BTX were applied to the CTs. In the preinjection period, and the 2nd week and 4th month after injection, the Borg dyspnea scale was 7.3/5.3/5.0, FIV1 (forced inspiratory volume in one second) was 1.7/1.7/1.8 L, peak expiratory flow (PEF) was 1.4/1.7/2.1 L/sec, maximum phonation time was 7.0/6.4/6.2 seconds and VHI-30 was 63.2/52.2/61.7 respectively. There was no significant alteration in acoustic analysis parameters. Many of the patients reported transient dysphagia within the first week. There were insignificant increases in SF-36 sub-scale values.ConclusionAfter BTX injection, improvements in the mean Borg score, PEF and FIV1 values and SF-36 sub-scale scores showed the restricted success of this approach. This modality may be kept in mind as a transient treatment option for patients refused persistent tracheotomy or ablative airway surgeries.

Illinois Basin – Decatur Project pre-injection microseismic analysis

The Illinois Basin – Decatur Project (IBDP) is a large-scale carbon dioxide (CO2) injection and storage demonstration project. Over a three-year period one million metric tons of CO2 were injected deep into the Mt. Simon Sandstone, a deep saline reservoir in the Illinois Basin. This study examines the microseismic data gathered for the period from May 2010 to November 2011, which preceded the CO2 injection.Microseismic events are detected through permanent geophone arrays installed in two wells. A CO2 injection well drilled to the depth of 7236 feet (2205m) is outfitted with a 4-component geophone array. Situated approximately 185ft away (56m), the 3502 feet (1067m) deep geophysical monitoring well contains a 3-component geophone array.During the pre-injection period, a total of 7894 microseismic events were detected and 99% of these correlate with drilling and other well-related operations. Eight local microseismic events were identified that appear unrelated to well activity and appear representative of the background level of microseismicity.Regional seismicity was also examined by changing triggering parameters and producing a second dataset. Under this configuration, the system detected twelve regional seismic events that correlate to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) earthquake record, and approximately 1100 distant events are believed associated with quarry-related blasting operations.

A study of the reciprocal relationship between the thermal and behavioral effects mediated by anandamide

The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in thermal control and modulates several behaviors, such as locomotion and food intake (FI) that may affect the body temperature (Tb). To test whether the changes in Tb induced by anandamide (AEA) are related to behavioral changes, adult Wistar rats received an intracerebroventricular injection of AEA (0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 μg) and vehicle. Total FI was weighted daily, and Tb and spontaneous locomotor activity (SLA) were simultaneously and continuously recorded. AEA induced an increase in Tb without changing SLA and FI. For all doses tested, the Tb average in the post-injection period was higher than in the pre-injection period. The higher thermal effect was verified using a dose of 10.0 μg AEA, starting within the first hour post-injection, and was maintained for 8h after treatment. A dose-dependent thermal effect was observed (r=0.953; p<0.05) at 1h post-injection. Hypoactivity was verified only at a dose of 1.0 μg AEA. As expected, both the Tb and SLA values during the dark phase were always higher than during the light phase and were positively correlated (r=0.834, p<0.001); however, this correlation was inverted (r=-0.852, p<0.01) after the rats received 10.0 μg AEA. In summary, our results suggest that brain AEA induces an increase in Tb, and that this effect may occur independently of changes in both locomotion and FI. Moreover, it is possible that the hypolocomotion induced by AEA could be an adaptive response to the increased Tb.

Thermal effect induced by anandamide is dissociated of locomotor and feeding behavior (1105.5)

The endocannabinoid system has an important role on thermal control and modulates behaviors that may affect the body temperature (Tb), such as locomotion and food intake (FI). In order to test whether changes on Tb induced by anandamide (AEA) are related with behavioral changes, rats received an i.c.v. injection of AEA (0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 μg) and vehicle. Total FI was daily weighted, and both Tb and spontaneous locomotor activity (SLA) were simultaneous and continuously recorded. AEA induced increase on Tb without changes on SLA and FI. For all doses tested, the Tb average at post‐injection period was higher than pre‐injection period. Higher termal effect was verified by 10.0 μg of AEA, starting within the first hour post‐injection, being maintained for 8 hours after treatment. At the first hour, a dose‐dependent thermal effect was observed (r = 0.953; p&lt;0.05). Hypoactivity was verified only for 1.0 μg of AEA. As expected, both Tb and SLA values at dark phase were always higher than at light phase with a positive correlation between them (r = 0.834, p&lt;0.001), however this correlation was inverted (r = ‐0.852, p&lt;0.01) after 10.0 μg of AEA. In summary, our results suggest that brain AEA induces increase of Tb, and this effect may occur independently of changes in both locomotion and FI. Moreover, it is possible that hypolocomotion induced by AEA could be an adaptive response due to increased Tb.Grant Funding Source: CNPQ, Capes and Fapemig

Efficacy and tolerability of the galanin analog NAX 5055 in the multiple-hit rat model of symptomatic infantile spasms

Infantile spasms are seizures manifesting in infantile epileptic encephalopathies that are associated with poor epilepsy and cognitive outcomes. The current therapies are not always effective or are associated with serious side effects. Early cessation of spasms has been proposed to improve long-term outcomes. To identify new therapies for infantile spasms with rapid suppression of spasms, we are using the multiple-hit rat model of infantile spasms, which is a model of refractory infantile spasms. Here, we are testing the efficacy and tolerability of a single dose of the galanin receptor 1 preferring analog, NAX 5055, in the multiple-hit model of spasms. To induce the model, postnatal day 3 (PN3) male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent right intracerebral infusions of doxorubicin and lipopolysaccharide; p-chlorophenylalanine was then injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) at PN5. After the onset of spasms at PN4, 11-14 rats/group were injected i.p. with either NAX 5055 (0.5, 1, 2, or 4mg/kg) or vehicle. Video monitoring for spasms included a 1h pre-injection period, followed by 5h of recording post-injection, and two 2h sessions on PN5. The study was conducted in a randomized, blinded manner. Neurodevelopmental reflexes were assessed daily as well as at 2h after injection. Respiratory function, heart rate, pulse distension, oximetry and blood glucose were measured 4h after injection. The relative expression of GalR1 and GalR2 mRNA over β-actin in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus was determined with real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. There was no acute effect of NAX 5055 on spasm frequency after the single dose of NAX 5055 (n=11-13 rats/group, following exclusions). Neurodevelopmental reflexes, vital signs, blood glucose measured 4h post-injection, and survival were not affected. A reduction in pulse and breath distention of unclear clinical significance was observed with the 7mg/kg NAX 5055 dose. GalR1 mRNA was present in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of PN4 and adult rats. The hippocampal - but not the cortical - GalR1 mRNA expression was significantly lower in PN4 pups than in adults. GalR1 mRNA was also at least 20 times less abundant in the PN4 cortex than GalR2 mRNA. In conclusion, a single dose of NAX 5055 has no acute efficacy on spasms or toxicity in the multiple hit rat model of medically refractory infantile spasms. Our findings cannot exclude the possibility that repetitive NAX 5055 administration may show efficacy on spasms. The higher expression of GalR2 in the PN4 cortex suggests that GalR2-preferring analogs may be of interest to test for efficacy on spasms.