Objective This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity, differentiation, and population structure of Aedes albopictus across different geographical regions in Shandong Province, and to explore the relationship between genetic diversity and geographical distribution. Methods Between July and August 2024, ten Ae. albopictus populations were sampled from seven cities in Shandong Province. Genomic DNA was extracted from individual mosquitoes, and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I(COⅠ)gene was amplified using PCR and sequenced. The obtained sequences were verified using BLAST and analyzed with MAFFT, MEGA 11, DnaSP v6.12, Arlequin 3.5, PopART 1.7, STRUCTURE 2.3.4 and the R packages adegenet and vegan to assess genetic diversity and population structure. Results A total of 229 COⅠ sequences(662 bp) was obtained, revealing ten variable sites with no insertions or deletions. The overall base composition showed an AT bias of 67.7%. Haplotype analysis identified 11 haplotypes, with Hap2 being the dominant and most widely distributed haplotype across all populations. Neutrality tests showed significant population expansion only in the Rizhao population. Mantel testing result revealed that geographical distance does not significantly impede gene flow. Overall, genetic differentiation among populations was low, indicating frequent gene flow. When combined with additional samples from Shanghai, Fujian, Guangdong, Yunnan, Hainan and Guangxi, STRUCTURE, UPGMA and DAPC analyses revealed two primary genetic clusters of Ae. albopictus. Conclusions Ae. albopictus populations in Shandong Province exhibit frequent gene flow, low genetic differentiation, and relatively low overall genetic diversity. However, the Rizhao population showed signs of recent expansion, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted control measures in this area.

Objective To analyze the monitoring data of ¹³¹I internal exposure in Guangdong Province over the past 3 years, study the thyroid ¹³¹I contamination levels among nuclear medicine staff, and provide a basis for optimizing the monitoring plan. Methods Using a convenience sampling method, 574 detections of nuclear medicine staff from 28 hospitals in Guangdong Province were included in the study. The thyroid ¹³¹I activity was measured directly in vivo. Differences in detection rates were analyzed, and committed effective doses were estimated. Results Over the past 3 years in Guangdong Province, ¹³¹I accumulation was found in the thyroids of staff from 14 hospitals for 62 (10.8%) detections, with an average activity of 154.8 (13.2-8730.6) Bq. The adjusted annual intake was 50.7 (4.5-820.6) kBq. The committed effective dose was 0.56 (0.05-9.03) mSv/a, and the values were ≥ 2 mSv for 8 persons. Among different positions, nurses showed the highest detection rate (19.6%), followed by cleaners (14.7%), with significant differences (P<0.05). Among different exposure types, the detection rate was highest for loading medication into automatic dispenser (23.3%), and the mean activity was highest for entering thyroid cancer patient ward (495.4 Bq), with significant differences (P<0.05). Conclusion Monitoring of ¹³¹I internal exposure in Guangdong Province found that the radiation doses of some staff members had exceeded the threshold specified in other investigations. Routine personal ¹³¹I internal exposure monitoring should be conducted, with increased monitoring frequency. Priority should be given to nurses and cleaners, with monitoring extended to cleaners and outsourced dispensing staff.

Introduction: Cushing’s disease in adolescents is rare and frequently difficult to diagnose due to overlapping features with common pubertal and metabolic conditions. We present an adolescent who underwent inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) with possible cyclical Cushing’s disease, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and the interpretive value of IPSS. Case: A 16-year-old female presented with progressive weight gain, acne, hirsutism, secondary amenorrhea, proximal myopathy, violaceous striae, and facial plethora over 1 year. Her 24-hour urinary cortisol was >3,310 nmol/L with failure of suppression following a 1-mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (701 nmol/L). Her adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was raised (77.9 pg/mL), consistent with ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome. Her hemoglobin A1c was 5.9%, and she has low bone mass for age with a Z score of -2.9 at the Lumbar spine. Pituitary magnetic resonance imaging identified a rightsided microadenoma measuring 0.6 × 0.5 cm, while computed tomography of the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis showed no ectopic source. IPSS with desmopressin stimulation was performed to confirm the ACTH source. No steroidogenesis inhibitors were administered prior to testing. Notably, cortisol levels during IPSS were relatively low, with midnight cortisol of 91 nmol/L and morning cortisol of 200 nmol/L, suggesting testing during a trough phase of possible cyclical hypercortisolism. Despite this, IPSS demonstrated a significant central-to-peripheral ACTH gradient supporting a pituitary source. Conclusion This case highlights the diagnostic dilemma of interpreting IPSS in suspected cyclical Cushing’s disease. Fluctuating cortisol secretion may result in discordant biochemical findings and complicate localization studies. IPSS findings should be interpreted cautiously and integrated with clinical features, imaging, and serial biochemical monitoring. Recognition of cyclical disease patterns is essential to ensure appropriate management in adolescent patients.
Adolescent ; Humans ; Petrosal Sinus Sampling

Introduction: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has emerged as a rescue therapy in thyroid storm. Multiple cycles are often required to achieve adequate reduction in circulating thyroid hormone levels. We report a case of thyroid storm with multiorgan failure successfully managed with only two cycles of TPE, followed by carbimazole. : A 43-year-old female with no significant past medical history presented with a 5-month history of altered bowel habits. She has a small goiter, which was not investigated before. She underwent elective esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy at a private centre, both of which were unremarkable. Post-procedure, she developed unstable tachyarrhythmia and cardiac arrest. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved after three cycles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and she was transferred to the intensive care unit. Biochemical evaluation revealed severe thyrotoxicosis (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH] <0.008 mIU/L, free thyroxine 4 [FT4] >100 pmol/L). BurchWartofsky Point Scale was 90. Her clinical course was complicated by multiorgan failure, including ischemic hepatitis with coagulopathy and oliguric acute kidney injury requiring continuous venovenous hemodialysis. Lugol’s iodine and corticosteroids were initiated as thionamides were contraindicated due to severe hepatic dysfunction. She developed refractory tachyarrhythmia despite electrical cardioversion. Following a multidisciplinary discussion, TPE was initiated due to the limited choice of antithyroid medication. After two TPE sessions, thyroid function improved markedly (TSH 0.01 mIU/L, FT4 26.2 pmol/L), accompanied by improvement in hepatic and renal function, allowing safe commencement of carbimazole. Thyroid function remained stable with FT4 of 19.3 pmol/L 1 week post TPE. Echocardiography demonstrated mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (45–50%) with bi-atrial dilatation. Conclusion This case highlights the role of limited-cycle TPE as an effective rescue therapy and bridging strategy to definitive treatment in severe thyroid storm with multiorgan failure. Timely TPE initiation may improve biochemical control and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients.
Plasma Exchange ; Thyroid Crisis

BACKGROUND : The prevalence of rs5186 (AGTR1 A1166C) in the Mekong Delta remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of rs5186 in patients with primary hypertension at Xuyen A Vinh Long hospital and to investigate its association with some risk factors for hypertension. METHODS : A case-control study was conducted including 65 hypertensive and 65 non-hypertensive patients. Genotype analysis of rs5186 was performed using tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction, and glucose level and lipid profiles were measured. Associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms, biochemical indicators, and hypertension risk were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression. A dominant genetic model (AC + CC) versus AA was applied for rs5186, and false discovery rate correction was used to account for multiple testing. RESULTS : The genotypes of rs5186 in the hypertension group were 55.4% AA, 43.1% AC, and 1.5% CC, whereas in the control group, they were 64.6% AA, 35.4% AC, and 0% CC. The differences in the genotype distribution were not statistically significant (p = 0.7). The AC + CC genotypes showed no significant association with hypertension after adjustment for confounders. Among biochemical factors, elevated blood glucose (>6.5 mmol/l) was strongly associated with hypertension, with a 6-fold increased risk compared to individuals with normal glucose levels (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The rs5186 was not significantly associated with hypertension in this cohort, whereas metabolic factors, particularly hyperglycemia and obesity, were strongly associated with increased hypertension risk. Larger studies are needed to confirm the role of rs5186 and to examine the consistency of effect sizes across different populations.
glucose ; hypertension ; PCR ; SNPs ; Vietnam

Objectives: Vertebral fractures are associated with disability and mortality, but most vertebral fractures are asymptomatic. The present study aimed to determine the incidence of and develop a predictive nomogram for asymptomatic vertebral fractures in Vietnamese adults. Methods: This cohort study as a part of the Vietnam Osteoporosis Study involved 168 men and 287 women aged 50 years and older without a clinically diagnosed vertebral fracture. Their spine x-rays were taken at the recruitment and subsequent 2-year visit. Vertebral fractures were ascertained using the Genant’s semiquantitative method. We employed the Bayesian Model Averaging method to search for the optimal model for predicting asymptomatic vertebral fractures. A predictive nomogram was also developed to facilitate risk prediction. Results: During a median of 2.38 years of follow-up, 13 men and 16 women developed an asymptomatic vertebral fracture, yielding the overall incidence rate of 28 fractures per 1000 person-years, or 33 fractures/1000 personyears in men and 24 fractures/1000 person-years in women, respectively. Most asymptomatic vertebral fractures were moderate, almost 1.5 times more common than mild fractures. The optimal model for predicting incident asymptomatic vertebral fractures included age, male sex and lower femoral neck T-score. The area under the receiver’s operating characteristic curve was 0.91, with 95% CI ranging from 0.86 to 0.96. Conclusions Asymptomatic vertebral fractures were relatively common among adults in Vietnam. A simple model with sex, age and femoral neck T-score is helpful for selective screening of asymptomatic vertebral fractures in Vietnamese individuals.

Objective To analyze bedside radiation dose rates for interventional surgery operators in Guangdong Province, examine dose distribution patterns, and identify potential weaknesses in radiation protection, and to provide guidance for optimizing radiation monitoring and protection measures. Methods A total of 209 digital subtraction angiography devices measured in Guangdong Province between 2017 and 2024 were used as the research objects. The first and second operator positions were set at 30 cm and 90 cm horizontally from the X-ray tube focal point, respectively. Monitoring points were set up at 155, 125, 105, 80, and 20 cm above the ground. Results The median bedside radiation dose rate for interventional surgery operators in Guangdong Province was 83.0 (3.9, 1044.0) μSv/h, indicating instances of exceeding standard limits. The overall dose rates under the old and new standards were 29.8 (3.9-346.5) μSv/h and 114.0 (4.0-1044.0) μSv/h respectively. Results for both standards showed a higher dose rate at the second than the first operator position. The dose rates at the heights of 105 cm (abdomen), 125 cm (chest), and 155 cm (head) were higher in the second operator position than in the first operator position. Additionally, 71.5% and 56.8% of the highest dose rate points under the new and old standards, respectively, were concentrated at 105 cm (abdomen), 125 cm (chest) and 155 cm (head) in the second operator position. Conclusion The principle of protection optimization should be followed, auxiliary protective facilities should be placed correctly, and attention should be paid to the protection of the second surgery operator position, especially above the abdomen. The dose rate results under the new standard were lower than those under the old standard, suggesting that the measurement method may overestimate radiation exposure at the secondary operator position.

AIM: To investigate how angles kappa and alpha affect postoperative visual quality in patients with multifocal intraocular lens(mIOLs)implantation.METHODS: Retrospective cases series. A total of 46 patients(46 eyes)who underwent phacoemulsification were subsumed. The correlation between Preoperative angles kappa and alpha, wave-front aberrations and objective visual quality of cornea, internal, and total eye after surgery were analyzed using iTrace.RESULTS: The magnitude of angle kappa was negatively correlated with internal and total modulation transfer function(MTF)at 3 mm; the magnitude of angle kappa was positively correlated with astigmatism, trefoil, higher-order aberrations(HOAs)of both internal and total eye at 3 mm. The magnitude of angle alpha was negatively correlated with total MTF and total Strehl ratio at 3 mm. The magnitude of angle alpha was positively correlated with corneal coma at 5 mm, internal astigmatism at both 3 mm and 5 mm, and total spherical aberration(SA)at 3 mm. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that, among candidate independent variables(kappa, alpha, astigmatism, SA, coma, trefoil, and HOAs), astigmatism is the only independent factor for altering corneal MTF at 3 mm and 5 mm; astigmatism and HOAs emerged as independent factors for altering internal MTF at 3 mm and 5 mm, and total MTF at 3 mm; astigmatism, SA and HOAs emerged as independent factors for altering total MTF at 5 mm.CONCLUSION: With greater preoperative angle kappa or angle alpha, patients who accept mIOL implantation tend to have larger internal astigmatism and HOAs, which resulting in poor visual quality, especially those with small pupil size.

Objective　To analyze and study the status quo and deficiencies in the construction of talent teams at all levels of CDCs in Hainan Province and put forward countermeasures to provide a reference basis for the high-quality development of talent team construction in all levels of CDCs in Hainan Province. Methods Using field surveys and data retrieval, spatial analysis was employed to compare the overall differences in human resource status of the provincial-level CDC and CDCs in five regional areas (East, West, South, North, and Central Hainan). The coordination between human resource allocation and development strategies was analyzed. A descriptive analysis mainly utilized CDC survey questionnaires and other research forms to explore the health human resources of the province's CDCs. Results The professional and technical personnel in the provincial CDCs comprise 1 431 individuals, accounting for 82.3% (1 431/1 739) of the total number of actual employees, which falls short of the Central Institutional Reform Commission's (CIRC) mandate that technical professionals comprise at least 85% of the total workforce (CIRC Document [2014] No. 2). Among Hainan's CDC personnel, 115 individuals are recognized as high-level talents within the Hainan Free Trade Port framework. These include one Class C talent, 22 Class D talents, and 93 Class E talents. Class A, B, and C-level talents are deficient. The majority of staff at both the provincial and regional CDCs hold bachelor's degrees. There is a significant proportion of staff with associate degrees or lower qualifications, coupled with a severe shortage of highly educated personnel. Postgraduates with master’s degrees or above account for 27.8% (65/233) in the provincial CDC, indicating low educational credentials among personnel in Hainan's CDCs. The central region, characterized by slower economic and social development, faces greater challenges in attracting and retaining high-level talent. There is a scarcity of public health professionals with interdisciplinary expertise. Some public health staff lack clinical knowledge, experience, and skills in disease treatment. Furthermore, there is a need to strengthen on-site emergency response capabilities for public health emergencies. The structural ratio of senior, intermediate, and junior professional and technical positions in the provincial CDC is 40%∶45%∶15%. The position settings are limited to ranking levels without distinction by professional category, leading to a bottleneck-type competition like crossing the "one log bridge" for technical position promotions. Conclusion　Hainan Province faces significant challenges in developing its public health workforce, both in technical expertise and management capacity. Especially under the context of the closure operation of the Hainan Free Trade Port, it is necessary to continuously strengthen top-level talent design to cultivate a favorable policy, system, and cultural environment, thereby promoting the sustained and healthy development of the province's public health career.