1.Mechanism of Yishen Huoxue Tongqiao Formula in Improving Unilateral Vestibular Labyrinth Destruction by Regulating Metabolism-neuroplasticity
Yu TIAN ; Hui LENG ; Rupeng QU ; Xianglong HAO ; Aiping WANG ; Lei SHI ; Zhongyuan QU ; Ye DONG ; Xiande MA ; Yangling HUANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(5):54-64
ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the mechanism by which Yishen Huoxue Tongqiao Formula improves metabolism-neuroplasticity and treats unilateral vestibular labyrinth destruction by regulating the metabolic balance of glutamate (Glu)/γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Methods48 Sprague-Dawley (SD) adult rats were randomly divided into the sham operation group, model group, Yishen Huoxue Tongqiao Formula groups with low, medium, and high doses (9.20, 18.39, 36.78 g·kg-1), and betahistine group (1.62 mg·kg-1). A unilateral vestibular labyrinth destruction (vestibular dysfunction) model was established by intratympanic injection of chloroform into the right ear, while the control group received intratympanic injection of normal saline. Drugs were administered once daily for seven consecutive days. During the period, behavioral tests were performed to evaluate the behaviors of rats after unilateral vestibular labyrinth destruction. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and Nissl staining were used to observe the neuronal morphology in the medial vestibular nucleus. Golgi staining was employed to assess the number of dendritic spines of neurons in the medial vestibular nucleus. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was utilized to detect Glu/GABA. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expressions of neuronal nuclei (NeuN), growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Western blot and real-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) were applied to determine the expressions of glutamate-immunoreactive (Glu-IR), GABA, GFAP, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), and GAP-43. ResultsCompared with the sham operation group, the model group presented with head deviation, balance disorder, increased tail suspension score, nuclear consolidation of medial vestibular nerve neurons, and decreased Nissl bodies (P<0.01). The number of dendritic spines in neurons and NeuN-positive cells decreased. The content of Glu decreased. The content of GABA increased (Glu/GABA decreased). The expression of GAP-43 was down-regulated, and GFAP was up-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). The expressions of Glu-IR, PSD-95, and GAP-43 proteins, as well as Glu-IR mRNA decreased, while the expressions of GABA and GFAP proteins and mRNA increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with those in the model group, the head deviation, imbalanced behavior, and tail suspension scores in each treatment group decreased, with alleviated neuronal injury and recovered Nissl bodies (P<0.01). The number of dendritic spines of neurons increased, and the number of NeuN-positive cells rebounded. The content of Glu increased, and the content of GABA decreased (Glu/GABA increased). GFAP was down-regulated, and GAP-43 was up-regulated (P<0.05, P<0.01). The expressions of Glu-IR, PMD-95, and GAP-43 proteins, as well as Glu-IR mRNA increased, while the expressions of GABA and GFAP proteins and mRNA decreased. The effect was more significant in the high-dose group (P<0.01). ConclusionThe Yishen Huoxue Tongqiao Formula can alleviate vestibular dysfunction, and its mechanism may be associated with regulating the metabolic balance of Glu/GABA, mitigating neural damage, improving synaptic plasticity (promoting GAP-43 expression and inhibiting GFAP expression), and facilitating vestibular compensation.
2.Empirical study of input, output, outcome and impact of community-based rehabilitation stations
Xiayao CHEN ; Ying DONG ; Xue DONG ; Zhongxiang MI ; Jun CHENG ; Aimin ZHANG ; Didi LU ; Jun WANG ; Jude LIU ; Qianmo AN ; Hui GUO ; Xiaochen LIU ; Zefeng YU
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice 2026;32(1):83-89
ObjectiveTo investigate the present situation of input, output, outcome and impact of all registered community-based rehabilitation stations in Inner Mongolia in China, and analyze how the input predict the output, outcome and impact. MethodsFrom March 1st to April 30th, 2025, a questionnaire survey was conducted on all registered community-based rehabilitation stations in Inner Mongolia, covering four dimensions: input, output, outcome and impact. A total of 1 365 questionnaires were distributed. The input included four items: laws and policies, human resources, equipment and facilities, and rehabilitation information management. The output included two items: technical paths and benefits/effectiveness. The outcome included three items: coverage rates, rehabilitation interventions and functional results. The impact included two items: health and sustainability. Each item contained several questions, all of which were described in a positive way. Each question was scored from one to five. A lower score indicated that the situation of the community-based rehabilitation station was more in line with the content described in the question. Regression analysis was performed using the total score of each item of input dimension as independent variables, and the total scores of the output, outcome and impact dimensions as dependent variables. ResultsA total of 1 262 valid questionnaires were collected. The mean values of input, output, outcome and impact of community-based rehabilitation stations were 1.827 to 1.904, with coefficient of variation of 45.892% to 49.239%. The regression analysis showed that, rehabilitation information management, human resources, and laws and policies significantly predicted the output dimension (R² = 0.910, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, all four items in the input dimension predicted both the outcome (R² = 0.850, P < 0.001) and impact dimensions (R² = 0.833, P < 0.001). ConclusionInput, output, outcome and impact of the community-based rehabilitation stations in Inner Mongolia were generally in line with the content of the questions, although some imbalances were observed. Additionally, the input of community-based rehabilitation stations could significantly predict their output, outcome and impact.
3.Construction and validation of a prognostic risk assessment model for lung adenocarcinoma based on miR-34 family target genes
Lingyu GU ; Ang GELEMA ; Dan YANG ; Huifeng WANG ; Lixin WANG ; Hui DONG
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(1):118-126
ObjectiveTo establish a tumor prognostic risk assessment model related to target genes of the miR-34 family. MethodsTarget genes of the miR-34 family were screened, and the scores of miR-34 target genes were assessed in 16 tumor types. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to identify the tumor type with the strongest correlation between miR-34 target gene scores and overall survival (OS). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to elucidate the functional roles and signaling pathways of miR-34 target genes. A prognostic risk model based on the miR-34 target genes was constructed using univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and dual-luciferase reporter assays were conducted to validate whether the target genes bind to miR-34 and measure their RNA expression levels in the relevant tumors. Additionally, the risk score was integrated with other clinical indicators to develop a nomogram prediction model for patient survival. ResultsA total of 65 target genes of the miR-34 family were screened. The cancer type exhibiting stronger correlation between the target gene scores and OS was lung adenocarcinoma (P = 0.003, HR= 5.150). Furthermore, miR-34 target genes were predominantly enriched in oxidative stress pathways and various tumor-related processes. Three genes, LDHA, GALNT7, and SATB2, were identified as core components of the prognostic analysis model for lung adenocarcinoma. Additionally, the constructed nomogram model demonstrated robust predictive performance. ConclusionThe risk model and prognosis model of lung adenocarcinoma constructed based on the key target genes of miR-34 have good predictive performance.
4.Screening of anti-tuberculosis potential target IspD protein and preparation of its polyclonal antibodies
Chinese Journal of Biologicals 2026;39(01):22-30
Objective To screen for potential targets of the anti-tuberculosis lead compound M6 using antibody microarray,express Mycobacterium smegmatis(Ms) target protein 2-C-methy1-D-erythriol 4-phosphate cytidylyl-transferase(IspD) in E.coli, and prepare its polyclonal antibodies, in order to provide experimental basis for in-depth study of the protein function and the development of new anti-tuberculosis drugs.Methods The minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) of M6 against Ms and Corynebacterium glutamicum(Cg) was determined. The protein samples of Cg treated with M6 were captured and analyzed by antibody microarray, and the differential targets were identified and screened by mass spectrometry. The ispD gene of Ms was amplified by PCR and cloned into vector pET28a(+) to construct recombinant plasmid pET28a-ispD. The recombinant plasmid was transformed into E.coli BL21(DE3), and the optimal conditions for protein expression were determined by optimizing the induction temperature(16, 25, 33, 37 ℃) and IPTG concentration(0-1. 5 mmol/L). The recombinant IspD protein was purified by nickel column affinity chromatography. The purified recombinant IspD protein was used as immunogen combined with Freund's incomplete adjuvant to immunize 11 female BALB/c mice to prepare polyclonal antibodies. The titer of antiserum was determined by indirect ELISA, and the antibody specificity was detected by Western blot.Using the prepared polyclonal antibodies, the effect of M6 treatment on the expression level of Ms IspD protein was analyzed by Western blot.Results The MIC of M6 against Cg and Ms was 0. 5 and 32 μg/mL, respectively. IspD protein was one of the primary target proteins of M6. The recombinant expression plasmid pET28a-ispD was constructed correctly as identified by double enzyme digestion, and the IspD protein was expressed in E.coli. The optimal induction conditions were determined to be 1. 0 mmol/L IPTG, 16 ℃ for 14 h. After purification, the purity of recombinant IspD protein reached, and it could specifically bind to mouse anti-His tag monoclonal antibodies. The polyclonal antibodies against IspD protein achieved a high titer of 1∶102 400, which could specifically recognize IspD protein in recombinant bacterial lysate. The expression level of Ms IspD protein did not change significantly after M6 treatment.Conclusion In this study, the potential target IspD protein of M6 was successfully screened by antibody microarray screening, and Ms IspD protein was expressed in E.coli. The polyclonal antibodies against IspD were prepared by immunizing mice, providing essential experimental basic for further functional studies of this protein and the development of novel anti-tuberculosis drugs.
5.Photodynamic performance and anti-lung cancer effect of novel chlorin compounds
Yan QIU ; Hao WU ; Yafen DONG ; Ye CHEN ; Jian WANG ; Hui JIN
Journal of Pharmaceutical Practice and Service 2026;44(1):39-45
Objective To study the photodynamic performance and the killing effect of photodynamic therapy on lung cancer of novel chlorin compounds 2-(4-(5,15,20-triphenyl-7H,8H-porphyrin-10-yl) phenoxy) acetic acid(D1)and 4-(4-(5,15,20-triphenyl-7H,8H-porphyrin-10-yl) phenoxy) butanoic acid (D2). Methods The ultraviolet visible absorption spectrum and fluorescence spectrum of D1 and D2 were determined. The singlet oxygen generation capacity of D1 and D2 was measured by using DPBF as singlet oxygen capture agent. Fluorescence assay was used to detect the cellular phagocytosis rate of the compounds in A549 cells, and MTT assay was used to detect their dark toxicity and phototoxicity. A nude mouse model of lung cancer was established to investigate the antitumor activity of the compounds mediated photodynamic action in vivo, and the blood concentration of D2 in nude mice, its distribution in tumor tissue and skin tissue were further detected. Results D1 and D2 had strong absorption at 652 nm with the best excitation wavelength at 429 nm and 427 nm, and the optimal emission wavelength was at about 659 nm. They also had a higher singlet oxygen generation rate than the control drug m-THPC. D1 and D2 had no dark toxicity at concentrations below 10 μmol/L, and could be ingested by A549 cells, basically reaching saturation in 18~24 hours. After laser irradiation at 650 nm wavelength, D1 and D2 showed significant antitumor activity in vivo and in vitro (P<0.01). However, D2 could selectively accumulate in tumor tissues after administration, and the optimal treatment time was less than 30 min after administration. Conclusion D2 had excellent photodynamic antitumor activity and could selectively aggregate in tumor tissues, which had the potential to be a candidate drug for photosensitizer and treatment of lung cancer with independent intellectual property rights, and was worth further research.
6.Effect of vitamin B12 eye drops on the expression of MMP-9 and TNF-α in the cornea of mice with dry eye disease
Hui DONG ; Huacheng ZHENG ; Weiting WANG ; Haixia ZHAO
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(3):424-431
ObjectiveTo investigate how vitamin B12 eye drops regulate MMP-9 and TNF-α expression levels in the corneas of dry eye disease (DED) mouse model induced by a combination of an artificially simulated dry environment (air humidity 30%) and subcutaneous injection of hyoscine hydrobromide. MethodsFifty C57BL/6 female mice were used in the study. 10 mice formed A group (blank control), while the remaining 40 mice were subjected to dry eye disease induction through subcutaneous injection of scopolamine hydrobromide in a controlled environment with 30% air humidity. All mice underwent schirmer I test (SIT), tear break-up time (TBUT), and corneal fluorescence staining score(CFS)evaluations. Mice meeting modeling criteria were randomly assigned to three groups: B group (model group), C group (PBS control), and D group (vitamin B12 group). 0, 7, 14, and 21 days after treatment, each group received TBUT, SIT, CFS, and corneal inflammation assessments. Macroscopic analysis evaluated the efficacy of vitamin B12 eye drops in treating dry eye. After 21 days of treatment, all mice were euthanized via cervical dislocation and their corneas analyzed using HE staining to examine morphological changes. ELISA and immunohistochemical methods were employed to detect MMP-9 and TNF-α expression levels in corneal tissues across groups. ResultsIn dry environments (air humidity 30%), subcutaneous injection of scopolamine hydrobromide induced changes in dry eye-related indicators in mice: SIT significantly decreased, TBUT significantly shortened, corneal fluorescein staining increased, and CFS all significantly elevated (P 0.05), indicating successful establishment of the dry eye model. A total of 30 dry eye mice were enrolled. When the dry eye model was successfully established without drug intervention, no statistically significant differences were observed between B group, C group and D group in terms of TBUT, SIT, corneal fluorescein staining, or CFS. Compared with A group, B group, C group and D group showed statistically significant differences in reduced SIT, shortened TBUT, increased corneal fluorescein staining, and elevated CFS (P 0.05). After drug intervention, D group (vitamin B12 group) exhibited significantly increased SIT, prolonged TBUT, reduced corneal fluorescein staining, clearer corneas, decreased fluorescein staining, and lower CFS compared with B and C groups(P 0.05). ELISA and immunohistochemical staining results showed that compared with A group, B and C groups exhibited significantly increased expression of MMP-9 and TNF-α in corneal tissues (P 0.05). D group showed decreased expression of MMP-9 and TNF-α compared with B and C groups but remained higher than A group (P 0.05). ConclusionThe expression of MMP-9 and TNF-α in the corneal tissues of mice with dry eye is elevated, suggesting that both inflammatory factors, MMP-9 and TNF-α, are involved in the development of dry eye. Vitamin B12 eye drops may improve the symptoms of ocular surface discomfort by promoting the repair of the corneal epithelium. Vitamin B12 eye drops may increase tear secretion, prolong tear film break up time, reduce corneal fluorescein staining, and alleviate the inflammatory reaction of the cornea by decreasing the expression of MMP-9 and TNF-α in the corneal tissues of the mice, thus playing a therapeutic role in the treatment of dry eye disease.
7.The Korean Rectal Cancer Multidisciplinary Committee Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rectal Cancer version 2.0
Hyo Seon RYU ; Hyun Jung KIM ; Dong Hyun KANG ; Yoo-Kang KWAK ; Han Deok KWAK ; Yoon-Hye KWON ; Dalyon KIM ; Baek-Hui KIM ; Jae Hyun KIM ; Ji Hun KIM ; Jin Won KIM ; Tae Hyung KIM ; Hae Young KIM ; Soo Min NAM ; Gyoung Tae NOH ; Jun Woo BONG ; Nak Song SUNG ; Seon Hui SHIN ; Kil-Yong LEE ; Sung Chul LEE ; Sea-Won LEE ; Jung Won LEE ; Jong Min LEE ; Myung Hoon IHN ; Joo Han LIM ; Woong Bae JI ; Dae Hee PYO ; Young Ki HONG ; Jung-Myun KWAK ;
Annals of Coloproctology 2026;42(1):4-33
Rectal cancer, which accounts for approximately 40% of colorectal cancers, remains a major clinical concern. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment have steadily improved rectal cancer outcomes. Considering this, the Korean Rectal Cancer Multidisciplinary (KRCM) Committee has aimed to provide clinicians and policymakers with up-to-date, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to support optimal decision-making, reflecting current evidence, the Korean healthcare context, and patient values and preferences. The Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rectal Cancer version 2.0 were developed through multidisciplinary collaboration with related academic societies, building upon and updating the KRCM Clinical Practice Guidelines version 1.0 (titled “Multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of rectal cancer”). These consensus guidelines of the KRCM were established based on a comprehensive literature review, evidence synthesis, with recommendation development guided by the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methodology, and consideration of applicability in real-world clinical practice under the national health insurance system. Each recommendation has been presented with its strength and level of evidence.
8.From setting to vetting: using artificial intelligence for Single Best Answer questions review
Olivia NG ; Siew Ping HAN ; Magdalene Hui Min LEE ; Dong Haur PHUA
Korean Journal of Medical Education 2026;38(1):10-14
Purpose:
Maintaining the quality of Single Best Answer (SBA) questions remains a challenge in medical education, especially as artificial intelligence (AI)-generated items become more common. While considerable attention has been paid to AI question generation, the vetting process is under-explored and difficult to scale.
Methods:
This study investigates the feasibility and reliability of using a large language model to support the vetting of SBA questions. An AI-based reviewer, QA-bot, was developed using custom GPT and embedded with 25 criteria aligned with Bloom’s taxonomy (Levels 1–3). QA-bot and two experienced educators independently evaluated 32 AI-generated SBA questions using the shared evaluation rubric.
Results:
The rubric showed high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha=0.878), and strong inter-rater reliability between human reviewers (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]=0.893). QA-bot demonstrated good alignment with human raters (ICC=0.861 and 0.840). While the AI performed well on objective, rule-based criteria, it was less consistent in detecting irrelevant complexity and accurately judging difficulty.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that AI can function as an efficient first-pass reviewer, improving consistency and reducing workload, with human oversight remaining essential for educational and clinical relevance.
9.Simulation, artificial intelligence, and competency-based frameworks in veterinary medical education:a narrative review
Hui ZHANG ; Aoyun LI ; Ying LI ; Fazul NABI ; Hailong DONG ; Yongjiang MA
Journal of Veterinary Science 2026;27(3):e37-
and Relevance: Evidence from the literature suggests that, when integrated appropriately, simulation technologies, digital learning environments, and AI-assisted tools collectively enhance the key elements of veterinary training. These approaches can support safer clinical practice, help standardize skill development, and broaden access to quality training, particularly in resource-limited settings. Instead of hypothesizing new mechanisms, this review uses current evidence to highlight practical implications for curriculum design and clinical preparedness. Continued investment in faculty development, ethical use of AI, and infrastructure is essential for achieving sustainable, technology-enhanced veterinary education.
10.Comparison of hemoglobin variability between short- and intermediate-acting erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: a retrospective cohort study
Da Eun PARK ; Hae Dong CHOI ; Young Eun PARK ; Ki Baek KIM ; A Young KIM ; Kyu Hyang CHO ; Jong Won PARK ; Jun Young DO ; Seok Hui KANG
Journal of Yeungnam Medical Science 2026;43(1):36-
Background:
This study aims to compare the effects of short- and intermediate-acting erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) on hemoglobin (Hb) variability in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis.
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study included 119 patients who were classified into two groups based on ESA type: short-acting ESA (epoetin alfa/beta [EPO], n=48) and intermediate-acting ESA (darbepoetin alfa [DPO], n=71). Hb levels were measured 11 times at 4-week intervals from ESA therapy initiation to 40 weeks of follow-up. This study used established metrics from previous research, including standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), and residual SD, to quantify Hb variability.
Results:
Over the 40-week study period with 4-week measurement intervals, mean Hb levels were comparable between the two ESA groups. In the EPO and DPO groups, SD was 0.67±0.19 g/dL and 0.69±0.22 g/dL, respectively (p=0.516), CV was 0.06±0.02 and 0.07±0.02, respectively (p=0.480), and residual SD was 0.73±0.21 g/dL and 0.76±0.26 g/dL, respectively (p=0.463). No significant differences in Hb variability were observed between the groups over 40 weeks using SD, CV, and residual SD.
Conclusion
This retrospective cohort study showed comparable mean Hb levels and Hb variability indices between groups. With respect to Hb variability, the findings reveal no clear basis for prioritizing either short-acting or intermediate-acting ESA.


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