The oocyte， as the origin of life， provides half the chromosomes to the embryo and supplies the proteins， substrates， energy， and other support necessary for embryonic development. It is the decisive factor determining the embryo's developmental potential. Infertility caused by reproductive endocrine diseases targets the oocyte as the final target cell. Improving oocyte quality represents a key and difficult point in the field of modern reproductive medicine. The decline of oocyte quality is related to meiosis abnormalities， DNA damage， mitochondrial dysfunction， oxidative stress， and other mechanisms. For oocyte quality problems， there is no unified international guideline to recommend drugs. Because the drug intervention research on oocytes involves strict clinical ethical restrictions， the current relevant research only stays in the animal and in vitro experimental stage and has not yet been applied to the clinic. Traditional Chinese medicine compound formula has a multi-target and multi-pathway regulation mechanism and is widely used in clinics. More and more research began to pay attention to the potential mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine compound formulas in improving oocyte quality. Traditional Chinese medicine compound formula has the advantages of multi-target and multi-channel synergy as well as better safety， individualization， and conformity to clinical ethics in improving oocyte quality. This article systematically reviewed the research progress on traditional Chinese medicine compound formula interventions for oocyte quality， aiming to summarize existing findings and provide recommendations to improve oocyte quality and optimize the clinical diagnosis and treatment of female infertility within traditional Chinese medicine.

The oocyte， as the origin of life， provides half the chromosomes to the embryo and supplies the proteins， substrates， energy， and other support necessary for embryonic development. It is the decisive factor determining the embryo's developmental potential. Infertility caused by reproductive endocrine diseases targets the oocyte as the final target cell. Improving oocyte quality represents a key and difficult point in the field of modern reproductive medicine. The decline of oocyte quality is related to meiosis abnormalities， DNA damage， mitochondrial dysfunction， oxidative stress， and other mechanisms. For oocyte quality problems， there is no unified international guideline to recommend drugs. Because the drug intervention research on oocytes involves strict clinical ethical restrictions， the current relevant research only stays in the animal and in vitro experimental stage and has not yet been applied to the clinic. Traditional Chinese medicine compound formula has a multi-target and multi-pathway regulation mechanism and is widely used in clinics. More and more research began to pay attention to the potential mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine compound formulas in improving oocyte quality. Traditional Chinese medicine compound formula has the advantages of multi-target and multi-channel synergy as well as better safety， individualization， and conformity to clinical ethics in improving oocyte quality. This article systematically reviewed the research progress on traditional Chinese medicine compound formula interventions for oocyte quality， aiming to summarize existing findings and provide recommendations to improve oocyte quality and optimize the clinical diagnosis and treatment of female infertility within traditional Chinese medicine.

The Type III Secretion System (T3SS) serves as a pivotal virulence apparatus for numerous Gram-negative bacterial pathogens, enabling them to infect both animal and plant hosts. Functioning as a molecular syringe, the T3SS directly translocates bacterial effector proteins from the bacterial cytoplasm into the interior of eukaryotic host cells. These effectors are central weapons that precisely manipulate a wide spectrum of host cellular physiological processes, ranging from cytoskeletal dynamics to immune signaling, to establish a favorable niche for bacterial survival and proliferation. Among the diverse arsenal of T3SS effectors, the YopJ family constitutes a critical group of virulence factors. Members of this family are characterized by a conserved catalytic triad structure—a hallmark of the CE clan of cysteine proteases that has been evolutionarily repurposed to confer acetyltransferase activity. A defining and intriguing feature of these enzymes is their stringent dependence on a host-derived eukaryotic cofactor, inositol hexakisphosphate (IP₆), for allosteric activation. This requirement acts as a sophisticated molecular safeguard, ensuring enzymatic activity only within the appropriate host environment, thereby preventing detrimental effects on the bacterium itself. While seminal studies on individual members such as Yersinia’s YopJ and Salmonella’s AvrA have provided deep mechanistic insights, a systematic and integrative understanding of the structure-function relationships across the entire family remains fragmented. Key questions persist regarding how a conserved catalytic core has diverged to recognize distinct host substrates in different kingdoms of life. To address this gap, this article provides a systematic review of the YopJ family, focusing on three interconnected aspects: their structural features, their catalytic mechanism, and their divergent immunosuppressive strategies in animal versus plant hosts. By conducting a comparative analysis of the sequences and resolved three-dimensional structures of three representative members (e.g., HopZ1a, PopP2, AvrA), we elucidate regions of significant variation embedded within the conserved core catalytic architecture. These variable regions, often involving surface loops and substrate-binding interfaces, are crucial determinants of target specificity and functional specialization. The functional divergence of this effector family is most apparent when comparing their modes of action in different hosts. In animal hosts, YopJ-family effectors primarily sabotage innate immune signaling pathways. They achieve this by acetylating key serine and threonine residues within the activation loops of critical kinases in the MAPK and NF‑κB pathways. This post-translational modification blocks the phosphorylation and subsequent activation of these kinases, leading to potent suppression of inflammatory cytokine production. Conversely, in plant hosts, the strategy broadens to dismantle the two-tiered plant immune system. YopJ homologs target a more diverse set of substrates, including immune-associated receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs), microtubule networks via tubulin acetylation (which disrupts cellular trafficking and signaling), and transcription factors central to defense gene regulation. This multi-target approach effectively suppresses both Pattern-Triggered Immunity (PTI) and Effector-Triggered Immunity (ETI). In conclusion, this synthesis aims to deepen the mechanistic understanding of YopJ family-mediated pathogenesis by integrating structural biology with cellular function across host kingdoms. Elucidating the precise molecular basis for substrate selection—how conserved platforms achieve target diversity—is a major frontier. Furthermore, this knowledge provides a vital theoretical foundation for developing novel anti-virulence strategies. Targeting the conserved IP₆-binding pocket or the catalytic acetyltransferase activity itself represents a promising avenue for designing broad-spectrum inhibitors that could disarm this critical family of bacterial effectors, potentially offering new therapeutic approaches against a range of pathogenic bacteria.

Objective This study conducted molecular biological identification of the viruses carried by Culex pipiens pallens specimens collected in Shunyi District, Beijing in 2023, and observed the changes in the infection rate of the viruses carried by Cx. pipiens pallens at different collection times. Methods Cx. pipiens pallens were collected using carbon dioxide mosquito traps. The mosquito samples were ground in batches and analyzed by molecular biology technologies. The virus infection rate at different collection times was analyzed statistically. Results 17 strains of Culex pipiens pallens densovirus(CppDNV)were identified from Cx. pipiens pallens samples collected in Shunyi District, Beijing, in 2023. The nucleotide sequence analysis of the virus genome coding region showed that CppDNV was a single-stranded DNA virus with a total length of 3 335 nt, encoding 2 non-structural proteins(NS1, NS2)and 1 capsid protein(VP). The nucleotide(amino acid)sequence lengths of the three proteins were 2 376 nt(791 aa),1 092 nt(363 aa)and 1 071 nt(356 aa), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CppDNV was located in genus Brevihamaparvovirus. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in infection rates across collection times(χ2=4.429, P=0.194). Conclusions CppDNV was identified in Cx. pipiens pallens in Beijing, and it was stably maintained in this natural population.

Objective To investigate the species composition of mosquitoes and breeding conditions of larvae in the rice planting areas of Beijing, and to provide a scientific basis for mosquito control in rice fields. Methods Adult mosquitoes were collected using CO2-baited light traps, and mosquito larvae(including pupae)were sampled via the dipping method. Results A total of 4 genera and 6 species of adult mosquitoes were captured in the study area. The dominant species were Culex pipiens pallens, Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, and Anopheles sinensis. The average adult mosquito density was 5.11 specimens per trap-hour, with slightly lower density in July compared to August. For larvae and pupae,3 genera and 4 species were identified, dominated by Cx. tritaeniorhynchus, An. sinensis, and Aedes vexans. Conclusions The mosquito species composition in Beijing′s rice planting areas is diverse. Mosquito control strategies should prioritize the management of adult mosquitoes, while density control of mosquito larvae in paddy fields can be achieved through intermittent irrigation techniques.

Objective To analyze the genomic characteristics of Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila) isolated from industrial circulating cooling water in workplace. Methods A total of 20 L. pneumophila strains isolated from industrial circulating cooling water collected from eight chemical enterprises were selected as the research subjects. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on the strains, followed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST), whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism analysis, virulence factor profiling, and antibiotic resistance gene detection. Results The dominant MLST typing among the 20 L. pneumophila strains was ST2. Serogroup 1 (Lp1) strains exhibited high genetic diversity. Strains from different enterprises showed substantial genomic diversity, suggesting possible inter-enterprise dissemination. Each isolate harbored 175-295 virulence genes; among them, virulence genes were identified, and 139 genes were detected in all the 20 strains. These genes primarily included those related to the Dot/Icm type Ⅳ bacterial secretion system, flagellar synthesis and motility, and type Ⅳ pili. The number of virulence genes carried by L. pneumophila strains of different ST types differed (P<0.01), with unidentified sequence types harboring more virulence genes than other STs (P<0.01). A total of four resistance genes were predicted, including aminoglycoside phosphotransferase-encoding gene APH(9)-Ia, carbapenemase-encoding gene OXA-29, and efflux pump genes-encoding genes LpeA and LpeB, with detection rates of 100.00%, 100.00%, 10.00%, and 10.00%, respectively. These genes may confer resistance to cephalosporins, penicillins, and aminoglycosides, and all strains were multidrug resistance. Conclusion L. pneumophila isolated from industrial recirculating cooling water exhibits high genetic diversity, strong pathogenicity, and significant multidrug resistance potential.

Background: The genetic basis for hyperglycaemia in pregnancy remain unclear. This study aimed to uncover the genetic determinants of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and investigate their applications. Methods: We performed a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for GDM in Chinese women (464 cases and 1,217 controls), followed by de novo replications in an independent Chinese cohort (564 cases and 572 controls) and in silico replication in European (12,332 cases and 131,109 controls) and multi-ethnic populations (5,485 cases and 347,856 controls). A polygenic risk score (PRS) was derived based on the identified variants. Results: Using the genome-wide scan and candidate gene approaches, we identified four susceptibility loci for GDM. These included three previously reported loci for GDM and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at MTNR1B (rs7945617, odds ratio [OR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI],1.38 to 1.96]), CDKAL1 (rs7754840, OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.58), and INS-IGF2-KCNQ1 (rs2237897, OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.79), as well as a novel genome-wide significant locus near TBR1-SLC4A10 (rs117781972, OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.61 to 2.62; Pmeta=7.6×10-9), which has not been previously reported in GWAS for T2DM or glycaemic traits. Moreover, we found that women with a high PRS (top quintile) had over threefold (95% CI, 2.30 to 4.09; Pmeta=3.1×10-14) and 71% (95% CI, 1.08 to 2.71; P=0.0220) higher risk for GDM and abnormal glucose tolerance post-pregnancy, respectively, compared to other individuals. Conclusion Our results indicate that the genetic architecture of glucose metabolism exhibits both similarities and differences between the pregnant and non-pregnant states. Integrating genetic information can facilitate identification of pregnant women at a higher risk of developing GDM or later diabetes.

Objective: To explore the application and clinical efficacy of red blood cell therapeutic apheresis in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). Methods: 1) The EPP patient was hospitalized twice for "abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and brown urine". One and two sessions of red blood cell exchange/therapeutic plasma exchange (RCE/TPE) were respectively performed during the two hospitalizations. During each session, one RCE with 6-8 units of leukoreduced RBCs and 3-4 TPE procedures with 1 800-2 000 mL of frozen plasma was conducted. Biochemical parameters were monitored before and after treatment. 2) The HH patient was hospitalized for “repeatedly elevated aminotransferases”. Erythrocytapheresis was performed once, removing 550 mL of red blood cells, and venous phlebotomy was conducted once every 2 months subsequently. Blood routine and ferritin levels were assessed before and after treatment. Results: 1) During the first hospitalization, the EPP patient was relieved of the abdominal pain and brown urine after therapeutic apheresis. The total bilirubin level decreased from 141.8 μmol/L on admission to 68.6 μmol/L at discharge, with a symptom remission duration of 10 months. During the second hospitalization, the EPP patient still had recurrent abdominal pain after therapeutic apheresis. He developed psychiatric symptoms and gastrointestinal bleeding subsequently, accompanied by elevated bilirubin levels. Liver function deteriorated and the patient went into the state of the end-stage liver disease (ESLD). 2) For the HH patient, the hemoglobin level prior to erythrocytapheresis and vein phlebotomy was 150-160 g/L, with the lowest value occurring two days after erythrocytapheresis, decreasing to 107 g/L. The ferritin level before erythrocytapheresis was 2 428.08 ng/mL and it declined gradually after theraphy, with the lowest value occurring two months after erythrocytapheresis, decreasing to 1 094 ng/mL. The ferritin level was 1 114 ng/mL two months following the first vein phlebotomy, however it increased to 1 472 ng/mL two months after the second vein phlebotomy. Conclusion: RCE/TPE may alleviate protoporphyrin liver disease and help patients with bridging liver transplantation before EPP developments to ESLD. For HH patients with significantly elevated ferritin levels, erythrocytapheresis reduces serum ferritin more quickly and maintains its level longer relative to phlebotomy.

Objective: To explore the application and clinical efficacy of red blood cell therapeutic apheresis in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). Methods: 1) The EPP patient was hospitalized twice for "abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and brown urine". One and two sessions of red blood cell exchange/therapeutic plasma exchange (RCE/TPE) were respectively performed during the two hospitalizations. During each session, one RCE with 6-8 units of leukoreduced RBCs and 3-4 TPE procedures with 1 800-2 000 mL of frozen plasma was conducted. Biochemical parameters were monitored before and after treatment. 2) The HH patient was hospitalized for “repeatedly elevated aminotransferases”. Erythrocytapheresis was performed once, removing 550 mL of red blood cells, and venous phlebotomy was conducted once every 2 months subsequently. Blood routine and ferritin levels were assessed before and after treatment. Results: 1) During the first hospitalization, the EPP patient was relieved of the abdominal pain and brown urine after therapeutic apheresis. The total bilirubin level decreased from 141.8 μmol/L on admission to 68.6 μmol/L at discharge, with a symptom remission duration of 10 months. During the second hospitalization, the EPP patient still had recurrent abdominal pain after therapeutic apheresis. He developed psychiatric symptoms and gastrointestinal bleeding subsequently, accompanied by elevated bilirubin levels. Liver function deteriorated and the patient went into the state of the end-stage liver disease (ESLD). 2) For the HH patient, the hemoglobin level prior to erythrocytapheresis and vein phlebotomy was 150-160 g/L, with the lowest value occurring two days after erythrocytapheresis, decreasing to 107 g/L. The ferritin level before erythrocytapheresis was 2 428.08 ng/mL and it declined gradually after theraphy, with the lowest value occurring two months after erythrocytapheresis, decreasing to 1 094 ng/mL. The ferritin level was 1 114 ng/mL two months following the first vein phlebotomy, however it increased to 1 472 ng/mL two months after the second vein phlebotomy. Conclusion: RCE/TPE may alleviate protoporphyrin liver disease and help patients with bridging liver transplantation before EPP developments to ESLD. For HH patients with significantly elevated ferritin levels, erythrocytapheresis reduces serum ferritin more quickly and maintains its level longer relative to phlebotomy.

INTRODUCTION: This review aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for an enhanced primary series (third dose) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination in people with rheumatic diseases (PRDs) in the local and regional context. METHODS: Literature reviews were performed regarding the necessity, efficacy, safety and strategies for enhanced primary series COVID-19 vaccination in PRDs. Recommendations were developed based on evidence according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Evidence was synthesised by eight working group members, and the consensus was achieved by a Delphi method with nine members of an expert task force panel. RESULTS: Two graded recommendations and one ungraded position statement were developed. PRDs have impaired immunogenicity from the COVID-19 vaccine and are at an increased risk of postvaccine breakthrough severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and poor clinical outcomes, compared to the general population. We strongly recommend that PRDs on immunomodulatory drugs be offered a third dose of the messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine as part of an enhanced primary series, after the standard two-dose regimen. We conditionally recommend that the third dose of mRNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 be given at least 4 weeks after the second dose or as soon as possible thereafter. There is insufficient data to inform whether the third mRNA vaccine should be homologous or heterologous in PRDs. CONCLUSION These recommendations that were developed through evidence synthesis and formal consensus process provide guidance for an enhanced primary series COVID-19 vaccination in PRDs.
Humans ; COVID-19/prevention & control* ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage* ; Rheumatic Diseases/immunology* ; Singapore ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vaccination/methods* ; Delphi Technique ; Immunization, Secondary