Background::Type 2 diabetes (T2D), but not type 1, protected against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In T2D serum insulin is normal or elevated in the early stages. Type 1 diabetes, characterized by a total lack of insulin, is associated with an increased risk of ALS. The antidiabetic metformin also protects against ALS. Connexin 43 (Cx43), an astrocyte protein, operates as an open channel via which toxic substances from astrocytes reach motor neurons to cause ALS.Methods::In the current study we analyzed FDA MedWatch data to determine whether insulin or metformin could reduce the risk of ALS. We performed in silico molecular docking studies and molecular dynamics simulation with Cx43 to determine if insulin or metformin dock within the Cx43 channel and can block it effectively, again reducing risk of ALS.Results::In MedWatch, Insulin use is associated with a significantly reduced risk of ALS (Proportional Reporting Ratio 0.401). Metformin use is associated with a significantly reduced risk of ALS (PRR 0.567). The Human insulin heterodimer docked within center of the Cx43 channel, effectively blocking it. Molecular dynamics simulation showed that the block is highly stable and may be responsible for the protective effect of T2D on ALS. Metformin docks within the Cx43 channel, but the relatively small size of the metformin molecule may not allow it to obstruct the passage of toxic substances from astrocytes to motor neurons.Conclusion::MedWatch data indicate that both insulin and metformin reduce risk of ALS. The results of our in silico docking study and molecular dynamics simulation corroborate our previous findings with Cx31. Insulin docks within the open hemichannel of hexameric Cx43, potentially blocking it. Molecular dynamics simulation showed that the block is stable and may be responsible for the protective effect of T2D and insulin on ALS.

Background::Computer-aided detection (CAD) software has been introduced to automatically interpret digital chest X-rays. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of CAD software (JF CXR-1 v3.0, which was developed by a domestic Hi-tech enterprise) in tuberculosis (TB) case finding in China.Methods::In 2019, we conducted an internal evaluation of the performance of JF CXR-1 v3.0 by reading standard images annotated by a panel of experts. In 2020, using the reading results of chest X-rays by a panel of experts as the reference standard, we conducted an on-site prospective study to evaluate the performance of JF CXR-1 v3.0 and local radiologists in TB case finding in 13 township health centers in Zhongmu County, Henan Province.Results::Internal assessment results based on 277 standard images showed that JF CXR-1 v3.0 had a sensitivity of 85.94% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 77.42%, 94.45%) and a specificity of 74.65% (95% CI: 68.81%, 80.49%) to distinguish active TB from other imaging conditions. In the on-site evaluation phase, images from 3705 outpatients who underwent chest X-ray detection were read by JF CXR-1 v3.0 and local radiologists in parallel. The imaging diagnosis of local radiologists for active TB had a sensitivity of 32.89% (95% CI: 22.33%, 43.46%) and a specificity of 99.28% (95% CI: 99.01%, 99.56%), while JF CXR-1 v3.0 showed a significantly higher sensitivity of 92.11% (95% CI: 86.04%, 98.17%) ( p < 0.05) and maintained high specificity at 94.54% (95% CI: 93.81%, 95.28%). Conclusions::CAD software could play a positive role in improving the TB case finding capability of township health centers.

Wearable technology in the management of chronic diseases has emerged as a significant and growing concern in healthcare. These technologies, including smartwatches, fitness trackers, and other sensor-based devices, offer continuous monitoring and real-time data collection for individuals with chronic conditions. The data collected can include vital signs, activity levels, sleep patterns, and more, providing valuable insights into a patient's health. This trend is particularly relevant in the context of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and respiratory disorders, where continuous monitoring is crucial for effective management. Wearable devices empower patients to actively participate in their healthcare by facilitating self-monitoring and promoting healthy behaviors. Healthcare providers can also leverage the data generated by these devices to make informed decisions, personalize treatment plans, and intervene proactively. However, challenges exist, such as data security and privacy concerns, the accuracy of the collected information, and the need for effective integration into existing healthcare systems. Despite these challenges, the increasing adoption of wearable technology in chronic disease management reflects a promising avenue for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs through preventive and personalized care.

Background::Statins are the first line of treatment for dyslipidemia, but their side effects often reduce medication compliance. Natto and red yeast rice are natural ingredients with lipid-lowering effects. However, the efficacy of Natto Red Yeast Rice (NRYR) supplement in combination with statins in regulating blood lipid levels has not been fully evaluated.Methods::A multicenter, double-blinded, randomized-controlled trial was conducted among individuals with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of 3.4 to 5.0 mmol/L at six sites in China, of those at moderate risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) are prioritized. Participants are enrolled and randomly assigned into four groups by a combination of NRYR (or its placebo) and Simvastatin (or its placebo) in a ratio of 1:1:1:1. After examination at baseline, all participants underwent intervention for 3 months and two follow-up visits at 1 month and 3 months after the intervention. The primary outcome is the change in LDL-C level at 3 months, and secondary outcomes include changes in levels of other lipid profiles and biomarkers, as well as calculated 10-year CVD risk. A total of 1136 participants were randomly assigned, of whom 1110 received the intervention.Discussion::This study may provide new evidence for the efficacy of NRYR supplement in combination with statins to regulate lipid levels and optimize lipid management.Trial Registration::Chinese Clinical Trial Registry database: registration nos. ChiCTR2200064214, ChiCTR2200064215.

Background::The increasing incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presents significant medical and societal challenges. A well-designed IBD database is crucial for both epidemiological studies and clinical management. However, inconsistencies between regional databases hinder cross-institutional and international research, especially between Eastern and Western societies.Methods::We developed a new IBD database, the 301 IBD database, integrating the IBD clinical characteristics from the Penn IBD database (USA) and the latest IBD guidelines and consensus and clinical practices of the Chinese PLA General Hospital (PLAGH). We applied this database to analyze clinical data of IBD inpatients at PLAGH from 2008 to 2023.Results::The 301 IBD database contains 490 items in 6 sections including demographic characteristics, personal history, clinical phenotype, disease activity, laboratory tests and examinations, and treatment. Features of the 301 IBD database include inpatient focus, biochemical indicators and opportunistic infection focus, and more about ulcerative colitis (UC)-associated complications. Single-center analysis revealed an increasing hospitalization trend, from 2.35% in 2008 to 3.94% in 2023. We found that the clinical characteristics of our UC inpatients are predominantly male (62.5%), extensive lesions (55.1%), low usage of biologics (4.1%), and a high incidence of UC-CRC (3.0%). The clinical characteristics of CD inpatients included male predominance (68.39%), early onset age (35.43 ± 14.75-year-old), and high rate of surgery (25.81%).Conclusion::The 301 IBD database, integrating Eastern and Western clinical data, provides a valuable tool for IBD clinical research. Future international, multicenter collaborations are expected to further enhance its utility.

Tislelizumab is a next-generation PD-1 monoclonal antibody developed to overcome the limitations of earlier immune checkpoint inhibitors. By eliminating Fcγ receptor binding, it avoids macrophage-mediated T-cell clearance and enhances the antitumor immune response. Unlike conventional PD-1 inhibitors, tislelizumab binds to PD-1 in a way that more closely mimics the natural PD-L1 interaction, potentially improving efficacy and reducing immune-related toxicity. This review highlights its structural advantages, clinical efficacy across multiple cancers, and recent global regulatory approvals. We also discuss key pharmacokinetic features and current challenges, including the need for predictive biomarkers, immune-related adverse events, and combination therapy strategies. Together, these insights may guide the more effective and safer use of tislelizumab in cancer immunotherapy.

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have made significant progress in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, mAbs are associated with adverse effects, including Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormality (ARIA), which manifests as edema or effusion (ARIA-E) and hemorrhage (ARIA-H). The mechanisms behind these effects are not yet fully understood. Moreover, spontaneous ARIA has been insufficiently explored, and mAb therapies, particularly lecanemab, have mainly focused on patients with the APOE-ε4 allele carrier. This review aims to address this gap by examining the mechanisms of spontaneous ARIA, ARIA induced by mAbs, and the influence of genetic variants on ARIA development. The autoantibody-Aβ-mediated immune response targets excessive Aβ deposits, increasing immune activity through microglial reactivity. The heightened immune response, driven by Aβ accumulation in blood vessels, promotes angiopathy and inflammation, potentially contributing to spontaneous ARIA. The APOE-ε4 allele carrier is more strongly associated with ARIA-E because it redistributes Aβ deposition from the brain to blood vessels, influencing microglial reactivity. The redistribution enhances vascular integrity and reduces the risk of ARIA-H. However, it also increases the likelihood of ARIA-E due to Aβ accumulation in the vasculature, triggering inflammation. In contrast, the development of ARIA-H is linked to increased TREM2 expression and microglial reactivity, leading to impaired vascular integrity and disrupted matrix remodeling, which worsens the condition. Additionally, the adverse effects of mAbs may extend beyond the APOE-ε4 allele, possibly impacting other genetic variants involved in microglial reactivity, Aβ redistribution, and vascular integrity.

Background::Elevated high blood pressure is controlled by complicated, little-understood genetic and epigenetic pathways that are influenced by both heritable and environmental variables. Many adult systolic and diastolic blood pressure-related genomic loci have been identified through previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS); meanwhile, studies specifically on Asian adult populations have not been done. This study aims to comprehensively assess and summarize any gene changes that have been studied and see whether there is a possible influence between epigenetic changes and hypertension in Asian adults.Methods::This evidence-based analysis is based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement and has been registered in PROSPERO under registration number [CRD42024622261]. The data were processed qualitatively to assess the risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and Agency for Health Research and Quality (AHRQ) standards as the threshold. Our study in particular shows that epigenetic modifications may play a role in hypertension, particularly in Asian individuals.Results::A total of 28 studies were selected for qualitative evaluation. In the adult Asian population, 26 publications (92.8%) reported a relationship between blood pressure and epigenetics. Every study describes a distinct gene or location associated with hypo- or hypermethylation. Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure was linked to variations of several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), cytosine phosphate guanines (CPGs), and other monogenic genes.Conclusion::Alterations in epigenetic modifications in potential genes or loci are linked to systolic and diastolic blood pressure of Asian adult populations.

Background::Precise risk prediction of chronic diseases is essential for effective preventive care and management. Machine learning (ML) is a promising avenue to enhance chronic disease risk prediction; however, a comprehensive assessment of ML performance across various chronic diseases, populations, and health settings is needed.Methods::This meta-analysis aims to synthesize evidence on the performance of ML techniques for predicting the risks and outcomes of chronic diseases. A literature search was conducted through PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Medline, and Embase. Studies applying ML techniques to predict chronic disease risks or outcomes and reporting performance metrics were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analysis, subgroup analyses, and meta-regression were performed to estimate pooled performance and explore heterogeneity.Discussion::This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of the performance of ML techniques in predicting the risks and consequences of chronic diseases. We reported the pooled estimates of performance metrics, such as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), sensitivity, specificity, and F1 score, for each chronic disease. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression identified factors that influence the performance of ML models, such as the ML algorithm, sample size, and data type. This meta-analysis synthesized evidence on ML techniques for chronic disease risk prediction, guiding the development of robust and generalizable ML-based tools. By identifying best practices and addressing challenges, this work advances predictive analytics in healthcare, facilitates translation into clinical practice, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Background::The ratio of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) predicts cardiovascular disease (CVD) endpoints, yet its prognostic validity in high-risk populations and for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-related adverse events remains unestablished.Methods::This study included 32,609 people aged 35-75 years in Fujian Province, China, who were at high risk for CVD. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality during follow-up. Cox proportional hazard models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis were used to evaluate the correlation between the HDL-C/LDL-C ratio and the endpoints.Result::On the basis of the restricted RCS curve, the participants were classified as having a low (< 0.3), middle (0.3-0.5), or high (> 0.5) HDL-C/LDL-C ratio. Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that the risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.14-1.93, p < 0.01 for low; HR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.06-1.58, p < 0.05 for high) was increased in the low and high groups. Participants without T2DM who were at high risk for CVD had similar prognoses (HR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.19-2.28, p < 0.01 for low; HR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.05-1.74, p < 0.01 for high). However, this association was not found in participants with T2DM who were at high risk for CVD. Conclusion::HDL-C/LDL-C can be used to predict the prognosis of individuals at high risk for CVD, and maintaining HDL-C/LDL-C ratios between 0.3 and 0.5 may be the most helpful range for this population. Furthermore, maintaining this ratio range holds clinical significance for cohorts without T2DM, although further exploration is needed in this T2DM cohort.