Objective To investigate the distribution characteristics of Oncomelania hupensis snails in Yunnan Province fol-lowing interruption of schistosomiasis transmission, so as to provide the evidence for assessing the risk of schistosomiasis transmission and scientifically formulating the schistosomiasis surveillance program. Methods According to the requirements of the National Schistosomiasis Surveillance Scheme (2020 Edition), O. hupensis snail surveillance data were collected from 18 schistosomiasis-endemic counties (cities, districts) in Yunnan Province from 2020 to 2024, including area of snail survey, area of snail habitats, area of re-emerging snail habitats, number of frames surveyed, number of frames with O. hupensis snails, number of O. hupensis snails captured, and number of living snails, and the occurrence of frames with snails and mean density of living snails were calculated. Changes in snail status over the 5-year period from 2020 to 2024 and the differences in snail distributions specified by epidemic intensity, environmental type, and vegetation type were analyzed. Results The areas of snail survey increased from 1 727.96 hm² in 2020 to 3 894.45 hm² in 2024 (peak) across 18 schistosomiasis-endemic counties (cities, districts) in Yunnan Province during the period from 2020 through 2024. The areas of snail habitats increased from 70.36 hm² in 2020 to a peak in 2023 (172.04 hm²), followed by a reduction to 132.36 hm² in 2024, and the areas of re-emerging snail habitats increased from 42.71 hm² in 2020 to a peak in 2022 (78.43 hm²), followed by a reduction to 40.21 hm² in 2024. The occurrence of frames with snails and mean density of living snails increased from 1.24% (3 025/244 404) and (0.033 2 ± 0.038 7) snails/0.1 m² in 2020 to peaks at 2.03% (6 231/307 563) and (0.066 9 ± 0.068 4) snails/0.1 m² in 2023, followed by reductions to 1.04% (5 829/559 941) and (0.032 6 ± 0.057 7) snails/0.1 m² in 2024, respectively. There was a significant difference in the occurrence of frames with snails over the 5-year study period (χ² = 1 962.95, P < 0.05), and the occurrence of frames with snails reduced by 48.71% in 2024 relative to in 2023 (χ² = 1 411.05, P < 0.005); however, there was no significant difference in the mean density of living snails over the 5 years (H = 5.310, P > 0.05). There were significant differences in the occurrence of frames with snails (χ² = 481.27, P < 0.05) and mean density of living snails (H = 6.872, P < 0.05) in schistosomiasis-endemic areas with different epidemic intensities. The occurrence of frames with snails (χ² = 25.32 and 38.70, both P values < 0.017) and mean density of living snails (Z = 28.55 and 49.96, both P values < 0.017) were higher in schistosomiasis transmission-interrupted and eliminated areas with snails than in schistosomiasis-eliminated areas without snails, and the occurrence of frames with snails (χ² = 453.54, P < 0.017) and mean density of living snails (Z = −56.97, P < 0.017) were higher in schistosomiasis-eliminated areas with snails than in schistosomiasis transmission-interrupted areas with snails. O. hupensis snails were mainly distributed in paddy fields, dry farmlands and ditches; however, the occurrence of frames with snails (13.40%, 424/3 164) and mean density of living snails [(0.252 8 ± 0.158 7) snails/0.1 m²] were higher in ponds/weirs than in other types of environments (both P values < 0.05). Rice, dry farmland crops and weeds were main vegetations in which O. hupensis snails were distributed, and the occurrence of frames with snails (2.29%, 7 111/310 140) and mean density of living snails [(0.072 3 ± 0.018 9) snails/0.1 m²] were higher in weeds than in other types of environments (both P values < 0.05). Conclusions O. hupensis snails have been effectively controlled in Yunnan Province following implementation of integrated schistosomiasis control measures; however, there are still risk factors for schistosomiasis transmission, including reduced attention to schistosomiasis control and snail re-emergence. Improved control efforts and surveillance system construction and timely identification of risk factors of snail status and timely management are recommended to ensure the achievement of the target of schistosomiasis elimination as scheduled.

ObjectiveThis study aims to construct a reconstituted high-density lipoprotein (rHDL) delivery system loaded with kinsenoside (KD@rHDL), and to systematically evaluate its function in enhancing the phagocytosis of amyloid β-protein (Aβ) by microglia and improving the inflammatory state of microglia, as well as to preliminarily explore its potential application value in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). MethodsKD@rHDL was prepared by the film hydration method combined with probe sonication and co-incubation. Its morphology was observed by transmission electron microscopy, and the particle size and Zeta potential were measured by dynamic light scattering. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The affinity between KD@rHDL and Aβ was analyzed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to assess its feasibility as a medium for Aβ clearance. At the cellular level, after treating mouse microglial cells (BV-2 cells) with KD@rHDL and adding fluorescently labeled Aβ, the phagocytic efficiency of microglia for Aβ was detected by confocal microscopy. Meanwhile, the CCK-8 method was used to evaluate the effect of KD@rHDL on cell viability to determine its safety. The trans-barrier transport ability of KD@rHDL was detected by Transwell assay. The expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and downstream inflammatory factor IL-1β in LPS-induced microglia were detected by Western blot to evaluate the regulatory effect of KD@rHDL on the inflammatory state of cells. ResultsCharacterization results showed that the successfully prepared KD@rHDL presented a typical discoid structure under transmission electron microscopy, with a uniform particle size distribution, an average particle size of approximately (14.4±0.24) nm, and a suitable negative Zeta potential, demonstrating good colloidal stability. The drug content determination results indicated that the encapsulation efficiency of KD@rHDL for kinsenoside was (42.24±1.30)%, and the drug loading was (6.03±0.19)%, indicating a good drug loading capacity. The CCK-8 assay results showed that in the set concentration range, the survival rates of BV2 and HT22 cells in the KD@rHDL treatment group were all above 90%, with no significant difference from the control group, indicating good cell safety of the formulation. The results of the Aβ phagocytosis experiment indicated that, compared with the Aβ oligomers (Aβo) group alone, the fluorescence signal intensity within microglia in the KD@rHDL treatment group was significantly enhanced, and a large amount of fluorescence-labeled Aβ was observed to accumulate intracellularly under a fluorescence microscope. The SPR assay results showed that rHDL had a strong affinity for Aβ, with an affinity constant reaching the nanomolar level. Transwell assay results indicated that KD@rHDL could effectively cross the bEnd.3 cell monolayer barrier and be taken up by BV2 and HT22 cells. Western blot assay results showed that high-dose KD@rHDL treatment could significantly reduce the expression level of NLRP3 protein in LPS-induced microglia and simultaneously down-regulate the maturation and secretion of IL-1β, indicating that KD@rHDL can effectively inhibit the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and improve the neuroinflammatory state mediated by microglia. ConclusionThis study successfully constructed a reconstituted high-density lipoprotein delivery system loaded with kinsenoside (KD@rHDL). This nano-delivery system not only significantly enhances the phagocytic clearance ability of microglia towards Aβ, but also effectively inhibits the NLRP3/IL-1β-mediated inflammatory pathway, improving the inflammatory state of microglia. The above results indicate that KD@rHDL has a synergistic effect in promoting Aβ clearance and alleviating neuroinflammation, demonstrating potential therapeutic value for AD and providing new ideas and experimental basis for the development of subsequent AD treatment strategies.

Objective To gain insights into the biological characteristics of different populations of Culex tritaeniorhynchus within and around the Yellow Sea wetland from the perspective of the occurrence of resistance, we investigated the levels of resistance to deltamethrin and kdr gene mutation in the wetland and its peripheral areas. Methods Specimens were collected from Cx. tritaeniorhynchus populations at two monitoring sites in the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area, and also from two populations in Yancheng City and the Liuhe District of Nanjing, and the resistance of these mosquitoes to deltamethrin was determined using the CDC biotest bottle method. For each concentration of deltamethrin assessed, a random subset of exposed specimens was selected for amplification of the kdr gene fragment, followed by Sanger sequencing to identify and analyze resistance-associated mutations. Results The LC50 levels of deltamethrin among mosquitoes from the four populations in Luhe, Yancheng, the Rare Bird National Nature Reserve and the Tiaozi Ni Wetland Scenic Area were 2.048 5, 7.798 2, 3.473 3, and 17.695 5 mg/mL, respectively, with corresponding concentrations of deltamethrin ranging from 0.005 to 5.000,0.050 to 50.000,0.050 to 25.000 and 0.050 to 50.000 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the ranges of the KT50 values were 11.76-107.43, 67.05-216.30,29.77-107.43 and 28.40-329.51 min; the 1-h knockdown rates were 34.58%-99.15%, 9.52%-43.80%, 55.09%-73.01%, and 10.09%-68.07%; and the 24-h mortality rates were 12.15%-67.52%,9.52%-79.56%,13.17%-82.21%, and 11.01%-78.99%, respectively. With respect to kdr gene mutation, we assayed a total of 63,70,59, and 57 mosquitoes for the four populations, for which we detected L1014F mutation frequencies of 14.29%, 35.00%, 20.34%, and 31.58%, respectively, with a majority of these mutations being heterozygous for resistance. In addition, five adult mosquitoes were identified has having synonymous mutations at site 1011[i. e. , AAT(asparagine)mutation to AAC(asparagine)]. Conclusions Our findings revealed the clear resistance of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus to deltamethrin in the Yancheng region of the Yellow Sea wetland, and the resistance phenotype and kdr frequency of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment were comparable to those of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in the wetland environment, thereby indicating that the resistance of different populations of Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was homogeneous under the pressure of different insecticide selection within and around the wetland. However, the underlying mechanisms need to be further studied.

ObjectiveTo analyze the composition of respiratory virus pathogen spectrum and epidemiological characteristics among adult influenza-like illness (ILI) cases in Putuo District of Shanghai from 2015 to 2024, to summarize the epidemic patterns of respiratory viruses across different time periods and populations, and to provide scientific evidence for the prevention and control of adult respiratory virus infections in Putuo District of Shanghai. MethodsSurveillance data of 2 273 adult ILI cases from sentinel hospitals under the comprehensive surveillance system for acute respiratory infections in Putuo District of Shanghai from 2015 to 2024 were retrospectively collected. Descriptive epidemiological methods were adopted to analyze the temporal and population distribution characteristics of respiratory viruses, including influenza virus (IFV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus (ADV), and human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The mixed infection status among different age groups was compared, and the distribution of influenza virus subtypes was described. SPSS 22.0 and WPS Office software were used for statistical analyses. ResultsThe overall detection rate of respiratory viruses in 2 273 adult ILI cases was 43.51%. The detection rate in females (45.48%) was significantly higher than that in males (41.25%), with statistical significance (χ²=4.113, P=0.043). Individuals aged 60 years old and above had the highest detection rate (47.41%) (χ²=8.430, P=0.014). The detection rates in winter (50.41%) and summer (48.42%) were higher than those in other seasons (χ²=47.028, P<0.001). The overall viral detection rate decreased after 2020 (χ²=208.411, P<0.001). Detection rates of various viruses varied by year, with IFV and ADV showing high rates from 2015 to 2019 (all P<0.001), while human coronavirus (HCoV) and rhinovirus/enterovirus (HRV/EV) exhibited higher rates from 2020 to 2022 (all P<0.001). Co-infection with IFV and HCoV was the most common, followed by co-infection with IFV and ADV, together accounting for 50.00% of all mixed infections. During the surveillance period, the detection rate of IFV was significantly higher than that of other respiratory viruses. Influenza B/Victoria lineage predominated in 2021, followed by successive predominance of influenza A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and the co-circulation of the two subtypes from 2022 to 2023. Influenza A(H1N1) re-emerged as the predominant subtype in the first half of 2024. ConclusionFrom 2015 to 2024, respiratory virus infections in adults prevailed in winter and summer, and people aged 60 years old and above were the key high-risk population. The detection rates of respiratory viruses declined after 2020. IFV was the predominant pathogen detected, and different influenza virus subtypes circulated alternately each year.

Objective To investigate the prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infections in wild murines in schistosomiasisendemic areas of Yunnan Province, so as to provide the evidence for improving the schistosomiasis surveillance and early warning capability and implementing precise interventions in the province. Methods A total of 56 natural villages were sampled from 14 schistosomiasis-endemic counties (cities, districts) in Yunnan Province as surveillance sites from 2024 to 2025. Wild murines were captured using traps at night and characterized for species. Liver samples were collected from wild murines, S. japonicum eggs and miracidia were simultaneously detected using liver tissue compression microscopy, liver tissue homogenate microscopy, and liver tissue homogenate hatching. In addition, stool samples were collected from wild murine rectum, with S. japonicum eggs detected using a modified Kato-Katz thick smear technique and S. japonicum miracidia detected using the hatching test with nylon gauzes. Results A total of 15 577 valid murine traps were recovered, and 891 wild murines belonging to 16 species were captured, with a capture rate of 5.72%(891/15 577). The captured wild murines were predominantly districted in paddy fields, dry lands, ditches, ponds and marshlands, with Apodemus chevrieri, Rattus norvegicus, Crocidura attenuata, R. rattus sladeni, R. flavipectus, and Eothenomys miletus as dominant species. No S. japonicum eggs or miradicia were in laboratory; however, other parasites were identified in 25 wild murines. The prevalence rates of Schistosoma sinensis, Capillaria hepatica and Hymenolepis nana were 2.24% (20/891), 0.90% (8/891) and 0.56% (5/891), and the prevalence of S. sinensis and C. hepatica co-infection was 0.90% (8/891), respectively. Conclusions S. sinensis, C. hepatica and H. nana are predominant parasite species in wild murines in schistosomiasis-endemic areas of Yunan Province. No S. japonicum infection was detected during the study period; however, there is still a risk of wild murines as a potential source of infection for schistosomiasis transmission. Continuous intensified surveillance of S. japonicum infections in wild murines is a critical programme in schistosomiasis surveillance and early warning in Yunnan Province.

Oligodendrocyte lineage cells, including oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and oligodendrocytes (OLs), are essential in establishing and maintaining brain circuits. Autophagy is a conserved process that keeps the quality of organelles and proteostasis. The role of autophagy in oligodendrocyte lineage cells remains unclear. The present study shows that autophagy is required to maintain the number of OPCs/OLs and myelin integrity during brain aging. Inactivation of autophagy in oligodendrocyte lineage cells increases the number of OPCs/OLs in the developing brain while exaggerating the loss of OPCs/OLs with brain aging. Inactivation of autophagy in oligodendrocyte lineage cells impairs the turnover of myelin basic protein (MBP). It causes MBP to accumulate in the cytoplasm as multimeric aggregates and fails to be incorporated into integral myelin, which is associated with attenuated endocytic recycling. Inactivation of autophagy in oligodendrocyte lineage cells impairs myelin integrity and causes demyelination. Thus, this study shows autophagy is required to maintain myelin quality during aging by controlling the turnover of myelin components.
Animals ; Autophagy/physiology* ; Oligodendroglia/metabolism* ; Myelin Sheath/physiology* ; Aging/pathology* ; Myelin Basic Protein/metabolism* ; Cell Lineage/physiology* ; Mice ; Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Brain/cytology* ; Cells, Cultured ; Cell Count

Neuropathic pain, often featuring allodynia, imposes significant physical and psychological burdens on patients, with limited treatments due to unclear central mechanisms. Addressing this challenge remains a crucial unsolved issue in pain medicine. Our previous study, using protein kinase C gamma (PKCγ)-tdTomato mice, highlights the spinal feedforward inhibitory circuit involving PKCγ neurons in gating neuropathic allodynia. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing this circuit necessitate further elucidation. We used diverse transgenic mice and advanced techniques to uncover the regulatory role of the descending serotonin (5-HT) facilitation system on spinal PKCγ neurons. Our findings revealed that 5-HT neurons from the rostral ventromedial medulla hyperpolarize spinal inhibitory interneurons via 5-HT_2C receptors, disinhibiting the feedforward inhibitory circuit involving PKCγ neurons and exacerbating allodynia. Inhibiting spinal 5-HT_2C receptors restored the feedforward inhibitory circuit, effectively preventing neuropathic allodynia. These insights offer promising therapeutic targets for neuropathic allodynia management, emphasizing the potential of spinal 5-HT_2C receptors as a novel avenue for intervention.
Animals ; Neuralgia/physiopathology* ; Protein Kinase C/metabolism* ; Receptor, Serotonin, 5-HT2C/metabolism* ; Hyperalgesia/physiopathology* ; Mice, Transgenic ; Mice ; Spinal Cord/metabolism* ; Serotonin/metabolism* ; Male ; Neurons/metabolism* ; Mice, Inbred C57BL

Schizophrenia (SZ) stands as a severe psychiatric disorder. This study applied diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data in conjunction with graph neural networks to distinguish SZ patients from normal controls (NCs) and showcases the superior performance of a graph neural network integrating combined fractional anisotropy and fiber number brain network features, achieving an accuracy of 73.79% in distinguishing SZ patients from NCs. Beyond mere discrimination, our study delved deeper into the advantages of utilizing white matter brain network features for identifying SZ patients through interpretable model analysis and gene expression analysis. These analyses uncovered intricate interrelationships between brain imaging markers and genetic biomarkers, providing novel insights into the neuropathological basis of SZ. In summary, our findings underscore the potential of graph neural networks applied to multimodal DTI data for enhancing SZ detection through an integrated analysis of neuroimaging and genetic features.
Humans ; Schizophrenia/pathology* ; Diffusion Tensor Imaging/methods* ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; Brain/metabolism* ; Young Adult ; Middle Aged ; White Matter/pathology* ; Gene Expression ; Nerve Net/diagnostic imaging* ; Graph Neural Networks