ObjectiveIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the foundational doctrine that the eyes reflect the essence of the internal viscera establishes ocular observation as a cornerstone of diagnostic practice. Specifically, the morphological characteristics and coloration variations of the scleral microvasculature serve as critical clinical indicators for assessing the dynamic balance of Qi and Blood, as well as the pathological status of internal organs. Historically, however, TCM eye diagnosis has relied predominantly on the subjective clinical experience and visual acuity of individual practitioners, leading to inherent challenges in standardization and reproducibility. While automated computer-aided diagnostic systems offer a promising solution, existing vessel segmentation algorithms encounter significant domain-specific bottlenecks when applied to scleral imagery. These challenges primarily stem from the highly reflective and moist nature of the ocular surface, which generates severe reflective interference. Furthermore, the inherent low contrast of fine capillary networks against complex background textures, compounded by non-uniform illumination, frequently results in high false-positive rates, misdetections, and severe vessel fragmentation. To address these critical limitations and advance the objective quantification of TCM diagnostics, this paper proposes a novel, highly robust sclera vessel segmentation framework that innovatively integrates Frangi-Sato dual-filter adaptive enhancement with pixel-level reflection detection. MethodsThe proposed methodology systematically addresses the segmentation pipeline through three synergistic stages. First, to overcome the structural limitations of single-filter approaches, a multi-scale weighted fusion strategy is meticulously designed to harness the complementary extraction capabilities of both Frangi and Sato filters. This adaptive enhancement optimally balances the preservation of main vessel trunk continuity with the heightened sensitivity required for delineating delicate, low-contrast peripheral capillaries. Second, to tackle the persistent issue of reflective highlights, a sophisticated multi-feature synergistic reflection detection module is introduced. By jointly analyzing local information entropy, gradient field variations, and intensity statistical distributions, this module achieves precise, pixel-level identification and elimination of reflective artifacts without compromising the underlying vascular structures. Finally, a dual-level adaptive thresholding strategy, featuring an innovative “core protection” mechanism, is implemented. This critical step effectively suppresses complex background noise while rigorously preserving the structural and topological integrity of the intricate vessel network, preventing the structural breaks often seen in conventional binarization methods. ResultsThe efficacy of the proposed framework was rigorously evaluated using both self-constructed clinical datasets specifically acquired for TCM research and standardized public datasets. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method consistently outperforms state-of-the-art traditional approaches and contemporary deep learning models. Specifically, the proposed method achieves a Dice similarity coefficient of approximately 0.71 on the private clinical dataset, and secures the best performance across the majority of quantitative metrics on both datasets. Notably, the framework exhibits exceptional robustness and generalization capabilities in highly challenging scenarios characterized by intense reflective interference, low signal-to-noise ratios, and cross-domain image variations. ConclusionThis study successfully realizes the high-integrity, automated segmentation of scleral vessel networks under complex clinical imaging conditions. By overcoming the fundamental algorithmic challenges of reflection interference and micro-vessel loss, the proposed methodology provides potential support for the digitization, objective standardization, and intelligent advancement of modern TCM eye diagnosis systems.

ObjectiveIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the foundational doctrine that the eyes reflect the essence of the internal viscera establishes ocular observation as a cornerstone of diagnostic practice. Specifically, the morphological characteristics and coloration variations of the scleral microvasculature serve as critical clinical indicators for assessing the dynamic balance of Qi and Blood, as well as the pathological status of internal organs. Historically, however, TCM eye diagnosis has relied predominantly on the subjective clinical experience and visual acuity of individual practitioners, leading to inherent challenges in standardization and reproducibility. While automated computer-aided diagnostic systems offer a promising solution, existing vessel segmentation algorithms encounter significant domain-specific bottlenecks when applied to scleral imagery. These challenges primarily stem from the highly reflective and moist nature of the ocular surface, which generates severe reflective interference. Furthermore, the inherent low contrast of fine capillary networks against complex background textures, compounded by non-uniform illumination, frequently results in high false-positive rates, misdetections, and severe vessel fragmentation. To address these critical limitations and advance the objective quantification of TCM diagnostics, this paper proposes a novel, highly robust sclera vessel segmentation framework that innovatively integrates Frangi-Sato dual-filter adaptive enhancement with pixel-level reflection detection. MethodsThe proposed methodology systematically addresses the segmentation pipeline through three synergistic stages. First, to overcome the structural limitations of single-filter approaches, a multi-scale weighted fusion strategy is meticulously designed to harness the complementary extraction capabilities of both Frangi and Sato filters. This adaptive enhancement optimally balances the preservation of main vessel trunk continuity with the heightened sensitivity required for delineating delicate, low-contrast peripheral capillaries. Second, to tackle the persistent issue of reflective highlights, a sophisticated multi-feature synergistic reflection detection module is introduced. By jointly analyzing local information entropy, gradient field variations, and intensity statistical distributions, this module achieves precise, pixel-level identification and elimination of reflective artifacts without compromising the underlying vascular structures. Finally, a dual-level adaptive thresholding strategy, featuring an innovative “core protection” mechanism, is implemented. This critical step effectively suppresses complex background noise while rigorously preserving the structural and topological integrity of the intricate vessel network, preventing the structural breaks often seen in conventional binarization methods. ResultsThe efficacy of the proposed framework was rigorously evaluated using both self-constructed clinical datasets specifically acquired for TCM research and standardized public datasets. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method consistently outperforms state-of-the-art traditional approaches and contemporary deep learning models. Specifically, the proposed method achieves a Dice similarity coefficient of approximately 0.71 on the private clinical dataset, and secures the best performance across the majority of quantitative metrics on both datasets. Notably, the framework exhibits exceptional robustness and generalization capabilities in highly challenging scenarios characterized by intense reflective interference, low signal-to-noise ratios, and cross-domain image variations. ConclusionThis study successfully realizes the high-integrity, automated segmentation of scleral vessel networks under complex clinical imaging conditions. By overcoming the fundamental algorithmic challenges of reflection interference and micro-vessel loss, the proposed methodology provides potential support for the digitization, objective standardization, and intelligent advancement of modern TCM eye diagnosis systems.

Experimental teaching is an important component of the course Medical Immunology,which requires the use of experimental animals and the execution of experimental animals by medical students.By applying the carbon dioxide euthanasia system,it can effectively reduce the pain of experimental animals,ensure their welfare,and meet ethical requirements.It can also improve the efficiency of experimental teaching in Medical Immunology,reduce environmental pollution,and promote medical students to estab-lish scientific values and worldviews that pay attention to experimental animals and respect life,which is conducive to becoming future medical service talents.In the experimental teaching of Medical Immunology,the appropriate application of carbon dioxide euthanasia system combined with effective ideological and political construction of the curriculum can further implement the Party's educational policy of cultivating morality and talents,and lay a good foundation for cultivating medical talents with comprehensive knowledge,high skills and excellent quality.

AIM To prepare the sustained-release microspheres of ginsenosides.METHODS The sustained-release microspheres were prepared by SPG membrane emulsification technology with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)as a shell carrier.With PLGA concentration,feed rate and Span 60 concentration as influencing factors,comprehensive score for appearance,drug loading and encapsulation efficiency as an evaluation indice,the preparation process was optimized by response surface method.The morphology of sustained-release microspheres was observed,after which the particle size,drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were determined,and the in vitro drug release was investigated.RESULTS The optimal conditons were determined to be 45 s for agitation time of primary emulsion,74.68 mg/mL for PLGA concentration,11％for feed rate,and 4.18 mg/mL for Span 60 concentration,the comprehensive score was 74.98.The round sustained-release microspheres demonstrated the average particle size of 4.33 μm,drug loading of(8.24±0.13)％,and encapsulation efficiency of(74.94±1.17)％,respectively.At 336 h,ginsenosides Rg1,Rb1,Rb2 displayed the accumulative release rates of 84.12％,78.04％,65.88％,respectively.CONCLUSION This reasonable and feasible method can be used for the preparation of sustained-release microspheres of ginsenosides with good appearance and high drug loading,which can provide references for the preparation of other water-soluble drug microspheres and solution of microsphere collapse problem.

Objective:To compare the efficacy of the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach and curved vertebroplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF).Methods:A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 66 patients with OVCF admitted to the Second People′s Hospital of Hefei from December 2021 to June 2023, including 9 males and 57 females aged 60-89 years [(75.6±7.5)years]. The injured segments included T 11 in 17 patients, T 12 in 17, L 1 in 17, and L 2 in 15. Among them, 33 patients underwent vertebroplasty via the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach (lateral approach group), while other 33 patients underwent curved vertebroplasty (curved group). The surgical duration, number of X-ray fluoroscopy, bone cement injection volume, and length of hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the restoration efficiency of vertebral height and the correction degree of spinal scoliosis Cobb angle at 2 days postoperatively were compared between the two groups. The changes in serum levels of stress factors including noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol preoperatively and at 2 days postoperatively, the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) preoperatively, at 2 days, 6 months postoperatively, and at the last follow-up were compared between the two groups. The incidence of complications was assessed in the two groups. Results:All the patients were followed up for 12-14 months [(13.2±0.5)months]. The surgical duration and number of X-ray fluoroscopy in the lateral approach group were (30.9±4.1)minutes and (5.9±3.3)times, which were significantly lower than (35.8±3.9)minutes and (9.9±4.4)times in the curved group ( P<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of bone cement injection volume, length of hospital stay, restoration efficiency of vertebral height at 2 days postoperatively, or the correction degree of spinal scoliosis Cobb angle ( P>0.05). The levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol at 2 days postoperatively were (57.3±4.8)ng/ml, (49.9±4.2)ng/ml, (159.3±20.5)nmol/L in the lateral approach group, and (64.3±4.5)ng/ml, (58.3±4.4)ng/ml, (183.5±21.2)nmol/L in the curved group, which were all significantly increased compared with those preoperatively [(42.3±3.5)ng/ml, (38.5±2.8)ng/ml, (128.4±12.3)nmol/L in the lateral approach group and (42.0±3.5)ng/ml, (39.0±3.0)ng/ml, (128.5±12.3)nmol/L in the curved group] ( P<0.01). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol preoperatively ( P>0.05). The levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol at 2 days postoperatively in the lateral approach group were significantly lower than those in the curved group ( P<0.01). The VAS scores for low back pain in the lateral approach group and the curved group were 3(2, 5)points and 5(3, 6)points at 2 days postoperatively, 3(2, 4)points and 3(2, 4)points at 6 months postoperatively, and 2(2, 3)points and 2(2, 4)points at the last follow-up, which were all significantly lower than those preoperatively [7(7, 9)points and 8(6, 9)points] ( P<0.05). Moreover, the VAS scores for low back pain were further decreased over time postoperatively ( P<0.05). The ODI values in the lateral approach group and curved group were (33.4±4.4)% and (33.7±4.3)% at 2 days postoperatively, (23.8±1.6)% and (23.8±1.7)% at 6 months postoperatively, and (15.6±0.9)% and (15.6±0.9)% at the last follow-up, which were all significantly lower than (67.4±4.3)% and (67.5±4.3)% preoperatively ( P<0.05). Moreover, the ODI values were further decreased over time postoperatively ( P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the VAS scores for low back pain or ODI values preoperatively, at 2 days, 6 months postoperatively or at the last follow-up ( P>0.05). The complication rate was 12.1% (4/33) in the lateral approach group, which was significantly lower than 51.5% (17/33) in the curved group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Although both the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach vertebroplasty and the curved vertebroplasty can achieve good therapeutic effects in the treatment of OVCF, the former has shorter surgical duration, fewer times of X-ray fluoroscopy, lower trauma stress levels at 2 days postoperatively, and fewer complications.

Under the background of rapid development of artificial intelligence(AI),this paper systematically proposes AI-based education(AIBE).It empowers the teaching process,learning process,research process,and teaching management with AI,and constructs an AI-based educational paradigm,including AI-based teaching(AIBT),AI-based learning(AIBL),AI-based re-search(AIBR),and AI-based management(AIBM).Taking the AI course of immunology teaching as an example,this paper deeply analyzes the practices and explorations of implementing AIBT,AIBL,AIBR and AIBM based on the AI course,so as to accelerate the promotion of the transformation of the fourth generation of medical education.

AIM To prepare the sustained-release microspheres of ginsenosides.METHODS The sustained-release microspheres were prepared by SPG membrane emulsification technology with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA)as a shell carrier.With PLGA concentration,feed rate and Span 60 concentration as influencing factors,comprehensive score for appearance,drug loading and encapsulation efficiency as an evaluation indice,the preparation process was optimized by response surface method.The morphology of sustained-release microspheres was observed,after which the particle size,drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were determined,and the in vitro drug release was investigated.RESULTS The optimal conditons were determined to be 45 s for agitation time of primary emulsion,74.68 mg/mL for PLGA concentration,11％for feed rate,and 4.18 mg/mL for Span 60 concentration,the comprehensive score was 74.98.The round sustained-release microspheres demonstrated the average particle size of 4.33 μm,drug loading of(8.24±0.13)％,and encapsulation efficiency of(74.94±1.17)％,respectively.At 336 h,ginsenosides Rg1,Rb1,Rb2 displayed the accumulative release rates of 84.12％,78.04％,65.88％,respectively.CONCLUSION This reasonable and feasible method can be used for the preparation of sustained-release microspheres of ginsenosides with good appearance and high drug loading,which can provide references for the preparation of other water-soluble drug microspheres and solution of microsphere collapse problem.

Experimental teaching is an important component of the course Medical Immunology,which requires the use of experimental animals and the execution of experimental animals by medical students.By applying the carbon dioxide euthanasia system,it can effectively reduce the pain of experimental animals,ensure their welfare,and meet ethical requirements.It can also improve the efficiency of experimental teaching in Medical Immunology,reduce environmental pollution,and promote medical students to estab-lish scientific values and worldviews that pay attention to experimental animals and respect life,which is conducive to becoming future medical service talents.In the experimental teaching of Medical Immunology,the appropriate application of carbon dioxide euthanasia system combined with effective ideological and political construction of the curriculum can further implement the Party's educational policy of cultivating morality and talents,and lay a good foundation for cultivating medical talents with comprehensive knowledge,high skills and excellent quality.

Under the background of rapid development of artificial intelligence(AI),this paper systematically proposes AI-based education(AIBE).It empowers the teaching process,learning process,research process,and teaching management with AI,and constructs an AI-based educational paradigm,including AI-based teaching(AIBT),AI-based learning(AIBL),AI-based re-search(AIBR),and AI-based management(AIBM).Taking the AI course of immunology teaching as an example,this paper deeply analyzes the practices and explorations of implementing AIBT,AIBL,AIBR and AIBM based on the AI course,so as to accelerate the promotion of the transformation of the fourth generation of medical education.

Objective:To compare the efficacy of the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach and curved vertebroplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF).Methods:A retrospective cohort study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 66 patients with OVCF admitted to the Second People′s Hospital of Hefei from December 2021 to June 2023, including 9 males and 57 females aged 60-89 years [(75.6±7.5)years]. The injured segments included T 11 in 17 patients, T 12 in 17, L 1 in 17, and L 2 in 15. Among them, 33 patients underwent vertebroplasty via the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach (lateral approach group), while other 33 patients underwent curved vertebroplasty (curved group). The surgical duration, number of X-ray fluoroscopy, bone cement injection volume, and length of hospital stay were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the restoration efficiency of vertebral height and the correction degree of spinal scoliosis Cobb angle at 2 days postoperatively were compared between the two groups. The changes in serum levels of stress factors including noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol preoperatively and at 2 days postoperatively, the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) preoperatively, at 2 days, 6 months postoperatively, and at the last follow-up were compared between the two groups. The incidence of complications was assessed in the two groups. Results:All the patients were followed up for 12-14 months [(13.2±0.5)months]. The surgical duration and number of X-ray fluoroscopy in the lateral approach group were (30.9±4.1)minutes and (5.9±3.3)times, which were significantly lower than (35.8±3.9)minutes and (9.9±4.4)times in the curved group ( P<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of bone cement injection volume, length of hospital stay, restoration efficiency of vertebral height at 2 days postoperatively, or the correction degree of spinal scoliosis Cobb angle ( P>0.05). The levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol at 2 days postoperatively were (57.3±4.8)ng/ml, (49.9±4.2)ng/ml, (159.3±20.5)nmol/L in the lateral approach group, and (64.3±4.5)ng/ml, (58.3±4.4)ng/ml, (183.5±21.2)nmol/L in the curved group, which were all significantly increased compared with those preoperatively [(42.3±3.5)ng/ml, (38.5±2.8)ng/ml, (128.4±12.3)nmol/L in the lateral approach group and (42.0±3.5)ng/ml, (39.0±3.0)ng/ml, (128.5±12.3)nmol/L in the curved group] ( P<0.01). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol preoperatively ( P>0.05). The levels of noradrenaline, adrenaline, and cortisol at 2 days postoperatively in the lateral approach group were significantly lower than those in the curved group ( P<0.01). The VAS scores for low back pain in the lateral approach group and the curved group were 3(2, 5)points and 5(3, 6)points at 2 days postoperatively, 3(2, 4)points and 3(2, 4)points at 6 months postoperatively, and 2(2, 3)points and 2(2, 4)points at the last follow-up, which were all significantly lower than those preoperatively [7(7, 9)points and 8(6, 9)points] ( P<0.05). Moreover, the VAS scores for low back pain were further decreased over time postoperatively ( P<0.05). The ODI values in the lateral approach group and curved group were (33.4±4.4)% and (33.7±4.3)% at 2 days postoperatively, (23.8±1.6)% and (23.8±1.7)% at 6 months postoperatively, and (15.6±0.9)% and (15.6±0.9)% at the last follow-up, which were all significantly lower than (67.4±4.3)% and (67.5±4.3)% preoperatively ( P<0.05). Moreover, the ODI values were further decreased over time postoperatively ( P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the VAS scores for low back pain or ODI values preoperatively, at 2 days, 6 months postoperatively or at the last follow-up ( P>0.05). The complication rate was 12.1% (4/33) in the lateral approach group, which was significantly lower than 51.5% (17/33) in the curved group ( P<0.05). Conclusion:Although both the transverse process-lateral pedicle approach vertebroplasty and the curved vertebroplasty can achieve good therapeutic effects in the treatment of OVCF, the former has shorter surgical duration, fewer times of X-ray fluoroscopy, lower trauma stress levels at 2 days postoperatively, and fewer complications.