1.Zuoguiwan Mitigates Oxidative Stress in Rat Model of Hyperthyroidism Due to Kidney-Yin Deficiency via DRD4/NOX4 Pathway
Ling LIN ; Qianming LIANG ; Changsheng DENG ; Li RU ; Zhiyong XU ; Chao LI ; Mingshun SHEN ; Yueming YUAN ; Muzi LI ; Lei YANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(2):43-51
ObjectiveTo decipher the mechanism by which Zuoguiwan (ZGW) treat hyperthyroidism in rats with kidney-Yin deficiency based on the dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4)/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 4 (NOX4) signaling pathway. MethodsThe rat model of kidney-Yin deficiency was induced by unilateral intramuscular injection of dexamethasone (0.35 mg·kg-1). After successful modeling, the rats were randomized into model, methimazole (positive control, 5 mg·kg-1), low-, medium-, and high-dose (1.85, 3.70, 7.40 g·kg-1, respectively) ZGW, and normal control groups. After 21 days of continuous gavage, the behavioral indexes and body weight changes of rats were evaluated. The pathological changes of the renal tissue were observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The serum levels of thyroid hormones [triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)], renal function indexes [serum creatine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)], energy metabolism markers [cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)], and oxidative stress-related factors [superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and NADPH)] were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot was employed to analyze the expression of DRD4, NOX4, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex proteins [NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit S4 (NDUFS4) and cytochrome C oxidase subunit 4 (COX4)], and inflammation-related protein [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)] pathway in the renal tissue. ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed mental malaise, body weight decreases (P<0.01), inflammatory cell infiltration in the renal tissue, a few residual parotid glands in the thyroid, elevations in serum levels of T3, T4, Scr, BUN, cAMP, cAMP/cGMP, MDA, and NADPH (P<0.01), down-regulation in protein levels of TSH, SOD, and DRD4 (P<0.05, P<0.01), and up-regulation in expression of NOX4, p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK, and inflammatory factors (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, ZGW increased the body weight (P<0.05, P<0.01), reduced the infiltration of renal interstitial inflammatory cells, restored the thyroid structure and follicle size, lowered the serum levels of T3, T4, Scr, BUN, cAMP, cAMP/cGMP, MDA and NADPH (P<0.05, P<0.01), up-regulated the expression of TSH, SOD and DRD4 (P<0.05, P<0.01), and down-regulated the expression of NOX4, p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK, and inflammatory factors (P<0.05, P<0.01). Moreover, high-dose ZGW outperformed methimazole (P<0.05). ConclusionBy activating DRD4, ZGW can inhibit the expression of NOX4 mediated by the p38 MAPK pathway, reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory response, thereby ameliorating the pathological state of hyperthyroidism due to kidney-Yin deficiency. This study provides new molecular mechanism support for the clinical application of ZGW.
2.Effect of dual task training on mobility and balance in stroke patients: a meta-analysis
Yiyi YUAN ; Wuchao TIAN ; Xianbin ZHANG ; Qiang CHAO ; Yongsheng LI ; Guixin LIU ; Wanqing WU ; Pu WANG
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice 2026;32(7):807-816
ObjectiveTo systematically review the effect of dual-task training (DTT) on mobility and balance in stroke patients. MethodsCNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) on DTT in stroke rehabilitation from inception to June, 2025. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the PEDro scale. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4. ResultsA total of eleven RCT involving 517 stroke patients were included, and the scores of PEDro scale were four to eight. DTT was more effective on the score of Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremity (MD = 3.70, 95%CI 1.88 to 5.53, P < 0.001) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) (MD = 3.04, 95%CI 1.58 to 4.49, P < 0.001), fall incidence (OR = 0.32, 95%CI 0.11 to 0.87, P = 0.025), gait speed under a single-task condition (MD = 0.08, 95%CI 0.03 to 0.12, P = 0.002), gait speed under a dual-task condition (MD = 0.13, 95%CI 0.10 to 0.16, P < 0.001), Timed Up and Go Test time (MD = -2.78, 95%CI -3.85 to -1.72, P < 0.001), and score of modified Barthel Index (MD = 4.77, 95%CI 1.88 to 7.66, P = 0.001). Subgroup analysis indicated that motor-motor DTT was more effective than cognitive-motor DTT on BBS scores and single-task gait speed. ConclusionsDTT can improve mobility and balance in stroke patients, especially with motor-motor tasks.
4.Cage design-centric glider approach to full-endoscopic lumbar fusion: optimizing nerve root protection in facet-sparing and facet-resecting techniques
Yu-Chia HSU ; Hao-Chun CHUANG ; Yuan-Fu LIU ; Chao-Jui CHANG ; Yu-Meng HSIAO ; Yi-Hung HUANG ; Keng-Chang LIU ; Chien-Min CHEN ; Hyeun-Sung KIM ; Cheng-Li LIN
Asian Spine Journal 2026;20(2):343-353
Endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) offers substantial advantages in the management of degenerative spinal diseases, including accelerated postoperative recovery. However, its technical complexity and steep learning curve pose risks for nerve root injury. Optimizing nerve root protection in full-endoscopic facet-sparing TLIF (FE fs-TLIF) and full-endoscopic facet-resecting TLIF (FE fr-TLIF) is essential for enhancing surgical safety. This study aimed to improve the nerve root protection in FE fs-TLIF and FE fr-TLIF by optimizing cage glider selection and insertion techniques based on the specific cage shape—banana-shaped or bullet-shaped. The goal was to ensure safe cage positioning and mitigate nerve root injury during discectomy, endplate preparation, and cage insertion. These strategies were validated through cadaveric simulations and clinical implementation. In FE fr-TLIF utilizing bullet-shaped (straight) cages, one-tip and two-tip cage gliders effectively protected the traversing nerve root by facilitating medial cage entry, thereby minimizing irritation of the exiting nerve root. Conversely, in FE fr-TLIF with banana-shaped cages, the lateral tilt of the cage holder during implantation required the use of a two-tip cage glider to protect the traversing and exiting nerve roots, thereby mitigating the potential risk of nerve irritation. In FE fs-TLIF, a one-tip cage glider is preferred for safeguarding the exiting nerve root, while the traversing root is inherently protected by the medial wall of the facet joint. The use of a two-tip cage glider in FE fs-TLIF can cause injury to the nerve root during glider insertion. In addition to the selection of cage gliders, improper cage insertion steps can also contribute to postoperative neurapraxia. The appropriate selection of cage gliders with corresponding insertion techniques is critical for nerve root protection in endoscopic TLIF. Tailoring these choices to the specific approach (FE fs-TLIF or FE fr-TLIF) and cage type (banana or bullet) enhances surgical safety and clinical outcomes.
5.Divergent Small Vessel Disease Burden in Warfarin-Associated and Direct Oral Anticoagulant-Associated Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Sung-Chun TANG ; Ya-Fang CHEN ; Chih-Hao CHEN ; Ching-Hua KUO ; Yuan-Chang CHAO ; Yu-Fong PENG ; Shu-Wen LIN ; Shin-Yi LIN ; Jiann-Shing JENG
Journal of Stroke 2026;28(2):334-338
6.Human placental mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes carrying hsa-let-7i-5p mitigate lung injury in a murine model of aspiration pneumonia
Ching-Wei CHUANG ; Hong-Phuc Nguyen VO ; Yen-Hua HUANG ; I-Lin TSAI ; Chao-Yuan CHANG ; Chun-Jen HUANG
Korean Journal of Anesthesiology 2026;79(1):114-129
Background:
Aspiration pneumonia (AP), which can be caused by gastric content inhalation into the lower airways, causes acute lung injury (ALI) through complex mechanisms, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of exosomes derived from human placental mesenchymal stem cells (hpMSCs) in mitigating ALI in a murine model of AP. We also investigated the role of hsa-let-7i-5p, the most abundant miRNA in hpMSC-derived exosomes, in this respect.
Methods:
Adult male C57BL/6 mouse AP models were administered hpMSC-derived exosomes (APExo group) or phosphate-buffered saline (AP group) intra-tracheally. After 48 h, the mice were euthanized and evaluated. The effects of hsa-let-7i-5p were assessed by specific inhibition or overexpression.
Results:
Compared with the APExo group, the AP group exhibited significantly greater ALI, as evidenced by histological damage, increased lung injury scores, impaired lung function, increased leukocyte infiltration, and elevated tissue edema (all P < 0.05). The untreated AP group also showed more inflammation, characterized by nuclear factor-κB upregulation, macrophage M1 polarization, and cytokine level elevation (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6), as well as increased oxidation and activation of the apoptosis pathway (all P < 0.05). Notably, the therapeutic effects of hpMSC-derived exosomes were compromised by specific inhibition of hsa-let-7i-5p. Furthermore, engineered exosomes derived from genetically modified RAW264.7 overexpressing hsa-let-7i-5p demonstrated therapeutic effects against AP similar to those obtained with hpMSC-derived exosomes.
Conclusions
In a murine AP model, intra-tracheal administration of hpMSC-derived exosomes has ALI-mitigating effects, involving inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis modulation, with hsa-let-7i-5p playing a pivotal mediating role.
7.Complete chloroplast genomes and phylogenetic analysis of 7 Murraya species in China
Ziyuan CHEN ; Yan JIN ; Yuyang ZHAO ; Chao JIANG ; Yuan YUAN
Science of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;4(1):62-72
Background: Murraya, a genus of shrubs and trees in the Rutaceae family, consists of approximately 9 species in China with significant medicinal and horticultural value. However, the phylogeny and taxonomy of Murraya species remain controversial, particularly with respect to Murraya exotica and M. paniculata. Objective: This study aimed to provide insights into the taxonomy, phylogeny, and identification of Murraya. Methods: In this study, the chloroplast (CP) genomes of 7 Murraya species were sequenced, assembled, and subjected to comparative and phylogenetic analyses. Results: The CP genomes of Murraya ranged from 158,573 to 160,817 bp in length and encoded 112 unique genes, including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Similar to other angiosperms, the inverted repeat regions of the CP genomes exhibited lower sequence divergence than the single-copy regions, and coding regions were more conserved than noncoding regions. Comparative analysis identified several highly variable regions (eg, matK, ycf1, ndhI-ndhA, trnH-GUG-psbA, rpl32-trnL) that could serve as molecular markers for species identification in Murraya. Among these, the ycf1 gene was validated as a useful marker for distinguishing M. exotica from M. paniculata. Positive selection was detected in 10 genes, including rbcL, psaJ, ndhD, ndhF, rpl2, rpl20, ycf1, accD, ccsA, and rpl32. Phylogenetic analysis based on CP genomes supported the recognition of M. exotica and M. paniculata as independent species. Moreover, the phylogenetic trees indicated that Murraya is not monophyletic, with sect. Bergera showing a closer relationship to Clausena. Molecular dating results suggested that the diversification of M. paniculata, M. alata, and M. exotica occurred approximately 9.11 Mya (95% highest posterior density: 4.90-13.87 Mya). Conclusion: These findings provide valuable CP genome data for clarifying the phylogenetic relationships between M. exotica and M. paniculata, and for advancing the study of DNA markers and the evolutionary history of Murraya.
8.Research on Construction of Medical Insurance Fund Supervision Index System under CHS-DRG Payment
Yang LI ; Zhe WANG ; Linghan SHAN ; Yuan MA ; Wen CHE ; Chao LIANG ; Zijun LIANG ; Lijun CUI ; Liang WANG
Chinese Hospital Management 2025;45(10):65-68
Objective To screen out the indexes of medical insurance fund under China Healthcare Security Diagno-sis Related Groups(CHS-DRG)payment based on Delphi method and improve the efficiency of medical insurance fund supervision.Methods Using the Delphi method,32 experts in the medical insurance field were selected and 2 rounds of expert questionnaires were conducted to design an evaluation scale for the monitoring indicators of medi-cal insurance funds under CHS-DRG payment.The consultation results were evaluated from three aspects of motiva-tion,authority,and coordination.Results A medical insurance fund supervision index system based on three dimen-sions of medical insurance fund use quality,efficiency and safety supervision is constructed,including 3 first-level indicators,7 second-level indicators and 44 third-level indicators.Results The construction ofmedical insurance fund supervision index system under CHS-DRG payment should respect the actual clinical diagnosis and treatment,strengthen the intelligent supervision method,and timely intervene in medical insurance fund management risks.
9.Clinical management and outcomes of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants <32 weeks′ gestation from the Chinese Neonatal Network from 2019 to 2023
Yue HE ; Xiao CHEN ; Lijiao ZU ; Zhicheng ZHU ; Jieru SHEN ; Jie YANG ; Siyuan JIANG ; Jianguo ZHOU ; Chao CHEN ; Lin YUAN
Chinese Journal of Pediatrics 2025;63(8):870-878
Objective:To analyze the current status and trends in the clinical management and outcomes of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants <32 weeks′ gestation admitted to the Chinese Neonatal Network (CHNN) from 2019 to 2023.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2024 to January 2025 using the CHNN cohort of very preterm and extremely preterm infants. A total of 30 869 RDS infants with gestational age <32 weeks were admitted within 1 day after birth to CHNN centers from 2019 to 2023. Data on demographics, perinatal management, early complications within 7 days of age, and in-hospital outcomes were collected. Yearly groups were defined by admission year. Trends by year were evaluated by Cochran-Armitage trend test, linear regression model and median regression model.Results:The gestational age at birth of 30 869 RDS infant was 28.9 (27.1, 30.7) weeks and the birth weight was 1 259 (932, 1 586) g. Males account for 56.5% (17 363/30 757). From 2019 to 2023, the prevalence of RDS was 73.8% (5 503/7 461), 74.5% (5 490/7 368), 79.8% (5 884/7 372), 81.6% (6 435/7 889), and 86.0% (7 557/8 789), respectively, showing an increasing trend year by year ( P<0.001). The overall rate of pulmonary surfactant administration was 72.4% (22 359/30 869), fluctuating between 71.2% (5 381/7 557) and 74.3% (4 089/5 503) over the 5-year period. Antenatal corticosteroids were administered to 82.3% (24 357/29 597) mothers of RDS infants and 23.6% (7 218/30 565) RDS infants received noninvasive positive end-expiratory pressure support in the delivery room, both showing a increasing trend over the 5 years (both P<0.001). The incidence of pneumothorax and the use rate of inhaled nitric oxide within 7 days of age were 1.3% (393/30 846) and 1.4% (436/30 869), respectively, both showing increasing trends over the 5 years (both P<0.001). The rate of complete course of antenatal corticosteroids administration was 64.6% (14 458/22 382), the rates of discharge against medical advice and mortality within 7 days of age were 5.3% (1 635/30 869) and 2.7% (724/26 803), respectively, all showing a decreasing trend over time (all P<0.05). Regarding in-hospital outcomes, mortality rate of RDS infants was 4.6% (1 228/26 803), showing a downward trend year by year ( P=0.005). The incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was 35.0% (9 417/26 919), and the combined incidence of death or BPD was 36.4% (9 763/26 803), both showing an increasing trend year by year (both P<0.001). Conclusions:RDS prevalence increased annually in preterm infants <32 weeks′ gestation from 2019 to 2023, with declining mortality but rising BPD rates. While antenatal steroid use and noninvasive positive end-expiratory pressure support application improved, full-course antenatal steroid compliance decreased. These findings highlight the need for standardized perinatal management protocols to improve the clinical management of RDS.
10.Distal derotational femoral osteotomy combined with knee extension device reconstruction for adolescent habitual patellar dislocation with severe lower limb torsional deformity
Chao FENG ; Lin HUANG ; Lianyang LIN ; Shengzhong WU ; Yukun WANG ; Yuan GUO ; Xuemin LYU ; Zheng YANG
Chinese Journal of Orthopaedics 2025;45(10):654-661
Objective:To investigate the surgical technique and initial outcomes of distal derotational femoral osteotomy (DDFO) combined with knee extension device reconstruction in adolescents with habitual patellar dislocation and severe lower limb torsional deformity.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted on 10 adolescent patients (12 knees) treated at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital and its Guizhou branch from June 2016 to June 2022. There were 6 males and 4 females with an average age of 12.0±1.5 years (range: 10.0-14.5 years) Surgical treatment included DDFO and knee extension device reconstruction (lateral retinacular release, medial retinacular plication, Roux-Goldthwait distal realignment, and MPFL reconstruction). Clinical outcomes were assessed using Lysholm scores, incidence of redislocation and complications, and imaging parameters (lateral patellofemoral angle, Insall-Salvati index, TT-TG distance, and femoral anteversion angle) preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively.Results:All 12 knees were successfully operated on, with an average surgery time of 2.0±0.5 h (range 1.0-2.5 h), intraoperative blood loss of 47.1±17.1 ml (range 20-80 ml), and follow-up time of 46.2±18.7 months (range 24-72 months). The Lysholm knee score improved from 58.25±8.80 preoperatively to 89.17±5.32 at final follow-up ( t=-9.096, P<0.001) with significant difference. The lateral patellofemoral angle improved from -64.92±4.68 preoperatively to 6.08±2.27 at final follow-up ( t=39.178, P<0.001) with significant difference. The femoral anteversion angle decreased from 34.08±3.06 preoperatively to 14.50±2.65 at final follow-up ( t=16.916, P<0.001) with significant difference. No patellar redislocation, skin necrosis, wound infection, or limited joint mobility occurred during follow-up. Conclusion:DDFO combined with knee extension device reconstruction is an effective and safe treatment for adolescent habitual patellar dislocation with severe torsional deformity, resulting in significant clinical and radiographic improvement with low complication rates.

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