Review
Health Care Sciences & Services
Guilian Chen, Tong Wang, Lirong Zhong, Xinghui He, Chunxia Huang, Yingmin Wang, Kun Li
Summary: Telemedicine is a feasible way to prevent pressure injuries among patients with spinal cord injuries. It can decrease the incidence and severity of pressure injuries and accelerate patients' healing without imposing an economic burden. It is best used in tandem with other, more conventional interventions.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INTERNET RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jinxing Hou, Huiru Bi, Qiting Ge, Huajian Teng, Guoqiang Wan, Bin Yu, Qing Jiang, Xiaosong Gu
Summary: Astrocytes play important roles in spinal cord injury and show heterogeneity. This study identified six distinct astrocyte subtypes following injury and characterized their distribution and dynamic evolution, providing new targets for spinal cord injury repair.
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Li Deng, Jun Qiao Lv, Lin Sun
Summary: This study systematically analyzed the experimental treatments and their mechanisms for reducing blood spinal cord barrier (BSCB) injury in the early stage of traumatic spinal cord injury (t-SCI). BMSC-Exos, which inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression, are currently the most effective therapeutic modality for alleviating BSCB damage. In addition, the regulation of MMPs, the Akt pathway, and the ER stress pathway play important roles in alleviating BSCB injury.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
R. Vivian Allahyari, Nicolette M. Heinsinger, Daniel Hwang, David A. Jaffe, Javad Rasouli, Stephanie Shiers, Samantha J. Thomas, Theodore J. Price, Abdolmohamad Rostami, Angelo C. Lepore
Summary: This study investigates the astrocyte heterogeneity in the spinal cord and its potential role in synaptic generation. The results suggest that the distribution of astrocyte subpopulations and the expression of synapse formation-associated genes did not change significantly after spinal cord injury in mice. These findings indicate a possible conservation of spinal cord astrocyte heterogeneity across species.
Review
Cell Biology
Farihah Iqbal Khan, Zubair Ahmed
Summary: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex and prolonged injury process that leads to loss of neurological functions. Current treatments are limited and novel treatments targeting ongoing injury processes are needed. In a systematic review of studies, combined tetrahedral framework nucleic acid with neural stem cells and Fortasyn (R) Connect supplementation showed significant improvements in functional recovery and attenuated secondary injury processes.
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Mengdie Hu, Zhidong Cao, Dianming Jiang
Summary: MiRNA-modified exosomes have great potential in the treatment of spinal cord injury, and their efficacy is superior to that of exosomes alone. In addition, the SCI model, administration time, and dose have an impact on the treatment effect.
FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ezra Valido, Gabriela Boehl, Joerg Krebs, Juergen Pannek, Stevan Stojic, Atanas G. Atanasov, Marija Glisic, Jivko Stoyanov, Athanasia Mouzaki
Summary: Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) have higher infection rates compared to those without SCI. This review investigated the immune status difference between individuals with SCI and without SCI by examining their peripheral immune cells and markers. The results showed that immune cells in individuals with SCI had lower functional capability and exhibited higher levels of leukocytes, neutrophils, C-reactive protein (CRP), and IL6.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Sung Huang Laurent Tsai, Chun-Ru Lin, Shih-Chieh Shao, Chao-Hua Fang, Tsai-Sheng Fu, Tung-Yi Lin, Yu-Chiang Hung
Summary: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids for pain reduction in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The findings suggest that cannabinoids may not provide significant pain relief for SCI patients and may increase the likelihood of adverse events.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Cell & Tissue Engineering
Francisco Javier Rodriguez-Jimenez, Pavla Jendelova, Slaven Erceg
Summary: Ependymal cells, dormant progenitors in the spinal cord, undergo significant changes following spinal cord injury (SCI). The understanding of molecular events that activate ependymal cells after SCI is crucial for controlling the regenerative response in damaged tissues. This review focuses on cell adhesion molecules, cellular membrane receptors, ion channels, and transcription factors that mediate SCI-induced activation of ependymal cells. The coordinated expression of receptors and ion channels regulates ependymal cell activation and may contribute to cellular replacement and tissue regeneration after SCI.
STEM CELL RESEARCH & THERAPY
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Peter Francis Raguindin, Alessandro Bertolo, Ramona Maria Zeh, Gion Frankl, Oche Adam Itodo, Simona Capossela, Lia Bally, Beatrice Minder, Mirjam Brach, Inge Eriks-Hoogland, Jivko Stoyanov, Taulant Muka, Marija Glisic
Summary: Individuals with tetraplegia tend to have higher fat composition and higher indicators of central adiposity compared to those with paraplegia, while also exhibiting lower lean mass. This study suggests that anthropometric measures, such as body mass index, may not accurately reflect adiposity in individuals with SCI.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Weiyi Zhao, Natalie Gasterich, Tim Clarner, Clara Voelz, Victoria Behrens, Cordian Beyer, Athanassios Fragoulis, Adib Zendedel
Summary: This study suggests that activation of Nrf2 in astrocytes protects against spinal cord injury by reducing oxidative damage and neuroinflammation.
JOURNAL OF NEUROINFLAMMATION
(2022)
Review
Neurosciences
Soshi Samejima, Richard Henderson, Jared Pradarelli, Sarah E. Mondello, Chet T. Moritz
Summary: Spinal cord injuries often result in permanent physical impairments despite being incomplete disruptions. However, remaining connections between the brain and spinal cord can induce neural plasticity to improve sensorimotor function, even years post-injury. This review provides an overview of evidence for motor recovery, plasticity, and interventions in spinal cord stimulation for motor control restoration. It discusses both open-loop and closed-loop stimulation approaches, as well as mechanisms of spinal cord neuromodulation for sensorimotor recovery, aiming to advance rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries.
EXPERIMENTAL NEUROLOGY
(2022)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Hong Kyung Shin, Jin Hoon Park, Sung Woo Roh, Sang Ryong Jeon
Summary: After hypothermia treatment following acute SCI, more than 50% of patients showed improvement in neurological function. The proportion of cases showing neurological improvement was higher in the systemic hypothermia group compared to the local hypothermia group, although the difference was not statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in the proportion of cases with neurological improvement between cervical spine and thoracic spine injury groups.
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Bo Xu, Jiaqi Fang, Jianguang Wang, Xuehan Jin, Shengfu Liu, Kaihang Song, Ping Wang, Junjian Liu, Shuhao Liu
Summary: This study investigated the protective effect of edaravone on blood spinal cord barrier (BSCB) disruption after spinal cord injury (SCI). The results showed that edaravone treatment promoted functional recovery, improved vascular damage, and up-regulated BSCB-associated proteins in rats with SCI. In vitro experiments also demonstrated that edaravone improved cell viability, restored intercellular junctions, and promoted angiogenic activities. The underlying mechanism may involve the improvement of autophagy and the phosphorylation of RIP1/RIP3/MLKL. Overall, edaravone can be a potential treatment option for SCI.
BIOMEDICINE & PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2023)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Zhenye Zhang, Nan Cheng, Jianfen Liang, Yifan Deng, Ping Xiang, Ziqing Hei, Xiang Li
Summary: This study conducts a meta-analysis to explore the changes in intestinal flora in spinal cord injury animal models. The findings suggest that there is a significant decline in the evenness and richness of the intestinal flora, and certain bacteria may be characteristic of spinal cord injury models. However, further research is needed to address the heterogeneity and limited sample size, and to explore the clinical application of intestinal microbiota and fecal microbiota transplantation therapy.
ANNALS OF MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Rehabilitation
Tina Makris, Diana Dorstyn, Angela Crettenden
Summary: The study found that children and adolescents with cerebral palsy are mainly affected in terms of physical quality of life, but the impact on psychological and social aspects varies depending on the measurement used. Parental evaluations generally indicate lower physical quality of life for their children compared to self-reported scores.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2021)
Review
Psychiatry
Matthew W. R. Stevens, Diana Dorstyn, Paul H. Delfabbro, Daniel L. King
Summary: The worldwide prevalence of gaming disorder is around 3.05%, but varies significantly depending on factors such as assessment tools and sampling criteria. Studies that met more stringent sampling criteria showed a lower prevalence of 1.96%. Gaming disorder rates are higher in males compared to females.
AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY
(2021)
Article
Computer Science, Cybernetics
Belinda G. Fuss, Diana Dorstyn, Lynn Ward
Summary: Older adults were particularly at risk for loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using computers for communication can enhance social interactions and relationships for older people. Research found that older adults with high CMC usage showed better social functioning, despite a decrease in weekly CMC use during the pandemic while CMC behaviors remained consistent.
BEHAVIOUR & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Rehabilitation
Matthew Hartley, Clemence Due, Diana Dorstyn
Summary: Studies reveal that caregivers of ASD patients feel the need to adjust mindfulness practice to fit busy lifestyles; ASD adult patients face therapy barriers that require further research; ASD children focus on the benefits of therapy.
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION
(2022)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Diana S. Dorstyn, Anna Chur-Hansen, Ella Mansell, Gregory Murphy, Rachel M. Roberts, Peter Stewart, Elizabeth Potter, Ian Kneebone, Ashley Craig
Summary: This study explores stakeholder perspectives and experiences with the job search process for individuals with spinal cord injuries or disorders (SCI/D), in order to identify service gaps and solutions for returning to work. The findings suggest that the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) systems model provides a broad framework for understanding the complex return-to-work process, and vocational rehabilitation should include motivational support to enhance job readiness. Addressing discrimination through employment policies is also crucial. The results will be used to develop intervention targets for a newly established vocational rehabilitation service.
JOURNAL OF SPINAL CORD MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Education, Scientific Disciplines
Shaun Prentice, Jill Benson, Diana Dorstyn, Taryn Elliott
Summary: The study confirms the complex and multifaceted nature of wellbeing experienced by family medicine and general practice trainees. Psychological factors such as emotional intelligence, positive mental health, self-confidence, and resilience, as well as positive interpersonal relationships, rewards, and balanced interactions between personal and professional demands, are identified as critical elements.
TEACHING AND LEARNING IN MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Amanda J. Osborn, Rachel M. Roberts, Diana S. Dorstyn, Ben G. Grave, David J. David
Summary: Findings from 32 studies on individuals with sagittal synostosis (SS) showed varied results, with some experiencing negative cognitive, behavioral, and psychological outcomes, highlighting the necessity for routine assessments.
Article
Rehabilitation
Diana Dorstyn, Melissa Oxlad, Rachel Roberts, Gregory Murphy, Elizabeth Potter, Ian Kneebone, Ashley Craig
Summary: This pilot study aimed to improve exploration of employment options in job-seekers with long-term multiple sclerosis through an online peer discussion forum. Despite a high attrition rate, intervention completers valued the guidance and expertise provided by online mentors. While both MS JobSeek and control participants reported positive changes, group and time effects were not significant.
JOURNAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
(2022)
Article
Rehabilitation
Chenchen Yang, Elias Mpofu, Xiaoli Li, Diana Dorstyn, Qiwei Li, Kaye Brock
Summary: The study found that determinants of physical activity participation among older adults with type 2 diabetes included personality traits (high extraversion, low neuroticism), body mass index, pain levels, depression, and cognitive functioning. These biopsychosocial factors explained 20% of the variance in physical activity participation.
AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF REHABILITATION COUNSELLING
(2021)
Review
Rehabilitation
Ian I. Kneebone, Brooke E. Van Zanden, Diana S. Dorstyn, Rachel M. Roberts, Stephen R. Lord, Dawn Querstret, Alice Theadom, David S. Kennedy, Jay Raman, Roshan das Nair
Summary: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of relaxation therapies in treating symptoms and sequelae of multiple sclerosis. The results show that relaxation can improve depression, anxiety, stress, and fatigue, but the comparison with established psychological or physical therapies is mixed. However, due to the high risk of bias in the included studies, stronger conclusions cannot be drawn at present.
CLINICAL REHABILITATION
(2022)
Review
Education, Scientific Disciplines
Shaun Prentice, Jill Benson, Diana Dorstyn, Taryn Elliott
Summary: Efforts to promote wellbeing and reduce burnout among postgraduate medical trainees have faced obstacles due to lack of understanding of intervention mechanisms and delivery. This literature review focuses on Family Medicine/General Practice trainees and identifies key change mechanisms and delivery methods for wellbeing interventions. The findings offer guidance for future research and program design.
TEACHING AND LEARNING IN MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Education, Special
Matthew Hartley, Diana Dorstyn, Clemence Due
Summary: In this study, the feasibility of a self-guided mindfulness app, Smiling Mind, for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their parents was examined. The trial encountered challenges in recruitment, enrollment, and retention, resulting in a small sample size. Time commitments and distractions were identified as barriers to participation. To maximize sampling and engagement, future research should consider broadening recruitment strategies, partnering with community services and schools, and incorporating regular communication with participants.
RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
(2022)
Review
Behavioral Sciences
Tina Makris, Diana S. Dorstyn
Summary: This article provides an up-to-date review of the current evidence-base on the effectiveness of third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies for people with epilepsy. The study shows that acceptance techniques and mindfulness practice may bring mental health benefits for some individuals with epilepsy, but the results are not consistent for everyone.
EPILEPSY & BEHAVIOR
(2022)
Article
Education, Scientific Disciplines
Shaun Prentice, Taryn Elliott, Diana Dorstyn, Jill Benson
Summary: This study aimed to explore and conceptualize burnout and wellbeing among medical trainees. Grounded theory was used as the research method to collect data from interviews and focus groups. The findings revealed that burnout and wellbeing are multifaceted constructs that are interconnected, and value fulfilment is proposed as a basic change mechanism.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Shaun Prentice, Taryn Elliott, Diana Dorstyn, Jill Benson
Summary: The study explores stakeholders' views of burnout interventions within Australian general practice training. The findings highlight the importance of both individual and organizational-level changes in preventing and managing burnout.
AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF GENERAL PRACTICE
(2022)