Modern Health Science

Four Kinds of Forces Exerted on the Utricle

Hiroaki Ichijo — 2025-05-31

Objective:

The utricle is commonly understood to detect gravity and horizontal linear acceleration. We hypothesized that it may also respond to vertical linear acceleration, horizontal angular acceleration, and centrifugal force.

Methods:

We performed six physical analogy experiments using deformable media, spring-mounted masses, and human squatting tasks (five healthy humans). Observations included deformation patterns and eye movement recordings.

Results:

(1) Submerged lead deformed the pudding, modeling gravitational deformation. (2–3) Spring-mounted masses deflected opposite to the direction of acceleration. (4) Human vertical motion did not elicit nystagmus. (5) Sudden rotation caused tangential deflection. (6) Constant-speed circular motion led to outward (centrifugal) deflection.

Conclusion:

The utricle can detect four distinct forces—gravity, horizontal and vertical linear acceleration, tangential angular acceleration, and centrifugal force—which suggests broader roles in postural control. Although utricular hair cells are continuously stimulated by Earth’s gravity, no nystagmus is observed under static conditions. Thus, static utricular activation alone does not elicit nystagmus. However, further studies are needed to quantify these effects and determine their physiological significance.

Mechanism and Research Progress of Mitochondrial Quality Control in Osteoarthritis

Yan Li — 2025-07-22

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease characterized by degenerative lesions of articular cartilage, which is characterized by cartilage degeneration, bone redundancy formation and synovial inflammation. Recent studies have found that mitochondrial dysfunction is closely related to the development of OA. Mitochondrial quality control (MQC) mechanisms, including mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial autophagy, are essential for maintaining mitochondrial function. Therefore, targeted regulation of mitochondrial quality control is a promising therapeutic strategy. This article reviews the mechanism of MQC and its relationship with OA, as well as the research progress of targeting and regulating MQC to prevent and treat OA, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the pathogenesis and preventive strategies of OA.

The Modulatory Effects of Tai Chi on the Circadian Rhythms and Sleep Quality of Seafarers in Different Navigational Regions

Mengjiao Guo — 2025-07-22

The circadian rhythm and sleep quality of seafarers are critical for their health and maritime safety; however, both are highly susceptible to disruption by environmental factors specific to different navigational regions. In particular, trans-meridian (east-west) voyages involving rapid time-zone crossings, and high-latitude (north-south) voyages encountering polar day/night phenomena, can severely disrupt the human circadian system. This study aims to investigate the potential modulatory effects of Tai Chi, as a non-pharmacological and easily implementable mind-body intervention, on the circadian rhythms and sleep quality of seafarers under different navigational conditions and to explore its differential mechanisms. This paper first systematically analyzes the core challenges to circadian rhythms posed by two typical navigational regions: the former leading to phase desynchronization between the internal clock and the external environment, and the latter causing a deficiency or disturbance of the primary zeitgeber (light). Subsequently, the paper reviews the scientific evidence for Tai Chi’s role in regulating the autonomic nervous system, optimizing neuroendocrine rhythms, and improving sleep architecture. Based on this, a core theoretical model is proposed, positing that Tai Chi may act as a potent “non-photic zeitgeber”. Through regular, daily practice at a fixed time, it can provide a stable and predictable synchronizing signal to the seafarer’s internal biological clock. We further hypothesize that Tai Chi’s mechanism of action is context-dependent: during trans-meridian voyages, it primarily serves as a rhythmic anchor to accelerate phase re-entrainment and combat jet lag; during high-latitude voyages, it functions to substitute and enhance a weak or absent light signal, helping to maintain the stability of endogenous rhythms. To validate this model, a 2x2 factorial designed randomized controlled trial is proposed to prospectively compare changes in circadian rhythms (measured by actigraphy and salivary hormones) and subjective sleep quality between a Tai Chi intervention group and a control group across the two different navigational regions. This research not only aims to provide an innovative and scientific intervention for the sleep and rhythm problems faced by seafarers in extreme environments but also seeks to deepen the understanding of mind-body exercise as a form of behavioral chronotherapy, thereby opening new avenues for safeguarding the health and safety of special occupational populations.

Clinical Characteristics of Acute Anterior Talofibular Ligament Injury in Children with Negative X-ray Fractures

Yangkun Ding — 2025-07-27

The study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury in children with negative X-ray fractures using musculoskeletal ultrasound.We analyzed a total of 85 children with low-energy ankle sprains who visited the orthopedic outpatient department of Jinan Children's Hospital from June 2023 to December 2024. All participants underwent X-ray and musculoskeletal ultrasound examinations.Based on the examination results, patients who showed fractures on X-rays and other soft tissue injuries such as ligaments on musculoskeletal ultrasound were further excluded.Finally, after strict screening, the included subjects were determined. Data on clinical examinations, X-rays, and musculoskeletal ultrasound examinations of all participants were collected. The degree of pain was assessed using the VAS pain scale, and the degree of ATFL injury was represented by the Kemmochi ultrasound standard.Finally, statistical analysis was conducted.The coincidence rate between the clinical diagnosis and ultrasound diagnosis of ATFL injury in 85 participants was 94.1%.The coincidence rate of X-ray and musculoskeletal ultrasound in the diagnosis of ankle fractures was 67.1%, and the Kappa value was 0.312. Ultimately, a total of 68 children with ATFL injury showing negative fracture results on X-rays were included, including 41 boys and 27 girls. The median age was 9.02 (95%CI,8.36-9.68), with 26 cases on the left side and 42 cases on the right side. The median injury time was 24 hours (95%CI,24.00-37.27). The median VAS pain score was 4.0 points (4.0,5.0). The most common musculoskeletal ultrasound classification was Kemmochi type V, accounting for 41.2%. In conclusion,ATFL injury is common in children with low-energy ankle sprain (94.1%). Clinical physical examination combined with musculoskeletal ultrasound diagnosis is of great significance. KemmochiⅤ was the most common type of ATFL injury with negative X-ray fractures.

Research on How Organizations can Effectively Reduce Occupational Stress and Burnout in the Long Term

Tianchen Tan — 2025-08-06

Occupational stress has become a rising problem in today’s job industries. Some jobs accumulate less stress than others and some accumulate more, however, almost every single employee in this decade has suffered at least some form of occupational stress in their career. Many researchers have been trying to study and resolve the trending problems. However, due to a lack of complete summarization and guide to counteracting the problem, many organizations and companies still struggle to provide a healthy working environment for their employees. This research will fill in the gap and accurately give the readers a complete summarization of strategies to reduce occupational stress and eliminate organizational ineffectiveness. In detail, this study will offer summarizations of topics of strategies to regulate employees’ well-being; how to take care of individuals’ mental health; how to spot occupational stress among employees; ways to spot organizational ineffectiveness within a group or company; past, well-known events that significantly increased employees’ occupational stress; and lastly how existing companies take care of their employees.

Correlation Study Between Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Coronary Atherosclerotic Heart Disease

Dihui Shen — 2025-08-14

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is recognized as a potential independent risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). This review systematically explores the association between SCH and CAD, examining mechanisms including atherogenesis, inflammatory responses, and interactions with traditional CAD risk factors. We found that varying TSH levels, sex, and the presence of comorbidities in patients with SCH are associated with the development and progression of CAD, though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. While thyroid hormone replacement therapy can improve lipid profiles and endothelial function, the cardiovascular benefits regarding hard endpoints in patients with mild SCH (TSH<10 mIU/L) or in elderly populations require confirmation through large randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In conclusion, the association between SCH and CAD is multifactorial and synergistic, and clinical intervention should consider individualized TSH levels, age, and the presence of comorbidities.

A Comprehensive Review of Chinese Herbal Formulations for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis

Ruiying Yang — 2025-08-21

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic, and relapsing inflammatory skin disorder characterized by skin irritation and intense pruritus, which significantly impairs the quality of patients’ life. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, especially in preventing disease recurrence, minimizing adverse reactions and alleviating disease burden. In this paper, we reviewed the clinical anti-AD efficacy of Chinese herbal formulae from the perspective of AD mechanisms. Following assessment indicators were used: SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD), erythema intensity, skin quality of life index (DLQI), pruritus intensity and frequency, transdermal dehydration (TEWL), and AD-mediated chemokine expression levels as index formulae. We also summarize the pharmacological effects of single herbs in the formulae. In conclusion, TCM has significant clinical efficacy for patients of all ages, both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other therapies.

Construction and Practical Verification of a "Risk-Collaboration-Digitalization" Trinity Project Management Model for Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Innovative Drug R&D

Yangchu Chen — 2025-08-27

Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs) have become a major global public health challenge. The research and development (R&D) of innovative drugs for CCVDs faces dilemmas including long R&D cycles (12-15 years on average), high costs (USD 2.5 billion per drug on average), and high clinical failure rates (over 40% for Phase III clinical trials) due to characteristics such as target complexity, strict requirements for hard clinical endpoints, and strong demand for multidisciplinary collaboration. Traditional project management models, which focus on "schedule-cost" dual control, are insufficient to adapt to the scientific uncertainties and cross-domain collaboration needs in CCVD innovative drug R&D. Based on the full R&D process of CCVD innovative drugs (drug discovery → preclinical research → Phase I/II/III clinical trials → New Drug Application, NDA), this study proposes a "Risk-Collaboration-Digitalization" trinity project management model through literature analysis, risk map construction, cross-functional team (CFT) mechanism design, and digital tool integration. Taking a new PCSK9 inhibitor (a lipid-lowering innovative drug for CCVDs) R&D project of a pharmaceutical enterprise as a verification case, key indicators before and after the model application were compared: the R&D cycle was shortened by 15.2%, the success rate of Phase III clinical trials increased by 21.3%, the one-time approval rate of NDA rose from 72% to 89%, and R&D costs decreased by 12.5%. This study fills the theoretical gap in specialized project management for CCVD innovative drugs and provides an operable practical framework for pharmaceutical enterprises to improve the efficiency and success rate of innovative drug R&D.

Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Esophageal Cancer with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Li Zhou — 2025-08-29

Esophageal cancer (EC) is one of the common malignancies with high morbidity and mortality. Despite the effectiveness of modern medical interventions such as surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy in treating EC, complications and adverse reactions still exist. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays a crucial role in preventing and treating malignant tumors by employing its unique approach based on syndrome differentiation and the concept of wholism. Numerous fundamental experiments and clinical studies have provided substantial evidence supporting the beneficial effects of TCM in managing EC. The pathogenesis of EC and the potential mechanism of TCM intervention in EC treatment are summarized in this review, aiming to offer a novel perspective for EC therapy.

Family Resilience Status and Characteristics in Families of Children with Autism: A Mixed-Methods Study

Qingwei Zeng — 2025-09-02

Objective: To analyze the status and experiences of family resilience among caregivers of children with autism, and to provide a basis for developing interventions to enhance family resilience. Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted. Two hundred and sixty-one caregivers of children undergoing rehabilitation in the pediatric rehabilitation department were surveyed using a general information questionnaire and the Chinese version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale (FRAS-C). Nine caregivers were selected for in-depth qualitative interviews. Results: The total family resilience score of caregivers was (71.26 ± 15.03), indicating a medium-low level. Interview data summarized three themes: The formation of an inclusive and resilient mindset, multidimensional ability improvement, and family collaboration and resilience. Conclusion: The family resilience level of families with autistic children needs improvement. Despite the challenges, caregivers reported positive parenting growth experiences during caregiving.

The Impact of Intrapartum Fever During Combined Spinal-Epidural Analgesia on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes

Shaoxin Kong — 2025-09-08

Background: Epidural analgesia is recognized as the gold standard for labor analgesia; however, its associated complication—epidural-related maternal fever (ERMF)—has become a focus of clinical concern. ERMF not only increases maternal infectious evaluations and antibiotic use but may also adversely affect neonatal outcomes. Combined spinal-epidural analgesia (CSEA), with its rapid onset and reduced requirement for local anesthetics, is considered to potentially reduce the risk of ERMF.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of ERMF on maternal and neonatal outcomes among parturients receiving CSEA for labor analgesia.

Methods: This retrospective study included 100 full-term primiparas who delivered at the Zhaoqing Branch of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between January and June 2025, all of whom received CSEA for labor analgesia. Based on whether fever occurred during labor (axillary temperature ≥37.5 ℃), participants were categorized into a fever group (n=50) and an afebrile group (n=50). Maternal demographic data, labor parameters, laboratory indices, and neonatal outcomes were collected and compared between groups.

Results: Compared with the afebrile group, the fever group had a significantly prolonged second stage of labor (P<0.05), increased intrapartum blood loss, and higher oxytocin usage (P<0.05). Postpartum leukocyte counts and neutrophil ratios were elevated in the fever group (P<0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed at admission. Regarding neonatal outcomes, no significant differences were found in birth weight, length, or Apgar scores (P>0.05); however, the fever group demonstrated higher umbilical arterial lactate levels, lower base excess (P<0.05), and a significantly increased NICU admission rate (P<0.05).

Conclusions: ERMF is not uncommon among parturients receiving CSEA for labor analgesia. Its occurrence may contribute to prolonged second-stage labor, increased maternal blood loss, greater oxytocin requirement, and unfavorable short-term neonatal outcomes. Clinicians should strengthen the prevention and management of ERMF while ensuring adequate analgesia to optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Research on a Comprehensive Evaluation System of Multi-Dimensional Psychological Test Scales Based on Factor Analysis Method

Yuxin Hou — 2025-09-08

Based on factor analysis, 148 subjects were evaluated by symptom checklist 90 (SCL-90), Big Five personality scale and career maturity scale. After standardized and non-dimensional data processing and verification of suitability, six key common factors were extracted, including mental health, career planning, information processing.personality traits, psychological deterioration degree and interpersonal relationship.and the cumulative variance contribution rate was 82.59%. The effective samples were divided into three types: sunshine elite type, medium adaptability type and workplace apprenticae type by systematic clustering method. The research results provide scientific basis for talent selection, training and team building, and emphasize the importance of mental health assessment and individualized training.which has theoretical and practical value.

The Effect of Occlusal Adjustment on Periodontal Treatment Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis and Occlusal Trauma

Liu Chang — 2025-09-09

Objective: To investigate the effect of occlusal intervention combined with basic periodontal treatment on patients with chronic periodontitis complicated by occlusal abnormalities, and to provide evidence-based support for clinical practice. Methods: Sixty patients with chronic periodontitis accompanied by occlusal dysfunction who visited our hospital from January to December 2023 were selected as study samples and randomly divided into an experimental group (n=30) and a control group (n=30). The control group received standard periodontal basic treatment (including supragingival cleaning, subgingival scaling, and root planing), while the experimental group received additional occlusal function correction (involving early contact point modification, elimination of occlusal interference, and reconstruction of occlusal stability) based on the standard treatment. The periodontal status indicators (including probing depth PD, attachment level AL, and gingival bleeding index GBI) and overall treatment efficacy were evaluated in both groups before and after 3 months of treatment. Results: Before treatment, there were no significant differences in the detection data of periodontal probing depth (PD), attachment loss (AL), and gingival bleeding index (GBI) between the two groups (P>0.05). After 3 months of treatment, the experimental group showed significantly better results in terms of PD, AL, and GBI compared to the control group, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). Additionally, the overall treatment efficacy rate in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: For patients with chronic periodontitis complicated by occlusal trauma, occlusal adjustment intervention supplemented with standard periodontal treatment can effectively improve the health status of periodontal tissues and significantly enhance clinical efficacy. It is worth promoting and applying in clinical practice.

Synergistic Effects of BMP-2 and VEGF with Calcined Bovine Bone for Alveolar Ridge Preservation: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Yinhua Xia — 2025-09-09

Background: Alveolar ridge remodeling following tooth extraction can result in significant dimensional loss, compromising future implant placement. While calcined bovine bone (CBB) has shown promise in socket preservation, the synergistic effects of combining CBB with bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) remain inadequately studied.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of different growth factor combinations with CBB for alveolar ridge preservation following tooth extraction through a randomized controlled trial.

Methods: Eighty patients requiring molar or premolar extraction were randomly allocated into four groups (n=20 each): control (no treatment), CBB alone, CBB+BMP-2, and CBB+BMP-2+VEGF. Primary outcomes included alveolar ridge dimensional changes assessed by cone-beam computed tomography at baseline and 3 months post-extraction. Secondary outcomes encompassed soft tissue healing evaluation using the Landry Wound Healing Index, pain assessment via Visual Analog Scale, and patient satisfaction scores. Bone density was evaluated through grayscale analysis of CBCT images.

Results: All groups showed comparable baseline characteristics. At 3 months, the CBB+BMP-2+VEGF group demonstrated superior ridge preservation with minimal buccal height loss (0.25±0.03 mm vs. 2.33±0.24 mm in controls, p<0.01) and optimal width preservation across all measurement levels. Hounsfield unit values increased most significantly in the combination group (1093.94±42.63 HU increase vs. 526.87±93.50 HU in controls, p<0.01). The CBB+BMP-2+VEGF group achieved significantly lower pain scores throughout the observation period, enhanced soft tissue healing scores, and higher patient satisfaction ratings (9.2±0.6 vs. 7.5±1.1 in controls, p<0.05).

Conclusions: The combination of CBB with BMP-2 and VEGF provides superior alveolar ridge preservation compared to conventional approaches, demonstrating enhanced dimensional stability, accelerated healing, and improved patient-reported outcomes. These findings support the clinical implementation of growth factor-enhanced socket preservation protocols for optimal implant site development.