The aim of the current study was to establish the interplay between blood flow patterns within a large cerebral artery and a downstream microvascular segment under conditions of transiently reduced mean arterial pressure (MAP). We report data from nine young, healthy participants (5 women; 26 ± 4 years) acquired during a 15 s bout of sudden-onset lower body negative pressure (LBNP; -80 mmHg). Simultaneous changes in microvascular cerebral blood flow (CBF) and middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAvmean) were captured using diffuse correlation spectroscopy and transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD), respectively. Brachial blood pressure (finger photoplethysmography) and TCD waveforms were extracted at baseline and during the nadir BP response to LBNP and analyzed using a modified Windkessel model to calculate indices of cerebrovascular resistance (Ri) and compliance (Ci). Compared to baseline, rapid-onset LBNP decreased MAP by 22 ± 16% and Ri by 14 ± 10% (both P ≤ 0.03). Ci increased (322 ± 298%; P <0.01) but MCAvmean (-8 ± 16%; P = 0.09) and CBF (-2 ± 3%; P = 0.29) were preserved. The results provide evidence that changes in both vascular resistance and compliance preserve CBF, as indexed by no significant changes in MCAvmean or DCS microvascular flow, during transient hypotension.

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that commonly affects the basal ganglia dopaminergic signaling system, which can contribute to moderate-severe gait impairments in individuals. Many therapies have been proposed to mitigate this effect, however, there are often issues to consider such as the relative invasiveness of the procedure and other side effects. Rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) is a non-invasive therapeutic avenue with the potential to mitigate associated impairments in gait parameters. This review aims to evaluate the recent literature regarding the efficacy of this intervention in improving gait parameters in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Methods: PubMed and OVID Medline databases were consulted to find nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) written in the English language, published between 2012 and 2022 and subject to a strict inclusion criterion. Keywords included, but were not limited to, "Parkinson's disease", "rhythmic auditory stimulation", and "gait". Outcomes were critically analyzed, and their implications were evaluated in the context of existing research within this field. Results: Many of the studies showed a strong immediate improvement in several of the gait parameters, such as speed, stride length, cadence, balance, and falls, identified across a variety of RCT designs. However, many reviewed studies included a small sample size (n ≤ 30) and showed no significant outcomes in specific parameters, and several lacked an adequate follow-up period, limiting assessment of long-term efficacy. Discussion: The findings showed strong implications surrounding the use of rhythmic cues to prime the motor system to facilitate gait relearning and motor rehabilitation, at least in the short term. This method can be applied in future therapeutic avenues to address gait rehabilitation in a non-invasive manner. Conclusion: Existing literature demonstrates that RAS therapy is a promising method to incorporate into such therapeutic avenues; however, further research for the long-term efficacy of this approach is required.

There is growing evidence that technology-enhanced teaching can foster engagement in scientific literacy for all students. For example, immersive educational technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), focus on engaging students by providing interactive experiences that intrinsically motivate them to explore both virtual and real environments for science learning. We developed a "tap-to-place" highly immersive augmented reality application, Marine XR, that uses the principles of gamification, simulation, role-playing and immersion to engage students in scientific concepts. Marine XR focuses on one of the world's ocean giants, the basking shark, to teach students fundamental scientific skills, while simultaneously emphasizing the importance of ocean conservation. We conducted a controlled experimental study comparing the impact of Marine XR to a more traditional webbased learning module in a large, first-year environmental sciences class under remote learning conditions (~200 students). Specifically, we measured how motivation, engagement, engrossment, and cognitive load differed between the two groups within the context of their attitudes towards science (as assessed by the Modified Attitudes Towards Science instrument). In addition, we investigated whether Marine XR could increase motivation to participate in a subsequent learning experience. The results of the study and its consequences will be discussed.

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection is thought to be implicated in an increased risk for various neurodegenerative diseases given its role in neuroinflammation. As a result, cognitive assistive technologies to monitor the risk of neurodegenerative diseases in those with prior COVID-19 infection and the regular implementation of practices designed to promote synaptic plasticity may decrease the risk of dementia in susceptible populations. It is hypothesized that incorporating frequent use of a mobile application designed to improve memory five times per week in the daily routines of patients aged 65+ who have survived a COVID-19 infection may decrease the prevalence of subsequent dementia. Methods: The goal of this application would be to (i) deliver interventions related to long-term potentiation, and (ii) centralizing patient health data in a singular domain to improve ease of access for caregivers and medical staff. This may be investigated through a two-pronged randomized controlled trial aimed to compare neural and cognitive functioning through repeat neuropsychological exams, magnetic resonance imaging, and electroencephalogram tests over a 6-year timeframe between no-intervention and intervention groups while collecting caregiver and healthcare worker data regarding its efficacy in improving quality of life. Results: It is expected that patients consistently using cognitive assistive technologies in long-term care facilities will experience lower incidence of cognitive decline compared to the control group due to improved maintenance of mental health and the learning of new skills. In addition, with the use of technology, patients may experience increased autonomy and independence, improving their quality of life while simultaneously providing relief to their families and caregivers. Discussion: Some further considerations may include the degree of technological proficiency of the patients during the development process to ensure that patients reap the maximum benefits. Factors including rapid development and testing, funding, and strong technology support systems must be taken into consideration to ensure a seamless transition to increased reliance on technology in post-COVID-19 patients with dementia. Conclusion: Strong evidence indicates technology-based interventions can be used to by dementia patients and their caretakers overcome physical and environmental challenges normally and during future pandemic waves.