Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 127, Issue 6
Author(s): Raffaele Nardone, Francesco Brigo, Alexander Kunz, Stefan Leis, Stefan Golaszewski, Eugen Trinka
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Παρασκευή 15 Απριλίου 2016
Motor cortex plasticity in subjects with mild cognitive impairment
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 127, Issue 6
Author(s): Raffaele Nardone, Francesco Brigo, Alexander Kunz, Stefan Leis, Stefan Golaszewski, Eugen Trinka
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Reply to “Motor cortex plasticity in subjects with mild cognitive impairment”
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 127, Issue 6
Author(s): Jacob Lahr, Jessica Peter, Lora Minkova, Eliza Lauer, Janine Reis, Bernhard Heimbach, Michael Hüll, Claus Normann, Christoph Nissen, Stefan Klöppel
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Movement-related potentials in Parkinson’s disease
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Dejan Georgiev, Florian Lange, Caroline Seer, Bruno Kopp, Marjan Jahanshahi
To date, many different approaches have been used to study the impairment of motor function in Parkinson's disease (PD). Event-related potentials (ERPs) are averaged amplitude fluctuations of the ongoing EEG activity that are time locked to specific sensory, motor or cognitive events, and as such can be used to study different brain processes with an excellent temporal resolution. Movement-related potentials (MRPs) are ERPs associated with processes of voluntary movement preparation and execution in different paradigms. In this review we concentrate on MRPs in PD. We review studies recording the Bereitschaftspotential, the Contingent Negative Variation, and the Lateralized Readiness Potential in PD to highlight the contributions they have made to further understanding motor deficits in PD. Possible directions for future research are also discussed.
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Electrophysiological insights into freezing in Parkinson’s disease
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology, Volume 127, Issue 6
Author(s): James M. Shine
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Motor training reduces surround inhibition in the motor cortex
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Haya Akkad, Flavio Di Stasio, Robert Tibold, Panagiotis Kassavetis, John C Rothwell, Mark J Edwards
ObjectiveSurround inhibition (SI) is thought to facilitate focal contraction of a hand muscle by keeping nearby muscles silent. Unexpectedly, SI is reduced in skilled pianists. We tested whether repeated practice of focal contraction in non-pianists could reduce SI.MethodsMotor-evoked potentials were elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation in the relaxed abductor digiti minimi randomly at the onset and 5s after offset of a 2s focal contraction (10% maximum) of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI). Over 5 blocks of 40 trials participants obtained points for increasing contraction speed and stability in FDI. In a final block, the interval between contractions was varied randomly to increase attention to the task.ResultsOver the first 5 blocks, SI declined as performance (points scored) improved. In the final "attention" block SI increased towards baseline without affecting performance.ConclusionsAlthough SI may be useful during the early stages of learning, skilled focal finger movement does not require SI to prevent activity in non-involved muscles. This could be due to better targeting of the excitatory command to move. Results from the final block suggest that increased attention can re-engage SI when task parameters change.SignificanceSI is not necessary for successful focal contraction, but may contribute during learning and during attention to task.
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Automatic Classification of 6-month-old Infants at Familial Risk for Language-based Learning Disorder Using a Support Vector Machine
Publication date: Available online 12 April 2016
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Marzieh Zare, Zahra Rezvani, April A. Benasich
ObjectivesThis study assesses the ability of a novel, "automatic classification" approach to facilitate identification of infants at highest familial risk for language-learning disorders (LLD) and to provide converging assessments to enable earlier detection of developmental disorders that disrupt language acquisition.MethodsNetwork connectivity measures derived from 62-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) recording were used to identify selected features within two infant groups who differed on LLD risk: infants with a family history of LLD (FH+) and typically-developing infants without such a history (FH-). A support vector machine was deployed; global efficiency and global and local clustering coefficients were computed. A novel Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) approach was also applied. Cross-validation was employed to assess the resultant classification.ResultsInfants were classified with about 80% accuracy into FH+ and FH- groups with 89% specificity and precision of 92%. Clustering patterns differed by risk group and MST network analysis suggests that FH+ infants' EEG complexity patterns were significantly different from FH- infants.ConclusionsThe automatic classification techniques used here were shown to be both robust and reliable and should provide valuable information when applied to early identification of risk or clinical groups.SignificanceThe ability to identify infants at highest risk for LLD using "automatic classification" strategies is a novel convergent approach that may facilitate earlier diagnosis and remediation.
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In memoriam: Elio Lugaresi, MD (July 1, 1926–December 22, 2015)
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Agostino Baruzzi
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Optimal Number of Pulses as Outcome Measures of Neuronavigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Won Hyuk Chang, Peter J. Fried, Sadhvi Saxena, Ali Jannati, Joyce Gomes-Osman, Yun-Hee Kim, Alvaro Pascual-Leone
ObjectiveIdentify the optimal number of pulses necessary to achieve reliable measures of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies.MethodsRetrospective data was obtained from 54 healthy volunteers (30 men, mean age 61.7±13.1 years) who as part of prior studies had completed three blocks of 30 consecutive TMS stimuli using neuronavigation. Data from four protocols were assessed: single-pulse TMS for measures of amplitude and latency of MEPs; paired-pulse TMS for short-interval intracortical inhibition (sICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF); and single-pulse TMS to assess the effects of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS). Two statistical methods were used: an internal consistency analysis and probability of inclusion in the 95% confidence interval (CI) around the mean MEPs amplitude.ResultsFor single-pulse TMS, the minimum number of pulses needed to achieve reliable amplitude and latency MEPs measures was 21 and 23, respectively. For paired-pulse TMS, the minimum number of pulses needed to achieve reliable sICI and ICF measures was 20 and 25, respectively. Finally, the minimum number of pulses needed to achieve reliable amplitude and latency MEPs measures after iTBS was 22 and 23, respectively.ConclusionsThis study provides guidelines regarding the minimum number of pulses needed to achieve reliable MEPs measurements in various study protocols using neuronavigated TMS.SignificanceResults from this study have the potential to increase the reliability and quality of future neuronavigated TMS studies.
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New Spectral Thresholds Improve the Utility of the Electroencephalogram for the Diagnosis of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Clive D. Jackson, Mikkel Gram, Edwin Halliday, Søren Schou Olesen, Thomas Holm Sandberg, Asbjørn Mohr Drewes, Marsha Y Morgan
ObjectiveThe utility of electroencephalogram (EEG) for the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy, using conventional spectral thresholds, is open to question. The aim of this study was to optimise this diagnostic performance by defining new spectral thresholds.MethodsEEGs were recorded in 69 healthy controls and 113 patients with cirrhosis whose neuropsychiatric status was classified using clinical and psychometric criteria. New EEG spectral thresholds were calculated, on the parietal P3-P4 lead derivation using an extended multivariable receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Thresholds were validated in a separate cohort of 68 healthy controls and 113 patients with cirrhosis. The diagnostic performance of the newly derived spectral thresholds was further validated using a machine learning techniqueResultsThe diagnostic performance of the new thresholds (sensitivity 75.0%; specificity 77.4%) was better balanced than conventional thresholds (58.3%; 93.2%) and comparable to the performance of a machine learning technique (72.9%; 76.8%). The diagnostic utility of the new thresholds was confirmed in the validation cohort.ConclusionsAdoption of the new spectral thresholds would significantly improve the utility of the EEG for the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy.SignificanceThese new spectral EEG thresholds optimise the performance of the EEG for the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy and can be adopted without the need to alter data recording or the initial processing of traces.
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Electrophysiology and ultrasonograpy of acute intraneural peroneal nerve ganglion
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Zsuzsanna Arányi, Maja Rosero, Katalin Dévay
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Expression of praxis induction on cortical excitability in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
Source:Clinical Neurophysiology
Author(s): Marcos Vidal-Dourado, Karlo Faria Nunes, Mirian Salvadori Bittar Guaranha, Lydia Maria Pereira Giuliano, Elza Márcia Targas Yacubian, Gilberto Mastrocola Manzano
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of praxis induction on sensorimotor cortical and transcallosal excitability in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME).MethodsThirty-six subjects (18-62 years) were included. JME group was screened by video-electroencephalography neuropsychological protocol and divided as JME without praxis induction [JME-WI (n=12)], JME with praxis-induced seizures or epileptiform discharges [JME-PI (n=10)] and healthy controls (n=14). Motor and somatosensory cortical excitability and transcallosal pathways were evaluated through single pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS) and somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP).ResultsMotor and transcallosal excitability tested with sTMS were not different in the motor dominant or non-dominant hemisphere among groups. Significant differences were found in cortical SEP amplitudes in P27 component in non-dominant hemisphere (p=0.03, Cohen's d=0.98), N35 in dominant hemisphere (p=0.04, Cohen's d=0.96) and P27-35 interpeak amplitude in both somatosensory cortex of JME-PI group (p=0.03, Cohen's d=0.96; p=0.02, Cohen's d=1.05) when comparing to healthy controls. Giant SEPs were observed in two (16.7%) patients of JME-WI and five (50%) of JME-PI group. Cortical latencies did not reveal differences.ConclusionsPraxis induction was associated with enhanced excitability in somatosensory cortex of JME patients.SignificanceThese findings may help clarifying the less favorable therapeutic response in JME-PI and point to identifying praxis induction as important determinant in differentiating between JME patients.
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Wis. firefighters, medics to begin wearing body armor
The gear will also be optional for EMTs and paramedics on more routine medical calls, which make up the vast majority
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Dispatcher talks teen through CPR after father's cardiac arrest
The dispatcher said he thought he was talking to an adult because the 16-year-old was not frantic or panicking
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Combined Oral Contraceptives Increase High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein but Not Haptoglobin in Female Athletes
Abstract
Background
No studies have examined the effects of oral hormonal contraception on chronic low-grade inflammation as assessed by stratified levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) in athletes. We explored the impact of combined oral contraceptives (OCs) on serum hsCRP, haptoglobin, triglycerides and cholesterol in white female athletes.
Methods
Italian sportswomen (n = 205; mean age 24 ± 5.3 years; body mass index 21 ± 2.2 kg m−2; sport activity 8.7 ± 3.65 h week−1) were analyzed according to OC use.
Results
Progressive hsCRP levels were evaluated in OC users (n = 53) compared to non-OC users (n = 152). Levels of hsCRP from 3.0 to <10.0 mg L−1 (at high risk of future cardiovascular events) were found in 26.4 % (14/53) of OC users and only in 2.6 % (4/153) of non-OC users (OR = 13.3, 95 % CI 4.14–42.6, P < 0.001). Risky hsCRP levels ≥1.0 mg L−1 were found in 62.3 % of OC users versus 13.2 % non-OC users (OR = 10.9, 95 % CI 5.26–22.5, P < 0.001). Protective hsCRP levels (<0.5 mg L−1) were found in 17.0 % of OC users and in 64.5 % of non-OC users (OR = 0.11, 95 % CI 0.05–0.25, P < 0.001). OC use increased serum triglycerides (P < 0.001), total cholesterol (P = 0.027) and HDL cholesterol (P = 0.018), whereas haptoglobin was unaffected. Hours of exercise week−1 had a mild inverse association with hsCRP (P = 0.048) in non-OC users only.
Conclusions
OC use markedly elevated chronic low-grade inflammation in athletes, which could predispose to a higher inflammatory response to physical stress and elevate cardiovascular risk. Physical activity without OC use seemed to favor low hsCRP. Further research is needed to extend our results and to elucidate the potential effects on athletic performance of chronically elevated hsCRP. Our findings would be useful for sport physicians interpreting blood tests in athletes.
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Comparison of Abstinence Rates of Smoking Cessation Medications among Obese Smokers
2016-04-15T03-23-53Z
Source: Journal of Behavioral Health
Mo Yang, Hua Chen, Michael L Johnson, Ekere J Essien, Ronald J Peters, Xin Wang, Susan Abughosh.
Although both varenicline and bupropion have been reported to be effective in terms of increasing the abstinence rate, while previous literature among adults reports better abstinence with varenicline compared to bupropion, our findings among obese smokers indicate no difference in abstinence for those using bupropion compared to those using varenicline.
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Safety and risk of superselective transcatheter arterial embolization for acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage with N-butyl cyanoacrylate: angiographic and colonoscopic evaluation
Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology
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Effect of electroacupuncture and herbal cake-partitioned moxibustion on anxiety and depression in patients with crohn's disease in remission
Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science
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Economic evaluation of fecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of recurrent Clostridium difficile infection in Australia
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
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Clinical value of on-treatment HCV RNA levels during different approved sofosbuvir-based antiviral regimens
Journal of Hepatology
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A nationwide survey of specialist knowledge on current standard of care (Peg-IFN/RBV) and barriers of care in chronic hepatitis C patients in China
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
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Multivitamin, calcium and folic acid supplements and the risk of colorectal cancer in Lynch syndrome
International Journal of Epidemiology
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Adverse childhood experiences are associated with irritable bowel syndrome and gastrointestinal symptom severity
Neurogastroenterology & Motility
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The association between the duration of fluoropyrimidine-based adjuvant chemotherapy and survival in stage II or III gastric cancer
World Journal of Surgical Oncology
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Extrusion versus diffusion: mechanisms for recovery from sodium loads in mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons
Abstract
Excitatory activity is accompanied by sodium influx into neurones due to opening of voltage- and ligand-activated channels. Recovery from resulting sodium transients has mainly been attributed to the Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA). Because sodium ions are highly mobile, diffusion could provide an additional pathway. We tested this in hippocampal neurones using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and sodium imaging. Somatic sodium transients induced by local glutamate application recovered at a maximum rate of 8 mM min−1 (∼0.03 mM min−1μm−2). Somatic sodium extrusion was accelerated at higher temperature and blocked by ouabain, emphasizing its dependence on NKA. Moreover, it was slowed down during inhibition of glycolysis by sodium fluoride (NaF). Local glutamate application to dendrites revealed a 10-fold higher apparent dendritic sodium extrusion rate compared to somata. Recovery was virtually unaltered by increased temperature, ouabain or NaF. We found that sodium diffused along primary dendrites with an apparent diffusion coefficient of ∼330 μm²/s. During global glutamate application, impeding substantial net-diffusion, apparent dendritic extrusion rates were reduced to somatic rates and also affected by NaF. Numerical simulations confirmed the essential role of NKA for recovery of somatic, but not dendritic sodium loads. Our data show that sodium export upon global sodium increases is largely mediated by NKA and depends on an intact energy metabolism. For recovery from local dendritic sodium increases, diffusion dominates over extrusion, operating efficiently even during short periods of energy deprivation. While sodium will eventually be extruded by the NKA, its diffusion-based fast dissemination to non-stimulated regions might reduce local energy requirements.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
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2014 French guidelines for hepatitis B and C screening.A combined targeted and mass testing strategy of chronic viruses namely HBV, HCV and HIV
Liver International
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Active subthreshold dendritic conductances shape the local field potential
Abstract
The main contribution to the local field potential (LFP) is thought to stem from synaptic input to neurons and the ensuing subthreshold dendritic processing. The role of active dendritic conductances in shaping the LFP has received little attention, even though such ion channels are known to affect the subthreshold neuron dynamics. Here we used a modelling approach to investigate the effects of subthreshold dendritic conductances on the LFP. Using a biophysically detailed, experimentally constrained model of a cortical pyramidal neuron, we identified conditions under which subthreshold active conductances are a major factor in shaping the LFP. We found that particularly the hyperpolarization-activated inward current, Ih, can have a sizable effect and cause a resonance in the LFP power spectral density. To get a general, qualitative understanding of how any subthreshold active dendritic conductance and its cellular distribution can affect the LFP, we next performed a systematic study with a simplified model. We found that the effect on the LFP is most pronounced when (1) the synaptic drive to the cell is asymmetrically distributed (i.e., either basal or apical), (2) the active conductances are distributed non-uniformly with the highest channel densities near the synaptic input, and (3) when the LFP is measured at the opposite pole of the cell relative to the synaptic input. In summary, we show that subthreshold active conductances can be strongly reflected in LFP signals, opening up the possibility that the LFP can be used to characterize the properties and cellular distributions of active conductances.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
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Effects of viral eradication in patients with HCV and cirrhosis differ with stage of portal hypertension
Gastroenterology
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TRPA1 channels: molecular sentinels of cellular stress and tissue damage
TRPA1 is a non-selective cation channel expressed in mammalian peripheral pain receptors, with a major role in chemonociception. TRPA1 has also been implicated in noxious cold and mechanical pain sensation. TRPA1 has an ancient origin and plays important functions in lower organisms, including thermotaxis, mechanotransduction and modulation of lifespan. Here we highlight TRPA1 role as a multipurpose sensor of harmful signals, including toxic bacterial products, UV light and sensor for stress and tissue damage. Sensing roles span beyond the peripheral nervous system to include major barrier tissues: gut, skin and lung. Tissue injury, environmental irritants and microbial pathogens are danger signals that can threaten the health of organisms. These signals lead to the coordinated activation of the nociceptive and the innate immune system to provide a homeostatic response, trying to reestablish physiological conditions including tissue repair. Activation of TRPA1 participates in protective neuroinmune interactions at multiple levels, sensing ROS and bacterial products and triggering the release of neuropeptides. However, an exaggerated response to danger signals is maladaptive and can lead to the development of chronic inflammatory conditions.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
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Is HLA-DRB1*13 allele a risk factor for prognosis of hepatitis C virus infection?
International Journal of Infectious Diseases
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Cellular electrophysiological principles that modulate secretion from synovial fibroblasts
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive disease that affects both pediatric and adult populations. The cellular basis for RA has been investigated extensively using animal models, human tissues and isolated cells in culture. However, many aspects of its etiology and molecular mechanisms remain unknown (McInnes & Schett, 2011). Some of the electrophysiological principles that regulate secretion of essential lubricants (hyaluronan and lubricin) and cytokines from synovial fibroblasts (FLS) have been identidied. Data sets describing the main types of ion channels that are expressed in human FLS preparations have begun to provide important new insights into the interplay among: (i) ion fluxes, (ii) Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (iii) intercellular coupling and (iv) transient and longer duration changes in FLS membrane potential. Combination of this information, knowledge of similar patterns of responses in cells that regulate the immune system, and the availability of adult human synovial fibroblasts are likely to provide new pathophysiological insights.
This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved
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Evaluation and improved use of fecal occult blood test in the constipated child
Gastroenterology Nursing
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A population-based study examining the risk of malignancy in patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease
Journal of Gastroenterology
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Oral zinc provision in acute diarrhea
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care
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Colorectal tumors from different racial and ethnic minorities have similar rates of mismatch repair deficiency
Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology
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Psychological stress exacerbates NSAID-induced small bowel injury by inducing changes in intestinal microbiota and permeability via glucocorticoid receptor signaling
Journal of Gastroenterology
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Implementation of baby boomer hepatitis C screening and linking to care in gastroenterology practices: a multi-center pilot study
BMC Gastroenterology
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Analysis of clinical predictors of resolution of sleep disturbance related to frequent nighttime heartburn and acid regurgitation symptoms in individuals taking esomeprazole 20 mg or placebo
Clinical Drug Investigation
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Endoscopic nodular gastritis with Helicobacter pylori infection: An indicator of high-grade bacterial colonization and severe gastritis in children
International Journal of Infectious Diseases
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Cost effectiveness of quantitative hepatitis B virus surface antigen testing in pregnancy in predicting vertical transmission risk
Liver International
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ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio and nitric oxide levels in pregnancy induced hypertensive women
2016-04-15T01-46-30Z
Source: International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences
Visala Sree Jammalamadaga, Philips Abraham, P. Sivaprasad.
Background: Pregnancy induced hypertension is considered as the major cause of maternal and perinatal mortality. Even though occurrence of PIH is due to abnormal placentation, endothelial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the genesis of the multisystem disorder that develops in pre eclampsia and eclampsia. Various studies have proved that hyperlipidemia is one of the major causes of endothelial dysfunction. Since ApoB/apoA-I ratio is a dyslipidemic indicator, the study was designed to determine ApoB/ApoA-I in PIH women and to analyse whether this ratio can be correlated with ED in PIH women. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study involved normotensive, preeclamptic and eclamptic pregnant women with hundred subjects in each group. They were investigated for serum lipid profile, ApoA, ApoB, NO, MDA, FRAP in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Results: The SBP & DBP were significantly high between 3 groups. The mean plasma TC, TGL, VLDL, LDL, MDA, ApoB levels, ApoB/ApoA-I were significantly high & HDL, ApoA-I, NO, FRAP levels were significantly low between 3 groups. The ApoB/ApoA-I was positively correlated with TC, TGL, VLDL, LDL, malondialdehyde and negatively correlated with HDL, FRAP & NO. Conclusions: Our results indicate that women with PE & E exhibit markedly elevated concentrations of TGL-rich lipoproteins. The negative correlation between ApoB/ApoA-I with NO indicates that the hyperlipidemia is directly related with severity of ED in PIH. So, careful monitoring of ApoB/ApoA-I along with NO might be helpful to predict the onset and progression of the disease.
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A quality improvement tool - driver diagram: a model of driver diagram to reduce primary caesarean section rates
2016-04-15T01-46-30Z
Source: International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences
Naima Fathima.
Background: Quality improvement in health care is emerging as a science with proven, effective tools and methodologies. This article aims at presenting the importance of adopting one of the effective and simple methodologies and gives an example of a Driver Diagram in obstetrics. Methods: Usefulness of driver diagram in understanding the aim and the interventions or changes. Results: Various quality improvement tools can be used in the clinical context. Among them, driver diagram is most widely used at the start of an improvement initiative. The driver diagram in this article shows its applicability in one of the clinical aspects of obstetrics, to reduce primary caesarean section rates. Conclusions: Driver diagram is an easy and a simple tool widely used in quality improvement activities. It is essential to use at the beginning of improvement initiatives.
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Coconut water of different maturity stages ameliorates inflammatory processes in model of inflammation
2016-04-15T01-37-38Z
Source: Journal of Intercultural Ethnopharmacology
Sadia Saleem Rao, Rahila Najam.
Aim Coconut water is a natural beverage that is a part of daily diet of many people. This study was designed to explore anti-inflammatory activity of coconut water of different maturation stages (young and mature) with rat paw-edema model of inflammation using plethysmometer. Methodology For this study, albino rats were selected and divided into four equal groups (10 rats in each group). Group 1 was set as control and administered distilled water 1 ml orally, group 2 and 3 were treated with young and mature coconut water respectively at 4ml/100g dose orally. Group 4 was treated with standard drug (ibuprofen) at 400mg/70 kg. 0.1 ml of 1% w/v acetic acid was administered in subplantar tissue of rat paw 30 min after oral treatments of groups. Plethysmometer was used to measure rat paw edema. Results Results revealed that both coconut waters possess significant anti-inflammatory activity (p
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In vitro antimicrobial activity of five essential oils on multi-drug resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates
2016-04-15T01-37-38Z
Source: Journal of Intercultural Ethnopharmacology
Hercules Sakkas, Panagiota Gousia, Vangelis Economou, Vassilios Sakkas, Stefanos Petsios, Chrissanthy Papadopoulou.
Aim/background: The emergence of drug-resistant pathogens has drawn attention on medicinal plants for potential antimicrobial properties. The objective of the present study was the investigation of the antimicrobial activity of five plant essential oils on multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Material and Methods: Basil, Chamomile Blue, Origanum, Thyme and Tea Tree oil were tested against clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii (n=6), Escherichia coli (n=4), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=7) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=5) using the broth macrodilution method. Results: The tested essential oils produced variable antibacterial effect, while Chamomile blue oil demonstrated no antibacterial activity. Origanum, Thyme and Basil oils were ineffective on P. aeruginosa isolates. The MIC and MBC values ranged from 0.12 -1.50% (v/v) for Tea Tree oil, 0.25-4% (v/v) for Origanum and Thyme oil, 0.50->4% for Basil oil and >4% for Chamomile Blue oil. Compared to literature data on reference strains the reported MIC values were different by 2SD, denoting less successful antimicrobial activity against multi-drug resistant isolates. Conclusions: The antimicrobial activities of the essential oils are influenced by the strain origin (wild, reference, drug sensitive or resistant) and it should be taken into consideration whenever investigating the plants potential for developing new antimicrobials.
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Preejection period can be calculated using R peak instead of Q
Abstract
Preejection period (PEP) is a common measure of sympathetic nervous system activation in psychophysiological research, which makes it important to measure reliably for as many participants as possible. PEP is typically calculated as the interval between the onset or peak of the electrocardiogram Q wave and the impedance cardiography B point, but the Q wave can lack clear definition and even its peak is not visible for all participants. We thus investigated the feasibility of using the electrocardiogram R wave peak (Rpeak) instead of Q because it can be consistently identified with ease and precision. Across four samples (total N = 408), young adult participants completed a variety of minimally metabolically demanding laboratory tasks after a resting baseline. Results consistently supported a close relationship between absolute levels of the Rpeak-B interval and PEP (accounting for approximately 90% of the variance at baseline and 89% during task performance, on average), but for reactivity values, Rpeak-B was practically indistinguishable from PEP (accounting for over 98% of the variance, on average). Given that using Rpeak rather than the onset or peak of Q saves time, eliminates potential subjectivity, and can be applied to more participants (i.e., those without a visible Q wave), findings suggest that Rpeak-B likely provides an adequate estimate of PEP when absolute levels are of interest and clearly does so for within-person changes.
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Blood pressure and the perception of illusive pain
Abstract
Numerous studies have documented an inverse relationship between blood pressure and sensitivity to experimental nociceptive stimulation. The present study aimed to investigate possible associations between blood pressure and the occurrence and intensity of paradoxical pain induced by the thermal grill paradigm. Thirty-one healthy subjects were stimulated three times for 1 min with the nonnoxious temperatures of 15°C and 41°C set at the interlaced cold and warm bars of a water bath-driven thermal grill. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded concomitantly. On account of previous observations of an association between the sensitivity of the cardiac baroreflex and pain perception, this parameter was additionally obtained. Numerical rating scales were used to quantify subjective pain intensity and pain unpleasantness; subjects were classified as responders and nonresponders to thermal grill stimulation based on pain intensity ratings. Responders exhibited lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than nonresponders, and inverse linear associations arose between blood pressure and pain intensity and unpleasantness. Baroreflex sensitivity was unrelated to pain ratings. The findings confirmed the hypothesis of a blood pressure dependence of paradoxical pain and support the notion that the cardiovascular and pain regulatory systems interact not only in the processing of pain elicited by noxious input, but also in nonnoxiously generated illusive pain. While this finding is not consistent with the assumption of an involvement of the baroreflex system in mediating the observed interaction, psychological traits and neurochemical factors are alternatively considered.
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Theta EEG neurofeedback benefits early consolidation of motor sequence learning
Abstract
Procedural learning is subject to consolidation processes believed to depend on the modulation of functional connections involved in representing the acquired skill. While sleep provides the most commonly studied framework for such consolidation processes, posttraining modulation of oscillatory brain activity may also impact on plasticity processes. Under the hypothesis that consolidation of motor learning is associated with theta band activity, we used EEG neurofeedback (NFB) to enable participants to selectively increase either theta or beta power in their EEG spectra following the acquisition phase of motor sequence learning. We tested performance on a motor task before and after training, right after the NFB session to assess immediate NFB effects, 1 day after NFB to assess interaction between NFB effects and overnight sleep-dependent stabilization, and 1 week after the initial session, to assess the effects of NFB on long-term stabilization of motor training. We also explored the extent of the influence of single-electrode NFB on EEG recorded across the scalp. Results revealed a significantly greater improvement in performance immediately after NFB in the theta group than in the beta group. This effect continued for testing up to 1 week following training. Across participants, post-NFB improvement correlated positively with theta/beta ratio change achieved during NFB. Additionally, NFB was found to cause widespread band-power modulation beyond the electrode used for feedback. Thus, upregulating postlearning theta power may yield contributions to the immediate performance and subsequent consolidation of an acquired motor skill.
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40-Hz oscillations underlying perceptual binding in young and older adults
Abstract
Auditory object perception requires binding of elementary features of complex stimuli. Synchronization of high-frequency oscillation in neural networks has been proposed as an effective alternative to binding via hard-wired connections because binding in an oscillatory network can be dynamically adjusted to the ever-changing sensory environment. Previously, we demonstrated in young adults that gamma oscillations are critical for sensory integration and found that they were affected by concurrent noise. Here, we aimed to support the hypothesis that stimulus evoked auditory 40-Hz responses are a component of thalamocortical gamma oscillations and examined whether this oscillatory system may become less effective in aging. In young and older adults, we recorded neuromagnetic 40-Hz oscillations, elicited by monaural amplitude-modulated sound. Comparing responses in quiet and under contralateral masking with multitalker babble noise revealed two functionally distinct components of auditory 40-Hz responses. The first component followed changes in the auditory input with high fidelity and was of similar amplitude in young and older adults. The second, significantly smaller in older adults, showed a 200-ms interval of amplitude and phase rebound and was strongly attenuated by contralateral noise. The amplitude of the second component was correlated with behavioral speech-in-noise performance. Concurrent noise also reduced the P2 wave of auditory evoked responses at 200-ms latency, but not the earlier N1 wave. P2 modulation was reduced in older adults. The results support the model of sensory binding through thalamocortical gamma oscillations. Limitation of neural resources for this process in older adults may contribute to their speech-in-noise understanding deficits.
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Mental health risk factors influencing metabolic syndrome among secondary school teachers of Mysore city
2016-04-15T00-12-08Z
Source: International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health
Shashikala Narayanappa, Renuka Manjunath, Praveen Kulkarni.
Background: Metabolic syndrome has been suggested to be an intermediate pathway between depression and CVD wherein, chronic stress due to prolonged exposure to work stress, repeated stress over a period of time damages the HPA axis resulting in a maladaptive process as well as inflammatory factors like CRP which causes depression and poor health habits, leading to development of metabolic syndrome. The risk factors causing stress among the school teachers is very high as compared to other professional groups which not only affects their health but also adversely affects the students and their learning environment. The interventions have been mainly to reduce the level of work related stress and improve their performance in teaching, but have neglected a holistic approach to improve their overall health conditions. Methods: Cross sectional study was done in Mysore city among 320 Secondary school teachers aged 20 years and above, with at least one year of teaching experience. A self-administered, pretested and structured questionnaire based on the WHO steps approach for NCD, Gurmeet Singhs Presumptive Stressful Life Events Scale (PSLES) for stress, PHQ 9 for depression and GHQ28 for general mental health status. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 115 (38.3%). 30.6% had mild to moderate depression and only 2.3% had severe depression. 141 (47.0%) had moderate stress and only 42 (14%) had severe stress. The prevalence of minor psychiatric disorders (MPD) was 66 (22%). The mental health status did not have any statistically significant effect on the occurrence of MS or its risk factors. Conclusions: The poor mental health status was significantly associated with high fasting blood glucose levels, moderate to severe depression was significantly high among females and stress was associated with diastolic blood pressure, TGs and dyslipidemia.
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Breastfeeding practices in children under 6 months of age: a community based study in urban field practice area of a medical college in central Gujarat, India
2016-04-15T00-12-08Z
Source: International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health
Kajal Davara, Paragkumar Chavda, Chandresh Pandya, Dipak Solanki.
Background: Early and exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recognized as one of the most effective interventions for child survival particularly to address childhood morbidity and mortality. In spite of the countless benefits, the prevalence of EBF in India, according to the NFHS-3 (2005-2006), at 6 months was only 46.4%. Constraints to EBF are breastfeeding problems, delivery by caesarean section, perceived or real breast milk insufficiency, resumption of official work by the mother, and cultural practices. The objective of the study was to assess current breastfeeding practices of mothers having children less than 6 months of age and to assess the correct positioning, attachment and effective suckling as practiced by these mothers. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was done in urban field practice area of a medical college in Central Gujarat from August 2015 to September 2015. Thirty two mother-infant units were observed for babys position, attachment and effective suckling using standard IMNCI guideline. Data thus collected were analysed using Microsoft Excel. Results: Out of the criteria for correct attachment, only two children fulfilled all 4 criteria which were classified as having good attachment. The assessment for proper positioning revealed that only around 13% infants fulfilled all 4 criteria for good positioning. Almost half of the infants were suckling effectively. Conclusions: Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that each mother should be observed for mothers and infants positioning and attachment at the onset of breastfeeding and if needed given counselling on correct breastfeeding practices.
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Latent Class Analysis of Neurodevelopmental Deficit After Exposure to Anesthesia in Early Childhood.
Introduction: Although some studies have reported an association between early exposure to anesthesia and surgery and long-term neurodevelopmental deficit, the clinical phenotype of children exposed to anesthesia is still unknown. Methods: Data were obtained from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort Study (Raine) with neuropsychological tests at age 10 years measuring language, cognition, motor function, and behavior. Latent class analysis of the tests was used to divide the cohort into mutually exclusive subclasses of neurodevelopmental deficit. Multivariable polytomous logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between exposure to surgery and anesthesia and each latent class, adjusting for demographic and medical covariates. Results: In our cohort of 1444 children, latent class analysis identified 4 subclasses: (1) Normal: few deficits (n=1135, 78.6%); (2) Language and Cognitive deficits: primarily language, cognitive, and motor deficits (n=96, 6.6%); (3) Behavioral deficits: primarily behavioral deficits, (n=151, 10.5%); and (4) Severe deficits: deficits in all neuropsychological domains (n=62, 4.3%). Language and cognitive deficit group children were more likely to have exposure before age 3 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17-3.81), whereas a difference in exposure was not found between Behavioral or Severe deficit children (aOR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.58-1.73, and aOR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.34-2.15, respectively) and Normal children. Conclusions: Our results suggest that in evaluating children exposed to surgery and anesthesia at an early age, the phenotype of interest may be children with deficits primarily in language and cognition, and not children with broad neurodevelopmental delay or primarily behavioral deficits. Copyright (C) 2016 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved
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