1.Development and Application of the Evidence Quality Rating Scale for Ancient Classical Prescriptions in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Juwen ZHANG ; Jianping LIU ; Xiangfei SU ; Wei WEI ; Xiaolan SU ; Xue FENG ; Fanya YU ; Xudong ZHANG ; Junhong YU ; Wei CHEN
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2025;66(8):804-810
ObjectiveTo develop the Evidence Grading Scale for Ancient classical prescriptions in Traditional Chinese medicine, assess its reliability and validity, and apply it in practice to provide multi-source evidence for clinical practice guidelines development. MethodsLiterature retrieval was conducted to extract and screen existing evaluation dimensions, then the initial items were summarized using thematic analysis. Experts in the clinical medicine, medical history and literature participated in the Delphi questionnaire survey to evaluate and refine the items. An expert consensus meeting was conducted to finalize the included items, refine the method for items evaluation and evidence grading. The evidence quality rating scale for ancient classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions was then established and tested for reliability and validity. ResultsThrough literature review, extraction, screening and summarization, a total of 3 dimensions and 12 initial items were formed. Questionnaires were sent to 69 experts to evaluate the initial items, with a questionnaire response rate of 100% and an expert authority coefficient of 0.92. All 12 items were retained for they had importance scores above 4. The Evidence Grading Scale on Ancient classical prescriptions in Traditional Chinese medicine includes 3 dimensions with 12 items. The 3 dimensions includes ancient evidence, inheritance status, and modern application. Each dimension contains 4 items, and each item has a full score of 5 points. The evidence was rated as high-level, moderate-level, and low-level according to the final scores. The content validity index (CVI) of the 12 items was >0.9, the average CVI of the scale was 0.98, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.90. ConclusionThe Evidence Grading Scale on Ancient classical prescriptions in Traditional Chinese medicine has good reliability and validity, which is practical for use in the development of TCM clinical guidelines and can better support clinical decision-making.
2.Predicting Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Brightness Change Curves Derived From Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound Images
Ying-Ying CHEN ; Shang-Lin JIANG ; Liang-Hui HUANG ; Ya-Guang ZENG ; Xue-Hua WANG ; Wei ZHENG
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2025;52(8):2163-2172
ObjectivePrimary liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a significant global health issue, ranking as the sixth most diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Accurate and early diagnosis of HCC is crucial for effective treatment, as HCC and non-HCC malignancies like intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) exhibit different prognoses and treatment responses. Traditional diagnostic methods, including liver biopsy and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), face limitations in applicability and objectivity. The primary objective of this study was to develop an advanced, light-weighted classification network capable of distinguishing HCC from other non-HCC malignancies by leveraging the automatic analysis of brightness changes in CEUS images. The ultimate goal was to create a user-friendly and cost-efficient computer-aided diagnostic tool that could assist radiologists in making more accurate and efficient clinical decisions. MethodsThis retrospective study encompassed a total of 161 patients, comprising 131 diagnosed with HCC and 30 with non-HCC malignancies. To achieve accurate tumor detection, the YOLOX network was employed to identify the region of interest (ROI) on both B-mode ultrasound and CEUS images. A custom-developed algorithm was then utilized to extract brightness change curves from the tumor and adjacent liver parenchyma regions within the CEUS images. These curves provided critical data for the subsequent analysis and classification process. To analyze the extracted brightness change curves and classify the malignancies, we developed and compared several models. These included one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D-ResNet, 1D-ConvNeXt, and 1D-CNN), as well as traditional machine-learning methods such as support vector machine (SVM), ensemble learning (EL), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), and decision tree (DT). The diagnostic performance of each method in distinguishing HCC from non-HCC malignancies was rigorously evaluated using four key metrics: area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC), accuracy (ACC), sensitivity (SE), and specificity (SP). ResultsThe evaluation of the machine-learning methods revealed AUC values of 0.70 for SVM, 0.56 for ensemble learning, 0.63 for KNN, and 0.72 for the decision tree. These results indicated moderate to fair performance in classifying the malignancies based on the brightness change curves. In contrast, the deep learning models demonstrated significantly higher AUCs, with 1D-ResNet achieving an AUC of 0.72, 1D-ConvNeXt reaching 0.82, and 1D-CNN obtaining the highest AUC of 0.84. Moreover, under the five-fold cross-validation scheme, the 1D-CNN model outperformed other models in both accuracy and specificity. Specifically, it achieved accuracy improvements of 3.8% to 10.0% and specificity enhancements of 6.6% to 43.3% over competing approaches. The superior performance of the 1D-CNN model highlighted its potential as a powerful tool for accurate classification. ConclusionThe 1D-CNN model proved to be the most effective in differentiating HCC from non-HCC malignancies, surpassing both traditional machine-learning methods and other deep learning models. This study successfully developed a user-friendly and cost-efficient computer-aided diagnostic solution that would significantly enhances radiologists’ diagnostic capabilities. By improving the accuracy and efficiency of clinical decision-making, this tool has the potential to positively impact patient care and outcomes. Future work may focus on further refining the model and exploring its integration with multimodal ultrasound data to maximize its accuracy and applicability.
3.Preliminary Construction of Comprehensive Evaluation System for TCM Clinical Practice Guidelines Based on Bibliometric Analysis and Core Element Extraction
Xue CHEN ; Gezhi ZHANG ; Danping ZHENG ; Fangqi LIU ; An LI ; Junjie JIANG ; Nannan SHI ; Wei YANG ; Xinghua XIANG ; Mengyu LIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2025;31(24):209-219
ObjectiveTo construct a comprehensive evaluation indicator system for clinical practice guidelines of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is scientific, systematic, and reflects the characteristics of TCM. MethodsA systematic search was conducted in Chinese and English databases, including CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, to include literature on domestic and international guideline evaluation tools and TCM-related research. Document analysis and CiteSpace were utilized for keyword co-occurrence and clustering analysis. ResultsA total of 65 relevant studies were included, from which seven core thematic domains were identified. Based on the research objectives, a two-step construction strategy was adopted: first, an external evaluation framework was established by referencing international tools to cover methodological rigor and procedural standardization; second, an internal evaluation framework was developed to reflect the distinctive features of TCM clinical practice, including syndrome differentiation and efficacy feedback. Through expert consensus, the indicator system was refined, resulting in a dual-layered structure comprising 8 primary indicators, 22 secondary indicators, and 62 evaluation criteria. ConclusionThe comprehensive evaluation system for TCM clinical practice guidelines, based on bibliometric analysis and core element extraction, integrates both theoretical integrity and practical applicability. This study provides a preliminary research foundation for further optimization, validation, and development of a refined comprehensive evaluation system.
4.Safety of teriflunomide in Chinese adult patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis: A phase IV, 24-week multicenter study.
Chao QUAN ; Hongyu ZHOU ; Huan YANG ; Zheng JIAO ; Meini ZHANG ; Baorong ZHANG ; Guojun TAN ; Bitao BU ; Tao JIN ; Chunyang LI ; Qun XUE ; Huiqing DONG ; Fudong SHI ; Xinyue QIN ; Xinghu ZHANG ; Feng GAO ; Hua ZHANG ; Jiawei WANG ; Xueqiang HU ; Yueting CHEN ; Jue LIU ; Wei QIU
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(4):452-458
BACKGROUND:
Disease-modifying therapies have been approved for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). The present study aims to examine the safety of teriflunomide in Chinese patients with RMS.
METHODS:
This non-randomized, multi-center, 24-week, prospective study enrolled RMS patients with variant (c.421C>A) or wild type ABCG2 who received once-daily oral teriflunomide 14 mg. The primary endpoint was the relationship between ABCG2 polymorphisms and teriflunomide exposure over 24 weeks. Safety was assessed over the 24-week treatment with teriflunomide.
RESULTS:
Eighty-two patients were assigned to variant ( n = 42) and wild type groups ( n = 40), respectively. Geometric mean and geometric standard deviation (SD) of pre-dose concentration (variant, 54.9 [38.0] μg/mL; wild type, 49.1 [32.0] μg/mL) and area under plasma concentration-time curve over a dosing interval (AUC tau ) (variant, 1731.3 [769.0] μg∙h/mL; wild type, 1564.5 [1053.0] μg∙h/mL) values at steady state were approximately similar between the two groups. Safety profile was similar and well tolerated across variant and wild type groups in terms of rates of treatment emergent adverse events (TEAE), treatment-related TEAE, grade ≥3 TEAE, and serious adverse events (AEs). No new specific safety concerns or deaths were reported in the study.
CONCLUSION:
ABCG2 polymorphisms did not affect the steady-state exposure of teriflunomide, suggesting a similar efficacy and safety profile between variant and wild type RMS patients.
REGISTRATION
NCT04410965, https://clinicaltrials.gov .
Humans
;
Crotonates/adverse effects*
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Toluidines/adverse effects*
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Nitriles
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Hydroxybutyrates
;
Female
;
Male
;
Adult
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ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2/genetics*
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Middle Aged
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Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/genetics*
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Prospective Studies
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Young Adult
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Neoplasm Proteins/genetics*
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East Asian People
5.P4HA1 mediates YAP hydroxylation and accelerates collagen synthesis in temozolomide-resistant glioblastoma.
Xueru LI ; Gangfeng YU ; Xiao ZHONG ; Jiacheng ZHONG ; Xiangyu CHEN ; Qinglong CHEN ; Jinjiang XUE ; Xi YANG ; Xinchun ZHANG ; Yao LING ; Yun XIU ; Yaqi DENG ; Hongda LI ; Wei MO ; Yong ZHU ; Ting ZHANG ; Liangjun QIAO ; Song CHEN ; Fanghui LU
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(16):1991-2005
BACKGROUND:
Temozolomide (TMZ) resistance is a significant challenge in treating glioblastoma (GBM). Collagen remodeling has been shown to be a critical factor for therapy resistance in other cancers. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of TMZ chemoresistance by GBM cells reprogramming collagens.
METHODS:
Key extracellular matrix components, including collagens, were examined in paired primary and recurrent GBM samples as well as in TMZ-treated spontaneous and grafted GBM murine models. Human GBM cell lines (U251, TS667) and mouse primary GBM cells were used for in vitro studies. RNA-sequencing analysis, chromatin immunoprecipitation, immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry, and co-immunoprecipitation assays were conducted to explore the mechanisms involved in collagen accumulation. A series of in vitro and in vivo experiments were designed to assess the role of the collagen regulators prolyl 4-hydroxylase subunit alpha 1 (P4HA1) and yes-associated protein (YAP) in sensitizing GBM cells to TMZ.
RESULTS:
This study revealed that TMZ exposure significantly elevated collagen type I (COL I) expression in both GBM patients and murine models. Collagen accumulation sustained GBM cell survival under TMZ-induced stress, contributing to enhanced TMZ resistance. Mechanistically, P4HA1 directly binded to and hydroxylated YAP, preventing ubiquitination-mediated YAP degradation. Stabilized YAP robustly drove collagen type I alpha 1 ( COL1A1) transcription, leading to increased collagen deposition. Disruption of the P4HA1-YAP axis effectively reduced COL I deposition, sensitized GBM cells to TMZ, and significantly improved mouse survival.
CONCLUSION
P4HA1 maintained YAP-mediated COL1A1 transcription, leading to collagen accumulation and promoting chemoresistance in GBM.
Temozolomide
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Humans
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Glioblastoma/drug therapy*
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Animals
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Mice
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Cell Line, Tumor
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Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics*
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YAP-Signaling Proteins
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Hydroxylation
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Dacarbazine/pharmacology*
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Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/metabolism*
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Transcription Factors/metabolism*
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Collagen/biosynthesis*
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Collagen Type I/metabolism*
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Prolyl Hydroxylases/metabolism*
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Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating/therapeutic use*
6.Novel autosomal dominant syndromic hearing loss caused by COL4A2 -related basement membrane dysfunction of cochlear capillaries and microcirculation disturbance.
Jinyuan YANG ; Ying MA ; Xue GAO ; Shiwei QIU ; Xiaoge LI ; Weihao ZHAO ; Yijin CHEN ; Guojie DONG ; Rongfeng LIN ; Gege WEI ; Huiyi NIE ; Haifeng FENG ; Xiaoning GU ; Bo GAO ; Pu DAI ; Yongyi YUAN
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(15):1888-1890
7.Adherence to blood glucose self-monitoring guidance and glycemic control in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus initiating basal insulin: A mobile health-based prospective cohort study.
Lixin GUO ; Dalong ZHU ; Kaining CHEN ; Yaoming XUE ; Chao ZHOU ; Ping LIU ; Zhaohui HU ; Pei GU ; Wei ZHANG ; Huijie DONG ; Wanjun XIE ; Liqing GUAN
Chinese Medical Journal 2025;138(21):2832-2834
8.Research progress on variety breeding of root- and rhizome-derived traditional Chinese medicine.
Yan CHEN ; Miao-Yin DONG ; Zhan-Feng CAO ; Xue-Zhou LIU ; Meng-Fei LI ; Jian-He WEI
China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica 2025;50(2):363-383
Germplasm degeneration occurs during the long-term cultivation of root-and rhizome-derived traditional Chinese medicine(RR-TCM), which seriously restricts the high-quality development of their industry. Therefore, it is urgent to solve the problem of germplasm degeneration through variety breeding. In this paper, based on previously published research articles, monographs, and news reports, the research progresses on the number and origins, breeding methods, and selection of new varieties of RR-TCM listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(Edition 2020) were summarized and analyzed. The results show that there are 169 kinds of RR-TCM listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(Edition 2020), originated from 223 origins with three breeding methods(i.e., seed propagation, vegetative reproduction, and tissue culture), and there are 215 species derived from seed propagation, 177 species derived from vegetative reproduction, and 164 species derived from tissue culture. To date, there are 62 origins breeding new varieties through conventional breeding, cross breeding, mutation breeding, ploidy breeding, or modern biotechnology breeding methods, including 57 origins breeding 145 new varieties through conventional breeding, 10 origins breeding 43 new varieties through mutation breeding, and seven origins breeding 12 new varieties through cross breeding method. They are used mainly to improve yield, disease resistance, and active ingredient content, but only a few new varieties have been widely used. This review will provide useful references in variety breeding, quality breeding, and standardized planting of RR-TCM.
Plant Breeding/methods*
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Plant Roots/growth & development*
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Rhizome/growth & development*
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Drugs, Chinese Herbal
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Plants, Medicinal/classification*
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Medicine, Chinese Traditional
9.Tanreqing Capsules protect lung and gut of mice infected with influenza virus via "lung-gut axis".
Nai-Fan DUAN ; Yuan-Yuan YU ; Yu-Rong HE ; Feng CHEN ; Lin-Qiong ZHOU ; Ya-Lan LI ; Shi-Qi SUN ; Yan XUE ; Xing ZHANG ; Gui-Hua XU ; Yue-Juan ZHENG ; Wei ZHANG
China Journal of Chinese Materia Medica 2025;50(8):2270-2281
This study aims to explore the mechanism of lung and gut protection by Tanreqing Capsules on the mice infected with influenza virus based on "the lung-gut axis". A total of 110 C57BL/6J mice were randomized into control group, model group, oseltamivir group, and low-and high-dose Tanreqing Capsules groups. Ten mice in each group underwent body weight protection experiments, and the remaining 12 mice underwent experiments for mechanism exploration. Mice were infected with influenza virus A/Puerto Rico/08/1934(PR8) via nasal inhalation for the modeling. The lung tissue was collected on day 3 after gavage, and the lung tissue, colon tissue, and feces were collected on day 7 after gavage for subsequent testing. The results showed that Tanreqing Capsules alleviated the body weight reduction and increased the survival rate caused by PR8 infection. Compared with model group, Tanreqing Capsules can alleviate the lung injury by reducing the lung index, alleviating inflammation and edema in the lung tissue, down-regulating viral gene expression at the late stage of infection, reducing the percentage of neutrophils, and increasing the percentage of T cells. Tanreqing Capsules relieved the gut injury by restoring the colon length, increasing intestinal lumen mucin secretion, alleviating intestinal inflammation, and reducing goblet cell destruction. The gut microbiota analysis showed that Tanreqing Capsules increased species diversity compared with model group. At the phylum level, Tanreqing Capsules significantly increased the abundance of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, while reducing the abundance of Bacteroidota and Proteobacteria to maintain gut microbiota balance. At the genus level, Tanreqing Capsules significantly increased the abundance of unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae while reducing the abundance of Bacteroides, Eubacterium, and Phocaeicola to maintain gut microbiota balance. In conclusion, Tanreqing Capsules can alleviate mouse lung and gut injury caused by influenza virus infection and restore the balance of gut microbiota. Treating influenza from the lung and gut can provide new ideas for clinical practice.
Animals
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Drugs, Chinese Herbal/administration & dosage*
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Mice
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Lung/metabolism*
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Mice, Inbred C57BL
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Capsules
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Orthomyxoviridae Infections/virology*
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Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects*
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Male
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Humans
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Female
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Influenza A virus/physiology*
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Influenza, Human/virology*
10.Research progress in the mechanism and treatment of post traumatic platelet dysfunction.
Kai LI ; Peixin WANG ; Kun WEI ; Jia LIU ; Xue BAI ; Tiantao ZHANG ; Chen ZHANG ; Shihong XU
Chinese Journal of Cellular and Molecular Immunology 2025;41(11):1041-1046
Trauma is the main cause of death and disability. Patients with severe trauma have hemorrhagic shock, traumatic coagulopathy and other diseases, which increase the risk of death. Platelets are important in the hemostatic response, but their function is rapidly dysregulated in trauma patients, leading to traumatic coagulopathy, blood loss, and early death. In addition to their role in hemostasis, platelets act as coordinators of the initial immune response, which can lead to immunothrombosis, organ dysfunction, and increased late mortality. At present, the treatment of post traumatic platelet dysfunction is mainly based on early hemostasis, and late prevention and treatment of thrombosis and organ dysfunction. In this review, the characteristics, underlying mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment strategies of platelet dysfunction in different periods are summarized, to provide ideas for studying the mechanism of platelet dysfunction after trauma and the treatment strategy for trauma patients.
Humans
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Wounds and Injuries/therapy*
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Blood Platelets/metabolism*
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Blood Platelet Disorders/etiology*
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Animals
;
Hemostasis

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