Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and spatiotemporal clustering of varicella in Lu'an City from 2005 to 2023, and to provide a scientific basis for optimizing varicella prevention and control strategies. Methods Data on varicella cases were collected through the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention Information System. Descriptive epidemiology, temporal trend analysis, seasonal analysis, spatiotemporal clustering analysis, and spatial autocorrelation analysis were conducted using QGIS, JoinPoint, SaTScan and GeoDa software. Results The average annual reported incidence rate of varicella in Lu'an City from 2005 to 2023 was 34.55/100,000, showing a trend of initial increase followed by a decrease. The peak incidence occurred from October to January of the following year (RR=1.97, LLR=1743.95, P=0.001). Students aged 0 to 19 was the primary affected group. Spatiotemporal scan analysis revealed four types of spatiotemporal clusters, with the cluster in Jin'an District from October 2017 to December 2023 being particularly prominent (RR=2.87，LLR=1734.15，P<0.001). Spatial autocorrelation analysis indicated significant clustering of varicella cases in the main urban area (Moran's I=0.216，Z=4.786，P=0.003). Conclusion The incidence of varicella in Lu'an City exhibits distinct seasonal and spatial clustering, and schools and kindergartens in the main urban area are the key to varicella prevention and control. It is necessary to enhance the monitoring of disease outbreaks during peak periods and in key areas, and to increase the two-dose vaccination rate for varicella in areas with case aggregation and among key populations.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the accuracy and safety of pedicle screw placement using 3D-printed auxiliary guides in scoliosis correction surgery for adolescents. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 51 patients who underwent posterior scoliosis correction surgery from January 2020 to March 2023. Among them, there were 35 cases of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and 16 cases of congenital scoliosis. The patients were divided into two groups based on the auxiliary tool used:the 3D-printed auxiliary guide screw placement group (3D printing group) and the free-hand screw placement group (free-hand group, without auxiliary tools). The 3D printing group included 32 patients (12 males and 20 females) with an average age of (12.59±2.60) years;the free-hand group included 19 patients (7 males and 12 females) with an average age of (14.58±3.53) years. The two groups were compared in terms of screw placement accuracy and safety, spinal correction rate, intraoperative blood loss, number of intraoperative fluoroscopies, operation time, hospital stay, and preoperative and last follow-up scores of the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 707 pedicle screws were placed in the two groups, with 441 screws in the 3D printing group and 266 screws in the free-hand group. All patients in both groups successfully completed the surgery. There was a statistically significant difference in operation time between the two groups (P<0.05). The screw placement accuracy rate of the 3D printing group was 95.46% (421/441), among which the Grade A placement rate was 89.34% (394/441);the screw placement accuracy rate of the free-hand group was 86.47% (230/266), with a Grade A placement rate of 73.31% (195/266). There were statistically significant differences in the accuracy of Grade A, B, and C screw placements between the two groups (P<0.05), while no statistically significant differences were observed in intraoperative blood loss, number of fluoroscopies, correction rate, or hospital stay (P>0.05). In the SRS-22 questionnaire scores, the scores of functional status and activity ability, self-image, mental status, and pain of patients in each group at the last follow-up were significantly improved compared with those before surgery (P<0.05), but there were no statistically significant differences in all scores between the two groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSION In scoliosis correction surgery, compared with traditional free-hand screw placement, the use of 3D-printed auxiliary guides for screw placement significantly improves the accuracy and safety of screw placement and shortens the operation time.
Humans ; Male ; Scoliosis/surgery* ; Female ; Adolescent ; Printing, Three-Dimensional ; Retrospective Studies ; Pedicle Screws ; Child

Osteoporosis is a prevalent skeletal condition characterized by reduced bone mass and strength, leading to increased fragility. Buqi-Tongluo (BQTL) decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, has yet to be fully evaluated for its potential in treating bone diseases such as osteoporosis. To investigate the mechanism by which BQTL decoction inhibits osteoclast differentiation in vitro and validate these findings through in vivo experiments. We employed MTS assays to assess the potential proliferative or toxic effects of BQTL on bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) at various concentrations. TRAcP experiments were conducted to examine BQTL's impact on osteoclast differentiation. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses were utilized to evaluate the relative expression levels of osteoclast-specific genes and proteins under BQTL stimulation. Finally, in vivo experiments were performed using an osteoporosis model to further validate the in vitro findings. This study revealed that BQTL suppressed receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast resorption activity in vitro in a dose-dependent manner without observable cytotoxicity. The inhibitory effects of BQTL on osteoclast formation and function were attributed to the downregulation of NFATc1 and c-fos activity, primarily through attenuation of the MAPK, NF-κB, and Calcineurin signaling pathways. BQTL's inhibitory capacity was further examined in vivo using an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model, demonstrating a strong protective effect against bone loss. BQTL may serve as an effective therapeutic TCM for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis and the alleviation of bone loss induced by estrogen deficiency and related conditions.
Animals ; NFATC Transcription Factors/genetics* ; Drugs, Chinese Herbal/pharmacology* ; Ovariectomy ; Osteoclasts/metabolism* ; Female ; Osteogenesis/drug effects* ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Rats ; NF-kappa B/genetics* ; Osteoporosis/genetics* ; Signal Transduction/drug effects* ; Bone Resorption/genetics* ; Cell Differentiation/drug effects* ; Humans ; RANK Ligand/metabolism* ; Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/genetics* ; Transcription Factors

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis(AIS)is a complex three-dimensional deformity involving coronal,sagittal,and axial planes,with a prevalence that should not be overlooked.With advancements in technology and in-depth research,an increasing number of hospitals and physicians are exploring standardized diagnostic and treatment approaches for AIS.Comprehensive and in-depth understanding is required for AIS,including its etiology,screening and diagnosis,classification,assessment and examination,treatment options,exploration of current focus,and evaluation of quality of life.Such understanding ensures that the diagnostic and treatment are scientific,standardized,and timely.Based on the principles of evidence-based medicine,a consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of AIS is reached after multiple discussions among spinal surgery experts,aiming to provide reference and guidance for clinical practice.

Objective To compare the surgical outcomes of the sequence of screw and rod placement for Lenke type 5C adolescent idiopathic scoliosis(AIS).Methods Lenke type 5C AIS patients who underwent posterior orthopedic fusion and fixation in our hospital from Jan.2013 to Dec.2020 were recruited.Based on surgical sequences,22 cases were assigned to bilateral group(after bilateral screw placement,orthopedics was performed on the convex side and then on the concave side),and 20 cases were assigned to convex group(screws placed on the convex side and performed orthopedics,followed by the concave side).The operation-related indicators(including operation time),imaging parameters,quality of life scores were compared between the 2 groups before and 2 years after surgery.Complications of the 2 groups were analyzed.Results The operation time in the bilateral group was significantly longer than that in the convex group([232.8±13.1]min vs[198.4±16.5]min,P＜0.01).At the last follow-up 2 years after operation,the Cobb angle and its correction rate in the convex group were better than those in the bilateral group([8.0±2.3]° vs[9.9±3.2]°,P=0.03;[81.9±5.4]%vs[77.8±5.8]%,P=0.02).The rate of pedicle screw breach rate was 5.4%(17/312)in the bilateral group and 1.4%(4/280)in the convex group,with significant difference(P＜0.01).At the last follow-up 2 years after operation,the treatment satisfaction of quality of life assessment of the bilateral group was 4.61±1.38,and that of the convex group was 4.50±1.44,but there was no significant difference between the 2 groups(P＞0.05).There were no abnormal electrophysiological monitoring or operation-related complications in the 2 groups.Conclusion For Lenke type 5C AIS,the convex side of pedicle screw placement and orthopedics followed by concave side of pedicle screw placement and orthopedics can achieve better surgical effect.

Objective To analyze the effect of Hsa-circ-0101216 on gemcitabine(GEM)chemotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer and its mechanism.Methods Differentially expressed circRNAs between GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cells and parent cells were screened using the GEO database.Pancreatic cancer GEM resistant cell lines(BxPC-3-GEM and Capan-1-GEM)were constructed by intermittent concentration gradient method.qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of Hsa-circ-0101216 in cells.GEM resistant pancreatic cancer cell lines were taken and divided into sh-circ-0101216 group(knockdown of circ-0101216),sh-NC group(transfected with sh-NC),and blank control group(untreated).CCK-8 assay and EdU proliferation assay were used to detect the half inhibitory concentration(IC50)of GEM and proliferation ability of cells in each group.Western blotting was performed to detect the expression of multidrug resistance-related protein 1(MRP1),breast cancer resistance protein(BCRP),and human equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1(hENT-1).A subcutaneous xenograft tumor model of human pancreatic cancer in nude mice was constructed,and sh-NC+GEM group and sh-circ-0101216+GEM group(n=6)were set up.The volume and weight of xenograft tumor in nude mice were compared between the two groups.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of MRP1,BCRP,and hENT-1 proteins in xenograft tumor tissues,and EDU proliferation assay was used to detect the proliferation ability of tumor cells.Results The GEO database screening showed that Hsa-circ-0101216 was up-regulated in GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cell lines.Pancreatic cancer GEM-resistant cell lines were successfully constructed,and the expression levels of Hsa-circ-0101216 and the IC50 value in GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cells BxPC-3-GEM and Capan-1-GEM were significantly higher than those in parental cells(P<0.05).In sh-circ-0101216 group,the IC50 values of GEM,cell viability,EdU positivity rate,and the expression levels of MRP1 and BCRP proteins in GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cells BxPC-3-GEM and Capan-1-GEM were significantly lower than those in blank control group and sh-NC group,while the expression level of hENT-1 protein was significantly higher(P<0.05 or P<0.001).In sh-circ-0101216+GEM group,the weight and volume of subcutaneous xenograft tumors in nude mice,the expression levels and positive expression rates of MRP1 and BCRP proteins in tumor tissues,and the EdU positive rate were significantly lower than those in sh-NC+GEM group,while the expression level and positive expression rate of hENT-1 protein were significantly higher(P<0.05).Conclusions Hsa-circ-0101216 is highly expressed in GEM-resistant pancreatic cancer cell lines.Its knockdown can inhibit the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells and enhance the chemosensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to GEM.The mechanism may be related to the regulation of transmembrane transporter protein expression.

People frequently struggle to juggle their work, family, and social life in today’s fast-paced environment, which can leave them exhausted and worn out. The development of technologies for detecting fatigue while driving is an important field of research since driving when fatigued poses concerns to road safety. In order to throw light on the most recent advancements in this field of research, this paper provides an extensive review of fatigue driving detection approaches based on electroencephalography (EEG) data. The process of fatigue driving detection based on EEG signals encompasses signal acquisition, preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. Each step plays a crucial role in accurately identifying driver fatigue. In this review, we delve into the signal acquisition techniques, including the use of portable EEG devices worn on the scalp that capture brain signals in real-time. Preprocessing techniques, such as artifact removal, filtering, and segmentation, are explored to ensure that the extracted EEG signals are of high quality and suitable for subsequent analysis. A crucial stage in the fatigue driving detection process is feature extraction, which entails taking pertinent data out of the EEG signals and using it to distinguish between tired and non-fatigued states. We give a thorough rundown of several feature extraction techniques, such as topology features, frequency-domain analysis, and time-domain analysis. Techniques for frequency-domain analysis, such wavelet transform and power spectral density, allow the identification of particular frequency bands linked to weariness. Temporal patterns in the EEG signals are captured by time-domain features such autoregressive modeling and statistical moments. Furthermore, topological characteristics like brain area connection and synchronization provide light on how the brain’s functional network alters with weariness. Furthermore, the review includes an analysis of different classifiers used in fatigue driving detection, such as support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), and Bayesian classifier. We discuss the advantages and limitations of each classifier, along with their applications in EEG-based fatigue driving detection. Evaluation metrics and performance assessment are crucial aspects of any detection system. We discuss the commonly used evaluation criteria, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Comparative analyses of existing models are conducted, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, we emphasize the need for a standardized data marking protocol and an increased number of test subjects to enhance the robustness and generalizability of fatigue driving detection models. The review also discusses the challenges and potential solutions in EEG-based fatigue driving detection. These challenges include variability in EEG signals across individuals, environmental factors, and the influence of different driving scenarios. To address these challenges, we propose solutions such as personalized models, multi-modal data fusion, and real-time implementation strategies. In conclusion, this comprehensive review provides an extensive overview of the current state of fatigue driving detection based on EEG signals. It covers various aspects, including signal acquisition, preprocessing, feature extraction, classification, performance evaluation, and challenges. The review aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and practitioners in the field of driving safety, facilitating further advancements in fatigue detection technologies and ultimately enhancing road safety.

Objective:To explore the efficacy of stage I modified posterior vertebral column resection (mPVCR) in the treatment of postoperative infection after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF).Methods:A retrospective case series study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 11 OVCF patients with post-PVP infection who were admitted to Zhengzhou Orthopedics Hospital from January 2016 to June 2022, including 4 males and 7 females, aged 61-81 years [(70.2±6.4)years]. Injured segments included T 9 in 1 patient, T 11 in 2, T 12 in 3, L 1 in 1, L 2 in 2, T 11-T 12 in 1, and T 12-L 1 in 1. American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading was grade D in 5 patients and grade E in 6. All the patients were treated with stage I mPVCR. The operation time and intraoperative bleeding volume were recorded. The values of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Dysfunction Index (ODI), and Cobb angle of the lesion segments before, at 2 weeks, 3 months after surgery, and at the last follow-up were compared. The loss of Cobb angle of the lesion segments at 2 weeks after surgery and at the last follow-up were compared, and the ASIA grading at the last follow-up was recorded. The infection control, bone healing, and the incidence of complications were observed at the last follow-up. Results:All the patients were followed up for 12-44 months [(26.0±9.4)months]. The operation time and intraoperative bleeding volume were 230-330 minutes [(279.2±28.6)minutes] and 500-1 100 ml [(840.9±184.1)ml] respectively. At 2 weeks, 3 months after surgery and at the last follow-up, the VAS scores were (4.0±0.8)points, (2.7±0.9)points, and (2.4±0.7)points respectively, which were all lower than that before surgery [(8.1±1.2)points] ( P<0.01); the ODI was (45.5±5.1)%, (30.0±6.5)%, and (18.5±3.6)% respectively, which were all lower than that before surgery [(78.7±6.2)%] ( P<0.01); the Cobb angle of the lesion segments were (7.9±1.4)°, (8.5±1.4)°, and (9.2±1.5)° respectively, which were lower than that before surgery [(25.5±9.2)°] ( P<0.01). The VAS and ODI were both improved at 3 months after surgery compared with those at 2 weeks after surgery ( P<0.05), while there was no significant difference in Cobb angle of the lesion segments ( P>0.05). The ODI was further improved at the last follow-up compared with that at 3 months after surgery ( P<0.05), while there were no significant differences in VAS or Cobb angle of the lesion segments ( P>0.05). The loss of Cobb angle correction of the lesion segment at the last follow-up was 0.96 (0.69, 1.45)° compared with that at 2 weeks after surgery and the rate of loss of Cobb angle correction of the lesion segment was 4.4(2.2, 7.4)%. At the last follow-up, the ASIA grading was grade E for all the patients, who were able to walk normally independently. The infection was all cured and good bony fusion was observed in the operated area at the last follow-up. Two patients had pleural effusion and pulmonary atelectasis, 1 incision fat liquefaction, and 1 pneumonia after the surgery. None of the patients had internal fixation failure and serious complications such as worsening neurological symptoms or death. Conclusion:Stage I mPVCR for the treatment of post-PVP infection in patients with OVCF is proved to attain significant pain relief and functional improvement, good correction results, effective reconstruction of spinal stability, complete removal of infected lesions, and few serious complications.

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of one-stage posterior-anterior combined operation for the treatment of abnormal fusion after facet joint dislocation in the subaxial cervical spine.Methods:A retrospective study of case series was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 10 patients with abnormal fusion after facet joint dislocation in the subaxial cervical spine who had been admitted to Department of Spine Surgery, Zhengzhou Orthopedic Hospital from January 2015 to May 2023. There were 7 males and 3 females with an age of (41.2±3.1) years. Preoperative American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading: 5 cases of grade A, 4 cases of grade B, and 1 cases of grade C. All the patients were treated with one-stage posterior-anterior combined operation. The surgical time and intraoperative bleeding volume were recorded. The ASIA grading was used to evaluate the improvements in nerve function of the spinal cord 3 months after surgery. The VAS scores, cervical intervertebral heights, and Cobb angles were compared between pre-surgery, 3 months after surgery, and the last follow-up. The fusion of intervertebral bone graft was evaluated 3 months after surgery using the Bridgell intervertebral fusion criteria. Complications were observed.Results:All patients were followed up for 15.5 (13.8, 20.5) months. The surgical time was (119.5±3.6) minutes, and the intraoperative bleeding volume (141.6±25.6) mL. Significant improvements in VAS score, cervical intervertebral height, and Cobb angle were observed at 3 months after surgery and the last follow-up compared with the pre-surgery values ( P<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference between 3 months after surgery and the last follow-up ( P>0.05). ASIA grading 3 months after surgery: 4 cases of grade A, 4 cases of grade B, and 2 cases of grade C. By the Bridgell intervertebral fusion criteria at 3 months after surgery: 9 cases of grade Ⅰ and 1 cases of grade Ⅱ, showing good intervertebral fusion. Surgery went on well for all patients, showing no postoperative complications such as aggravation of nerve lesion or vascular injury. Conclusion:In the treatment of abnormal fusion after facet joint dislocation in the subaxial cervical spine, the efficacy of one-stage posterior-anterior combined operation is definite because it can effectively reduce pain, restore the height and physiological curvature of the cervical intervertebral space, and achieve good intervertebral fusion.

To understand the distribution of ticks in the Wuwei Region,enrich tick species data,and provide a basis for the prevention of tick-borne diseases,tick were collected using flagging and tick-picking methods during the highest activity period from April to September in 2021 and 2022 in the mountainous areas of Wuwei City.The ticks were identified based on morpho-logical and molecular biological characteristics,and characteristic sequences were obtained.A systematic evolutionary tree was constructed using the neighbor-joining method in MEGA 11.0 software.In total,7 342 ticks collected in Wuwei,which be-longed to 5 species from 4 genera with in the Ixodidae family,which included Dermacentor nuttalli,Hyalomma asiaticum,Ixodes canisuga,Haemaphysalis longicornis and Haema-physalis danieli.Ticks of the same species clustered together into the same branch of an evolutionary tree.In the Wuwei Re-gion,five common tick species are found across various habi-tats,with each habitat featuring different distributions of tick species and populations.The Dermacentor nuttalli is the dom-inant tick species in this area.