The experiences of menstrual symptom changes among international students studying in China during the acculturation period: A phenomenology study

Objectives Menstruation is a normal physiological phenomenon among female which could be influenced by the process of acculturation.Few studies have explored the experience of menstrual symptom changes among international female students studying in China.Therefore,this paper aims to summarize international female students’experiences of menstrual symptom changes when they were studying in China and interpret these changes through considering the influence of acculturation on their social and academic lives.Methods We used a descriptive phenomenology approach.Structured in-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted between May and November 2019 among ten international female students studying in one Province located in south central China.Participants were those who reported having experienced menstrual symptom changes during the acculturation period,which was defined as the first six months of living in China.All interviews were audio-recorded,transcribed verbatim,and analyzed using NVivo 11.0 with the guidance of Colaizzi's seven-step method.Results The international female students’experiences of menstrual symptom changes were summarized and grouped into five main categories and 13 subcategories.The main categories include:1)demonstration of menstrual symptom changes,2)challenges of maintaining menstrual function in the new setting,3)coping styles to take care of menstrual health,4)consequences of the menstrual symptom changes,and 5)culture-based attitude toward menstruation.Conclusions International female students reported experiences of menstrual symptom changes,including somatic and psychological symptoms during the acculturation period.Culture barriers,academic stress,and sleep patterns are common factors influencing their menstrual symptom changes.More culturally-tailored interventions should be explored to improve the menstrual health of international female students in China.

Comparative study in vivo of the osseointegration of 3D-printed and plasma-coated titanium implants

BACKGROUND Total hip arthroplasty is a common surgical treatment for elderly patients with osteoporosis,particularly in postmenopausal women.In such cases,highly porous acetabular components are a favorable option in achieving osseointegration.However,further discussion is needed if use of such acetabular components is justified under the condition of normal bone mass.AIM To determine the features of osseointegration of two different types of titanium implants[3-dimensional(3D)-printed and plasma-coated titanium implants]in bone tissue of a distal metaphysis in a rat femur model.METHODS This study was performed on 20 white male laboratory rats weighing 300-350 g aged 6 mo.Rats were divided into two groups of 10 animals,which had two different types of implants were inserted into a hole defect(2×3 mm)in the distal metaphysis of the femur:GroupⅠ:3D-printed titanium implant(highly porous);GroupⅡ:Plasma-coated titanium implant.After 45 and 90 d following surgery,the rats were sacrificed,and their implanted femurs were extracted for histological examination.The relative perimeter(%)of bone trabeculae[bone-implant contact(BIC%)]and bone marrow surrounding the titanium implants was measured.RESULTS Trabecular bone tissue was formed on the 45th day after implantation around the implants regardless of their type.45 d after surgery,group I(3D-printed titanium implant)and groupⅡ(plasma-coated titanium implant)did not differ in BIC%(83.51±8.5 vs 84.12±1.73;P=0.838).After 90 d,the BIC%was higher in group I(87.04±6.99 vs 81.24±7.62;P=0.049),compared to groupⅡ.The relative perimeter of the bone marrow after 45 d did not differ between groups and was 16.49%±8.58%for groupⅠ,and 15.88%±1.73%for groupⅡ.Futhermore,after 90 d,in groupⅠthe relative perimeter of bone marrow was 1.4 times smaller(12.96±6.99 vs 18.76±7.62;P=0.049)compared to the relative perimeter of bone marrow in groupⅡ.CONCLUSION The use of a highly porous titanium implant,manufactured with 3D printing,for acetabular components provides increased osseointegration compared to a plasma-coated titanium implant.

Tao and Golden Ratio: A Scientific View of Contemporary Acupunctural Principles through Geometry

It is universally accepted that the philosophy of the Tao is the essence that animates the Chinese Cosmogony. Therefore, in last decades I have tried to consolidate its scientific background, looking for solid explanations through Exact Sciences (“Between Heaven and Earth” Scientific Basis of the Action of Shao Yin: Lightning’s Physical-Mathematical Analysis”;“Is Traditional Chinese Medicine Definitely an Exact Science?”;“Euclidean Geometry and Traditional Chinese Medicine: Diving into the Real Origin of the Five Elements”;“Solitons: A Cutting-Edge Scientific Proposal Explaining the Mechanisms of Acupuntural Action”) Currently, research on Chinese medicine leads us—with Dr. Erica Arakaki, collaborator and assistant—to verify through a profound bibliographic review the application of Fibonacci’s Golden Ratio in the constitution of T’ai Ji Tu, adding yet more substance to the hypothesis of Acupuncture and demonstrating how said Chinese Ancient Science is not only an empirical knowledge but a wisdom derived from the most ancient exact science: Geometry.

Review on current concepts of myopia and its control strategies

Myopia poses a significant burden on the healthcare system,economy and quality of life.It is an emerging global public health challenge and requires interventions to delay or stop onset and progression.With changing times and evidence,the concepts of myopia are changing along with the treatment and control strategies.Behavioural modifications including increased outdoors time and reduced near work,optical and pharmaceutical management options are reviewed.This paper presents a current overview on the concepts of myopia,and is expected to summarize updates on myopia control methods.

Ontogenetic Approach to the Study of Mechanisms of Copper-Induced Liver Fibrosis

On the model of Cu-induced liver fibrosis, the relationship between the activity of prooxidant-antioxidant system, immune system parameters, liver morphology and several physiological parameters (body temperature and performance ability of the animals, taking into account their ages) was investigated. Classical biochemical, immunological, histological and physiological methods of investigation were used. The subjects of the study were male Wistar rats of 3-month (young) and 20-month (old) age. For the induction of liver fibrosis, experimental animals were successively injected with copper sulfate (three times at intervals of 24 hours at a dose corresponding to 33% of the lethal one). It was shown that after five days of sulfate copper administration inflammatory reactions in the liver, damage of the vessel epithelium, an increase in collagen content, and other morphological changes were detected. At this time, the content of lipid hydroperoxides in the liver and blood serum was increased, the activity of a number of antioxidant enzymes was reduced, and the activity of aconitase was two times less compared to values in the control group. These changes correlated with a decrease in the amount and activity of phagocytic cells in the blood of experimental animals. Inhibition of the general metabolism was accompanied by a decrease in body temperature, loss of body weight and performance ability. The relationship between a specific metabolic pattern in animals with Cu-induced fibrosis was age-dependent. The formed specific adaptive metabolic pattern is unstable, and in the future it can be realized in one of three possible adaptive strategies, the choice of which is influenced by age.

Reproducibility of diaphragm thickness measurements by ultrasonography in patients on mechanical ventilation

AIM To prospectively evaluate the reproducibility of diaphragm thickness measurement by ultrasonography at the bedside by critical care physicians in patients on invasive mechanical ventilation.METHODS In a prospective observational study of 64 invasively ventilated patients, diaphragmatic thickness measurement was taken by 2 different observers at the same site. Three measurements were taken by each observer and averaged. The intraobserver and interobserver variability was assessed by estimation of intraclass correlation coefficient. The limits of agreement were plotted as the difference between two observations against the average of the two observations in Bland and Altman analysis.RESULTS The mean diaphragm thickness at the functional residual capacity was 2.29 ± 0.4 mm and the lower limit of the normal, i.e., the 5 th percentile was 1.7 mm(95%CI: 1.6-1.8). The intraclass correlation coefficient for intraobserver variability was 0.986(95%CI: 0.979-0.991)with a P value of < 0.001. The intraclass correlation coefficient for interobserver variability was 0.987(95%CI: 0.949-0.997) with a P value of < 0.001. In Bland and Altman analysis, both intraobserver and interobserver measurements showed high limits of agreement. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that the measurement of diaphragm thickness by ultrasound can be accurately performed by critical care physicians with high degree of reproducibility in patients on mechanical ventilation.

Protective Effect of Ubiquinone and Precursors of ItsSynthesis on Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain andActivity of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Animal Tissuesunder Effect of Doxorubicin

Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and their regulation are important fields of study in modem clinical research.Exogenous CoQ is an efficient therapeutic agent, yet its application has leads to continued suppression of endogenous CoQ synthesis,which limits CoQ applicability. Our aim was to study the state of mitochondrial electron transport chain components, CoQ contentand redox state, superoxide anion radicals and NO production rates, and active MMP-2 and MMP-9 content in rat liver and heartunder treatment with Doxorubicin, CoQ10, and complex preparation of modulators and precursors of CoQ biosynthesis （EPMcomplex）. The results demonstrate that treatment with EPM complex and CoQ10 in addition to Doxorubicin administration exertsprotective effect on liver and heart mitochondria, evidenced by restoration of electron transport in respiratory chain, which isexpressed as decreased nitrile complexes formation with Fe-S-proteins and increased ubisemiquinone content. The protective effectsof EPM complex on mitochondrial electron transport chain under Doxorubicin administration is on par with those of CoQ10, anddecreased MMP2 and MMP9 activities signify lessened extracellular matrix destruction. These results demonstrate the viability ofapproaches to correct adverse effects of Doxorubicin by treatment with CoQ10 and e complex of precursors and modulators of itsbiosynthesis.

Blood coagulation factors and platelet response to drug-induced hepatitis and hepatosis in rats

Background:Knowing the variability of blood coagulation responses to liver damage of different origins can provide a key to curing liver tissues or to mitigating treatment side effects.The aim of the present work was to compare the changes in the main components of hemostasis under experimental drug-induced hepatosis and hepatitis in rats.Methods:We modeled diclofenac-induced hepatitis and tetracycline-induced hepa-tosis.Hemostasis response was gauged by measuring fibrinogen,factor X,protein C(PC),and prothrombin in plasma.The decarboxylated form of prothrombin was de-tected by measuring prothrombin index and ecamulin index.Platelet reactivity was studied using aggregometry.Results:Both hepatitis and hepatosis decreased the synthesis of fibrinogen,factor X,and prothrombin.However,protein carboxylation was not disrupted in hepatosis but was much impaired in hepatitis.PC decreased in both models as a consequence of its consumption possibly during inflammatory response.Platelet aggregation rate was lower in hepatosis but higher in hepatitis.Conclusions:Our findings imply the need for a thorough monitoring of the hemostasis system in liver diseases to avoid possible thrombotic complications.Its state indicates the disorder's rate and character.

Subclinical hepatitis E virus genotype 1 infection:The concept of“dynamic human reservoir”

Hepatitis E virus(HEV)is hyperendemic in South Asia and Africa accounting for half of total Global HEV burden.There are eight genotypes of HEV.Among them,the four common ones known to infect humans,genotypes 1 and 2 are prevalent in the developing world and genotypes 3 and 4 are causing challenge in the industrialized world.Asymptomatic HEV viremia in the general population,especially among blood donors,has been reported in the literature worldwide.The clinical implications related to this asymptomatic viremia are unclear and need further exploration.Detection of viremia due to HEV genotype 1 infection,apparently among healthy blood donors is also reported without much knowledge about its infection rate.Similarly,while HEV genotype 3 is known to be transmitted via blood transfusion in humans and has been subjected to screening in many European nations,instances of transmission have also been documented albeit without significant clinical consequences.Epidemiology of HEV genotype 1 in endemic areas often show waxing and waning pattern.Occasional sporadic occurrence of HEV infection interrupted by outbreaks have been frequently seen.In absence of known animal reservoir,where HEV exists in between outbreak is a mystery that needs further exploration.However,occurrence of asymptomatic HEV viremia due to HEV genotype 1 during epidemiologically quiescent period may explain that this phenomenon may act as a dynamic reservoir.Since HEV genotype 1 infection cannot cause chronicity,subclinical transient infection and transmission of virus might be the reason it sustains in interepidemic period.This might be the similar phenomenon with SARS COVID-19 corona virus infection which is circulating worldwide in distinct phases with peaks and plateaus despite vaccination against it.In view of existing evidence,we propose the concept of“Dynamic Human Reservoir.”Quiescent subclinical infection of HEV without any clinical consequences and subsequent transmission may contribute to the existence of the virus in a community.The potential for transmitting HEV infection by asymptomatic HEV infected individuals by fecal shedding of virus has not been reported in literature.This missing link may be a key to Pandora's box in understanding epidemiology of HEV infection in genotype 1 predominant region.

A Single Bundle Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACL-R) Using Hamstring Tendon Autograft and Tibialis Anterior Tendon Allograft:A Comparative Study

The main purpose of this study patients undergoing a single bundle anterior was to compare the clinical outcomes of cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R) of using quadrupled hamstring (4HT)autografts and two-strand tibialis anterior (2TA) aUografts,and to find out the rate of graft failure and possible causes.We hypothesized that there would be no difference in the clinical outcome,and graft failure would be associated with the use of small sized allograft in young active males with high demand of sports activities.We retrospectively evaluated 222 patients (male,n=167,female,n=55) undergoing ACL-R between January 2010 and July 2014.Of 222 patients,115 were included in the 4HT autograft group and 107 patients in the 2TA allograft group.Inclusion criteria were primary unilateral ACL-R with a minor MCL (<grade Ⅱ)injury with or without meniscus tear and had at least 2.5 years of follow-up.Subjective evaluation was performed using Tegner-Lysholm score,modified Cincinnati knee score,and IKDC knee form.Anteroposterior laxity was assessed using ADT and Lachman test whereas rotational laxity was assessed using pivot shift test.Similarly,functional assessment was performed using range of motion (ROM),Daniel's one-leg hop test,and overall IKDC score.Clinical outcomes were satisfactory and comparable in both groups with no statistically significant difference in all the respective parameters.No statistically significant difference was observed in graft re-rupture rate.However,most graft failures occurred in young active males with high demand of sports activities,graft size smaller than 8 mm,and use of allograft.An autograft with at least 8 mm diameter should be considered in a young active male with high demand of sports activities to avoid graft failure.

"Resuscitator": Golden medtech proposal introducing a new era for CPR

The author has performed several rescues in both basic and advanced CPR failure. Such practice consists in stimulating an acupuncture point called KI-1 Yongquan, where terrestrial Yin energy enters into our bodies to nourish heart and lungs to maintain vital functions. Said stimulus follows the same ascending path of a lightning bolt. This integration between heart and kidneys makes up the deepest energetic level in acupuncture: the Shao Yin. Such level not only proceeds over cardiovascular physiology but also influences the central nervous system. This helps us to better understand the outstanding response when applied in cardiac arrest and stroke (84.51% survival rate in last 30 years). Such benefit in patients with bilateral amputation lead the discovery of a new energetic path called "reconciliation vessel", presented before the Chinese National Academy of Medical Science in 2014 and 2016. The "resuscitator" can be used when physical barriers hamper the precordial massage: crashed or overturned vehicles, building collapses, landslides, and other catastrophes with a large number of victims. This prototype was developed under safety measures to avoid any collateral damage in patients or rescuers. By 2020, the global number of victims of cardiovascular diseases will involve 30 million people. Adding the 7% of brain-vascular victims will reach over 30% of all causes of death. Advanced technology may provide the "resuscitator" with global positioning systems to notify the emergency network to send the closest rescue unit to the victim. The present invention has been developed to assist resuscitation maneuvers in humans as well for veterinary use.

Teenage pregnancy and the sociodemographic attributes as a major contributor: Findings from an urban referral center in Nepal

BACKGROUND Teenage pregnancy is a challenging issue worldwide.Yet,despite the increased health risk and socioeconomic impact of teenage pregnancy,the numbers remain high in Nepal.AIM To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with teenage pregnancy in Nepal.METHODS A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital from April to August 2017.A total of 1359 mothers were assessed and interviewed regarding their reproductive history and sociodemographic attributes.Ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research Council,permission from the concerned hospital,and consent from study subjects were obtained.RESULTS Of the 5526 deliveries,679(12.3%)were teenage pregnancy deliveries.The majority(85.1%)of mothers(out of 1359)were married at<20 years of age,with a mean age of marriage of 17.57 years(±1.994,range:12-25 years).Marriage age was a significant determinant of teenage pregnancy(odds ratio[OR]2.423[2.262-2.596];P<0.001).Likewise,a love marriage(OR:2.018[1.585-2.570];P<0.001)and first teenage pregnancy(OR:3.622[3.265-4.017];P<0.001)were significant determinants for subsequent teen pregnancies.Knowledge of family planning methods(OR:0.474;0.288-0.779;P=0.003)and use of any methods of family planning utilization(OR:0.345;0.248-0.479;P=0.000)significantly lowered the chance of teenage pregnancy.CONCLUSION Teenage pregnancy occupies a substantial proportion of total deliveries in the Nepalese maternity hospital.In addition,early pregnancy was significantly associated with age and type of marriage,education level,knowledge,and practice of contraceptive methods.

Empty nose syndrome pathogenesis and cell-based biotechnology products as a new option for treatment

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a rare complication that develops after partial orcomplete turbinectomy. The main feature of ENS is paradoxical nasal obstructionfeeling despite objectively wide nasal airway. ENS pathogenesis is multifactorialand includes changes in laminar physiological airflow, disruption of mucosafunctions and deficient neural sensation. This leads to the development of ENSsymptomatology such as dyspnea, nasal dryness, nasal burning, nasalobstruction, feeling of suffocation and even comorbid psychiatric disorders thatsignificantly impairs life quality. Specific effective treatment of ENS does not existup to date. In this review we outline existing biomaterial for surgical reconstitutionof nasal anatomy and discuss the perspective of stem cell-based technologiesin ENS management. The main focus is directed to justification ofrationality application of adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from differenttissues origin and neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs) based on their intrinsicbiological properties. MSCs transplantation may stimulate mucosa tissueregeneration via trophic factors secretion, direct transdifferentiation into epithelialcells and pronounced immunosuppressive effect. From the other hand, NCSCsbased on their high neuroprotective properties may reconstitute nerve structureand functioning leading to normal sensation in ENS patients. We postulate thatapplication of cell-based and tissue-engineered products can help to significantlyimprove ENS symptomatology only as complex approach aimed at reconstitutionof nasal anatomy, recovery the nasal mucosa functionality and neural tissuesensation.

Melatoninergic Antidepressant in Post-Stroke Depression Therapy

This paper presents the results of the effects of Melitor (25 mg during two months) on the psychic-emotional state, cerebral hemodynamic and bioelectrical activity of the brain in 30 patients (average age 66.2 ± 3.2 years) with ischemic post-stroke depression. It has been found that this drug possesses a multimodal action which is characterized by the decrease of the level of depression, widening of the range of social-environmental activity, improvement of the cerebral blood circulation and harmonization of the brain electrogenesis. In the patients with right versus left hemisphere stroke, the effect of Melitor on the functional state of the brain was more pronounced. Based on the results obtained in our study, we can recommend Melitor to use it in complex scheme of rehabilitation care of patients of the given nosological category.

Risk Assessment Capacity Building Program in Zaporizhzhia Ukraine: Emissions Inventory Construction, Ambient Modeling, and Hazard Results

Historically, Ukraine has been a major source of industrial production for the former Soviet Union and the source of pollution associated with an aging industrial infrastructure. The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and the Ukrainian Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MENR) entered into partnership to develop Ukrainian expertise and capacity in risk assessment so that Ukraine could more effectively use its National and Regional Environmental Protection Funds and set priorities for cleanup and regulation. Ukrainian scientists, local officials, and EPA consultants conducted a pilot study in the heavily industrialized Zaporizhzhia Oblast so that the process, analytical tools, and approach for a risk assessment could be developed for and tailored to Ukrainian needs. As a first step, site-specific information was obtained from multiple sources of air pollution and an emissions inventory of air pollution developed. Efforts by local officials were critical for emissions inventory construction. After refinements were made to the inventory, Ukrainian scientists then performed exposure modeling using this information so that ambient concentrations of pollutants could be estimated. 11 industry types (i.e., enterprises) were identified as a major emission source. Results of the modeling effort demonstrated that emissions estimates of particulate matter (as measured by particles of less than 10 micron diameter or “PM10”) and a number of carcinogens were consistent with those from other cities with high concentrations of metallurgical industries in former Soviet Union countries, and were above safety standards. Hazard information was gathered from international databases for each of the estimated pollutants. Using such data, prioritization and identification of potential health concerns can be made, but most importantly, the expertise and experience gained from the pilot allowed for continued support of risk assessment capacity building in the Ukraine and support by the World Bank.

Alterations of blood serum parameters in patients with chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis

Objective:To examine metabolic disorders of major components of organic basis of bone tissue in patients with chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis and response to surgical treatment.Methods:The cubital vein puncture was conducted to take blood for analysis in patients with chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis.The activity of collagenase and hyaluronidase,elastin,elastase and total content of glycosaminoglycans were measured in blood serum.Results:The study revealed an enhancement of catabolic phase of metabolism of the main components in bone organic matrix during the relapse of inflammation.It was evidenced by indicators reflecting the synthetic and catabolic phases of the main components of the connective tissue collagen and glycosaminoglycans.The effective therapeutic treatments led to the reduction and normalization of studied compounds.Conclusions:The initial development of hematogenous osteomyelitis happens in a background of metabolic disorders of the main components of organic matrix of bone tissue,and normalizes upon effective therapy.

The effect of two COVID-19 lockdowns on physical activity of school-age children

The introduction of strict quarantine restrictions in many countries initiated a direction in science to study the behavioral characteristics of children and adolescents during the social isolation at the population level.We present our observations during the two lockdowns in Ukraine.The objective of this study was to determine:a)the level of light(LPA)and moderate-to-vigorous(MVPA)physical activity among school-age children,and b)the impact of the external and internal factors on their physical activity during the lockdown.Global Physical Activity Questionnaire(GPAQ)as part of our questionnaire Q-RAPH was used.Parents of 1091 children 6–18 years old(54%boys)filled Q-RAPH at two measurement points in 2020 and 2021.After performing ANCOVA and logistic regression,we found a significant decrease in MVPA by 12.7%in 2021 compared to 2020(p<0.001)while LPA was about 1.5 h a day during both periods.The proportion of children who reach the recommended levels of MVPA also decreased by 13.7%in 2021(p<0.001).Factors negatively affecting the achievement of 60 min a day of MVPA were female gender,chronic diseases,overweight/obesity,non-participation in organized sports,and a decrease in the average air temperature.This study evidences the insufficient level of preventive measures and requires an intensification of health education among the Ukrainian population.When developing preventive measures,special attention should be paid to groups vulnerable to MVPA reduction as children who have chronic diseases and/or overweight/obesity as well as non-participation in sports.

Repeated cupping manipulation temporary decreases natural killer lymphocyte frequency, activity and cytotoxicity

OBJECTIVE: Elevated natural killer lymphocyte cytotoxicity(NKc) has been linked with reproductive problems in women. Here we evaluate the potential benefit of cupping therapy(CT) in reproductionrelated immune responses.METHODS: This was a pilot clinical study. Participants were he althy fe male volunteers(n = 23) with elevated NKc, and received repeated CT 3 times over 5 d(inner pressure 40–50 kPa, 40 min; 12–1 5 cups). Lymphocyte subsets, NKc and NK lymphocyte activity(NKa) were measured in blood on day 0(initial levels, before the first treatment) and days 3, 10 and 17 after the last CT treatment, using the K562-stimulated CD69 expression assay.RESULTS: As a result of CT manipulations NKa was reduced on days 3 and 10, and NK percentage was reduced on day 10. NKc was most sensitive to CT treatment, resulting in their decreased counts at 3, 10 and 17 d post CT. CT treatment decreased NKc in the majority of individuals(87%), but the magnitude of the effect was variable. Out of 23 subjects 9(39.1%) had a 2–3 fold decrease of NKc on days 3, 10 and 17; 11(47.8%) started to show a decrease in NKc later, or more quickly returned to base levels; and only 3(13%) subjects displayed no effect of CT on NKc. Expectedly, no changes in T-cell subsets(CD3CD4, CD3CD8, HLADR, CD158a) were observed after CT.CONCLUSION: CT decreased NK cell numbers, their activity and cytotoxicity. Low cost, safety, noninvasive nature and ease of administration make CT a promising approach for NKc down-regulation.