Objective To explore the diagnostic value of exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed databases up to August 7, 2024. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected for data extraction and quality assessment. The quality of included studies was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the risk of bias and applicability of included prediction model studies were assessed by the prediction model risk of bias assessment tool (PROBAST). Results A total of 10 studies were included, among which 5 studies only identified specific exhaled VOCs in CF patients, and another 5 developed 7 CF risk prediction models based on the identification of VOCs in CF. The included studies reported a total of 75 exhaled VOCs, most of which belonged to the categories of acylcarnitines, aldehydes, acids, and esters. Most models (n=6, 85.7%) only included exhaled VOCs as predictive factors, and only one model included factors other than VOCs, including forced expiratory flow at 75% of forced vital capacity (FEF75) and modified Medical Research Council scale for the assessment of dyspnea (mMRC). The accuracy of the models ranged from 77% to 100%, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve ranged from 0.771 to 0.988. None of the included studies provided information on the calibration of the models. The results of the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool (PROBAST) showed that the overall bias risk of all predictive model studies was high, and the overall applicability was unclear. Conclusion The exhaled VOCs reported in the included studies showed significant heterogeneity, and more research is needed to explore specific compounds for CF. In addition, risk prediction models based on exhaled VOCs have certain value in the diagnosis of CF, but the overall bias risk is relatively high and needs further optimization from aspects such as model construction and validation.

Objectives: Hypoparathyroidism (HP) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by parathyroid hormone (PTH) defi ciency. The PTH is a candidate gene for familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (FIH). This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity of two novel rare variants (RVs) ofPTH through in vitro functional study. Methods: Targeted next-generation sequencing was used to identify candidate gene mutations. Clinical data were retrospectively collected. Wild-type (WT) PTH was used as a template for site-directed mutagenesis to create mutant eukaryotic expression plasmids, which were transfected into cells. Treated with or without 4-phenylbu tyric acid (4-PBA), the levels of intact PTH (iPTH) and PTH (1-84) were measured by chemiluminescence, and protein expression was assessed using Western blotting. Results: Two patients carrying PTH mutations (c.154G > A: p.Val52Ile, c.270G > T: p.Leu90Phe) were identified.Patient 1, a 45-year-old male, presented with carpal and pedal numbness, muscle cramps, and low serum calcium (1.29 mmol/L). Patient 2, a 12-year-old female, had muscle twitches, convulsions, low calcium (1.50 mmol/L), and iPTH of 4 pg/mL. The iPTH or PTH (1-84) levels in the medium transfected with mutant Val52Ile and Leu90Phe PTH decreased by 31%–38%, and 51%–96% compared to WT (allP < 0.05), which were not rescued by 4-PBA. No significant changes in intracellular PTH expression were observed. Conclusions In this study, two novel RVs of PTH(Val52Ile and Leu90Phe) were identified that may impair hormone synthesis and secretion. Our study has broadened the mutation spectrum of the PTH and shed light on potential mechanisms underlying FIH.

Objectives: Hypoparathyroidism (HP) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by parathyroid hormone (PTH) defi ciency. The PTH is a candidate gene for familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (FIH). This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity of two novel rare variants (RVs) ofPTH through in vitro functional study. Methods: Targeted next-generation sequencing was used to identify candidate gene mutations. Clinical data were retrospectively collected. Wild-type (WT) PTH was used as a template for site-directed mutagenesis to create mutant eukaryotic expression plasmids, which were transfected into cells. Treated with or without 4-phenylbu tyric acid (4-PBA), the levels of intact PTH (iPTH) and PTH (1-84) were measured by chemiluminescence, and protein expression was assessed using Western blotting. Results: Two patients carrying PTH mutations (c.154G > A: p.Val52Ile, c.270G > T: p.Leu90Phe) were identified.Patient 1, a 45-year-old male, presented with carpal and pedal numbness, muscle cramps, and low serum calcium (1.29 mmol/L). Patient 2, a 12-year-old female, had muscle twitches, convulsions, low calcium (1.50 mmol/L), and iPTH of 4 pg/mL. The iPTH or PTH (1-84) levels in the medium transfected with mutant Val52Ile and Leu90Phe PTH decreased by 31%–38%, and 51%–96% compared to WT (allP < 0.05), which were not rescued by 4-PBA. No significant changes in intracellular PTH expression were observed. Conclusions In this study, two novel RVs of PTH(Val52Ile and Leu90Phe) were identified that may impair hormone synthesis and secretion. Our study has broadened the mutation spectrum of the PTH and shed light on potential mechanisms underlying FIH.

Body weight abnormalities, including overweight, obesity, and underweight, have become a dual public health challenge in Chinese adults: overweight and obesity lead to a variety of chronic complications, while underweight increases the risks of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and organ dysfunction. To systematically address these issues, multidisciplinary experts in endocrinology, sports science, nutrition, and psychiatry from various regions have held multiple weight management seminars. Based on the latest epidemiological data and clinical evidence, they expanded the guideline to include assessment and intervention strategies for underweight, in addition to the core content of obesity management. This guideline outlines the etiological mechanisms, evaluation methods, and multidimensional management strategies for overweight and obesity, covering key areas such as diagnosis and assessment, medical nutrition therapy, exercise prescription, pharmacological intervention, and psychological support. It is intended to provide a scientific and standardized approach to weight management across the adult population, aiming to curb the rising prevalence of obesity, mitigate complications associated with abnormal body weight, and improve nutritional status and overall quality of life.

Objective:To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of zoledronic acid in patients with Paget′s disease of bone based on clinical data from a single medical center.Methods:This retrospective study included 24 patients diagnosed with Paget′s disease of bone and treated with zoledronic acid at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 2009 and June 2020. Demographic data, clinical symptoms, treatment efficacy, and safety outcomes were collected. The primary efficacy measure was serum alkaline phosphatase(ALP) levels. Treatment was considered effective if ALP levels returned to normal or decreased by more than 75% from baseline in the difference between the ALP level and its normal median value.Results:Among the 24 patients with Paget′s bone disease, the most commonly affected site was the skull(in 17 cases). All patients received a single 5 mg intravenous infusion of zoledronic acid. Serum ALP levels significantly decreased after treatment. Among the 15 patients who completed at least 3 months of follow-up, all achieved treatment success. The median time for serum ALP levels to reach the target was 13.1(9.4, 26.1) weeks. In 12 patients, ALP levels normalized within a medium of 16.9(11.5, 37.3) weeks, and remained stable over a medium follow-up of 4.56(2.42, 5.71) years. The most common side effects were hypocalcemia(21 cases, 87.5%) and flu-like symptoms(17 cases, 70.8%). Seven patients had severe hypocalcemia(serum calcium<1.75 mmol/L), and they had higher baseline levels of ALP, calcium, and phosphorus compared to those with mild hypocalcemia.Conclusions:Zoledronic acid 5 mg intravenous infusion effectively controlled disease activity in patients with Paget′s disease of bone. Generally, Most patients achieved treatment goals within 3-4 months, with sustained remission for a median of 4 years. Hypocalcemia was the most frequent side effect, underscoring the importance of timely calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

Objective:To evaluate long-term outcomes of endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for duodenal papillary adenomas and to identify risk factors for incomplete resection.Methods:Clinical data of 180 patients diagnosed as having duodenal papillary adenoma via postoperative pathology after EP in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School from January 2010 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups based on their postoperative margin status: the complete resection group (negative resection margins) and the incomplete resection group (positive/uncertain resection margins). Recurrence rates were compared between the two groups, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for incomplete resection.Results:Among the 180 patients included in the study, 137 underwent complete resection, and 43 had incomplete resections. Recurrence rate was significantly higher in the incomplete resection group than that in the complete resection group (30.2% VS 15.3%, χ2=4.75, P=0.029). logistic regression analysis indicated that high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia was an independent risk factor for incomplete resection ( OR=2.43, 95% CI:1.12-5.26, P=0.024). Conclusion:Patients with incomplete resection after EP have a higher recurrence rate in the long-term follow-up. High-grade intraepithelial neoplasia is an independent risk factor for incomplete resection. Close surveillance and aggressive management are warranted for patients with positive or uncertain resection margins to mitigate the recurrence risk.

Objective To predict the hospitalization expense of pneumonia patients using the CatBoost and LightGBM models and explore associated influencing factors,providing a scientific basis for reasonable control of medical expenses and alle-viating the financial burden on society and patients'families.Methods Data from 1407 inpatients with pneumonia admitted to a tertiary hospital between November 1,2021 and January 31,2023 were collected from the hospital information system.The Cat-Boost and LightGBM models were employed to predict the hospitalization expenses of pneumonia patients and analyze the influen-cing factors.Results The full-variable CatBoost model fitted better than the full-variable LightGBM model,with the R-square value of 0.859 and Mean Absolute Percentage Error(MAPE)of 0.352.The full-variable CatBoost model predicted better than the full-variable LightGBM model,with the R-square value of 0.820 and MAPE of 0.363.Notably,the average length of stay was the most important factor affecting the hospitalization expenses of pneumonia patients.Conclusion Compared to the LightGBM model,the CatBoost model indicated more advantages and higher accuracy in predicting hospitalization expenses for pneumonia patients.These accurate predictions of hospitalization expenses can provide decision-making references for hospital administra-tors.Therefore,on the premise of ensuring medical quality,reasonably reducing the length of hospitalization can effectively con-trol the increase in hospitalization expenses.

Objectives: Hypoparathyroidism (HP) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by parathyroid hormone (PTH) defi ciency. The PTH is a candidate gene for familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (FIH). This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity of two novel rare variants (RVs) ofPTH through in vitro functional study. Methods: Targeted next-generation sequencing was used to identify candidate gene mutations. Clinical data were retrospectively collected. Wild-type (WT) PTH was used as a template for site-directed mutagenesis to create mutant eukaryotic expression plasmids, which were transfected into cells. Treated with or without 4-phenylbu tyric acid (4-PBA), the levels of intact PTH (iPTH) and PTH (1-84) were measured by chemiluminescence, and protein expression was assessed using Western blotting. Results: Two patients carrying PTH mutations (c.154G > A: p.Val52Ile, c.270G > T: p.Leu90Phe) were identified.Patient 1, a 45-year-old male, presented with carpal and pedal numbness, muscle cramps, and low serum calcium (1.29 mmol/L). Patient 2, a 12-year-old female, had muscle twitches, convulsions, low calcium (1.50 mmol/L), and iPTH of 4 pg/mL. The iPTH or PTH (1-84) levels in the medium transfected with mutant Val52Ile and Leu90Phe PTH decreased by 31%–38%, and 51%–96% compared to WT (allP < 0.05), which were not rescued by 4-PBA. No significant changes in intracellular PTH expression were observed. Conclusions In this study, two novel RVs of PTH(Val52Ile and Leu90Phe) were identified that may impair hormone synthesis and secretion. Our study has broadened the mutation spectrum of the PTH and shed light on potential mechanisms underlying FIH.

Objective:This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the incidence and influencing factors of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in the short term after pacemaker lead implantation at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, so as to provide evidence for understanding pacemaker lead-related TR.Methods:Consecutive patients who underwent single- or dual-chamber permanent pacemaker implantation between June 2019 and December 2023 in the Department of Cardiology were enrolled. General clinical data and relevant parameters were collected. Changes in TR severity before and shortly after the procedure were assessed using echocardiography. TR progression was defined as an increase by one grade or more, and TR improvement as a decrease by one grade or more. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with TR progression.Results:A total of 219 patients were included (128 males, 91 females), with a mean age of 69.7 ± 11.2 years. The median follow-up time was 99 (26, 199) days. TR remained unchanged in 114 patients (52.1%), improved in 46 (21.0%)—including 36 (16.4%) with one-grade reduction, 9 (4.1%) with two-grade reduction, and 1 (0.5%) with three-grade reduction—and progressed in 59 patients (26.9%). Among those with progression, 51 (23.3%) had mild-to-moderate TR worsening by one grade, and 8 (3.7%) had moderate or worse TR worsening by at least two grades. Notably, one case involved lead perforation of the leaflet and two cases had lead impingement. Compared with the non-progression group ( n = 114), pacemaker indication (AV block vs. sick sinus syndrome), baseline left atrial diameter, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), and the severity of mitral regurgitation (MR) and TR were significantly associated with TR progression or improvement (all P < 0.05). Ordinal logistic regression analysis identified preoperative TR severity [ OR=10.57 (3.77–29.68), P < 0.001] and pacemaker indication [ OR=0.452 (0.222–0.918), P = 0.028] as independent predictors of postoperative TR progression. Patients with AV block were more likely to receive left bundle branch pacing ( P < 0.001), which may contribute to their lower risk of TR. Conclusions:Short-term progression of TR after pacemaker implantation is relatively common, although severe TR remains rare. Preoperative TR severity and pacemaker indication are independent predictors of short-term TR progression. The use of physiological pacing modalities may help reduce the incidence of TR following pacemaker lead implantation.

Objectives: Hypoparathyroidism (HP) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by parathyroid hormone (PTH) defi ciency. The PTH is a candidate gene for familial isolated hypoparathyroidism (FIH). This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity of two novel rare variants (RVs) ofPTH through in vitro functional study. Methods: Targeted next-generation sequencing was used to identify candidate gene mutations. Clinical data were retrospectively collected. Wild-type (WT) PTH was used as a template for site-directed mutagenesis to create mutant eukaryotic expression plasmids, which were transfected into cells. Treated with or without 4-phenylbu tyric acid (4-PBA), the levels of intact PTH (iPTH) and PTH (1-84) were measured by chemiluminescence, and protein expression was assessed using Western blotting. Results: Two patients carrying PTH mutations (c.154G > A: p.Val52Ile, c.270G > T: p.Leu90Phe) were identified.Patient 1, a 45-year-old male, presented with carpal and pedal numbness, muscle cramps, and low serum calcium (1.29 mmol/L). Patient 2, a 12-year-old female, had muscle twitches, convulsions, low calcium (1.50 mmol/L), and iPTH of 4 pg/mL. The iPTH or PTH (1-84) levels in the medium transfected with mutant Val52Ile and Leu90Phe PTH decreased by 31%–38%, and 51%–96% compared to WT (allP < 0.05), which were not rescued by 4-PBA. No significant changes in intracellular PTH expression were observed. Conclusions In this study, two novel RVs of PTH(Val52Ile and Leu90Phe) were identified that may impair hormone synthesis and secretion. Our study has broadened the mutation spectrum of the PTH and shed light on potential mechanisms underlying FIH.