1.Rapid Qualitative Analysis Methods and Their Application in Implementation Science
Xuehan WEI ; Xiaoying CHEN ; Runze WANG ; Yingqian ZHANG ; Xuehan LIU ; Jin SUN ; Guoyan YANG ; Wei XIAO ; Chunli LU
Medical Journal of Peking Union Medical College Hospital 2026;17(2):546-556
Implementation science (IS) aims to systematically analyze and address the real-world gaps from evidence to practice and the influencing factors of the context. It is necessary to carry out qualitative research to gather relevant implementation outcomes. Nevertheless, traditional qualitative analysis has issues such as consuming a great deal of time and energy, and it is unable to promptly provide the crucial data required for implementation science research. The Rapid Qualitative Analysis (RQA) method, through semi-structured interviews and the adoption of techniques such as immediate data condensation and matrix analysis, can effectively shorten the cycle of qualitative data collection and data processing. RQA can promptly identify social determinants of health such as structural barriers, facilitators, and the behavioral characteristics of target groups. It provides a real-time basis for public health decision-making, the interpretation of complex social phenomena, and the process and effectiveness evaluation of research projects. Although RQA is difficult to conduct in-depth theoretical analysis based on grounded theory, its efficiency and flexibility make it the preferred tool for large-scale and time-sensitive research. Thus, it has been widely applied in implementation science research. This paper sorts out the core concepts and commonly used technical methods of RQA, as well as the differences between RQA and traditional qualitative analysis. It also explores the applications of RQA in intervention optimization, process evaluation, and implementation outcome evaluation. By integrating specific cases, this paper clarifies its application value in the field of implementation science. In the future, it is advisable to explore the integration of RQA with technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data, in order to bridge the gap between the transformation of scientific research achievements into practice. Under circumstances of limited resources or tight time constraints, RQA can be used to efficiently conduct implementation science research, providing convenient and scientific methodological and technical support for accelerating evidence-based practice.
2.Peyton's Four-Step Teaching Method for Intestinal Ultrasound Training: Efficacy and Practical Implications
Zihan NIU ; Xiaoyan ZHANG ; Zhaojue WANG ; Qingli ZHU ; Mengsu XIAO ; Li MA ; Yudi HE ; Wenbo LI
Medical Journal of Peking Union Medical College Hospital 2026;17(2):591-596
To evaluate the application value of the Peyton four-step teaching method in the standardized training of intestinal ultrasound and compare it with traditional teaching methods, so as to provide an optimized approach for clinical ultrasound training. Participants from the Department of Ultrasound at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between September 2024 and March 2025 were randomly assigned to either the traditional group or Peyton group. The traditional group followed the conventional "lecture- demonstration-practice" model, while the Peyton group implemented the standardized "demonstration-deconstruction-comprehension-execution" four-step approach. All training focused on standard intestinal ultrasound scanning techniques. After the training, the operational skills were independently evaluated by the instructors. To verify the reproducibility of the teaching method, the participants in traditional teaching group received additional Peyton method training after the initial assessment and underwent a second evaluation. A total of 18 participants were included in this study, with 9 in the traditional teaching group and 9 in the Peyton teaching group. Participants in the Peyton group demonstrated significantly higher scores than those in the traditional group at every anatomical site assessed (all The Peyton four-step method is significantly more effective than traditional teaching in improving residents' intestinal ultrasound skills, demonstrating its suitability as the preferred approach for standardized training programs.
3.Clinical observation of mycophenolate mofetil combined with Budesonide enteric capsules in the treatment of high-risk progressive IgA nephropathy
Li SHEN ; Yao ZHANG ; Yaping XIAO ; Yuewu TANG ; Ni DU
China Pharmacy 2026;37(7):927-932
OBJECTIVE To observe the clinical efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) combined with Budesonide enteric capsules in the treatment of high-risk progressive immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). METHODS A total of 150 adult patients with high-risk progressive IgAN who attended the Department of Nephrology, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital, between August 1, 2024 and March 1, 2025 were enrolled in this study. The control group ( n =94) received MMF combined with glucocorticoid, while the observation group ( n =56) received MMF combined with Budesonide enteric capsules. The 24-hour urine protein (24 h UP), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and albumin (ALB) levels of patients in both groups were compared at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months post-treatment. The complete response (CR) rate and overall response rate were calculated for both groups at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months post-treatment. Adverse reactions occurring during treatment were compared between the two groups. RESULTS Compared with before treatment, 24 h UP decreased significantly in both groups at different time points after treatment ( P <0.05), and ALB increased significantly ( P <0.05). However, there was no significant change in eGFR ( P >0.05). The 24 h UP in the observation group at 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment was significantly lower than that of the control group ( P <0.05), while the ALB level was significan tly higher ( P <0.05). However, at 6 months after treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in these two indicators between the two groups ( P >0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in eGFR between the two groups at different time points after treatment ( P >0.05). The overall response rates in the observation group at 1 and 2 months after treatment were significantly higher than those in the control group ( P <0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the overall response rate at the remaining treatment time points and the CR rate at all time points between the two groups ( P >0.05). Patients in the observation group had significantly lower rates of skin abnormalities, elevated blood glucose, and overall adverse reactions compared with the control group ( P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS Compared with MMF combined with glucocorticoids, MMF combined with Budesonide enteric capsules for the treatment of high-risk progressive IgAN patients can reduce proteinuria and improve serum ALB levels more quickly, significantly increase the early overall response rate, and significantly reduce glucocorticoid-related skin adverse reactions, blood glucose elevation, and the overall incidence of adverse reactions, demonstrating a better short-term benefits.
4.Arginine Metabolic Disorder in Heart Failure Rats: Analysis Based on Targeted Metabolomics and Bioinformatics
Zeyu LI ; Xiaoqing WANG ; Zhengyu FANG ; Yurou ZHAO ; He XIAO ; Penghaobang LIU ; Haiming ZHANG ; Chunyan LIU ; Yanhong HU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):229-237
ObjectiveThis study systematically analyzed the arginine metabolic dysregulation in the rat model of heart failure (HF), providing a modern scientific basis for elucidating the pathogenesis of HF and offering new insights for the prevention and treatment of HF with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). MethodsA thoracotomy was performed to ligate the left anterior descending coronary artery of rats, which induced acute myocardial ischemia and thus led to the development of post-myocardial infarction heart failure. The rats were divided into a sham surgery group and a model group, with eight rats in each group. Serum targeted metabolomics analysis was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-TQ-S), and the spatial distribution of metabolites in cardiac tissue was observed using airflow-assisted desorption electrospray ionizationmass spectrometry imaging (AFADESI-MSI). Targets associated with HF and arginine metabolism were screened from databases including GeneCards and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and enrichment analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) was performed. Finally, molecular docking was conducted to verify the binding between core metabolic components and key targets, and potential TCMs were predicted based on the core pathways and targets. ResultsCompared with the sham surgery group, the levels of arginine and citrulline in the serum of model rats were significantly decreased (P<0.01), while those of proline, ornithine, creatine, creatinine and glutamate were significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Cardiac mass spectrometry imaging showed a decreased abundance of arginine in the local myocardial tissue. Bioinformatics analysis identified 24 core functional targets, such as the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and enrichment analysis indicated that these targets were significantly involved in the calcium signaling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding activities between arginine, citrulline and HTR2A, as well as between creatine, creatinine and EGFR. Based on pathway-target prediction, potential TCM interventions, such as ginseng and magnolia, were identified. ConclusionThis study revealed characteristic arginine metabolic disorder in HF, and the core targets of HF were closely associated with the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway. It provides a modern biological interpretation of the pathogenesis of HF in TCM from the perspectives of metabolites and signaling pathways, and offers valuable insights for targeted therapy of HF and the development of TCM.
5.Automatic quantitative analysis of myopia-related ocular fundus morphological parameters based on artificial intelligence
Ting LI ; Panpan XIAO ; Yonghua GU ; Fangxia ZHANG ; Xizhen GUO ; Xiaolin CHEN ; Hui YANG ; Shuang ZHANG
International Eye Science 2026;26(5):888-895
AIM:To automatically identify and quantitatively assess myopia-related fundus structural changes by combining non-mydriatic color fundus photography with an artificial intelligence(AI)-powered quantitative fundus analysis system and to further analyze the correlations between these fundus parameters and spherical equivalent(SE), axial length(AL), and age, providing the objective basis for monitoring myopia progression and supporting the formulation of personalized myopia prevention and control strategies. METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted enrolling myopic patients aged 18-50 y who underwent myopia screening from March 2023 to December 2023. Patients were stratified into three groups based on SE: the -3.00 D
6.Arginine Metabolic Disorder in Heart Failure Rats: Analysis Based on Targeted Metabolomics and Bioinformatics
Zeyu LI ; Xiaoqing WANG ; Zhengyu FANG ; Yurou ZHAO ; He XIAO ; Penghaobang LIU ; Haiming ZHANG ; Chunyan LIU ; Yanhong HU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(10):229-237
ObjectiveThis study systematically analyzed the arginine metabolic dysregulation in the rat model of heart failure (HF), providing a modern scientific basis for elucidating the pathogenesis of HF and offering new insights for the prevention and treatment of HF with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). MethodsA thoracotomy was performed to ligate the left anterior descending coronary artery of rats, which induced acute myocardial ischemia and thus led to the development of post-myocardial infarction heart failure. The rats were divided into a sham surgery group and a model group, with eight rats in each group. Serum targeted metabolomics analysis was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-TQ-S), and the spatial distribution of metabolites in cardiac tissue was observed using airflow-assisted desorption electrospray ionizationmass spectrometry imaging (AFADESI-MSI). Targets associated with HF and arginine metabolism were screened from databases including GeneCards and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and enrichment analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) was performed. Finally, molecular docking was conducted to verify the binding between core metabolic components and key targets, and potential TCMs were predicted based on the core pathways and targets. ResultsCompared with the sham surgery group, the levels of arginine and citrulline in the serum of model rats were significantly decreased (P<0.01), while those of proline, ornithine, creatine, creatinine and glutamate were significantly increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). Cardiac mass spectrometry imaging showed a decreased abundance of arginine in the local myocardial tissue. Bioinformatics analysis identified 24 core functional targets, such as the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and enrichment analysis indicated that these targets were significantly involved in the calcium signaling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding activities between arginine, citrulline and HTR2A, as well as between creatine, creatinine and EGFR. Based on pathway-target prediction, potential TCM interventions, such as ginseng and magnolia, were identified. ConclusionThis study revealed characteristic arginine metabolic disorder in HF, and the core targets of HF were closely associated with the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway. It provides a modern biological interpretation of the pathogenesis of HF in TCM from the perspectives of metabolites and signaling pathways, and offers valuable insights for targeted therapy of HF and the development of TCM.
7.Real-world study on the application and influencing factors of SGLT-2i in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Tiantian CAI ; Junlong CHEN ; Yihang ZHANG ; Siyi HE ; Jian LIU ; Ruonan XIAO ; Shangjian LUO ; Lei GAO ; Dongying ZHANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(8):1045-1049
OBJECTIVE To investigate the application and influencing factors of sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 inhibitors(SGLT-2i) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction(HFpEF) in the real world. METHODS Data from 358 patients with HFpEF who were hospitalized at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from May 2023 to May 2024 were retrospectively collected. The patients were divided into the SGLT-2i group and the non-SGLT-2i group based on whether they were prescribed SGLT-2i upon discharge. Baseline characteristics, comorbidities, and differences in drug treatment were compared between the two groups. Based on univariate analysis, multivariate Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent influencing factors of SGLT-2i use in patients with HFpEF, followed by further stratified analysis. RESULTS Among 358 HFpEF patients, the overall utilization rate of SGLT-2i was 33.5%. Combined with type 2 diabetes [OR=9.063,95%CI(4.924-16.679) ] , atrial fibrillation [OR=3.135,95%CI(1.590-6.178) ] , coronary artery heart disease [OR=1.888,95%CI(1.072-3.327) ] and the use of loop diuretics [OR=3.822, 95%CI (1.588-9.200) ] were all independent influencing factors for the use of SGLT-2i in patients with HFpEF ( P <0.05). The results of the stratified descriptive analysis were consistent with those of the multivariate analysis, showing a higher utilization rate of SGLT-2i among patients with concomitant T2DM,atrial fibrillation, coronary artery heart disease, and those receiving loop diuretics ( P <0.05); whereas the utilization rate of SGLT-2i was comparable across patients with different levels of renal function ( P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS In the real-world clinical practice, the utilization of SGLT-2i in patients with HFpEF remains suboptimal, and treatment coverage still needs to be improved. Their use of SGLT-2i is primarily influenced by the presence of type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery heart disease, and the use of loop diuretics.
8.Biological Risk Control for Infectious Experiments in Cats in Animal Biosafety Level 2 Laboratory
He ZHAO ; Tao ZHANG ; Yuzhou XIAO ; Li LI ; Xuefang AN ; Fan ZHANG
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2026;46(2):242-250
Cats, owing to their physiological and immunological similarities with humans, have become increasingly valuable as model animals in virology research, drug development, and vaccine evaluation. They are irreplaceable in studies of feline immunodeficiency virus, feline coronavirus, and other related pathogens. However, cats are temperamentally sensitive, exhibit strong stress responses, and possess well-developed nervous systems as well as sharp claws and teeth. Consequently, the biosafety risks associated with infectious experiments using cats in animal biosafety level 2 laboratory (ABSL-2) are significantly higher than those encountered with conventional rodents. Drawing on long-term ABSL-2 operational experience, this article systematically reviews the entire workflow of infectious experiments in laboratory cats — from animal selection, pre-entry preparation, reception and quarantine, housing management, to infectious experimental procedures and incident response — identifying and addressing critical risk points at each stage. For strain selection, SPF-grade shorthair cats with defined genetic backgrounds and docile temperaments are recommended; sex and age should be scientifically matched to experimental objectives. During pre-entry preparation, emphasis is placed on dual-credential personnel management, health surveillance, standardized disinfection of environments and cages, feed and water standards, and robust record-keeping. During reception and quarantine, standardized protocols are established for transport control, appearance inspection, isolation quarantine, pathogen exclusion, and positive-reinforcement training. During infectious experimentation, a "three-fixed" husbandry principle is clearly implemented: dedicated caretakers, fixed feeding/cleaning times, and fixed cage positions. Disinfectant selection, autoclaving of waste, and daily veterinary rounds are rigorously enforced. Operational risk control includes detailed measures for graded personal protection, animal anesthesia and restraint, zoned operation within biosafety cabinets, and disposal of experimental waste. Contingency plans are formulated to address animal death, escape, personnel exposure, and spills of infectious materials. This study provides a reproducible and scalable technical pathway and operational standard for conducting infectious experiments in laboratory cats in ABSL-2 laboratories, offering a reference for other facilities undertaking similar work.
9.Enhancement Effect of Porcine Inhibin Polyclonal Antibody on Superovulation in C57BL/6J Mice
He ZHAO ; Tao ZHANG ; Li LI ; Yuzhou XIAO ; Xuefang AN ; Fan ZHANG
Laboratory Animal and Comparative Medicine 2026;46(2):271-278
ObjectiveTo prepare rabbit anti-porcine inhibin polypeptide-keyhole limpet hemocyanin(KLH) conjugated polyclonal antibody and evaluate its effect on superovulation in C57BL/6J mice. MethodsNew Zealand white rabbits were immunized with a synthesized porcine inhibin polypeptide conjugated with KLH to produce anti-inhibin serum (AIS, i.e., inhibin polyclonal antibody). Female C57BL/6J mice received intraperitoneal injections of purified AIS in combination with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG), followed by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) after 48 hours to induce superovulation. Oocytes obtained from superovulation were collected and counted 15 hours post-hCG administration, and the number of 2-cell embryos was assessed 24 hours after in vitro fertilization. ResultsAIS prepared by immunizing New Zealand White rabbits with KLH-conjugated porcine inhibin polypeptide was subjected to titer determination by indirect ELISA, showing titers reaching 1∶ 512 000. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of ammonium sulfate-purified AIS revealed distinct 50 kDa and 25 kDa bands corresponding to the theoretical molecular weights of IgG antibody heavy and light chains, confirming successful production of porcine inhibin polyclonal antibody. Compared with conventional superovulation methods, AIS diluted 10-fold combined with PMSG significantly increased the number of oocytes obtained from superovulation in mice (P<0.05) by approximately 1.5-fold. ConclusionPorcine inhibin polyclonal antibody, as an improved superovulation reagent, can improve superovulation efficiency in C57BL/6J mice, and shows promising prospects for future applications.
10.Phenotypic heterogeneity and management strategies for two brothers with XIAP deficiency syndrome.
Hui HU ; Shengnan WU ; Kai CHEN ; Jingbo SHAO ; Ting ZHANG ; Yongmei XIAO
Chinese Journal of Medical Genetics 2026;43(2):123-128
OBJECTIVE:
To summarize the clinical features and management of two brothers affected with X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) deficiency.
METHODS:
This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical presentations, treatment, and follow-up of two brothers with XIAP deficiency diagnosed at Shanghai Children's Hospital in 2020, and summarized similar cases recorded in databases such as PubMed, Wanfang, Chinese Medical Association Journals, and WIP from January 2006 to November 2024. This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of our hospital (Ethics No.: 2025R128-E01).
RESULTS:
Patient 1 was the younger brother, who presented at 8 years of age with growth retardation, folliculitis, erythema nodosum, and perineal abscess. Sequencing revealed that he has carried a hemizygous c.566T>C (p.Leu189Pro) variant of the XIAP gene, which was inherited from his mother. He was allergic to infliximab treatment and underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in January 2021. During a follow-up of 3 years and 10 months post-transplantation, he showed no gastrointestinal symptoms and had a good outcome. Patient 2 was the elder brother, who presented at 10 years and 6 months of age with growth retardation, rash, and anal fistula. Genetic testing revealed the same variant. He was treated with oral azathioprine but did not have regular follow-ups. At 14-years-and-6-months of age, he had developed severe gastrointestinal infection and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, which was alleviated after treatment with antibiotics, glucocorticoids, immunoglobulin, and rituximab. He is currently being prepared for HSCT. A total of 13 publications were retrieved, which involved 64 patients from 23 families, with 23 different variants identified. The main clinical manifestations included splenomegaly (34 cases, 53.1%), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (27 cases, 42.2%), and inflammatory bowel disease or colitis (20 cases, 31.8%). There were significant phenotypic differences among patients from the same family. Thirteen patients (20.3%) underwent HSCT, with a survival rate of 61.5%.
CONCLUSION
For male children with early onset, poor treatment response, especially those with unexplained splenomegaly and IBD-like symptoms, early genetic testing is recommended. HSCT is a safe and effective treatment for XIAP deficiency. For patients with developmental delay, early onset, and severe IBD phenotype, early transplantation is recommended.
Humans
;
Male
;
X-Linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein/deficiency*
;
Child
;
Genetic Diseases, X-Linked/therapy*
;
Phenotype
;
Siblings
;
Retrospective Studies
;
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail