Objective: To investigate the distribution frequency and molecular mechanism of the rare blood type Lu(a-b-) in Shenzhen, and to compare the polymorphisms of the Lutheran blood group system encoding gene LU and the In (Lu) phenotype-related gene KLF1 among Han Chinese, Indian, and Uyghur populations in Xinjiang. Methods: Serological methods were used to screen the Lu(a-b-) phenotype of blood donors in Shenzhen. Third-generation sequencing was employed to sequence the full-length of the LU and KLF1 genes in Lu (a-b-) phenotype samples as well as the samples from the Han Chinese, Indians, and Uyghur population, followed by analysis of gene haplotypes frequencies. Results: Ten individuals with the Lu(a-b-) phenotype were screened out of 14 367 blood donors in Shenzhen, yielding a frequency of approximately 0.07%. Only 2 cases showed mutations in the coding region of the LU gene, while all individuals showed heterozygous mutations in the coding region of the KLF1 gene. The highest mutation frequencies of the LU and KLF1 genes were observed in the Uyghur population in Xinjiang and the Han Chinese in Shenzhen, respectively. Conclusion: All Lu(a-b-) phenotypes are of the In (Lu) type, and their formation mechanism is mainly related to KLF1 gene mutations. Both the LU and KLF1 genes exhibit significant polymorphism in the Han Chinese, Indians, and Uyghur populations.

Objective To investigate the association between physical activity levels and blood lipids among college freshmen, and to provide scientific evidence for the health management of college freshmen. Methods An electronic questionnaire survey on physical activity was conducted on freshmen of a university, and fasting blood biochemical indicators were detected. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to evaluate the physical activity levels of the participants. Dyslipidemia was defined as an abnormality in any one of the following serum lipid parameters: total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), or non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Binary logistic regression and stratified analyses were employed to explore the relationship between physical activity and blood lipids. Results A total of 3 401 participants were included, with an average age of 18.45 ± 0.92 years, and 60.5% were female. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 17.7%, with a higher rate among males (22.1%) than females (14.8%). After adjusting for confounding factors related to blood lipids, high-intensity physical activity was negatively associated with the risk of elevated LDL-C among males (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.13–0.99, P = 0.049). Conclusion Among freshmen at a medical college in Hubei Province, high-intensity physical activity is negatively associated with the risk of elevated LDL-C in males, but this association needs to be further confirmed by larger prospective cohort studies.

Background: Adrenocortical hormones, particularly 11-oxygenated androgens, are pivotal in female reproductive health and fertility. Standardized detection kits and population-specific reference intervals are lacking in China, hindering related clinical applications. Methods: A HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) pipeline was developed, rigorously validated, and applied to simultaneously quantify corticosterone, cortisone, cortisol, 18-OH cortisol, androstenedione (A4), 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11-OH A4), dehydroepiandrosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in serum samples from 455 reproductive-aged women (18–45 yrs) in Guangxi, China. Age-dependent concentration trends were analyzed, and reference intervals stratified by age (2.5th to 97.5th percentiles) were established. Correlations with body-composition metrics, ethnicity, and the menstrual cycle were investigated. Results: The HPLC-MS/MS method demonstrated high precision (intra- and inter-assay CVs < 15%), accuracy, and sensitivity. All eight hormones exhibited significant age-related declines (P < 0.001 for seven hormones; P = 0.001 for 11-OH A4). Notably, 11-OH A4 levels were significantly lower in the 35–45-yr (3.05 nmol/L) and 25–34-yr (3.09 nmol/L) age groups than in the 18–24-yr (3.57 nmol/L) age group, whereas no significant difference was observed between the 35–45-yr and 25–34-yr age groups. Weak negative correlations were observed between the body mass index and corticosterone and cortisone levels, whereas ethnicity and the menstrual cycle showed no significant associations with hormone levels. Conclusions We developed an HPLC-MS/MS-based method for simultaneously quantifying eight adrenocortical hormones, including 11-OH A4, and defined age-specific reference intervals for reproductive-aged Chinese women. These findings advance the clinical utility of adrenocortical hormones in diagnosing and managing reproductive disorders.

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in discriminating fumarate hydratase-deficient (FH-d) uterine leiomyomas (ULs) from FH-preserved ULs. Materials and Methods: This study consisted of three stages, with independent cohorts recruited for each stage: 1) sample-size estimation was retrospectively performed on UL specimens (diameter ≥3 cm; age, 20–40 years) from our database with immunohistochemistry (IHC) for 2-succinocysteine (2-SC) as the reference, without genetic testing, 2) MRS sequence optimization in confirmed FH germline mutation participants with ultrasound-detected ULs (diameter ≥3 cm), without IHC analysis, and 3) prospective diagnostic test accuracy was evaluated in consecutive participants with ultrasound-detected ULs (diameter ≥3 cm;age, 20–40 years), using IHC for 2-SC for determining the FH status and subsequent genetic testing in those with positive 2-SC results to identify whether FH mutations were germline or somatic in origin. The choline and fumarate peaks in MRS were classified as positive, negative, or technical failure (TF). TFs were analyzed separately and excluded from the primary diagnostic accuracy calculations. T1-, T2-, and diffusion-weighted images were interpreted as hyperintense or hypointense. The enhancement rate and apparent diffusion coefficient were also acquired. Diagnostic performance was compared between MRS and various magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. Results: The optimal MRS parameters for the fumarate peak were echo time (TE) = 140 ms and an average of 256. Among the 360 prospective participants, 37 were confirmed to have FH-dULs. MRS showed positive fumarate peaks in 35 of 37 FH-dULs.After excluding six TFs, the positive fumarate peak on MRS showed 94.6% (35/37) sensitivity, 99.7% (316/317) specificity, and 99.2% (351/354) accuracy, all of which were significantly superior to those of other MRI features (P ≤ 0.002). Conclusion A positive fumarate peak on MRS may be a useful imaging biomarker for diagnosing FH-dULs.

Objective To gain insights into the biological characteristics of different populations of Culex tritaeniorhynchus within and around the Yellow Sea wetland from the perspective of the occurrence of resistance, we investigated the levels of resistance to deltamethrin and kdr gene mutation in the wetland and its peripheral areas. Methods Specimens were collected from Cx. tritaeniorhynchus populations at two monitoring sites in the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area, and also from two populations in Yancheng City and the Liuhe District of Nanjing, and the resistance of these mosquitoes to deltamethrin was determined using the CDC biotest bottle method. For each concentration of deltamethrin assessed, a random subset of exposed specimens was selected for amplification of the kdr gene fragment, followed by Sanger sequencing to identify and analyze resistance-associated mutations. Results The LC50 levels of deltamethrin among mosquitoes from the four populations in Luhe, Yancheng, the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and the Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area were 2.048 5, 7.798 2, 3.473 3, and 17.695 5 mg/mL, respectively, with corresponding concentrations of deltamethrin ranging from 0.005 to 5.000,0.050 to 50.000,0.050 to 25.000 and 0.050 to 50.000 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the ranges of the KT50 values were 11.76-107.43, 67.05-216.30,29.77-107.43 and 28.40-329.51 min; the 1-h knockdown rates were 34.58%-99.15%, 9.52%-43.80%, 55.09%-73.01%, and 10.09%-68.07%; and the 24-h mortality rates were 12.15%-67.52%,9.52%-79.56%,13.17%-82.21%, and 11.01%-78.99%, respectively. With respect to kdr gene mutation, we assayed a total of 63,70,59, and 57 mosquitoes for the four populations, for which we detected L1014F mutation frequencies of 14.29%, 35.00%, 20.34%, and 31.58%, respectively, with a majority of these mutations being heterozygous for resistance. In addition, five adult mosquitoes were identified has having synonymous mutations at site 1011[i. e. , AAT(asparagine)mutation to AAC(asparagine)]. Conclusions Our findings revealed the clear resistance of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus to deltamethrin in the Yancheng region of the Yellow Sea wetland, and the resistance phenotype and kdr frequency of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment were comparable to those of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment, thereby indicating that the resistance of different populations of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was homogeneous under the pressure of different insecticide selection within and around the wetland. However, the underlying mechanisms need to be further studied.

Objective This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity, differentiation, and population structure of Aedes albopictus across different geographical regions in Shandong Province, and to explore the relationship between genetic diversity and geographical distribution. Methods Between July and August 2024, ten Ae. albopictus populations were sampled from seven cities in Shandong Province. Genomic DNA was extracted from individual mosquitoes, and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I(COⅠ)gene was amplified using PCR and sequenced. The obtained sequences were verified using BLAST and analyzed with MAFFT, MEGA 11, DnaSP v6.12, Arlequin 3.5, PopART 1.7, STRUCTURE 2.3.4 and the R packages adegenet and vegan to assess genetic diversity and population structure. Results A total of 229 COⅠ sequences(662 bp) was obtained, revealing ten variable sites with no insertions or deletions. The overall base composition showed an AT bias of 67.7%. Haplotype analysis identified 11 haplotypes, with Hap2 being the dominant and most widely distributed haplotype across all populations. Neutrality tests showed significant population expansion only in the Rizhao population. Mantel testing result revealed that geographical distance does not significantly impede gene flow. Overall, genetic differentiation among populations was low, indicating frequent gene flow. When combined with additional samples from Shanghai, Fujian, Guangdong, Yunnan, Hainan and Guangxi, STRUCTURE, UPGMA and DAPC analyses revealed two primary genetic clusters of Ae. albopictus. Conclusions Ae. albopictus populations in Shandong Province exhibit frequent gene flow, low genetic differentiation, and relatively low overall genetic diversity. However, the Rizhao population showed signs of recent expansion, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted control measures in this area.

ObjectiveTo identify and quantify the excellent shape and high quality indicators of Sarcandrae Herba and establish an evaluation method for Sarcandrae Herba based on appearance traits and active components according to the theory of excellent shape， high quality， and superior effect of authentic medicinal materials. MethodsSarcandrae Herba samples from various producing areas were systematically collected. Through classical herbal textual research and modern literature analysis， colorimetric values of leaves and stems were selected as shape indicators. According to compound preparation data and literature reports， total flavonoids， total phenolic acids， and coumarins were selected as component indicators. Cluster analysis and correlation analysis were performed to identify core objective indicators and their threshold ranges for the excellent shape and high quality of Sarcandrae Herba. ResultsGreener Sarcandrae Herba exhibited higher levels of phenolic acids， total flavonoids， and coumarins. Core quantitative indicators characterizing the excellent shape and high quality of Sarcandrae Herba were Leaf a^* value<0.99， stem a^* value<4， phenolic acid content≥2.49%， total flavonoid content≥5.32%， and coumarin content≥1.98%. By calculating the compliance rate of each batch against this indicator system， the quality stability of different batches can be quantitatively evaluated. ConclusionThis study validates the traditional empirical principle that greener stems and leaves indicate high quality. It establishes a quality evaluation method for Sarcandrae Herba based on the correlation between color and bioactive components， providing a scientific basis for the quality control and grading of this herbal medicine.

Objective:To investigate the effects of electroacupuncture stimulation on the expression of Nrf2 and GPX4 proteins in the hippocampal CA1 region of rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO)and its neuroprotective mechanism.Methods:Forty-eight rats were divided into the normal group(Normal),the sham operation control group(Sham),the model group(MCAO)and the electroacupuncture group(EA)according to the random number table method.The right middle cerebral artery occlusion model was established in the MCAO and EA groups by the modified thread embolization method.Starting on day 1 post-modeling,the EA group received electroacupuncture stimulation at the"Baihui"point(GV20)and left"Neiguan"point(PC6)for 30 min daily over 14 d.The Normal group received no treatment,and the Sham group only underwent vascular isolation without inserting the suture.Neurological function of rats in each group were scored before and after modeling and before and after electroacupuncture stimulation using the Zea Longa scoring scale.The structure and arrangement of Nissl-positive cells in the hippocampal CA1 region were observed by Nissl staining.Western blot and immunohistochemical staining were used to determine the expression levels of Nrf2 and GPX4 proteins in the hippocampal CA1 region.Results:Compared with the Normal group,the Sham group showed no neurological deficits,abundant Nissl-positive cells,and no statistically significant differences in Nrf2 and GPX4 protein expression or positive cell counts.Compared with the Sham group,the MCAO group exhibited elevated Zea Longa score,reduced Nissl-positive cell counts,and decreased Nrf2 and GPX4 protein expression and positive cell counts(P＜0.05).In contrast,the EA group demonstrated lower Zea Longa scores,increased Nissl-positive cell counts,and elevated Nrf2 and GPX4 protein expression and positive cell counts compared to the MCAO group(P＜0.05).Conclusion:Electroacupuncture stimulation may protect against neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA1 region of MCAO rats,potentially through up-regulation of Nrf2 and GPX4 expression.

Objective:To analyze the incidence, mortality, survival patterns, and distribution characteristics of modifiable risk factors for colorectal cancer in selected global regions.Methods:Secondary analysis was conducted using data from the GLOBOCAN database and previous literature. We described the number of cases and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incidence and mortality for colorectal cancer in China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and globally in 2022 and 2020, with gender-stratified analysis. ASRs were calculated using Segi's world standard population. Temporal trends in 5-year net survival rates were compared across three periods (2000-2004, 2005-2009, 2010-2014) among countries. Regional distribution differences in colorectal cancer deaths attributable to modifiable risk factors by gender were assessed in China.Results:In 2022, global colorectal cancer incidence and mortality were estimated at 1.926 million new cases and 904 000 deaths. China accounted for 27% of both global incidence (517 000 cases) and mortality (240 000 deaths). China's age-standardized incidence rate (20.1 per 100 000) was lower than those of the United States (27.0 per 100 000) and the UK (30.9 per 100 000). However, China's mortality rate (8.6 per 100 000) exceeded that of the US (7.9 per 100 000) but was lower than the UK (11.8 per 100 000). Compared to 2020, China demonstrated significant mortality reductions in 2022: males declined from 14.8 to 10.9 per 100 000, females from 9.4 to 6.5 per 100 000. Five-year net survival rates in China improved across periods for colon cancer (51.4%, 55.6%, 57.6%) and rectal cancer (49.5%, 52.5%, 56.9%), yet remained consistently lower than US and UK rates. Modifiable risk factors contributed to 45.1% of male and 41.4% of female colorectal cancer deaths in China, with marked regional disparities.Conclusions:China exhibits higher colorectal cancer incidence and mortality than global averages, with survival gaps persisting compared to developed nations. Regionally tailored comprehensive prevention strategies are essential to reduce disease burden through risk factor modification and optimized clinical management.

We collected the positive serum of Echinococcus granulosus infection in sheep,an inter-mediate host with strong immune response,and used healthy serum as negative control,purified the serum and target protein to capture and enrich the corresponding antigen by immunoprecipita-tion,and obtained target protein-antibody-target protein complex.Mass spectrometry strategies were combined to screen and identify specific antigens associated with Echinococcus granulosus,and the proteins with the highest peptide coverage were analyzed bioinformatically using online prediction software.The results showed that 133 Echinococcus granulosus related proteins were i-dentified by IP-MS.Among them,one protein with peptide coverage≥70％was actin Ⅱ,and three proteins with peptide coverage between 30％to 40％were Ton B box domain containing protein,NADH dehydrogenase(ubiquinone)1 α-subcomplex 2(NADH dehydrogenase[ubiquinone])and lactic dehydrogenase.There were six proteins with 20％to 30％peptide coverage,namely,spli-cing factor 3B subunit 5,tumor protein D52,expressed conserved protein,NADH dehydrogenase(ubiquinone)1 alpha subcomplex 7,inosine-5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase,and aldo keto re-ductase family 1 member B4.Bioinformatics analysis revealed that actin protein has no signal pep-tide,it is probably a non-secretory protein and is subcellularly localized to the cytoskeleton,six op-timal potential antigenic epitopes are present,and the secondary and tertiary structures are consist-ently dominated by α-helices and irregular convolutions.The results indicate that immunoprecipita-tion-mass spectrometry is a high-throughput,simple,rapid and effective method for screening and identifying fine-grained Echinococcus granulosus antigens,which can provide a basis for screening specific molecules for serodiagnostic markers in intermediate host sheep and for the development of novel diagnostic techniques for hydatid diseases.