This study aimed to establish an analytical method capable of simultaneously quantifying the prototype components of Si-Ni-San and screening their metabolites to elucidate its tissue distribution and metabolic characteristics in an ulcerative colitis (UC) mouse model. To this end, an integrated analysis strategy based on UPLC-QqQ-MS was developed and validated, combining the targeted quantification of 12 prototype components with a pseudo-targeted metabolite screening technique based on ion pair list-triggered data-dependent acquisition. Samples were extracted with 80% methanol (100 mg/mL) and processed with internal standards. Separation was achieved on a Waters Acquity UPLC HSS PFP column using a gradient elution with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 5 mmol/L ammonium acetate containing 0.1% formic acid. Analysis was performed using an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in multiple reaction monitoring mode. Methodological validation confirmed that all parameters met the requirements for bio-sample analysis. Application of this method revealed that the content of Si-Ni-San prototype components in the colon, liver, and kidneys of UC mice was significantly higher than that in healthy mice. Furthermore, the number of phase II metabolites was markedly greater than that of phase I metabolites in all tested samples. The results demonstrate the reliability of the established method and preliminarily reveal the tissue distribution characteristics of Si-Ni-San under UC conditions and its metabolism pattern dominated by phase II conjugation, which provides a methodological basis and experimental data for further in-depth research into its effective target tissues and pharmacodynamic material basis.

Dysregulation of immune response is currently recognized as one of the important pathological factors in ulcerative colitis (UC). Based on the confirmation that the Sini San (SNS) can significantly improve the colon inflammation induced by dextran sulfate sodium sulfate (DSS) in mice, the present work systematically studied the xenobiotics in the colon and mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus of UC mice after administration of SNS by high-performance liquid chromatography-ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-IT-TOF-MS). The results showed that, in addition to the colon, some components and their metabolites in SNS could be distributed in immune tissues, and it was found that the quality of relatively low-abundance and weakly responsive components such as saikosaponin a, paeoniflorin, and glycyrrhizic acid had the characteristics of efficient transmission to the colon and lymphoid organs. These components were very likely to be the source of pharmacodynamic substances of SNS. The findings of this study lay a foundation for the study of the efficacy and molecular mechanism of the components against ulcerative colitis, and also provide a scientific basis for the rational clinical application of SNS, which is expected to promote the secondary development of its preparations.

Encephalomyocarditis virus(EMCV)is a zoonotic pathogen that causes encephalitis and myocarditis as its primary clinical manifestations.To explore effective preventive measures,this study utilized a Bac-to-Bac expression system to insert the EMCV P12A and 3C genes into the pFastBacDual shuttle vector,resulting in the generation of the recombinant baculovirus Ac-P12A-3C.This facilitated the large-scale expression and purification of EMCV virus-like particles(VLPs),which were correctly assembled into particles of approximately 30 nm in diameter,as ob-served by electron microscopy.Immunization and challenge experiments in mice demonstrated that these VLPs could effectively protect against EMCV infection,achieving a protection rate of 100％.Histopathological sections indicated that,compared to the PBS control group,the VLP immuniza-tion group exhibited significantly reduced tissue damage,along with a marked decrease in viral load within the tissues.In piglets,immunization with the VLPs elicited a robust humoral response,with neutralizing antibody titers reaching 1∶320 to 1∶640 after a second immunization,and no signifi-cant adverse reactions were observed throughout the immunization process.This study preliminarily explores the immunogenicity and safety of the VLP vaccine,laying the foundation for the development of a subunit vaccine based on EMCV VLPs and offering a new strategy for the prevention and control of encephalomyocarditis.

Objective:To explore the current status of kinesiophobia in pregnant women with pregnancy-related low back pain (PLBP) and its influencing factors, so as to inform the clinical development of intervention programs.Methods:Convenience sampling was used to select 270 pregnant women with PLBP who underwent routine obstetric examination from August to November 2023 at the Obstetrics Clinic of Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Jiangnan University. Pregnant women were surveyed using the General Information Questionnaire, Tampa Scale for Kinesio-Phobia, Falls Efficacy Scale-International, Pregnancy Exercise Self-efficacy Scale, and Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was used to explore the factors influencing kinesiophobia in pregnant women with PLBP.Results:In 270 pregnant women with PLBP, the kinesiophobia score was (47.78±8.80) and the prevalence of kinesiophobia was 89.3% (241/270). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that lower extremity edema, pain, fear of falling, exercise self-efficacy, and knowledge of low back pain were the factors influencing kinesiophobia in pregnant women with PLBP ( P<0.05) . Conclusions:Pregnant women have a high level of kinesiophobia, and there are many influencing factors. Healthcare professionals should consider a variety of factors to develop an intervention program to reduce kinesiophobia and increase activity levels in pregnant women with PLBP.

Encephalomyocarditis virus(EMCV)is a zoonotic pathogen that causes encephalitis and myocarditis as its primary clinical manifestations.To explore effective preventive measures,this study utilized a Bac-to-Bac expression system to insert the EMCV P12A and 3C genes into the pFastBacDual shuttle vector,resulting in the generation of the recombinant baculovirus Ac-P12A-3C.This facilitated the large-scale expression and purification of EMCV virus-like particles(VLPs),which were correctly assembled into particles of approximately 30 nm in diameter,as ob-served by electron microscopy.Immunization and challenge experiments in mice demonstrated that these VLPs could effectively protect against EMCV infection,achieving a protection rate of 100％.Histopathological sections indicated that,compared to the PBS control group,the VLP immuniza-tion group exhibited significantly reduced tissue damage,along with a marked decrease in viral load within the tissues.In piglets,immunization with the VLPs elicited a robust humoral response,with neutralizing antibody titers reaching 1∶320 to 1∶640 after a second immunization,and no signifi-cant adverse reactions were observed throughout the immunization process.This study preliminarily explores the immunogenicity and safety of the VLP vaccine,laying the foundation for the development of a subunit vaccine based on EMCV VLPs and offering a new strategy for the prevention and control of encephalomyocarditis.

Chimeric antigen receptor natural killer(CAR-NK)cell therapy,as an emerging cellular immunotherapy strategy,has demonstrated a broader clinical application potential compared to CAR-T cell therapy due to its high safety profile and the unique advantages of'off-the-shelf'preparation.This article thoroughly discusses the antitumor mechanisms of CAR-NK cells,elucidating their targeted recognition mechanism,inherent cytotoxic activity,and the latest advancements in optimizing specific receptors to enhance their adaptability within the tumor microenvironment.Additionally,it provides an in-depth analysis of the advantages and challenges of various sources for CAR-NK cells,including peripheral blood,umbilical cord blood,induced pluripotent stem cells(iPSCs),and NK-92 cells,while summarizing their major challenges in the tumor immune microenvironment,such as insufficient persistence,immune suppression,and antigen heterogeneity.Finally,this article presents the therapeutic potential,limitations,and future perspectives of CAR-NK therapy in treating solid tumors,with a focus on its ongoing development and clinical translation.

Objective:To explore the current status of kinesiophobia in pregnant women with pregnancy-related low back pain (PLBP) and its influencing factors, so as to inform the clinical development of intervention programs.Methods:Convenience sampling was used to select 270 pregnant women with PLBP who underwent routine obstetric examination from August to November 2023 at the Obstetrics Clinic of Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Jiangnan University. Pregnant women were surveyed using the General Information Questionnaire, Tampa Scale for Kinesio-Phobia, Falls Efficacy Scale-International, Pregnancy Exercise Self-efficacy Scale, and Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was used to explore the factors influencing kinesiophobia in pregnant women with PLBP.Results:In 270 pregnant women with PLBP, the kinesiophobia score was (47.78±8.80) and the prevalence of kinesiophobia was 89.3% (241/270). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that lower extremity edema, pain, fear of falling, exercise self-efficacy, and knowledge of low back pain were the factors influencing kinesiophobia in pregnant women with PLBP ( P<0.05) . Conclusions:Pregnant women have a high level of kinesiophobia, and there are many influencing factors. Healthcare professionals should consider a variety of factors to develop an intervention program to reduce kinesiophobia and increase activity levels in pregnant women with PLBP.

Objective:To predict the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of dementia in China from 2020 to 2040.Methods:The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), incidence number, age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), prevalence number, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and death number of dementia in China from 1990 to 2019 were collected from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) database. We used the overall change rate and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) to describe the epidemic situation of dementia and compared the trend of dementia between genders. A T-test was used to determine whether EAPC was statistically significant. Every five years, we divided the age into 17 groups to analyze the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of dementia. The prophet model predicted ASIR, ASPR, ASMR, incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia in China from 2020 to 2040.Results:The ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR of dementia showed an increasing trend from 1990 to 2019, with an average annual increase of 0.33%, 0.66%, and 0.15% ( t=10.13, 14.49 and 3.62, all P<0.05). The ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR in males increased faster annually than in females. In 2019, the number of incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia in groups aged≥80 years was the highest among all age groups (685 057 cases, 5 772 861 cases, and 217 827 cases). Prediction results of the prophet model showed that the ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR of dementia were further increased in China from 2020 to 2040, with an average annual increase of 0.55%, 0.78%, and 0.06% ( t=177.63, 161.21, and 7.91, all P<0.05). In 2040, the ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR will reach 117.72/10 5, 940.98/10 5, and 23.64/10 5, respectively. In addition, the number of incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia will show an upward trend from 2020 to 2040. In 2040, the incidence, prevalence, and death will reach 3 334 770 cases, 25 303 146 cases, and 590 138 cases, respectively. Conclusion:From 2020 to 2040, the ASIR, ASPR, ASMR, number of incident cases, number of prevalent cases, and number of deaths due to dementia in China will continue to grow.

Objective:To predict the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of dementia in China from 2020 to 2040.Methods:The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), incidence number, age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), prevalence number, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and death number of dementia in China from 1990 to 2019 were collected from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) database. We used the overall change rate and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) to describe the epidemic situation of dementia and compared the trend of dementia between genders. A T-test was used to determine whether EAPC was statistically significant. Every five years, we divided the age into 17 groups to analyze the incidence, prevalence, and mortality of dementia. The prophet model predicted ASIR, ASPR, ASMR, incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia in China from 2020 to 2040.Results:The ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR of dementia showed an increasing trend from 1990 to 2019, with an average annual increase of 0.33%, 0.66%, and 0.15% ( t=10.13, 14.49 and 3.62, all P<0.05). The ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR in males increased faster annually than in females. In 2019, the number of incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia in groups aged≥80 years was the highest among all age groups (685 057 cases, 5 772 861 cases, and 217 827 cases). Prediction results of the prophet model showed that the ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR of dementia were further increased in China from 2020 to 2040, with an average annual increase of 0.55%, 0.78%, and 0.06% ( t=177.63, 161.21, and 7.91, all P<0.05). In 2040, the ASIR, ASPR, and ASMR will reach 117.72/10 5, 940.98/10 5, and 23.64/10 5, respectively. In addition, the number of incidence, prevalence, and death from dementia will show an upward trend from 2020 to 2040. In 2040, the incidence, prevalence, and death will reach 3 334 770 cases, 25 303 146 cases, and 590 138 cases, respectively. Conclusion:From 2020 to 2040, the ASIR, ASPR, ASMR, number of incident cases, number of prevalent cases, and number of deaths due to dementia in China will continue to grow.

Objective:To observe the clinical effect of electroacupuncture combined with Qingyi Xianxiong Decoction on the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).Methods:From February 2021 to April 2022, 120 patients with ARDS caused by SAP who were admitted to the department of critical care medicine of Tianjin Nankai Hospital and whose syndrome differentiation belonged to the syndrome of knot chest were selected. They were randomly divided into pure traditional Chinese medicine group and acupuncture medicine group, with 60 cases in each group. The pure traditional Chinese medicine group was received Qingyi Xianxiong Decoction on the basis of conventional western medicine treatment, and the acupuncture medicine group was received electric acupuncture treatment on the basis of the pure traditional Chinese medicine group. The two groups continued to be treated for 7 days. The primary outcome was the ventilator-free days within 28 days after admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and the secondary outcome measures were mechanical ventilation time, the length of ICU stay, total lenth of hospital stay, time of intra-abdominal pressure recovery, scores of organ function, oxygenation index (PaO 2/FiO 2), serum inflammatory factors, blood amylase, urine amylase, etc. Results:Compared with the pure traditional Chinese medicine group, the ventilator-free days in the acupuncture medicine group within 28 days after admission to the ICU were significantly longer [day: 22.10±2.29 vs. 20.97±2.31, P < 0.05, odds ratio ( OR) = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was 1.053-1.460, P < 0.05]. The time of mechanical ventilation, the length of ICU stay, total length of hospital stay, and recovery time of intra-abdominal pressure were significantly shortened [mechanical ventilation time (days): 5.90±2.29 vs. 7.03±2.31, the length of ICU stay (days): 8.07±1.89 vs. 12.08±2.23, total length of hospital stay (days): 19.55±6.82 vs. 22.28±5.19, recovery time of intra-abdominal pressure (days): 6.05±1.81 vs. 8.45±1.76, all P < 0.05]. The Murray score and bedside index for severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP) score of the two groups after 7 days of treatment were significantly lower than those before treatment, while PaO 2/FiO 2 was significantly higher than those before treatment, and the Murray score of the acupuncture medicine group after 7 days of treatment was significantly lower than that of the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [score: 0.50 (0.33, 0.75) vs. 1.00 (1.00, 1.33), P < 0.05], PaO 2/FiO 2 was significantly higher than that in the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [mmHg (1 mmHg ≈ 0.133 kPa): 390.75±27.73 vs. 330.02±42.34, P < 0.05]. With the prolongation of treatment time, the levels of inflammatory factors such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amylase and urine amylase in both groups after treatment continued to decrease, and the levels of the inflammatory factors in the acupuncture medicine group after 7 days of treatment were significantly lower than those in the pure traditional Chinese medicine group [TNF-α (ng/L): 38.20±10.00 vs. 45.35±5.09, IL-6 (ng/L): 0.95±0.44 vs. 7.42±1.39, CRP (mg/L): 8.55±2.79 vs. 36.20±13.97, all P < 0.05]. Subgroup analysis showed that biliary system disease was a risk factor for the duration of mechanical ventilation ≥ 7 days in the treatment of ARDS with acupuncture and medicine ( OR = 2.728, 95% CI was 1.293-5.754). Conclusion:Compared with the pure traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture combined can better reduce the clinical symptoms of patients with ARDS caused by SAP, promote the recovery of patients, and reduce systemic inflammatory reaction, which is worthy of clinical promotion.