scholarly journals Light-stimulus intensity modulates startle reflex habituation in larval zebrafish

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Carolina Beppi ◽  
Giorgio Beringer ◽  
Dominik Straumann ◽  
Stefan Yu Bögli
Keyword(s):  
Stimulus Intensity ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Light Stimulus ◽  
Startle Reflex ◽  
The Body ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Larval Zebrafish ◽  
Group A ◽  
Light Stimuli

AbstractThe startle reflex in larval zebrafish describes a C-bend of the body occurring in response to sudden, unexpected, stimuli of different sensory modalities. Alterations in the startle reflex habituation (SRH) have been reported in various human and animal models of neurological and psychiatric conditions and are hence considered an important behavioural marker of neurophysiological function. The amplitude, offset and decay constant of the auditory SRH in larval zebrafish have recently been characterised, revealing that the measures are affected by variation in vibratory frequency, intensity, and interstimulus-interval. Currently, no study provides a model-based analysis of the effect of physical properties of light stimuli on the visual SRH. This study assessed the effect of incremental light-stimulus intensity on the SRH of larval zebrafish through a repeated-measures design. Their total locomotor responses were normalised for the time factor, based on the behaviour of a (non-stimulated) control group. A linear regression indicated that light intensity positively predicts locomotor responses due to larger SRH decay constants and offsets. The conclusions of this study provide important insights as to the effect of light properties on the SRH in larval zebrafish. Our methodology and findings constitute a relevant reference framework for further investigation in translational neurophysiological research.

scholarly journals Evaluating the use of gas discharge visualization to measure massage therapy outcomes

2015 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jolie Haun ◽  
Nitin Patel ◽  
Gary Schwartz ◽  
Cheryl Ritenbaugh
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Muscle Tension ◽  
Massage Therapy ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Gas Discharge ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Therapy Outcomes ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Whole Person

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of massage therapy using gas discharge visualization (GDV), a computerized biophysical electrophoton capture (EPC), in tandem with traditional self-report measures to evaluate the use of GDV measurement to assess the bioenergetic whole-person effects of massage therapy.: This study used a single treatment group, pre–post-repeated measures design with a sample of 23 healthy adults. This study utilized a single 50-min full-body relaxation massage with participants. GDV measurement method, an EPC, and traditional paper-based measures evaluating pain, stress, muscle tension, and well-being were used to assess intervention outcomes.: Significant differences were found between pre- and post-measures of well-being, pain, stress, muscle tension, and GDV parameters. Pearson correlations indicate the GDV measure is correlated with pain and stress, variables that impact the whole person.: This study demonstrates that GDV parameters may be used to indicate significant bioenergetic change from pre- to post-massage. Findings warrant further investigation with a larger diverse sample size and control group to further explore GDV as a measure of whole-person bioenergetic effects associated with massage.

scholarly journals Positive Adolescent Development: Effects of a Psychosocial Intervention Program in a Rural Setting

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (18) ◽  
pp. 6784
Author(s):  
Diana Paricio ◽  
Maria F. Rodrigo ◽  
Paz Viguer ◽  
Marina Herrera
Keyword(s):  
Youth Development ◽  
Adolescent Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Development Program ◽  
Rural Setting ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Repeated Measures Design

The Positive Youth Development (PYD) approach identifies adolescents as resources to be empowered rather than problems to be solved. All adolescents have strengths and will fully develop when these strengths are integrated with healthy resources in the diverse environments where they live and interact. The objective of this study was twofold: (1) to present the Positive Development Program for Adolescents living in rural areas (DPAR Program) and (2) to pilot test the intervention program. The DPAR program was evaluated using a repeated-measures design before and after the intervention, with an intervention group and a control group. The sample consisted of 176 adolescents between 11 and 15 years old (M = 12.89, SD = 0.90) who belonged to two high schools with similar characteristics located in rural settings. A mixed-design analysis of variance was performed for each dependent variable. Results showed a significant increase in most of the study variables (self-esteem, self-efficacy, group identity, empathy, relational skills, assertiveness, and conflict resolution) and a significant decrease in alexithymia, as well as better academic performance. All this evidence indicates that the DPAR program is effective in promoting positive adolescent development and addresses the lack of programs based on the PYD approach in rural areas.

Adult protection training for community nurses: evaluating knowledge following delivery using participant-favoured training methods

2014 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 17-28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martin Campbell
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Training Methods ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Training Activities ◽  
The Impact ◽  
And Training ◽  
Adult Protection ◽  
Adult Support

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to measure nurses’ knowledge about Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 before and after a one-day training course using participants’ favoured methods of training activities. Design/methodology/approach – A repeated measures design was used to evaluate the impact of a one-day Adult Support and Protection training on pre-training knowledge of community nurses across one NHS area. Participants’ favoured methods of training activities were used in the training. Participants were community nurses working in learning disability, mental health, older people's services, acute services, substance misuse, and accident and emergency. All completed a training needs analysis and training preferences study. Individual and group scores on an Adult Support and Protection knowledge questionnaire were analysed pre- and post-training. Findings – There was a statistically significant increase in scores post-training (Wilcoxon's signed-ranks test). Individual increases ranged from 2.5 to 27.5 per cent, with a mean score of 15 per cent. Evaluation of the impact of nationally approved Adult Support and Protection training is needed and training should take account of participants’ existing knowledge and preferred methods of training delivery to improve the transfer of learning into practice. Research limitations/implications – Participants were self-selecting. Existing knowledge was not controlled for in the sample. No longitudinal follow up to measure retention of any improvements in knowledge. No control group. Training methods used were based on the expressed preferences of 40 nursing staff, but only 18 of these staff participated in the training day. Originality/value – There is a dearth of research in evaluating the impact of the adult protection training on staff knowledge and understanding. Designing training activities and content to take account of participant preferences, and areas where knowledge is weakest may enhance the effectiveness of training in this area. This research was funded as a Queens Nursing Institute Community Project. It builds on a pilot project

scholarly journals EFFECT OF POTASH ADMINISTRATION ON THE BODY WEIGHT OF PREGNANT WISTAR RATS

2019 ◽  
pp. 1-3
Author(s):  
VIDONA WB ◽  
ADUEMA WADIONI ◽  
AKUNNEH-WARISO C ◽  
AMAH AK
Keyword(s):  
Wistar Rats ◽  
Wistar Rat ◽  
Oral Route ◽  
The Body ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Distilled Water ◽  
Pregnant Animal ◽  
Group A ◽  
Ad Libitum ◽  
Different Doses

Objective: Potash known as potassium carbonate (K2CO3) is a mixture of salt with other components, including impurities which coexist in mineral and salt is highly consumed in various forms by pregnant women. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of potash on the weight index of pregnant Wistar rats. Methods: A total of 25 albino Wistar rat with weights ranging from 180 to 300 g were used and allocated into five groups of five animals each (four females and one male) designated as Groups A, B, C, D, and E. The experimental Groups B, C, D, and E were administered through oral route different doses of potash of 300 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, 900 mg/kg, and 1200 mg/kg, respectively, after pregnancy was detected by checking for mucus plug in the vagina. Group A served as the control group and was administered distilled water only. The animals were allowed for 1 week for acclimatization under normal temperature (270–300°C), which they were being fed with normal feed (grower’s mash) and water ad libitum for 1 week. Results: The result showed a significant (p˂0.05) reduction in weight with the highest level seen with the 1200 mg/kg group when compared to the control. Conclusion: Therefore, the effect of potash alters the physical activity and decreases weight, by implication may induce growth retardation of the Wistar rats which is not healthy for a pregnant animal.

scholarly journals Impact Evaluation of an Addiction Intervention Program in a Quebec Prison

2015 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
pp. SART.S22464
Author(s):  
Catherine Arseneault ◽  
Marc Alain ◽  
Chantal Plourde ◽  
Francine Ferland ◽  
Nadine Blanchette-Martin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Substance Use ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Multidimensional Data ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Preliminary Results ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Treatment Services ◽  
Quasi Experimental ◽  
And Control

Objectives This study evaluates the effects of a prison-based addiction intervention program. The evaluation is based on a multidimensional data collection that draws a portrait of the respondents’ substance use, and of their psychological/emotional, social, and judicial spheres. It measures the changes, or lack thereof, in substance use; the psychological/emotional, social, and judicial spheres; as well as the post-treatment services used. Method A quasi-experimental repeated measures design (0, 6 weeks, and 6 months) was used. Effects of the program were identified by comparing the results obtained by a group of inmates who had participated in the program ( n = 80; experimental group) with those of another group who had received no intervention ( n = 70; control group). Results The preliminary results suggested a certain treatment effect related to impulsivity and psychological distress. Conclusion Although the preliminary results were promising, the experimental and control groups did not differ significantly when more robust analyses were used.

Subacute administration of tributyltin chloride modulates neurotransmitters and their metabolites in discrete brain regions of maternal mice and their F1 offspring

2006 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 15-25 ◽  
Author(s):  
Masashi Tsunoda ◽  
Yoshiharu Aizawa ◽  
Nobuhiro Konno ◽  
Kimiko Kimura ◽  
Yoshiko Sugita-Konishi
Keyword(s):  
Brain Regions ◽  
The Body ◽  
Developmental Neurotoxicity ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Icr Mice ◽  
Adult Mice ◽  
Tributyltin Chloride ◽  
Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid ◽  
Group A ◽  
The Central Nervous System

Tributyltin (TBT) compounds have been used as anti-fouling agents and the central nervous system is one of its target organs. TBT-induced modulations of neurotransmitters in the brains of adult mice have been reported. However, little is known about the developmental neurotoxicity of TBT. In this study, we evaluated the effects of TBT on neurotransmitters and their metabolites in discrete brain regions of female ICR mice and their offspring. Pregnant ICR mice were exposed to TBT chloride at concentrations of 0, 15 or 50 ppm in water or 125 ppm in food. Male offspring were sacrificed at one, two and three weeks after birth. The concentrations of norepinephrine, dopamine (DA), dihydoxyphenylacetic acid, homovanillic acid (HVA), serotonin (5-HT), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined in different brain regions by HPLC. All offspring from the 125 ppm group died immediately after birth. A significant decrease in the body weight of the TBT-treated F1 groups compared to the control group was observed in the first week. Significant increases compared to the controls were observed for the DA concentration in the striatum of the 50 ppm F1 group, and for the HVA concentration in the cerebrum and the 5-HT concentration in the medulla oblongata of the 15 and 50 ppm F1 groups in the third week. At three weeks of age, the neurotransmitters and their metabolites may be useful indexes for developmental neurotoxicity. For the dams, a significant decrease in the 5-HT concentration was observed in the cerebellum, medulla, midbrain and striatum of the 125 ppm group compared to the control group. A significant decrease in the 5-HIAA concentration was also observed in the cerebellum, midbrain and striatum of the dams in the 125 ppm group compared to the control. TBT may induce a decrease in the synthesis of 5-HT in the dams. The discrepancy between dams and offspring may be due to several factors such as age, dose, route, sex and pregnancy.

scholarly journals EFFECTS OF FORM-FOCUSED PRACTICE AND FEEDBACK ON CHINESE EFL LEARNERS’ ACQUISITION OF REGULAR AND IRREGULAR PAST TENSE FORMS

2010 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 235-263 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yingli Yang ◽  
Roy Lyster
Keyword(s):  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Corrective Feedback ◽  
Past Tense ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Chinese Learners ◽  
Quasi Experimental ◽  
Group A ◽  
Improving Accuracy ◽  
The University ◽  
Post Hoc

Conducted in English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) classrooms at the university level in China, this quasi-experimental study compared the effects of three different corrective feedback treatments on 72 Chinese learners’ use of regular and irregular English past tense. Three classes were randomly assigned to a prompt group, a recast group, or a control group and then participated in form-focused production activities that elicited the target forms. In the two feedback groups, teachers consistently provided one type of feedback (i.e., either recasts or prompts) in response to learners’ errors during the activities, whereas in the control group, the teacher provided feedback only on content. Pretests, immediate posttests, and delayed posttests administered 2 weeks after the treatment assessed participants’ acquisition of regular and irregular past tense forms in both oral and written production. Comparisons of group means across testing sessions using a repeated-measures ANOVA consistently revealed large effects for time. Post hoc within-group analyses of the eight immediate- and delayed-posttest measures revealed significant gains by the prompt group on all eight measures, the recast group on four, and the control group on three. The effects of prompts were larger than those of recasts for increasing accuracy in the use of regular past tense forms, whereas prompts and recasts had similar effects on improving accuracy in the use of irregular past tense forms.

scholarly journals Hippotherapy—An Intervention to Habilitate Balance Deficits in Children With Movement Disorders: A Clinical Trial

2012 ◽  
Vol 92 (5) ◽  
pp. 707-717 ◽  
Author(s):  
Debbie J. Silkwood-Sherer ◽  
Clyde B. Killian ◽  
Toby M. Long ◽  
Kathy S. Martin
Keyword(s):  
Movement Disorders ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Friedman Analysis ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Clinical Observations ◽  
Balance Deficits ◽  
And Function ◽  
Post Hoc ◽  
Balance Problems

Background Clinical observations have suggested that hippotherapy may be an effective strategy for habilitating balance deficits in children with movement disorders. However, there is limited research to support this notion. Objective The purposes of this study were to assess the effectiveness of hippotherapy for the management of postural instability in children with mild to moderate balance problems and to determine whether there is a correlation between balance and function. Design A repeated-measures design for a cohort of children with documented balance deficits was used. Methods Sixteen children (9 boys and 7 girls) who were 5 to 16 years of age and had documented balance problems participated in this study. Intervention consisted of 45-minute hippotherapy sessions twice per week for 6 weeks. Two baseline assessments and 1 postintervention assessment of balance, as measured with the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), and of function, as measured with the Activities Scale for Kids—Performance (ASKp), were performed. Results With the Friedman analysis of variance, the PBS and the ASKp were found to be statistically significant across all measurements (P<.0001 for both measures). Post hoc analysis revealed a statistical difference between baseline and postintervention measures (P≤.017). This degree of difference resulted in large effect sizes for PBS (d=1.59) and ASKp (d=1.51) scores after hippotherapy. A Spearman rho correlation of .700 indicated a statistical association between PBS and ASKp postintervention scores (P=.003). There was no correlation between the change in PBS scores and the change in ASKp scores (rs=.13, P>.05). Limitations Lack of a control group and the short duration between baseline assessments are study limitations. Conclusions The findings suggest that hippotherapy may be a viable strategy for reducing balance deficits and improving the performance of daily life skills in children with mild to moderate balance problems.

scholarly journals Suicide Prevention Training – Improving the Attitudes and Confidence of Rural Australian Health and Human Service Professionals

Crisis ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 15-26 ◽  
Author(s):  
Monika Ferguson ◽  
James Dollman ◽  
Martin Jones ◽  
Kathryn Cronin ◽  
Lynne James ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Suicide Prevention ◽  
Human Service ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Human Service Professionals ◽  
Prevention Education ◽  
Australian Health ◽  
Repeated Measures Design ◽  
Suicide Prevention Training ◽  
The Impact

Abstract. Background: Suicide rates are higher in rural and remote areas of Australia compared with major cities. Aim: To evaluate the impact of a brief, community-based suicide prevention educational intervention on the attitudes and confidence of rural South Australian health and human service professionals. Method: Participants attended a 1-day suicide prevention education program, and completed a survey at four time points: baseline (T1), immediately pretraining (T2), immediately posttraining (T3), and 4-month follow-up (T4). Main outcome measures were self-reported attitudes and confidence when working with people vulnerable to suicide. Results: A total of 248 people attended the training, with 213 participants completing the survey at T1, 236 at T2, 215 at T3, and 172 at T4. There were significant improvements in 11 of the 14 attitude items between T2 and T3 (immediate change), and between T1 and T4 (maintained change). Further, there were significant improvements in all four confidence items between T2 and T3, and T1 and T4. Limitations: Despite the repeated-measures design, findings are limited by the lack of a control group. Conclusion: Findings extend the international evidence by indicating the value of brief suicide prevention education for improving health and human service professionals' attitudes and confidence in rural Australia.

scholarly journals Protocol on Comparative Clinical Efficacy of Tryushanadi Guggul and Navaka Guggul in Sthoulya (Overweight)

2021 ◽  
pp. 169-175
Author(s):  
Ashvini Dineshrao Pardhekar ◽  
Sadhana Misar(Wajpeyi) ◽  
Vinod Ade
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Efficacy ◽  
The Body ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Arm Circumference ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Group A ◽  
Excessive Intake ◽  
Group B ◽  
Excessive Accumulation

Background: Sthoulya is Medovaha Strotodushtijanya vyadhi, which includes abnormal and excessive accumulation of Medodhatu in the body. This is caused by lack of physical and mental activity, daytime sleep, excessive intake of madhur (sweet), snigdha ahar (oily diet) results in  increase Kaphadosha and meda which results in Sthoulya (overweight) having symptoms of mild dysponea, thirst, drowsiness, excess sleep, appetite, offensive smell from the body, incapability to work and incapability to participate in sexual intercourse. Aim: Comparative clinical efficacy of Tryushanadi Guggul and Navaka Guggul in Sthoulya (overweight). Materials and methods: Total 60 patients of Sthoulya will enrolled and will divided into two groups (each group contains 30). Patients in group A (experimental group) will be given 1 gram Tryushanadi Guggul two times a day after meal with honey and in group B (control group)1 gram Navaka Guggul will administered two times a day after meal with honey for 30 days. Dietary changes and walking (30 minutes) will be advised to patients of both groups. Follow up will be taken on 15th day and 30th day. Assessment of subjective parameters like kshudrashwasa (exertional dyspnoea), swedadhikya (perspiration), atikshudha (increased appetite), nidradhikya (increased sleep) and objective parameters like body weight, B.M.I., mid arm circumference, waist-hip ratio and lipid profile will be done before and after treatment. Results: Subjective and objectives outcomes will be assessed by statistical analysis. Conclusion: It will be drawn from the result obtained.

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