1.Establishment and validation of a risk prediction model for 90-day mortality in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure based on sarcopenia
Huina CHEN ; Ming KONG ; Siqi ZHANG ; Manman XU ; Yu CHEN ; Zhongping DUAN
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2025;41(6):1135-1142
ObjectiveTo establish and validate a new prediction model for the risk of death in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) based on sarcopenia and other clinical indicators, and to improve the accuracy of prognostic assessment for ACLF patients. MethodsA total of 380 patients with ACLF who were admitted to Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, from January 2019 to January 2022 were enrolled, and they were divided into training group with 228 patients and testing group with 152 patients in a ratio of 6∶4 using the stratified random sampling method. For the training group, CT images were used to measure the cross-sectional area of the skeletal muscle at the third lumbar vertebra (L3), and L3 skeletal muscle index (L3-SMI) was calculated. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the previously established L3-SMI reference values for healthy adults in northern China. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to establish a sarcopenia-ACLF model which integrated sarcopenia and clinical risk factors, and a nomogram was developed for presentation. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was used to assess the predictive performance of the model, the calibration curve was used to assess the degree of calibration, and a decision curve analysis was used to investigate the clinical application value of the model. The independent-samples t test or the Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of continuous data between two groups, and the chi-square test was used for comparison of categorical data between two groups. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to plot survival curves, and the Log-rank test was used for comparison between groups. The DeLong test was used for comparison of AUC between different models. ResultsThe multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that sarcopenia (hazard ratio [HR]=1.962, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.185 — 3.250, P=0.009), total bilirubin (HR=1.003, 95%CI: 1.002 — 1.005, P<0.001), international normalized ratio (HR=1.997, 95%CI: 1.674 — 2.382, P<0.001), and lactic acid (HR=1.382, 95%CI: 1.170 — 1.632, P<0.001) were included in the sarcopenia-ACLF model. In the training cohort, the sarcopenia-ACLF model had a larger AUC than MELD-Na score in predicting 90-day mortality in patients with ACLF (0.80 vs 0.73, Z=1.97, P=0.049). In the test cohort, the sarcopenia-ACLF model had a significantly larger AUC than MELD score (0.79 vs 0.69, Z=2.70, P=0.007) and MELD-Na score (0.79 vs 0.68, Z=2.92, P=0.004). The calibration curve showed that the model had good calibration ability, with a relatively good consistency between the predicted risk of mortality and the observed results. The DCA results showed that within a reasonable range of threshold probabilities, the sarcopenia-ACLF model showed a greater net benefit than MELD and MELD-Na scores in both the training cohort and the test cohort. ConclusionThe sarcopenia-ACLF model developed in this study provides a more accurate tool for predicting the risk of 90-day mortality in ACLF patients, which provides support for clinical decision-making and helps to optimize treatment strategies.
2.Interplay Between Interferon Stimulatory Pathways and Organellar Dynamics
Jin-Ru LI ; Yu DUAN ; Xin-Gui DAI ; Yong-Ming YAO
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(7):1708-1727
Interferon stimulating factor STING, a transmembrane protein residing in the endoplasmic reticulum, is extensively involved in the sensing and transduction of intracellular signals and serves as a crucial component of the innate immune system. STING is capable of directly or indirectly responding to abnormal DNA originating from diverse sources within the cytoplasm, thereby fulfilling its classical antiviral and antitumor functions. Structurally, STING is composed of 4 transmembrane helices, a cytoplasmic ligand binding domain (LBD), and a C terminal tail structure (CTT). The transmembrane domain (TM), which is formed by the transmembrane helical structures, anchors STING to the endoplasmic reticulum, while the LBD is in charge of binding to cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs). The classical second messenger, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP), represents a key upstream molecule for STING activation. Once cGAMP binds to LBD, STING experiences conformational alterations, which subsequently lead to the recruitment of Tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) via the CTT domain. This, in turn, mediates interferon secretion and promotes the activation and migration of dendritic cells, T cells, and natural killer cells. Additionally, STING is able to activate nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), thereby initiating the synthesis and release of inflammatory factors and augmenting the body’s immune response. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have disclosed the non-classical functions of STING. It has been found that STING plays a significant role in organelle regulation. STING is not only implicated in the quality control systems of organelles such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum but also modulates the functions of these organelles. For instance, STING can influence key aspects of organelle quality control, including mitochondrial fission and fusion, mitophagy, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. This regulatory effect is not unidirectional; rather, it is subject to organelle feedback regulation, thereby forming a complex interaction network. STING also exerts a monitoring function on the nucleus and ribosomes, which further enhances the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in infection-related immunity. The interaction mechanism between STING and organelles is highly intricate, which, within a certain range, enhances the cells’ capacity to respond to external stimuli and survival pressure. However, once the balance of this interaction is disrupted, it may result in the occurrence and development of inflammatory diseases, such as aseptic inflammation and autoimmune diseases. Excessive activation or malfunction of STING may trigger an over-exuberant inflammatory response, which subsequently leads to tissue damage and pathological states. This review recapitulates the recent interactions between STING and diverse organelles, encompassing its multifarious functions in antiviral, antitumor, organelle regulation, and immune regulation. These investigations not only deepen the comprehension of molecular mechanisms underlying STING but also offer novel concepts for the exploration of human disease pathogenesis and the development of potential treatment strategies. In the future, with further probing into STING function and its regulatory mechanisms, it is anticipated to pioneer new approaches for the treatment of complex diseases such as inflammatory diseases and tumors.
3.Progress and challenges of functionalized bacterial encapsulation: A novel biotechnology for next-generation biotherapeutics.
Ying ZHANG ; Yuwei WU ; Xinyu ZHAO ; Qinghua YE ; Lulu CAO ; Ming LIU ; Bao GAO ; Qinya NIU ; Nuo CHEN ; Zixuan DUAN ; Yu DING ; Juan WANG ; Moutong CHEN ; Ying LI ; Qingping WU
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2025;15(10):5167-5191
The disturbance of the human microbiota influences the occurrence and progression of many diseases. Live therapeutic bacteria, with their genetic manipulability, anaerobic tendencies, and immunomodulatory properties, are emerging as promising therapeutic agents. However, their clinical applications face challenges in maintaining activity and achieving precise spatiotemporal release, particularly in the harsh gastrointestinal environment. This review highlights the innovative bacterial functionalized encapsulation strategies developed through advances in physicochemical and biological techniques. We comprehensively review how bacterial encapsulation strategies can be used to provide physical barriers and enhanced adhesion properties to live microorganisms, while introducing superior material properties to live bacteria. In addition, this review outlines how bacterial surface coating can facilitate targeted delivery and precise spatiotemporal release of live bacteria. Furthermore, it elucidates their potential applications for treating different diseases, along with critical perspectives on challenges in clinical translation. This review comprehensively analyzes the connection between functionalized bacterial encapsulation and innovative biomedical applications, providing a theoretical reference for the development of next-generation bacterial therapies.
4.Quantitative diagnosis of early acute compartment syndrome using two-dimensional shear wave elastography in a rabbit model
Jun ZHANG ; Kunlong DUAN ; Junci WEI ; Wanfu ZHANG ; Huihui ZHOU ; Lin SANG ; Yuanyuan SUN ; Xue GONG ; Hao GUAN ; Ming YU
Ultrasonography 2024;43(5):345-353
Purpose:
This study explored the association of the elasticity modulus and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the tibialis anterior muscle, as measured by two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), with the intracompartmental pressure (ICP) determined using the Whitesides method in a New Zealand rabbit model of acute compartment syndrome (ACS). Additionally, it evaluated the viability of 2D-SWE as a noninvasive, quantitative tool for the early detection of ACS.
Methods:
An ACS model was established through direct external compression by applying pressure bandaging to the lower legs of 15 New Zealand rabbits using neonatal blood pressure cuffs. Another five animals represented a non-modeled control group. To measure the elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscles, 2D-SWE was employed. Blood oxygen saturation, serum creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin levels were monitored. Subsequently, the anterior tibial compartment was dissected, and the tibialis anterior was removed for hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess muscle injury.
Results:
The elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscle increased with compression duration, as did serum CK and myoglobin levels. ICP was strongly positively correlated with these parameters, particularly mean velocity (r=0.942, P<0.001) and CK (r=0.942, P<0.001). Blood oxygen saturation was negatively correlated with ICP (r=-0.887, P<0.001). Histological analysis indicated progressive muscle cell swelling over time, with damage transitioning from reversible to irreversible and culminating in necrosis.
Conclusion
In a rabbit ACS model, ICP was strongly positively correlated with muscle elasticity modulus/SWV. Consequently, 2D-SWE may represent a novel tool for assessing early-phase ACS.
5.Quantitative diagnosis of early acute compartment syndrome using two-dimensional shear wave elastography in a rabbit model
Jun ZHANG ; Kunlong DUAN ; Junci WEI ; Wanfu ZHANG ; Huihui ZHOU ; Lin SANG ; Yuanyuan SUN ; Xue GONG ; Hao GUAN ; Ming YU
Ultrasonography 2024;43(5):345-353
Purpose:
This study explored the association of the elasticity modulus and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the tibialis anterior muscle, as measured by two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), with the intracompartmental pressure (ICP) determined using the Whitesides method in a New Zealand rabbit model of acute compartment syndrome (ACS). Additionally, it evaluated the viability of 2D-SWE as a noninvasive, quantitative tool for the early detection of ACS.
Methods:
An ACS model was established through direct external compression by applying pressure bandaging to the lower legs of 15 New Zealand rabbits using neonatal blood pressure cuffs. Another five animals represented a non-modeled control group. To measure the elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscles, 2D-SWE was employed. Blood oxygen saturation, serum creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin levels were monitored. Subsequently, the anterior tibial compartment was dissected, and the tibialis anterior was removed for hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess muscle injury.
Results:
The elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscle increased with compression duration, as did serum CK and myoglobin levels. ICP was strongly positively correlated with these parameters, particularly mean velocity (r=0.942, P<0.001) and CK (r=0.942, P<0.001). Blood oxygen saturation was negatively correlated with ICP (r=-0.887, P<0.001). Histological analysis indicated progressive muscle cell swelling over time, with damage transitioning from reversible to irreversible and culminating in necrosis.
Conclusion
In a rabbit ACS model, ICP was strongly positively correlated with muscle elasticity modulus/SWV. Consequently, 2D-SWE may represent a novel tool for assessing early-phase ACS.
6.Quantitative diagnosis of early acute compartment syndrome using two-dimensional shear wave elastography in a rabbit model
Jun ZHANG ; Kunlong DUAN ; Junci WEI ; Wanfu ZHANG ; Huihui ZHOU ; Lin SANG ; Yuanyuan SUN ; Xue GONG ; Hao GUAN ; Ming YU
Ultrasonography 2024;43(5):345-353
Purpose:
This study explored the association of the elasticity modulus and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the tibialis anterior muscle, as measured by two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), with the intracompartmental pressure (ICP) determined using the Whitesides method in a New Zealand rabbit model of acute compartment syndrome (ACS). Additionally, it evaluated the viability of 2D-SWE as a noninvasive, quantitative tool for the early detection of ACS.
Methods:
An ACS model was established through direct external compression by applying pressure bandaging to the lower legs of 15 New Zealand rabbits using neonatal blood pressure cuffs. Another five animals represented a non-modeled control group. To measure the elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscles, 2D-SWE was employed. Blood oxygen saturation, serum creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin levels were monitored. Subsequently, the anterior tibial compartment was dissected, and the tibialis anterior was removed for hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess muscle injury.
Results:
The elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscle increased with compression duration, as did serum CK and myoglobin levels. ICP was strongly positively correlated with these parameters, particularly mean velocity (r=0.942, P<0.001) and CK (r=0.942, P<0.001). Blood oxygen saturation was negatively correlated with ICP (r=-0.887, P<0.001). Histological analysis indicated progressive muscle cell swelling over time, with damage transitioning from reversible to irreversible and culminating in necrosis.
Conclusion
In a rabbit ACS model, ICP was strongly positively correlated with muscle elasticity modulus/SWV. Consequently, 2D-SWE may represent a novel tool for assessing early-phase ACS.
7.Quantitative diagnosis of early acute compartment syndrome using two-dimensional shear wave elastography in a rabbit model
Jun ZHANG ; Kunlong DUAN ; Junci WEI ; Wanfu ZHANG ; Huihui ZHOU ; Lin SANG ; Yuanyuan SUN ; Xue GONG ; Hao GUAN ; Ming YU
Ultrasonography 2024;43(5):345-353
Purpose:
This study explored the association of the elasticity modulus and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the tibialis anterior muscle, as measured by two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE), with the intracompartmental pressure (ICP) determined using the Whitesides method in a New Zealand rabbit model of acute compartment syndrome (ACS). Additionally, it evaluated the viability of 2D-SWE as a noninvasive, quantitative tool for the early detection of ACS.
Methods:
An ACS model was established through direct external compression by applying pressure bandaging to the lower legs of 15 New Zealand rabbits using neonatal blood pressure cuffs. Another five animals represented a non-modeled control group. To measure the elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscles, 2D-SWE was employed. Blood oxygen saturation, serum creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin levels were monitored. Subsequently, the anterior tibial compartment was dissected, and the tibialis anterior was removed for hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess muscle injury.
Results:
The elasticity modulus and SWV of the tibialis anterior muscle increased with compression duration, as did serum CK and myoglobin levels. ICP was strongly positively correlated with these parameters, particularly mean velocity (r=0.942, P<0.001) and CK (r=0.942, P<0.001). Blood oxygen saturation was negatively correlated with ICP (r=-0.887, P<0.001). Histological analysis indicated progressive muscle cell swelling over time, with damage transitioning from reversible to irreversible and culminating in necrosis.
Conclusion
In a rabbit ACS model, ICP was strongly positively correlated with muscle elasticity modulus/SWV. Consequently, 2D-SWE may represent a novel tool for assessing early-phase ACS.
8.Neurodevelopment and cerebral blood flow in children aged 2-6 years with autism spectrum disorder
Jia-Bao YIN ; Gan-Yu WANG ; Gui-Qin DUAN ; Wen-Hao NIE ; Ming-Fang ZHAO ; Ting-Ting JIN
Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics 2024;26(6):599-604
Objective To investigate the neurodevelopmental characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),analyze the correlation between neurodevelopmental indicators and cerebral blood flow(CBF),and explore the potential mechanisms of neurodevelopment in ASD children.Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 145 children aged 2-6 years with newly-diagnosed ASD.Scores from the Gesell Developmental Diagnosis Scale and the Autism Behavior Checklist(ABC)and CBF results were collected to compare gender differences in the development of children with ASD and analyze the correlation between CBF and neurodevelopmental indicators.Results Fine motor and personal-social development quotient in boys with ASD were lower than those in girls with ASD(P<0.05).Gross motor development quotient in ASD children was negatively correlated with CBF in the left frontal lobe(r=-0.200,P=0.016),right frontal lobe(r=-0.279,P=0.001),left parietal lobe(r=-0.208,P=0.012),and right parietal lobe(r=-0.187,P=0.025).The total ABC score was positively correlated with CBF in the left amygdala(r=0.295,P<0.001).Conclusions Early intervention training should pay attention to gender and developmental structural characteristics for precise intervention in ASD children.CBF has the potential to become a biological marker for assessing the severity of ASD.
9.The structure,function and regulation mechanism of Vibrio fluvialis Type Ⅵ secretion system
Yu HAN ; Sai-Sen JI ; Qian CHENG ; Yuan-Ming HUANG ; Ran DUAN ; Wei-Li LIANG
Chinese Journal of Zoonoses 2024;40(6):571-577
Type Ⅵ secretion system(T6SS)is a lethal weapon that releases effectors in direct contact to kill eukaryotic predators or prokaryotic competitors.T6SS is of great significance in bacterial environmental adaptability,pathogenicity,and gene horizontal transfer.T6SS has been identified in about 25%of Gram-negative bacteria.Because of its widespread existence,T6SS is considered the key factor of ecological competition.T6SS effectors exerting biological functions have high diversity and do not have conserved sequences,and the regulatory mechanisms involved are complex.Therefore,it is a hot and difficult topic in T6SS research.Vibrio fluvialis(V.fluvialis)as a newly emerging foodborne pathogen,has unique characteristics in the quantity,composition,and physiological function of T6SS,which is related to its wide environmental adaptability and pathoge-nicity.This article mainly reviews the research progress of V.fluvialis T6SS,including its composition,structure,functional activity,and regulatory mechanism.
10.Simultaneou determination of twenty-eight constituents in Dayuan Drink by UPLC-MS/MS
Yu-Jie HOU ; Xin-Jun ZHANG ; Ming SU ; Xin-Rui LI ; Yue-Cheng LIU ; Yu-Qing WANG ; Dan-Dan SUN ; Hui ZHANG ; Kang-Ning XIAO ; Long-Yun DUAN ; Lei CAO ; Zhen-Yu XUAN ; Shan-Xin LIU
Chinese Traditional Patent Medicine 2024;46(11):3545-3552
AIM To establish a UPLC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous content determination of gallic acid,protocatechuic acid,neomangiferin,catechin,caffeic acid,mangiferin,isomangiferin,albiflorin,paeoniflorin,vitexin,liquiritin,scutellarin,baicalin,liquiritigenin,timosaponin BⅡ,quercetin,wogonoside,benzoylpaeoniflorin,isoliquiritigenin,honokiol,magnolol,norarecaidine,arecaidine,arecoline,epicatechin,baicalein,glycyrrhizinate and wogonin in Dayuan Drink.METHODS The analysis was performed on a 35℃thermostatic Syncronis C18 column(100 mm×2.1 mm,1.7 μm),with the mobile phase comprising of 0.1%formic acid-acetonitrile flowing at 0.3 mL/min in a gradient elution manner,and electron spray inoization source was adopted in positive and negative ion scanning with select reaction monitoring mode.RESULTS Twenty-eight constituents showed good linear relationships within their own ranges(R2≥0.991 0),whose average recoveries were 95.60%-103.53%with the RSDs of 0.60%-5.45%.CONCLUSION This rapid,simple,selective,accurate and reliable method can be used for the quality control of Dayuan Drink.

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