Temporal evolution of postsurgical bone repair in a rabbit model: A [99mTc]Tc-MDP scintigraphic study

Abstract Bone regeneration is crucial for repairing bone tissue following various injuries. Research techniques that enable the study of metabolic changes in bone tissue under different conditions are important for understanding bone repair and remodeling. This study used bone scintigraphy to evaluate osteogenesis secondary to osteotomy in a preclinical model of New Zealand rabbits. For this purpose, we conducted a longitudinal, prospective, case-control study in which scintigraphic variables were measured in both the right forearm (case-operated) and the left forearm (control - non-operated). The study sample consisted of 10 rabbits subjected to osteotomy, followed by a 12-week postoperative evaluation period, divided into six imaging stages at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. We observed that the operated forearm showed significantly higher external radiation than the control side, using the pinhole collimator, denoting an increase in the biodistribution and tropism of the radiopharmaceutical to the operated forearm. Among the three evaluated time points, osteoblastic activity was highest in the second week and presented a significant decline in the 8th and 12th weeks, denoting regeneration and resolution of the surgical injury; the control forearm was also influenced by the inactivity imposed by the operated forearm. This fact was notably evidenced by the reduction in the metabolic activity of osteoblasts in the left forearm. Our study suggested that bone scintigraphy was sensitive enough to semi-quantitatively differentiate the metabolic activity of osteoblasts in the operated forearm in the three temporal landmarks evaluated in the study.

Effect of Longmu Piyan Prescription on Oxidative Stress in Atopic Dermatitis Mice / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveThis study observes the intervention effect of Longmu Piyan prescription on oxidative stress in BALB/c mice with atopic dermatitis （AD） induced by 2，4-dinitrochlorobenzene （DNCB） and explores its mechanism. MethodThe AD model was established using the method of DNCB sensitization on the back skin of BALB/c mice. Forty male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into a blank group， a model group， a vitamin C control group （0.5×10-3 mg·kg-1）， and a Longmu Piyan prescription group （26 g·kg-1）. Except for the blank group， other groups were sensitized with different concentrations of DNCB on the back to induce AD， and the blank group was treated with matrix coating. The gastric administration was started on the seventh day after sensitization with 2% DNCB and on the 24th day after sensitization with 0.2% DNCB continuously for 21 days. The changes in skin lesions of each group were directly observed after the experiment. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） was used to detect the levels of interleukin （IL）-4， tumor necrosis factor （TNF）-α， immunoglobulin E （IgE）， and reactive oxygen species （ROS） in the serum of each group. The total antioxidant capacity determination kit-trace method (ABTS method) was used to measure the level of total antioxidant capacity （TAOC） in serum. The Hematoxylin eosin （HE） staining method was used to observe the pathological and morphological changes of the skin lesion site. The immunohistochemical method was used to detect the expression of thymic stromal lymphopoietin （TSLP） in the skin lesion site. Western blot was used to detect the expression of filaggrin （FLG） in the dorsal skin lesions. ResultThe results showed that compared with the blank group， the skin lesion score of the model group mice was significantly increased （P<0.01）， and HE staining showed characteristic pathological changes of AD in the skin lesion site. At the same time， the expression of TSLP in the skin lesion was significantly increased， and that of FLG was reduced （P<0.05）. The levels of TNF-α， IL-4， IgE， and ROS in serum increased， while the activity of TAOC decreased （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the Longmu Piyan prescription group showed a significant decrease in skin lesion scores and a significant improvement in skin lesion pathology. At the same time， the expression of TSLP decreased， and the expression of FLG increased in the skin lesions （P<0.05）. In addition， compared with the model group， the serum levels of TNF-α， IL-4， IgE， and ROS also decreased to varying degrees （P<0.05，P<0.01）， and TAOC activity increased in the Longmu Piyan prescription group （P<0.01）. ConclusionThere is a significant correlation among the degree of oxidative stress， the severity of skin lesions in AD， and the levels of inflammatory cytokines. Longmu Piyandu prescription can improve AD-like skin lesions in BALB/c mice by promoting ROS clearance， enhancing TAOC， and inhibiting oxidative stress， thus protecting the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.

Research progress in treatment of post-stroke depression with Bushen Shugan method / 国际中医中药杂志

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has its own unique features in the treatment of post-stroke depression (PSD). The kidney is the congenital foundation and is closely related to the brain. Kidney deficiency runs through the entire course of stroke. Liver regulates the normal operation of qi in the human body, which is closely related to depression syndrome. Kidney deficiency and liver depression affect each other. The treatment of PSD with the Bushen Shugan (tonifying the kidney and soothing the liver) method has achieved good efficacy in clinic. The method of tonifying kidney and soothing liver can not only reflect the holistic view of TCM and the association of viscera, but also coordinate the relationship between body and spirit. In the future, the development direction of PSD in TCM research should be to further strengthen the concept of co-regulation of body and spirit and integration of brain and viscera.

Effect of Tripterygium wilfordii Polyglycoside on Expression of NFAT2/COX-2 in Kidney Tissues of Rats with Diabetic Nephropathy / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the underlying mechanism of Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets （TWPT） in the prevention and treatment of kidney injury in diabetic nephropathy （DN） through the nuclear factor of activated T-cells 2（NFAT2）/cyclooxygenase-2（COX-2） pathway. MethodForty-two male SD rats of SPF grade were selected and randomly divided into a normal group （n=8） and an experimental group （n=34） after one week of adaptive feeding. The rats in the normal group were fed conventionally. The DN model was established in rats of the experimental group by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin （STZ） following one week of feeding on a high-fat and high-glucose diet. After the death and failure cases during modeling were eliminated， the remaining 24 model rats were randomly divided into model group， valsartan （8.33 mg·kg-1·d-1） group， and TWPT （5 mg·kg-1·d-1） group. Rats in normal group and model group were given equal amounts of normal saline by gavage. After six weeks， body weight was measured and urine samples were collected. Blood samples were collected from the abdominal aorta， and then the rats were sacrificed for sampling. Biochemical indicators， such as serum blood urea nitrogen （BUN）， serum creatinine （SCr）， alanine aminotransferase （ALT）， blood lipid， blood glucose， and 24-hour urine total protein （24 h UTP）， were determined. Hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining and Masson staining were used to observe the pathology of the kidney. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） was used to detect NFAT2 and COX-2 expression levels in the serum. Western blot and Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction（Real-time PCR）were adopted to detect NFAT2， COX-2 protein and mRNA expression in kidney tissues， respectively. ResultCompared with the normal group， the model group showed elevated 24 h UTP， BUN， SCr， CHO， TG， and FBG， increased serum NFAT2 and COX-2 production and expression （P<0.01）， and elevated protein and mRNA expression of NFAT2 and COX-2 in kidney tissues （P<0.01）. In addition， the pathology of the kidney showed enlarged glomeruli， mild proliferation of mesangial cells， and widened mesangial stroma. Compared with the model group， the TWPT group showed decreased 24 h UTP， BUN， SCr， CHO， TG， and FBG （P<0.05，P<0.01）， basically normal glomerular morphology， decreased expression of serum NFAT2 and COX-2 （P<0.01）， and down-regulated protein and mRNA expression of NFAT2 and COX-2 in kidney tissues （P<0.01）. ConclusionTWPT can alleviate 24 h UTP in DN model rats， protect renal function， and improve renal pathology， and its mechanism of action may be related to the down-regulation of NFAT2/COX-2 expression in the serum and kidney tissues.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis Based on NLRP3 Inflammasome： A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Ulcerative colitis （UC） is a common inflammatory bowel disease （IBD） in clinical practice， characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain， diarrhea， and bloody mucus in the stool. It is difficult to cure and has a high recurrence rate. The pathogenesis of UC is related to abnormal immune response， oxidative stress in intestinal tissues， and inflammatory reactions. As reported， the abnormal activation of the NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 （NLRP3） inflammasome is involved in the pathological process of UC. This activation triggers pathological mechanisms such as oxidative stress， pyroptosis， and inflammation in intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore， blocking the abnormal activation of NLRP3 is beneficial for alleviating UC. Currently， western medicine treatment for UC mainly includes salicylic acid derivatives， corticosteroids， and biologics， but the overall efficacy is unsatisfactory. Traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） treatment of this disease has the advantages of significant efficacy and low recurrence rate. In recent years， great advances have been made in the basic research of using TCM methods to treat UC. Studies have found that TCM intervention targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome can significantly promote intestinal mucosal healing and treat UC， and the mechanism of action involves multiple targets， levels， and pathways. This article summarized the experimental research on the impact of TCM targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome on UC in recent years， and found that NLRP3 interacted with factors such as Caspase-1 and nuclear factor-κB （NF-κB）， thereby promoting the release of pro-inflammatory factors and cell pyroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells. This activation triggered oxidative stress， inflammatory reactions， and other pathological mechanisms. TCM acted on the NLRP3 inflammasome and its upstream and downstream factors to block the pathological process of UC， inhibit the pathological damage to the intestinal mucosa， and thereby alleviate colonic ulcers. The findings of this study provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of UC and further drug development.

Efectos de un programa de educación vial, tránsito y movilidad sobre actitudes y conocimientos de escolares de Barranquilla (Colombia)

Introducción: En Colombia mueren anualmente alrededor de 7000 personas por accidentes de tránsito y otras resultan gravemente heridas, con más de 30 000 lesionados en 2018. Estas cifras reflejan un problema de salud pública, lo que hace necesario generar un proceso de concienciación para lograr un cambio de actitud en todos los actores viales, así como incrementar el conocimiento de las personas respecto a la movilización y las señales de tránsito. Objetivo: Determinar el impacto de un programa educativo en conocimiento vial en la adopción de actitudes seguras hacia el tránsito y la movilidad en escolares de 11 a 14 años de Barranquilla, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: La investigación está estructurada en un diseño de preprueba, posprueba con grupo de comparación con mediciones a través de dos escalas: una escala de actitudes de los estudiantes en relación con la seguridad vial y un segundo instrumento que evalúa conocimientos respecto a las normas de tránsito y la movilidad. Resultados: Se encontró que existen diferencias significativas entre los niños que tuvieron la experiencia educativa en relación con las normas y señales de tránsito. Conclusiones: La educación vial se muestra como una estrategia positiva en la formación de actitudes seguras en relación con la normativa de tránsito y movilidad.

Introduction: In Colombia, 7,000 people, in average, die every year from traffic accidents and others are seriously injured, with more than 30,000 injured in 2018. These figures reflect a public health problem, which makes it necessary to generate an awareness process to achieve change in attitude in all road actors, as well as increasing people's knowledge regarding mobilization and traffic signs. Objective: To determine the impact of an educational program on road knowledge in the adoption of safe attitudes towards traffic and mobility in schoolchildren aged 11 to 14 years from Barranquilla, Colombia. Materials and methods: This research is structured in a pre-test and post-test design with a comparison group with measurements through two scales: a scale of students' attitudes in relation to road safety, and a second instrument that assesses knowledge regarding traffic regulations and mobility. Results: It was found that there are significant differences between the children who had the educational experience in relation to traffic rules and signs. Conclusions: Road safety education is shown as a positive strategy in the formation of safe attitudes in relation to traffic and mobility regulations.

Experimental study on the feasibility of optimizing chemotherapy regimen for mouse model of 5-FU resistant gastric cancer by the early changes of apparent diffusion coefficient after chemotherapy / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To prospectively guide the change of chemotherapy regimen in mouse 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance subcutaneous xenograft tumor model derived from gastric cancer patients by the early changes of MRI apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and to compare the difference of tumor load between ADC guided dressing change group and volume guided dressing change group.Methods:From January to June 2020, thirty patient-derived xenografts mouse models were established using 5-FU resistant gastric cancer cells coming from patients, and were randomly divided into experimental group and control group by AdaBoost algorithm, with 15 mice in each group. On the 26th day after transplantation, all mice began chemotherapy with 5-FU as the first-line chemotherapy drug, and underwent MR examination once every two days, including T 2WI and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). Volumes of tumors were measured using an open-source software ITK-SNAP and values of ADC were measured on ADC maps. According to the change rate of tumor ADC value in the experimental group and the tumor volume growth rate in the control group, the replacement time of chemotherapy drugs was determined, and 5-FU was replaced by paclitaxel. The end point of the experiment was the day that the mice entered the cachexia state. Independent-sample t test was used to compare the difference of tumor load between the two groups. Results:After 5-FU treatment, the ADC value of the two groups both increased. The ADC value began to decline on the 4th day after chemotherapy, and the experimental group continued chemotherapy with paclitaxel instead of 5-FU at this time point. The tumor volume growth rate of the control group increased significantly on the 6th day after chemotherapy (from 8.6% to 16.1%), and the control group used paclitaxel instead of 5-FU chemotherapy at this time point. The observed end point was on the 18th day after chemotherapy. The tumor load of the experimental group [(1.82±0.09) cm 3] was lower than that of the control group [(2.01±0.09) cm 3], and the difference was statistically significant ( t=2.25, P=0.033). On the 16th day after chemotherapy in the experimental group and the 18th day after chemotherapy in the control group, the time of paclitaxel administration in both groups was 12 days. The tumor load in the experimental group [(1.61±0.12) cm 3] was also lower than that in the control group [(2.01±0.09) cm 3], and the difference was statistically significant ( t=2.03, P=0.040). Conclusions:For the subcutaneous transplantation model of 5-FU resistant gastric cancer mice, according to the early changes of tumor ADC value after chemotherapy, the replacement of chemotherapy drugs can obtain a lower tumor load, suggesting that it is a feasible method to optimize the chemotherapy regimen.

Experimental study of magnetic compression technique for anastomosis reconstruction of esophagus / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To investigate the feasibility of magnamosis rings designed based on magnetic compression technique in esophageal anastomosis reconstruction. Methods    According to the anatomical characteristics of esophagus in SD rats, the esophageal magnamosis rings were designed. SD rats were used as animal models (n=10, 5 males and 5 females) to complete the magnetic anastomosis reconstruction of the cervical esophagus using magnamosis rings, and the operation time, animal survival, postoperative complications, magnetic rings excretion time were recorded. Two weeks after operation, the rats were killed, and the esophageal anastomotic specimens were obtained. The blasting pressure of the anastomotic site was measured and the formation of the anastomotic site was observed with naked eyes. Results    Esophageal magnamosis was successfully performed in 10 SD rats, and the median operation time was 11 (8-13) min. All rats survived without anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stenosis, or magnetic rings incarceration. The magnetic rings were discharged after 8 (5-10) days and the burst pressure was higher than 300 mm Hg. Visual observation showed that the anastomotic muscle healed well and the mucosa was smooth. Conclusion    The magnetic compression technique  can be used for anastomosis reconstruction of esophagus, which has the advantages of simple operation and reliable anastomosis effect, and has clinical application prospect.

Noninvasive assessment of liver fibrosis staging with MR elastography versus ultrasound real-time shear wave elastography in a rabbit model / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To explore the value of MR elastography (MRE) and shear wave elastography (SWE) for staging liver fibrosis in a rabbit model.Methods:From March to November 2020, 200 healthy New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into control group ( n=40) and liver fibrosis group ( n=160) by random number table method. The volume ratio of CCl 4 and olive oil was 1∶1 to prepare 50% CCl 4 oil solution, and the experimental rabbits in the liver fibrosis group were subcutaneously injected with 50% CCl 4 olive oil solution. It was injected once a week at the dose of 0.1 ml/kg in the first to third weeks, once a week at the dose of 0.2 ml/kg in the 4th to 6th weeks. The dose of 0.1 ml/kg was injected twice a week from week 7 to 16. The control group were subcutaneously injected with an equal dose of normal saline. At the end of the 4th, 8th, 12th, and 16th week, 40 and 10 animals in the liver fibrosis group and the control group were randomly selected by random number table method for MRE and SWE, respectively, to obtain the liver elastic stiffness (LS), which were recorded as LS MRE and LS SWE. After the examination, the experimental rabbits were sacrificed and liver tissue of rabbits were taken for histopathological Scheuer staging, and they were divided into F0-F4 groups. One-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the differences of LS MRE and LS SWE in different stages of liver fibrosis. Spearman correlation was used to analyze the correlation between LS and pathological stages. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the efficacy of LS MRE and LS SWE in diagnosing liver fibrosis staging, and the area under the curve (AUC) was compared using the Z test. Results:Totally 162 rabbits were included, which covered F0 ( n=38), F1 ( n=33), F2 ( n=35), F3 ( n=31) and F4 ( n=25). Significant differences of LS MRE and LS SWE values were found among different stages of liver fibrosis ( F=295.29, 102.40, both P<0.001). LS MRE, LS SWE were both positively correlated with liver fibrosis stage ( r=0.93, 0.81, both P<0.001). The AUC of LS MRE for diagnosing liver fibrosis stages ≥F1, ≥F2, ≥F3, and ≥F4 were 0.955, 0.967, 0.996, and 0.980, respectively; the AUC of LS SWE were 0.856, 0.880, 0.974, and 0.953, respectively. The AUC of liver fibrosis stage ≥ F1, ≥ F2 for LS MRE value were greater than LS SWE value ( Z=2.93, 3.29, P=0.003, 0.001), and the AUC of ≥F3, ≥F4 had no significant differences ( Z=1.58, 1.68, P=0.115, 0.093). Conclusion:Both MRE and SWE can accurately predict the stage of liver fibrosis in experimental rabbits, and MRE is better than SWE in diagnosing early liver fibrosis.

Therapeutic Effect of Yunüjian on Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications： A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Yunüjian （Jing Yue's Collected Works）， composed of Gypsum Fibrosum， Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata， Anemarrhenae Rhizoma， Ophiopogonis Radix， and Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix， is used for the treatment of "headache， toothache， consumptive thirst， and other diseases caused by heat and Yin deficiency in the stomach". In modern clinical settings， it has definite hypoglycemic efficacy， as it improves insulin resistance， inhibits oxidative stress and inflammatory response， and down-regulates estrogen level. It is often directly used， modified before use， combined with other formulae （Liuwei Dihuangtang， Shashen Maidongtang， Shenqi Sanjingtang， Huangqi Guizhi Wuwutang， Zengyetang， Zengye Baihutang， etc.）， or used together with western medicine （insulin， metformin， pioglitazone， glurenorm， etc.）. Modified Yunüjian can be applied for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus， gestational diabetes， polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance， pruritus induced by diabetes mellitus， diabetic peripheral neuropathy， diabetic nephropathy， diabetic ketoacidosis， diabetic retinopathy， and diabetic periodontitis. According to previous experiment， the protection for pancreatic islet β-cells is an important way of Yunüjian to improve diabetes mellitus. The formula can remove damaged proteins and organelles by increasing the expression of autophagy-related 2B （Atg2B）， ubiquitin-like-conjugating enzyme （Atg3）， γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor-associated protein （GABARAP）， selective autophagy receptor （p62/SQSTM1）， etc. Moreover， it plays an active role in islet cell proliferation and apoptosis by regulating the expression of mammalian target of rapamycin （mTOR） and reducing the expression of islet β-cell autophagy gene （Beclin）. These are pivotal for maintaining the quantitative structure and functions of islet cells. The modulatory effect of Yunüjian on growth hormone-releasing peptide （ghrelin）， gastrin， and growth hormone secretagogue receptor （GHSR） mRNA expression is also the underlying mechanism for the formula to protect pancreatic β-cells. In this study， we summarized the clinical and experimental studies on the therapeutic effect of this formula on diabetes mellitus， discussed the mechanisms， and proposed suggestions on the problems， hoping to provide a reference for the clinical application and further development of Yunüjian. This study is of practical significance for the scientific interpretation of the modern connotation of Yunüjian and the expansion of its clinical application.

Significance of "Qingfei" and "Paidu" of Qingfei Paidu Decoction in Treatment of COVID-19 / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） has played an important role in the prevention and treatment of novel coronavirus disease 2019 （COVID-19）. Qingfei Paidu decoction，as a general prescription of Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia from the sixth to eighth versions，has been proved effective clinically and is suitable for mild，moderate，severe，and critical patients. It can significantly improve clinical symptoms such as fever， cough，asthma，fatigue， etc. On the basis of the findings of relevant research papers，this paper summarized the TCM understanding of COVID-19， including etiology，pathogenesis， disease location， and treatment，and concluded that the disease is caused by the pestilential Qi，localized in the lungs， and can affect the five organs. It is mainly characterized by coldness，dampness，heat，toxicity，stasis，and deficiency. In response to the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease，the therapeutic principles at all stages are dominated by the elimination of pathogens and removal of toxicity. According to the stages of disease development，the treatment should combine the severity of the disease and the course of the disease with the TCM syndromes. Furthermore，from the clinical application of Qingfei Paidu decoction，this paper discussed the therapeutic intention of "Qingfei （clearing of lungs）" and "Paidu （removal of toxicity）". Qingfei Paidu decoction can clear the pathogenic toxin in the lungs and eliminate external pestilential Qi，which is in line with the therapeutic principles for this pandemic by regulating the triple energizer and protecting healthy Qi using both coldness and warmth to treat both the symptoms and the root cause. Additionally，the experimental research progress on Qingfei Paidu decoction and its modified prescriptions were summarized. As studied， this prescription can inhibit cytokine storm，moderate the overactive immune response，potentiate the immune function and anti-viral ability of the body，and exert its effect on COVID-19 with multiple components，multiple targets，multiple pathways， and multiple biological functions. In conclusion，Qingfei Paidu decoction，as a core prescription for the treatment of COVID-19，can rapidly contain the development of COVID-19， which has been confirmed in terms of TCM theory，clinical efficacy， and experimental research.

Experimental study of the removal of Candida albicans from mouse tongues using photoactivated disinfection / 口腔疾病防治

Objective @#To establish a mouse model of acute pseudomembranous stomatitis and to observe the effect of photoactivated disinfection (PAD) on the removal of Candida albicans in vivo, and initially explore the feasibility of this technology in the treatment of acute pseudomembranous stomatitis.@*Methods@#Six-week-old male ICR mice were selected and immunized with 1 × 107CFU/mL Candida albicans solution on the backs of the tongues of immunosuppressed mice. Thirty model mice with acute pseudomembranous stomatitis were successfully established and randomly divided into a control group and a photoactivated disinfection group, with 15 mice in each group. Mice in the photoactivated disinfection group were coated with 1 mg/mL toluidine blue solution on the back of the tongue, incubated for 1 min and irradiated with 750 mW LED red light for 1 min. Immediately after treatment, the tongue fungal load was measured in the photoactivated disinfection group and the control group. Tongue fungal load was measured again 48 h later, and tongue histopathological examination was performed in both groups. @*Results @# Forty-eight hours after PAD treatment, the white pseudomembrane on the back of the tongue in the photoactivated group was significantly less than the control group. The fungal load on the dorsum of the tongue in the treatment group was significantly lower than the control group immediately and 48 h after treatment for PAD, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Forty-eight hours after PAD treatment, HE staining showed that the epithelial structure of the PAD group was more regular than the control group, and no microabscesses were observed. PAS staining showed that the number of mycelia in the PAD group was significantly less than the control group. Mycelia occasionally invaded the keratinized layer but did not penetrate into the upper cortex.@*Conclusion@#PAD significantly removed Candida albicans from the tongues of mice with acute pseudomembranous Candida stomatitis.

Reduciendo la ideación suicida en adolescentes con terapia de perspectiva temporal. Un estudio experimental / Reducing suicidal ideation in adolescents with time perspective therapy. An experimental study

Resumen El suicidio es una de las principales causas de muerte en el mundo, problema que en los últimos años ha venido en aumento sostenido para la población adolescente. En particular, la ideación suicida se ha relacionado fuertemente con el intento suicida, un predictor directo del suicidio; sin embargo, se encuentran escasas estrategias para disminuir la ideación suicida diseñadas principalmente para la depresión. Considerando las posibilidades terapéuticas de la teoría de Zimbardo sobre la perspectiva temporal equilibrada, en el presente estudio se diseñó una intervención breve basada en la perspectiva del tiempo para adolescentes con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de una intervención de perspectiva temporal en la modificación de indicadores de ideación y conducta suicida en adolescentes. De este modo, se realizó un estudio experimental, donde 82 participantes de 15 a 19 años fueron asignados a una intervención experimental o a un grupo control. Los participantes del grupo experimental (n = 43) participaron durante 8 sesiones del programa de intervención de perspectiva del tiempo denominado "Serenamente". Las mediciones pre-post se realizaron sobre las variables de ideación suicida (Okasha), el perfil temporal (ZTPI) y la calidad de vida (SF-36). Como resultados, se encontró que la intervención reduce la ideación suicida en un 41 %; y que, posiblemente, mejora la salud física de quienes reciben este tipo de tratamiento. Los resultados son un avance promisorio con fines preventivos en contextos educativos y de salud.

Abstract Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the world, a problem that has been steadily increasing in recent years for the adolescent population. In particular, suicidal ideation has been strongly associated with suicide attempt, a direct predictor of suicide; however, few strategies to decrease suicidal ideation designed primarily for depression are found. Considering the therapeutic possibilities of Zimbardo's theory on balanced time perspective, in the present study a brief intervention for adolescents based on that theory was designed with the aim of evaluating the effect of a time perspective intervention on the modification of indicators of suicidal ideation and behavior in adolescents. Thus, an experimental study was conducted, where 82 participants aged 15 to 19 were assigned to either an experimental intervention or a control group. The participants of the experimental group (n = 43) engaged in eight sessions of the time perspective intervention program called "Serenity". Pre-post measurements were made on the variables of suicidal ideation (Okasha), time profile (ZTPI) and quality of life (SF-36). Results show that the intervention reduces suicidal ideation by 41%; and that, possibly, it improves the physical health of those who receive this type of treatment. The results are a promising advance for preventive purposes in educational and health contexts.

Estudio experimental cadavérico para valorar el sistema de protección y guía de osteotomía (BARU) en cirugías de hallux valgus con técnica de Reverdin-Isham / Experimental cadaveric study assesing protection and osteotomy guide system (BARU) in hallux valgus surgery using Reverdin-Isham technic

Resumen: Introducción: El hallux valgus es una patología con alta prevalencia en la población. Técnicas de corrección quirúrgica han crecido en popularidad últimamente. Una de ellas es la de Reverdin-Isham (RI: osteotomía incompleta medial en primer metatarsiano), se desarrolló un dispositivo de protección y guía de corte para dicho procedimiento: el sistema BARU. Objetivo: Probar la utilidad del sistema BARU como factor protector de estructuras blandas adyacentes al sitio de abordaje y guía para osteotomía. Material y métodos: Estudio cadavérico; seis pies (dos frescos y cuatro formolados) sin abordajes previos. Tres con el sistema BARU y tres sin éste. Posteriormente disección por dos disectores con enmascaramiento simple ciego. Se evaluaron 13 estructuras en cada pie. Los datos fueron recabados con Microsoft Office Excel y procesados en SPSS. Se realizó test de χ2 (valor p < 0.05 significativo) y se calculó el riesgo relativo. Resultados: El sistema BARU fue satisfactorio. Su colocación fue sencilla y el control radiológico mostró adecuada ubicación espacial. Ayudó como referencia para la dirección y profundidad del corte. Se encontraron 65 de las 78 estructuras buscadas (83.3%). En las estructuras evaluadas hubo seis lesiones: nervio plantar medial (uno dañado), arteria plantar medial (uno dañado), músculo flexor corto (tres dañados), músculo abductor (uno dañado). Cinco de estas lesiones ocurrieron en pies donde no se utilizó el sistema BARU. Conclusión: Resultados prometedores en cuanto a protección de estructuras cercanas, guía de corte y facilidad para la intervención. Cálculos estadísticos no significativos, la muestra debería ampliarse.

Abstract: Introduction: Hallux valgus is a high frequency disorder, affecting the first ray. Operative correction techniques have grown popularity lately. One of them is the Reverdin-Isham technique (first metatarsal medial incomplete osteotomy). Recently, a protection and osteotomy cutting guide has been developed: the BARU system. Objective: To test the usefulness of the BARU system as a protective factor for soft structures adjacent to the surgical site and guidance for osteotomy. Material and methods: Experimental cadaveric study. Six cadaveric feet (two fresh-frozen and four in formaldehyde solution), unapproached. Feet were numbered and intervened with RI technique, three of them with BARU system and three without it. Afterwards, dissection by two dissectors who did not know whether the BARU system had been used or not, establishing a single-blinded model. 13 structures were evaluated in each foot. Data was recovered into Microsoft Office Excel and processed with SPSS. χ2 test (significative if p value < 0.05) and relative risk were calculated. Results: Approach using BARU system was satisfactory, with usual-size operation-ports. BARU system colocation was simple and radiological control showed adequate spatial location. The device contributed as reference for cutting direction and depth. 65 out of the 78 searched structures were found (83.3%). Six injuries were found among the assessed structures: plantar medial nerve (one injury), plantar medial artery (one injury), flexor brevis muscle (three injuries), abductor muscle (one injury). Five of these injuries occurred in non-utilizing BARU system feet. Conclusion: Promising results in terms of protection of nearby structures, cutting guide, and ease of intervention. Avoids X-rays exposure. Not significant statistical calculations, the sample should be enlarged.

Investigation on Mechanism of Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng Decoction Against Renal Interstitial Fibrosis in Regulating Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway by MiRNA-139 / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To investigate the mechanism of Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng decoction in regulating the effect of miRNA139 on Wnt/<italic>β</italic>-catenin signaling pathway for renal interstitial fibrosis. Method:The 120 mice were randomly divided into sham operation group， unilateral ureteral obstruction （UUO） group， Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng decoction low， middle， high dose group， and Niaoduqing group. The UUO animal model was established to observe the morphological changes in mice. Intragastic administration was started from day 3 after modeling. The sham operation group and UUO group received the same amount of distilled water every day. The low， medium and high-dose groups received Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng decoction solution at 6，12，24 g·kg^-1·d^-1 respectively. The Niaoduqing group received 6.2 g·kg^-1·d^-1 Niaoduqing granule solution. After 14 d and 21 d， 28 d ， the morphological changes， general signs and renal interstitial fibrosis index of the obstructed side were observed， hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining and Masson staining were used to observe the pathological changes of renal tissue. Real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR） method was used to detect the miRNA-139 expression in renal tissue volume， Western blot was used to detect expression of beta serial proteins （<italic>β</italic>-catenin） and fibrinolytic enzyme activators inhibitor-1 （PAI-1） in renal tissues， and immunohistochemical assay was used for detection of matrix metalloproteinases-7 （MMP-7） protein expression at the obstruction side. Result:After 14， 21 and 28 days， the expression levels of <italic>β</italic>-catenin and PAI-1 in UUO group were higher than those in sham operation group（<italic>P</italic><0.05），while the expression levels of miRNA139 and MMP-7 protein were lower than those of sham operation group （<italic>P</italic><0.05）. The expression levels of <italic>β</italic>-catenin and PAI-1 proteins in mice after treatment in Niaoduqing group and the traditional Chinese medicine groups were lower than those in the UUO group（<italic>P</italic><0.05）， the expression of miRNA139 and MMP-7 proteins increased（<italic>P</italic><0.05）， and the efficacy of high-dose Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng decoction group was better than that of other dosage groups or Niaoduqing group（<italic>P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:Jianzhong Bushen Xiaozheng decoction may regulate miRNA139 to mediate the process of renal interstitial fibrosis through the Wnt/ <italic>β</italic>-catenin pathway and delay the development of renal interstitial fibrosis to improve renal function.

The Effectiveness Of An Incentive-Based Weight Reducing Technique Among University Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Students, Malaysia

@#Increasing overweight and obesity prevalence are growing health concerns globally and in Malaysia due to various contributing factors such as life style, dietary intake (high sugar & high fat diets), less physical activities etc. In order to explore an effective weight reducing strategy for overweight and obese students; this study aimed to examine the significance of offering a monetary reward to students for weight reduction at the University Pendidkan Sultan Idris (UPSI), Malaysia. An experimental study was conducted among Forty Eight (48) University students selected based on criteria of Body Mass Index (BMI) above 25. The convenient sampling was used for 3-months weight reduction experimental program comprised of "repeated measure design" which involved multiple measurement of each subject and their exposure to all study conditions. Participants were divided into two groups: 12-pairs and 24-individuals to further compare results. Three introductory lectures were given to students by a nutritionist to educate both groups on ' nutritional aspects of everyday eating'. Participants were requested to attend follow-ups every two weeks to record their weight. ANOVA repeated measure with fixed effects were used to analyze data. Results indicated that "offering monetary reward" brought significant change in both groups students' weight reduction (F (3.09, 142.24) = 18.16, p <0.05.), and hasn't found significant comparative difference between two groups' weight reduction (F (1, 46) =2.74, p =0.10). The study reveals that offering monetary incentive or reinforcement to University-level students is an effective strategy in weight reduction either incentive is given to the groups or individuals. A similar long-term research project needs to be implemented and/or further research is required with large sample size to examine sustainability of weight loosing behavior reinforced by monetary incentives.

Progress in experimental research of retinitis pigmentosa / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited eye disease. The inheritance methods include autosomal dominant inheritance, autosomal recessive inheritance, and sex-linked recessive inheritance. Currently, there are more than 3,000 mutation sites, which makes clinical treatment of this disease difficult. Ophthalmologists are committed to exploring the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, and have conducted a large number of experimental studies, mainly including drug treatment, cell transplantation, gene therapy, <i>etc</i>. Drug therapy includes traditional Chinese medicine, antioxidants, anti-apoptotic agents, neurotrophic factors, <i>etc</i>. Compared with other treatment methods, it is non-invasive and convenient and cheap, but its mechanism of action needs further research. Cell transplantation is considered an effective method for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, but it may cause preretinal membrane and macular folds. Although gene therapy has certain limitations, with the development of gene editing technology and new gene delivery vectors, it will become one of the most promising treatments for retinitis pigmentosa in the future. This article reviews and prospects the recent experimental research on retinitis pigmentosa.

Progress in experimental research of retinitis pigmentosa / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

@#Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited eye disease. The inheritance methods include autosomal dominant inheritance, autosomal recessive inheritance, and sex-linked recessive inheritance. Currently, there are more than 3,000 mutation sites, which makes clinical treatment of this disease difficult. Ophthalmologists are committed to exploring the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, and have conducted a large number of experimental studies, mainly including drug treatment, cell transplantation, gene therapy, <i>etc</i>. Drug therapy includes traditional Chinese medicine, antioxidants, anti-apoptotic agents, neurotrophic factors, <i>etc</i>. Compared with other treatment methods, it is non-invasive and convenient and cheap, but its mechanism of action needs further research. Cell transplantation is considered an effective method for the treatment of retinitis pigmentosa, but it may cause preretinal membrane and macular folds. Although gene therapy has certain limitations, with the development of gene editing technology and new gene delivery vectors, it will become one of the most promising treatments for retinitis pigmentosa in the future. This article reviews and prospects the recent experimental research on retinitis pigmentosa.

Análise da efetividade do estágio prático internacional de enfermagem em relação ao estágio prático nacional de enfermagem / Análisis de la efectividad de la práctica profesional internacional de enfermería con relación a la práctica profesional nacional de enfermería / Analysis of the effectiveness of international nursing practicum over national nursing practicum

Resumo Objetivo: Este estudo foi conduzido para avaliar a efetividade do estágio prático internacional de enfermagem quanto à autoeficácia, competência cultural e competência global. Foi utilizada a análise fatorial para avaliar a confiabilidade das medidas do estudo. Métodos: Um método de amostragem intencional foi usado para coletar os dados: os participantes eram estudantes de enfermagem (n=66) do segundo semestre do terceiro ano do curso de graduação. Para a análise fatorial, foram agrupados os resultados obtidos dos grupos controle e experimental (n=132) por meio de um questionário. A pesquisa foi realizada antes e após o estágio prático nacional e internacional de enfermagem para os grupos controle e experimental, respectivamente. O teste t foi utilizado para comparar os dois grupos, e Diferença em Diferenças (DD) foi utilizado para determinar a verdadeira alteração entre antes e depois do estágio. A análise do DD também mostrou que o nível de mudança antes e depois de cada estágio de enfermagem foi significativa entre os grupos controle e experimental. Resultados: A análise fatorial demonstrou que o questionário da pesquisa mensurou com confiabilidade os subconceitos. As diferenças na autoeficácia e na competência cultural entre os dois grupos foram estatisticamente significativas antes e depois do tratamento, mas os resultados de DD não foram significativos. Para a competência global, no entanto, tanto o DD quanto a diferença antes e depois do tratamento entre os dois grupos foram estatisticamente significativos. Conclusão: Apesar de algumas limitações do estudo, o desenho inovador gerou resultados que ajudam a preencher uma grande lacuna no conhecimento de enfermagem. Estudos futuros devem incluir um ensaio clínico randomizado para superar as limitações de viés de amostragem e generalização dos resultados do estudo.

Resumen Objetivo: Este estudio fue llevado a cabo para analizar la efectividad de la práctica profesional internacional de enfermería en cuanto a la autoeficacia, competencia cultural y competencia global. Se utilizó el análisis factorial para evaluar la confiabilidad de las medidas del estudio. Métodos: Fue utilizado un método de muestreo intencional para recopilar los datos: los participantes eran estudiantes de enfermería (n=66) del segundo semestre de tercer año de la carrera de grado. Para el análisis factorial, se agruparon los resultados obtenidos de los grupos de control y experimental (n=132) a través de un cuestionario. La investigación fue realizada antes y después de la práctica profesional nacional e internacional de enfermería en grupos de control y experimental, respectivamente. Se utilizó el test-T para comparar los dos grupos y la técnica Diferencia en Diferencias (DD) para determinar la verdadera modificación entre antes y después de la práctica. El análisis de DD también demostró que el nivel de cambio antes y después de cada práctica de enfermería fue significativo entre los grupos de control y experimental. Resultados: El análisis factorial demostró que el cuestionario de la investigación midió los subconceptos con confiabilidad. Las diferencias de autoeficacia y competencia cultural entre los dos grupos fueron estadísticamente significativas antes y después del tratamiento, pero los resultados de DD no fueron significativos. Sin embargo, en la competencia global, tanto la DD como la diferencia antes y después del tratamiento entre los dos grupos fueron estadísticamente significativas. Conclusión: A pesar de algunas limitaciones del estudio, el diseño innovador generó resultados que ayudan a llenar un gran vacío en el conocimiento de enfermería. Estudios futuros deben incluir un ensayo clínico aleatorizado para superar las limitaciones de perspectiva de muestreo y generalización de los resultados del estudio.

Abstract Objective: This study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of international nursing practicum on self-efficacy, cultural competency, and global competency. Methods: A purposive sampling method was used to collect the data: the participants were nursing students (n=66) who had advanced into the 2nd semester of junior level. For the factor analysis, the results of a questionnaire survey were pooled from the control and experimental groups (n=132). The survey was administered before and after the national and international nursing practicum for the control and experimental groups, respectively. The t-test was used to compare the two groups, and Difference in Difference (DID) was used to determine the true change between before and after the practicum. But if you are describing international nursing practicums and domestic nursing practicums, i.e., many different courses in different countries, and here in Korea in different universities. DID analysis also showed that the level of change before and after each nursing practicum differed significantly between the control and experimental groups. Results: Factor analysis confirmed that the survey questionnaire reliably measured the sub-concepts. The differences in self-efficacy and cultural competency between the two groups were statistically significant before and after the treatment, but DID results were not significant. For global competency, however, both DID and the difference before and after treatment between the two groups were statistically significant. Conclusion: Despite a few study limitations, the innovative study design generated findings that help to fill a large gap in nursing knowledge. Future studies should include a randomized clinical trial to overcome the limitations of sampling bias and generalization of study results.

A study to assess and develop injection administration skill in medical undergraduates of GMC, Bhopal

Background: Injections are one of the vital route of drug administration in emergency medical practice. WHO has estimated that out of 12 billion injections administered worldwide annually 50% are unsafe and 75% are unnecessary. Despite of humungous efforts medical students still lack the confidence in injecting drugs due to stress for post graduation selection. The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge of students regarding administration of I.M. and I.V. injections; to make students confident and skilful about administration of I.M. and I.V. injections and to assess the proportion of students who can skilfully administer I.V. and I.M. before and after this intervention.Methods: This was a Quasi experimental study carried out on 150 students of junior final medical students of GMC Bhopal for a period of three months.Results: Out of effective 136 students, 93.4% had ever seen I.M./ I.V. administration. 29.4% have administered I.M. and 16.9% I.V. injection ever. A significant increase in knowledge regarding I.M. and I.V. administration technique is observed following interventional training of the participants. Significant gain in self confidence among the students was perceived.Conclusions: There was a convincing increase in skillful knowledge and self-confidence for parenteral injection technique among medical undergraduates.