1.Research on Electrical Impedance and Microwave Dual-modality Tomography Algorithm Based on Conditional Diffusion Models
Jin-Zhen LIU ; Xiang-Qian MENG ; Hui XIONG ; Li-Min ZHOU ; Chun-Chan LI
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(6):1780-1792
ObjectiveStroke poses a heavy burden due to its high mortality and morbidity rates. Accurate and real-time detection of lesions is pivotal for prompt clinical intervention and favorable prognosis. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) and microwave tomography (MWT) have emerged as compelling alternatives for stroke screening, owing to their non-ionizing, non-invasive and portable nature. EIT provides information on tissue conductivity, and MWT offers high sensitivity to changes in dielectric properties. However, single-modality imaging is inherently limited, EIT suffers from low sensitivity to deep-seated tissues and severe ill-posedness of inverse problems, whereas MWT is challenged by strong nonlinearity in inverse scattering and susceptibility to modeling errors. Consequently, the clinical utility of standalone EIT or MWT for stroke diagnosis remains constrained by poor spatial resolution and imaging artifacts. To improve the accuracy and robustness of stroke imaging, a dual-modality fusion conditional denoising diffusion probabilistic model (DM-DDPM) was proposed for high-precision dual-modality image reconstruction. MethodsA dual-encoder network with a symmetric architecture and independently trained parameters was constructed to extract heterogeneous features separately from EIT boundary voltage measurements and MWT scattered field signals. Attentional feature fusion (AFF) is employed to integrate complementary information from the two modalities adaptively, generating robust fused priors that suppress redundant noise while preserving key physical characteristics. Subsequently, the fused priors are embedded into a Transformer-based diffusion model via a cross attention mechanism to guide the reverse denoising process. This approach effectively reduces artifacts and enhances the stability of conductivity distribution reconstruction. Time step embedding is introduced to enable the network to perceive the diffusion stage and further improve the accuracy of noise prediction. ResultsSimulated experiments demonstrated that DM-DDPM significantly outperforms single-modality and multi-modality networks under various noise levels. A head model simulation dataset was constructed based on COMSOL Multiphysics, and tests were carried out under 50 dB, 40 dB and 30 dB signal-to-noise ratio levels. At 30 dB, the average relative error (RE) was below 0.20, while the structural similarity index measure (SSIM) and correlation coefficient (CC) remained above 0.90 and 0.89, respectively. Compared with single-modality and multi-modality networks, artifacts were significantly reduced, lesion edges were clearer, and localization was more accurate. The model maintains high reconstruction quality and strong robustness for single, double, and triple lesions simultaneously. Furthermore, physical experiments were conducted using a 16-electrode EIT system and a 16-antenna MWT system with asynchronous data acquisition. These experiments confirmed the feasibility of the method in real-world scenarios and demonstrated that it can robustly reconstruct simulated lesions despite environmental interference and measurement noise, validating its reliability for practical clinical applications. ConclusionThe proposed method effectively combines complementary dual-modality information with a conditional diffusion model. Low accuracy and poor noise resistance in single-modality imaging were effectively addressed, while the noise amplification issue caused by direct multimodal data fusion was avoided. The proposed algorithm exhibits strong anti-noise interference ability and high imaging stability in both simulation and physical experiments. Precise localization of stroke lesions with different quantities was achieved, providing a high-precision, and practical technical support for clinical stroke detection.
2.Differences in deltamethrin resistance and kdr gene mutation in Culex tritaeniorhynchus population in and outside the Yellow Sea wetland
Xiao-er ZHANG ; Zhi-ming WU ; Ye TIAN ; Qian CUI ; Yu-qian JI ; Huan WANG ; Shu-juan YANG ; Yi-chao ZHAO ; Yu WANG ; Hua-yu YIN ; Yu DING ; Guo-jin YAN ; Min-sen ZHAO ; Shou-gang ZHANG ; Bing-dong SONG ; Hong-na CHEN ; Jian GAO ; Wei-fang YANG ; Yu-fu ZHANG ; Hui LIU ; Hong-liang CHU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(2):101-107
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.
3.Long-chain Fatty Acids in Atherosclerosis: Focus on Metabolites and Mechanisms
Jin-Qian PAN ; Wang LIU ; Zhao-Bing LI ; Shi-Yang LIU ; Qin-Yi ZHOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(7):1826-1848
Atherosclerosis (AS) remains the core pathological basis underlying the high incidence and high rates of mortality and disability associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. Its essence is not merely lipid deposition, but rather an immune-mediated disease of the vascular wall characterized by an interplay of lipid metabolism disorders and chronic inflammation, with damage to vascular endothelial cells serving as the initiating event. As the disease progresses, it involves complex synergistic interactions among various cellular components, including endothelial cells, macrophages, and inflammatory cells, ultimately leading to plaque formation, instability, and even fatal thrombotic events. In recent years, the central driving role of lipid metabolic reprogramming in the progression of AS has garnered increasing attention from the scientific community. Among the vast array of lipid molecules, long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) have become a primary focus of research due to their exceptional physiological functions. Traditional views have primarily emphasized the basic physiological functions of LCFAs: serving as highly efficient energy substrates through mitochondrial β-oxidation and acting as key structural components of cellular phospholipid membranes. However, emerging evidence clearly indicates that the functions of LCFAs extend far beyond those of mere metabolic fuel. They also act as potent bioactive signaling molecules, playing an indispensable multidimensional role in the pathogenesis of AS. Equally noteworthy and representing a paradigm shift in cardiovascular research is the emerging theory of the “gut-heart axis”. This theoretical framework views the human gut microbiota—comprising trillions of microorganisms—as a critical and metabolically active “bioreactor”. A wealth of clinical and multi-cohort epidemiological studies have conclusively demonstrated that imbalances in the composition and function of the gut microbiota are highly correlated with the clinical risk and severity of AS. Within this axis, the gut microbiota serves as the primary processing hub for dietary lipids. It actively participates in the digestion and biochemical remodeling of LCFAs, thereby altering their saturation and chemical structure and generating a wide variety of gut microbial metabolites. The effects of these gut-derived lipid metabolites extend far beyond the local intestinal microenvironment. Upon entering the bloodstream, these circulating microbiota metabolites act as endocrine signals. Given the extreme complexity of the underlying mechanisms, a comprehensive elucidation of the synergistic and bidirectional interactions between LCFAs and the gut microbiota in vascular pathology is particularly urgent. Therefore, this article aims to provide a systematic review of the multidimensional regulatory mechanisms of LCFAs and their associated gut microbiota metabolites in the onset, progression, and clinical manifestations of AS. By thoroughly exploring the interaction patterns within the “LCFAs-gut microbiota-AS” triad, this review seeks to fundamentally expand our understanding of the pathogenesis of CVDs. More importantly, translating these mechanistic insights into clinical practice holds tremendous promise. We hope to provide a solid theoretical foundation for the future development of novel AS prevention and treatment strategies based on non-traditional approaches. These include precision nutritional interventions (i.e., dietary lipid intake plans tailored to an individual’s unique microbiome profile) and targeted microbiome modulation therapies (such as next-generation probiotics, prebiotics, or specific metabolite supplements). Targeting the gut as a “reactor” to treat vascular wall lesions represents a promising direction for future cardiovascular medicine.
4.A study on the necessity and feasibility of optimizing the donor health questionnaire
Chinese Journal of Blood Transfusion 2026;39(7):992-998
The Blood Donor Health Questionnaire is the first line of defense for ensuring blood safety and donor health, especially when detection technologies have window periods or limitations, making its screening role crucial. However, with the advancement of medical science and increasing demands on blood safety, the current content of China's questionnaire is becoming complex and lengthy. This leads to difficulties in donor comprehension, poor experience, increased burden on staff, and can potentially affect the accuracy of responses due to "questionnaire fatigue," thereby potentially weakening the safety barrier it is intended to provide. This article systematically reviews the origin and development of the donor questionnaire and elaborates on its core position and practical significance within the multi-layered blood safety strategy. On this basis, it focuses on analyzing the necessity and urgency of introducing an abbreviated donor health questionnaire for repeat donors, especially in the context of current challenges facing China's voluntary blood donation efforts, such as consolidating the base of regular donors, improving the donation service experience, and optimizing human resource allocation. By drawing on the mature experiences and empirical studies of countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany, this article demonstrates the feasibility of implementing an abbreviated donor health questionnaire under strictly defined conditions. It analyzes potential risks (such as information omission and eligibility misjudgment) and proposes multi-layered risk mitigation measures, including establishing scientific eligibility access and withdrawal mechanisms, developing supporting materials and procedures, exploring computer-assisted self-administered systems, and constructing a continuous monitoring and evaluation system. Finally, the article offers systematic recommendations for implementing an abbreviated donor health questionnaire in a phased and conditional manner in China, aiming to achieve an optimal balance between enhancing donation efficiency, improving the donor experience, and maintaining the bottom line of blood safety.
5.Mechanisms of Macrophage Glycolysis in Regulating Acute Lung Injury and TCM Intervention Strategies Based on Theory of "Spleen Failing to Disperse Essence"
Qian XU ; Maofu ZHANG ; Xiali LIANG ; Guoxiong HAO ; Jingwei LI ; Xiaojie JIN ; Yongqi LIU ; Xiangxia LUO ; Zhiming ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(18):218-226
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a critical respiratory emergency caused by various non-cardiogenic factors, including severe pulmonary and extrapulmonary infections, lung contusion, and sepsis. Its pathological features are centered on alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction, uncontrolled inflammatory responses, and impaired alveolar fluid clearance, manifesting as refractory hypoxemia and respiratory distress, with a poor clinical prognosis. Modern studies have revealed that mitochondrial dysfunction and glucose metabolic reprogramming in macrophages, characterized by hyperactivated glycolysis, drive pro-inflammatory polarization and represent a key mechanism leading to excessive inflammatory responses and disease progression in ALI. Therefore, targeting macrophage glycolysis may be a potential therapeutic strategy for ALI. The Plain Questions: Special Discussion on Channels and Vessels in Huangdi's Internal Classic states that "The spleen disseminates essence upward to the lungs". When the spleen fails in transport and transformation, the distribution of refined nutrients becomes disordered, resulting in the endogenous generation of turbid pathogens that obstruct the pulmonary collaterals, causing failure of lung dispersion and descent and leading to dyspneic reversal. This forms the dynamic pathological pattern of ''deficiency in the root with excess in the manifestation'', thereby proposing the core pathogenesis of ALI as ''spleen deficiency with transport dysfunction and turbid pathogens obstructing the lungs''. This process is intrinsically associated with the inflammatory cascade triggered by disordered macrophage glucose metabolism. Taking the theory of ''spleen failing to disperse essence'' as the entry point, the present study systematically elucidates the progressive pathological mechanism of "energy metabolism disorder-cytokine storm'' in ALI from the perspectives of the ''spleen deficiency-turbid obstruction'' pathogenesis and macrophage glycolysis-pro-inflammatory polarization. In addition, we summarize Chinese medicine compound formulas and monomeric components that ''restore spleen transport and eliminate turbid pathogens'', and explore their potential mechanisms in the treatment of ALI by regulating macrophage metabolic phenotypes to improve the state of ''spleen failing to disperse essence''. This provides a molecular basis for elucidating the ''spleen-lung'' energy metabolism dialogue, deepens understanding of the multi-target regulatory mechanisms of herbal prescriptions, and promotes the deep integration of classical theory with modern medicine.
6.Wall-broken ganoderma lucidum spore powder protects against DEN/CCl4-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in mice by modulating the Nrf2 pathway
Hai JIN ; Shuo WAN ; Qian LIU ; Siyu ZHAO ; Jing LI ; Jiaxing ZHU ; Jiaxing AN ; Feng JIN
Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2026;61(7):1176-1182
ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effect of wall-broken ganoderma lucidum spore powder (GLS) on a mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma and to explore its underlying mechanism. MethodsFifty 2-week-old C57BL/6J mice were divided into a control group, a model group and low, medium and high-dose GLS groups(0.25, 0.5, 1.0 g/kg ), with 10 mice in each group. A DEN/CCL4 mouse hepatocellular carcinoma model was established, and GLS was administered by gavage starting from the 8th week, once a day for 14 weeks. At the end of the final administration, the number of liver nodules was observed , and the serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The content of catalase (CAT) in serum and liver tissue was determined by ammonium molybdate method. The content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in serum and liver tissue was measured by microplate assay. The content of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) in serum and liver tissue was detected by colorimetric method. Immunohistochemistry (IHC-P) was employed to detect the protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). R eal-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction was utilized to detect the relative expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Kelch-like epichlorohydrin-associated protein 1 (Keap1), NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1), heme oxygenase-1 (Ho-1) and glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (Gclc) mRNA. ResultsCompared with the control group, the content of serum AFP were significantly higher in the model group (P<0.01), while the contents of CAT, GSH and GSH-PX in liver and serum were significantly lower in the model group (P<0.01). The relative expression of Keap1 and Nqo1 mRNA was significantly higher (P<0.01), the relative expression of Nrf2, Ho-1, Gclc mRNA relative expression was significantly lower (P<0.01), and the positive expression rate of PCNA was significantly higher (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the total number of liver nodules and content of serum AFP in the administered group were significantly lower (P<0.01), and the contents of CAT, GSH, and GSH-PX in the liver and serum of mice significantly increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The expression of Keap1 and Nqo1 mRNA significantly decreased (P<0.05). The expression of Nrf2, Ho-1 and Gclc mRNA significantly increased (P<0.05), and positive expression rate of PCNA significantly decreased (P<0.01). ConclusionGLS has a significant protective effect on DEN/CCL4 -induced mouse hepatocellular carcinoma model, and the mechanism of action is related to the regulation of oxidative stress in mouse liver.
7.Emergency medical response strategy for the 2025 Dingri, Tibet Earthquake
Chenggong HU ; Xiaoyang DONG ; Hai HU ; Hui YAN ; Yaowen JIANG ; Qian HE ; Chang ZOU ; Si ZHANG ; Wei DONG ; Yan LIU ; Huanhuan ZHONG ; Ji DE ; Duoji MIMA ; Jin YANG ; Qiongda DAWA ; Lü ; JI ; La ZHA ; Qiongda JIBA ; Lunxu LIU ; Lei CHEN ; Dong WU
Chinese Journal of Clinical Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 2025;32(04):421-426
This paper systematically summarizes the practical experience of the 2025 Dingri earthquake emergency medical rescue in Tibet. It analyzes the requirements for earthquake medical rescue under conditions of high-altitude hypoxia, low temperature, and low air pressure. The paper provides a detailed discussion on the strategic layout of earthquake medical rescue at the national level, local government level, and through social participation. It covers the construction of rescue organizational systems, technical systems, material support systems, and information systems. The importance of building rescue teams is emphasized. In high-altitude and cold conditions, rapid response, scientific decision-making, and multi-party collaboration are identified as key elements to enhance rescue efficiency. By optimizing rescue organizational structures, strengthening the development of new equipment, and promoting telemedicine technologies, the precision and effectiveness of medical rescue can be significantly improved, providing important references for future similar disaster rescues.
8.Research on the Correlation between Balance Function and Core Muscles in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Si-Jia LI ; Qing YUE ; Qian-Jin LIU ; Yan-Hua LIANG ; Tian-Tian ZHOU ; Xiao-Song LI ; Tian-Yang FENG ; Tong ZHANG
Neurospine 2025;22(1):264-275
Objective:
This study aimed to explore the correlation between balance function and core muscle activation in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), compared to healthy individuals.
Methods:
A total of 24 AIS patients and 25 healthy controls were recruited. The limits of stability (LOS) test were conducted to assess balance function, while surface electromyography was used to measure the activity of core muscles, including the internal oblique, external oblique, and multifidus. Diaphragm thickness was measured using ultrasound during different postural tasks. Center of pressure (COP) displacement and trunk inclination distance were also recorded during the LOS test.
Results:
AIS patients showed significantly greater activation of superficial core muscles, such as the internal and external oblique muscles, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Diaphragm activation was lower in AIS patients during balance tasks (p < 0.01). Although no significant difference was observed in COP displacement between the groups, trunk inclination was significantly greater in the AIS group during certain tasks (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
These findings suggest distinct postural control patterns in AIS patients, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions to improve balance and core muscle function in this population.
9.Biomechanical effects of postural and cognitive loads on trunk of workers performing assembly tasks at hand functional height
Huishuan WU ; Yu JIN ; Yan LIU ; Siyi ZENG ; Cunwen QIAN ; Kezhi JIN
Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2025;42(4):392-399
Background The neck, shoulders, and lower back are the primary affected areas of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. In manual tasks, combinations of hand functional height (defined as working height below the waist), awkward postures, and cognitive load are common risk factors. However, there is limited literature documenting how these factors specifically alter biomechanical load on the neck, shoulders, and lower back when working at hand functional height. Objective To explore quantitative differences in biomechanical load on the neck, shoulders, and lower back of workers performing manual tasks at hand functional height under different postures and cognitive load combinations. Methods A 3x2 within-subject design was implemented, with three postures (squat, kneeling, and stoop) and two levels of cognitive load (with cognitive load induced by a 2back task and without cognitive load). Ten male university students were recruited to perform a predetermined assembly task (a sequence of loosening and tightening screws) at hand functional height. Surface electromyography (sEMG) and 3D motion capture system were employed to assess the participants’ trunk biomechanical load in executing the tasks. Additionally, subjective perception, including fatigue, muscle pain, and cognitive load, were evaluated using scales. Results Significant variations in biomechanical load were observed across the three postures (P<0.05). The stoop posture exhibited the lowest muscle activation in most target muscles, except for the sternocleidomastoid, and showed the fastest decline in instantaneous median frequency (IMF) of the erector spinae, with a rate of (-0.050±0.008) Hz per unit time (0.128 s), and the greatest trunk flexion angle (35.14°±4.40°). Performing the task by squatting resulted in the highest muscle activation, especially in the upper trapezius, where maximum voluntary contraction percentage reached 20.07%±1.26%. In addition, the squatting posture also resulted in larger joint angles in the sagittal plane for the neck (−7.03°±2.70°), shoulders (60.20°±7.89°), and lower back (34.42°±4.20°). The kneeling posture showed intermediate muscle activation, the slowest IMF decline for the erector spinae in the lower back (−0.005±0.008) Hz per unit time (0.128s), and the joint angles were closest to neutral. The task performance results were also superior in the kneeling posture. Regarding cognitive load, no significant differences were found for most biomechanical indicators, except for subjective cognitive load scores, neck flexion, and shoulder external rotation angles. Conclusion In assembly tasks performed at hand functional height, kneeling results in moderate biomechanical load on the neck, shoulders, and lower back while also improves task performance compared to squatting and forward bending. Additionally, no significant effects of cognitive load under the 2back condition on biomechanical load are observed.
10.Research on the Correlation between Balance Function and Core Muscles in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Si-Jia LI ; Qing YUE ; Qian-Jin LIU ; Yan-Hua LIANG ; Tian-Tian ZHOU ; Xiao-Song LI ; Tian-Yang FENG ; Tong ZHANG
Neurospine 2025;22(1):264-275
Objective:
This study aimed to explore the correlation between balance function and core muscle activation in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), compared to healthy individuals.
Methods:
A total of 24 AIS patients and 25 healthy controls were recruited. The limits of stability (LOS) test were conducted to assess balance function, while surface electromyography was used to measure the activity of core muscles, including the internal oblique, external oblique, and multifidus. Diaphragm thickness was measured using ultrasound during different postural tasks. Center of pressure (COP) displacement and trunk inclination distance were also recorded during the LOS test.
Results:
AIS patients showed significantly greater activation of superficial core muscles, such as the internal and external oblique muscles, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Diaphragm activation was lower in AIS patients during balance tasks (p < 0.01). Although no significant difference was observed in COP displacement between the groups, trunk inclination was significantly greater in the AIS group during certain tasks (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
These findings suggest distinct postural control patterns in AIS patients, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions to improve balance and core muscle function in this population.


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