Food-derived bioactive peptides (FBPs), particularly those with ten or fewer amino acid residues and a molecular weight below 1300 Da, have gained increasing attention for their safe, diverse structures and specific biological activities. The development of FBP-based functional foods and potential medications depends on understanding their structure‒activity relationships (SARs), stability, and bioavailability properties. In this review, we provide an in-depth overview of the roles of FBPs in treating various diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, liver diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases, based on the literature from July 2017 to Mar. 2023. Subsequently, attention is directed toward elucidating the associations between the bioactivities and structural characteristics (e.g., molecular weight and the presence of specific amino acids within sequences and compositions) of FBPs. We also discuss in silico approaches for FBP screening and their limitations. Finally, we summarize recent advancements in formulation techniques to improve the bioavailability of FBPs in the food industry, thereby contributing to healthcare applications.
Humans ; Peptides/therapeutic use* ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Functional Food ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/drug therapy* ; Biological Availability ; Alzheimer Disease/drug therapy* ; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/drug therapy* ; Hypertension/drug therapy* ; Liver Diseases/drug therapy* ; Bioactive Peptides, Dietary

Objectives:To develop a cervical kyphosis frailty index (CK-FI) and explore its clinical value in identifying high-risk patients undergoing cervical kyphosis correction surgery.Methods:In this retrospective case series, clinical data from 53 patients who underwent cervical kyphosis correction at the Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, between January 2019 and December 2023 were analyzed. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. There were 27 males and 26 females, with an age of (53.4±14.5) years (range: 15 to 83 years). Demographic data, comorbidities, laboratory results, radiographic parameters, and functional assessments were collected. Fifteen key indicators related to physiological reserve and stress tolerance in cervical kyphosis patients were identified via Pearson correlation analysis to establish the CK-FI. Differences in demographic characteristics, clinical outcomes, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay among CK-FI subgroups were analyzed using independent sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA,Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and chi-square or Fisher′s exact tests. Binary logistic regression was employed to determine independent risk factors for postoperative complications. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the predictive performance of CK-FI for postoperative complications. Results:Based on CK-FI scores, patients were classified into non-frail (CK-FI<0.3), frail (0.3≤CK-FI≤0.5), and severely frail (CK-FI>0.5) groups. The 30-day postoperative complication rate was 26.4% (14/53). Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that frailty ( OR=6.892, 95% CI: 1.239 to 38.353, P=0.028) and severe frailty ( OR=10.313, 95% CI: 1.877 to 56.659, P=0.007) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. ROC analysis revealed that CK-FI had an area under the curve of 0.777 (95% CI: 0.637 to 0.917, P=0.001), with a specificity of 70.3% and a sensitivity of 81.3% in predicting postoperative complications. Conclusions:The CK-FI serves as a valuable tool for early detection of high-risk patients with cervical kyphosis, aiding in individualized perioperative management, optimizing preoperative preparation, reducing postoperative complications, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The etiology of cervical and cervicothoracic deformities is complex, often resulting in spinal cord compression and neurological dysfunction, seriously affecting patients′ quality of life and life expectancy. This article focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical research of complex cervical and cervicothoracic deformities. In terms of surgical treatment, decisions are individualized based on the patient′s condition, with techniques such as anterior-posterior combined approach, crossing the cervicothoracic junction for fusion and fixation, and three-column osteotomy being used when necessary. Additionally, robot-assisted surgery and intraoperative navigation technologies are gradually being implemented. The enhanced recovery after surgery concept aids in optimizing postoperative rehabilitation and reducing the incidence of complications. In the future, artificial intelligence and innovative internal fixation devices are expected to further drive the personalization and precision of treatment. Overall, despite significant progress in the clinical management of cervical and cervicothoracic deformities, challenges remain in optimizing postoperative rehabilitation, reducing complications, and improving long-term quality of life in this field.

Cervical spine deformity (CSD) represent some of the most formidable challenges in spinal surgery, characterized by complex etiologies, high disability rates, and significant surgical risks. Recent advancements in the understanding of the pathophysiology and management strategies for CSD have facilitated a paradigm shift from traditional, experience-based approaches to precision medicine guided by multidimensional imaging data and comprehensive sagittal alignment assessment. Imaging-based classification systems have optimized the evaluation and classification of deformities by incorporating dynamic imaging and global sagittal balance parameters, thereby providing a reliable foundation for individualized treatment plans. Furthermore, the importance of comprehensive functional assessment has gained prominence, particularly with the use of the frailty index, which offers new insights for risk prediction and optimizing surgical decision-making. In terms of surgical strategies, the use of high-grade osteotomies has improved correction outcomes for complex deformities, yet also demands more stringent management of associated complications. The management of CSD is evolving towards greater precision and individualization, aiming to enhance outcomes by integrating multimodal imaging, functional assessments, and advanced surgical techniques-ultimately leading to better clinical prognosis and quality of life for patients.

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of transurethral incision for the treatment of ureterocele in infants.Methods:A retrospective analysis of 28 cases of ureterocele admitted from March 2012 to May 2023 were reviewed, all of which were less than 1 year old, 16 male and 12 female, with an average age of(5.7±3.5)months. The ureterocele was located on the left side in 8 cases, on the right side in 15 cases, and bilaterally in 5 cases. There were 12 cases of single system ureterocele, of which 7 cases were unilateral and 5 cases were bilateral. Duplex system ureterocele was observed in 16 cases, all of which were unilateral. Clinical manifestations: urinary tract infection in 13 cases, 11 cases of ureterocele or hydronephrosis and ureteral dilation were found during antenatal examination, and 4 cases of ureterocele were found after birth. Urological ultrasound, intravenous pyelography(IVP) and voiding cystourethrography(VCUG) were performed in all children, and 17 cases underwent magnetic resonance urolography (MRU), and confirm the diagnosis of ureterocele preoperatively. All of the cases were performed the transurethral incision.The ureterocele was punctured and incised 1-2 mm at the base of the bulge, and 2-4 points were punctured according to the bulge atrophy. Bilateral ureteroceles were punctured and incised simultaneously. Postoperative urine routine test, urinary tract color ultrasound and VCUG were performed to determine if there is urinary tract infection, hydronephrosis, ureteral dilation and bulging, and whether a second surgery is needed.Results:All operations were conducted successfully. The intraoperative bleeding was less than 3 ml and no intraoperative complications. The operative time was (28.4±10.3) min. The median postoperative follow-up was 34 (32, 36) months. Six cases underwent postoperative VCUG examination. Eleven children were recovered well with single systemic ureterocele. One child developed grade Ⅳ vesicoureteral reflux(VUR)and combined with bladder diverticulum, and ureterocele underwent open diverticulotomy and ureteral reimplantation six months after surgery. Nine children were recovered well with duplex systemic ureterocele. Six cases of children developed infection, of which 2 cases had an infection once within one month after TUI, and the other four cases still had intermittent infections after six months and VCUG was performed, and one case showed grade Ⅲ VUR of the lower ureter, which was observed conservatively, while the other three cases had enlarged cysts but no VUR, and upper heminephrectomy was performed, and the patients recovered well after surgery. Except for these 6 exceptions, in another case, after ten years of follow-up, the ureterocele became larger but no VUR, and the results were good after a second transurethral incision. There was no significant difference in the postoperative infections, new VUR cases, and secondary surgeries between the two groups.Conclusions:Transurethral incision has good surgical effect on children with single system ureterocele and duplex system ureterocele, and has advantages of easy operation, less trauma, safety and effectiveness, and few complications. It deserves to be recommended as the treatment of choice, especially for infants and young children.

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of transurethral incision for the treatment of ureterocele in infants.Methods:A retrospective analysis of 28 cases of ureterocele admitted from March 2012 to May 2023 were reviewed, all of which were less than 1 year old, 16 male and 12 female, with an average age of(5.7±3.5)months. The ureterocele was located on the left side in 8 cases, on the right side in 15 cases, and bilaterally in 5 cases. There were 12 cases of single system ureterocele, of which 7 cases were unilateral and 5 cases were bilateral. Duplex system ureterocele was observed in 16 cases, all of which were unilateral. Clinical manifestations: urinary tract infection in 13 cases, 11 cases of ureterocele or hydronephrosis and ureteral dilation were found during antenatal examination, and 4 cases of ureterocele were found after birth. Urological ultrasound, intravenous pyelography(IVP) and voiding cystourethrography(VCUG) were performed in all children, and 17 cases underwent magnetic resonance urolography (MRU), and confirm the diagnosis of ureterocele preoperatively. All of the cases were performed the transurethral incision.The ureterocele was punctured and incised 1-2 mm at the base of the bulge, and 2-4 points were punctured according to the bulge atrophy. Bilateral ureteroceles were punctured and incised simultaneously. Postoperative urine routine test, urinary tract color ultrasound and VCUG were performed to determine if there is urinary tract infection, hydronephrosis, ureteral dilation and bulging, and whether a second surgery is needed.Results:All operations were conducted successfully. The intraoperative bleeding was less than 3 ml and no intraoperative complications. The operative time was (28.4±10.3) min. The median postoperative follow-up was 34 (32, 36) months. Six cases underwent postoperative VCUG examination. Eleven children were recovered well with single systemic ureterocele. One child developed grade Ⅳ vesicoureteral reflux(VUR)and combined with bladder diverticulum, and ureterocele underwent open diverticulotomy and ureteral reimplantation six months after surgery. Nine children were recovered well with duplex systemic ureterocele. Six cases of children developed infection, of which 2 cases had an infection once within one month after TUI, and the other four cases still had intermittent infections after six months and VCUG was performed, and one case showed grade Ⅲ VUR of the lower ureter, which was observed conservatively, while the other three cases had enlarged cysts but no VUR, and upper heminephrectomy was performed, and the patients recovered well after surgery. Except for these 6 exceptions, in another case, after ten years of follow-up, the ureterocele became larger but no VUR, and the results were good after a second transurethral incision. There was no significant difference in the postoperative infections, new VUR cases, and secondary surgeries between the two groups.Conclusions:Transurethral incision has good surgical effect on children with single system ureterocele and duplex system ureterocele, and has advantages of easy operation, less trauma, safety and effectiveness, and few complications. It deserves to be recommended as the treatment of choice, especially for infants and young children.

Objectives:To develop a cervical kyphosis frailty index (CK-FI) and explore its clinical value in identifying high-risk patients undergoing cervical kyphosis correction surgery.Methods:In this retrospective case series, clinical data from 53 patients who underwent cervical kyphosis correction at the Department of Orthopedics, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, between January 2019 and December 2023 were analyzed. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 12 months. There were 27 males and 26 females, with an age of (53.4±14.5) years (range: 15 to 83 years). Demographic data, comorbidities, laboratory results, radiographic parameters, and functional assessments were collected. Fifteen key indicators related to physiological reserve and stress tolerance in cervical kyphosis patients were identified via Pearson correlation analysis to establish the CK-FI. Differences in demographic characteristics, clinical outcomes, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay among CK-FI subgroups were analyzed using independent sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA,Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and chi-square or Fisher′s exact tests. Binary logistic regression was employed to determine independent risk factors for postoperative complications. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the predictive performance of CK-FI for postoperative complications. Results:Based on CK-FI scores, patients were classified into non-frail (CK-FI<0.3), frail (0.3≤CK-FI≤0.5), and severely frail (CK-FI>0.5) groups. The 30-day postoperative complication rate was 26.4% (14/53). Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that frailty ( OR=6.892, 95% CI: 1.239 to 38.353, P=0.028) and severe frailty ( OR=10.313, 95% CI: 1.877 to 56.659, P=0.007) were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. ROC analysis revealed that CK-FI had an area under the curve of 0.777 (95% CI: 0.637 to 0.917, P=0.001), with a specificity of 70.3% and a sensitivity of 81.3% in predicting postoperative complications. Conclusions:The CK-FI serves as a valuable tool for early detection of high-risk patients with cervical kyphosis, aiding in individualized perioperative management, optimizing preoperative preparation, reducing postoperative complications, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The etiology of cervical and cervicothoracic deformities is complex, often resulting in spinal cord compression and neurological dysfunction, seriously affecting patients′ quality of life and life expectancy. This article focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical research of complex cervical and cervicothoracic deformities. In terms of surgical treatment, decisions are individualized based on the patient′s condition, with techniques such as anterior-posterior combined approach, crossing the cervicothoracic junction for fusion and fixation, and three-column osteotomy being used when necessary. Additionally, robot-assisted surgery and intraoperative navigation technologies are gradually being implemented. The enhanced recovery after surgery concept aids in optimizing postoperative rehabilitation and reducing the incidence of complications. In the future, artificial intelligence and innovative internal fixation devices are expected to further drive the personalization and precision of treatment. Overall, despite significant progress in the clinical management of cervical and cervicothoracic deformities, challenges remain in optimizing postoperative rehabilitation, reducing complications, and improving long-term quality of life in this field.

Cervical spine deformity (CSD) represent some of the most formidable challenges in spinal surgery, characterized by complex etiologies, high disability rates, and significant surgical risks. Recent advancements in the understanding of the pathophysiology and management strategies for CSD have facilitated a paradigm shift from traditional, experience-based approaches to precision medicine guided by multidimensional imaging data and comprehensive sagittal alignment assessment. Imaging-based classification systems have optimized the evaluation and classification of deformities by incorporating dynamic imaging and global sagittal balance parameters, thereby providing a reliable foundation for individualized treatment plans. Furthermore, the importance of comprehensive functional assessment has gained prominence, particularly with the use of the frailty index, which offers new insights for risk prediction and optimizing surgical decision-making. In terms of surgical strategies, the use of high-grade osteotomies has improved correction outcomes for complex deformities, yet also demands more stringent management of associated complications. The management of CSD is evolving towards greater precision and individualization, aiming to enhance outcomes by integrating multimodal imaging, functional assessments, and advanced surgical techniques-ultimately leading to better clinical prognosis and quality of life for patients.

OBJECTIVE To screen out the pharmacodynamic substances of Cistanches Herba aqueous extracts, explore the basis of the pharmacodynamic substances and their mechanism of action in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy(DN), based on the spectral relationship between the mass spectral peak areas of different elution sites of Cistanches Herba aqueous extracts and their anti-DN effects. METHODS UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS technique was used to characterise the chromatographic peaks; MTT method was used to detect the effects of different elution sites of Cistanches Herba aqueous extract on the proliferation of high glucose and high fat HK-2 cells; grey correlation analysis and partial least squares method were used to analyse the spectral relationship between mass spectrometry peak area and anti-DN activity. MTT method was used to determine the anti-DN activities of the individual components of Cistanches Herba aqueous extract; biochemical kit and ELISA were used to determine the levels of oxidative indicators(SOD, GSH-P) and inflammatory factors(IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β); Western blotting was used to detect the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. RESULTS UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS technique speculated and identified 72 common compounds; In Cistanches Herba aqueous extracts, water, 20% ethanol, and 40% ethanol-eluted sites differentially increased the proliferation rate of HK-2 cells in a high-sugar, high-fat environment; Partial least squares and grey correlation analyses showed that the constituents of the aqueous extracts of Cistanches Herba with greater anti-DN contributions were 8-epideoxymatricinic acid, geniposidic acid, pinoresinol, betaine and syringin, et al. MTT assay reveals that 8-epi-deoxystrychnic acid and geniposidic acid had significant proliferative effects on HK-2 cells in a high glucose and high fat environment; Biochemical kit and ELISA showed that 8-epideoxystrychnic acid and geniposidic acid were able to up-regulate the activity of SOD and GSH-Px, and at the same time they had an inhibitory effect on the expression of inflammatory factors IL-1β, TNF-α and TGF-β. Western blotting results showed that 8-epideoxystrychnic acid and geniposidic acid were able to down-regulate and up-regulate the markers of dermal mesenchymal transition: α-SMA, Collagen Ⅰ and E-cadherin, and they could exert anti-DN effects by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt pathway. CONCLUSION The two compounds, 8-epideoxystrychnic acid and geniposidic acid, which are screened by the spectroeffective relationship of anti-DN among the many chemical constituents contained in Cistanches Herba, can affect oxidative stress, inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of renal tubular cells by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, and improve renal pathology, degree of fibrosis and renal function, which will be useful for the in-depth study of aqueous extracts of Cistanches Herba in the treatment of DN.