bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the system construction and development path of intelligent agriculture in China
Authors: Deng Tao
Published: October 2021

Intelligent agriculture is a highly systematic and integrated project that includes modern information technologies such as big data, cloud computing, 5G, blockchain, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. The synergistic combination of multiple technologies determines the effectiveness of intelligent agriculture. Therefore, the implementation of individual technologies in particular regions cannot usually deliver all the potential advantages of intelligent agriculture. It is necessary to promote the integration of information technologies with a high degree of cooperation amongst different regions to achieve the overall development of the country. This article aims to detail the systematic framework of intelligent agriculture, clarify each structural part and, from the perspective of organizational function, elucidate each part's information technology function and the interactions between different technologies, and thus improve the structural system of intelligent agriculture. By also evaluating China's advantages (such as policy support, economies of scale and development stage) and challenges in developing intelligent agriculture, the article identifies the development priorities for the next development stage. Finally, it makes several policy suggestions, including improving vision, expanding investment, promoting integration and cultivating talent. This article is expected to contribute to the development of intelligent agriculture in China.
Efficacy of Routine Intraoperative Cranio-Femoral Traction in Surgical Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Curves Measuring Between 50° and 90°
Authors: Carl Jacob R. , Pannu Gurpal , Chua Evan Cherng-Yeh , Bacon Adam , Durbin-Johnson Blythe , Javidan Yashar , Klineberg Eric O. , Roberto Rolando F.
Published: October 2021

Study Design

Retrospective Comparative Study, Level III.

Objective

In patients with scoliosis >90°, cranio-femoral traction (CFT) has been shown to obtain comparable curve correction with decreased operative time and blood loss. Routine intraoperative CFT use in the treatment of AIS <90° has not been established definitively. This study investigates the effectiveness of intraoperative CFT in the treatment of AIS between 50° and 90°, comparing the magnitude of curve correction, blood loss, operative time, and traction-related complications with and without CFT.

Methods

73 patients with curves less than 90° were identified, 36 without and 37 with cranio-femoral traction. Neuromuscular scoliosis and revision surgery were excluded. Age, preoperative Cobb angles, bending angles, and curve types were recorded. Surgical characteristics were analyzed including number of levels fused, estimated blood loss, operative time, major curve correction (%), and degree of postoperative kyphosis.

Results

Patients with traction had significantly higher preoperative major curves but no difference in age or flexibility. Lenke 1 curves had significantly shorter operative time and improvement in curve correction with traction. Among subjects with 5 to 8 levels fused, subjects with traction had significantly less EBL. Operative time was significantly shorter for subjects with 5-8 levels and 9-11 levels fused. Curves measuring 50°-75° showed improved correction with traction.

Conclusion

Intraoperative traction resulted in shorter intraoperative time and greater correction of major curves during surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis less than 90°. Strong considerations should be given to use of intraoperative CFT for moderate AIS.
Global Plastic Surgery: A Review of the Field and a Call for Virtual Training in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Ullrich Peter J. , Ramsey Matthew D.
Published: October 2021

Lack of surgical access severely harms countless populations in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many types of surgery could be fulfilled by the plastic surgeon, as populations in these areas often experience trauma, burns, cleft lip and palate, and other relevant medical issues. Plastic surgeons continue to contribute significant time and energy to global health, primarily by participating in short mission trips intended to provide many surgeries in a short time frame. These trips, while cost-effective for lack of long-term commitments, are not sustainable as they require high initial costs, often neglect to educate local physicians, and can interfere with regional systems. Education of local plastic surgeons is a key step toward creating sustainable plastic surgery interventions worldwide. Virtual platforms have grown popular and effective—particularly due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic—and have shown to be beneficial in the field of plastic surgery for both diagnosis and teaching. However, there remains a large potential to create more extensive and effective virtual platforms in high-income nations geared to educate plastic surgeons in LMICs to lower costs and more sustainably provide capacity to physicians in low access areas of the world.
Dupuytren's Contracture: The Readability of Online Information
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Shayan , Blazar Philip , Earp Brandon E , Zhang Dafang
Published: October 2021

Dupuytren's contracture is a common hand pathology for which consultation and treatment are largely at the patient's discretion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the readability of current online patient information regarding Dupuytren's contracture. The largest public search engines (Google, Yahoo, and Bing) were queried using the search terms “Dupuytren's contracture,” “Dupuytren's disease,” “Viking's disease,” and “bent finger.” The first 30 unique websites by each search were analyzed and readability assessed using five established algorithms: Flesch Reading Ease, Gunning-Fog Index, Flesch–Kincaid Grade level, Coleman–Liau index, and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook grade level. Analysis of 73 websites demonstrated an average Flesch Reading Ease score of 48.6 ± 8.0, which corresponds to college reading level. The readability of websites ranged from 10.5 to 13.3 reading grade level. No article was written at or below the recommended sixth grade reading level. Information on the internet on Dupuytren's contracture is written at higher than recommended reading grade level. There is a need for high-quality patient information on Dupuytren's contracture at appropriate reading grade levels for patients of various health literacy backgrounds. Hospitals, universities, and academic organizations focused on the development of readable online information should consider patients’ input and preferences.
The Relationship Between the Distal Tibial Fibular Syndesmosis and the Varus Deformity in Patients With Varus Ankle Osteoarthritis
Authors: Kurokawa Hiroaki , Taniguchi Akira , Miyamoto Takuma , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: October 2021

Background:

The impact of varus ankle osteoarthritis (OA) on the distal tibial fibular syndesmosis is poorly described. This study aimed to investigate the possible relationship between the condition of the distal tibial fibular syndesmosis and the degree of the varus deformity using weightbearing simulated computed tomography (CT), in patients with varus ankle OA.

Methods:

This retrospective comparative study included 155 varus ankles, divided into 4 Takakura-Tanaka groups (stage 2, 3a, 3b, and 4). A control group comprised 35 ankles without prior ankle disorders. The angles between the tibial shaft and the articular surface of the tibial plafond on the anteroposterior view (TAS), and articular surfaces of the tibial plafond and talar dome (TTW) were measured from weightbearing ankle radiographs. The varus angle of the ankle (VA) was defined as 90 – TAS + TTW. On the CT axial view, 1 cm proximal to the tibial plafond, the area of the syndesmosis (“CT-area”) and the distance between the fibula and the tibia (CT-FCS) were measured.

Results:

The CT area in stages 2, 3a, 3b, 4, and control group were 99, 79, 77, 103, and 97 mm2, respectively. The CT-FCS were 3.5, 3.1, 2.9, 4.3, and 3.9 mm, respectively. In all 155 OA ankles, CT area and CT-FCS were negatively correlated with the VA (correlation coefficient r = –0.38, P < .01; and r = 0.38, P < .01, respectively). Both CT area and CT-FCS were significantly smaller in stages 3a and 3b than in the control group ( P < .01).

Conclusion:

There may be a relationship between the narrowing of the syndesmosis and the varus deformity in patients with varus ankle OA, especially in stages 3a and 3b.

Clinical Relevance:

Clinicians should be aware of the impact of varus ankle arthritis on the distal tibial fibular syndesmosis when operatively treating varus ankle OA. For some patients, the isolated treatment for the tibiotalar joint may be insufficient, and treatment for the syndesmosis as well as tibiotalar joint may be needed.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case control study.
Role of Maternal Uterine Artery Doppler Versus Serum β-hCG During the First Trimester in the Prediction of Preeclampsia and IUGR
Authors: Mohammed Omar , Magdy Ahmed , Askalany Ahmed , Salem Sondos , Abdel-Rasheed Mazen , Ghobary Hany , Elsayed Sameh
Published: October 2021

Objective:

Preeclampsia accounts for 15% of maternal deaths and may cause fetal morbidity and mortality. The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of maternal uterine artery Doppler versus serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), during the first trimester, in predicting preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Materials and Methods:

In a convenient sample of 388 pregnant women, uterine artery resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) were assessed, and serum β-hCG level was measured at 11 to 13 weeks of gestation. The patients’ maternal blood pressure and fetal growth were monitored.

Results:

The patients with preeclampsia (n = 58) showed a significant uterine RI and PI increase with a significant β-hCG decrease compared with the normotensive patients (n = 330). The specificity of uterine PI and RI to predict preeclampsia and IUGR is higher than that of β-hCG. However, the sensitivity of combined diagnostic tools is higher than the singular use of these diagnostic tests.

Conclusion:

Uterine artery Doppler may be better than serum β-hCG in predicting preeclampsia and IUGR. However, combined diagnostic techniques may be better to screen at-risk patients.
Evidence for shared genetic risk factors between lymphangioleiomyomatosis and pulmonary function
Authors: Farré Xavier , Espín Roderic , Baiges Alexandra , Blommaert Eline , Kim Wonji , Giannikou Krinio , Herranz Carmen , Román Antonio , Sáez Berta , Casanova Álvaro , Ancochea Julio , Valenzuela Claudia , Ussetti Piedad , Laporta Rosalía , Rodríguez-Portal José A. , van Moorsel Coline H.M. , van der Vis Joanne J. , Quanjel Marian J.R. , Tena-Garitaonaindia Mireia , Sánchez de Medina Fermín , Mateo Francesca , Molina-Molina María , Won Sungho , Kwiatkowski David J. , de Cid Rafael , Pujana Miquel Angel
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare low-grade metastasising disease characterised by cystic lung destruction. The genetic basis of LAM remains incompletely determined, and the disease cell-of-origin is uncertain. We analysed the possibility of a shared genetic basis between LAM and cancer, and LAM and pulmonary function.

Methods

The results of genome-wide association studies of LAM, 17 cancer types and spirometry measures (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio and peak expiratory flow (PEF)) were analysed for genetic correlations, shared genetic variants and causality. Genomic and transcriptomic data were examined, and immunodetection assays were performed to evaluate pleiotropic genes.

Results

There were no significant overall genetic correlations between LAM and cancer, but LAM correlated negatively with FVC and PEF, and a trend in the same direction was observed for FEV1. 22 shared genetic variants were uncovered between LAM and pulmonary function, while seven shared variants were identified between LAM and cancer. The LAM-pulmonary function shared genetics identified four pleiotropic genes previously recognised in LAM single-cell transcriptomes:ADAM12,BNC2,NR2F2andSP5. We had previously associatedNR2F2variants with LAM, and we identified its functional partner NR3C1 as another pleotropic factor. NR3C1 expression was confirmed in LAM lung lesions. Another candidate pleiotropic factor, CNTN2, was found more abundant in plasma of LAM patients than that of healthy women.

Conclusions

This study suggests the existence of a common genetic aetiology between LAM and pulmonary function.
Relationship between maternal employment status and children’s food intake in Japan
Authors: Mori Sachie , Asakura Keiko , Sasaki Satoshi , Nishiwaki Yuji
Published: October 2021

Background

Although long maternal working hours are reported to have a negative effect on children’s dietary habits, few studies have investigated this issue in Japan. Healthy dietary habits in childhood are important because they may reduce the risk of future disease. Here, we examined the relationship between maternal employment status and children’s dietary intake in 1693 pairs of Japanese primary school 5th and 6th graders and their mothers.

Methods

The survey was conducted using two questionnaires, a brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire and a lifestyle questionnaire. The analysis also considered mothers’ and children’s nutrition knowledge, attitudes toward diet, and some aspects of family environment.

Results

Longer maternal working hours were associated with children’s higher intake of white rice (g/1000kcal) (β 11.4, 95%CI [1.0, 21.9]; working ≥8h vs. not working), lower intake of confectioneries (g/1000kcal) (β −4.0 [−7.6, −0.4]), and higher body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2) (β 0.62 [0.2, 1.0]). Although maternal employment status was not significantly associated with lower intake of healthy food (e.g., vegetables) or higher intake of unhealthy food (e.g., sweetened beverages) in the children, in contrast with previous studies, it may have affected children’s energy intake through their higher intake of white rice. Further, children’s nutrition knowledge and attitudes toward diet, mothers’ food intake, and some family environment factors were significantly associated with intakes of vegetables and sweetened beverages in the children.

Conclusions

Longer maternal working hours were significantly associated with higher intake of white rice and lower intake of confectioneries, as well as higher BMI among children. Even when a mother works, however, it may be possible to improve her child’s dietary intake by other means such as nutrition education for children or enhancement of food environment.
Heat sink effect of underwater polypectomy in a porcine colon model
Authors: Tseng Chih-Wei , Hsieh Yu-Hsi , Lin Chung-Chih , Koo Malcolm , Leung Felix W.
Published: October 2021

Background

Underwater polypectomy without the need for submucosal injection has been reported. A heat-sink effect by immersing the polyp in water was proposed but no such experiment has been performed to support the claim. We compared the temperature rise on the serosal side during polypectomy between air- and water-filled colon.

Method

Freshly harvested porcine colons were placed in a metal tray with cautery electrode pad attached to its bottom. An upper endoscope was used with a cap and a rubber band mounted to the distal end. A mucosal site was randomly selected and identified on its serosal surface with a marker while suction was applied. Suction was applied again and a ligation band was applied to create a polyp. A cautery snare grasped the artificial polyp just below the band. An assistant placed the tip of a thermometer at the marked site on the serosal surface to record the baseline temperature before cautery and the highest temperature during polypectomy. Seven polypectomies in air and underwater were performed.

Results

Mean (standard deviation) baseline temperature were 23.3 (0.6) °C and 23.4 (0.6) °C in the air and water groups, respectively. The maximum rise in temperature during polypectomy was 6.1 (4.5) °C and 1.4 (1.0) °C in the air and water groups, respectively (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

The maximum temperature rise during polypectomy was significantly less when polypectomy was performed underwater, supporting the hypothesis that a heat-sink effect does exist during underwater polypectomy.
Stress, anxiety, and depression in infertile couples are not associated with a first IVF or ICSI treatment outcome
Authors: Peng Meijuan , Wen Mingyang , Jiang Tao , Jiang Yangqian , Lv Hong , Chen Ting , Ling Xiufeng , Li Hong , Meng Qingxia , Huang Boxian , Tao Shiyao , Huang Lei , Liu Cong , Xu Xin , Lu Qun , Liu Xiaoyu , Xu Bo , Han Xiumei , Zhou Kun , Chen Jiaping , Lin Yuan , Ma Hongxia , Xia Yankai , Shen Hongbing , Hu Zhibin , Chen Feng , Du Jiangbo , Jin Guangfu
Published: October 2021

Background

Psychological distress may exert a negative influence on reproductive function of couples at reproductive age. Couples seeking assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment may have a higher prevalence of psychological distress than fertile couples. However, whether psychological distress is associated with the outcome of ART treatment remains unknown. We aimed to investigate the association of pre-treatment psychological distress and clinical pregnancy rate among infertility couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment.

Methods

This nested case-control study was conducted based on women who underwent their first fresh IVF or ICSI cycle in the Jiangsu Birth Cohort Study (JBC) between November 2015 and January 2019. A total of 150 women who did not obtain clinical pregnancy after first IVF or ICSI fresh embryo transfer were identified as cases, and a total of 300 age matched women who obtained clinical pregnancy were identified as controls. Conditional logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the association between psychological distress and the outcome of first IVF or ICSI treatment, adjusting for multiple potential confounders.

Results

No statistically significant association was observed between score of maternal symptoms of psychological distress and clinical pregnancy. Adjusted ORs of logistic regression were 1.00 (95% CI 0.97-1.03) for anxiety, 0.98 (95% CI 0.95-1.02) for depression, and 0.98 (95% CI 0.95-1.01) for perceived stress, respectively. When treat depression and anxiety as categorical variables, 62 (13.8%) were classified as clinical depression, 11 (2.4%) were classified as clinical anxiety, among 450 women in the present study. Psychological distress symptoms were also not associated with clinical pregnancy rate. Adjusted ORs of logistic regression were 0.27 (95% CI 0.03-2.33) for anxiety, 0.88 (95% CI 0.46-1.68) for depression, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings firstly indicated that psychological distress experienced prior to IVF/ICSI treatment was not associated with clinical pregnancy.
Effects of the First 1000 Days Program, a systems-change intervention, on obesity risk factors during pregnancy
Authors: Simione Meg , Moreno-Galarraga Laura , Perkins Meghan , Price Sarah N. , Luo Man , Kotelchuck Milton , Blake-Lamb Tiffany L. , Taveras Elsie M.
Published: October 2021

Background

First 1000 Days is a systems-oriented program starting in early pregnancy lasting through the first 24 months of infancy focused on preventing obesity and related risk factors among low income, mother-infant pairs. The program was developed in partnership with stakeholders to create an infrastructure for system-wide change. It includes screening for adverse health behaviors and socio-contextual factors, patient navigation and educational materials to support behavior change and social needs, and individualized health coaching for women at highest risk of obesity and has been shown to reduce excess gestational weight gain for women who were overweight at the start of their pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to examine changes from the first to third trimester for women participating in the First 1000 Days Program.

Methods

We collected information through self-administered questionnaires during the first and third trimester of gestation and from electronic health records relating to obesity risk factors. Measures collected included behavior (i.e., diet, physical activity and screen time) and psychosocial (i.e., anxiety) outcomes, as well as enrollment in Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program. We examined the extent to which participation in the program was associated with changes in behaviors and psychosocial outcomes among women during pregnancy.

Results

Women completed surveys at their initial and third trimester prenatal visits (n = 264). Mean age (SD) was 30.2 (5.51) years and 75% had an annual household income of <$50,000. Mean pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was 27.7 kg/m2 and 64% started pregnancy with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. In multivariable adjusted models, we observed decreases in intake of sugary-drinks (− 0.95 servings/day; 95% CI: − 1.86, − 0.03) and in screen time (− 0.21 h/day; 95% CI: − 0.40, − 0.01), and an increase in physical activity (0.88 days/week; 95% CI: 0.52, 1.23) from the first to third trimester. We also observed a decrease in pregnancy-related anxiety score (− 1.06 units; 95% CI: − 1.32, − 0.79) and higher odds of enrollment in Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.96, 3.41).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that a systems-oriented prenatal intervention may be associated with improvements in behaviors and psychosocial outcomes during pregnancy among low-income mothers.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03191591; Retrospectively registered on June 19, 2017).
“Sharp downward, blunt upward”: district maternal death audits’ challenges to formulate evidence-based recommendations in Indonesia - a qualitative study
Authors: Cahyanti Ratnasari D. , Widyawati Widyawati , Hakimi Mohammad
Published: October 2021

Background

Indonesia, the largest archipelago globally with a decentralized health system, faces a stagnant high maternal mortality ratio (MMR). The disparity factors among regions and inequities in access have deterred the local assessments in preventing similar maternal deaths. This study explored the challenges of district maternal death audit (MDA) committees to provide evidence-based recommendations for local adaptive practices in reducing maternal mortality.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted with four focus-group discussions in Central Java, Indonesia, between July and October 2019. Purposive sampling was used to select 7–8 members of each district audit committee. Data were analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. Triangulation was done by member checking, peer debriefing, and reviewing audit documentation.

Results

The district audit committees had significant challenges to develop appropriate recommendations and action plans, involving: 1) non-informative audit tool provides unreliable data for review; 2) unstandardized clinical indicators and the practice of “sharp downward, blunt upward”; 3) unaccountable hospital support and lack of leadership commitment, and 4) blaming culture, minimal training, and insufficient MDA committee’ skills. The district audit committees tended to associated maternal death in lower and higher-level health facilities (hospitals) with mismanagement and unavoidable cause, respectively. These unfavorable cultures discourage transparency and prevent continuing improvement, leading to failure in addressing maternal death’s local avoidable factors.

Conclusion

A productive MDA is required to provide an evidence-based recommendation. A strong partnership between the key hospital decision-makers and district health officers is needed for quality evidence-based policymaking and adaptive practice to prevent maternal death.
The thickness changes of retina in high myopia patients during the third trimester of pregnancy: a pilot study
Authors: Liu Chenchen , Wei Puying , Li Jun
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To observe and compare the difference in retinal thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) between patients with high myopia (HM) during the third trimester of pregnancy and age-matched HM non-pregnant women.

Methods

A case-control study. A total of 39 eyes from 39 HM women in the third trimester (study group) and 50 eyes of 50 age-matched non-pregnant women with HM (control group) were included. All subjects underwent SD-OCT examination. The built-in software was used to measure the retinal thickness in macular region. The data from two groups were compared using independent-samples t test.

Results

Among the 89 subjects in this study, the mean gestational age of the study group was 35.09 ± 2.44 weeks, and the average age was 32.24 ± 3.75 years. The average age of the control group was 34.04 ± 7.19 years old. Compared with the control group, the average thickness of parafoveal area, and the average thickness of parafoveal superior, inferior, temporal quadrants of the superficial retina and the average thickness of the foveal and parafoveal of the superficial retina were significantly decreased in the study group (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the average thickness of all quadrants of the retina in the parafoveal area except the nasal quadrant were significantly decreased in the study group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In this observational study, the retinal thickness of patients with high myopia during the third trimester of pregnancy was thinner than that of non-pregnant women with age-matched high myopia.
The impacts of coping style and perceived social support on the mental health of undergraduate students during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic in China: a multicenter survey
Authors: Huang Yiman , Su Xiaoyou , Si Mingyu , Xiao Weijun , Wang Hao , Wang Wenjun , Gu Xiaofen , Ma Li , Li Jing , Zhang Shaokai , Ren Zefang , Qiao Youlin
Published: October 2021

Background

An increasing number of undergraduate students in China have been reported to have psychological problems. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a series of preventive and control measures were implemented, which undoubtedly worsened their psychological health. Coping style and social support were probably important factors that affected the psychological well-being of undergraduate students during the pandemic. This study aimed to explore the effects of coping style and perceived social support on the psychological well-being of college students and relevant risk factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed in February and March of 2020 by distributing an online questionnaire among undergraduate students from seven geographical regions across China. The questionnaire included sociodemographic information; the 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21); the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS); and the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). For the analyses, t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), the Kruskal–Wallis test and multiple linear regression were utilized. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Among 3113 college students, the rates of anxiety, depression and stress symptoms were 13.3, 15.4 and 6.8%, respectively. Increased rates of current smoking and drinking (5.5 and 25.2%, respectively) among undergraduates were identified. The results indicated that the PSSS subscales and SCSQ subscales were significantly associated with DASS-21 scores (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that active coping style and family support were protective factors while passive coping style could aggravate psychological problems among participants (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A remarkable number of college students adopted passive coping strategies to cope with negative feelings, such as smoking and drinking, which were detrimental to their mental health. In contrast, active coping strategies helped improve their psychological well-being. Moreover, family support was particularly important for maintaining their mental health and ameliorating mental health challenges in this major health crisis. Consequently, suitable psychointervention, routine screening for risk behaviors, and provision of further social support are needed for undergraduate students in the COVID-19 pandemic or other emergency public health events.
Comparing scientific worldviews between allopathic medical degree and East Asian medicine degree students utilizing the thinking about science survey instrument (TSSI)
Authors: Dudla Saikaew , Herron Patrick D. , Marantz Paul R. , Milan Felise B. , Campbell Corbin , Anderson Belinda J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Integrative medicine has become a new healthcare model due to the growing evidence base for complementary and integrative therapies. However, some question whether complementary and integrative therapies can truly be integrated with biomedicine due to differences in underlying paradigms and theoretical bases. This study aimed to explore differences in scientific worldviews between students studying East Asian medicine and those completing an allopathic medical degree using the validated Thinking about Science Survey Instrument (TSSI).

Methods

122 medical students from Albert Einstein College of Medicine (Einstein) and 48 East Asian medicine students from the Pacific College of Health and Science (Pacific College) participated in this study. Participants completed the TSSI, a 60-item Likert-scale instrument that quantitatively measures the sociocultural resistance to, and support for science. Item and category means were compared between each group using an independent sample t-test.

Results

Distinct differences were seen between the two groups of students with regard to age, gender distribution and prior education. Einstein students were generally supportive of science and Pacific College students were generally supportive of/positively neutral to science. Einstein students more strongly affirmed the relationship of science in relation to the categories of Epistemology, Public Health, Emotion and Aesthetics, the Economy, and Public Policy. Pacific College students more strongly affirmed the relationship between science and the category Race and Gender. There were no differences in the categories of Environment and Resource, Science for All, and Religion and Morality.

Conclusion

This study suggests that there are differences underlying the scientific worldviews of Einstein and Pacific College students, particularly with regard to Epistemology and Public Health. Such differences may be related to the different theoretical knowledge bases and ways of viewing health within the two disciplines. Despite demographic and educational differences between the two groups their overall scientific worldviews were similar with neither group expressing disparate views. This suggests that both groups may be receptive to the value of other paradigms. Providing courses that focus on different therapeutic approaches and paradigms during medical training may foster interprofessional understanding and collaborative practice between health professionals of different medical disciplines.
Chronic exposure to perfluorohexane sulfonate leads to a reproduction deficit by suppressing hypothalamic kisspeptin expression in mice
Authors: Yin Xiaorui , Di Tingting , Cao Xinyuan , Liu Zhengnan , Xie Jingyan , Zhang Suyun
Published: October 2021

Background

Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) is a six-carbon perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acid found as an environmental contaminant. This study aims to investigate the effects of PFHxS exposure on female reproduction and the underlying mechanism in mice.

Methods

Eight-week-old ICR mice were divided randomly into four groups administered corn oil (vehicle) and PFHxS at doses of 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/kg/day for 42 days by intragastric administration. Body weight, ovarian weight, estrous cycle, follicle counts, and serum sex hormone levels were evaluated. The expression of kisspeptin and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus was also detected.

Results

Compared to vehicle exposure, 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS treatment prolonged the estrous cycle, especially the duration of diestrus, after 42 days of treatment. The numbers of secondary follicles, antral follicles and corpus lutea were significantly reduced in the PFHxS-treated mice. Moreover, compared with the control mice, the PFHxS-treated mice showed decreases in the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estrogen (E2), and reduced GnRH mRNA levels, along with the lack of an LH surge. Furthermore, the PFHxS-treated mice had lower levels of kisspeptin immunoreactivity and kiss-1 mRNA in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) than the control mice. After intraventricular administration of kisspeptin-10, the numbers of secondary follicles, antral follicles and corpus lutea recovered, along with the levels of GnRH mRNA, FSH, and LH in the mice treated with 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS.

Conclusion

These results indicate that chronic exposure of mice to 5 mg/kg/day PFHxS affects reproductive functions by inhibiting kisspeptin expression in the ARC and AVPV regions, leading to deficits in follicular development and ovulation.
Can harmful lifestyle, obesity and weight changes increase the risk of breast cancer in BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 mutation carriers? A Mini review
Authors: Daniele A. , Divella R. , Pilato B. , Tommasi S. , Pasanisi P. , Patruno M. , Digennaro M. , Minoia C. , Dellino M. , Pisconti S. , Casamassima P. , Savino E. , Paradiso A. V.
Published: October 2021

Background and aim

The BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes are associated with an inherited susceptibility to breast cancer with a cumulative risk of 60% in BRCA 1 mutation carriers and of 30% in BRCA 2 mutation carriers. Several lifestyle factors could play a role in determining an individual’s risk of breast cancer. Obesity, changes in body size or unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity have been evaluated as possible determinants of breast cancer risk. The aim of this study was to explore the current understanding of the role of harmful lifestyle and obesity or weight change in the development of breast cancer in female carriers of BRCA 1/2 mutations.

Methods

Articles were identified from MEDLINE in October 2020 utilizing related keywords; they were then read and notes, study participants, measures, data analysis and results were used to write this review.

Results

Studies with very large case series have been carried out but only few of them have shown consistent results. Additional research would be beneficial to better determine the actual role and impact of such factors.
Motor improvements enabled by spinal cord stimulation combined with physical training after spinal cord injury: review of experimental evidence in animals and humans
Authors: Seáñez Ismael , Capogrosso Marco
Published: October 2021

Electrical spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been gaining momentum as a potential therapy for motor paralysis in consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI). Specifically, recent studies combining SCS with activity-based training have reported unprecedented improvements in motor function in people with chronic SCI that persist even without stimulation. In this work, we first provide an overview of the critical scientific advancements that have led to the current uses of SCS in neurorehabilitation: e.g. the understanding that SCS activates dormant spinal circuits below the lesion by recruiting large-to-medium diameter sensory afferents within the posterior roots. We discuss how this led to the standardization of implant position which resulted in consistent observations by independent clinical studies that SCS in combination with physical training promotes improvements in motor performance and neurorecovery. While all reported participants were able to move previously paralyzed limbs from day 1, recovery of more complex motor functions was gradual, and the timeframe for first observations was proportional to the task complexity. Interestingly, individuals with SCI classified as AIS B and C regained motor function in paralyzed joints even without stimulation, but not individuals with motor and sensory complete SCI (AIS A). Experiments in animal models of SCI investigating the potential mechanisms underpinning this neurorecovery suggest a synaptic reorganization of cortico-reticulo-spinal circuits that correlate with improvements in voluntary motor control. Future experiments in humans and animal models of paralysis will be critical to understand the potential and limits for functional improvements in people with different types, levels, timeframes, and severities of SCI.
Antagonistic potential of some phosphate solubilizing fungi against some phyto-pathogenic fungi
Authors: Nasr Siada H. , Mousa A. S. M. , Yasser M. M. , Marzouk M. A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Little phosphorus availability in soil is one of the major forces for crop production. Phosphate solubilizing fungi enhance available phosphorus from soils and contribute to achieve the plants phosphorus requirement. Phosphate solubilizing fungi are important component of soil microbiota and play an essential role in the biogeochemical cycling of phosphorus in natural ecosystems.

Results

The study tested the potential of the isolated phosphate solubilizing fungi to inhibit the growth of Alternaria alternata, Fusarium solani, Geotrichum candidum, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii. A total of 137 fungal isolates were isolated and identified from 30 soil samples. Nine isolates solubilized inorganic phosphate (tricalcium phosphate). Eight of these isolates were isolated from the rhizosphere of Alhagi graecorum Boiss., Allium cepa L., Ehrharta calycina Sm., Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. & Perr.) Raven, Mentha longifolia L., Phragmites communis Trin.,Triticum aestivum L. and Zea mays L., respectively and one isolate was isolated from island's free soil. Purified single spore cultures of these nine isolates were identified to species level by multi loci DNA barcoding using internal transcribed spacer1and 2 (ITS1 and ITS 2) of the rRNA gene cluster, Calmodulin (CaM) and β-tubulin)BenA) gene markers.

Conclusions

The isolated phosphate solubilizing fungi belonged to two genera, Aspergillus and Penicillium. The phosphate solubilization index ranged from 1 to 1.5. Aspergillius japonicus 2 had the highest solubilization index (1.5) and also had the highest inhibition percentage (70%) against Alternaria alternata. This isolate is promising for development of biocontrol agent of Fusarium solani, Geotricum candidium and Alternaria alternata. The highest phosphate solubilization by Aspergillius japonicus 2 was obtained by using sucrose as carbon source and also ammonium chloride and tryptophan as nitrogen source. The highest solubilization percentage was 78.2% at optimum glucose concentration (5%) while the pH value that gave the highest solubilization percentage (90%) was 3. After eight days of incubation of Aspergillius japonicus 2, the solubilization percentage reached its maximum value (80.2%).
Charles Bernstein: Against the Idea of Poetry
Authors: Lehto Leevi
Published: October 2021

This text is Leevi Lehto's introduction to his Finnish translation of Charles Bernstein's work, both poetry and poetics. Lehto argues that Bernstein's poems are interventions into various constellations, or power relations, in the field of poetry, always reacting to something, always against a particular idealization—among them the idea of interventionism as such.
Pataquericalism: Quantum Coherence between the East and West
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Runa
Published: October 2021

Charles Bernstein's pataquericalism is not just a poetics but a philosophy of life, a leftist way to wrench freedom from authority to recognize the actual face of reality that toggles us with hope and despair, to explore hitherto undreamed regions of the mind in order to acquire a new point of view—to inquire into language, into poetics, into life, into reality. This poetics indeed resonates with Barin Ghosal's Expansive Consciousness theory in the world of Bengali New Poetry. Both are inventive poetics of an eccentric centrifugal journey toward infinite possibilities with intuitive leaps to open up an infinite space. This is to interenact with the endless rhythm of the cosmic dance of energy of the universe to harmonize our relationship with Eastern mystic philosophy of Upanishad/Zen Buddhism as well as modern science. This essay is intended to find the quantum coherence between the voices/processes/thoughts of different poets, scientists, and philosophers of the East and West.
Extensor carpi ulnaris muscle shows unexpected slow-to-fast fiber-type switch in Duchenne muscular dystrophy dogs
Authors: Hakim Chady H. , Yang Hsiao T. , Burke Matthew J. , Teixeira James , Jenkins Gregory J. , Yang N. Nora , Yao Gang , Duan Dongsheng
Published: October 2021

Aged dystrophin-null canines are excellent models for studying experimental therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a lethal muscle disease caused by dystrophin deficiency. To establish the baseline, we studied the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) muscle in 15 terminal age (3-year-old) male affected dogs and 15 age/sex-matched normal dogs. Affected dogs showed histological and anatomical hallmarks of dystrophy, including muscle inflammation and fibrosis, myofiber size variation and centralized myonuclei, as well as a significant reduction of muscle weight, muscle-to-body weight ratio and muscle cross-sectional area. To rigorously characterize the contractile properties of the ECU muscle, we developed a novel in situ assay. Twitch and tetanic force, contraction and relaxation rate, and resistance to eccentric contraction-induced force loss were significantly decreased in affected dogs. Intriguingly, the time-to-peak tension and half-relaxation time were significantly shortened in affected dogs. Contractile kinetics predicted an unforeseen slow-to-fast myofiber-type switch, which we confirmed at the protein and transcript level. Our study establishes a foundation for studying long-term and late-stage therapeutic interventions in dystrophic canines. The unexpected myofiber-type switch highlights the complexity of muscle remodeling in dystrophic large mammals.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Hot to touch: the story of the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
Authors: Logan Darren W.
Published: October 2021

The 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Ardem Patapoutian and David Julius for their research on receptor channels responsible for the perception of touch and temperature. Somatosensation, an overarching sense that enables us to safely interface with the physical forces around and within us, is the fourth sensory modality to be recognized by the Nobel Committee. The story of the discovery of TRP and PIEZO channels, and subsequent investigations into their myriad roles in the perception of noxious and mild temperature, touch, pain, pressure and body position, is an archetype for how translational research into human and animal health is built on a foundation of excellence in basic science.
Low kindlin-3 levels in osteoclasts of kindlin-3 hypomorphic mice result in osteopetrosis due to leaky sealing zones
Authors: Klapproth Sarah , Richter Karsten , Türk Clara , Bock Theresa , Bromberger Thomas , Dominik Julian , Huck Kathrin , Pfaller Kristian , Hess Michael W. , Reichel Christoph A. , Krüger Marcus , Nakchbandi Inaam A. , Moser Markus
Published: October 2021

Osteoclasts form special integrin-mediated adhesion structures called sealing zones that enable them to adhere to and resorb bone. Sealing zones consist of densely packed podosomes tightly interconnected by actin fibers. Their formation requires the presence of the hematopoietic integrin regulator kindlin-3 (also known as Fermt3). In this study, we investigated osteoclasts and their adhesion structures in kindlin-3 hypomorphic mice expressing only 5–10% of the kindlin-3 level of wild-type mice. Low kindlin-3 expression reduces integrin activity, results in impaired osteoclast adhesion and signaling, and delays cell spreading. Despite these defects, in vitro-generated kindlin-3-hypomorphic osteoclast-like cells arrange their podosomes into adhesion patches and belts, but their podosome and actin organization is abnormal. Remarkably, kindlin-3-hypomorphic osteoclasts form sealing zones when cultured on calcified matrix in vitro and on bone surface in vivo. However, functional assays, immunohistochemical staining and electron micrographs of bone sections showed that they fail to seal the resorption lacunae properly, which is required for secreted proteinases to digest bone matrix. This results in mild osteopetrosis. Our study reveals a new, hitherto understudied function of kindlin-3 as an essential organizer of integrin-mediated adhesion structures, such as sealing zones.
Improving the Cost Control System of Organizations Based on the Concept of Sustainable Development
Authors: Kazakova Nataliya , Permitina Lyudmila
Published: October 2021

The article proposes the author’s two-level methodology of on-farm control based on the concept of sustainable development, which has practical significance and allows solving the problem of control, optimization of costs and production costs both at the pre-production stage and in the production process with an emphasis on control procedures for three types of costs: economic, environmental and social.
De novo inflammatory bowel disease is a potential post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Thongtan Thanita , Deb Anasua , Islam Sameer
Published: October 2021

Background: Even though patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not at increased risk of COVID-19 infection, patients with post-acute COVID-19 have been reported to have de novo IBD or a new diagnosis of IBD.
Objective: This article reviews the presentation, diagnosis, and clinical course of patients described in the literature to have new-onset IBD after the diagnosis of COVID-19 infection as well as discusses the possible pathophysiological mechanism.
Methodology: Extensive literature review by compiling information from case reports and original studies identified by a Pubmed and EMBASE search from inception to May 2021.
Results: We identified 4 cases of de novo IBD that were reported in the literature, 2 weeks – 5 months after acute COVID-19 infection. Patients presented with persistent bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and anemia. Three patients were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and one patient was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Available evidence indicates that COVID-19 infection can instigate an intestinal inflammation and trigger de novo IBD, potentially through intestinal barrier leakage, alterations in gene expression, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and exaggerated immune response.
Conclusion: The presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the gut can cause de novo IBD through complex multiple factors. Further studies need to be done to confirm a causal link and the underlying mechanism. Clinicians should be vigilant about the possibility of IBD in patients present with anemia, abdominal pain, or chronic bloody diarrhea after a short interval of COVID-19 infection that warrant a referral to a gastroenterologist.