1.Monitoring and Analysis of Environmental Microbial Contamination in Laboratory Animal Barrier Facilities
Ying WANG ; Wentao JI ; Shaoqiong XU ; Guoyuan CHEN ; Jie FENG ; Baojin WU
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2026;46(2):222-230
ObjectiveTo investigate microbial contamination status and distribution characteristics in laboratory animal barrier facilities, so as to provide a scientific basis for environmental quality control in barrier facilities. MethodsIn accordance with the national standard "Laboratory Animals—Environment and Housing Facilities" and the "Standard Operating Procedures" of the barrier facility, bacterial monitoring was performed on samples of air-settling bacteria, materials, and personnel gloves in the single-corridor barrier facility of the Animal Core Facility, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CEMCS). The monitoring data from January 2020 to December 2024 were collected, organized and statistically analyzed, and partial samples were subjected to species identification using PCR and sequencing methods. ResultsA total of 7 898 samples were collected from 2020 to 2024, including 3 175 air-settling bacteria samples, 3 353 material samples, and 1 370 glove samples. The overall compliance rate was 95.7% (7 559/7 898), among which the compliance rate of air-settling bacteria was 97.1% (3 084/3 175), that of materials was 93.2% (3 125/3 353), and that of personnel gloves was 98.5% (1 350/1 370). Over the five years, the compliance rates of all three types of monitored samples were above 90%. There were statistically significant differences in the compliance rates of air-settling bacteria and material samples among different quarters (P<0.05). Further investigation was conducted on samples collected from January to March 2024, and 190 bacterial strains were obtained through isolation and culture, including 126 strains from air-settling bacteria, 52 strains from materials, and 12 strains from personnel gloves. The strains were identified by PCR amplification and sequencing, and the 190 bacterial strains belonged to 9 genera and 20 species. Gram-positive bacteria accounted for the majority, with Staphylococcus as the dominant genus, accounting for 77.9% (148/190). ConclusionMicroorganisms carried by air, materials, and personnel gloves in barrier facilities are mainly Gram-positive bacteria. Regular monitoring of air-settling bacteria, materials, and personnel gloves in barrier facilities enables timely detection and control of potential risks during husbandry management and facility operation, which is of great significance for maintaining the sound operation of the barrier facility system and ensuring the quality of animal experiments.
2.Exploring Mechanism of Chaihu Jia Longgu Mulitang in Depressive-like Rats via AMPK/SIRT1/NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling Pathway
Guang WANG ; Xinhua SONG ; Jie YANG ; Jinyao XU ; Junhua MEI ; Chao CHEN ; Guohua CHEN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(11):144-152
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of Chaihu Jia Longgu Mulitang(CJLM) on depression-like behaviors and neuroinflammation in rats subjected to social isolation combined with chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS), and to explore the potential underlying mechanisms. MethodsSixty male SD rats were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group, and low-, medium-, and high-dose CJLM groups(2.89, 5.78, 11.56 g·kg-1), as well as a fluoxetine group(10 mg·kg-1). Except for the normal group, all other groups were subjected to social isolation combined with CUMS for 63 d. During the first 35 d, depression models were established only, and from day 36 onward, modeling and drug administration were conducted simultaneously for a total intervention period of 28 d. Depression-like behaviors were evaluated using the sucrose preference test, open-field test, and forced swimming test. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was performed to observe hippocampal histomorphology. Immunohistochemistry(IHC) was used to detect the expression levels of ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1(Iba1) and gasdermin D(GSDMD) proteins in the hippocampus. Western blot analysis was employed to determine the protein expression levels of adenosine 5′-monophosphate(AMP)-activated protein kinase(AMPK) and phosphorylated(p)-AMPK, silent information regulator 1(SIRT1), nuclear factor-κB(NF-κB) and p-NF-κB, NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3), and Caspase-1 in the hippocampus. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Real-time PCR) was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin(IL)-6, and IL-1β in the hippocampus. ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed a decreased sucrose preference rate(P<0.01), reduced total movement distance(P<0.01), prolonged immobility time(P<0.01), and decreased central zone residence time(P<0.01) in the open-field test, and increased immobility time in the forced swimming test(P<0.01). Hippocampal neuronal structure was damaged. The contents of Iba1 and GSDMD in the hippocampus were significantly increased(P<0.01). The protein expression levels of p-AMPK and SIRT1 in the hippocampus were significantly decreased(P<0.01), whereas the protein expression levels of p-NF-κB, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 were significantly increased(P<0.01). The mRNA expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the hippocampus were significantly upregulated(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the low-, medium-, and high-dose CJLM groups and the fluoxetine group all were able to reverse depression-like behavioral changes, as evidenced by increased sucrose preference rate, increased total movement distance with shortened immobility time in the open-field test, prolonged central zone residence time, and reduced immobility time in the forced swimming test(P<0.05, P<0.01). Meanwhile, hippocampal neuronal structural damage was alleviated. In the hippocampus, the expression levels of Iba1 and GSDMD were downregulated, the expression levels of p-AMPK and SIRT1 were upregulated, and the abnormal elevations of p-NF-κB, NLRP3, Caspase-1, as well as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α mRNA were suppressed(P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionCJLM can ameliorate depression-like behaviors in rats subjected to social isolation combined with CUMS and attenuate hippocampal neuroinflammation and pyroptosis, suggesting that its effects may be associated with the regulation of AMPK/SIRT1/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
3.Correlation of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy with short video addiction in college students
WANG Wenting, ZHANG Zhonglou, SONG Jinqiu, XU Haipeng, RUAN Jie
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(4):548-552
Objective:
To explore the relationship of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy with short video addiction among college students, so as to provide reference for alleviating social anxiety, improving the level of emotion regulation and preventing short video addiction.
Methods:
From May to June 2024, 2 172 college students from a university in Guangzhou were selected by multistage random cluster sampling method. The Interaction Anxiousness Scale, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and Short Video Addiction Scale were used as the measurement tools. The potential profile was used to analyze the potential categories of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy. The Chi square test was used to analyze the characteristics of the distribution of potential profile categories of college students with different demographic characteristics. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between social anxiety, emotion regulation strategy and short video addiction.
Results:
The potential categories of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy in college students were divided into adaptive regulation type (784 cases, 36.10 %), low anxiety-expression type (623 cases, 28.68%), inhibition-anxiety type (478 cases, 22.01%), high anxiety-disorder type (287 cases, 13.21%). There were statistically significant differences in the distribution of various potential categories of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy among cadres of different gender, family residence, class cadres or not ( χ 2=42.55, 17.86 , 39.05, all P <0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that after controlling the confounding factors such as demographic variables, the potential categories of social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy of college students (low anxiety-expression type, inhibition-anxiety type, high anxiety-disorder type) were the important related factors of short video addiction ( β =0.15,0.25,0.35, all P <0.05).
Conclusions
Social anxiety and emotion regulation strategy of college students exhibit distinct categorical characteristics, and its varying latent categories are associated with short video addiction. Schools should implement targeted intervention measures for different categories of college students to promote their comprehensive mental health development.
4.Effects of prostaglandin E2 injection into the median preoptic nucleus on body temperature in female mice and its mechanisms
Ya LI ; Yi’an SONG ; Qiaofeng JI ; Lei XU ; Jie ZHANG ; Jianhui XU ; Xiaoyu HOU
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(2):250-257
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) microinjection into the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO) on core body temperature in female mice, and to clarify its underlying mechanism. MethodsMicroinjection cannula were implanted into the MnPO of female mice using stereotaxic surgery.Subsequently, a multi-channel temperature acquisition system was used to simultaneously monitor rectal and brown adipose tissue (BAT) temperatures before and after intra-MnPO injections of different reagents.To investigate the thermoregulatory effects of the microinjection of PGE2 into the MnPO, 12 female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a saline group (n=6) and a PGE2 group (n=6), which were injected with 0.1 μL saline and PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L), respectively.To determine whether E-series prostaglandin receptor (EP)1, EP3, and EP4 receptors mediate the thermoregulatory effects of PGE2, 15 female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=5 per group).Mice in each group first received an injection of 0.1 μL PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L) into the MnPO. After their body temperature returned to baseline levels, they were subsequently injected with a mixture of either EP1, EP3 or EP4 antagonist (ant) (20 mmol/L) + PGE2 (2.8 mmol/L). ResultsCompared with baseline level, the rectal temperature (P<0.01) and BAT temperature (P<0.001) of female mice both increased significantly after microinjection of PGE2 into the MnPO.Compared with the saline group, the increases in rectal temperature (P<0.001) and BAT temperature (P<0.000 1) were significantly greater in the PGE2 group of mice.Furthermore, following the injection of PGE2 into MnPO, the increase in BAT temperature was found to be significantly greater than that in rectal temperature in mice (P<0.001).Compared to the administration of PGE2 alone, co-injection of an EP3 ant + PGE2 into the MnPO of mice resulted in a significantly smaller increase in both rectal temperature (P<0.001) and BAT temperature (P<0.001).In contrast, the increases in rectal and BAT temperatures following MnPO injection of either EP1 ant + PGE2 or EP4 ant + PGE2 were not statistically significant (P>0.05). ConclusionInjection of PGE2 into the MnPO elevates BAT and core body temperature in female mice via the EP3 receptor.
5.Effect of virtual reality biofeedback training combined with oral positioning therapy on dysphagia after oral cancer surgery
Mingxia XU ; Hui ZHU ; Piaopiao CHEN ; Kexin MENG ; Jie CHEN ; Jing CHEN ; Huifang SUN ; Yanyan SUN
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice 2026;32(4):445-452
ObjectiveTo explore the application of virtual reality biofeedback training combined with oral localization therapy in dysphagia after oral cancer surgery. MethodsFrom May, 2023 to July, 2024, 86 patients with dysphagia after oral cancer surgery in Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital were randomly divided into control group (n = 43) and experimental group (n = 43). The control group received conventional swallowing function training, while the experimental group added virtual reality biofeedback training combined with oral positioning therapy, for four weeks. The Standardized Swallowing Function Assessment Scale (SSA), Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and M.D.Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) were used for evaluation before intervention, and two weeks, four weeks and eight weeks after intervention. ResultsFor scores of SSA , the main effects of group (F = 150.190, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.641) and time (F = 230.870, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.733), as well as the interaction effect (F = 16.910, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.168) were all significant. For scores of FOIS, the main effects of group (F = 59.601, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.415) and time (F = 89.464, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.516), as well as the interaction effect (F = 7.990, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.087) were all significant. For scores of MDADI, the main effects of group (F = 33.133, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.283) and time (F = 49.650, P < 0.001, η2p = 0.371), as well as the interaction effect (F = 3.224, P = 0.023, η2p = 0.037) were all significant. ConclusionVirtual reality biofeedback training combined with oral localization therapy could improve the swallowing function, oral feeding ability and overall quality of life of patients with dysphagia after oral cancer surgery.
6.Mechanistic Interpretation of Zheng’s San Qi San Powder in Treating Skeletal Muscle Injury via Bioinformatics Prediction, Chemical Analysis and Experimental Verification
Ding-Rui WANG ; Yun-Xin LIU ; Jun-Jie XU ; Liu YANG ; Jia-Hao LÜ ; Cheng-Yuan XING ; Lei LÜ ; Bei-Bei QIE
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(4):1028-1047
ObjectiveZheng’s San Qi San (ZSQS) power, a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, is used for treating soft tissue injuries involving muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, its underlying therapeutic mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to screen and identify pharmaceutically active ingredients and their candidate biomolecule targets, and further elucidate the molecular mechanism of ZSQS in the treatment of skeletal muscle injury. MethodsNetwork pharmacology was employed to construct “ZSQS-component-target”, “protein-protein interaction (PPI)” and “active ingredient-core protein-pathway” networks to predict the key active ingredients and potential core targets of ZSQS for skeletal muscle injury. The predicted results were then validated via microarray data from the GEO database. Molecular docking was then performed to assess the binding ability between the screened active ingredients of ZSQS and the candidate core targets. Moreover, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis to verify the active components of the drug and ZSQS serum. Finally, an animal model of eccentric exercise-induced skeletal muscle injury and a myotube cell model of oxidative stress-induced injury were established to validate the effects of ZSQS and its interventional effects on the biological functions of critical targets, thereby demonstrating the potential therapeutic mechanism of ZSQS. ResultsAmong the 111 active components identified in ZSQS and their corresponding 204 targets related to the skeletal muscle injury repair process, 14 core targets (including AKT1) and 4 core active components (quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and β‑sitosterol) were screened out, while the corresponding metabolites of quercetin, luteolin and kaempferol were detected in the ZSQS serum. Among these targets, 5 candidate genes (IL-6, CASP3, HIF1A, STAT3, and JUN) overlapped with the differential expression screening results with GEO data, and IL-6 was confirmed to be enriched in the PI3K/AKT pathway. Combined with the prediction results of the AKT expression levels, these findings suggest that the phosphorylation level of AKT1 plays a core role in the therapeutic mechanism of ZSQS. Molecular docking analysis further revealed that the PH domain of AKT1 had high binding energy with all 4 core active components, as verified by LC-MS. Finally, animal model studies have shown the promoting effect of ZSQS administration on skeletal muscle injury repair and its possible antioxidant damage mechanism. Cell model studies further demonstrated that ZSQS-containing serum, core active ingredient combination therapy, and quercetin monomer could increase the phosphorylation level of AKT, promote the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, upregulate the expression of downstream antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and GR), and inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α), thereby alleviating oxidative stress and the inflammatory response. ConclusionZSQS alleviates skeletal muscle injury mainly by activating the AKT/Nrf2 signaling pathway, enhancing cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the clinical application and modernized development of ZSQS.
7.Reflections on Status Quo and Development Pathways of Traditional Chinese Medicine Technology Transfer in Context of Digital-intelligent Transformation
Jie ZHANG ; Jing XU ; Guangwei ZHENG ; Huayu ZHANG ; Chang LIU ; Xiaoxiao WEN ; Xishui PAN ; Bin WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(4):235-240
As a distinctive resource of Chinese civilization, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) technology transfer faces significant opportunities under the background of digital and intelligent transformation, while also being constrained by unique challenges such as the complexity of its theoretical system, lengthy industrial chains, and multidimensional policy restrictions, resulting in a "high-value-high-threshold" paradox. At present, TCM technology transfer is deeply trapped in a "threefold reluctance" dilemma, i.e., unwillingness to transfer, inability to transfer, and lack of capacity to transfer. Specifically, the disconnection between scientific research evaluation systems and market demand leads to low conversion rates of research achievements, unclear ownership and compliance risks suppress innovation incentives, and the absence of professional services intensifies supply-demand mismatches. This article systematically analyzes the specific characteristics of TCM technology transfer and proposes a breakthrough pathway centered on full-chain digital and intelligent transformation. By integrating technologies such as intelligent sorting systems, blockchain-based traceability, and AI diagnostic models, the TCM ecosystem spanning "cultivation-production-service" can be reconstructed. In terms of standardization, promoting the progression from "experience-based data conversion" to "data standardization" and further to "intelligent standardization" is advocated to resolve quality control challenges. For example, a "three-no-one-full" certification system can strengthen quality trust. Policy coordination should focus on optimizing mechanisms for the transformation of scientific and technological achievements, while exploring intellectual property securitization and risk-sharing models to stimulate research momentum. In terms of internationalization, reliance on the Belt and Road Initiative platform to promote the export of geo-authentic medicinal material brands and standards is recommended to build a dual-driven model of "technology plus culture". Looking ahead, through the construction of national-level databases, the cultivation of interdisciplinary talent, and the mutual recognition of international standards, a new paradigm of "scientific intelligent manufacturing" can be formed, providing systematic solutions for the modernization of TCM and global health governance.
8.Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease with Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Review
Zheng XU ; Yuan TANG ; Fenglan QIU ; Yiguang LI ; Lingyu YANG ; Jie CHEN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(4):322-330
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common type of dementia, primarily characterized by cognitive and behavioral impairments as well as deficits in learning and memory. The progression of AD has imposed a significant economic burden on society and families. However, its exact pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Currently, available therapeutic drugs are limited and are often accompanied by serious adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and their extracts are mostly natural products and possess advantages such as multi-pathway regulation and relatively few adverse reactions. Experimental studies have shown that TCMs exhibit great potential in the prevention and treatment of AD. For example, Huanglian Jieduang, Danggui Shaoyaosan, Kaixin San, Liuwei Dihuangwan, Buyang Huanwutang, as well as Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma, Astragali Radix, Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis, Coptidis Rhizoma, Gardeniae Fructus, Ginkgo Folium, Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, and Curcumae Longae Rhizoma, can reduce β-amyloid deposition, inhibit excessive Tau protein phosphorylation, restore mitochondrial function, alleviate oxidative stress, suppress neuroinflammation and apoptosis, repair synaptic function, and improve gut microbiota. This article mainly summarizes the effects of several TCMs and compound prescriptions on AD, aiming to provide a reference for subsequent TCM-based treatment of AD.
9.Chemical elements pollution characteristics and health risk assessment of PM2.5 during heating season in Xinxiang university town
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2026;37(1):29-33
Objective To detect the PM2.5 pollution situation during heating season in Xinxiang university town, analyze the contents of 10 elements in PM2.5, and evaluate its health risks, so as to provide data support for the subsequent environmental governance of college town. Methods PM2.5 were collected during heating season. The contents of 10 elements were detected by ICP-MS after PM2.5 was digested. The source was analyzed using enrichment factor method. The ecological risk and health risk of PM2.5 was evaluated by applying the potential survival hazard index method and health risk assessment method. Results The average contents of Al, Mg, Mn, Cr, Zn, Se, Cu, Pb, Cd and As were respectively 165.59,203.37,7.75,328.93,133.61,8.24,30.82,7.09,2.77and 9.15 ng/m3. The average contents of Cr, Pb, and As all exceeded their air environment targets. The enrichment factors of Pb, Cu, As, Zn, Cd, Cr and Se were all more than 10, and their sources were affected by human activities. The potential ecological risk index of PM2.5 was 352.42, which was strong ecological hazard factor. PM2.5 had carcinogenic risk to human, and the risk in adults was higher than that in children. Conclusion During heating season in Xinxiang college town mainly, PM2.5 may have short-term health risks on environment and human. When the air quality is poor, it is recommended to reduce outdoor activities while taking personal protective measures to minimize the potential health risks to the population in the university town.
10.Identification and Analysis of bHLH Genes Related to Color Formation of Gastrodia elata Stem
Xue JIANG ; Dandan RAN ; Xiuwen WANG ; Xiaobo ZHANG ; Xiaohong OU ; Jie PAN ; Tao ZHOU ; Zhen OUYANG ; Jiao XU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(8):202-209
ObjectiveGastrodia elata has evolved ecological types with shortened rhizome internodes and diversified flower and fruit coloration in response to different altitudes. Studying the genetic mechanisms of different ecotype germplasm is significant for guiding variety breeding in different cultivation areas. MethodsThe bHLH gene family was identified based on the whole-genome datasets of G. elata f. elata and G. elata f. glauca. Subsequently, the gene family members were subject to analysis, including gene structure, chromosomal localization, cis-acting elements, gene synteny, and phylogeny. Combined with transcriptome data and quantitative Real-time PCR, the expression patterns of bHLH genes in the stems of the different G. elata ecotype germplasm were analyzed. Finally, correlation analysis was conducted between gene expression patterns and color to obtain the key bHLH genes regulating the color formation of stem. ResultsA total of 63 bHLH genes were identified in both G elata f. elata and G. elata f. glauca, unevenly distributed across 17 chromosomes and clustered into 16 subfamilies, with significant expansion in some family members. Obvious inversions of bHLH genes on the same chromosome and interchromosomal translocations were detected in the two ecotype germplasm. Among these genes, 12 bHLH genes (such as bHLH62-3 and bHLH74) were associated with the bright yellow color of G elata f. elata stem, while 9 bHLH genes (such as PIL13, UNE12, and bHLH130) were correlated with the red color of G. elata f. glauca stem. Compared to G. elata f. glauca, the bHLH48 expression level was significantly higher in flowers and scale leaves of G elata f. elata, and the bHLH62-3 expression level was significantly higher in all organs of G elata f. elata. ConclusionsFunctional pathway divergence of the bHLH family members has occurred across different chromosomes in G elata f. elata and G. elata f. glauca. Through synergism or antagonism with other genes, 21 bHLH genes participate in the coloration metabolic pathway regulation of stems, flowers, and fruits. Specifically, bHLH62-3 is involved in regulating stem color differentiation in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway of G. elata, thus relevant to the color formation of stem. Additionally, GebHLH48 positively regulates flowering-related pathways to promote the early-flowering phenotype of G. elata f. elata. These findings have laid the foundation for analyzing the genetic regulatory mechanisms underlying the color formation of the G. elata stem.


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