ObjectiveDiscriminating atypical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from other malignancies in liver nodules classified as Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System category M (LR-M) remains a significant diagnostic challenge on conventional ultrasound examination. The LR-M category, originally intended to capture non-HCC malignancies, paradoxically contains up to 63% of atypical HCCs that deviate from classic enhancement patterns, leading to potential misdiagnosis and suboptimal treatment planning. While deep learning has shown promise in HCC diagnosis, most existing models rely exclusively on single-modality ultrasound, overlooking the diagnostic benefits of integrating complementary information from multiple imaging sources. To address this gap, we propose a novel attention-weighted tri-modal ultrasound network (TUS-Net) that integrates contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), B-mode ultrasound (BUS), and time-intensity curves (TICs) to improve diagnostic accuracy for these clinically challenging lesions. MethodsOur framework incorporates a three-dimensional convolutional neural network (C3D) backbone to extract spatiotemporal features from CEUS videos, capturing dynamic vascular patterns critical for lesion characterization. To effectively fuse complementary modalities, we introduce a dual-channel feature fusion module (DCFFM) that adaptively combines features from CEUS and BUS through channel-wise attention mechanisms, allowing the model to dynamically weigh the contribution of each modality based on diagnostic relevance. Additionally, we propose a temporal intensity feature fusion module (TIFFM) that leverages quantitative hemodynamic information from TICs to guide the model’s attention toward diagnostically critical temporal phases, such as arterial wash-in and portal venous washout. The model is further enhanced by automated lesion localization using YOLOX and class activation mapping for interpretability, ensuring that predictions align with clinically meaningful imaging features. ResultsEvaluated on a tri-modal ultrasound dataset comprising 161 patients with pathologically confirmed LR-M nodules (131 atypical HCC and 30 non-HCC malignancies), our model achieved an accuracy of 86.83%, a sensitivity of 92.50%, a specificity of 75.50%, and an AUC of 89.32% in screening atypical HCC. Compared to single-modality baselines, TUS-Net demonstrated superior specificity, a clinically critical metric given the higher risk associated with misclassifying non-HCC malignancies. Ablation studies confirmed the contribution of each module, with the full model outperforming both standard C3D and 3D ResNet backbones integrated with attention mechanisms. A reader study involving junior and senior radiologists further validated the clinical utility of AI assistance, showing consistent improvements in specificity and inter-reader consistency, particularly for less experienced clinicians. ConclusionThese results surpass existing benchmark models and demonstrate the potential of our approach to enhance diagnostic precision in clinically specific cases. By intelligently fusing multi-modal ultrasound data with attention-guided mechanisms, TUS-Net offers a reliable and interpretable tool that holds promise for improving the non-invasive diagnosis of atypical HCC in challenging LR-M liver nodules.

ObjectiveDiscriminating atypical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from other malignancies in liver nodules classified as Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System category M (LR-M) remains a significant diagnostic challenge on conventional ultrasound examination. The LR-M category, originally intended to capture non-HCC malignancies, paradoxically contains up to 63% of atypical HCCs that deviate from classic enhancement patterns, leading to potential misdiagnosis and suboptimal treatment planning. While deep learning has shown promise in HCC diagnosis, most existing models rely exclusively on single-modality ultrasound, overlooking the diagnostic benefits of integrating complementary information from multiple imaging sources. To address this gap, we propose a novel attention-weighted tri-modal ultrasound network (TUS-Net) that integrates contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), B-mode ultrasound (BUS), and time-intensity curves (TICs) to improve diagnostic accuracy for these clinically challenging lesions. MethodsOur framework incorporates a three-dimensional convolutional neural network (C3D) backbone to extract spatiotemporal features from CEUS videos, capturing dynamic vascular patterns critical for lesion characterization. To effectively fuse complementary modalities, we introduce a dual-channel feature fusion module (DCFFM) that adaptively combines features from CEUS and BUS through channel-wise attention mechanisms, allowing the model to dynamically weigh the contribution of each modality based on diagnostic relevance. Additionally, we propose a temporal intensity feature fusion module (TIFFM) that leverages quantitative hemodynamic information from TICs to guide the model’s attention toward diagnostically critical temporal phases, such as arterial wash-in and portal venous washout. The model is further enhanced by automated lesion localization using YOLOX and class activation mapping for interpretability, ensuring that predictions align with clinically meaningful imaging features. ResultsEvaluated on a tri-modal ultrasound dataset comprising 161 patients with pathologically confirmed LR-M nodules (131 atypical HCC and 30 non-HCC malignancies), our model achieved an accuracy of 86.83%, a sensitivity of 92.50%, a specificity of 75.50%, and an AUC of 89.32% in screening atypical HCC. Compared to single-modality baselines, TUS-Net demonstrated superior specificity, a clinically critical metric given the higher risk associated with misclassifying non-HCC malignancies. Ablation studies confirmed the contribution of each module, with the full model outperforming both standard C3D and 3D ResNet backbones integrated with attention mechanisms. A reader study involving junior and senior radiologists further validated the clinical utility of AI assistance, showing consistent improvements in specificity and inter-reader consistency, particularly for less experienced clinicians. ConclusionThese results surpass existing benchmark models and demonstrate the potential of our approach to enhance diagnostic precision in clinically specific cases. By intelligently fusing multi-modal ultrasound data with attention-guided mechanisms, TUS-Net offers a reliable and interpretable tool that holds promise for improving the non-invasive diagnosis of atypical HCC in challenging LR-M liver nodules.

Methods: Fifty patients who underwent UBE-TLIF and 50 patients who underwent W-TLIF, each with >2 years of follow-up, were retrospectively analyzed. Outcomes included operative parameters, time to postoperative mobilization, paravertebral muscle atrophy and fat infiltration rates, clinical scores (Visual Analog Scale [VAS], Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Japanese Orthopaedic Association [JOA]), modified Macnab criteria, fusion rates, and complications. Results: Compared with W-TLIF, the UBE-TLIF group had significantly less intraoperative blood loss, shorter operative times, and lower postoperative drainage volumes (p <0.05). The UBE-TLIF group showed faster postoperative recovery and shorter hospital stays. At 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years, W-TLIF patients had higher multifidus and erector spinae atrophy, and greater paravertebral muscle fat infiltration (p <0.05). The UBE-TLIF group also had lower VAS and ODI scores at 1 year and 2 years (p <0.05) and fewer surgical complications (6% vs. 10%). Fusion rates (94% vs. 92%) and modified Macnab outcomes (88% vs. 86%) were comparable (p >0.05). Conclusions UBE-TLIF is associated with reduced intraoperative trauma, quicker recovery, and fewer complications. In the long-term, it better preserves paravertebral muscle integrity and provides superior pain and functional outcomes.

Poorly differentiated and advanced thyroid cancers are characterized by high malignan-cy,progress rapidly,and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.These characteristics pose sig-nificant challenges,severely limiting effective treat-ment options.Various kinase inhibitors have been used in the treatment of refractory thyroid cancer were used accompanying by the carcinogenic mechanisms'studies investigating in thyroid cancer,such as Dabrafenib(BRAF inhibitor),Trametinib(MEK inhibitor),Vandetanib(RET inhibitor),Lenva-tinib(VEGF inhibitor),and multi-target kinase inhib-itors.However,drug resistance remains an inevita-ble issue,significantly limiting the efficacy and ap-plication of kinase inhibitors.Therapeutic approach-es such as immunotherapy,redifferentiation strate-gies for thyroid cancer,radiopharmaceutical conju-gates,and the application of nanotechnology are currently in the clinical research stage,requiring further clarification of their efficacy.Comprehen-sive understanding of therapeutic strategies and available treatment combinations for refractory thy-roid cancer is of paramount importance in the diag-nosis and treatment of thyroid cancer.Therefore,this article reviews technologies and methods for treating refractory thyroid cancer,focusing on che-motherapy,molecular targeted therapy,immuno-therapy,and radiopharmaceutical therapy,aiming to provide a reference for selecting treatment strat-egies for refractory thyroid cancer.

Objective:To investigate anxiety symptoms and associated factors in relocated elderly residents of new townships,and to provide evidence for prevention interventions.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conduc-ted in relocated elderly residents in new townships of three urban areas in Shandong Province from 2021 to 2023.The study instruments included Ascertain Dementia-8,Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7,self-administered de-mographic characteristics information questionnaire.Multivariate analysis of factors associated with anxiety symp-toms in elderly residents was performed using multivariate logistic regression.Results:The prevalence rate of mild anxiety symptoms was 5.8％,and the rate of moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms was 1.3％in 3 313 resi-dents.Multivariate analysis found that self-assessed general psychological condition(OR=0.52),good family envi-ronment(OR=0.34),no self-perceived cognitive impairment(OR=0.31),no chronic diseases(OR=0.42),and only one chronic disease(OR=0.61)were protective factors for mild anxiety symptoms,and very good dietary structure(OR=2.15)and fair dietary structure(OR=2.39)were risk factors for those.Very good family environ-ment(OR=0.11)and average family environment(OR=0.16),and no self-perceived cognitive impairment(OR=0.14)were protective factors for moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms,and 0-3 years(OR=3.24)and 4-6 years(OR=3.28)of relocation were risk factors for those.Conclusion:Family environment,dietary structure,and duration since relocation are key factors associated with anxiety symptoms among relocated elderly residents in new townships.Targeted interventions should be implemented to address their mental health needs.

Three evaluation methods were recommended for the key properties of the intravascular catheter lubricating coating such as stability,lubricity and integrity,including insoluble particle test method,friction test procedure and appearance detection method.Fifteen batches of microcatheters produced by different manufacturers were selected for testing to clarify the three methods in test principle,step,result,characteristic.References were provided for the design,production,evaluation and regulation of intravascular catheters with lubricant coatings.[Chinese Medical Equipment Journal,2025,46(1):66-72]

Objectives:This study aims to investigate the association between Chinese visceral adiposity index(CVAI)and the risk of cardiovascular disease(CVD),and explore the sex differences.Methods:Participants were screened from the three sub-cohorts of Prediction for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk in China(China-PAR)project,baseline information on body measure and biochemistry examinations were collected from 1998,2000-2001,and 2007-2008,separately.Participants were followed up to 2015.Cohort-stratified Cox proportional risk models were used to analyze the relationship between CVAI,both in continuous(per standard deviation increase)and categorical(quartiles,with Q1 as reference)scales,and CVD risk in the total population,men and women.The multiplicative interaction between sex and CVAI on CVD risk were calculated.Restricted cubic spline regression was employed to investigate the dose-response relationship.Results:A total of 98 464 participants without CVD at baseline were included.During the 723 508 person-years of follow-up,3 605 CVD events were recorded.After multivariate adjustment,the HRs(95％CIs)of CVD were 1.25(1.20-1.29),1.09(1.04-1.15),and 1.54(1.46-1.64)for per standard deviation increment in CVAI in the general population,men and women,respectively.Besides,compared with Q1 group,the HRs(95％CIs)in Q4 group were 1.87(1.67-2.10),1.33(1.14-1.54)and 3.84(3.09-4.78),correspondingly,and the effect of CVAI on the risk of CVD was significantly higher in women than in men(Pinteraction<0.05).Additionally,there was a positive dose-response relationship between CVAI and the risk of CVD.Conclusions:Elevated CVAI is an independent risk factor for CVD,especially in women.

Poorly differentiated and advanced thyroid cancers are characterized by high malignan-cy,progress rapidly,and resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.These characteristics pose sig-nificant challenges,severely limiting effective treat-ment options.Various kinase inhibitors have been used in the treatment of refractory thyroid cancer were used accompanying by the carcinogenic mechanisms'studies investigating in thyroid cancer,such as Dabrafenib(BRAF inhibitor),Trametinib(MEK inhibitor),Vandetanib(RET inhibitor),Lenva-tinib(VEGF inhibitor),and multi-target kinase inhib-itors.However,drug resistance remains an inevita-ble issue,significantly limiting the efficacy and ap-plication of kinase inhibitors.Therapeutic approach-es such as immunotherapy,redifferentiation strate-gies for thyroid cancer,radiopharmaceutical conju-gates,and the application of nanotechnology are currently in the clinical research stage,requiring further clarification of their efficacy.Comprehen-sive understanding of therapeutic strategies and available treatment combinations for refractory thy-roid cancer is of paramount importance in the diag-nosis and treatment of thyroid cancer.Therefore,this article reviews technologies and methods for treating refractory thyroid cancer,focusing on che-motherapy,molecular targeted therapy,immuno-therapy,and radiopharmaceutical therapy,aiming to provide a reference for selecting treatment strat-egies for refractory thyroid cancer.

Objective:To investigate anxiety symptoms and associated factors in relocated elderly residents of new townships,and to provide evidence for prevention interventions.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conduc-ted in relocated elderly residents in new townships of three urban areas in Shandong Province from 2021 to 2023.The study instruments included Ascertain Dementia-8,Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7,self-administered de-mographic characteristics information questionnaire.Multivariate analysis of factors associated with anxiety symp-toms in elderly residents was performed using multivariate logistic regression.Results:The prevalence rate of mild anxiety symptoms was 5.8％,and the rate of moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms was 1.3％in 3 313 resi-dents.Multivariate analysis found that self-assessed general psychological condition(OR=0.52),good family envi-ronment(OR=0.34),no self-perceived cognitive impairment(OR=0.31),no chronic diseases(OR=0.42),and only one chronic disease(OR=0.61)were protective factors for mild anxiety symptoms,and very good dietary structure(OR=2.15)and fair dietary structure(OR=2.39)were risk factors for those.Very good family environ-ment(OR=0.11)and average family environment(OR=0.16),and no self-perceived cognitive impairment(OR=0.14)were protective factors for moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms,and 0-3 years(OR=3.24)and 4-6 years(OR=3.28)of relocation were risk factors for those.Conclusion:Family environment,dietary structure,and duration since relocation are key factors associated with anxiety symptoms among relocated elderly residents in new townships.Targeted interventions should be implemented to address their mental health needs.

Objective:To investigate the relationship between lipid levels and cognitive impairment in the elderly Chinese population using prospective cohort data.Methods:Based on the China-PAR (Prediction for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk in China) cohort, this study included 24 380 individuals aged ≥60 years who participated in the cognitive function follow-up survey from 2018 to 2019. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), with cognitive impairment defined according to different educational levels: MMSE ≤17 for illiterate individuals, MMSE ≤20 for those with primary education and MMSE ≤24 for those with secondary education or above. Multivariable linear regression and logistic regression models were employed to examine the associations between six baseline lipid indicators and cognitive scores, as well as cognitive impairment. Additionally, restricted cubic splines were used to explore the exposure-dose relationship between lipid levels and cognitive function.Results:The study population had a median follow-up time of 11.6 years, with a baseline age of (59.7±6.8) years. Among the participants, 9 510 (39.0%) were males, and the mean MMSE score was 24.7±6.8. A total of 3 887 individuals (15.9%) were identified as cognitively impaired. The results of multivariable linear regression and logistic regression indicated that total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) levels were not only significantly positively associated with cognitive scores but also significantly associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment. Each 1 mmol/L increase in these lipid levels corresponded to β values (95% CI) of 0.267 (0.173-0.361), 0.385(0.271-0.499) and 0.331(0.231-0.431), respectively. Each 1 mmol/L increase in these lipid levels corresponded to odds ratio ( OR) (95% CI) values of 0.915 (0.876-0.956), 0.875 (0.830-0.923) and 0.886 (0.848-0.927), respectively. The dose-response curve demonstrated that the negative association was primarily observed within the guideline-recommended optimal lipid level range. Specifically, when LDL-C was less than 3.4 mmol/L and non-HDL-C was less than 4.1 mmol/L, the corresponding OR (95% CI) values were 0.859 (0.796-0.926) and 0.876 (0.818-0.939). Conclusion:Lipid levels exhibit a certain linear negative association with cognitive impairment in elderly Chinese adults, with LDL-C and non-HDL-C demonstrating a stronger effect, particularly within the guideline-recommended optimal range.