1.Long-chain Fatty Acids in Atherosclerosis: Focus on Metabolites and Mechanisms
Jin-Qian PAN ; Wang LIU ; Zhao-Bing LI ; Shi-Yang LIU ; Qin-Yi ZHOU
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics 2026;53(7):1826-1848
Atherosclerosis (AS) remains the core pathological basis underlying the high incidence and high rates of mortality and disability associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. Its essence is not merely lipid deposition, but rather an immune-mediated disease of the vascular wall characterized by an interplay of lipid metabolism disorders and chronic inflammation, with damage to vascular endothelial cells serving as the initiating event. As the disease progresses, it involves complex synergistic interactions among various cellular components, including endothelial cells, macrophages, and inflammatory cells, ultimately leading to plaque formation, instability, and even fatal thrombotic events. In recent years, the central driving role of lipid metabolic reprogramming in the progression of AS has garnered increasing attention from the scientific community. Among the vast array of lipid molecules, long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) have become a primary focus of research due to their exceptional physiological functions. Traditional views have primarily emphasized the basic physiological functions of LCFAs: serving as highly efficient energy substrates through mitochondrial β-oxidation and acting as key structural components of cellular phospholipid membranes. However, emerging evidence clearly indicates that the functions of LCFAs extend far beyond those of mere metabolic fuel. They also act as potent bioactive signaling molecules, playing an indispensable multidimensional role in the pathogenesis of AS. Equally noteworthy and representing a paradigm shift in cardiovascular research is the emerging theory of the “gut-heart axis”. This theoretical framework views the human gut microbiota—comprising trillions of microorganisms—as a critical and metabolically active “bioreactor”. A wealth of clinical and multi-cohort epidemiological studies have conclusively demonstrated that imbalances in the composition and function of the gut microbiota are highly correlated with the clinical risk and severity of AS. Within this axis, the gut microbiota serves as the primary processing hub for dietary lipids. It actively participates in the digestion and biochemical remodeling of LCFAs, thereby altering their saturation and chemical structure and generating a wide variety of gut microbial metabolites. The effects of these gut-derived lipid metabolites extend far beyond the local intestinal microenvironment. Upon entering the bloodstream, these circulating microbiota metabolites act as endocrine signals. Given the extreme complexity of the underlying mechanisms, a comprehensive elucidation of the synergistic and bidirectional interactions between LCFAs and the gut microbiota in vascular pathology is particularly urgent. Therefore, this article aims to provide a systematic review of the multidimensional regulatory mechanisms of LCFAs and their associated gut microbiota metabolites in the onset, progression, and clinical manifestations of AS. By thoroughly exploring the interaction patterns within the “LCFAs-gut microbiota-AS” triad, this review seeks to fundamentally expand our understanding of the pathogenesis of CVDs. More importantly, translating these mechanistic insights into clinical practice holds tremendous promise. We hope to provide a solid theoretical foundation for the future development of novel AS prevention and treatment strategies based on non-traditional approaches. These include precision nutritional interventions (i.e., dietary lipid intake plans tailored to an individual’s unique microbiome profile) and targeted microbiome modulation therapies (such as next-generation probiotics, prebiotics, or specific metabolite supplements). Targeting the gut as a “reactor” to treat vascular wall lesions represents a promising direction for future cardiovascular medicine.
2.Clinical pharmacist’s participation in long-term pharmaceutical care for a patient with disseminated Cryptococcus gattii infection
Chuhong WANG ; Fang ZHAO ; Meifang CHEN ; Yue ZHOU ; Rongrong FAN ; Yanguo LIU ; Yi LIU ; Lin HUANG ; Xiaohong ZHANG
China Pharmacy 2026;37(16):2171-2175
OBJECTIVE To provide guidance for pharmaceutical care in patients with severe Cryptococcus gattii infections.METHODS Clinical pharmacists participated in the diagnosis and treatment of a male patient with disseminated Cryptococcus gattii infection (involving the lungs and central nervous system). Given the patient’s poor response to initial therapy, the clinical pharmacists, based on antimicrobial susceptibility test results, recommended voriconazole as an alternative azole. In response to refractory hypokalemia caused by liposomal amphotericin B, the clinical pharmacists assisted the physician in developing an intensive potassium replacement regimen. Regarding the interaction between voriconazole and nifedipine, the clinical pharmacists proactively identified the risk and intensified monitoring of the patient’s blood pressure. In response to the onset of hepatitis C during treatment, the clinical pharmacists thoroughly weighed the priority of infection treatment and recommended temporarily postponing antiviral therapy for hepatitis C. For the individualized use of voriconazole, the clinical pharmacists repeatedly performed therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Regarding the patient’s poor lesion resolution, the clinical pharmacists participated in multidisciplinary team discussions to clarify the indications for surgery.RESULTS The physician adopted the clinical pharmacists’ recommendations. Following pharmacological treatment and surgical intervention, the patient’s condition stabilized, and he was discharged while still on medication.CONCLUSIONS For severe Cryptococcus gattii infections, clinical pharmacists should focus on pathogen characteristics, strengthen adverse reaction management, pay close attention to drug interactions, conduct TDM, and actively participate in multidisciplinary team collaboration to ensure the safety and efficacy of patient treatment.
3.Neoadjuvant Sintilimab Combined with Gemcitabine and Cisplatin for Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Patients Followed by Selective Bladder Sparing Surgery: A Phase 2 Trial
Zhou TONG ; Guanghou FU ; Feng ZHOU ; Xiaoyan LIU ; Xing XUE ; Hangyu ZHANG ; Yimin WANG ; Xudong ZHU ; Yang GAO ; Lulu LIU ; Xuanwen BAO ; Yi ZHENG ; Weijia FANG ; Peng ZHAO ; Baiye JIN
Cancer Research and Treatment 2026;58(2):581-590
Purpose:
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of gemcitabine and cisplatin (GP) regimen in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor sintilimab as neoadjuvant therapy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients and the feasibility of the following selective bladder sparing surgery.
Materials and Methods:
Patients with histopathologically confirmed urothelial carcinoma without distant metastases (T2-4a, N ≤ 1, M0, American Joint Committee of Cancer 8th) and with adequate organ function will be enrolled. The therapeutic regimen was sintilimab 200 mg once on day 8, gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 and cisplatin 35 mg/m2 once on days 1 and 8, every 21 days for four cycles. The primary endpoint was pathologic complete response (pCR, pT0N0) rate. The secondary end points were ypT < 2 rate, R0 resection rate, event-free survival, and safety.
Results:
From May 4, 2020, to May 20, 2023, 55 patients were enrolled. Forty-six patients were evaluated for efficacy. Among the 42 patients who underwent surgery, 16 patients (38.0%) achieved pCR. Thirty-three patients (78.6%) achieved pT < 2. With a median follow-up of 15.7 months, the 1-year event-free survival was 91.3%. Notwithstanding the poor pathological baseline characteristic of a high T3-T4a proportion (39.1%), a promising bladder preservation (including 22 patients transurethral resection of bladder tumor, 5 patients partial cystectomy, and 4 surveillances) rate was achieved (67.4%). The most common grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events was neutropenia (n=15, 27.3%), which was related to chemotherapy. There were no grade 3 immune-related adverse events.
Conclusion
Neoadjuvant GP plus sintilimab is a promising regimen for MIBC patients, with relatively high pT < 2 rate and triggering the emerging roles for the multi-disciplinary team decision-making for bladder sparing surgery.
4.Association between daytime outdoor physical activity and common oral diseases among primary school students
ZHAO Binbin, ZHOU Yi, LU Xiuzhen, SUN Ying, CHEN Xin
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(5):719-722
Objective:
To explore the association between daytime outdoor physical activity (OPA) and oral health indicators among primary school students, aiming to provide evidence for developing oral health intervention strategies based on natural exposure.
Methods:
In October 2023, based on the "Tianchang Children s Light Exposure and Growth Development Cohort", 799 second and third grades children were recruited from two primary schools in Tianchang, Chuzhou City, Anhui Province. Physical activity intensity and light exposure were objectively monitored for 24 hours over 5 consecutive days using triaxial accelerometers synchronized with portable illuminance meters. Standardized oral examinations were performed to record dental caries, gingivitis, and malocclusion. Demographics, lifestyle variables, and household socioeconomic data were collected via questionnaires. Multiple linear regression (for the number of carious teeth) and Logistic regression (for gingivitis risk) were used to analyze the relationship between daytime outdoor moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and oral health outcomes.
Results:
The average daytime outdoor MVPA was (0.76±0.35)h, with (0.95±0.40)h on weekdays and (0.49±0.47)h on weekends. The detection rates for dental caries, gingivitis, and malocclusion were 31.0%, 4.6%, and 59.7%, respectively. Compared with children with good oral health, the duration of outdoor MVPA on school days was reduced in children with caries or gingivitis ( Z =-11.4, -5.01, both P <0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed that after adjusting for factors such as gender, age, body mass index, oral hygiene behaviors, an increase in daytime outdoor MVPA duration was associated with a decrease in the number of dental caries ( β=-0.64, 95%CI =-0.93 to -0.35) and a reduced risk of gingivitis ( OR= 0.58 , 95%CI =0.34-0.98) in primary school students (both P <0.05). The association was primarily observed on school days ( β=-0.72, 95%CI = -1.07 to -0.37; OR=0.42, 95%CI =0.21-0.85) (both P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Daytime outdoor MVPA on weekdays is significantly associated with a lower number of carious teeth and a reduced risk of gingivitis in primary school students. Increasing daytime outdoor activities on weekdays may serve as a promising and potential strategy for promoting children s oral health.
5.Research progress on health effects of triclosan and triclocarban
Jiaqi LIU ; Min HUANG ; Zichen YANG ; Yi WANG ; Ke ZHAO ; Yuhua ZHOU ; Yuanping WANG ; Na WANG ; Hexing WANG ; Qingwu JIANG
Shanghai Journal of Preventive Medicine 2026;38(3):251-258
Triclosan (TCS) and triclocarban (TCC) are widely used synthetic broad-spectrum antibacterial agents that can enter the human body through the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and other pathways. More and more studies have found that exposure to TCS and TCC can affect human health, but currently, review reports on the health effects of human exposure to TCS and TCC are limited. Therefore, this study reviewed population studies on the relationship between TCS and TCC exposure and health effects by searching the PubMed database, summarized the associated health outcomes, and elucidated the biological mechanisms. A total of 56 studies were retrieved, among which cross-sectional studies (25 studies, 44.64%) and cohort studies (25 studies, 44.64%) accounted for a relatively large proportion, while case-control studies (6 studies, 10.72%) were relatively few. Studies on TCS exposure (48 studies, 85.71%) were far more prevalent than those on TCC exposure (2 studies, 3.57%). The remaining 6 studies involved both TCS and TCC exposure. The research results revealed that TCS exposure was associated with male and female abnormal reproductive functions, fetal growth restriction, abnormal behavior development in children, obesity, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and immune-related diseases. Although the results of different studies show significant differences, they have indicated that exposure to TCS is a potential risk factor for these health problems. Due to the limited number of studies, the evidence for the relationship between TCC exposure and most of the aforementioned health effects is insufficient. Population studies and in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that exposure to TCS and TCC can interfere with the microbial homeostasis, the endocrine system, oxidative stress and immune function of the body, which are potential mechanisms causing adverse health effects. In the future, large-scale prospective cohort studies, as well as in vivo and in vitro studies, are still needed to further clarify the associations between TCS and TCC exposure and health effects, and to deeply explore its mechanism of action. These efforts will provide references for clarifying the human health hazards of TCS and TCC exposure and formulating targeted prevention and control strategies.
6.Investigating Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism of Zhengqi Prescription on Cancer-related Fatigue by UPLC-MS and Network Pharmacology
Jianghan YU ; Yiying ZHAO ; Mingsai CHENG ; Yi LU ; Bingxia ZHOU ; Mingxia WU ; Ziying WANG ; Liang CAO ; Yingbo YANG ; Zhenzhong WANG
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(22):180-188
ObjectiveTo characterize the systemically absorbed components of Zhengqi prescription (ZQP) and investigate its therapeutic effects and mechanisms against cancer-related fatigue (CRF) through an integrated approach of network pharmacology and animal experiments. MethodsThe systemically absorbed components of ZQP were identified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS). Network pharmacology was employed to predict the potential targets and signaling pathways involved in the anti-CRF effects of ZQP. A mouse model of paclitaxel-induced CRF, mimicking breast cancer-related fatigue, was established. Mice were administered different doses of ZQP extract. The therapeutic efficacy was evaluated based on fatigue-related indicators, behavioral test results, and energy metabolism parameters. Western blot analysis was conducted to validate the regulation of core signaling pathways. ResultsA total of 48 systemically absorbed components were identified. Network pharmacology analysis revealed 124 intersecting targets (including Akt1) and implicated signaling pathways such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase (PI3K/Akt). Pharmacodynamic studies with the established CRF model demonstrated that ZQP alleviated fatigue symptoms. Specifically, ZQP-treated mice exhibited increased exhaustive swimming time (P<0.05), prolonged struggling time in the tail suspension test, and enhanced movement duration and distance in the open field test (P<0.05, P<0.01). Furthermore, ZQP treatment decreased serum lactate and blood urea nitrogen levels (P<0.05, P<0.01), increased liver and muscle glycogen content (P<0.05, P<0.01), and upregulated the expression of phosphorylated (p)-Akt and p-PI3K in the gastrocnemius muscle (P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionZQP exerts significant therapeutic effects on paclitaxel-induced breast cancer-related fatigue by regulating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, this study provides a preliminary foundation for subsequent quality control of the formula and further investigation into its mechanism against CRF.
7.The epidemiologic characteristics of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in Minhang and Jinshan districts, Shanghai
Dun-jia WANG ; Xiao-lu HE ; Tian-tian ZHANG ; Tang WANG ; Zhao-peng DONG ; Can-lei SONG ; Shi-ji TAO ; Zheng-xing HOU ; Yu-ping CHENG ; Yi-bin ZHOU
Acta Parasitologica et Medica Entomologica Sinica 2026;33(3):173-179
Objective The aim of the study is to analyze the incidence patterns and epidemiological characteristics of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in the Minhang and Jinshan districts of Shanghai, and provide evidence-based information for optimizing prevention and control measures. Methods We collected information from epidemic reports and epidemiological investigation forms for cases of parasitic and vector-borne diseases from 2005 to 2024 in Shanghai's Minhang and Jinshan districts. Descriptive epidemiological method were adopted to conduct a comparative analysis of incidence trends, epidemic characteristics, and infection sources. Results A total of 229 cases in 7 categories were reported between 2005 and 2024, with an average annual incidence rate of 0.36/100 000. The average annual incidence rate in Minhang District was significantly higher than that in Jinshan District. The most prevalent diseases were malaria and dengue fever, followed by Japanese encephalitis. Monthly case reports were available, predominantly from June to October, with a peak in July-August. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two districts in case distribution during June-October (P<0.001), whereas no significant difference was found for July-August (P=0.331). The majority of cases were young men (111/229,48.47%), aged 20-39 years. Migrant workers/farmers constituted the largest occupational group (55/229, 24.02%). Registered residents of other provinces and cities (147/229,64.19%), and the main source of infection was overseas importation (112/229,48.91%). There were no statistically significant differences in gender and household-registration composition between the two districts (P>0.05). Significant differences existed in age, occupation, and source of infection (P<0.05). The imported diseases were malaria and dengue fever, with Africa and Southeast Asia being the primary source locations. Malaria was the predominant disease imported from other provinces and cities, with cases having been imported from abroad since 2012. Local infections were mainly Japanese encephalitis, followed by malaria (with the last local case reported in 2010). Cases between 2005 and 2009 were predominantly imported from other provinces and cities. The proportion of cases imported from abroad increased sharply after 2010, particularly in Minhang District. Local infections sometimes arise in Jinshan District, with Japanese encephalitis serving as the primary type. Conclusions Incidence rates of parasitic and vector-borne diseases in Minhang and Jinshan districts have generally remained low. To further reduce this disease burden, it will be necessary to strengthen joint measures for prevention and control, eliminate the environmental risk factors of vector organisms, enhance monitoring and precise control of the environment and inbound personnel to prevent the occurrence and transmission of parasitic and vector-borne diseases.
8.Chemical constituents from Euphorbia humifusa and their in vitro anti-hepatoma activity
Si-fan YAO ; Wu-hui SUN ; Yi ZHANG ; Wen AI ; Xue-jing LI ; Bi-qing ZHAO ; Xiao-jiang ZHOU
Chinese Traditional Patent Medicine 2025;47(7):2243-2249
AIM To study the chemical constituents from Euphorbia humifusa Willd.and their in vitro anti-hepatoma activity.METHODS Silica gel,D101 macroporous adsorption resin and semi-preparative RP-HPLC were used for isolated and purified,then the structures of obtained compounds were identified by physicochemical properties and spectral data.The anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity was determined by MTT mothod.RESULTS Eighteen compounds were isolated and identified as 22-O-angeloyl-R1-barrigenol(1),dimethyl 3,3'-[oxybis(4,1-phenylene)](2E,2'E)-diacrylate(2),N-(3-methoxy-1,3-dioxopropyl)-D-tryptophan methyl ester(3),N-acetyltryptophan methyl ester(4),N-(methoxycarbonyl)-tryptophan methyl ester(5),(3β,5α,17β)-4,4,8,14-tetramethyl-18-norandrostane-3,17-diol(6),3β,18,19β-trihydroxylupane(7),pregnenolone(8),3-hydroxy-5,6-epoxy-7-megastigmen-9-one(9),dehydrovomifoliol(10),loliolide(11),2,2'-oxybis(1,4-di-tert-butylbenzene)(12),dibutyl phthalate(13),4-methoxycinnamic acid(14),3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid(15),methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate(16),kaempferol(17),quercetin(18).The IC50 values of compounds 1,7 and 8 on HepG2 cells were(17.27±0.92),(19.11±2.14)and(7.53±1.09)μmol/L,respectively.CONCLUSION Compounds 1-16 are first isolated from this plant.Compounds 1,7 and 8 have anti-hepatoma activity.
9.Construction and operation of the operation system for clinical research achievements transformation in a public hospital
Bingwei WANG ; Wenping ZHOU ; Ruoyan HAN ; Liang MA ; Changpeng LIU ; Ying ZHAO ; Yan ZHENG ; Wengang YI ; Yanyan LIU
Chinese Journal of Hospital Administration 2025;41(5):372-377
A scientific and efficient comprehensive operation system for the transformation of clinical research achievements is an important guarantee to fully release the capability of public hospitals of the achievement transformation. A public hospital, focusing on the bottleneck problems faced in the process of transforming scientific and technological achievements, began to explore the construction of a comprehensive operation system for the transformation of clinical research achievements and implemented it throughout the hospital from October 2023. By improving the organizational structure and setting up full-time management positions; formulating supporting policies and perfecting the incentive mechanism; drawing a systematic portrait and creating a standard pathway; expanding the transformation platform and promoting coordinated development; innovating management services and strengthening digital empowerment; and highlighting publicity and education to enhance the capability of transformation, the hospital has effectively promoted the transformation of clinical research achievements. This practice can provide a reference for other hospitals to improve the management of clinical research achievements transformation and promote high-quality hospital development.
10.Consistency of trichoscopic fields in androgenetic alopecia patients by using scalp medical pigmentation ink as visual marker
Yi ZHOU ; Xifei QIAN ; Chongxiang FAN ; Lu ZHU ; Jun ZHAO ; Zhongxin SUN ; Jufang ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2025;41(5):500-506
Objective:To investigate the consistency of trichoscopic fields in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients by using scalp medical pigmentation (SMP) ink as visual marker, as well as the safety and durability.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with AGA who visited the Medical Cosmetology Center, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Westlake University School of Medicine from April to August 2024. Trichoscopic images were captured immediately and three months after using SMP ink for visual marker. Each patient’s two trichoscopic images were imported into Photoshop CC 2019 software for processing to obtain the location information of the marker, the distance between the marker center and the image center, and pigments areas. Consistency of markers during repeated trichoscopy was evaluated by comparing distances between pigment center and image center. The difference in distance between the two time points (3-month distance minus immediate-post-marking distance) was defined as "distance difference". Patients were divided into the same-operator group and different-operator group based on whether the two trichoscopy examinations were performed by the same operator. The impact of operator changes on the consistency of markers during repeated trichoscopy was assessed by comparing the "distance difference" between the two groups. Additionally, patients were categorized into single-point, double-point, and triple-point groups according to the number of markers. The influence of marker quantity on consistency of the markers was evaluated by comparing the "distance difference" among these three groups. Pigment spread was assessed by comparing pigment actural area in repeated trichoscopic images. Adverse reactions and ink fading within three months were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 27.0 software.The normal distribution measurement data was expressed as Mean ± SD, and the non-normal distribution measurement data was expressed as M ( Q1, Q3). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was applied for comparison of the distance between the marker center and the image center in the preceding and subsequent trichoscopic images. Mann-Whitney U test was applied for comparison between the same-operator group and the different-operator group, and the Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was used for comparison among the single-point, double-point, and triple-point groups. The paired sample t-test was used for comparison of the pigment actural area during repeated measurements. P<0.05 indicated statistically significant differences. Results:A total of 22 male AGA patients (aged 24-43 years) were included, with 46 pigment points marked (8 single-point, 4 double-point, 10 triple-point). Same-operator and different-operator groups comprised of 13 and 9 patients, respectively. No significant difference was found in distances between marker center and image center immediately vs. 3 months post-marking [0.91 (0.62, 1.53) mm vs. 0.83 (0.62, 1.22) mm, Z=-0.83, P=0.408]. Comparisons of the "distance difference" between the same-operator and different-operator groups, and among the single-point, double-point, and triple-point groups, showed no statistically significant differences (all P> 0.05). Pigment areas increased by (0.11±0.12) mm 2 at 3 months ( t=-6.47, P<0.001). All pigments exhibited fading within 3 months but remained identifiable without touch-up. Adverse reactions were minimal: mild puncture-site bleeding was observed, with no pigment-related allergies, foreign-body reactions, or significant scarring. Conclusion:Single-point SMP pigment enables reliable and consistent visualization of trichoscopic measurement points in AGA patients, unaffected by operator changes. The method demonstrates clinical convenience, flexibility, high safety, and long-term durability.


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