1.Optimization of protection mechanisms for vulnerable populations in drug clinical trials: a case study of pediatric research participants
Guangxia WU ; Chuanhua DING ; Hui LI ; Hongying LI
Chinese Medical Ethics 2026;39(5):601-608
Drug clinical trials constitute a critical link in new drug development and an essential means to verify the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals. The protection of participants’ rights and interests and the prevention of risks directly affect the scientific ethics and social credibility of the trials. Vulnerable groups, due to restricted autonomous decision-making capacities or special social status, are more susceptible to safety risks. Children are a typical representative of vulnerable groups. Their physiological particularities, cognitive limitations, and dependence collectively epitomize the universal protection demands of vulnerable research participants. Taking children as an instance, this paper analyzes the current weak links in the protection of pediatric research participants. Integrating advanced international experience with domestic practical demands, it comprehensively identified protection risk points at every stage and constructed a multi-stakeholder collaborative mechanism for the full-process protection of pediatric research participants. This mechanism incorporated seven main entities, including drug regulatory authorities, sponsors, researchers, and ethics committees, covering the pre-trial, intra-trial, and post-trial phases to meet the requirements of full-chain and multi-dimensional protection. It provided references for the subsequent establishment of a systematic protection mechanism for vulnerable populations.
2.Lead and cadmium co-exposure triggers genetic damage through oxidative stress and impaired expression of DNA repair genes
Xin LIU ; Zhiyuan HAN ; Kuibin HAN ; Yuhan PANG ; Xiaoyue ZHAO ; Yuting WANG ; Xiaoyan WU ; Tuanwei WANG
Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2026;43(5):556-564
Background Lead smelting workers are exposed to mixed heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). However, the specific associations and molecular mechanisms by which their combined exposure induces genetic damage remain unclear. Objective To clarify the association between combined Pb-Cd exposure and genetic damage and to explore the possible biological mechanisms through occupational epidemiological investigations and animal experiments. Methods (1) Population study: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 374 lead smelting workers in northern China. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to detect urinary levels of 8 metals including Pb and Cd, and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) was used to quantify blood levels of Pb and Cd. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay (CBMN) was used to assess genetic damage. Poisson regression was used to analyze the association between metal exposure and micronucleus rates. (2) In vivo experiment: Thirty SD rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control (pure water), Pb (300 mg·L−1 lead acetate), Cd (50 mg·L−1 cadmium chloride), combined exposure (Pb + Cd), and resveratrol intervention (Pb + Cd + 50 mg·L−1 resveratrol). After 8 weeks of ad libitum drinking water exposure, liver pathology, oxidative stress indicators [reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)], genetic damage (Comet assay and γ-H2AX) were evaluated. Furthermore, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis rates, and mRNA expression of DNA damage response (DDR), DNA repair, and apoptosis-related genes were measured. Results (1) The geometric mean (GM, 95%CI) of urinary Pb and Cd were 14.69 (13.14, 16.51) µg·L−1 and 2.11 (1.90, 2.33) µg·L−1, respectively; the blood Pb and Cd levels were 117.10 (105.59, 129.87) µg·L−1 and 4.55 (4.23, 4.89) µg·L−1, respectively among the 374 workers. The mean micronucleus rate was (1.64±0.081) ‰, with significantly higher rates in males (1.65±0.083) ‰ than females (1.53±0.334) ‰ (U=4.166, P=0.041). All Pb and Cd biomarkers were positively correlated with micronucleus rate (FR>1, P<0.05), with a significant interaction effect observed between Pb and Cd (FR>1, P<0.05). (2) In rats, co-exposure to Pb and Cd caused liver tissue damage and inflammatory infiltration. Significant increases were observed in lymphocyte ROS; GSSG and MDA in lung tissue increased, while GSH and CAT activity decreased. Comet assay indicators and γ-H2AX levels were significantly elevated. Co-exposure induced S-phase arrest and increased apoptosis. mRNA levels of DDR (ATM, ATR, Chk2, and P53) and pro-apoptotic genes (Bax and Caspase-3) were upregulated, while the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 and DNA repair genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, RAD51, RAD52, and CtIP) were downregulated. Two-way ANOVA confirmed synergistic effects on GSSG, Comet assay indicators, and ATR/Chk2 mRNA expression. Conclusion Occupational co-exposure to Pb and Cd synergistically induces genetic damage. This damage is mediated by oxidative stress and DNA damage, which activates the DDR pathway and inhibits the expression of DNA repair genes, ultimately leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
3.Lead and cadmium co-exposure triggers genetic damage through oxidative stress and impaired expression of DNA repair genes
Xin LIU ; Zhiyuan HAN ; Kuibin HAN ; Yuhan PANG ; Xiaoyue ZHAO ; Yuting WANG ; Xiaoyan WU ; Tuanwei WANG
Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2026;43(5):556-564
Background Lead smelting workers are exposed to mixed heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd). However, the specific associations and molecular mechanisms by which their combined exposure induces genetic damage remain unclear. Objective To clarify the association between combined Pb-Cd exposure and genetic damage and to explore the possible biological mechanisms through occupational epidemiological investigations and animal experiments. Methods (1) Population study: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 374 lead smelting workers in northern China. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to detect urinary levels of 8 metals including Pb and Cd, and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) was used to quantify blood levels of Pb and Cd. The cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay (CBMN) was used to assess genetic damage. Poisson regression was used to analyze the association between metal exposure and micronucleus rates. (2) In vivo experiment: Thirty SD rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control (pure water), Pb (300 mg·L−1 lead acetate), Cd (50 mg·L−1 cadmium chloride), combined exposure (Pb + Cd), and resveratrol intervention (Pb + Cd + 50 mg·L−1 resveratrol). After 8 weeks of ad libitum drinking water exposure, liver pathology, oxidative stress indicators [reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)], genetic damage (Comet assay and γ-H2AX) were evaluated. Furthermore, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis rates, and mRNA expression of DNA damage response (DDR), DNA repair, and apoptosis-related genes were measured. Results (1) The geometric mean (GM, 95%CI) of urinary Pb and Cd were 14.69 (13.14, 16.51) µg·L−1 and 2.11 (1.90, 2.33) µg·L−1, respectively; the blood Pb and Cd levels were 117.10 (105.59, 129.87) µg·L−1 and 4.55 (4.23, 4.89) µg·L−1, respectively among the 374 workers. The mean micronucleus rate was (1.64±0.081) ‰, with significantly higher rates in males (1.65±0.083) ‰ than females (1.53±0.334) ‰ (U=4.166, P=0.041). All Pb and Cd biomarkers were positively correlated with micronucleus rate (FR>1, P<0.05), with a significant interaction effect observed between Pb and Cd (FR>1, P<0.05). (2) In rats, co-exposure to Pb and Cd caused liver tissue damage and inflammatory infiltration. Significant increases were observed in lymphocyte ROS; GSSG and MDA in lung tissue increased, while GSH and CAT activity decreased. Comet assay indicators and γ-H2AX levels were significantly elevated. Co-exposure induced S-phase arrest and increased apoptosis. mRNA levels of DDR (ATM, ATR, Chk2, and P53) and pro-apoptotic genes (Bax and Caspase-3) were upregulated, while the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 and DNA repair genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, RAD51, RAD52, and CtIP) were downregulated. Two-way ANOVA confirmed synergistic effects on GSSG, Comet assay indicators, and ATR/Chk2 mRNA expression. Conclusion Occupational co-exposure to Pb and Cd synergistically induces genetic damage. This damage is mediated by oxidative stress and DNA damage, which activates the DDR pathway and inhibits the expression of DNA repair genes, ultimately leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
4.Research progress on ocular accommodative function in the mechanism of axial elongation
Jiale DIAO ; Peng WU ; Jiantao REN ; Shuai SHENG ; Xudong HUANG
International Eye Science 2026;26(7):1210-1215
Accommodative dysfunction, particularly accommodative lag, acts as a core hub connecting near work activity to myopic axial elongation. This review thoroughly explores the multidimensional biological mechanisms by which accommodative function drives axial growth. In addition to the classic pathway where hyperopic defocus signals induce retinal-choroidal-scleral biochemical remodeling, two other mechanisms are highlighted: a biomechanical pathway involving direct mechanical traction on the equatorial sclera caused by sustained ciliary muscle contraction, and a neural pathway where abnormal accommodative micro fluctuations degrade retinal image quality, thereby triggering abnormal ocular growth. Based on these comprehensive mechanisms, this paper systematically analyzes the principles of pharmacological(atropine), optical(orthokeratology, defocus lenses), and vision therapy interventions. Myopia progression results from the integrated regulation of optical defocus, mechanical stress, and neural dynamics. Future myopia control should advance toward precise, personalized combination strategies tailored to individual accommodative and genetic profiles.
5.Rotating gantries for particle therapy: technical principles, design considerations, and clinical efficacy analysis
Jun WU ; Chunfang HAN ; Wei WANG ; Chunyu WANG
Chinese Journal of Radiological Health 2026;35(2):298-302
This paper comprehensively explores the application value and current development status of rotating gantries in radiotherapy. First, it explains the concept of rotating gantries and their significant advantages in clinical treatment, including enhancing patient comfort, optimizing irradiation angles, and improving treatment stability. Next, an in-depth analysis of the global development of particle therapy rotating gantries is provided, covering the distribution and construction costs of proton and carbon ion therapy centers, as well as the practical applications and challenges of rotating gantries in different particle therapies. Additionally, the working principles of rotating gantries are described in detail, particularly the effects of rotational speed and magnetic rigidity on equipment size and performance. Furthermore, the factors that need to be comprehensively considered in the design of rotating gantries are systematically reviewed. Finally, through a comparative analysis of multiple clinical studies, it fully confirms the remarkable clinical advantages of rotating gantry systems over traditional fixed-beam systems in various cancer treatment scenarios. It also provides a reasonable outlook on their future development, pointing out that as technology advances and costs decrease, rotating gantries are expected to be widely adopted in medical institutions, bringing positive changes in cancer treatment.
6.Rotating gantries for particle therapy: technical principles, design considerations, and clinical efficacy analysis
Jun WU ; Chunfang HAN ; Wei WANG ; Chunyu WANG
Chinese Journal of Radiological Health 2026;35(2):298-302
This paper comprehensively explores the application value and current development status of rotating gantries in radiotherapy. First, it explains the concept of rotating gantries and their significant advantages in clinical treatment, including enhancing patient comfort, optimizing irradiation angles, and improving treatment stability. Next, an in-depth analysis of the global development of particle therapy rotating gantries is provided, covering the distribution and construction costs of proton and carbon ion therapy centers, as well as the practical applications and challenges of rotating gantries in different particle therapies. Additionally, the working principles of rotating gantries are described in detail, particularly the effects of rotational speed and magnetic rigidity on equipment size and performance. Furthermore, the factors that need to be comprehensively considered in the design of rotating gantries are systematically reviewed. Finally, through a comparative analysis of multiple clinical studies, it fully confirms the remarkable clinical advantages of rotating gantry systems over traditional fixed-beam systems in various cancer treatment scenarios. It also provides a reasonable outlook on their future development, pointing out that as technology advances and costs decrease, rotating gantries are expected to be widely adopted in medical institutions, bringing positive changes in cancer treatment.
7.Rotating gantries for particle therapy: technical principles, design considerations, and clinical efficacy analysis
Jun WU ; Chunfang HAN ; Wei WANG ; Chunyu WANG
Chinese Journal of Radiological Health 2026;35(2):298-302
This paper comprehensively explores the application value and current development status of rotating gantries in radiotherapy. First, it explains the concept of rotating gantries and their significant advantages in clinical treatment, including enhancing patient comfort, optimizing irradiation angles, and improving treatment stability. Next, an in-depth analysis of the global development of particle therapy rotating gantries is provided, covering the distribution and construction costs of proton and carbon ion therapy centers, as well as the practical applications and challenges of rotating gantries in different particle therapies. Additionally, the working principles of rotating gantries are described in detail, particularly the effects of rotational speed and magnetic rigidity on equipment size and performance. Furthermore, the factors that need to be comprehensively considered in the design of rotating gantries are systematically reviewed. Finally, through a comparative analysis of multiple clinical studies, it fully confirms the remarkable clinical advantages of rotating gantry systems over traditional fixed-beam systems in various cancer treatment scenarios. It also provides a reasonable outlook on their future development, pointing out that as technology advances and costs decrease, rotating gantries are expected to be widely adopted in medical institutions, bringing positive changes in cancer treatment.
8.Clinical features and influencing factors of misophonia severity
Weixin ZHANG ; Keyu ZHAO ; Yaping WU ; Yuehan ZHAO
Journal of Public Health and Preventive Medicine 2026;37(5):87-91
Objective To investigate clinical features and severity influencing factors of misophonia in psychiatric outpatients. Methods A total of 130 misophonia patients from Weifang People's Hospital (Oct 2023-Jun 2025) were assessed with scales and psychiatric interviews. Linear regression was used to analyze influencing factors. Results Among the 52.3% reported gradually worsening symptoms. Primary triggers were human oronasopharyngeal sounds (65.3%). Core emotional responses were disgust (86.2%) and anger (61.5%), with 75.4% experiencing loss of control. Common coping strategies included covering ears/wearing earplugs (66.1%) and avoidance (64.6%). Mean Amsterdam Misophonia Scale-Revised score was 26.4±5.2, indicating severe social dysfunction. Common comorbidities were obsessive-compulsive disorder (11.5%), depressive disorder (8.5%), and social anxiety disorder (5.4%). Multivariate analysis identified depressive disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder as independent factors affecting severity (all P<0.05). Conclusion Misophonia follows a chronic course with severe impairment in social functioning and quality of life. Obsessive-compulsive disorder, depressive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder are key factors influencing symptom severity.
9.Clinical Efficacy and Mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia in Children Based on Collateral Disease Theory: A Review
Qiuyan WANG ; Xuejun LI ; Ying DING ; Yibai XIONG ; Yudong WANG ; Yongbin YAN ; Min GAO ; Hongji WU ; Weifang ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(23):258-268
The collateral disease theory stands as one of the most instructive frameworks for elucidating the pathology of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP). Its characteristic pathological features—toxin damaging collaterals, dysfunction of Qi collaterals, and protracted illness involving collaterals—closely align with the manifestations of cytokine storms, immune dysregulation, and chronic damage induced by M. pneumoniae (MP). Drug-resistant MP further exacerbates these manifestations and poses challenges in clinical treatment, making it essential to clarify the intrinsic relationship between the collateral disease theory and MPP. However, existing studies still lack relevant elaboration, resulting in a gap in guidance by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory in clinical practice. Considering the instructive, scientific, and necessary role of the collateral disease theory in MPP, this paper thoroughly elucidates the pathological manifestations of MPP and the core evolutionary characteristics of collateral damage, and further provides a scientific interpretation from the perspective of collateral disease on the clinical efficacy and mechanism of TCM treatment of MPP over the past five years. This review aims to reveal the intrinsic relationship between the collateral disease theory and MPP, enrich the scientific connotation of TCM theory, and bridge the gap in TCM theoretical guidance, thereby providing scientific research clues for TCM treatment of MPP.
10.Status and influencing factors of impaired dignity in elderly incontinence-related dermatitis patients
Weifang ZHANG ; Jinlei DU ; Yulian WU ; Gutao PENG ; Qun YE ; Yuanxia WANG
Chinese Journal of Practical Nursing 2025;41(11):808-815
Objective:To investigate the status of dignity impairment in elderly incontinence-related dermatitis patients, and to systematically analyze the influencing factors in order to provide reference opinions for the formulation of medical strategies by clinical medical staff.Methods:Using the cross-sectional survey method, from April 15 to April 30, 2024, aged incontinence-related dermatitis patients were selected from 37 tertiary comprehensive hospitals in 10 provinces and municipalities, including Zhejiang Province, Sichuan Province, Guangdong Province, etc. by convenient sampling method. The general data questionnaire and Patient Dignity Inventory were used to investigate their current situation.Results:A total of 315 questionnaires were collected, 307 were valid, and the effective rate was 97.5%. Among 307 cases, 146 cases were males, 161 cases were females, aged (71.46 ± 9.35) years old. The incidence of impaired dignity in elderly patients with incontinence-related dermatitis was 49.5%(152/307). The average score of Patient Dignity Inventory was (45.50 ± 20.17). The results of multivariate regression analysis showed that farming ( OR = 2.405, 95% CI 1.108-5.217), individual industrial and commercial households ( OR = 5.680, 95% CI 2.504-12.888), the primary disease were respiratory diseases ( OR = 2.716, 95% CI 1.018-7.246) and nervous system diseases ( OR = 6.117, 95% CI 2.572-14.551) were risk factors for impaired dignity in elderly incontinence-related dermatitis (both P<0.05). Not living alone ( OR = 0.381, 95% CI 0.184-0.790) and self-rated family relationship harmony ( OR = 0.630, 95% CI 0.449-0.882) were protective factors for dignity impairment in elderly incontinence-related dermatitis patients (both P<0.05). Conclusions:There are many factors that affect the dignity of patients with incontinence-related dermatitis in the elderly, and medical staff should comprehensively consider a variety of factors and establish and improve a prevention and management mechanism suitable for the dignity of patients with incontinency-related dermatitis in the elderly.


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