1.Cost-effectiveness analysis of cefiderocol for the treatment of confirmed or suspected carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria serious infections
Yuan GONG ; Shuo KANG ; Yibing HOU ; Xiaohui WANG ; Ying NIE ; Jing WANG ; Zhenhua PAN
China Pharmacy 2026;37(2):192-197
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of cefiderocol versus best available therapy (BAT) or standard-of- care (SOC) for the treatment of confirmed or suspected carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacterial (CRGNB) serious infections from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system, and to explore its reasonable pricing. METHODS A decision tree model was constructed based on data from two phase Ⅲ clinical trials (CREDIBLE-CR and GAME CHANGER) to simulate the cost- effectiveness of cefiderocol in two scenarios: salvage therapy for confirmed CRGNB infection (scenario 1) and empirical therapy for suspected CRGNB infection (scenario 2). The primary outcome measure was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The willingness-to-pay (WTP) was set at 1 to 3 times China’s per capita GDP in 2024. To verify the robustness of the results, one- way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted, and based on these, a reasonable price range for cefiderocol in the Chinese market was explored. RESULTS The results for scenario 1 showed that the clinical cure rate in the cefiderocol group was higher than that in the BAT group (47.50% vs. 34.21%), but its ICER was 415 065.03 yuan per cured case, exceeding three times China’s GDP per capita. Scenario 2 revealed that the ICER for cefiderocol relative to SOC was as high as 1 362 446.16 yuan per cured case, far exceeding the WTP. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the treatment duration and price of cefiderocol were key factors affecting its cost-effectiveness. In the two scenarios described above, the unit price of cefiderocol must fall below 683.47 and 242.00 yuan/g, respectively, to be considered cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS Based on the current market price, cefiderocol lacks sufficient cost-effectiveness for treating confirmed or suspected CRGNB serious infections within China’s healthcare system. To improve its accessibility, price negotiations or a tiered medical insurance payment strategy are required.
2.Exploring on Quality Evaluation Methods of Clinical Case Reports in Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on China Clinical Cases Library of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Kaige ZHANG ; Feng ZHANG ; Bo ZHOU ; Haimin CHEN ; Yong ZHU ; Changcheng HOU ; Liangzhen YOU ; Weijun HUANG ; Jie YANG ; Guoshuang ZHU ; Shukun GONG ; Jianwen HE ; Yang YE ; Yuqiu AN ; Chunquan SUN ; Qingjie YUAN ; Buman LI ; Xingzhong FENG ; Kegang CAO ; Hongcai SHANG ; Jihua GUO ; Xiaoxiao ZHANG ; Zhining TIAN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(1):271-276
As the core vehicle for preserving and transmitting traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) academic thought and clinical experience, the establishment of a robust quality evaluation system for TCM clinical case reports is a crucial component in the current standardization and modernization of TCM. Based on the practical experience of constructing the China Clinical Cases Library of Traditional Chinese Medicine by the China Association of Chinese Medicine, this study conducted a comprehensive analysis of critical challenges, including insufficient authenticity and unfocused evaluation criteria. It proposed a three-dimensional evaluation framework grounded in the structure-process-outcome logic, encompassing three dimensions of authenticity and standardization, characteristics and advantages, application and translational impact. This framework integrated 12 key evaluation indicators in a systematic manner. The model preserved the academic characteristics of TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment, while aligning with modern scientific research standards, achieving a balance between individualized TCM experience and standardized evaluation. Concurrently, this study provided theoretical foundations and methodological guidance for evaluating the quality of TCM clinical cases, contributing significantly to the inheritance of TCM knowledge, evidence-based practice, and the reform of talent evaluation mechanisms.
3.The Functional Study of Prostaglandin E2 via EP Receptor on Pacemaker Activity in Interstitial Cells of Cajal from Murine Colon
Hongyang GONG ; Han Yi JIAO ; Yuan CHANG ; Seok CHOI ; Chan Sik HONG ; Jae Yeoul JUN
Chonnam Medical Journal 2026;62(2):79-87
The interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) generate spontaneous pacemaker activities responsible for producing slow waves in the gut smooth muscles. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2 ) is one of the most important prostanoids in the gut, playing a crucial role in multiple physiological and pathological processes. Because information regarding the effects of PGE2 on colonic ICC is limited, we investigated the effects of PGE2 and its underlying signaling pathways in murine colonic ICC. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of PGE2 on mouse colonic ICC. PGE2 had a dual effect on pacemaker potential in the current-clamp mode. RT-PCR data suggested the expression of EP3 and EP4 receptors in colonic ICC. Low PGE2 concentrations induced membrane depolarization and generation of pacemaker activities. And this effect is mimicked by sulprostone (an EP3 agonist). The low PGE2 concentration-induced effect was inhibited by anoctamin-1 (ANO1) or a T-type Ca2+ channel blocker. Conversely, high PGE2 concentrations induced membrane hyperpolarization and blocked pacemaker potential generation. However, this inhibitory effect was blocked by an ATP-sensitive potassium (K ATP) channel blocker but not by other K+ channel blockers. Low concentrations of PGE2 activated EP3 receptors, leading to excitation of pacemaker activity through regulation of ANO1 and T-type Ca2+ channels in colonic ICC. In contrast, higher concentrations of PGE2 activated EP4 receptors and opened ATP-sensitive K+ channels, resulting in inhibition of pacemaker activity in colonic ICC.
4.Activation of the Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)ergic Neural Circuit in Salicylate-Induced Tinnitus: the Inferior Colliculus to the Medial Geniculate Body
Xu-Yuan PENG ; Jiang WANG ; Ming-Yue GONG ; Li-Yuan ZHANG ; Min ZHANG ; Zhi-Bin CHEN ; Zheng-Quan TANG ; Lei CHENG
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology 2026;19(1):55-69
Objectives:
. This study aimed to investigate the regulatory functions of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic neural circuits from the inferior colliculus (IC) to the medial geniculate body (MGB) in salicylate-induced tinnitus.
Methods:
. Mice were treated with salicylate to induce tinnitus, and tinnitus-like behaviors were evaluated via gap prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle. Using combined viral tracing methodologies, we identified and mapped the pathways and connections from the IC to the MGB. Furthermore, we employed Gq-coupled human M3 designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) and Gi-coupled human M4 DREADDs to achieve targeted excitation or suppression of GABAergic neurons in the IC and MGB. Following the administration of clozapine N-oxide, which binds to these receptors, we modulated these neural circuits to assess their impact on tinnitus severity in a mouse model.
Results:
. Our findings demonstrated that mice exposed to salicylate exhibited tinnitus-like behaviors. GABAergic neurons projecting retrogradely from the MGB to the IC were primarily concentrated in the external nucleus of the IC. After clozapine N-oxide administration, chemogenetic activation of IC-MGB GABAergic neurons aggravated salicylate-induced tinnitus. Additionally, activation of GABAergic neurons between the IC and MGB induced the perception of tinnitus even without salicylate. However, chemogenetic inhibition of the IC-MGB GABAergic circuit did not reverse salicylate-induced tinnitus.
Conclusion
. These findings suggest that activation of the IC-MGB GABAergic neural circuit may contribute to tinnitus generation through a mechanism distinct from that of salicylate-induced tinnitus. This study provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying tinnitus.
5.Target prediction and preliminary validation of quercetin in treatment of endometriosis
Yi ZHANG ; Lulu WU ; Li TANG ; Jiao CUI ; Wanjing YUAN ; Wenying GONG ; Jiao ZHU ; Xiuwei LYU
Journal of Army Medical University 2025;47(16):1913-1922
Objective To investigate the multi-target mechanisms of quercetin in treating endometriosis(EMT)through integrative network pharmacology analysis.Methods Active targets of quercetin were collected from the TCMSP database,while EMT-related differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified through the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO)dataset.A comparative analysis was conducted to pinpoint potential therapeutic targets of quercetin for EMT treatment.Functional enrichment analyses were employed to investigate the biological functions associated with these targets,and a protein-protein interaction(PPI)network was conducted to identify core targets.Molecular docking and dynamics simulations were performed to validate the binding characteristics between quercetin and the core targets.The top 2 target protein pairs,HSP90AB1 and AR,exhibiting the lowest binding energy,were selected for subsequent cellular experimental validation.Human EMT-immortalized ectopic endometrial epithelial cell line 12Z(n=6,independent replicates)was subjected,and CCK-8 assay was used to determine ehe effects of quercetin on cell viability and proliferation,and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration(IC50)was calculated at 48 h after treatment.Then the 12Z cells were treated with quercetin at a concentration gradient of 0,30,60 and 90 μmol/L,the migration and invasion abilities were assessed with cell scratch and cell invasion assays.Western blotting was conducted to detect the changes in the expression of HSP90AB1 and AR proteins after different doses of treatment.Results There were 49 potential EMT-related therapeutic targets and 10 core targets identified.Functional enrichment analyses revealed that these targets were significant enriched in inflammation-related signaling pathways,including AGE-RAGE,ErbB and TNF;immune-related pathways,such as Th17 cell differentiation,T/B cell receptor signaling;angiogenesis-related pathways like VEGF;and hormonal regulatory pathways involving estrogen and GnRH.Molecular docking demonstrated that quercetin exhibited favorable binding activity(binding energy<-5 kcal/mol)with all core target proteins,with particularly strong binding energies(<-7 kcal/mol)observed for AR,EGFR,FOS,ERBB2,and HSP90AB1.Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that quercetin forms sustained hydrogen bond interactions with AR and HSP90AB1,facilitating the formation of stable complexes.CCK-8 assay,cell scratch assay,and transwell invasion assay indicated that quercetin inhibited the proliferative activity,and migrative and invasive abilities of 12Z cells in a concentration-dependent manner,with more pronounced inhibitory effects observed at 60 and 90 μmol/L quercetin(P<0.001);Western blotting revealed that treatment of 12Z cells with varying quercetin concentrations for 48 h up-regulated the expression of HSP90AB1 and AR,with the most significant increase observed at 90 μmol/L quercetin(HSP90AB1,P<0.05;AR,P<0.001).The restored expression levels of HSP90AB1 and AR showed positive correlations with the proliferative activity,migrative and invasive abilities of ectopic endometrial cells.Conclusion Quercetin effectively addresses endometriosis through multiple molecular targets and signaling pathways,and stabilization of the HSP90AB1/AR complex and subsequent protein upregulation represents a key therapeutic mechanism.
6.Construction and validation of prediction model for cervical cancer recurrence based on systemic inflammation response index and clinicopathological parameters
Tinghong GUAN ; Chunxia GONG ; Yuan TU ; Chenfan TIAN ; Jiaxin YU ; Peng JIANG
Journal of Army Medical University 2025;47(16):1950-1961
Objective To investigate the predictive value of preoperative systemic inflammatory response index(SIRI)combined with clinicopathological parameters for postoperative recurrence in cervical cancer and to construct a prognostic model in order to optimize recurrence risk assessment.Methods Patients with cervical cancer who underwent standard surgical treatment at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University(training cohort,n=996)and Chongqing Maternal and Child Health Hospital(validation cohort,n=496)between January 2017 and January 2022 were retrospectively enrolled based on our strict inclusion and exclusion criteria.Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify independent prognostic factors for recurrence-free survival(RFS),and then a nomogram was constructed.Receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve was plotted to assess the predictive performance of the model,and the area under the curve(AUC)and calibration curve were employed to evaluate the model.Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to determine the clinical application.Results Cox regression analysis demonstrated that International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics(FIGO)stage(P<0.001),tumor size(P<0.001),pathological type(P<0.001),tumor grade(P=0.007),parametrial invasion(P<0.001),depth of myometrial invasion(P=0.019),lymphovascular space invasion(P=0.019),vaginal margin involvement(P=0.010),adjuvant therapy(P=0.012),and SIRI(P<0.001)were independent prognostic factors for RFS.Our nomogram model based on above prognostic factors exhibited superior predictive performance for 1-,3-,and 5-year RFS,with a significantly higher AUC value(0.886)than those of single-parameter models.Conclusion Our nomogram model demonstrated good accuracy in predicting RFS in cervical cancer patients,providing a potential tool for personalized clinical decision-making in recurrence risk management.
7.Clinical Efficacy and Mechanism of Shengmai Jiuxin Decoction in Treating Chronic Heart Failure with Qi and Yin Deficiency, Yang Deficiency, and Blood Stasis
Yiming YAO ; Hongjun ZHU ; Yang ZHAO ; Man SHI ; Yujin GONG ; Yuan WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(17):151-158
ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy and potential mechanism of Shengmai Jiuxin decoction in the treatment of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pattern of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis. MethodsA total of 68 patients diagnosed with ADHF of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis type were randomly assigned to an observation group (34 cases) and a control group (34 cases). Both groups received conventional Western medical treatment, while the observation group was additionally administered Shengmai Jiuxin decoction. Parameters compared before and after treatment included: TCM syndrome score, TCM syndrome efficacy, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), six-minute walk distance (6MWD), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), Caspase-3, and the number of rehospitalizations for heart failure within one month after discharge. ResultsThere were no significant differences in sex, age, vital signs, or underlying diseases between the two groups. Compared with baseline, both groups exhibited significant reductions in TCM syndrome scores, NT-proBNP, and HIF-1α levels (P<0.01), as well as significant increases in 6MWD, LVEF, VEGF-A, and Caspase-3 levels (P<0.05, P<0.01). After treatment, the observation group showed significantly greater reductions in TCM syndrome score, NT-proBNP, HIF-1α, and Caspase-3 levels compared with the control group (P<0.05) and significantly greater increases in 6MWD, TCM syndrome efficacy, and VEGF-A levels (P<0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in NYHA functional classification, LVEF, or the number of rehospitalizations for heart failure within one month after discharge. No drug-related adverse events were reported in either group during the treatment period. ConclusionShengmai Jiuxin decoction can improve cardiac function and clinical symptoms in patients with ADHF of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis type. Its mechanisms may be related to the regulation of the HIF-1 signaling pathway by modulating targets such as HIF-1α, VEGF-A, and Caspase-3.
8.Clinical Efficacy and Mechanism of Shengmai Jiuxin Decoction in Treating Chronic Heart Failure with Qi and Yin Deficiency, Yang Deficiency, and Blood Stasis
Yiming YAO ; Hongjun ZHU ; Yang ZHAO ; Man SHI ; Yujin GONG ; Yuan WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(17):151-158
ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy and potential mechanism of Shengmai Jiuxin decoction in the treatment of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pattern of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis. MethodsA total of 68 patients diagnosed with ADHF of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis type were randomly assigned to an observation group (34 cases) and a control group (34 cases). Both groups received conventional Western medical treatment, while the observation group was additionally administered Shengmai Jiuxin decoction. Parameters compared before and after treatment included: TCM syndrome score, TCM syndrome efficacy, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), six-minute walk distance (6MWD), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), Caspase-3, and the number of rehospitalizations for heart failure within one month after discharge. ResultsThere were no significant differences in sex, age, vital signs, or underlying diseases between the two groups. Compared with baseline, both groups exhibited significant reductions in TCM syndrome scores, NT-proBNP, and HIF-1α levels (P<0.01), as well as significant increases in 6MWD, LVEF, VEGF-A, and Caspase-3 levels (P<0.05, P<0.01). After treatment, the observation group showed significantly greater reductions in TCM syndrome score, NT-proBNP, HIF-1α, and Caspase-3 levels compared with the control group (P<0.05) and significantly greater increases in 6MWD, TCM syndrome efficacy, and VEGF-A levels (P<0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in NYHA functional classification, LVEF, or the number of rehospitalizations for heart failure within one month after discharge. No drug-related adverse events were reported in either group during the treatment period. ConclusionShengmai Jiuxin decoction can improve cardiac function and clinical symptoms in patients with ADHF of Qi and Yin deficiency, Yang deficiency, and blood stasis type. Its mechanisms may be related to the regulation of the HIF-1 signaling pathway by modulating targets such as HIF-1α, VEGF-A, and Caspase-3.
9.Aromatic Substances and Their Clinical Application: A Review
Yundan GUO ; Lulu WANG ; Zhili ZHANG ; Chen GUO ; Zhihong PI ; Wei GONG ; Zongping WU ; Dayu WANG ; Tianle GAO ; Cai TIE ; Yuan LIN ; Jiandong JIANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(22):264-272
Aromatherapy refers to the method of using the aromatic components of plants in appropriate forms to act on the entire body or a specific area to prevent and treat diseases. Essential oils used in aromatherapy are hydrophobic liquids containing volatile aromatic molecules, such as limonene, linalool, linalool acetate, geraniol, and citronellol. These chemicals have been extensively studied and shown to have a variety of functions, including reducing anxiety, relieving depression, promoting sleep, and providing pain relief. Terpenoids are a class of organic molecules with relatively low lipid solubility. After being inhaled, they can pass through the nasal mucosa for transfer or penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream upon local application. Some of these substances also have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, thereby exerting effects on the central nervous system. Currently, the academic community generally agrees that products such as essential oils and aromatherapy from aromatic plants have certain health benefits. However, the process of extracting a single component from it and successfully developing it into a drug still faces many challenges. Its safety and efficacy still need to be further verified through more rigorous and systematic experiments. This article systematically elaborated on the efficacy of aromatic substances, including plant extracts and natural small molecule compounds, in antibacterial and antiviral fields and the regulation of nervous system activity. As a result, a deeper understanding of aromatherapy was achieved. At the same time, the potential of these aromatic substances for drug development was thoroughly explored, providing important references and insights for possible future drug research and application.
10.Impact of milk and egg supplementation on body composition and bone mineral density of rural primary school students in Yunnan Province
Chinese Journal of School Health 2025;46(10):1401-1405
Objective:
To investigate the impact of milk and egg supplementation on body composition and bone mineral density of rural primary school students in Yunnan Province, so as to provide a reference for developing targeted nutritional intervention strategies.
Methods:
In December 2023, a cluster sampling method was adopted to select students from grades one to three in four primary schools each from Jinggu and Shidian countys of Yunnan Province, as the intervention group (662 students). Additionally, two boarding primary schools were selected from each county based on the principle of matching scale and student numbers as the control group (455 students). Starting from April 2023, the intervention group received 200 mL milk and 50 g eggs during the break on school days for 8 months, while the control group maintained their usual diet behavior. Body composition was measured by using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and distal radial bone mineral density was assessed via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in April and December 2023. The intervention effects were analyzed by using a difference in-differences approach.
Results:
The final measurements of body fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass and fat free mass of the intervention group and the control group of primary school students were significantly higher than the baseline values, and the net effect of milk and egg intervention on these body composition indicators was not statistically significant ( P >0.05, both before and after adjustment). In contrast, bone mineral density increased significantly by 0.02 g/cm 2 in the intervention group. The net intervention effect on bone mineral density was statistically significant ( β=0.02, 95%CI =0.00-0.04), and remained significant after model adjustment ( β=0.02, 95%CI =0.00-0.04) (both P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis showed statistically significant effects of the intervention among girls ( β=0.02, 95%CI =0.00-0.04), day students ( β=0.04, 95%CI =0.01-0.07), and students with normal nutritional status ( β=0.02, 95%CI =0.00-0.04) (all P <0.05). No significant effect of milk and egg supplementation was observed on body composition indicators (all P <0.05).
Conclusions
Milk and egg supplementation can improve bone mineral density among rural primary school students in Yunnan Province. It is recommended that rural school aged children should increase intake of milk and eggs to support growth and development.


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