OBJECTIVE: Prunella vulgaris L. has long been used for liver protection according to traditional Chinese medicine theory and has been proven by modern pharmacological research to have multiple potential liver-protective effects. However, its effects on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are currently uncertain. Our study explores the effects of P. vulgaris polysaccharides on NASH and intestinal homeostasis. METHODS: An aqueous extract of the dried fruit spikes of P. vulgaris was precipitated in an 85% ethanol solution (PVE85) to extract crude polysaccharides from the herb. A choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) was administrated to male C57BL/6 mice to establish a NASH animal model. After 4 weeks, the PVE85 group was orally administered PVE85 (200 mg/[kg·d]), while the control group and CDAHFD group were orally administered vehicle for 6 weeks. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and other methods were used to assess the impact of PVE85 on the liver in mice with NASH. 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis was employed to evaluate the gut microbiota abundance and diversity in each group to examine alterations at various taxonomic levels. RESULTS: PVE85 significantly reversed the course of NASH in mice. mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators associated with NASH and protein expression of hepatic nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) were significantly reduced after PVE85 treatment. Moreover, PVE85 attenuated the thickening and cross-linking of collagen fibres and inhibited the expression of fibrosis-related mRNAs in the livers of NASH mice. Intriguingly, PVE85 restored changes in the gut microbiota and improved intestinal barrier dysfunction induced by NASH by increasing the abundance of Actinobacteria and reducing the abundance of Proteobacteria at the phylum level. PVE85 had significant activity in reducing the relative abundance of Clostridiaceae at the family levels. PVE85 markedly enhanced the abundance of some beneficial micro-organisms at various taxonomic levels as well. Additionally, the physicochemical environment of the intestine was effectively improved, involving an increase in the density of intestinal villi, normalization of the intestinal pH, and improvement of intestinal permeability. CONCLUSION PVE85 can reduce hepatic lipid overaccumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis in an animal model of CDAHFD-induced NASH and improve the intestinal microbial composition and intestinal structure. Please cite this article as: Zhu MJ, Song YJ, Rao PL, Gu WY, Xu Y, Xu HX. Therapeutic role of Prunella vulgaris L. polysaccharides in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and gut dysbiosis. J Integr Med. 2025; 2025; 23(3): 297-308.
Animals ; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/drug therapy* ; Male ; Dysbiosis/drug therapy* ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects* ; Polysaccharides/therapeutic use* ; Prunella/chemistry* ; Mice ; Liver/metabolism* ; Plant Extracts/therapeutic use* ; Disease Models, Animal ; Diet, High-Fat

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is common in Singapore, with moderate to severe OSA affecting around 30% of residents. These consensus statements aim to provide scientifically grounded recommendations for the management of OSA, standar-dise the management of OSA in Singapore and promote multidisciplinary collaboration. METHOD: An expert panel, which was convened in 2024, identified several areas of OSA management that require guidance. The expert panel reviewed the current literature and developed consensus statements, which were later independently voted on using a 3-point Likert scale (agree, neutral or disagree). Consensus (total ratings of agree and neutral) was set a priori at ≥80% agreement. Any statement not reaching consensus was excluded. RESULTS: The final consensus included 49 statements that provide guidance on the screening, diagnosis and management of adults with OSA. Additionally, 23 statements on the screening, diagnosis and management of paediatric OSA achieved consensus. These 72 consensus statements considered not only the latest clinical evidence but also the benefits and harms, resource implications, feasibility, acceptability and equity impact of the recommendations. CONCLUSION The statements presented in this paper aim to guide clinicians based on the most updated evidence and collective expert opinion from sleep specialists in Singapore. These recommendations should augment clinical judgement rather than replace it. Management decisions should be individualised, taking into account the patient's clinical characteristics, as well as patient and caregiver concerns and preferences.
Humans ; Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/diagnosis* ; Singapore ; Consensus ; Adult

OBJECTIVE: To observe the clinical efficacy of Fu's subcutaneous needling based on "multi-joint muscle spiral balance chain" theory for cervical vertigo (CV) and its effect on blood flow velocity of vertebral artery. METHODS: A total of 60 patients with CV were randomized into a Fu's subcutaneous needling group and a medication group, 30 cases in each one. In the Fu's subcutaneous needling group, Fu's subcutaneous needling was delivered at Dazhui (GV14), the flexible tube was retained for 5 min after sweeping manipulation, and the treatment was given once every other day, 3 times a week for 3 weeks. In the medication group, betahistine mesylate tablet and diclofenac sodium dual-release enteric capsule were taken orally for continuous 3 weeks. Before treatment, after treatment, and in follow-up of one month after treatment completion, the scores of dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) and visual analogue scale (VAS) were observed; before and after treatment, the blood flow velocity of vertebral artery was measured by transcranial Doppler, and the clinical efficacy was evaluated after treatment in the two groups. RESULTS: After treatment and in follow-up, each item scores and total scores of DHI were decreased compared with those before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05); the VAS scores after treatment in the two groups, as well as the VAS score in follow-up of the Fu's subcutaneous needling group, were decreased compared with those before treatment (P<0.05). In the Fu's subcutaneous needling group, after treatment and in follow-up, the physical scores and the total scores of DHI, and the VAS scores were lower than those in the medication group (P<0.05); in follow-up, the emotional and functional scores of DHI were lower than those in the medication group (P<0.05). After treatment, the mean blood flow velocity (Vm) of the left vertebral artery (LVA) and the right vertebral artery (RVA) was increased compared with that before treatment in the two groups (P<0.05), and the Vm of LVA and RVA in the Fu's subcutaneous needling group was higher than that in the medication group (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 100.0% (30/30) in the Fu's subcutaneous needling group, which was superior to 73.3% (22/30) in the medication group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION Fu's subcutaneous needling based on the "multi-joint muscle spiral balance chain" theory can effectively alleviate the vertigo and neck pain, and improve the blood flow velocity of vertebral artery in CV patients, and has a long-term therapeutic effect.
Humans ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Acupuncture Therapy/instrumentation* ; Vertebral Artery/physiopathology* ; Adult ; Vertigo/physiopathology* ; Aged ; Blood Flow Velocity ; Treatment Outcome ; Acupuncture Points ; Young Adult

Objective:To explore the influencing factors of the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses and construct a theoretical framework, so as to provide reference for developing intervention measures and improving the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses.Methods:The grounded theory research method was used. From July to August 2024, 17 intravenous therapy managers/specialist nurses from six ClassⅢ Grade A hospitals in Beijing City and Hebei Province were selected through purposive and theoretical sampling for semi-structured interviews. NVivo 12.0 was used for data analysis, including open, axial, and selective coding.Results:A total of 79 initial concepts were extracted and summarized into 25 domains, which were consolidated into five main domains, including organizational management and support, personal characteristics and professional identity, team collaboration and communication, work performance and incentive mechanisms, and external environment and opportunities. On this basis, a theoretical framework for factors influencing the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses was constructed.Conclusions:This study constructs a theoretical framework for factors influencing the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses. Managers can leverage this theoretical framework to develop targeted intervention strategies that enhance the effectiveness of intravenous therapy specialist nurses and optimize the allocation of nursing human resources.

Objective To explore the effectiveness of an integrated laparoscopic simulation training course (best essential surgical technique training, BEST) in enhancing laparoscopic peritoneal suturing techniques in surgical residents.Methods As an integrated two-stage program, the BEST course applied basic laparoscopic training system with simple molds in phase Ⅰ training, and then adopted advanced laparoscopic training system, 3D Laparoscope and ex-vivo animal models in phase Ⅱ training. The laparoscopic suturing techniques were practiced in phase Ⅱ training. From August 2021 to July 2024, surgical residents in the second year of the national standardized training program were divided into pilot and control groups based on whether they had undergone the BEST course. Two cases of laparoscopic peritoneal suture were performed by the surgical residents under supervision in the department of gastrointestinal surgery. The operative time, quality of suture, and independent completion rate were compared between the two groups.Results A total of 33 surgical residents (19 in pilot group and 14 in control group) were included in this study, and a total of 66 cases of laparoscopic peritoneal suture were performed (38 in pilot group and 28 in control group). The operative time was significantly shorter in pilot group than that in control group (15.7 min vs. 17.5 min, P=0.025). The quality of suture was significantly better in pilot group compared to control group (P=0.023). In pilot group, all peritoneal sutures were performed by residents independently, whereas in control group, 3 cases (10.7%) were assisted by the supervisor, and the independent completion rate was different significantly (P=0.039).Conclusions The BEST course can help improve surgical residents′ laparoscopic peritoneal suturing techniques and could be promoted in the national standardized training program for surgical residents.

Objective:To explore the influencing factors of the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses and construct a theoretical framework, so as to provide reference for developing intervention measures and improving the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses.Methods:The grounded theory research method was used. From July to August 2024, 17 intravenous therapy managers/specialist nurses from six ClassⅢ Grade A hospitals in Beijing City and Hebei Province were selected through purposive and theoretical sampling for semi-structured interviews. NVivo 12.0 was used for data analysis, including open, axial, and selective coding.Results:A total of 79 initial concepts were extracted and summarized into 25 domains, which were consolidated into five main domains, including organizational management and support, personal characteristics and professional identity, team collaboration and communication, work performance and incentive mechanisms, and external environment and opportunities. On this basis, a theoretical framework for factors influencing the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses was constructed.Conclusions:This study constructs a theoretical framework for factors influencing the use of intravenous therapy specialist nurses. Managers can leverage this theoretical framework to develop targeted intervention strategies that enhance the effectiveness of intravenous therapy specialist nurses and optimize the allocation of nursing human resources.

OBJECTIVE: To explore characteristics, management strategies and preventive measures of fusion device displacement after oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) in treating lumbar lesions. METHODS: The clinical data of 12 patients with fusion device displacement after OLIF for lumbar lesions in 4 medical centers from October 2014 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, including 4 males and 8 females, aged from 53 to 81 years old;2 patients with lumbar disc degeneration, 4 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, 3 patients with lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis and 3 patients with lumbar degenerative kyphosis;preoperative dual-energy X-ray bone mineral density (BMD) was detected in 1 patient with T-value > -1 SD, 5 patients with T-value >-1~-2.5 SD, and 6 patients with T-value <-2.5 SD;9 patients with single-segment fusion, 1 patient with 2-segment fusion, and 2 patients with 3-segment fusion;standalone OLIF was performed in 9 patients and OLIF combined with posterior pedicle screws in 3 patients. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to evaluate low back pain and lumbar function recovery at the time of fusion graft displacement and at the latest follow-up, respectively. In addition, according to imaging results during follow-up, the fusion device subsidence or redisplacement, loosening or fracture of internal fixation, and interbody fusion were observed, and the changes in the height of interbody space on the segment with fusion device displacement were measured and compared. RESULTS: There were no necrosis or infection in skin incision of 10 patients after reoperation, and 12 patients were followed up for 12 to 48 months. VAS for low back pain decreased from 3 to 8 points at the time of fusion device displacement to 0 to 2 points at the latest follow-up. ODI recovered from 31% to 51% at the time of fusion transfer to 5% to 13% at the latest follow-up. There was no loosening or fracture of the pedicle screw system during follow-up. All 11 patients with bone grafting with fusion apparatus had fusion apparatus subsidence and no further displacement of fusion apparatus. The vertebral space height recovered from 9.0 to 12.7 mm at the time of fusion graft displacement to 8.0 to 11.8 mm at the latest follow-up. Interbody fusion was obtained in all patients except 1 with no imaging results at the latest follow-up. CONCLUSION OLIF could be used for fusion of lumbar lesions, and there is a risk of fusion organ displacement after operation, especially in cases of bone loss or osteoporosis before surgery, end-plate injury during surgery, and Stand-alone mode, and most of them occur within 3 months after operation. Surgery is required for the transposition of the fusion apparatus in the Stand-alone OLIF mode during the primary operation. Although good clinical results could be obtained by timely detection and accurate treatment, it is still necessary to emphasize the precise selection of cases before operation, the appropriate application of OLIF, and precise operation during operation to prevent displacement of fusion device.
Humans ; Spinal Fusion/instrumentation* ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Lumbar Vertebrae/surgery* ; Retrospective Studies ; Pedicle Screws

Central precocious puberty secondary to Leydig cell tumors is rare in children. We retrospectively analyzed the mid- to long-term follow-up data of patients with Leydig cell tumors. The clinical data of 12 consecutive patients who were treated at Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University (Beijing, China), between January 2016 and October 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical evaluations, including physical examination, hormone examination, serum tumor marker analysis, abdominal and scrotal ultrasound, chest X-ray, and bone age measurement, were conducted before surgery and at follow-up time points. Surgical approaches were selected according to the individual conditions. Patients with an abnormal hormonal status and suspected of having central precocious puberty were referred to endocrinologists to confirm the diagnosis. Subsequently, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy was proposed. The mean patient age was 81.3 (range: 40-140) months at the time of the operation. Ten patients had peripheral precocious puberty at admission. All patients had elevated preoperative testosterone levels, whereas tumor marker levels were normal. Testis-sparing surgery was performed in eleven patients, and radical orchiectomy was performed in one patient. The follow-up duration (mean ± standard deviation) was 36.2 ± 25.3 months. Five patients had central precocious puberty, with a mean duration of 3.4 (range: 1-6) months postoperatively. Three patients were receiving gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy, and good suppression of puberty was observed. No risk factors were found for secondary central precocious puberty. There was a high prevalence of central precocious puberty secondary to Leydig cell tumors in our study. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy has satisfactory treatment effects. Larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed in future studies.
Humans ; Male ; Puberty, Precocious/etiology* ; Testicular Neoplasms/surgery* ; Child ; Retrospective Studies ; Leydig Cell Tumor/complications* ; Child, Preschool ; Orchiectomy ; Testosterone/blood* ; Tertiary Care Centers

Objective:To investigate the effect of exosomes loaded with Lycium barbarum miRNA(Lb-miR2911)on spermato-genic function recovery in non-obstructive azoospermia(NOA)rats through cross-regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways.Methods:We established an NOA model in 30 four-week-old male SD rats by intraperitoneal injection of busulfan.At 5 weeks after modeling,we equally randomized the rats into a model control group(MC,untreated),an Lb-miR2911EXO group(Lb-miR2911EXO,treated by intratesticular injection of Lb-miR2911-loaded exosomes),and a sham group(Shame,treated by intratesticular injection of exosomes-empty drug),with another 10 male SD rats taken as normal controls(NC).We observed the uptake and metabolic changes of Lb-miR2911 in the testis tissue of the rats by RNA FISH at 2 and 6 weeks after treatment,detected cell proliferation,spermatogenesis and gene expressions of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in the testis tissue by Transcriptome sequencing analysis combined with Western blot and RT-PCR at 12 weeks,evaluated the recovery of the spermatogenic function based on the testis tissue morphology and sperm quality,and assessed the organ toxicity of Lb-miR2911 in the tissue and organs of the rats based on histomorphological analysis and the levels of serum TNF-α,IL-1β,Aspartate aminotransferase(AST),Alanine aminotransferase(ALT)and other relevant indi-cators.Results:After 12 weeks of treatment,histomorphological analysis showed regular arrangement of spermatogenic cells at all levels in the testis tissue,with a large number of mature sperm in the tubular lumen,and with significantly higher Johnsen scores,tes-tis weight,testicular index,sperm concentration and sperm motility in the Lb-miR2911EXO than in the sham group(all P<0.05).Compared with the model controls,the Lb-miR2911EXO group exhibited remarkably down-regulated gene expression of DACT3(P<0.05),up-regulated expressions of DVL2 and β-catenin(P<0.05),elevated levels of p-DVL2 and β-catenin(nucleus)proteins(P<0.05),increased expressions of cell proliferation-related genes CCND1,CCNE1 and CCNE2(P<0.05)and spermatogenesis-related genes DMC1,CCR6,JAM2 and KLC3(P<0.05).No pathological changes were observed in the lung,liver and kidney tis-sues of the rats,or in the levels of serum TNF-α,IL-1β,AST,ALT,creatinine and urea nitrogen in the rats treated with Lb-miR2911EXO compared with the normal controls(P>0.05).Conclusion:Lb-miR2911-loaded exosomes promote spermatogenic function recovery in NOA rats through cross-regulation of the DACT3,Wnt and β-catenin signaling pathways.

Pyroptosis is the programmed death of cells accompanied by an inflammatory response and is widely involved in the development of a variety of diseases, such as infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegeneration. It has been shown that cellular scorching is involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension ( PAH) in cardiovascular diseases. Patients with PAH have perivascular inflammatory infiltrates in lungs, pulmonary vasculopathy exists in an extremely inflam-matory microenvironment, and pro-inflammatory factors in cellular scorching drive pulmonary vascular remodelling in PAH patients. This article reviews the role of cellular scorch in the pathogenesis of PAH and the related research on drugs for the treatment of PAH, with the aim of providing new ideas for clinical treatment of PAH.