Myosteatosis is one of the common complications in patients with end-stage liver disease, which is significantly associated with poor outcomes after liver transplantation. Currently, diagnostic criteria of myosteatosis have not been established, and CT is the most commonly used for diagnosis. The pathogenesis of myosteatosis is multifactorial, and the pathophysiological mechanisms linking it to end-stage liver disease are not fully understood. An increasing number of scholars have recognized that the severity of myosteatosis is closely related to its clinical consequences, but there are no effective treatment options available. This article reviews the pathophysiological mechanisms and diagnostic methods of myosteatosis, and its impact on the prognosis of liver transplant recipients, and discusses current treatment strategies to provide references for the perioperative management of liver transplant recipients.

Background The association between occupational physical activity (OPA) and cardiometabolic risk factors remains controversial, potentially due to differences in the associations between OPA and various cardiometabolic indicators, as well as the lack of a clearly defined optimal OPA range for multiple-indicator synergistic benefits. Objective To investigate the relationship between OPA and cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Hubei Province, and to explore an optimal OPA range for multi-indicator improvements. Methods Data were derived from the Hubei Province dataset of the China Health Evaluation And Risk Reduction Through Nationwide Teamwork from 2015 to 2023, including 19028 high-risk CVD individuals. OPA (metabolic equivalent·h·d⁻¹, MET·h·d⁻¹) was assessed using the China Kadoorie Biobank physical activity questionnaire, anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist circumference) and cardiometabolic indicators (blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, lipid profiles) were measured. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the association between logOPA quartiles (Q1-Q4) and abnormal cardiometabolic indicators, while restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were employed to explore their dose-response relationships. Subgroup and interaction analyses were also conducted by gender. Results The median OPA of all participants was 12.86 MET·h·d⁻¹ (male: 14.40 MET·h·d⁻¹, female: 11.14 MET·h·d⁻¹). After adjusting for confounders, compared with the Q1 group, logOPA in the Q4 group was associated with 20% (OR=0.80, 95%CI: 0.72, 0.89), 14% (OR=0.86, 95%CI: 0.78, 0.96), and 13% (OR=0.87, 95%CI: 0.79, 0.95) reduction in the risk of abdominal obesity, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and metabolic syndrome (MS), respectively, and 33% (OR=1.33, 95%CI: 1.18, 1.49), 33% (OR=1.33, 95%CI: 1.18, 1.50), and 38% (OR=1.38, 95%CI: 1.21, 1.57) increase in the risk of high total cholesterol (TC), high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high non-HDL-C, respectively. Similar trends were observed in males and females, with significant positive associations of logOPA with high TC and high non-HDL-C in males (P_interaction<0.05). The risk of low HDL-C decreased rapidly when logOPA was more than 2.213 (OPA>9.14 MET·h·d⁻¹), showing an inverted L-shaped trend. The risk of high TC, high LDL-C, and high non-HDL-C increased beyond logOPA thresholds of 3.244, 2.476, and 3.377 (OPA >25.64, 11.89, and 29.28 MET·h·d⁻¹), respectively, showing a J-shaped trend. However, logOPA exhibited a U-shaped nonlinear dose-response relationship with blood pressure and fasting blood glucose abnormalities (P_non-linear<0.05) , with minimal risks at logOPA 2.969 and 2.372 (OPA of 19.47 and 10.72 MET·h·d⁻¹). Conclusion OPA exhibits heterogeneous dose-response patterns across cardiometabolic indicators. Integrating the inverted L-, J-, and U-shaped association patterns, we suggest an optimal OPA range of 9.14−25.64 MET·h·d⁻¹ for multiple cardiometabolic indicators in total individuals at high-risk of CVD, with ranges of 9.61−31.34 MET·h·d⁻¹ for males and 8.97−22.87 MET·h·d⁻¹ for females. These findings provide critical evidence for developing OPA interventions strategies targeting high-risk population for CVD.

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of electroacupuncture at "Sishencong" (EX-HN1) and "Fengchi" (GB20) on hippocampal neuronal ferritinophagy mediated by the nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)/ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1) signaling pathway in vascular dementia (VD) rats, and to explore the potential mechanisms of electroacupuncture for VD. METHODS: A total of 60 male rats of SPF grade were randomly divided into a blank group (12 rats), a sham surgery group (12 rats) and a modeling group (36 rats). In the modeling group, the modified 4-vessel occlusion method was used to establish the VD model. The 24 successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into a model group and an electroacupuncture group, with 12 rats in each group. In the electroacupuncture group, electroacupuncture was applied at left and right "Sishencong" (EX-HN1), and bilateral "Fengchi" (GB20), with continuous wave, in frequency of 2 Hz and current intensity of 1 mA, 30 min a time, once daily for 21 consecutive days. The learning and memory abilities were assessed using the Morris water maze test before modeling, after modeling and after intervention, as well as the novel object recognition test after intervention. After intervention, the neuronal morphology in the hippocampus was observed by Nissl staining; the iron deposition was observed by Prussian blue staining; the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was detected by dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescence staining; the levels of iron, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the hippocampal tissue were measured by the colorimetric assay, TBA method, and WST-1 method, respectively; the positive expression of NCOA4, FTH1 and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) was detected by immunohistochemistry; the protein expression of NCOA4, FTH1, GPX4, and the ratio of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3B (LC3B) Ⅱ/Ⅰ in the hippocampus were detected by Western blot. RESULTS: Compared with the sham surgery group, in the model group, the escape latency was prolonged, and the number of platform crossings reduced (P<0.01), the recognition index (RI) was decreased (P<0.01); the hippocampal neurons displayed a blurred laminar structure, disorganized cellular arrangement, and the number of Nissl bodies was decreased (P<0.01); the percentage of iron deposition area in the hippocampus was increased (P<0.01); in the hippocampus, the levels of ROS, iron, MDA, and the protein expression of NCOA4, as well as the LC3B Ⅱ/Ⅰ ratio were increased (P<0.01), the SOD level, and the protein expression of FTH1 and GPX4 were decreased (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, in the electroacupuncture group, the escape latency was shortened and the number of platform crossings was increased (P<0.01), the RI was increased (P<0.01); the hippocampal neurons exhibited more regular morphology, better-organized cellular structure, and the number of Nissl bodies was increased (P<0.05); the percentage of iron deposition area in the hippocampus reduced (P<0.01); in the hippocampus, the levels of ROS, iron, MDA, and the protein expression of NCOA4, as well as the LC3B Ⅱ/Ⅰ ratio were decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05), the SOD level, and the protein expression of FTH1 and GPX4 were increased (P<0.01). CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture at "Sishencong" (EX-HN1) and "Fengchi" (GB20) can improve learning and memory abilities in VD rats, and its mechanism may be associated with the regulation of the hippocampal NCOA4/FTH1 signaling pathway, inhibition of ferritinophagy, and alleviation of oxidative stress damage.
Animals ; Electroacupuncture ; Dementia, Vascular/genetics* ; Male ; Rats ; Signal Transduction ; Humans ; Memory ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Nuclear Receptor Coactivators/genetics* ; Ferritins/genetics* ; Learning ; Hippocampus/metabolism* ; Acupuncture Points

Radiation-induced injury, a body dysfunction caused by irradiation, is associated with the dose, duration, and speed of radiation and is predominantly derived from radiation therapy for patients with malignant tumors. The current clinical treatment mainly includes amelioration of injury, alleviation of symptoms, and improvements in function restoration of the affected sites because of lack of targeted agents specific to radiation-induced injuries. Research and development of preventive and therapeutic agents against radiation-induced injuries are of great significance to reduce the body damages caused by radiotherapy and improve the quality of life of cancer survivors. This review summarizes the radiation-induced injury and its mechanisms, radioprotectants, and therapeutic agents for radiation, and proposes future development directions, so as to provide a reference for alleviation of radiation-induced injury and improvement in prognosis.

BACKGROUND:The high rate of postoperative hypoproteinemia in patients undergoing hip revision is associated with severe trauma,which affects the rapid recovery of patients. OBJECTIVE:To investigate the risk factors of perioperative hypoproteinemia in patients with hip revision,and to provide guidance for early screening of high-risk patients with postoperative hypoproteinemia. METHODS:According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria,161 patients who underwent hip revision were divided into hypoproteinemia group(76 cases)and normal group(85 cases).The rate of hypoproteinemia was 47.2%.Data such as age,gender,body mass index,osteoporosis,operation time,preoperative erythrocytes,preoperative hemoglobin,preoperative leukocytes,preoperative platelets,preoperative fibrinogen,preoperative C-reaction protein,preoperative sedimentation rate,preoperative blood calcium,preoperative albumin,postoperative drainage tube placement,American Society of Anesthesiologists score,and postoperative hypoproteinemia were collected.SPSS software was used to analyze the independent risk factors of hypoproteinemia after hip revision using multivariate binary logistic regression analysis.R software was used to construct the nomogram prediction model.Receiver operating characteristic curve and calibration curve and decision curve were drawn to evaluate the model. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)Univariate analysis results showed that body mass index,preoperative erythrocytes,preoperative hemoglobin,preoperative platelets,preoperative fibrinogen,preoperative C-reaction protein,and operation time were significantly different between the two groups(P<0.05).(2)Multivariate binary Logistic regression analysis results showed that body mass index(OR=0.859,P=0.021),operation time(OR=1.010,P=0.002),preoperative erythrocytes(OR=0.424,P=0.036),and preoperative C-reaction protein(OR=1.043,P=0.032)levels were independent risk factors for postoperative hypoproteinemia in patients with hip revision.(3)Based on four independent risk factors:body mass index,operation time,preoperative erythrocytes and preoperative C-reaction protein,the nomogram can effectively predict the risk of hypoproteinemia after hip revision.This nomogram prediction model has good differentiation and accuracy,and may lead to better clinical net benefits for patients.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) at "Fengchi" (GB 20) and "Sishencong" (EX-HN 1) on learning and memory impairment in vascular dementia (VD) rats by observing the influences on the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB)/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling pathway and the excitotoxicity induced by hippocampal calcium overload. METHODS: Thirty-two male SD rats of SPF grade were selected and randomized into a normal group (6 rats), a sham-operation group (6 rats) and an operation group (20 rats). VD model was established with the modified Pulsinelli's four-vessel occlusion (4-VO) method. Twelve rats after successfully modeled were assigned randomly into a model group and an EA group, 6 rats in each one. In the EA group, EA was delivered at bilateral "Fengchi" (GB 20) and "Sishencong" (EX-HN 1), with the continuous wave, the frequency of 2 Hz and the electric current of 1 mA. Stimulation intensity was adjusted depending on the slightly trembling of rat head. EA was given once daily, 30 min each time; and EA intervention was delivered for 21 days continuously. Using Morris water maze test, the learning and memory function was assessed. The neuronal morphology in the hippocampal CA1 was observed with HE staining; the level of glutamate (GLU) in serum and hippocampal tissue, as well as the activity of calcium pump (Ca²⁺-ATP) in the hippocampus were detected using colorimetric method. The protein expression of NMDAR, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase Ⅱ (CaMKⅡ), phosphorylated calmodulin-dependent protein kinase Ⅱ (p-CaMKⅡ), phosphorylated cyclic phosphoradenosine effector element binding proteins (p-CREB), CREB, and BDNF in the hippocampal CA1 was detected using immunohistochemistry. The protein expression of NMDAR, CREB, p-CREB and BDNF in the hippocampal tissue was detected using Western blot method. RESULTS: Compared to the sham-operation group, in the model group, the escape latency was prolonged and the platform crossing times of rats were reduced (P<0.01), the hippocampal neuron structure was damaged to different degrees, the structure in hippocampal CA1 was loosened, the arrangement disorganized, with clear grid-like structure; the neuronal morphology was irregular, pyknosis and even dissolution occurred, glial cells increased, blood capillary was dilated and the inflammatory cells were infiltrated and scattered. The level of GLU in the serum and hippocampal tissue and the protein expression of hippocampal NMDAR were elevated (P<0.01), the activity of Ca²⁺-ATP and the protein expression of CaMKⅡ, p-CaMKⅡ, CREB, p-CREB and BDNF were reduced (P<0.01, P<0.05); and the ratio of p-CaMKⅡ/CaMKⅡ and that of p-CREB/CREB were dropped (P<0.05). In comparison with the model group, in the EA group, the escape latency was shortened and the platform crossing times of rats rose (P<0.01), the arrangement was improved in the hippocampal CA1, the neuronal morphology was intact, the nucleoli were clear relatively and the pyknosis or dissolution were attenuated, the numbers of glial cells reduced relatively, the dilation of blood capillary was alleviated. The level of GLU in the serum and hippocampal tissue and the protein expression of NMDAR were reduced in the hippocampal tissue (P<0.01), the activity of Ca²⁺-ATP and the protein expression of CaMKⅡ, p-CaMKⅡ, CREB, p-CREB and BDNF were elevated (P<0.05, P<0.01); and the ratio of p-CaMKⅡ/CaMKⅡ and that of p-CREB/CREB increased (P<0.05). CONCLUSION EA at "Fengchi" (GB 20) and "Sishencong" (EX-HN 1) can attenuate learning and memory impairment in VD rats, which may be obtained by reducing GLU level in hippocampal tissue, inhibiting hippocampal excitotoxicity, mediating protein expression related to the NMDAR/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway, and maintaining neuronal survival and growth.
Electroacupuncture ; Male ; Animals ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Learning ; Memory ; Signal Transduction ; Cyclic AMP Response Element-Binding Protein/metabolism* ; Memory Disorders/therapy* ; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism* ; Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate/metabolism* ; Dementia, Vascular/therapy*

Objective To develop space vegetable cultivation facility(SVCF)and apply to the cultivation of several fruit and vegetable plants on China Space Station.Methods Through conducting experiments and development of regenerative plant cultivation substrate,active water supply,nutrient supply based on controlled-release fertilizer,LED light environment regulation,modular design and development of various functional units of the SVCF,as well as system integration and testing,plant full cycle cultivation verification,the development of the SVCF(also known as Space Vegetable Garden)has been completed.Through the cultivation on-orbit of three vegetables and one fruit plants,the feasibility of cultivation methods with regenerative substrate was tested and the growth characteristics of several plants were studied.Results The facility worked normally,which can supply water actively,detect substrate parameters including water content and conductivity,and adjust the height according to the plant lighting requirement.All performance indicators of the SVCF meet the cultivation requirements of different fruit and vegetable.Three types of lettuce plants("shengcaiwang","hongye","meiluo")and one tomato plants("honglei")were cultivated from seeding to harvest on-orbit.The lettuce and tomato plants grew well.Astronauts participated in the cultivation and management of lettuce and tomato plants,picking and consuming lettuce leaves(about 900 g,fresh weight)and tomato fruit.The tomato seeds were preserved after harvest and returned to earth.The seeds(second generation)was sowed and cultivated on earth.The growth characteristics will be studied and compared with the tomato plants on-orbit.Conclusion The facility performance meets the requirements of several fruit and vegetable plants cultivation on-orbit.The cultivated lettuce and tomato plants grew well.Astronauts picked and consumed lettuce leaves and tomato fruits.The results laid an important technique foundation for the continuous production of multiple types of fruit and vegetable plants on-orbit.

End-stage liver disease (ESLD) includes decompensated liver cirrhosis and liver failure, which usually have dangerous conditions and a poor prognosis. Liver transplantation is the only effective therapy for ESLD, but its clinical application is limited due to shortage of liver donors, immunological rejection, and expensive costs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells and alleviate liver fibrosis by regulating immune function through paracrine, and therefore, MSCs have a wide application prospect in the field of ESLD treatment. A number of clinical studies have shown that MSC infusion is safe and effective in the treatment of ESLD during a short period of time, and there is also certain clinical evidence for its long-term safety and efficacy. MSC-derived exosomes (MSC-Exo) do not have a complete cellular structure and can promote hepatocyte regeneration through a variety of mechanisms, and their clinical value has attracted more and more attention, but there are few studies on this issue. Currently, the core mechanism of MSC therapy for ESLD and the standardized process of MSC preparation are the problems needing to be solved urgently.

Objective:To explore the module of the construction and application of medical first-aid at the door of the space capsule and the air evacuation.Methods:According to the purpose, principle, and method set by the module, it was divided into two sub-modules: medical first-aid at the door of the space capsule and the air evacuation. During the comprehensive first-aid training, independent training and combined training were carried out respectively according to different mission stages of launch and recovery and different recovery terrain. Meanwhile, research was performed to ensure that medical carrying equipment was lightweight, modular, and portable, and the efficiency of modularization construction was tested in the comprehensive training.Results:The module of medical first-aid at the door of the space capsule and the air evacuation obviously shortened the rescuing time during the comprehensive training, the saving effect was remarkable, and the overall saving efficiency was significantly improved.Conclusions:The module of medical first-aid at the door of the space capsule and the air evacuation meet the requirements that the emergency support system of aerospace medicine should function on an immediate basis, ensuring accurate treatment and air evacuation without any delay, so that to achieve the aim of aerospace medicare.

Objective:To study the application of scenario simulation teaching combined with modular training in nursing education of medical rescue in manned space flight.Methods:Twenty nurses from the medical rescue team of Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center were selected as the research objects. The research objects were randomly divided into the scenario simulation combined with practical training group (practical training group, n=10) and traditional teaching group (control group, n=10). Scenario simulation teaching combined with modular training and traditional teaching were used to carry out nursing training. After the training, theoretical assessment, operation assessment and satisfaction survey were organized. Results:The scenario simulation teaching combined with modular training group was significantly better than the traditional training group in theory assessment, operation assessment and satisfaction survey of nursing staff (all P<0.05). Conclusions:Scenario simulation teaching combined with modular training has obvious teaching effect, which can improve the ability and quality of nursing staff, and help to complete the manned space medical rescue mission efficiently.