1.Pathogenesis Evolution of Atherosclerosis Induced by Novel Turbid-toxin Microplastics from Perspective of "Body Fluids and Blood Stasis Mixing"
He GUO ; Ying YANG ; Yi ZHENG ; Zhichao CHEN ; Huan ZHANG ; Ying ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(13):253-260
From the theoretical perspective of "body fluids and blood stasis mixing", environmental microplastics (MPs) are conceptualized as a "novel turbid-toxin". This study aims to elucidate the complete pathogenic pathway through which MPs act as a key driving force (the "crucible" of pathogenesis) in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis (AS). By tracing the classical theories in the Chapter The Occurrence of All Diseases of Miraculous Pivot (Ling Shu), this paper clarifies the core connotations of "body fluids"-it not only refers to endogenous pathological fluids and lipid turbidity but also provides a theoretical basis for incorporating "exogenous turbid fluids", thereby laying a logical foundation for conceptualizing MPs as a "novel turbid-toxin". Meanwhile, the implications of "blood" (encompassing both blood quality abnormalities and blood stasis) and the dynamic process of "mixing" are elucidated. Drawing upon modern toxicological evidence, this paper demonstrates the high homology between MPs and "exogenous turbid-fluids" from three aspects: Morphology, toxicity, and invasion routes. The micro/nano-scale particle morphology of MPs enables mobility within the bloodstream. The multiple exposure pathways of MPs correspond to the traditional Chinese medicine understanding of pathogens invading through the mouth, nose, and skin. The characteristics of accumulating in vivo while inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses of MPs fully embody the pathogenic features-adhesion, binding, and vessel damage-of "turbid-toxin". On this basis, the dynamic pathogenesis of MP-induced AS is systematically interpreted. Initially, MPs with the "turbid-toxin" nature impair nutrient-defense harmony and cause endothelial dysfunction. Subsequently, as the core of "mixing", they interact with blood lipids and immune cells, generating heat and phlegm to form a major pathological hub of chronic inflammation. Ultimately, this process drives the coalescence of phlegm, stasis, and turbid-toxin into tangible plaques, evolving from stable lesions to vulnerable masses and accumulations. By integrating classical pathogenic model with contemporary environmental medicine, this study establishes an analytical framework that bridges macro-theory and micro-mechanisms for understanding the cardiovascular risks of MPs through an integrative Chinese-Western medicine lens.
2.Analysis of Differences in Cortical Activation Areas and Functional Connectivity During Speech in Young People Under Different Cognitive Loads
Zihui JIANG ; Xiuen CHEN ; Jiejiao ZHENG ; Yongjun ZHENG ; Yunyun ZHANG ; Xiangyun LIU ; Liwen QIU ; Chenchen ZHANG ; Zhichao NING
Journal of Audiology and Speech Pathology 2025;33(1):40-45
Objective To investigate the differences in cortical activation and functional connectivity during speech under different cognitive loads in young individuals.Methods Twenty-one participants(mean age 21.9±1.33 years)were instructed to read short sentences embedded with color words under both congruent(where the color words matched the font color)and incongruent(where the color words did not match the font color)condi-tions.The color words required reading the font color instead of the word itself.Functional near-infrared spectros-copy(fNIRS)was utilized to analyze differences in cortical activation(changes in HbO concentration)and functional connectivity(Pearson correlation of HbO between brain regions)in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex(DLPFC)and supplementary motor area(SMA)bilaterally.Results The fNIRS results revealed significant increase in HbO con-centration changes in the RDLPFC(t=3.4,P=0.003),LDLPFC(t=2.58,P=0.019),RSMA(t=3.59,P=0.002),and LSMA(t=4.06,P=0.001)under the incongruent condition compared to the congruent condition.Additionally,there was a significant enhancement in the correlation between RDLPFC and LDLPFC(t=2.44,P=0.025).However,the differences in correlation between left and right SMA,as well as between SMA and DLPFC,were not statistically significant(P>0.05).Conclusion These findings suggest that during speech under incongru-ent conditions,increased cognitive load leads to elevated cortical activation in the DLPFC and SMA,along with in-creased functional connectivity between the left and right DLPFC.
3.Discussion on the Treatment Formulas of Classical Prescriptions for Treating Type-2 Diabetes Secondary to Depression from the Theory of"Thirst Caused by Depression"
Zhichao ZHENG ; Mingze ZHENG ; Yujia LIU
Journal of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University 2025;49(2):235-240
[Objective]To explore the prevention and treatment of type-2 diabetes(T2DM)secondary to depression by using classical formulas,based on the theory of"thirst induced by depression"as described in the Huangdi Neijing,and systematically review relevant texts in traditional Chinese medicine literature.[Methods]Utilizing the"thirst induced by depression"theory from the Huangdi Neijing,this study employs literature research to analyze ancient texts such as Jingui Yaolue,Zhubing Yuanhou Lun and Shennong Bencao Jing for theoretical support regarding the causes,pathogenesis and transmission of depressive syndromes and consumption disorders.This foundation allows for an exploration of the mechanisms through which depressive syndromes lead to consumption and the therapeutic strategies for managing T2DM secondary to depression in clinical practice.Finally,a test case was attached to support it.[Results]The concept of"Yin syndrome"characterized by"weakened organ Qi"shares a common pathological basis with"consumption",particularly during the"weakened five organs"stage.The pathological progression is similar to that seen in the development of T2DM secondary to depression.Specifically,the"Yin syndrome"associated with"weakened organ Qi"may evolve into a consumption syndrome due to prolonged Qi stagnation and increasing heat.Therefore,based on the pathological sequence of"fluid deficiency—Qi stagnation—heat transformation",the entire pathological process of depression leading to T2DM can be categorized into three stages for diagnosis and treatment:"early stage—progressive stage—end stage".The attached test case was of hot Qi stagnation and fluid injury type depression,treated to relieve heat for notifying fluid,clearing Qi and relieving depression,administered with revised Lily Powder and achieved good curative effect.[Conclusion]In the early stage of depression leading to T2DM,the primary condition is fluid and blood deficiency,treated by nourishing fluids,with reference to the Baihe Dihuang Decoction.During the progressive stage,Qi stagnation predominates alongside fluid deficiency,treated by regulating Qi and resolving stagnation,with references to the Chaihu Baihe Decoction.In the end stage,characterized by internal heat,the treatment focuses on clearing heat and nourishing fluids,with representative formulas including Guolou Muli San and Baihe San,depending on the presence or absence of Qi stagnation.
4.Recommendations for Standardized Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis of Animal Experiments
Qingyong ZHENG ; Donghua YANG ; Zhichao MA ; Ziyu ZHOU ; Yang LU ; Jingyu WANG ; Lina XING ; Yingying KANG ; Li DU ; Chunxiang ZHAO ; Baoshan DI ; Jinhui TIAN
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2025;45(4):496-507
Animal experiments are an essential component of life sciences and medical research. However, the external validity and reliability of individual animal studies are frequently challenged by inherent limitations such as small sample sizes, high design heterogeneity, and poor reproducibility, which impede the effective translation of research findings into clinical practice. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis represent a key methodology for integrating existing evidence and enhancing the robustness of conclusions. Currently, however, the application of systematic reviews and meta-analysis in the field of animal experiments lacks standardized guidelines for their conduct and reporting, resulting in inconsistent quality and, to some extent, diminishing their evidence value. To address this issue, this paper aims to systematically delineate the reporting process for systematic reviews and meta-analysis of animal experiments and to propose a set of standardized recommendations that are both scientific and practical. The article's scope encompasses the entire process, from the preliminary preparatory phase [including formulating the population, intervention, comparison and outcome (PICO) question, assessing feasibility, and protocol pre-registration] to the key writing points for each section of the main report. In the core methods section, the paper elaborates on how to implement literature searches, establish eligibility criteria, perform data extraction, and assess the risk of bias, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement, in conjunction with relevant guidelines and tools such as Animal Research: Reporting of in Vivo Experiments (ARRIVE) and a risk of bias assessment tool developed by the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE). For the presentation of results, strategies are proposed for clear and transparent display using flow diagrams and tables of characteristics. The discussion section places particular emphasis on how to scientifically interpret pooled effects, thoroughly analyze sources of heterogeneity, evaluate the impact of publication bias, and cautiously discuss the validity and limitations of extrapolating findings from animal studies to clinical settings. Furthermore, this paper recommends adopting the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology to comprehensively grade the quality of evidence. Through a modular analysis of the entire reporting process, this paper aims to provide researchers in the field with a clear and practical guide, thereby promoting the standardized development of systematic reviews and meta-analysis of animal experiments and enhancing their application value in scientific decision-making and translational medicine.
5.Analysis of Differences in Cortical Activation Areas and Functional Connectivity During Speech in Young People Under Different Cognitive Loads
Zihui JIANG ; Xiuen CHEN ; Jiejiao ZHENG ; Yongjun ZHENG ; Yunyun ZHANG ; Xiangyun LIU ; Liwen QIU ; Chenchen ZHANG ; Zhichao NING
Journal of Audiology and Speech Pathology 2025;33(1):40-45
Objective To investigate the differences in cortical activation and functional connectivity during speech under different cognitive loads in young individuals.Methods Twenty-one participants(mean age 21.9±1.33 years)were instructed to read short sentences embedded with color words under both congruent(where the color words matched the font color)and incongruent(where the color words did not match the font color)condi-tions.The color words required reading the font color instead of the word itself.Functional near-infrared spectros-copy(fNIRS)was utilized to analyze differences in cortical activation(changes in HbO concentration)and functional connectivity(Pearson correlation of HbO between brain regions)in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex(DLPFC)and supplementary motor area(SMA)bilaterally.Results The fNIRS results revealed significant increase in HbO con-centration changes in the RDLPFC(t=3.4,P=0.003),LDLPFC(t=2.58,P=0.019),RSMA(t=3.59,P=0.002),and LSMA(t=4.06,P=0.001)under the incongruent condition compared to the congruent condition.Additionally,there was a significant enhancement in the correlation between RDLPFC and LDLPFC(t=2.44,P=0.025).However,the differences in correlation between left and right SMA,as well as between SMA and DLPFC,were not statistically significant(P>0.05).Conclusion These findings suggest that during speech under incongru-ent conditions,increased cognitive load leads to elevated cortical activation in the DLPFC and SMA,along with in-creased functional connectivity between the left and right DLPFC.
6.Discussion on the Treatment Formulas of Classical Prescriptions for Treating Type-2 Diabetes Secondary to Depression from the Theory of"Thirst Caused by Depression"
Zhichao ZHENG ; Mingze ZHENG ; Yujia LIU
Journal of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University 2025;49(2):235-240
[Objective]To explore the prevention and treatment of type-2 diabetes(T2DM)secondary to depression by using classical formulas,based on the theory of"thirst induced by depression"as described in the Huangdi Neijing,and systematically review relevant texts in traditional Chinese medicine literature.[Methods]Utilizing the"thirst induced by depression"theory from the Huangdi Neijing,this study employs literature research to analyze ancient texts such as Jingui Yaolue,Zhubing Yuanhou Lun and Shennong Bencao Jing for theoretical support regarding the causes,pathogenesis and transmission of depressive syndromes and consumption disorders.This foundation allows for an exploration of the mechanisms through which depressive syndromes lead to consumption and the therapeutic strategies for managing T2DM secondary to depression in clinical practice.Finally,a test case was attached to support it.[Results]The concept of"Yin syndrome"characterized by"weakened organ Qi"shares a common pathological basis with"consumption",particularly during the"weakened five organs"stage.The pathological progression is similar to that seen in the development of T2DM secondary to depression.Specifically,the"Yin syndrome"associated with"weakened organ Qi"may evolve into a consumption syndrome due to prolonged Qi stagnation and increasing heat.Therefore,based on the pathological sequence of"fluid deficiency—Qi stagnation—heat transformation",the entire pathological process of depression leading to T2DM can be categorized into three stages for diagnosis and treatment:"early stage—progressive stage—end stage".The attached test case was of hot Qi stagnation and fluid injury type depression,treated to relieve heat for notifying fluid,clearing Qi and relieving depression,administered with revised Lily Powder and achieved good curative effect.[Conclusion]In the early stage of depression leading to T2DM,the primary condition is fluid and blood deficiency,treated by nourishing fluids,with reference to the Baihe Dihuang Decoction.During the progressive stage,Qi stagnation predominates alongside fluid deficiency,treated by regulating Qi and resolving stagnation,with references to the Chaihu Baihe Decoction.In the end stage,characterized by internal heat,the treatment focuses on clearing heat and nourishing fluids,with representative formulas including Guolou Muli San and Baihe San,depending on the presence or absence of Qi stagnation.
7.Clinicopathological factors and clinical significance of No.12b lymph node metastasis in gastric antrum cancer
Bao ZHANG ; Guoliang ZHENG ; Yong ZHANG ; Yan ZHAO ; Haitao ZHU ; Tao ZHANG ; Yong LIU ; Zhichao ZHENG
Chinese Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery 2024;27(2):167-174
Objective:To investigate the clinicopathological factors and clinical significance of (micro)metastasis in No.12b lymph node in patients with gastric antrum cancer.Methods:This was a retrospective cohort study of data of 242 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma without distant metastasis, complete follow-up data, and no preoperative anti-tumor therapy or history of other malignancies. All study patients had undergone radical gastrectomy (at least D2 radical range) + No.12b lymph node dissection in the Department of Gastric Surgery of Liaoning Cancer Hospital from January 2007 to December 2012. Immunohistochemical staining with antibody CK8/18 was used to detect micrometastasis to lymph nodes. Patients with positive findings on hematoxylin and eosin stained specimens and/or CK8/18 positivity in No.12b lymph node were diagnosed as having No.12b (micro)metastasis and included in the No.12b positive group. All other patients were classified as 12b negative. We investigated the impact of No.12b (micro)metastasis by comparing the clinicopathological characteristics and recurrence free survival (RFS) of these two groups of patients and subjecting possible risk factors to statistical analysis.Results:Traditional hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that 15/242 patients were positive for No.12b lymph nodes and 227 were negative. A total of 241 negative No. 12b lymph nodes were detected. Immunohistochemical testing revealed that seven of these 241 No.12b lymph nodes (2.9%) were positive for micrometastasis. A further seven positive nodes were identified among the 227 nodes (3.1%) that had been evaluated as negative on hematoxylin–eosin-stained sections. Thus, 22 /242 patients' (9.1%) No.12b nodes were positive for micrometastases, the remaining 220 (90.9%) being negative. Factor analysis showed that No.12b lymph node (micro) metastasis is associated with more severe invasion of the gastric serosa (HR=3.873, 95%CI: 1.676-21.643, P=0.006), T3 stage (HR=1.615, 95%CI: 1.113-1.867, P=0.045), higher N stage (HR=1.768, 95%CI: 1.187-5.654, P=0.019), phase III of TNM stage (HR=2.129, 95%CI: 1.102-3.475, P=0.046), and lymph node metastasis in the No.1/No.8a/No.12a groups (HR=0.451, 95%CI: 0.121-0.552, P=0.035; HR=0.645, 95%CI:0.071-0.886, P=0.032; HR=1.512, 95%CI: 1.381-2.100, P=0.029, respectively). Survival analysis showed that the 5-year RFS of patients in the No.12b positive group was worse than that of those in the No.12b negative group (18.2% vs. 34.5%, P<0.001). Independent predictors of RFS were poorer differentiation of the primary tumor (HR=0.528, 95%CI:0.288-0.969, P=0.039), more severe serous invasion (HR=1.262, 95%CI:1.039-1.534, P=0.019), higher T/N/TNM stage (HR=4.880, 95%CI: 1.909-12.476, P<0.001; HR=2.332, 95%CI: 1.640-3.317, P<0.001; HR=0.139, 95%CI: 0.027-0.713, P=0.018, respectively), and lymph node metastasis in the No.12a/No.12b group(HR=0.698, 95%CI:0.518-0.941, P=0.018; HR=0.341, 95%CI:0.154-0.758, P=0.008, respectively). Conclusion:Detection of micrometastasis can improve the rate of positive lymph nodes. In patients with gastric antrum cancer, dissection of group No.12b lymph nodes may improve the prognosis of those with intraoperative evidence of tumor invasion into the serosa, more than two lymph node metastases, and suspicious lymph nodes in groups No.1 / No.8a / 12a.
8.Advances and Challenges in the Research of Integration Methods of Animal Experimental Evidence
Qingyong ZHENG ; Tengfei LI ; Jianguo XU ; Yongjia ZHOU ; Zhichao MA ; Na WANG ; Molan LI ; Wenjing YANG ; Peirun WU ; Haidong WANG ; Jinhui TIAN
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2024;44(5):567-576
Integrating evidence from animal experiments is a critical component of biomedical research, providing essential prior information for in-depth investigations of disease mechanisms and new drug development. Animal models have played an irreplaceable role in simulating human diseases. However, the integration of evidence from animal experiments has faced numerous challenges, including insufficient emphasis, significant heterogeneity in study designs, high publication bias, and discrepancies with clinical research practices. This paper first identifies existing issues in the original research evidence from animal experiments, such as the selection and applicability of animal models, considerations in the design of experimental studies, and factors influencing the translation of animal experimental evidence. It then discusses various methods for integrating this evidence, including systematic review and meta-analysis, overview of systematic review/umbrella review, scoping review, and evidence mapping, while highlighting recent advancements in their application. Finally, the paper addresses the main challenges currently encountered in the integration of evidence from animal experiments and proposes targeted improvement strategies aimed at enhancing the efficiency of translating research outcomes into clinical practice and promoting the advancement of evidence-based medicine. By continuously optimizing original experimental research protocols and evidence integration practices, this work aims to establish a more efficient and scientific environment for the synthesis of evidence from animal experiments, ultimately contributing to clinical trials and human health.
9.Gene therapy strategies and prospects for neurofibromatosis type 1.
Tingting ZHENG ; Beiyao ZHU ; Zhichao WANG ; Qingfeng LI
Chinese Journal of Reparative and Reconstructive Surgery 2024;38(1):1-8
OBJECTIVE:
To summarize the gene therapy strategies for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and related research progress.
METHODS:
The recent literature on gene therapy for NF1 at home and abroad was reviewed. The structure and function of the NF1 gene and its mutations were analyzed, and the current status as well as future prospects of the transgenic therapy and gene editing strategies were summarized.
RESULTS:
NF1 is an autosomal dominantly inherited tumor predisposition syndrome caused by mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene, which impair the function of the neurofibromin and lead to the disease. It has complex clinical manifestations and is not yet curable. Gene therapy strategies for NF1 are still in the research and development stage. Existing studies on the transgenic therapy for NF1 have mainly focused on the construction and expression of the GTPase-activating protein-related domain in cells that lack of functional neurofibromin, confirming the feasibility of the transgenic therapy for NF1. Future research may focus on split adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene delivery, oversized AAV gene delivery, and the development of new vectors for targeted delivery of full-length NF1 cDNA. In addition, the gene editing tools of the new generation have great potential to treat monogenic genetic diseases such as NF1, but need to be further validated in terms of efficiency and safety.
CONCLUSION
Gene therapy, including both the transgenic therapy and gene editing, is expected to become an important new therapeutic approach for NF1 patients.
Humans
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Neurofibromatosis 1/pathology*
;
Neurofibromin 1/metabolism*
;
GTPase-Activating Proteins
;
Mutation
;
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
;
Genetic Therapy
10.Preparation and characterization of methacryloylated hyaluronic acid/acellular Wharton's jelly composite hydrogel scaffold
Xun YUAN ; Zhengang DING ; Liwei FU ; Jiang WU ; Yazhe ZHENG ; Zhichao ZHANG ; Guangzhao TIAN ; Xiang SUI ; Shuyun LIU ; Quanyi GUO
Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research 2024;28(22):3517-3523
BACKGROUND:As tissue engineering brings new hope to the worldwide problem of articular cartilage repair,the construction of light-curing 3D printed hydrogel scaffolds with biomimetic composition is of great significance for cartilage tissue engineering. OBJECTIVE:To construct a biomimetic methacryloylated hyaluronic acid/acellular Wharton's jelly composite hydrogel scaffold by digital light processing 3D printing technology,and to evaluate its biocompatibility. METHODS:Wharton's jelly was isolated and extracted from human umbilical cord,then decellulated,freeze-dried,ground into powder,and dissolved in PBS to prepare 50 g/L acellular Wharton's jelly solution.Methylallylated hyaluronic acid was prepared,lyophilized and dissolved in PBS to prepare 50 g/L methylallylated hyaluronic acid solution.Acellular Wharton's jelly solution was mixed with methacrylyacylated hyaluronic acid solution at a volume ratio of 1:1,and was used as bio-ink after adding photoinitiator.Methylacrylylated hyaluronic acid hydrogel scaffolds(labeled as HAMA hydrogel scaffolds)and methylacrylylated hyaluronic acid/acellular Wharton's jelly gel scaffolds(labeled as HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffolds)were prepared by digital light processing 3D printing technology,and the microstructure,swelling performance,biocompatibility,and cartilage differentiation performance of the scaffolds were characterized. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:(1)Under scanning electron microscope,the two groups of scaffolds showed a three-dimensional network structure,and the fiber connection of HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold was more uniform.Both groups achieved swelling equilibrium within 10 hours,and the equilibrium swelling ratio of HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold was lower than that of HAMA hydrogel scaffold(P<0.05).(2)CCK-8 assay showed that HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold could promote the proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells compared with HAMA hydrogel scaffold.Dead/live staining showed that bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells grew well on the two groups of scaffolds,and the cells on the HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffolds were evenly distributed and more cells were found.Phalloidine staining showed better adhesion and spread of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold than in HAMA.(3)Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were inoculated into the two groups for chondrogenic induction culture.The results of qRT-PCR showed that the mRNA expressions of agglutinoglycan,SOX9 and type Ⅱ collagen in the HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold group were higher than those in the HAMA hydrogel scaffold group(P<0.05,P<0.01).(4)These findings indicate that the digital light processing 3D bioprinting HAMA/WJ hydrogel scaffold can promote the proliferation,adhesion,and chondrogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.

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