ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effect of Astragali Radix-mediated changes in gut microbiota on treating type 2 diabetes （T2DM）. MethodsA 12-week randomized， placebo-controlled clinical trial enrolled eighty patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and poor glycemic control in the Qi deficiency type. All patients received insulin therapy. The observation group （40 cases） was administered with Astragali Radix Granules， while the control group （40 cases） received a placebo. Both treamtents were taken orally twice daily. Changes in gut microbiota were assessed by 16s rDNA sequencing. Serum glucagon-like peptide-1 （GLP-1） levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Glucose metabolism indicators including fasting blood glucose （FPG）， 2-hour postprandial blood glucose （2 h PG），glycated albumin（GA）， and glycated hemoglobin （HbA1c） were evaluated. Pancreatic function was evaluated using fasting C-peptide （FCP）， 2-hour postprandial C-peptide （2 h CP）， and C-peptide area under the curve （AUC_cp）. Traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） syndrome scores， clinical efficacy， and safety indicators were also observed. ResultsIn terms of glucose metabolism indicators， compared with the baseline， both groups exhibited significantly lower FPG， 2 h PG， GA and HbA1C （P<0.01），while FCP， 2 h CP and AUC_cp were significantly higher （P<0.01）. Compared with the control group after the treatment， the observation group showed significantly lower FPG， 2 h PG， GA and HbA1C（P<0.05， P<0.01），and significantly higher FCP， 2 h CP and AUC_cp （P<0.05， P<0.01）， indicating that Astragali Radix can improve glucose metabolism. In terms of the diversity of gut microbiota， no significant differences were detected in the Chao1， Shannon and Simpson indexes of the two groups compared with their respective baselines. However， compared with the post-treatment control group， the observation group demonstrated significant increases in the Chao1， Shannon and Simpson indexes （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The β-diversity analysis showed significant separation in gut microbiota composition before and after treatment in both groups， indicating that Astragali Radix can significantly alter the structure and improve the diversity of gut microbiota. At the phylum level， compared with the baseline， both groups showed a significant increase in the relative abundance of Bacteroidota（P<0.01）. The relative abundance of the potentially harmful phylum Proteobacteria was significantly lower in the observation Group after treatment （P<0.01）. Compared with the post-treatment control group， the observation group had a significantly higher relative abundance of Bacteroidota（P<0.01）. No significant difference was found in Firmicutes/Bacteroidota （F/B） ratio between the two groups after treatment， and other phyla showed no significant differences. At the genus level， compared with the baseline， the observation group exhibited a significant increase in Bacteroides （P<0.01） and a significant decrease in Escherichia-Shigella （P<0.01）， whereas no significant difference was seen in the control group . Compared with the control group after treatment， the observation group after treatment had a significantly higher relative abundance of Bacteroides （P<0.01）. No significant differences were seen in other genera. Linear discriminant analysis （LDA） identified potential characteristics taxa： in the observation group， Bacteroidota at the phylum level and Bacteroides and Dubosiella at the genus level， in the control group， Proteobacteria at the phylum level as well as Barnesiella and Staphylococcus at the genus level. Correlation analysis based on a heatmap revealed that GLP-1 levels were positively correlated with Firmicutes， F/B ratio and Fusobacterium， and negatively correlated with Bacteroidota， Proteobacteria， Bacteroides and Escherichia-Shigella. In terms of clinical efficacy， compared with the control group， the total effective rate of the observation group was significantly higher （P<0.05）. Compared with the baseline， the scores for shortness of breath， fatigue， weakness， spontaneous sweating and reluctance to speak significantly decreased in both groups （P<0.01）. Compared with the control group after treatment， the score for weakness was significantly lower in the observation group （P<0.01），indicating that Astragali Radix could improve clinical symptoms and alleviate weakness symptoms. In terms of safety， compared with the baseline， alanine aminotransferase （ALT） levels significantly decreased in both groups （P<0.05，P<0.01），indicating that Astragali Radix did not induce any significant abnormalities in liver and kidney functions. ConclusionAstragali Radix demonstrates the potential to significantly improve the gut microbiota environment in patients of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes with Qi deficiency. The therapeutic effect may contribute to glycemic control， possibly mediated by an elevation in GLP-1 level. These findings may support its further clinical investigations and potential applications.

AIM:This study aims to investigate the expression and prognostic value of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2C(UBE2C)in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),and to explore its impact on cancer stemness and the regulato-ry mechanisms.METHODS:(1)The TCGA and GEO databases were used to analyze UBE2C mRNA expression levels in HCC tissues and their correlation with prognosis using bioinformatics techniques,and these findings were further vali-dated in postoperative specimens from 107 HCC patients.The GEPIA database was used to analyze the correlation be-tween UBE2C and steroid receptor coactivator(SRC).(2)The CCK8,colony formation,wound healing,and spheroid formation assays were used to assess the effects of UBE2C on HCC cell proliferation,migration,and stemness.The inter-action between UBE2C and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),as well as its regulatory mecha-nism,was examined by Western blot and co-immunoprecipitation assays.(3)The subcutaneous xenograft model in nude mice was employed to validate the role of UBE2C in tumor growth in vivo.RESULTS:(1)Bioinformatics analysis re-vealed that UBE2C expression was significantly up-regulated in HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues(P<0.05 in TCGA,and P<0.01 in GEO).Consistently,analysis of HCC specimens confirmed that high UBE2C expression was associated with shortened overall survival and disease-free survival of HCC patients(P<0.05).Furthermore,analysis using the GEPIA database revealed a positive correlation between UBE2C and SRC(P<0.01).(2)In vitro experiments demonstrated that UBE2C significantly promotes the proliferation and migration of HCC cells.Based on these findings,we presumed that UBE2C may regulate the phosphorylation of STAT3 at the Y705 site by modulating SRC activity,thereby in-fluencing the stemness characteristics of tumor cells.(3)In vivo experiments further confirmed that UBE2C inhibition sig-nificantly suppressed tumor growth.CONCLUSION:The UBE2C promoted proliferation and migration of HCC cells and regulated the stemness of HCC cells by interacting with STAT3.

BACKGROUND:Shaker exercise can enhance the contraction force of the hyoid muscles,which is effective in the treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia.Shaker exercise should be performed through the main force of the anterior cervical region to train the hyoid muscles.However,patients often experience physical fatigue,leading to compensatory abdominal force exertion.Moreover,the effect of different forms of shaker exercises on the activation of the hyoid muscles in healthy adults is currently unknown.OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effects of shaker exercises with varying force on the activation of the hyoid muscles in healthy adults.METHODS:Twenty healthy adults,including 10 males and 10 females with a mean age of(26.8±3.4)years were recruited as participants for the study.They performed isometric movements of the shaker exercise in the anterior neck and abdominal force modes in sequence.Simultaneously,real-time surface electromyography data were collected from the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles and rectus abdominis muscle.At the end of the experiment,participants were asked to rate the physical exertion levels for each type of force using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale at the end of the training.Following a series of processing of the original electromyography signals,the peak amplitude and/or average amplitude values of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles and rectus abdominis in the 60-second movement window were calculated and compared,and the differences in the subjective fatigue scores corresponding to the two force modes were compared.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:The average amplitude of the rectus abdominis muscle in the abdominal force mode was found to be higher than that in the neck force mode(P<0.05).However,there were no significant differences in the mean and peak amplitudes between the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles in the two force modes(P>0.05).There was also no significant difference in the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale scores in the two force modes(P>0.05).These findings suggest that shaker exercises with different force modes(anterior neck and abdomen)have minimal impact on the hyoid muscles and similar feeling of fatigue in healthy adults.

Obesity, as a chronic recurrent disease, has become a major public health challenge in China. To implement the requirements of the Healthy China Initiative (2019—2030), under domestic guidelines or consensus statements on overweight and obesity, and in alignment with the latest scientific advances globally, the Quality control protocol for adult overweight and obesity screening in health management (examination) institutions (2025 edition) was developed. This protocol was drafted by the Health Management Center of Shanghai Changzheng Hospital and formulated through multiple rounds of deliberation by experts in China’s health examination quality control field. The protocol establishes unified standards for screening facilities, personnel qualifications, and measurement or testing procedures. It defines specific screening items, outlines a standardized screening pathway, and sets requirements for the final medical review, ensuring the scientific validity, effectiveness, and safety of the screening process. The implementation of this protocol will enhance the consistency of weight management practices for adults across health examination institutions and strengthen the quality control of overweight and obesity screening programs.

In order to effectively prevent and control the occurrence of catheter-associated urinary tract infection and ensure the safety of both patients and medical personnel,the National Health Commission of the People's Re-public of China officially released the recommended health industry standard"Standard for prevention and control of catheter-associated urinary tract infection"(WS/T862-2025)in Aug.2025.This paper provides an interpreta-tion of the standard,covering its drafting background,basis and content,to assist relevant medical personnel in healthcare institutions in enhancing their understanding and recognition of the standard,and to further promote its implementation and enforcement.

Houpo Sanwutang， included in the Catalogue of Ancient Classical Prescriptions （Second Batch）， was first recorded in the Synopsis of Golden Chamber written by ZHANG Zhongjing from the Eastern Han dynasty and was modified by successive generations of medical experts. A total of 37 pieces of effective data involving 37 ancient Chinese medical books were retrieved from different databases. Through literature mining， statistical analysis， and data processing， combined with modern articles， this study employed bibliometrics to investigate the historical origin， composition， decoction methods， clinical application， and other key information. The results showed that the medicinal origin of Houpo Sanwutang was clearly documented in classic books. Based on the conversion of the measurements from the Han Dynasty， it is recommended that 110.4 g Magnolia Officinalis Cortex， 55.2 g Rhei Radix et Rhizoma， and 72 g Aurantii Fructus Immaturus should be taken. Magnolia Officinalis Cortex and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus should be decocted with 2 400 mL water first， and 1 000 mL should be taken from the decocted liquid. Following this， Rhei Radix et Rhizoma should be added for further decoction， and then 600 mL should be taken from the decocted liquid. A single dose of administration is 200 mL， and the medication can be stopped when patients restore smooth bowel movement. Houpo Sanwutang has the effect of moving Qi， relieving stuffiness and fullness， removing food stagnation， and regulating bowels. It can be used in treating abdominal distending pain， guarding， constipation， and other diseases with the pathogenesis of stagnated heat and stagnated Qi in the stomach. The above results provide reference for the future development and research of Houpo Sanwutang.

The liver performs multiple life-sustaining functions. Hepatic diseases, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatoma, pose significant health and economic burdens globally. Along with the advances in nanotechnology, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) exhibiting diversiform size and shape, distinct morphological properties, and favorable physico-chemical features have become an ideal choice for drug delivery systems and inspire alternative thinking for the management of hepatic diseases. Initially, we introduce the physiological structure of the liver and highlight its intrinsic cell types and correlative functions. Next, we detail the synthesis methods and physicochemical properties of MSNs and their capacity for controlled drug loading and release. Particularly, we discuss the interactions between liver and MSNs with respect to the passive targeting mechanisms of MSNs within the liver by adjusting their particle size, pore diameter, surface charge, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, and surface functionalization. Subsequently, we emphasize the role of MSNs in regulating liver pathophysiology, exploring their value in addressing liver pathological states, such as tumors and inflammation, combined with multi-functional designs and intelligent modes to enhance drug targeting and minimize side effects. Lastly, we put forward the problems, challenges, opportunities, as well as clinical translational issues faced by MSNs in the management of liver diseases.

In order to effectively prevent and control the occurrence of catheter-associated urinary tract infection and ensure the safety of both patients and medical personnel,the National Health Commission of the People's Re-public of China officially released the recommended health industry standard"Standard for prevention and control of catheter-associated urinary tract infection"(WS/T862-2025)in Aug.2025.This paper provides an interpreta-tion of the standard,covering its drafting background,basis and content,to assist relevant medical personnel in healthcare institutions in enhancing their understanding and recognition of the standard,and to further promote its implementation and enforcement.

AIM:This study aims to investigate the expression and prognostic value of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2C(UBE2C)in hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),and to explore its impact on cancer stemness and the regulato-ry mechanisms.METHODS:(1)The TCGA and GEO databases were used to analyze UBE2C mRNA expression levels in HCC tissues and their correlation with prognosis using bioinformatics techniques,and these findings were further vali-dated in postoperative specimens from 107 HCC patients.The GEPIA database was used to analyze the correlation be-tween UBE2C and steroid receptor coactivator(SRC).(2)The CCK8,colony formation,wound healing,and spheroid formation assays were used to assess the effects of UBE2C on HCC cell proliferation,migration,and stemness.The inter-action between UBE2C and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3(STAT3),as well as its regulatory mecha-nism,was examined by Western blot and co-immunoprecipitation assays.(3)The subcutaneous xenograft model in nude mice was employed to validate the role of UBE2C in tumor growth in vivo.RESULTS:(1)Bioinformatics analysis re-vealed that UBE2C expression was significantly up-regulated in HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues(P<0.05 in TCGA,and P<0.01 in GEO).Consistently,analysis of HCC specimens confirmed that high UBE2C expression was associated with shortened overall survival and disease-free survival of HCC patients(P<0.05).Furthermore,analysis using the GEPIA database revealed a positive correlation between UBE2C and SRC(P<0.01).(2)In vitro experiments demonstrated that UBE2C significantly promotes the proliferation and migration of HCC cells.Based on these findings,we presumed that UBE2C may regulate the phosphorylation of STAT3 at the Y705 site by modulating SRC activity,thereby in-fluencing the stemness characteristics of tumor cells.(3)In vivo experiments further confirmed that UBE2C inhibition sig-nificantly suppressed tumor growth.CONCLUSION:The UBE2C promoted proliferation and migration of HCC cells and regulated the stemness of HCC cells by interacting with STAT3.

BACKGROUND:Shaker exercise can enhance the contraction force of the hyoid muscles,which is effective in the treatment of oropharyngeal dysphagia.Shaker exercise should be performed through the main force of the anterior cervical region to train the hyoid muscles.However,patients often experience physical fatigue,leading to compensatory abdominal force exertion.Moreover,the effect of different forms of shaker exercises on the activation of the hyoid muscles in healthy adults is currently unknown.OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effects of shaker exercises with varying force on the activation of the hyoid muscles in healthy adults.METHODS:Twenty healthy adults,including 10 males and 10 females with a mean age of(26.8±3.4)years were recruited as participants for the study.They performed isometric movements of the shaker exercise in the anterior neck and abdominal force modes in sequence.Simultaneously,real-time surface electromyography data were collected from the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles and rectus abdominis muscle.At the end of the experiment,participants were asked to rate the physical exertion levels for each type of force using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale at the end of the training.Following a series of processing of the original electromyography signals,the peak amplitude and/or average amplitude values of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles and rectus abdominis in the 60-second movement window were calculated and compared,and the differences in the subjective fatigue scores corresponding to the two force modes were compared.RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:The average amplitude of the rectus abdominis muscle in the abdominal force mode was found to be higher than that in the neck force mode(P<0.05).However,there were no significant differences in the mean and peak amplitudes between the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles in the two force modes(P>0.05).There was also no significant difference in the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale scores in the two force modes(P>0.05).These findings suggest that shaker exercises with different force modes(anterior neck and abdomen)have minimal impact on the hyoid muscles and similar feeling of fatigue in healthy adults.