Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting a substantial proportion of women of reproductive age. It is frequently associated with ovulatory dysfunction, infertility, and an increased risk of chronic metabolic diseases. A hallmark pathological feature of PCOS is the arrest of follicular development, closely linked to impaired intercellular communication between the oocyte and surrounding granulosa cells. Transzonal projections (TZPs) are specialized cytoplasmic extensions derived from granulosa cells that penetrate the zona pellucida to establish direct contact with the oocyte. These structures serve as essential conduits for the transfer of metabolites, signaling molecules (e.g., cAMP, cGMP), and regulatory factors (e.g., microRNAs, growth differentiation factors), thereby maintaining meiotic arrest, facilitating metabolic cooperation, and supporting gene expression regulation in the oocyte. The proper formation and maintenance of TZPs depend on the cytoskeletal integrity of granulosa cells and the regulated expression of key connexins, particularly CX37 and CX43. Recent studies have revealed that in PCOS, TZPs exhibit significant structural and functional abnormalities. Contributing factors—such as hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and dysregulation of critical signaling pathways (including PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β‑catenin, and MAPK/ERK)—collectively impair TZP integrity and reduce their formation. This disruption in granulosa-oocyte communication compromises oocyte quality and contributes to follicular arrest and anovulation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of TZP biology, including their formation mechanisms, molecular composition, and stage-specific dynamics during folliculogenesis. We highlight the pathological alterations in TZPs observed in PCOS and elucidate how endocrine and metabolic disturbances—particularly androgen excess and hyperinsulinemia—downregulate CX43 expression and impair gap junction function, thereby exacerbating ovarian microenvironmental dysfunction. Furthermore, we explore emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving or restoring TZP integrity. Anti-androgen therapies (e.g., spironolactone, flutamide), insulin sensitizers (e.g., metformin), and GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., liraglutide) have shown potential in modulating connexin expression and enhancing granulosa-oocyte communication. In addition, agents such as melatonin, AMPK activators, and GDF9/BMP15 analogs may promote TZP formation and improve oocyte competence. Advanced technologies, including ovarian organoid models and CRISPR-based gene editing, offer promising platforms for studying TZP regulation and developing targeted interventions. In summary, TZPs are indispensable for maintaining follicular homeostasis, and their disruption plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of PCOS-related folliculogenesis failure. Targeting TZP integrity represents a promising therapeutic avenue in PCOS management and warrants further mechanistic and translational investigation.

In recent years, the study of single-cell transcriptome sequencing technology in the heterogeneity of astrocytes (astrocytes) after spinal cord injury (SCI) has provided new perspectives on post-traumatic nerve regeneration and repair. To provide a review on the research progress of single-cell sequencing technology in astrocytes after spinal cord injury (SCI), and to more comprehensively and deeply elaborate the application of single-cell sequencing technology in the field of astrocytes after SCI. Single-cell sequencing technology can analyse the transcriptomes of individual cells in a high-throughput manner, thus revealing fine differences in cell types and states. By using single-cell sequencing technology, the heterogeneity of astrocytes after SCI and their association with nerve regeneration and repair were revealed. In conclusion, the application of single-cell sequencing technology provides an important tool to reveal the heterogeneity of astrocytes after SCI, to further explore the mechanisms of astrocytes in SCI, and to develop intervention strategies targeting their regulatory mechanisms in order to improve the therapeutic efficacy of SCI. The discovery of changes in astrocyte transcriptome dynamics has improved researchers' understanding of spinal cord injury lesion progression and provided new insights into the treatment of spinal cord injury at different time points. To date, all of these findings need to be validated by more basic research and sufficient clinical trials. In the future, single-cell sequencing technology, through interdisciplinary collaboration with bioinformatics, computer science, tissue engineering, and clinical medicine, is expected to open a new window for the treatment of spinal cord injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries/metabolism* ; Astrocytes/cytology* ; Single-Cell Analysis/methods* ; Humans ; Animals ; Transcriptome ; Nerve Regeneration

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) load in different lymphocyte subsets, as well as clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with hematologic malignancies experiencing EBV reactivation. METHODS: Peripheral blood samples from patients were collected. B, T, and NK cells were isolated sorting with magnetic beads by flow cytometry. The EBV load in each subset was quantitated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Clinical data were colleted from electronic medical records. Survival status was followed up through outpatient visits and telephone calls. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 25.0. RESULTS: A total of 39 patients with hematologic malignancies were included, among whom 35 patients had undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The median time to EBV reactivation was 4.8 months (range: 1.7-57.1 months) after allo-HSCT. EBV was detected in B, T, and NK cells in 20 patients, in B and T cells in 11 patients, and only in B cells in 4 patients. In the 35 patients, the median EBV load in B cells was 2.19×10⁴ copies/ml, significantly higher than that in T cells (4.00×10³ copies/ml, P <0.01) and NK cells (2.85×10² copies/ml, P <0.01). Rituximab (RTX) was administered for 32 patients, resulting in EBV negativity in 32 patients with a median time of 8 days (range: 2-39 days). Post-treatment analysis of 13 patients showed EBV were all negative in B, T, and NK cells. In the four non-transplant patients, the median time to EBV reactivation was 35 days (range: 1-328 days) after diagnosis of the primary disease. EBV was detected in one or two subsets of B, T, or NK cells, but not simultaneously in all three subsets. These patients received a combination chemotherapy targeting at the primary disease, with 3 patients achieving EBV negativity, and the median time to be negative was 40 days (range: 13-75 days). CONCLUSION In hematologic malignancy patients after allo-HSCT, EBV reactivation commonly involves B, T, and NK cells, with a significantly higher viral load in B cells compared to T and NK cells. Rituximab is effective for EBV clearance. In non-transplant patients, EBV reactivation is restricted to one or two lymphocyte subsets, and clearance is slower, highlighting the need for prompt anti-tumor therapy.
Humans ; Hematologic Neoplasms/virology* ; Herpesvirus 4, Human/physiology* ; Epstein-Barr Virus Infections ; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation ; Virus Activation ; Lymphocyte Subsets/virology* ; Flow Cytometry ; Killer Cells, Natural/virology* ; Male ; Female ; B-Lymphocytes/virology* ; Viral Load ; Adult ; T-Lymphocytes/virology* ; Middle Aged

Alcohol is a high-risk factor of the head and neck tumor, and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase type 2（ALDH2） is an important alcohol metabolism enzyme in the human body, whose function is to metabolize acetaldehyde into non-toxic acetic acid in the human body. Studies have shown that ALDH2 gene polymorphisms increase the risk of head and neck tumors by affecting enzyme activity to regulate the rate of alcohol metabolism in the body, and high levels of ALDH2 expression are beneficial for enhancing head and neck tumor immunity and improve prognosis. This article aims to review the research progress on the relationship between ALDH2 and the occurrence and treatment of head and neck tumors.
Humans ; Head and Neck Neoplasms/enzymology* ; Aldehyde Dehydrogenase, Mitochondrial/genetics* ; Polymorphism, Genetic

Peri-implant keratinized mucosa (PIKM) augmentation refers to surgical procedures aimed at increasing the width of PIKM. Consensus reports emphasize the necessity of maintaining a minimum width of PIKM to ensure long-term peri-implant health. Currently, several surgical techniques have been validated for their effectiveness in increasing PIKM. However, the selection and application of PIKM augmentation methods may present challenges for dental practitioners due to heterogeneity in surgical techniques, variations in clinical scenarios, and anatomical differences. Therefore, clear guidelines and considerations for PIKM augmentation are needed. This expert consensus focuses on the commonly employed surgical techniques for PIKM augmentation and the factors influencing their selection at second-stage surgery. It aims to establish a standardized framework for assessing, planning, and executing PIKM augmentation procedures, with the goal of offering evidence-based guidance to enhance the predictability and success of PIKM augmentation.
Humans ; Consensus ; Dental Implants ; Mouth Mucosa/surgery* ; Keratins

Avian influenza H10N3 is a type of avian influenza virus that can occasionally infect humans and cause severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). On December 25, 2024, a 23-year-old obese female patient with H10N3 avian influenza complicated with severe ARDS was admitted to the Fourth People's Hospital of Nanning. The patient was transferred to our department due to "fever, cough, and shortness of breath for 13 days". Physical examination revealed moist rales in bilateral lungs. Chest imaging showed large areas of ground-glass opacity and consolidation in both lungs. Based on the patient's medical history, clinical manifestations, and laboratory findings, she was diagnosed with human infection of H10N3 avian influenza, severe pneumonia, and severe ARDS. Supported by mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), daily monitoring of airway peak pressure, plateau pressure (Pplat), driving pressure (ΔP), and lung compliance was performed to guide the adjustment of tidal volume (VT) and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) during invasive mechanical ventilation. Medications including anti-avian influenza virus agents, antibacterial drugs, and antifungals were administered. Eventually, the patient's condition improved gradually, and she was successfully weaned from ECMO. No ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) related to ARDS occurred during ECMO support. However, during the final stage of ventilator weaning after the restoration of spontaneous breathing, a right pneumothorax occurred. Closed thoracic drainage was performed, after which the ventilator was successfully discontinued. The patient was successfully transferred out of the intensive care unit (ICU), recovered fully, and was discharged from the hospital. In the invasive mechanical ventilation management of patients infected with H10N3 avian influenza complicated by ARDS, monitoring airway peak pressure, Pplat, ΔP, and assessing pulmonary compliance may facilitate more standardized management of such ARDS patients and help reduce VILI.
Humans ; Female ; Influenza, Human/complications* ; Respiratory Distress Syndrome/complications* ; Respiration, Artificial/methods* ; Obesity/complications* ; Young Adult ; Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation ; Influenza A virus

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of leech freeze-dried powder combined with scorpion freeze-dried powder on carotid artery thrombosis in rats. METHODS FeCl3 was used to induce carotid artery thrombosis, and the experiment was divided into 6 groups: sham-operated group(sham group), model group, leech freeze-dried powder group(leech group), whole scorpion freeze-dried powder group(scorpion group), leech+scorpion half-dose group(half-dose group), leech+scorpion full-dose group(full-dose group), 6 rats in each group. The inhibition rate of bilateral carotid artery thrombosis was calculated after the final administration. The activated partial thromboplastin time(APTT), plasma prothrombintime(PT), plasma fibrinogen(FIB), and prothrombin time(TT) were measured by platelet aggregation and coagulation factor analyzer. The levels of plasma tissue-type plasminogen activator(t-PA) and plasminogen activatorinhibitor-I(PAI-I) were measured by ELSIA, and the thrombosis of each group was observed by HE staining. RESULTS Compared with model group, the wet weight and dry weight of thrombus were reduced in the leech, scorpion, half-dose and full-dose groups, and the full-dose group had the best effect in inhibiting thrombus formation. Compared with sham group, APTT, PT, TT was shortened, FIB content increased and t-PA level decreased in model group; compared with model group, APTT, PT, TT was prolonged, FIB content decreased and t-PA level increased in each dose group. The PAI-Ⅰ was not significantly different in each group. A large number of thrombus were seen in the blood vessels of model group. Compared with model group, there were significantly fewer thrombus in the leech, scorpion and half-dose groups, and almost no significant thrombus in the full-dose group. CONCLUSION Leech freeze-dried powder combined with scorpion freeze-dried powder inhibited carotid artery thrombosis in rats by affecting coagulation function and fibrinolytic system.

To investigate the differences in methylation levels of cuproptosis related genes in cervical cancer and their effects on clinical prognosis.Methods:The methylation data of 310 cervical tissue specimens were acquired from public databases. The UALCAN database was used to analyze the methylation level differences of 12 cuproptosis-related genes and study their level in different stages or grades of cervical cancer. Genes with statistically significant differences were selected for prognosis analysis using the EWAS datahub. Finally, gene-enrichment analysis, pathway analysis, immune infiltration analysis, the mutation rate and tumor mutation burden (TMB) of the genes in cervical cancer were analyzed using the cBioportal database. Two independent samples rank-sum test was used for differences in methylation levels and immune cell infiltration; comparative analyses of overall survival were performed using KM survival curves and Log-rank two-sided tests. TMB analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon Test for statistical analyses; Pearson correlation analysis was used for assessment in GSEA and pathway analyses.Results:The methylationβvalue of Cyclin Dependent Kinase Inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A gene) in the cervical cancer tissues of patients was 0.075 which was significantly higher than the methylationβvalue of 0.049 in normal human tissues ( P=0.008). Dihydrolipoamide S-Acetyltransferase (DLAT gene) methylation with a β value of 0.102 was significantly higher than normal human tissue methylation with a β value of 0.08 ( P=0.002), and the methylation level β value of Lipoyltransferase 1 (LIPT1 gene) in cervical cancer tissues was 0.06,which was significantly lower than normal human tissue methylation value of 0.092 ( P=0.009). Patients with CDKN2A gene methylation levels≥0.199 had an overall survival of 14.75 years, which was lower than that of patients with methylation levels<0.199 (17.56 years) ( P=0.034).The results of gene enrichment analysis indicated that it mainly involves biological processes such as the response to type I interferon and DNA replication. The expression of CDKN2A gene is positively correlated with the number of neutrophils and dendritic cells in the tumor microenvironment( P<0.05), and negatively correlated with the number ofmacrophages( P<0.05). TMB was higher in the group of variants of the CDKN2A gene than in the group of non-variants ( P=0.019). Conclusion:CDKN2A methylation is a potential biomarker for predicting the prognosis of cervical cancer.

Objective To analyze the pharmacodynamic interaction of esketamine and propofol in hysteroscopic surgery by response surface method.Methods Forty-five patients underwent elective hystero-scopic surgery,aged 18.5-64.0 years,BMI 18.5-28.0 kg/m2,ASA physical status Ⅰ or Ⅱ.Compound propofol target control infusion of esketamine(0,0.1,0.2,0.3,0.4,0.5,0.6,0.7,and 0.8 μg/ml)with different plasma drug concentrations were selected to keep the plasma drug concentration of esketamine unchanged,and the plasma drug concentration of propofol was increased step by step.To evaluate body re-sponse caused by dilation of the cervix.A response surface model was used to analyze the pharmacodynamic interaction of esketamine and propofol.Results The three-dimensional response surface of esketamine(0.0-0.8 μg/ml)and propofol(1.0-7.0 μg/ml)showed that the two have an additive effect in sedation and inhibition of body activity reaction caused by dilated cervix.The median effective concentration(EC50)of esketamine was 0.61 μg/ml(95％CI 0.41-0.81 μg/ml),and the EC50 of propofol was 4.69 μg/ml(95％CI 3.17-6.21 μg/ml)when inhibits the body activity reaction caused by dilated cervix.Conclusion Response surface method can qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the pharmacodynamic interaction of es-ketamine and propofol.Esketamine and propofol have additive effects in inhibiting the body activity reaction caused by dilated cervix.

Objective To investigate the effects of Anmian Dan on neurotransmitters in the brain of model rats,which were sleep deprived by multi-platform water environment.Methods Fifty SD rats were randomly and evenly divided into 5 groups with 10 rats in each group,which were blank control group(Control group),Model group(Model group),Estazolam group(Estazolam group),low dose group(AMD-L group)and high dose group(AMD-H group).The rats were subjected to sleep deprivation in a multi-platform water environment for 20 hours per day for 21 days.The movement distance and movement time of rats at different time points were recorded by autonomous activity analyzer to evaluate the changes of autonomous activity.The contents of glutamic acid(Glu)and gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)were detected by ELISA,and the mRNA expression levels of NDRG2,GLT-1,GAD65 and GAD67 were detected by Real-time PCR.Western blot was used to detect the expressions of NDRG2,p-PI3K,p-Akt,GLT-1,GAD65 and GAD67.Results The Model group was more active than the Control group,and the concentration of GABA in the cortex of the Model group was decreased and the concentration of Glu was increased.The mrna and protein expression levels of NDRG2 in Model group were higher than those in Control group(P<0.01),but the mrna and protein expression levels of GLT-1,GAD65 and GAD67 in model group were lower than those in Control group(P<0.01).The protein expression levels of P-PI3K and P-AKT in the cortex of model group were significantly decreased(P<0.01).Compared with Model group,Anmeidan could reduce the autonomic activity of sleep deprived rats,increase the concentration of GABA,decrease the concentration of Glu in cortex(P<0.05),and increase the mrna relative expression levels and protein expression levels of GLT-1,GAD65 and GAD67(P<0.05).The expression levels of P-PI3K and P-Akt were increased(P<0.01),and mrna and protein expression levels of NDRG2 were decreased(P<0.01).Conclusion Anmian Dan may regulate the activity of astrocytes and affect the levels of neurotransmitters GABA and GLU in the brain through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway,thus playing a role in improving the circadian rhythm disturbance in sleep-deprived rats.