1.Exploring Mechanism of Anti-atherosclerosis Effect of Huangqi Chifengtang Based on AMPK/PPARα Signaling Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome
Yuqin LIANG ; Jie LIU ; Chi ZHANG ; Pingping CHEN ; Fang LU ; Shumin LIU
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(1):131-139
ObjectiveTo explore the improving effect of Huangqi Chifengtang(HCT) on atherosclerosis(AS), and elucidate its mechanism in relation to adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase(AMPK)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α(PPARα) signaling pathway and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain(NOD)-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3) inflammasome. MethodsEight C57BL/6J mice were set as the normal group, and 32 ApoE-/- mice were randomly divided into the model group, the positive drug group(atorvastatin, 5 mg·kg-1·d-1), HCT low- and high-dose groups(1.95, 3.90 g·kg-1·d-1). ApoE-/- mice were fed with high-fat and high-cholesterol feed to establish an AS mouse model. After modeling, they were orally administered corresponding dose of drugs for 28 days, while the normal and model groups received an equal volume of physiological saline via oral gavage. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was used to observe the pathological status of the aorta and liver in mice, Biochemical testing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) were used to detect the levels of total cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), alanine aminotransferase(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase(AST), C-reactive protein(CRP), interleukin(IL)-1β, IL-18 in the serum, as well as superoxide dismutase(SOD), malondialdehyde(MDA), and reduced glutathione(GSH) in the liver. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction(Real-time PCR) was used to measure the mRNA expression levels of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein(ASC), cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1(Caspase-1), Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4) in the aorta, and fatty acid synthase(FAS), stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1(SCD1), PPARα, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A(CPT1A) in the liver. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the protein expressions of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and ASC in the aorta, and Western blot was used to measure the protein expressions of AMPK, p-AMPK, sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c(SREBP-1c), CPT1A, and FAS in the liver. ResultsCompared with the normal group, the model group showed a significant increase in lipid plaque deposition in the aorta and lipid accumulation in the liver, the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, AST, ALT, IL-1β, IL-18 and CRP in the serum were significantly increased(P<0.01), and the mRNA and protein expressions of aortic TLR4, NLRP3, Caspase-1 and ASC were significantly upregulated(P<0.01). The levels of SOD and GSH in the liver were significantly reduced, while the level of MDA was significantly increased(P<0.01). The mRNA expressions of FAS and SCD1 in the liver were significantly downregulated, while the mRNA expressions of PPARα and CPT1A were significantly upregulated. The protein expressions of p-AMPK/AMPK and CPT1A in the liver were significantly reduced, while the expressions of SREBP-1c and FAS proteins were significantly increased(P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the low- and high-dose HCT groups showed significant improvements in aortic plaques and hepatic lipid deposition. The levels of TC, LDL-C, AST, IL-1β and IL-18 in the serum of the low-dose HCT group, as well as TC, TG, LDL-C, AST, ALT, IL-1β, IL-18 and CRP in the serum of the high-dose HCT group, were significantly reduced(P<0.01). The mRNA expressions of TLR4, NLRP3 and Caspase-1 in the aorta of the low-dose HCT group, as well as TLR4, NLRP3, Caspase-1 and ASC in the aorta of the high-dose HCT group, were significantly downregulated(P<0.01). The protein expressions of Caspase-1 and ASC in the aorta of the low-dose HCT group, as well as NLRP3, Caspase-1 and ASC in the high-dose HCT group, were significantly downregulated(P<0.01). The levels of SOD and GSH in the liver of the low- and high-dose HCT groups were significantly increased, while the level of MDA in the high-dose HCT group was significantly decreased(P<0.05, P<0.01). In the HCT-treated group, the mRNA expressions of FAS and SCD1 in the liver were significantly upregulated, while the mRNA expressions of PPARα and CPT1A were significantly downregulated, the protein expressions of p-AMPK/AMPK and CPT1A in the liver were significantly increased, while the protein expressions of SREBP-1c and FAS were significantly decreased(P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionHCT can improve lipid metabolism by activating the AMPK/PPARα pathway and inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammatory responses, thereby reducing hepatic lipid deposition and AS plaque formation.
2.Preventive treatment of latent tuberculosis infections in schools clusters in Hefei during 2022-2024
GUO Ce, ZHANG Qiang, QIAN Bing, CHEN Shuangshuang, HE Yuqin, XU Rui, LI Zhen, ZHAO Cunxi, WU Jinju
Chinese Journal of School Health 2026;47(3):421-424
Objective:
To analyze the school tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks and preventive treatment in Hefei from 2022 to 2024, so as to provide reference for TB prevention and control in schools.
Methods:
Data were collected on all school based TB outbreaks occurring during 2022-2024 in Hefei, defined as ≥2 epidemiologically linked TB cases within the same school during a single semester. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi square test.
Results:
Close contacts exhibited significantly higher TB incidence (2.88%) and latent mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) rates (13.80%) in the school TB outbreaks, compared to non close contacts (0.12% and 2.63%, respectively). Among close contacts, secondary school students showed lower TB incidence (0.48%) and LTBI prevalence (3.42%) than both primary school or younger children (0.68%, 6.95%) and college students ( 0.78% , 6.50%), with statistically significant differences ( χ 2=360.91, 6.37; 791.71, 102.03, all P <0.05). The proportion of LTBI individuals recommended for preventive therapy was higher in primary school or younger groups (98.59%) than in secondary (95.25%) or college students (86.34%) ( χ 2=25.86, P <0.01). However, among those recommended, close contacts had higher uptake (85.82%) and completion rates (87.25%) of preventive therapy than non close contacts (69.63% and 70.57%); similarly, secondary school students demonstrated higher uptake (91.21%) and completion rates (86.45%) compared to primary school or younger (88.57%, 83.87%) and college students (57.28%, 64.08%) ( χ 2=30.52, 26.72; 125.17, 38.84, all P <0.01). Subsequent TB incidence among LTBI close contacts (13.30%) and among those who did not complete preventive therapy (22.73%) were significantly higher than among non close contacts (2.80%, 2.41%), respectively ( χ 2=32.19, 13.87, both P <0.05).
Conclusions
In school TB outbreaks, close contacts face higher LTBI prevalence and subsequent TB risk than non close contacts. College students show notably low adherence to preventive therapy. It is necessary to take targeted measures to improve the compliance of preventive measures among students.
3.Effect of Ningying Formula (宁瘿方) Combined with Low-Dose Antithyroid Drugs on Reducing Relapse Risk for Patients with Graves' Hyperthyroidism in Remission Stage:A Retrospective Cohort Study
Yuqin HUANG ; Mingshuai ZHANG ; Shijian LIU ; Feng TAO ; Yi CHEN
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2026;67(1):45-52
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of Ningying Formula (宁瘿方) combined with low-dose antithyroid drugs (ATDs) on the relapse risk for patients with Graves' hyperthyroidism (GH) during the remission phase, and to analyze the related factors between GH relapse and thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) negativity, so as to provide evidence for the standardized management of GH in remission stage. MethodsA single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 269 GH patients in the remission stage. After propensity score matching (PSM), 102 matched pairs (204 patients) were established. The control group received low-dose ATDs as maintenance therapy, while the exposure group received the core Ningying Formula in addition to low-dose ATDs. The primary outcome was the GH recurrence rate; the secondary outcome was the thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) negativity rate (TRAb<1.75 IU/L). Safety outcomes included treatment-related adverse events. Differences between groups were assessed using Cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier curves, with sensitivity analysis performed using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). ResultsThe median follow-up in the matched cohort was 28.07 months. Regarding the GH recurrence outcome, the recurrence rate in the exposure group (18/102, 17.6%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (31/102, 30.4%; χ²=4.539, P=0.033); regarding the TRAb negativity outcome, the TRAb negativity rate in the exposure group (50/102, 49.0%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (23/102, 22.5%; χ²=15.551, P<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis for recurrence showed that Ningying Formula treatment reduced the risk of recurrence [HR=0.324, 95%CI(0.170, 0.617), P<0.001]. Male [HR=2.209, 95%CI(1.079, 4.520), P=0.030], higher initial TRAb level [per 1 IU/L increase: HR=1.033, 95%CI(1.003, 1.064), P=0.032], and larger thyroid volume [per 1 ml increase: HR=1.045, 95%CI(1.003, 1.088), P=0.035] were identified as independent risk factors for recurrence; multivariate Cox regression analysis for TRAb negativity indicated that Ningying Formula treatment promoted TRAb negativity [HR=1.826, 95%CI(1.091, 3.056), P=0.022], while a higher initial TRAb level was associated with a lower probability of negativity [HR=0.974, 95%CI(0.950, 0.998), P=0.032]. Survival analysis showed significant differences in relapse rate between groups (Log-Rank P=0.003) and in TRAb outcomes (Log-Rank P=0.034). The incidence of treatment-related adverse events was similar between groups (P=0.757). The IPTW sensitivity analysis was consistent with the primary analysis, indicating robust results. ConclusionThe Ningying Formula combined with low-dose ATDs can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence and can improve the TRAb negativity rate in GH patients during the remission stage, without increasing common adverse events, making it an optional strategy for reducing relapse risk during remission. Male gender, higher baseline TRAb level, and larger thyroid volume indicate a higher risk of recurrence, warranting focused follow-up and stratified management.
4.Mechanism of Xianfang Huomingyin in Treating Type Ⅲ Prostatitis Based on Biological Analysis and Animal Experiments
Yuqin ZHANG ; Wenliang YAO ; Mian YE ; Yuliang ZHOU ; Shenghui CHEN
Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae 2026;32(6):62-71
ObjectiveTo explore the mechanism of Xianfang Huomingyin (XFHMY) in the treatment of type Ⅲ prostatitis (CP/CPPS) through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and animal experiments. MethodsThe traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and the Swiss Target Prediction database were used to screen and sort out the active ingredients and corresponding targets of XFHMY. The potential therapeutic targets of CP/CPPS were collected from online databases, such as the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), GeneCards, and DisGeNET. The potential core targets of XFHMY for treating CP/CPPS were further screened by constructing a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and performing topological analysis. Meanwhile, the DAVID database was chosen to perform enrichment analysis on the intersection targets. On this basis, the AutoDock software was used for molecular docking, and the data was subsequently imported into the GraphPad Prism 8 software to generate a heat map. SD rats were divided into seven groups: A blank group, a sham operation group, a model group, low-, medium-, and high-dose XFHMY groups (3.645, 7.29, 14.58 g·kg-1), and a tamsulosin hydrochloride group (0.018 mg·kg-1). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to evaluate the pathological changes in prostate tissue. The inflammatory factor indicators of rats in each group were detected via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Real-time fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (Real-time PCR) and Western blot were used to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 in prostate tissue. ResultsThe HE staining showed no significant signs of inflammatory cell infiltration in the prostate of the sham operation group compared to the blank group, while the model group had significantly inflammatory cell infiltration. The ELISA results showed that compared to the blank group, TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2 in the sham operation group had no significant differences. However, they were significantly higher in the model group (P<0.01), indicating successful CP/CPPS modeling in rats. Compared with the model group, the low-,medium-and high-dose XFHMY group and the tamsulosin hydrochloride group showed significant decreases in TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2 (P<0.05,P<0.01). The Real-time PCR analysis revealed that compared to the model group, the low-dose XFHMY group had reduced Akt and NF-κB p65 mRNA expression(P<0.05,P<0.01). In the medium-and high-dose XFHMY group and tamsulosin hydrochloride group, PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB p65 mRNA levels decreased significantly(P<0.05,P<0.01). Western blot analysis showed that compared to the model group, the low-dose XFHMY group had lower p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 (P<0.05). The medium- and high-dose XFHMY group and the tamsulosin hydrochloride group showed significant decreases in p-PI3K/PI3K, p-Akt-ser473/Akt, p-Akt-thr308/Akt, and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 (P<0.01). ConclusionXFHMY may exert therapeutic efficacy on CP/CPPS by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway and reducing inflammatory responses. Additionally, NF-κB activation may be related to the activation of ser473 and thr308 sites.
5.The status and influencing factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients' fear of complications
Yuqin LIU ; Guixia HUO ; Shaobo LI ; Yumin LI ; Yunpeng LU ; Zichen ZHANG ; Qiuhui DU ; Mengdi NI ; Farong LIU ; Honghong JIA
Chinese Journal of Nursing 2025;60(17):2118-2124
Objective To investigate the status and influencing factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)patients' fear of complications,and to provide a reference for formulating targeted intervention measures.Methods From April to November 2024,370 patients with T2DM in 2 tertiary general hospitals in Daqing City were selected by convenience sampling method.General data questionnaire,Fear of Complications Questionnaire,Self-Perceived Burden Scale,Psychological Capital Questionnaire,Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale and Family Apgar Index Questionnaire were used for investigation.Univariate analysis and binary Logistic regression were performed to analyze the influencing factors.Results A total of 364 valid questionnaires were collected,with an effective recovery rate of 98.38%.The score of Fear of Complications Questionnaire was(23.47±7.47),and the incidence of fear of complications was 22.25%.Logistic regression analysis showed that medical payment methods,the number of complications,positive psychological capital and family care were the influencing factors of FoC in T2DM patients.Conclusion The fear of complications in T2DM patients is at a moderate level.Nursing staff should pay attention to the early assessment of patients' fear of complications,promptly identify and take effective measures to reduce the level of patients' fear of complications,improve their quality of life.
6.Nursing care of Takotsubo syndrome in an elderly patient after mitral valve replacement surgery:a case study
Xiaolin GU ; Chongjian ZHANG ; Liruo ZENG ; Jie LI ; Yuqin CHEN
Chinese Journal of Nursing 2025;60(17):2141-2144
This study summarizes the nursing experience of an elderly patient who developed Takotsubo syndrome following mitral valve replacement surgery.Key nursing points include:close monitoring of electrocardiogram and myocardial enzyme spectrum changes for early identification of Takotsubo syndrome;implementation of a multi-dimensional collaborative circulatory support strategy;establishment of a triadic psychological intervention model comprising"environment-communication-family support"to prevent the exacerbation of Takotsubo syndrome based on stressor management;application of multimodal early rehabilitation interventions to shorten mechanical ventilation duration.After meticulous treatment and care,the left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)of the patient improved to 46%on postoperative day 12.There were no occurrences of malignant arrhythmias or multiple organ dysfunction.On postoperative day 16,the patient was transferred to a general ward for continued specialized treatment,and on postoperative day 22,the patient was successfully discharged after rehabilitation.
7.Expert consensus on intraoperative repositioning for patients with spine fracture and dislocation (version 2025)
Dongmei BIAN ; Ke SUN ; Ningbo CHEN ; Caixia BAI ; Miao WANG ; Yafeng QIAO ; Fei WANG ; Hong WANG ; Feng TIAN ; Mei YAN ; Meng BAI ; Linjuan ZHANG ; Liyan ZHAO ; Yaqing CUI ; Xue JIANG ; Leling FENG ; Ning NING ; Junqin DING ; Lan WEI ; Yonghua ZHAI ; Yu ZENG ; Zengmei ZHANG ; Jiqun HE ; Fenggui BIE ; Hong CHEN ; Zengyan WANG ; Li LI ; Li ZHANG ; Yaying ZHOU ; Bing SHAO ; Ying WANG ; Caixia XIE ; Yanfeng YAO ; Jingjing AN ; Wen SHI ; Xiongtao LIU ; Xiaoyan AN ; Ning NAN ; Lan LI ; Xiaohui GOU ; Qiaomei LI ; Xiuting WU ; Yuqin ZHANG ; Jing LIU ; Fusen XIANG ; Xu XU ; Na MEI ; Jiao ZHOU ; Shan FAN ; Qian WANG ; Shuixia LI
Chinese Journal of Trauma 2025;41(2):138-147
Spine fracture and dislocation are common traumatic spinal conditions that often require surgical intervention due to compromised spinal stability. Surgical approaches include anterior, posterior, and combined anterior-posterior spinal procedures. According to the specific surgical requirements, patients may be placed in the prone position or repositioned between prone and supine positions during surgery. Intraoperative repositioning has become an essential step in patient positioning. However, during repositioning, patients with spinal fracture and dislocation are at increased risk for complications such as hemodynamic instability, nerve injury, and pressure injuries to the skin and soft tissue. Notably, due to the instability of the spinal cord, even minor manipulations can further exacerbate the damage, potentially leading to severe outcomes like paraplegia. Although the current clinical guidelines provide instructive recommendations for standard position, there remains no specific protocols for intraoperative repositioning in patients with spine fracture and dislocation. With a concern for the lack of clinical studies on positioning techniques, risk prevention, and operational norms for special patients, no applicable guidelines or standards are available. A consensus was required to provide clinical reference, meet the requirements of surgical treatment, and minimize the safety risks of patients caused by improper placement of positions. Professional Committee of Operating Room Nursing of Shaanxi Nursing Association organized experts in nursing management and operating room nursing from major hospitals across China to formulate Expert consensus on intraoperative repositioning for patients with spinal fracture and dislocation ( version 2025). The consensus provides 11 recommendations covering pre-repositioning preparation, intraoperative maneuvers, and post-repositioning observation, aiming to provide references for clinical standardization of the intraoperative repositioning process and protection of patients′ safety.
8.Construction and practice of the theory of “turbid toxin pathogenesis” and related prevention and treatment strategies for hepatic encephalopathy in traditional Chinese medicine/Zhuang medicine
Zhipeng WU ; Yuqin ZHANG ; Chun YAO ; Minggang WANG ; Na WANG ; Mengru PENG ; Ningfang MO ; Yaqing ZHENG ; Rongzhen ZHANG ; Dewen MAO
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2025;41(2):370-374
Hepatic encephalopathy is a difficult and critical disease with rapid progression and limited treatment methods in the field of liver disease, and it is urgently needed to make breakthroughs in its pathogenesis. Selection of appropriate prevention and treatment strategies is of great importance in delaying disease progression and reducing the incidence and mortality rates. This article reviews the theory of “turbid toxin pathogenesis” and related prevention and treatment strategies for hepatic encephalopathy in traditional Chinese medicine/Zhuang medicine, proposes a new theory of “turbid toxin pathogenesis”, analyzes the scientific connotations of “turbid”, “toxin”, and the theory of “turbid toxin pathogenesis”, and constructs the “four-step” prevention and treatment strategies for hepatic encephalopathy, thereby establishing the new clinical prevention and treatment regimen for hepatic encephalopathy represented by “four prescriptions and two techniques” and clarifying the effect mechanism and biological basis of core prescriptions and techniques in the prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, in order to provide a reference for the prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy.
9.Gut microbiota dysbiosis and male fertility: research progress on mechanisms and modulation strategies
Siyi XIA ; Yuqin SHI ; Ling ZHANG
Chinese Journal of Reproduction and Contraception 2025;45(6):564-570
In recent years, the relationship between gut microbiota and various systemic diseases has been increasingly elucidated, and its role in the male reproductive system has attracted growing attention. The gut microbiota, a complex and vast microbial community residing in the human intestine, is involved in the regulation of male fertility through multiple mechanisms, including modulation of sex hormone levels, inflammatory responses, microbial metabolites, immune regulation, and endocrine signaling pathways. Furthermore, dietary interventions, lifestyle modifications, and medical therapies can improve male fertility by restoring gut microbial balance. Exploring the intricate relationship between gut microbiota and male fertility holds significant scientific and clinical value. This review summarizes the current research progress on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between gut microbiota dysbiosis and male fertility, and discusses the potential of interventions targeting gut microbiota dysbiosis as a novel strategy to improve reproductive outcomes.
10.Value of spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction technique in evaluating triplane fractures of the distal tibia
Tao ZHANG ; Lan LI ; Qian DAN ; Junhua WU ; Haiyan WU ; Yuqin LIU
Chinese Journal of Medical Physics 2025;42(11):1445-1449
Objective To analyze the practical value of spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction techniquein evaluating triplane fractures of the distal tibia.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on183 patients with triplane fractures of the distal tibia admitted to Sichuan Orthopedic Hospital from January 2021 to March 2023.All patients underwent both X-ray and spiral CT examinations.Taking surgical reduction results as the gold standard for diagnosis,the diagnostic accuracies of X-ray examination and spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction technique for triplane fractures of the distal tibia were analyzed.Results Fracture classification according to the number of fracture fragments showed that among the 183 patients with triplane fractures of the distal tibial,there were 44 cases of four-part fractures,62 cases of three-part fractures,and 77 cases of two-part fractures.The classification by the location of epiphyseal injury in the distal tibia showed 175 cases of lateral type and 8 cases of medial type.According to whether the fracture line involved the articular surface,they were categorized into 94 cases of type I,60 cases of type II,and 29 cases of type III.For the classification of the number of fracture fragments,X-ray misdiagnosed 9 cases of four-part fractures as three-part or two-part fractures,and 21 cases of three-part fractures as two-part fractures,resulting in a diagnostic accuracy of 83.60%.For theclassification of fracture line and articular surface position,X-ray led to misdiagnosis or inaccurate diagnosis in 39 cases,with a diagnostic accuracy of 78.69%.When spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction technique was used to classify the number of fracture fragments,only 1 case of four-part fracture was misdiagnosed as three-part fracture,and 2 cases of three-part fractures were misdiagnosed as four-part fractures or two-part fractures,yielding a diagnostic accuracy of 98.36%.For the diagnosis of the positional relationship of the fracture line to the articular surface,spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction technique had 8 misdiagnoses,with a corresponding diagnostic accuracy of 95.63%.Conclusion Spiral CT three-dimensional reconstruction technique can stereoscopically display the spatial information of the triplane fractures of the distal tibia,such as the location,shape,type,and articular surface,exhibiting high accuracy for classification diagnosis and significant application value in the reduction and treatment of triplane fractures of the distal tibia.


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