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Background: In recent years, studies have found small-to-medium positive effects of physical activity on academic achievement. Already acute bouts of exercise appear to improve certain cognitive functions. Spatial abilities are one aspect of cognition that is encountered frequently in daily life and that is closely related to success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-subjects. However, little is known about the effects of an acute exercise session on spatial abilities. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of a single session of coordinative motor training (CMT) on spatial ability performances in healthy children. Methods: Forty-nine children were assigned to either a single session of CMT (i.e., obstacle course with motor coordinative and spatial elements) (n = 25, 12 females, mean age: 10.7 ± 0.6 years) or a resting control group (n = 24, 12 females, mean age ± SD: 11.4 ± 0.5 years). Spatial abilities were evaluated in both groups using the Paper Folding Test (PFT), Mental Rotation Test (MRT), Water Level Task (WLT), Corsi Block Test (CBT), and Numbered Cones Run (NCR). Results: A statistical main effect for Test was observed for the majority of outcomes (i.e., all but the MRT). Test × Group interactions did not reach the level of significance. Conclusion: The results indicate that a single session of CMT does not improve spatial ability performances of healthy children. Future research should evaluate whether repeated longer-term interventions might be more suitable to generate significant improvements in spatial abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guidance on maximal limits for ultraviolet (UV) exposure has been developed by national and international organizations to protect against adverse effects on human skin and eyes. These guidelines consider the risk of both acute effects (i.e., erythema and photokeratitis) and delayed effects (e.g., skin and ocular cancers) when determining exposure limits, and specify the dose a person can safely receive during an 8‐h period without harmful effects. The determination of these exposure limits relies on the action spectra of photobiological responses triggered by UV radiation that quantify the effectiveness of each wavelength at eliciting each of these effects. With growing interest in using far‐UVC (200–235 nm) radiation to control the spread of airborne pathogens, recent arguments have emerged about revisiting exposure limits for UV wavelengths. However, the standard erythema action spectrum, which provides some of the quantitative basis for these limits, has not been extended below 240 nm. This study assists to expand the erythema action spectrum to far‐UVC wavelengths using a hairless albino mice model. We estimate that inducing acute effects on mouse skin with 222 nm radiation requires a dose of 1162 mJ/cm2, well above the current ACGIH skin exposure limit of 480 mJ/cm2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that exposure to air pollution acts as a potential trigger for neurological diseases (NDs), yet the current knowledge regarding the impact of ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) on the patients with NDs remains limited. In this study, we conducted a time-series study to evaluate the association between short-term exposure to NO2 and hospital visits for NDs in Xinxiang, China. Methods: An over-dispersed Poisson generalized additive model was used to analyze the association between ambient NO2 concentrations and daily outpatient visits for NDs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017. The model adjusted for meteorological factors, temporal trends, day of the week, and public holidays. The concentrations of air pollutants were collected from four air quality stations in Xinxiang. Results: A total of 38, 865 outpatient visits for NDs were retrieved during the study period. 86.5% of the patients were below the age of 65 years. It was revealed that a 10 µg/m3 increase in NO2 at lag 0 was associated with a significant rise of 1.50% (95% CI: 0.45–2.56%) in outpatient visits for NDs, which was stronger during the cold season. However, the overall results from stratified analyses did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: Short-term exposure to NO2 is associated with increased outpatient visits for NDs. These findings underscore the need for implementing mitigating measures to reduce the neurological health effects of air pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers' hematological parameters. In this context, this cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the acute changes in the hematological parameters of kickboxers following K1 matches. With the participation of 10 kickboxing K1 athletes, the hematological parameters, including the WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, Mono, RBC, Hgb, Hct, CK, La, and glucose levels, were examined before and after matches. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the pre-test and post-test hematological parameters of the participants. The findings indicated statistically significant differences in the post-match WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, CK, La, and glucose levels, while no statistically significant differences were observed in the RBC, Hct, Hgb, and CK levels (p < 0.05). These results not only emphasize the complexity of physiological changes in athletes, but also show consistency with various findings in the literature, while contradicting some. Therefore, it is highlighted that further research is needed to understand the effects of K1 matches on hematological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Accumulating evidence suggests that exposure to air pollution acts as a potential trigger for neurological diseases (NDs), yet the current knowledge regarding the impact of ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) on the patients with NDs remains limited. In this study, we conducted a time-series study to evaluate the association between short-term exposure to NO2 and hospital visits for NDs in Xinxiang, China. Methods An over-dispersed Poisson generalized additive model was used to analyze the association between ambient NO2 concentrations and daily outpatient visits for NDs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017. The model adjusted for meteorological factors, temporal trends, day of the week, and public holidays. The concentrations of air pollutants were collected from four air quality stations in Xinxiang. Results A total of 38, 865 outpatient visits for NDs were retrieved during the study period. 86.5% of the patients were below the age of 65 years. It was revealed that a 10 µg/m3 increase in NO2 at lag 0 was associated with a significant rise of 1.50% (95% CI: 0.45–2.56%) in outpatient visits for NDs, which was stronger during the cold season. However, the overall results from stratified analyses did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions Short-term exposure to NO2 is associated with increased outpatient visits for NDs. These findings underscore the need for implementing mitigating measures to reduce the neurological health effects of air pollutants.

Purpose: The objective was to compare the immediate effects of pharmacological versus physiotherapy intervention versus a combination of physiotherapy and pharmacological treatment, as well as the quality of life and the recurrence of symptoms in children with functional constipation after 3 months. Methods: A total of 69 children with functional constipation between the ages of 5 and 14 years of either gender were assessed and randomly assigned to one of three groups: Group A, B, and C. Visual Analogue Scale, Bristol Stool Form Scale, frequency of defecation, PedsQL GI symptom scale, and PedsQL Generic Core Scale were used as outcome measures. Pharmacology was used to treat Group A, physiotherapy was used to treat Group B, and a combination of both was used to treat Group C. Results: The study revealed statistically significant results on Visual Analogue Scale, Bristol Stool Form Scale, and frequency of defecation in all groups. However, no significant changes were observed on the PedsQL GI symptom scale and the Generic Core scale in Group A, whereas significant changes were observed in Groups B and C. Conclusion: In this study, we found that there were significant differences in the short- and long-term effects across all groups. More changes occurred in Group C than in Groups A and B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundIn recent years, studies have found small-to-medium positive effects of physical activity on academic achievement. Already acute bouts of exercise appear to improve certain cognitive functions. Spatial abilities are one aspect of cognition that is encountered frequently in daily life and that is closely related to success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-subjects. However, little is known about the effects of an acute exercise session on spatial abilities. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effect of a single session of coordinative motor training (CMT) on spatial ability performances in healthy children.MethodsForty-nine children were assigned to either a single session of CMT (i.e., obstacle course with motor coordinative and spatial elements) (n = 25, 12 females, mean age: 10.7 ± 0.6 years) or a resting control group (n = 24, 12 females, mean age ± SD: 11.4 ± 0.5 years). Spatial abilities were evaluated in both groups using the Paper Folding Test (PFT), Mental Rotation Test (MRT), Water Level Task (WLT), Corsi Block Test (CBT), and Numbered Cones Run (NCR).ResultsA statistical main effect for Test was observed for the majority of outcomes (i.e., all but the MRT). Test × Group interactions did not reach the level of significance.ConclusionThe results indicate that a single session of CMT does not improve spatial ability performances of healthy children. Future research should evaluate whether repeated longer-term interventions might be more suitable to generate significant improvements in spatial abilities.

Myokines, released from the muscle, enable communication between the working muscles and other tissues. Their release during physical exercise is assumed to depend on immune–hormonal–metabolic interactions concerning mode (endurance or resistance exercise), duration, and intensity. This meta‐analysis aims to examine the acute changes of circulating myokines inducing immunoregulatory effects caused by a bout of resistance exercise and to consider potential moderators of the results. Based on this selection strategy, a systematic literature search was conducted for resistance exercise intervention studies measuring interleukin (IL‐) 6, IL‐10, IL‐1ra, tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐) α, IL‐15, IL‐7, transforming growth factor (TGF‐) β1, and fractalkines (FKN) before and immediately after resistance exercise in healthy individuals. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed for each myokine. We identified a moderate positive effect of resistance exercise for IL‐6 and IL‐1ra. Regarding IL‐15 and TNF‐α, small to moderate effects were found. For IL‐10, no significant effect was observed. Due to no data, meta‐analyses for IL‐7, TGF‐β1, and FKN could not be performed. No moderators (training status, type of exercise, risk of bias, age, sex, time of day, exercise volume, exercise intensity, exercise dose) of the results were detected for all tested myokines. Taken together, this systematic review and meta‐analysis showed immediate positive effects of an acute resistance exercise session on IL‐6, IL‐1ra, TNF‐α, and IL‐15 levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate if the acute effects of a physical activity (PA) break on the on-task and off-task classroom behavior of primary school children are mediated by inhibition. Combining arousal theory and the cognitive stimulation hypothesis, we employed a 15-min intermittent PA protocol aiming at high-intensity with cognitive demands. We were interested in the effects of PA in real-life settings and in a feasible and sustainable manner for teachers. Thus, the PA session was short and all data collection carried out in ecologically valid school and classroom environments. Methods: Fifteen 4th grade classes were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EG; eight classes, n = 120) or waitlist control group (WCG; seven classes, n = 91). Participants were observed during normal classroom lessons for 25 min before and after the PA break (EG) or a business-as-usual lesson (WCG) and completed the Hearts and Flowers task, a task measuring primarily inhibition, once per observation block. We analyzed the effect of PA on inhibition with ANOVA and the effect on behavior and mediation effect with logistic multilevel models. Results: The PA break positively affected inhibition with a small effect. Active off-task classroom behavior was higher at post-test in the WCG, but not the EG. Of practical importance, intercept-slope interactions indicated that those with higher levels of off-task behavior at pre-test experienced greater benefits of the PA breaks. No significant mediation of the effect of PA on task-related behaviors via inhibition was found. Discussion: In conclusion, a time-efficient PA break can improve inhibition and off-task classroom behavior in primary school children. Although these effects occur concurrently, they appear to be independent of each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at accelerating the implementation of cumulative risk assessment to pesticide residues, this report describes a two‐step prioritisation analysis, on individual pesticides and on target organ systems, that allows to identify (i) low‐priority substances expected to have a marginal contribution to cumulative risk, and (ii) high priority organ systems to be addressed in future cumulative risk assessments. The analysis encompassed 350 substances and 36 raw primary commodities of plant origin surveyed in the monitoring cycle 2019–2021, carried out in 30 population groups, covering 3 age classes, and 17 EU countries. Probabilistic exposure calculations, for chronic and acute effects, were executed on the occurrence and consumption data by a two‐dimensional procedure, modelling variability and uncertainty. In the first step, the prioritisation method adopted allowed to reduce the number of substances by about 80%. These substances were in turn grouped based on their capacity to cause toxicological effects on common organ systems and, as second step, probabilistic combined exposure calculations were carried out for 16 target organ systems. This step allowed to identify the organ systems that need further assessment, reducing their initial number by about 70%. The organ systems would need to be prioritised as follows: reproductive and developmental toxicity, liver, kidney, male reproductive system, and haematopoietic system and haematology. The sources of uncertainty stemming from the modelling procedure and from methodological assumptions were discussed and their impact qualitatively assessed. Overall, it was concluded that the risk estimates for the different organ systems were more likely to be overestimated than underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the effects of multi-component training on the mood state of older women. As part of a multiple-case study, we collected data from three elderly women over the age of 65 using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire. The questionnaire was completed at four different time points: 5 minutes before exercise, 5 minutes after, 30 minutes after, and 60 minutes after exercise. The results showed that multi-component training had a positive effect on the vitality-activity factor, as all participants experienced improvements. These results have important implications for medical professionals, technicians, and sports scientists interested in promoting active aging, especially from an emotional perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of aquarobics on the mood of elderly people. Using the POMS - Profile of Mood States questionnaire, we collected data from three participants, two men and one woman, all over 65 years old. The questionnaire was completed at four different time points: 5 minutes before water exercise, 5 minutes after, 30 minutes after, and 60 minutes after. Our results showed that a single session in water had a positive effect on the state mood of seniors. It was observed that fatigue, depression and tension decreased, while vitality increased. These results are of great importance to medical professionals, sports scientists and advocates of active aging, especially with regard to psychological and emotional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there is clear evidence in the literature that the hematological parameters in athletes of different sports are affected by exercise and varying loads, to our knowledge, there are limited studies on the real impact of kickboxing matches on kickboxers’ hematological parameters. In this context, this cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the acute changes in the hematological parameters of kickboxers following K1 matches. With the participation of 10 kickboxing K1 athletes, the hematological parameters, including the WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, Mono, RBC, Hgb, Hct, CK, La, and glucose levels, were examined before and after matches. Paired sample t-tests were used to compare the pre-test and post-test hematological parameters of the participants. The findings indicated statistically significant differences in the post-match WBC, Plt, Neut, Lymph, CK, La, and glucose levels, while no statistically significant differences were observed in the RBC, Hct, Hgb, and CK levels (p < 0.05). These results not only emphasize the complexity of physiological changes in athletes, but also show consistency with various findings in the literature, while contradicting some. Therefore, it is highlighted that further research is needed to understand the effects of K1 matches on hematological parameters.

Abstract Aiming at accelerating the implementation of cumulative risk assessment to pesticide residues, this report describes a two‐step prioritisation analysis, on individual pesticides and on target organ systems, that allows to identify (i) low‐priority substances expected to have a marginal contribution to cumulative risk, and (ii) high priority organ systems to be addressed in future cumulative risk assessments. The analysis encompassed 350 substances and 36 raw primary commodities of plant origin surveyed in the monitoring cycle 2019–2021, carried out in 30 population groups, covering 3 age classes, and 17 EU countries. Probabilistic exposure calculations, for chronic and acute effects, were executed on the occurrence and consumption data by a two‐dimensional procedure, modelling variability and uncertainty. In the first step, the prioritisation method adopted allowed to reduce the number of substances by about 80%. These substances were in turn grouped based on their capacity to cause toxicological effects on common organ systems and, as second step, probabilistic combined exposure calculations were carried out for 16 target organ systems. This step allowed to identify the organ systems that need further assessment, reducing their initial number by about 70%. The organ systems would need to be prioritised as follows: reproductive and developmental toxicity, liver, kidney, male reproductive system, and haematopoietic system and haematology. The sources of uncertainty stemming from the modelling procedure and from methodological assumptions were discussed and their impact qualitatively assessed. Overall, it was concluded that the risk estimates for the different organ systems were more likely to be overestimated than underestimated.

Background: Capsular bag distension syndrome (CBDS) can be effectively treated using either Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy or surgery. Assessing anterior segment, particularly immediately after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, could provide clinically relevant information on ocular dynamics, refractive changes, and complication mechanisms, especially in late postoperative CBDS.Objective: To explore the acute effects of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy on anterior segment parameters in late postoperative CBDS.Methods and results: In this study, 20 patients underwent Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy after cycloplegia, during which milky-white fluid material migrated into the anterior vitreous. Anterior segment parameters were assessed before and immediately after laser using Scheimpflug-Placido topographer. The main outcome measures were differences in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), aqueous depth (AqD), anterior chamber volume (ACV), iridocorneal angle (ICA), corneal volume (CV), and central corneal thickness (CCT) at the baseline versus at immediately after laser. The mean age and duration since surgery for CBDS presentation were 70.25 ± 6.21 and 6.15 ± 1.31 years, respectively. The AqD, ACV, ICA, and spherical equivalent increased significantly compared with baseline (4.18 vs. 4.02 mm, p = 0.001; 177 vs. 173.55 mm³, p = 0.004; 51.15° vs. 50.15°, p = 0.023; −1.00 vs. −2.00 D, p = 0.003, respectively). These changes were also associated with significantly improved BCVA an hour after capsulotomy [0.2 (0.05–0.2)] relative to baseline [0.3 (0.2–0.5)], (p = 0.001). CCT and CV decreased nonsignificantly; horizontal AC diameter and K1 and K2 increased nonsignificantly (p > 0.05).Conclusions: Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy appears to be an effective CBDS treatment for acutely improving vision, potentially due to immediate refractive changes caused by altered anterior segment parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Mindfulness meditation (MM) involves and benefits cognitive functioning, especially attention and inhibition processes, which are also implicated in the control of complex motor skills, such as bimanual coordination. Thus, MM practice could potentially enhance bimanual coordination control through its cognitive benefits. Accordingly, in this study, we investigated the acute effects of a brief MM session on bimanual coordination dynamics, attention, and inhibition abilities, as well as the mediation link between MM’s cognitive and motor improvements. Methods: Healthy meditation-naïve (novices, n = 29) and meditation-experienced participants (meditators, n = 26) were randomly assigned to either an active control intervention (attentive listening to a documentary podcast) or a MM intervention (breathing and open monitoring exercise), both lasting 15 min. In the motor domain, pre- and post-tests assessed participants’ ability to intentionally maintain the anti-phase coordination pattern at maximal movement frequency and resist the spontaneous transition to the in-phase pattern. In the cognitive domain, the participants’ attentional, perceptual inhibition and motor inhibition abilities were assessed. Results: Following both interventions, meditators and novices improved the stability of their anti-phase coordination pattern (p = 0.034, ηp 2  = 0.10) and their attentional performance (p’s < 0.001, ηp 2  > 0.40). Only following the MM intervention, meditators and novices improved their ability to intentionally maintain the antiphase pattern by delaying or even suppressing the spontaneous transition to inphase (p’s < 0.05, ηp 2 ≥ 0.11), and improved concomitantly their motor inhibition scores (p = 0.011, ηp 2  = 0.13). No effects were found on perceptual inhibition. The increase in motor inhibition capacities did not however statistically mediate the observed acute effects of MM on bimanual coordination control. Conclusion: We showed that a single MM session may have acute benefits in the motor domain regardless of the familiarity with MM practice. Although these benefits were concomitant to enhanced attentional and motor inhibition abilities, no formal mediation link could be established between the observed motor and cognitive benefits. This study paves the way for the investigation of the mechanisms underlying MM effects on motor control, as well as longer-term benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionMindfulness meditation (MM) involves and benefits cognitive functioning, especially attention and inhibition processes, which are also implicated in the control of complex motor skills, such as bimanual coordination. Thus, MM practice could potentially enhance bimanual coordination control through its cognitive benefits. Accordingly, in this study, we investigated the acute effects of a brief MM session on bimanual coordination dynamics, attention, and inhibition abilities, as well as the mediation link between MM’s cognitive and motor improvements.MethodsHealthy meditation-naïve (novices, n = 29) and meditation-experienced participants (meditators, n = 26) were randomly assigned to either an active control intervention (attentive listening to a documentary podcast) or a MM intervention (breathing and open monitoring exercise), both lasting 15 min. In the motor domain, pre- and post-tests assessed participants’ ability to intentionally maintain the anti-phase coordination pattern at maximal movement frequency and resist the spontaneous transition to the in-phase pattern. In the cognitive domain, the participants’ attentional, perceptual inhibition and motor inhibition abilities were assessed.ResultsFollowing both interventions, meditators and novices improved the stability of their anti-phase coordination pattern (p = 0.034, ηp2 = 0.10) and their attentional performance (p’s 0.40). Only following the MM intervention, meditators and novices improved their ability to intentionally maintain the anti-phase pattern by delaying or even suppressing the spontaneous transition to in-phase (p’s

Background: This study compared the acute effects of aerobic (AE) and resistance (RE) exercise on reaction time (RT) and working memory (WM) in individuals with intellectual disability. Methods: RT tests and Corsi test for WM were performed before and after three intervention sessions: AE, RE, or control session consisting on watching video. Results: The RT values decreased significantly (p <.001) after both of AE and RE with higher extend after the RE but did not vary following the control session. Corsi scores increased significantly (p <.001) after AE but not after RE or control session. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the effects of acute exercise on cognitive function in individuals with intellectual disability depend on the exercise mode as well as the nature of the cognitive task. The RE seems to be more recommended for RT enhancement whereas only the aerobic one could improve WM in these individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to validly assess the efficacy of Mozart K.448 on reducing interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in adult patients with drug-resistant focal epilepsy (DRE)., Methods: This is a crossover RCT study. Adults with DRE were included. Stratified 1:1 randomization by epileptic foci i.e., temporal versus extratemporal foci, was performed. Intervention consisted of two study arms i.e., "Mozart arm" and "Control arm". Study period encompassed 2 consecutive nights, each night consisted of baseline and intervention period. Outcomes were IED number and proportion of patients with significant IED reduction i.e., reduction ≥ 25 %. Within-group, within-subject and between-group analyses were used to test differences of IED number when listened to the Mozart piece as compared with baseline or with Control., Results: Twenty-six patients were randomized; 13 in Mozart and 13 in Control arm. Overall, 16 (61.54 %) out of 26 patients had significant IED reduction when listening to the Mozart piece, as compared with only 7 (26.92 %) when continuing sleep (silence). Between-group analysis showed that IED number during intervention period i.e., listening to the Mozart piece in Mozart arm and silence in Control arm was significantly different, with a lower number in Mozart arm, 39.5 (IQR 89) vs 56.5 (IQR 114); p = 0.007., Conclusions: Our study demonstrates an acute effect of the Mozart K.448 on reducing IEDs in adult patients with DRE. Patients with temporal rather than extratemporal lobe epilepsy better responded to the Mozart piece. Mozart K.448 is safe and feasible in real practice. Further RCT study assessing its long-term effect is warranted., Trial Registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry, TCTR20231019005, 19 October 2023, "retrospectively registered"., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest No conflict exists for all authors., (Copyright © 2024 British Epilepsy Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The surface of a biomedical implant can be a potential endogenous source of release of microparticles (MPs) and nanoparticles (NPs) into the biological environment. In addition, titanium particles from exogenous sources can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact. The aim of this work was to evaluate the biological response of the lung, liver, and kidneys to acute exposure to titanium dioxide (TiO2). Male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally injected with a suspension of 45 μm or 5 nm TiO2 particles. One month post‐exposure, titanium concentration was determined spectrometrically (ICP‐MS) in plasma and target organs. Blood smears and organ tissue samples were examined histopathologically, and oxidative metabolism was analyzed (superoxide anion by nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) test; superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT); lipid peroxidation; paraoxonase 1). Liver (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase) and kidney (urea, creatinine) function was evaluated using serum biochemical markers. Microchemical and histological analysis revealed the presence of particles, though no structural alterations, in TiO2‐exposed groups. NBT test showed an increase in the percentage of reactive cells and antioxidant enzyme consumption in lung samples in the 45 μm and 5 nm TiO2‐exposed groups. Only the 5 nm particles caused a decrease in SOD and CAT activity in the liver. No changes in renal oxidative metabolism were observed in either of the TiO2‐exposed groups. Determination of serum biochemical markers and analysis of oxidative metabolism are not early bioindicators of tissue damage caused by TiO2 MPs and NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental toxicants can cause systemic effects, such as fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), which can penetrate the respiratory barrier and induce effects in multiple tissues. Although metabolomics has been used to identify biomarkers for PM 2.5 , its multi-tissue toxicology has not yet been explored holistically. Our objective is to explore PM 2.5 induced metabolic alterations and unveil the intra-tissue responses along with inter-tissue communicational effects. In this study, following a single intratracheal instillation of multiple doses (0, 25, and 150 μg as the control, low, and high dose), non-targeted metabolomics was employed to evaluate the metabolic impact of PM 2.5 across multiple tissues. PM 2.5 induced tissue-specific and dose-dependent disturbances of metabolites and their pathways. The remarkable increase of both intra- and inter-tissue correlations was observed, with emphasis on the metabolism connectivity among lung, spleen, and heart; the tissues' functional specificity has marked their toxic modes. Beyond the inter-status comparison of the metabolite fold-changes, the current correlation network built on intra-status can offer additional insights into how the multiple tissues and their metabolites coordinately change in response to external stimuli such as PM 2.5 exposure. [Display omitted] • PM 2.5 exposure induced tissue-specific and dose-dependent metabolic response. • PM 2.5 exposure reshaped intra-tissue and inter-tissue metabolism communication. • Glycerophospholipid metabolism dysregulation is universal early molecular event. • Enhanced connectivity in lung, spleen and heart marked the toxic modes of PM 2.5. • The correlation network built on each state helps explore coordinated responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Water-polo is the water sport with the highest incidence of injuries, with shoulder pain being the most common one. The understanding of risk factors and guidance on preventive measures is essential in this sport discipline. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a specific 6-week training plan on range of motion (ROM) and joint strength levels in a group of professional water-polo players. Methods: Quasi-experimental study with a sample of 28 participants (age: 20.1 ± 2.5 years; height: 176.9 ± 6.2 cm; body mass: 74.6 ± 8.1 kg). Three study groups, which consisted of one control group and two experimental groups, were established. Two repeated measurements, pre and post intervention, were performed. During these measurements, ROM of the glenohumeral joint was analyzed both in external (ER) and internal (IR) rotation, as well as the maximal isometric strength. Conclusions: The application of a training program improved glenohumeral joint ROM. ER and IR evolve differently in both shoulders. ER improved only in the throwing arm only in the group undergoing intervention but for the non-dominant side, improvements were observed in both ER and IR, regardless of whether or not they had followed the intervention plan. No improvements were observed in either the isometric strength or contralateral asymmetries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neotropical fish Cnesterodon decemmaculatus were exposed to different sublethal concentrations (0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 mg As/L) of sodium arsenite (As III) to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50; 96 h) and to evaluate the response of a set of biomarkers (genotoxic, behavioral, biochemical, and metabolic). At the end of the exposure (96 h), fish were video‐recorded for behavior assessment. We used the micronucleus and nuclear abnormality tests and the comet assay in peripheral blood as genotoxicity biomarkers. In regard to biochemical and metabolic biomarkers, we dissected the brain for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity; the liver for glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activity and glutathione content (GSH); the gills for GSH content; and muscle for AChE, energy metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins, and the electron transport system activity of the mitochondrial chain. We calculated an index using metabolic biomarkers, to determine the cellular energy allocation. The LC50 value was 7.32 mg As/L. The As affected some swimming parameters in females. No significant differences in micronucleus were found compared with the control, whereas nuclear aberrations increased significantly at 1.0 and 5.0 mg As/L. The genomic damage index and the percentage of cells with DNA damage (measured by the comet assay) showed a significant increase in the As‐treated groups, and this technique was the most sensitive for detecting genotoxic damage. The As affected the antioxidant system (mainly GSH, CAT, and GST) and reduced the lipid content. A preliminary baseline was generated for the response of C. decemmaculatus exposed to sublethal concentrations of As, when it alters swimming behavior and the antioxidant system, has genotoxic effects, and reduces lipid content. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1246–1259. © 2022 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Oil pollution has significantly contributed to coral reef decline in the last five decades and a major oil spill reached Brazilian tropical coast in August 2019. Here, we report the first evidence of direct crude oil contact from that spill on reef coral species, and evaluate the effects of this disaster on coral vitality and benthic assemblage structure on the largest coastal marine protected area (MPA Costa dos Corais) in Brazil. We compared benthic cover in reefs with and without oil and monitored Siderastrea stellata colonies 90 days after oil contact. Oil stains between 0.5 and 150 cm were found in two of the 17 reef sites investigated. Multivariate analyses did not detect significant differences between oiled and non-oiled reefs and there was no evidence of S. stellata health deterioration. These results indicate minimal acute effects on coral vitality and intertidal reef benthic assemblage structure. Future studies should investigate oil effects on specific aspects of coral biology as growth, reproduction, bleaching susceptibility and metagenomics which can deteriorate over longer time frames, and we recommend long-term coral reef monitoring to support a robust assessment and mitigation of chronic oil impacts.

The aim of the present investigation was to compare the acute non-localized post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) of an exercise protocol involving either the upper or the lower body muscles. Twenty-four resistance trained men participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to an upper body (UB) or to a lower body (LB) group. Both groups tested for upper and lower body power (bench press throw (BPT) and countermovement jump power (CMJP) tests). Participants in the UB group were tested pre and post a high-intensity (HI) and a high-power (POW) bench press protocol while participants in the LB group performed a HI squat and a jump session (POW). A significant group × time interaction was found for CMJP in HI (p = 0.012). Post hoc tests revealed that CMJP was elevated in UB group only (+1.6%; p = 0.025). No other significant interactions were detected. Results of this study indicate that a non-localized PAPE on the lower body may be induced by a HI bench press protocol while a HI squat protocol may not increase upper body power. In particular, the squat protocol performed in the present study (5 sets of 1 rep) may be too demanding to produce a non-localized PAPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental toxicants can cause systemic effects, such as fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ), which can penetrate the respiratory barrier and induce effects in multiple tissues. Although metabolomics has been used to identify biomarkers for PM 2.5 , its multi-tissue toxicology has not yet been explored holistically. Our objective is to explore PM 2.5 induced metabolic alterations and unveil the intra-tissue responses along with inter-tissue communicational effects. In this study, following a single intratracheal instillation of multiple doses (0, 25, and 150 μg as the control, low, and high dose), non-targeted metabolomics was employed to evaluate the metabolic impact of PM 2.5 across multiple tissues. PM 2.5 induced tissue-specific and dose-dependent disturbances of metabolites and their pathways. The remarkable increase of both intra- and inter-tissue correlations was observed, with emphasis on the metabolism connectivity among lung, spleen, and heart; the tissues' functional specificity has marked their toxic modes. Beyond the inter-status comparison of the metabolite fold-changes, the current correlation network built on intra-status can offer additional insights into how the multiple tissues and their metabolites coordinately change in response to external stimuli such as PM 2.5 exposure., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Water-polo is the water sport with the highest incidence of injuries, with shoulder pain being the most common one. The understanding of risk factors and guidance on preventive measures is essential in this sport discipline. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a specific 6-week training plan on range of motion (ROM) and joint strength levels in a group of professional water-polo players. Methods: Quasi-experimental study with a sample of 28 participants (age: 20.1 ± 2.5 years; height: 176.9 ± 6.2 cm; body mass: 74.6 ± 8.1 kg). Three study groups, which consisted of one control group and two experimental groups, were established. Two repeated measurements, pre and post intervention, were performed. During these measurements, ROM of the glenohumeral joint was analyzed both in external (ER) and internal (IR) rotation, as well as the maximal isometric strength. Conclusions: The application of a training program improved glenohumeral joint ROM. ER and IR evolve differently in both shoulders. ER improved only in the throwing arm only in the group undergoing intervention but for the non-dominant side, improvements were observed in both ER and IR, regardless of whether or not they had followed the intervention plan. No improvements were observed in either the isometric strength or contralateral asymmetries.

The aim of the present investigation was to compare the acute non-localized post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) of an exercise protocol involving either the upper or the lower body muscles. Twenty-four resistance trained men participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to an upper body (UB) or to a lower body (LB) group. Both groups tested for upper and lower body power (bench press throw (BPT) and countermovement jump power (CMJP) tests). Participants in the UB group were tested pre and post a high-intensity (HI) and a high-power (POW) bench press protocol while participants in the LB group performed a HI squat and a jump session (POW). A significant group × time interaction was found for CMJP in HI (p = 0.012). Post hoc tests revealed that CMJP was elevated in UB group only (+1.6%; p = 0.025). No other significant interactions were detected. Results of this study indicate that a non-localized PAPE on the lower body may be induced by a HI bench press protocol while a HI squat protocol may not increase upper body power. In particular, the squat protocol performed in the present study (5 sets of 1 rep) may be too demanding to produce a non-localized PAPE.

Is Physical Activity a Treatment Option for ADHD? Abstract: Physical activity as an option for the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders is increasingly becoming the focus of research. In particular, because of improvements in cognitive functioning, attentional performance, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, physical exercise could be a promising treatment option for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this narrative review, we present and evaluate the current state of research on exercise effects in children and adolescents as well as in adults with ADHD. While studies of the short-term effects of a single bout of physical activity indicate robust effects on attention and inhibitory control, results on the impact on further symptoms of ADHD as well as in adults are mixed. Randomized controlled trials of longer-term physical activity are scarce and show high heterogeneity. Nevertheless, they are encouraging for further research in this area.