ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Qishao capsules on renal injury in db/db mice with diabetic kidney disease （DKD），and explore its mechanism of protecting the kidney by inhibiting podocyte apoptosis. Methodsdb/m mice （7 mice） were used as the normal group，and db/db mice （35 mice） were randomly divided into a model group，a dapagliflozin group （0.001 g·kg^-1·d^-1），and low-，medium-，and high-dose groups of Qishao capsules （0.341 3，0.682 5，and 1.365 g·kg^-1·d^-1，respectively）. Drug intervention lasted for 8 consecutive weeks. After sampling，the serum renal function indicators ［creatinine（SCr），and urea nitrogen（BUN）］，fasting blood glucose （FBG），24 h urinary protein quantification （24 h-UTP）， and other indicators of the mice were measured. The pathological tissue morphology of the kidney was observed by periodic acid-silver methenamine （PASM） and Masson's trichrome （Masson） staining. Immunohistochemical detection of cysteine-dependent aspartate-specific protease （Caspase）-3 and B-cell lymphoma 2 （Bcl-2） was performed. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of Caspase-8，Caspase-7，Caspase-3， and other molecules. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick End labeling （TUNEL） staining was used to observe apoptosis in renal tissue. Immunofluorescence staining of Wilms tumor suppressor gene-1 （WT-1） was used to observe podocyte injury. Real-time polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR） was employed to detect Caspase-8 and Caspase-3 mRNA expression in the kidneys of experimental mice. Data analysis was conducted using statistical software GraphPad Prism 10. ResultsCompared with the normal group，the model group showed significantly increased 24 h-UTP，SCr，BUN，and FBG （P<0.01）. Additionally， PASM staining of renal tissue showed increased glycogen deposition，glomerular hypertrophy，and thickening of the basement membrane. Masson staining showed collagen fiber proliferation in renal tissue. Transmission electron microscopy showed thickening of the renal tissue basement membrane and fusion or loss of foot processes in the model group. The immunohistochemical results showed that Caspase-3 in the kidneys of the mice in the model group significantly increased （P<0.01），while the Bcl-2 protein expression level decreased significantly （P<0.01）. The number of TUNEL positive cells in renal tissue significantly increased （P<0.01）. The positive expression of WT-1 in podocytes was significantly reduced （P<0.01）. Western blot analysis showed significant upregulation of Caspase-8，Caspase-7，and Caspase-3 protein expression in renal tissue （P<0.01）. The mRNA expression levels of Caspase-8 and Caspase-3 in the kidneys increased significantly （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group，the Qishao capsules groups can significantly reduce the levels of 24 h-UTP，SCr，BUN，and FBG （P<0.01）. The pathological damage of renal tissue and podocyte injury were improved to some extent. Immunohistochemistry in the kidney showed a significant decrease in Caspase-3 （P<0.01） and a significant increase in Bcl-2 protein expression level （P<0.01）. Additionally， there were a significant decrease in the number of TUNEL positive cells in renal tissue （P<0.01），a significant increase in WT-1 positive expression in podocytes （P<0.01），marked downregulation of Caspase-8，Caspase-7，and Caspase-3 protein expression in renal tissue （P<0.05，P<0.01），and a significant decrease in Caspase-8 and Caspase-3 mRNA expression levels （P<0.01）. ConclusionQishao capsules can inhibit podocyte apoptosis by regulating the expression of Caspase-8，Caspase-7， and Caspase-3，thereby improving the diabetic renal injury in db/db mice.

BACKGROUND:Precision therapy based on multifunctional nanomaterials is a novel therapeutic model for malignancies that can integrate multiple imaging and therapeutic models into one nanoscale platform to achieve visual combination treatment. OBJECTIVE:To prepare novel nanoparticles loaded with Cu2(OH)PO4 nanoparticles(CuNPs)and nuciferine(NF)(h-PCuNF),and to explore their ability to mediate combined photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemodynamic therapy/chemotherapy for malignancy. METHODS:The h-PCuNF nanoparticles were synthesized through a double-emulsion procedure,through which the CuNPs and NF were loaded into the shell of hollow poly(lactic-co-glycolic)acid nanocarriers.The morphology,structure,particle size,and zeta potential of the h-PCuNF nanoparticles were characterized.In deionized water,the magnetic resonance imaging and photothermal conversion performances of the h-PCuNF nanoparticles,as well as their capability to implement reactive oxygen species production by mediating photocatalysis and Fenton-like reactions,were evaluated.In liver malignant tumor cell line HepG2 cells,the effectiveness of the photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemodynamic therapy/chemotherapy combination therapy mediated by the nanoparticles was detected by employing fluorescence imaging and MTT assay. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)The h-PCuNF nanoparticles possessed a hollow spherical structure in which the CuNPs(drug loading rate and encapsulation rate were 26.3%and 63.2%,respectively)and NF(drug loading rate and encapsulation rate were 11.0%and 52.6%,respectively)were loaded into the shell.The average particle size of the h-PCuNF nanoparticles was(309.2±10.0)nm,while the zeta potential was determined to be(-12.5±0.9)mV.In physiological environments,the nanoparticles possess favorable suspension stability.(2)In deionized water,the h-PCuNF nanoparticles could markedly enhance T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging images.The h-PCuNF nanoparticles showed remarkable photothermal conversion and photocatalytic reactive oxygen species generation capabilities under near infrared laser irradiation.In addition,the h-PCuNF nanoparticles could consume glutathione and mediate Fenton-like reactions to produce·OH.(3)The h-PCuNF nanoparticles could be taken up by HepG2 tumor cells and were mainly distributed in the cytoplasm.The synergistic therapeutic effect was demonstrated after the nanoparticles were activated by near infrared laser irradiation,because CuNPs mediated photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemodynamic therapy and NF mediated chemotherapy could synergistically eliminate the tumor cells.

BACKGROUND: Regulatory dendritic cell (DCreg) subset exhibits a unique capacity for inducing immune tolerance among the variety subsets of dendritic cells (DCs) within gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALTs). Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3L) is involved in the differentiation of DCregs and the subsequent expansion of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) mediated by DCregs, though the precise mechanism remains poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the expansion mechanism of Treg induced by DCreg and the role of FLT3L in this process. METHODS: DCregs were distinguished from other DC subsets isolated from GALTs of BALB/c mice through a mixed lymphocyte reaction assay. The functions and mechanisms by which FLT3L promoted Treg expansion via DCregs were investigated in vitro through co-culture experiments involving DCregs and either CD4 + CD25 - T-cells or CD4 + CD25 + T-cells. Additionally, an in vivo experiment was conducted using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model in mice. RESULTS: CD103 + CD11b + DC exhibited DCreg-like functionality and was identified as DCreg for subsequent investigation. Analysis of Foxp3 + Treg percentages within a co-culture system of CD4 + CD25 - T-cells and DCregs, with or without FLT3L, demonstrated the involvement of the FLT3/FLT3L axis in driving the differentiation of precursor T-cells into Foxp3 + Tregs induced by DCregs. Cell migration and co-culture assays revealed that the FLT3/FLT3L axis enhanced DCreg migration toward Tregs via the Rho pathway. Additionally, it was observed that DCregs could promote Treg proliferation through the Notch pathway, as inhibition of Notch signaling by DAPT (N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester) suppressed Treg expansion within the co-culture system of DCregs and CD4 + T-cells or CD4 + CD25 + T-cells. Furthermore, the FLT3/FLT3L axis influenced JAG1 expression in DCregs, indirectly modulating Treg expansion. In vivo experiments further established that FLT3L promoted DCreg expansion and restored Treg balance in DSS-induced colitis models, thereby ameliorating colitis symptoms in mice. CONCLUSION The FLT3/FLT3L axis is integral to the maintenance of DCreg function in Treg expansion.
Animals ; T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory/immunology* ; Dendritic Cells/immunology* ; Mice ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Membrane Proteins/metabolism* ; Receptors, Notch/metabolism* ; Lymphoid Tissue/metabolism* ; Signal Transduction/physiology* ; Coculture Techniques ; Flow Cytometry

Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of the Yinmei Kuijie decoction combined with 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) in treating mildly to moderately active ulcerative colitis (UC) under real-world conditions. Methods: This multicenter, prospective, non-randomized, observational study will be conducted in real-world settings. A total of 204 eligible patients will be consecutively enrolled in the study. Patients in the combination treatment group will receive Yinmei Kuijie decoction in combination with 5-ASA, whereas those in the control group will be treated with 5-ASA alone. The primary endpoint will be a clinical response at week 12, defined as a ≥3 point and ≥30% reduction from baseline in the Mayo total score with ≥1 reduction in rectal bleeding or rectal bleeding score = 0 or 1. Secondary efficacy endpoints at week 12 will include health-related quality of life, mucosal healing, and inflammation indicators. Conclusion The results of this study may provide evidence of the efficacy and safety of Yinmei Kuijie decoction combined with 5-ASA in treating patients with mildly to moderately active UC under real-world principles. The results will provide a basis for further confirmatory studies on the efficacy of Yinmei Kuijie decoction.

Objective:To establish a clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway for hepatitis C covering diagnosis, differential diagnosis, drug toxicity monitoring, and therapeutic and prognostic evaluation, and to explore a new teaching model for laboratory diagnostics based on the clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway.Methods:According to the clinical diagnosis and treatment guidelines for hepatitis C, laboratory testing strategies for different stages of diagnosis and treatment of the disease were formulated to establish a clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway for hepatitis C. The pathway was applied in the teaching for undergraduate medical students of the seven-year program of grade 2019 of The First Clinical College of Wuhan University, with those of grade 2018 as the control to receive traditional teaching. The teaching effect was compared through questionnaires and quizzes in class. The data were analyzed through the t test with the use of SPSS 19.0. Results:A clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway for hepatitis C recognized by clinicians was established, covering the entire process of clinical diagnosis, differential diagnosis, monitoring of drug side effects, and therapeutic and prognostic evaluation. The students of grade 2019 receiving the pathway-based teaching model had significant improvements in teaching quality evaluation indicators ( P<0.05), with the most marked improvement in "having mastered the key and difficult points of this lesson", with a score of (60.90±2.15) points for grade 2018 and (84.80±3.44) points for grade 2019. The total score for teaching evaluation was significantly higher in students of grade 2019 than in those of grade 2018 [(94.02±4.29) vs. (79.21±3.68)] points, P<0.05). Grade 2019 also had a significantly higher classroom quiz score than grade 2018 (94.60±5.63) vs. (78.10±4.92), P<0.01]. Conclusions:We established and applied a clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway of hepatitis C in the teaching model of laboratory diagnostics, which organically integrates laboratory diagnostics and clinical medicine, and significantly improves the quality of teaching.

Objective To explore Professor Wu Liqun's medication law for treating tic disorders in children.Methods Medical records of tic disorders children treated by Professor Wu Liqun from September 2016 to October 2022 were collected,and a database was established.SPSS Statistics 23 was used for frequency statistics,and Liquorice software was used for multi-scale backbone network analysis and multi-layer core network analysis to summarize the medication law.Results Totally 709 medical records were included,involving 834 prescriptions and 203 kinds of Chinese materia medica.The drug categories were mostly tonic drugs,heat-clearing drugs,and liver-pacifying and wind-relieving drugs.The properties of the drugs were mainly warming,cold,and mild,and the meridians were mostly in the lung,liver,and spleen meridians.Complex network analysis showed that the core prescription consisted of 20 kinds of Chinese materia medica,such as Angelicae Sinensis Radix,Paeoniae Radix Alba,Chuanxiong Rhizoma,Codonopsis Radix,and 30 groups of commonly used medicine pairs and commonly used medicines with different symptoms and commodities were obtained.Conclusion Professor Wu Liqun's treatment for tic disorders in children focuses on treating"liver wind",evacuating external wind to cut off the course of the disease,soothing the liver and subduing yang to extinguish internal wind,paying attention to regulating liver qi,nourishing yin and soothing the liver,nourishing blood and extinguishing wind.

Objective To investigate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation(TEAS)on emergence agitation(EA)in children undergoing selective posterior rhizotomy(SPR).Methods Forty-two children with cerebral palsy undergoing SPR were selected,20 males and 22 females,aged 6-12 years,BMI 13-24 kg/m2,ASA physical status Ⅰ or Ⅱ,randomly divided into two groups:TEAS group(group T)and control group(group C),21 children in each group.Children in group T re-ceived TEAS at the bilateral acupoints of Neiguan and Hegu from 30 minutes before anesthesia induction to the end of surgery.In group C,electrodes were placed on the same acupoints without electrical stimulation.All children in both groups received total intravenous anesthesia.HR and MAP were recorded at the time of entry,extubation,5,15,30 minutes after extubation.The consumption of remifentanil and propofol during the procedure were recorded.The time of operation and extubation were recorded.The Wong-Baker faces pain scale-revised(FPS-R)and the pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium(PAED)were recorded at 15 minutes after extubation,and the incidence of EA was assessed by PAED.While,the occurrence of post-operative nausea and vomiting(PONV)was recorded.Results Compared with that at the time of entry,HR at the time of extubation,5,15 minutes after extubation and MAP at the time of extubation,5,15,30 minutes after extubation in group C were significantly increased(P＜0.05),HR and MAP at the time of extubation,5,15 minutes after extubationin group T were significantly increased(P＜0.05).Compared with group C,HR was significantly slower and MAP was significantly lower in group T at the time of extuba-tion,5,15,30 minutes after extubation(P＜0.05).Compared with group C,the consumption of remifen-tanil during operation was reduced,the time of extubation was significantly shortened,the FPS-R and PAED were significantly decreased,and the incidence of EA were significantly reduced(P＜0.05).There were no significant differences in the time of operation,the consumption of propofol during operation and the inci-dence of PONV.Conclusion TEAS is beneficial to prevent the occurrence of EA in pediatric patients un-dergoing SPR,stabilize hemodynamics,reduce the dosage of opioids during surgery,reduce the postopera-tive pain,andaccelerate the time of anesthesia resuscitation.

Objective·To verify the accuracy and clinical feasibility of fluoroscopic stereophotogrammetric analysis(FSA)technology based on two dimension(2D)-three dimension(3D)registration for early migration detection of aseptic loosening of joint prostheses.Methods·2D-3D registration algorithms centering on the light source and projected object respectively in FSA technology were verified under various working conditions through image synthesis experiments,and the feasibility of clinical application was verified through real model experiments.The image synthesis experiment established a perspective projection environment with the same parameters as the real environment in a virtual environment,the 2D perspective images of the 3D model(bone or prosthesis)during the six degrees of freedom transformation were recorded,and the six degrees of freedom transformation of the 3D model was restored by using different 2D-3D registration algorithms.The error of each registration algorithm was calculated.For real model validation,the migration between bone and prosthesis after joint replacement surgery was simulated with a high precision bone prosthesis migration simulator.The 3D model of the bone or prosthesis was reconstructed by using computed tomograph(CT)images and optical scanning,and the 2D perspective images before and after prosthesis migration were captured by using a fluoroscopy device.The migration of the prosthesis was restored by using FSA technology based on 2D-3D registration,and the error of FSA technology was calculated.Results·The accuracy of the 2D-3D registration algorithm centering on the light source was higher than that of the algorithm centering on the projected object under different working conditions.When the initial registration conditions were favorable,the algorithm centering on the light source reduced the rotation error compared to the algorithm centering on the projected object,with a statistical difference(P=0.021),and the displacement error decreases,with a significant statistical difference(P=0.000).Moreover,algorithms centering on the light sources required lower similarity and fewer registration times to meet clinical application requirements.Conclusion·The accuracy of FSA technology based on 2D-3D registration in early migration detection of artificial joint prostheses meets clinical application requirements.This technology can warn of late aseptic loosening of prostheses by detecting early migration of prostheses after joint replacement surgery,and is expected to be applied to clinical practice through further research.

Congenital defects and genetic diseases in the fetus are the focus of prenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis. Obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, medical imaging (ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging), clinical laboratory, pathology, and other disciplines are mostly involved in this multidisciplinary work on maternal and infant health care, which aims to prevent birth defects in strict accordance with laws, regulations, and pertinent industry standards, such as the Notice of the National Health Commission on Issuing the Basic Standards for Prenatal Screening Technical Medical Institutions and the Basic Standards for Prenatal Diagnosis Technical Medical Institutions (Guowei Maternal and Child Letter [2019] No. 297). To further support the implementation of prenatal screening and diagnosis work and streamline workflow, this study has compiled the timing, inspection, and testing procedures of various projects in each link from the standpoint of the disease clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway. This approach improves communication amongst various disciplines in prenatal screening and diagnosis work and offers clinical service quality, and it also helps improve the standard of the birth population and prevent and controll severe birth defects.

Congenital defects and genetic diseases in the fetus are the focus of prenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis. Obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, medical imaging (ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging), clinical laboratory, pathology, and other disciplines are mostly involved in this multidisciplinary work on maternal and infant health care, which aims to prevent birth defects in strict accordance with laws, regulations, and pertinent industry standards, such as the Notice of the National Health Commission on Issuing the Basic Standards for Prenatal Screening Technical Medical Institutions and the Basic Standards for Prenatal Diagnosis Technical Medical Institutions (Guowei Maternal and Child Letter [2019] No. 297). To further support the implementation of prenatal screening and diagnosis work and streamline workflow, this study has compiled the timing, inspection, and testing procedures of various projects in each link from the standpoint of the disease clinical laboratory diagnostic pathway. This approach improves communication amongst various disciplines in prenatal screening and diagnosis work and offers clinical service quality, and it also helps improve the standard of the birth population and prevent and controll severe birth defects.