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.

In the context of burgeoning economic trade, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of ships travelling between domestic and international ports. Inbound and outbound cargo ships, cruise liners, ferries, and other types of vessels have emerged as critical vehicles for the dispersal of vector organisms and the spread of infectious disease agents. Public health concerns associated with these vessels represent a significant threat to human welfare. In this paper, we comprehensively review the hazards posed by vector organisms on ships, the latest advances in prevention and control strategies, and proposes appropriate countermeasures. The aim is to provide effective guidance for the prevention and control of public health security issues caused by ship-borne vector organisms.

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.

Objective:To evaluate the sample preparation proficiency and storage proficiency of 11 clinical biobanks in Beijing through simulated experiments, and to establish an assessment method for the quality comparability of biological samples.Methods:An exploratory research design was adopted. In November 2023, artificial composite serum quality control materials containing six recombinant human protein markers—recombinant human alanine aminotransferase (rhALT), recombinant human aspartate aminotransferase (rhAST), recombinant human creatine kinase (rhCK), recombinant human creatine kinase-MB (rhCK-MB), recombinant human B-type natriuretic peptide (rhBNP), and recombinant human troponin I (rhTNI)—were distributed to 11 clinical biobanks in Beijing City. Sample preparation and storage followed the standardized operating procedures. Proficiency differences were assessed through statistical analysis.Results:Three-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed all six protein markers showed a declining trend over storage time in ultra-low-temperature environments ( F values 11.68-4 179.66, all P<0.01). However, neither long-term/temporary refrigerator types ( F values 0.01-1.23, all P>0.05)nor placement locations within refrigerators significantly affected the stability of these six proteins ( F valus 0.03-1.47, all P>0.05). The biases in detection results for rhALT, rhAST, rhTNI, and rhBNP at different storage time points were within the allowable bias limits for each item, supporting their use as markers for protein stability in biobank samples. All 11 institutions passed the storage proficiency assessment. In the preparation proficiency assessment, deviations were observed in post-preparation sample results, with a notably high out-of-control rate for rhCK (36.36%). Conclusion:Sample preparation proficiency can serve as a quality control metric for clinical biobanks. Future external quality assessment systems for biobanks should focus on sample preparation rather than storage processes.

Objective To evaluate the effects of transcatheter aortic valve replacement(TAVR)on left ventricular reverse remodeling(LVRR)and outcomes in patients with mixed aortic valve disease(MAVD)and predominant aortic stenosis(AS).Methods Patients undergoing TAVR at our center between January 2020 and December 2022 were enrolled consecutively.Propensity score matching(PSM)(1∶1 ratio)was used to reduce selection bias.Transthoracic echocardiography(TTE)was used to monitor left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)and other structural parameters over time.The study outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death and rehospitalization due to cardiovascular causes.Linear mixed-effects models and logistic regression were utilized for comparing echocardiographic changes across groups and identifying independent risk factors for no-LVRR,respectively.Results After PSM,126 patients were included.MAVD group exhibited larger structural parameters(left ventricular end-systolic/end-diastolic diameter and volume,left ventricular mass index)and a lower left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)(all P＜0.05).However,more pronounced improvements in left ventricular structure and hemodynamics were observed during follow-up.Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the left ventricular mass index(LVMI)was an independent predictor of left ventricular reverse remodeling(LVRR)after TAVR,whereas persistent moderate or greater mitral regurgitation(MR)and paravalvular leak(PVL)significantly reduced the incidence of LVRR.During a median follow-up period of 23 months,a total of 31 endpoint events occurred,and there was no statistically significant difference in long-term prognosis between the two groups(Log-rank P=0.330).Conclusions Compared to patients in the AS group,those in the MAVD group exhibited more severe left ventricular remodeling before TAVR.However,more significant LVRR was observed during postoperative follow-up.Additionally,the long-term prognosis was comparable between the two groups.

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(OPSCC)is a malignant tumor originating from the squamous epithelium of the oro-pharyngeal mucosa,accounting for more than 90％of oropharyngeal malignancies.In recent years,human papillomavirus(HPV)infec-tion has become one of the primary etiological factors of oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma.The incidence of HPV-associated oropharyn-geal squamous carcinoma has been rising annually,with a noticeable trend toward younger populations,posing a significant threat to hu-man health.Due to the distinct biological behavior and clinical characteristics of HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma com-pared to its non-HPV-related counterpart,the diagnostic and treatment strategies for oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma have undergone substantial changes.Prevention and screening for oropharyngeal squamous carcinoma are of critical importance.The diagnostic and treat-ment process involves multi-disciplinary collaboration,including oral and maxillofacial surgery,otolaryngology,head and neck surgery,oncology,radiology and pathology.Based on evidence from clinical practice,a comprehensive,integrated diagnostic and therapeutic ap-proach has been established,centered around the concept of"prevention,screening,diagnosis,treatment,and rehabilitation",covering the entire patient lifecycle and providing a valuable reference for clinical practice.

Aim To investigate the regulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of 4-methoxybenzyl alcohol(4-MBA),an active ingredient of Gastrodia elata,on hepatic cholesterol metabolism.Methods Acute hy-perlipidemia mouse models were established via egg yolk emulsion induction,and hyperlipidemia rat models were constructed using a high-fat diet.Serum and he-patic total cholesterol(TC),triglycerides(TG),low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),and high-den-sity lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C)levels were quan-tified via enzymatic assays.Hepatic histopathological changes were evaluated through hematoxylin-eosin(HE)and Oil Red O staining.Interactions between 4-MBA and key cholesterol metabolism targets were sim-ulated using molecular docking.mRNA and protein ex-pression levels of LDL receptor(LDLR),proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9(PCSK9),liver X receptor α(LXRα),peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ(PPARγ),ATP-binding cassette transporter G1(ABCG1),and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase(CYP7A1)were assessed using quantitative polymer-ase chain reaction(qPCR)and immunohistochemis-try.Results In acute hyperlipidemic mice,4-MBA administration significantly reduced serum TG and LDL-C levels while elevating HDL-C(P＜0.05).Hy-perlipidemic rats exhibited decreased serum TG and LDL-C,increased HDL-C(P＜0.01),reduced hepatic LDL-C(P＜0.01),and elevated hepatic HDL-C(P＜0.01).Although TC levels showed a downward trend,the difference lacked statistical significance.He-patic lipid accumulation and steatosis were alleviated.Upregulated mRNA and protein expression of LDLR,PPARγ,LXRα,and ABCG1(P＜0.01),alongside downregulated PCSK9(P＜0.05),were observed.Conclusion 4-MBA modulates cholesterol metabolism primarily via the LDLR/PCSK9 pathway to enhance cholesterol uptake and the PPARγ-LXRα-CYP7A1/ABCA1 axis to promote cholesterol utilization and ef-flux.

Aim To explore the mechanism of action of Guizhi Jia Gegen decoction(GGD)in treating pneu-monia-enteritis induced by H1N1 influenza virus infec-tion in a mouse model,using network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques,followed by in vivo verification.Methods A pneumonia-enteritis mouse model was established,and the intervention effects of GGD on the model mice were evaluated using indica-tors such as body weight,rectal temperature,lung in-dex,colon length,H1N1 M gene expression,relative mRNA expression levels of inflammatory cytokines,and pathological sections of the lung and intestine.The targets of the blood-absorbed components of GGD were identified using the Swiss Target Prediction platform,and the disease targets were retrieved from the Gene-Cards platform.The intersecting targets were analyzed through PPI network analysis using the STRING data-base to identify core targets.GO analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed using the Metascape database.RT-qPCR was employed to vali-date the core targets and pathways.Molecular docking was conducted using AutoDock Tools software to verify the interactions between blood-absorbed components and key targets.Results GGD demonstrated signifi-cant therapeutic effects on the pneumonia-enteritis mouse model.The results of network pharmacology in-dicated that the therapeutic effects of GGD were strong-ly associated with targets such as TNF,ALB,PTGS2,MMP9,EGFR,ESR1,SRC,HSP90AA1,PPARG and MMP2.RT-qPCR results indicated that GGD could intervene in pneumonia-enteritis by regulating the targets TNF,ALB,EGFR and the related targets of the NF-κB pathway.Molecular docking results re-vealed that blood-absorbed components such as puerar-in and liquiritin could stably bind to TNF,ALB and EGFR.Conclusion Components such as puerarin and liquiritin in GGD may exert therapeutic effects on pneumonia-enteritis induced by H1N1 influenza virus infection by acting on targets such as TNF,ALB and EGFR.

Objective To investigate whether Piceatannol(PIC)improves diabetic retinopathy(DR)mediated by microglial polarization and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods Network pharmacology and bioinformatics were used to analyze the common targets of DR,PIC,and microglia.Human retinal vascular endothelial cells(HRVECs)were cultured in vitro and randomly divided into the NG-HRVECs group,HG-HRVECs group,and HG+PIC-HRVECs group.Cell viability was assessed by the CCK-8 assay,apoptosis was detected by the TUNEL assay,and the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-6(IL-6)were measured using ELISA kits.BV-2 cells were cultured in vitro and randomly divided into the NG-BV-2 group,HG-BV-2 group,HG+PIC-BV-2 group,HG+Si-NC-BV-2 group,HG+Si-CXCR4-BV-2 group,and HG+Ibrutinib-BV-2 group.The levels of arginase-1(Arg-1)and inducible ni-tric oxide synthase(iNOS)were measured using ELISA kits.Furthermore,conditioned medium(CM)from BV-2 cells of each group was collected to treat HRVECs,after which the viability,apoptosis rate,and TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations of the HRVECs were measured.A DR rat model was established and intervened with PIC to investigate the ameliorative effects of PIC on retinal pathology.Results Bioinformatics analysis identified CXCR4 as the key target of this study.Compared with the NG-HRVECs group,the apoptosis rate and the concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6 were increased in the HG-HRVECs group.Compared with the HG-HRVECs group,the HG+PIC-HRVECs group showed a decreased apoptosis rate and reduced concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6(all P＜0.05).Compared with the NG-BV-2 group,the HG-BV-2 group ex-hibited decreased Arg-1 levels and increased iNOS levels.Compared with the HG-BV-2 group,the HG+PIC-BV-2,HG+Si-CXCR4-BV-2,and HG+Ibrutinib-BV-2 groups all showed increased Arg-1 levels and decreased iNOS levels(all P＜0.05).Compared with the NG-BV-2-CM group,the HG-BV-2-CM group led to decreased viability,increased apoptosis rate,and in-creased concentrations of TNF-α and IL-6 in HRVECs.In contrast,the HG+PIC-BV-2-CM,HG+Si-CXCR4-BV-2-CM,and HG+Ibrutinib-BV-2-CM groups reversed the effects induced by HG-BV-2-CM on HRVECs(all P＜0.05).Animal experiment results showed that compared with DR model rats,rats treated with different doses of PIC exhibited significantly ameliora-ted retinal histopathological damage,and the protein expressions of Arg-1,iNOS,CXCR4,and p-BTK were reversed.Con-clusion PIC ameliorates DR progression mediated by microglial polarization by inhibiting the CXCR4/BTK pathway.

Objective:To evaluate the sample preparation proficiency and storage proficiency of 11 clinical biobanks in Beijing through simulated experiments, and to establish an assessment method for the quality comparability of biological samples.Methods:An exploratory research design was adopted. In November 2023, artificial composite serum quality control materials containing six recombinant human protein markers—recombinant human alanine aminotransferase (rhALT), recombinant human aspartate aminotransferase (rhAST), recombinant human creatine kinase (rhCK), recombinant human creatine kinase-MB (rhCK-MB), recombinant human B-type natriuretic peptide (rhBNP), and recombinant human troponin I (rhTNI)—were distributed to 11 clinical biobanks in Beijing City. Sample preparation and storage followed the standardized operating procedures. Proficiency differences were assessed through statistical analysis.Results:Three-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed all six protein markers showed a declining trend over storage time in ultra-low-temperature environments ( F values 11.68-4 179.66, all P<0.01). However, neither long-term/temporary refrigerator types ( F values 0.01-1.23, all P>0.05)nor placement locations within refrigerators significantly affected the stability of these six proteins ( F valus 0.03-1.47, all P>0.05). The biases in detection results for rhALT, rhAST, rhTNI, and rhBNP at different storage time points were within the allowable bias limits for each item, supporting their use as markers for protein stability in biobank samples. All 11 institutions passed the storage proficiency assessment. In the preparation proficiency assessment, deviations were observed in post-preparation sample results, with a notably high out-of-control rate for rhCK (36.36%). Conclusion:Sample preparation proficiency can serve as a quality control metric for clinical biobanks. Future external quality assessment systems for biobanks should focus on sample preparation rather than storage processes.