Objective We aimed to explore the clinical efficacy of precise electro-acupuncture stimulation in the pterygopalatine fossa for the treatment of chronic sinusitis.Methods In total,40 patients with chronic sinusitis who visited the Xiyuan Hospital,China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences between January 2022 and January 2023 were selected.The subjects were randomly divided into two groups:the treatment group(receiving precise electro-acupuncture in the pterygopalatine fossa)and the control group(receiving standard western medical treatment),with 20 cases in each groups.The treatments were administered twice a week for a period of 12 weeks.The effectiveness of the treatments was evaluated through computed tomography(CT)of the sinus changes and the Lund-Mackay scoring system.Results In cases of total opacity and partial opacity,there were significant differences between the two patient groups before and after treatment(P<0.05).Intra-group comparison revealed statistically significant improvements in both groups before and after treatment(P<0.05).The treatment group exhibited significant improvement in various sinus conditions(P<0.05),while in the control group,a significant improvement was only observed in the left maxillary sinus(P<0.05).Inter-group comparison also demonstrated that the treatment group's improvements were superior to those of the control group across multiple indicators(P<0.05).Conclusion The precise electro-acupuncture stimulation technique in the pterygopalatine fossa demonstrated significant therapeutic effects in the treatment of chronic sinusitis,with superior outcomes with respect to radiological changes compared to standard western medicine treatment.

Objective:To validate the morphological changes of the parieto-occipital sulcus on the transcalvarial axial plane between 20 and 32 weeks of gestation, simplify grade for assessing fetal parieto-occipital sulcus development, and confirm its clinical feasibility.Methods:This was a cross-sectional study analysis that included 550 cases of normal singleton fetuses between 20 and 32 weeks of gestation, who underwent routine ultrasound examinations at Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital from September 2019 to June 2022. The morphological changes of the bilateral parieto-occipital sulci on the transcalvarial axial plane were observed. The development of the parieto-occipital sulcus was classified into 6 grades based on the developmental features of angulation, progressive closure, and curvilinear growth: straight or shallow arcuate (Grade 0), shallow and wide V-shaped (Grade 1), deep and narrow V-shaped (Grade 2), Y-shaped (Grade 3), I-shaped (Grade 4), and curvilinear (Grade 5). The gestational age at examination and pregnancy outcomes were recorded. The distribution of gestational weeks for fetuses with different grades of parieto-occipital sulci on the left and right sides was analyzed. The symmetry between bilateral parieto-occipital sulcus gradings within individuals, as well as the inter-observer and intra-observer reliability were assessed using the Weighted Kappa coefficient. The gender differences in asymmetry of parieto-occipital sulci grades between the left and right sides was analyzed. Moreover, a model for predicting the grade of the parieto-occipital sulcus based on gestational week was established.Results:Grade for the left parieto-occipital sulcus was obtained for 549 fetuses, while grade for the right was obtained for 550 fetuses. From 20 to 32 weeks of gestation, the morphology of the fetal parieto-occipital sulcus was divided into Grade 0-5, progressing from low to high with gestational development. Grade 0 showed that the sulcus was not visible or only had a slight arcuate indentation, occurring at 20-22 weeks; Grade 1 presented as a shallow and wide "V" shape with an obtuse angle at the top, appearing from 20 to 27 weeks; Grade 2 was a deep and narrow "V" shape with an acute angle at the top, appearing from 24 to 29 weeks; Grade 3 appeared as a "Y" shape with the top part partially closed and the bottom still open, occurring between 26 to 30 weeks; Grade 4 was a fully closed "I" shape, appearing at 29-32 weeks; Grade 5 presented as a curved shape, indicating the parieto-occipital sulcus was approaching maturity, appearing from 31 to 32 weeks. There was no statistically significant difference in the distribution of gestational weeks for bilateral parieto-occipital sulcus developmental grade ( P>0.05). Bilateral parieto-occipital sulcus grade could be assessed in 549 fetuses, of which 43 cases (7.83%) exhibited grade asymmetry with a one-grade difference between sides; such asymmetry showed no significant difference between male and female genders ( P=0.647). The weighted kappa coefficient analysis results indicated a strong consistency in the development of the parieto-occipital sulci on both sides within individuals, generally demonstrating symmetrical development ( P<0.001). The intra-observer and inter-observer weighted kappa coefficients were 0.92 and 0.75, respectively, with good consistency. Conclusions:Prenatal ultrasound via the transcalvarial axial plane enables a preliminary and rapid assessment of the development of bilateral parieto-occipital sulci, facilitating early evaluation of fetal cortical maturation.

Objective To study the effect of squatting toilet behavior on gastric transport time(GTT)and complete examination rate of small bowel(CER)during capsule endoscopy.Methods A total of 122 patients who underwent capsule endoscopy at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January to December 2019 were recruited and randomly divided into test group(n=63)and control group(n=59).The patients of the test group were asked to take squatting posture for toileting after swallowing the capsule,while those of the control group were asked to take sitting in defecation if needed.GTT,small bowel transit time(SBTT),CER and diagnostic yield(DY)were compared between the 2 groups.Results There were no significant differences in gender,age and conditions during hospitalization between the test group and the control group.The test group obtained obviously higher CER(92.06％vs 79.66％,P=0.048)and shorter GTT(26.7 vs 45.6 min,P=0.027)when compared with the control group.No statistical differences were seen in SBTT and DY between the 2 groups.Conclusion Squatting posture for toileting of patients accepted capsule endoscopy can reduce the transit time of capsules in the stomach and increase the CER.

Objective To establish diagnostic criteria for dampness syndrome through scientific and normative research methods.Methods The basis for syndrome differentiation of dampness syndrome was comprehensively integrated through literature research and structured tools,and in-depth investigation was carried out on the connotation and extension of dampness syndrome,judgment basis and criteria construction through questionnaire surveys and consensus conference method.Results Thirty-six items for syndrome differentiation of dampness syndrome were obtained through literature research.Through the questionnaire surveys,some experts suggested that the diagnosis mode of dampness syndrome should be in line with the clinical practice requirements.Accordingly,we were deep in thought about the key issue of"how to establish accurate diagnostic criteria".After in-depth investigation,we found that the dampness syndrome had specific and sensitive indicators.And 11 specific and 19 sensitive indicators were determined.Furthermore,according to the experts'suggestions,the specific indicators were classified into three categories based on dampness characteristics.Meanwhile,we investigated the diagnosis attributes of Chinese medicine syndromes and summarized them into four corresponding modes.Based on this,specificity mode and similarity/consistency mode should be adopted for diagnostic criteria for dampness syndrome.In addition,the judgment form in accord with the diagnostic attributes of dampness syndrome was determined.Conclusion This diagnostic criteria can provide a basis for the clinical diagnosis of dampness syndrome.Besides,this study explored the diagnostic attributes of Chinese medicine syndromes,which could provide reference for the development of other Chinese medicine syndrome criteria.

Objective To form the in vitro diagnostic reagents(IVD)selection and optimization management plan and management database,and optimize the IVD management work.Methods Through the analysis of the policy background and the current management status of the IVD clinical laboratory in Beijing Hospital,the selection and optimization management plan for existing and newly applied laboratory IVD was formulated based on clinical needs.The IVD of the whole hospital was selected and optimized by combing projects,open bidding,innovative quotation methods,on-site review and other steps.The IVD management database and qualification database of Beijing Hospital was formed,and the effect from the aspects of compliance,work efficiency and cost control was evaluated.Results The selection and optimization of 1 737 IVDs in the whole hospital were completed according to the formulated IVD selection and optimization management plan.The implementation of management plan improved the work efficiency.The content of review in an average meeting was increased by more than 10 times,and the frequency of new applications for IVD access was accelerated,while the IVD cost was reduced,and the average purchase amount of the whole hospital was reduced by about 15％.The prices of key IVD products were lower after selection than before selection,and the difference was significant(t=2.493,P=0.034).Conclusion The management scheme of IVD selection and optimization was feasible,and it could achieve the goal of ensuring compliance,improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Objective To establish in vitro diagnostic(IVD)reagents closed-loop management scheme for the whole process and implement,and optimize the IVD management.Methods Based on the status quo of IVD management in Beijing Hospital,the closed-loop management scheme of the whole IVD process was designed,such as IVD application,IVD selection,IVD subscription,IVD purchase,IVD receipt,IVD inbound and outbound,and IVD use.Key indicators were selected to establish an evaluation framework.Management data,procurement data and testing data before(2020)and after(2023)implementation of the program were collected and counted by means of interviews and consulting relevant information systems,and then process management,quality management and cost management were evaluated.Results The management process was optimized,the IVD purchase time was shortened by about 60％on average,the IVD purchase did not need manual processing,the order was split in real time and sent to the corresponding supplier,and the IVD collection time was shortened by about 75％on average.IVD and test quality management were satisfactory,supplier qualification perfection reached 100％,full marks were obtained in the inter-room quality assessment,and no IVD-related adverse events were observed.The cost management was effective,and the IVD procurement cost was reduced by about 15％.IVD cost fine management models were established for four items,namely,human immunodeficiency virus antibody assay,hepatitis C antibody assay,treponemal antibody assay and hepatitis B surface antigen quantitative assay.The average value of IVD loss was 0.07％～1.21％,and the standard deviation was 0.07％～0.66％.Conclusion The IVD whole process closed-loop management scheme is feasible,which can improve the efficiency of IVD management,ensure the quality of IVD and detection,reduce the cost of IVD,and refine the cost management work.

Hospital culture constitutes the core competitiveness of modern hospitals and serves as the intrinsic driving force for the development of public hospitals.It permeates and affects various aspects of hospital operations,including medical quality,modern management,scientific research and teaching,and talent cultivation.An advanced hospital culture is instrumen-tal in bolstering a hospital's core competitiveness,establishing a positive image,fostering harmonious doctor-patient relation-ships,and facilitating high-quality development.The First People's Hospital of Changzhou,under the guidance of Party-building theories,has adopted the"532"development strategy.The hospital has pursued a"Five Implementations"approach to cultivate its spirit,system,service,integrity,and brand.This strategy is pivotal in solidifying the ideological foundation among staff through the development of a robust spiritual culture.It has also enhanced the level of scientific management by strengthening in-stitutional culture,improved patient experience through the refinement of service culture,raised awareness in medical service by constructing a culture of integrity,and expanded industry influence by shaping a distinct brand culture.These efforts have contin-uously elevated the hospital's management standards and,patient experience,thus promoting its high-quality development.

Objective:To systematically review the current situation and risk factors of social isolation among elderly people in Chinese communities.Methods:The research on social isolation of elderly people in Chinese communities was electronically searched on China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Data, VIP, China Biology Medicine disc, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The search period was from database establishment to August 1, 2023. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening, quality evaluation, and data extraction, and used Stata 17.0 software to conduct Meta-analysis on the incidence and risk factors of social isolation among elderly people in the community.Results:A total of 29 articles were included, with a total of 49 713 samples. Meta-analysis showed that the incidence of social isolation among elderly people in Chinese communities was 29.5%. Advanced age, education below college level, poor self-rated health, lack of exercise, coexistence of chronic diseases, impaired daily living activities, hearing loss, depression, lack of spouse, low family care, low social support, and low social participation were the main risk factors for social isolation among elderly people in the community ( OR ranging from 1.57 to 3.34, P<0.05) . Conclusions:The incidence of social isolation among elderly people in Chinese communities is high, and there are many risk factors. Medical and nursing staff should strengthen early screening for social isolation among the elderly and provide early intervention for the risk factors.

Atherosclerosis(AS) is an important pathological feature of cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction,stroke and other highly fatal diseases. Phlegm and dampness are considered to be an important pathogenesis of AS,which is difficult to heal and can cause complications. The establishment of an animal model with AS and phlegm-dampness syndrome,which could reflect the features of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),and objective evaluation system are an important element of modern integrated TCM and western medicine research on cardiovascular diseases. It is of great significance for TCM to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases. This article summarizes the scientific connotations of traditional Chinese and western medicine for AS and phlegm-dampness syndrome,comprehensively summarizes the current status of construction and evaluation in experimental animal model,analyzes the problems of current model,and discusses the factors of model construction and evaluation. Our aim is to establish normalized and standardized animal model with AS of phlegm-dampness syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Ever-growing tissue regeneration causes pressing need for large population of stem cells. However, extensive cell expansion eventually leads to impaired regenerative potentials. In this study, chromobox protein homolog 7 (CBX7) was overexpressed to rejuvenate late passage dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs-P9). METHODS: The recruitment of copper ions (Cu2+ )-activated hypoxia-inducible factor-1a (HIF-1a) to the CBX7 gene promoter was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Functions subsequent to Cu2+ -induced or recombinant overexpression of CBX7 on proliferation, multipotency, odontoblastic differentiation and angiogenesis were investigated in vitro, while murine subcutaneous transplantation model was used to further detect the effects of Cu2+ -induced CBX7 overexpression in vivo. RESULTS: Our data displayed that CBX7 overexpression maintain proliferation and multipotency of DPSCs-P9 almost as strong as those of DPSCs-P3. Both gene level of odontoblast-lineage markers and calcium precipitation were nearly the same between CBX7 overexpressed DPSCs-P9 and normal DPSCs-P3. Moreover, we also found upregulated expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in DPSCs-P9 with CBX7 overexpression, which increased the number of capillary-like structures and migrating co-cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells as well. These findings indicate CBX7 as an effective factor to rejuvenate late passage stem cells insusceptible to cell expansion. Cu2+ has been proved to achieve CBX7 overexpression in DPSCs through the initiation of HIF-1a-CBX7 cascade. Under Cu2+ stimulation since P3, DPSCs-P9 exhibited ameliorated regenerative potential both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION Long-term stimulation of Cu2+ to overexpress CBX7 could be a new strategy to manufacture large population of self-renewing stem cells.