[Experience of mesenteric sector fixation in mesenteric torsion treatment]

Objective: The preliminary results was reported regarding the treatment of mesenteric torsion by mesenteric fixation in the last decade, especially preventing recurrence of mesenteric torsion by mesenteric fan-shaped fixation. Methods: We selected 12 patients who received emergency operation in Chongqing Hospital of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine from December 2010 to March 2022. All of them were made a definite diagnose of mesenteric torsion by the preoperative CT scan or exploratory laparotomy. The recurrence of mesenteric torsion will be prevented by taking the operation of mesenteric fan-shaped fixation. This technique is suitable for the patient who is suffering total mesenteric torsion, but enteric necrosis is excluded affirmatively. The operation is consists of the following progress: (1) Exploratory laparotomy to check for necrosis of the bowel and for lesions other than torsion. (2) Mesenteric torsion derotation.(3) Mesenteric linear fixation; the right posterior lower border of the small mesentery (terminal ileal mesentery) is intermittently sutured to the posterior peritoneum of the right lower quadrant to increase the width of the base of the small mesentery. (4) Mesenteric fan-shaped fixation, which is fan-shaped to the lower left and fixed in the posterior peritoneum, shortening the length of the mesentery and further increasing the width of the mesentery and posterior peritoneal fixation. Results: A total of 12 patients with mesenteric torsion were treated by operation for 15 times in all. Among them, 3 cases received resection of most small bowel were performed without recurrence; 3 patients received only derotation for a total of 4 times, 2 cases recurred, 1 of them recurred twice; 4 cases underwent derotation and mesenteric linear fixation,and 1 case recurred. Four patients with derotation and mesenteric fan-shaped fixation recovered well without recurrence. Conclusion: Mesenteric fan-shaped fixation may be an effective operative type to reduce or avoid postoperative recurrence of mesenteric torsion.

Resolvin D1 inhibits T follicular helper cell expansion in systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

Resolvin D1 (RvD1) is one of the specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators, which control inflammation resolution and regulate immune responses. Previous research showed that RvD1 could block the progression of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the detailed mechanism remains to be fully understood.

METHOD

Plasma RvD1 levels, and proportions of T follicular helper cells (Tfh cells) were measured in SLE patients and healthy controls. Plasma RvD1 levels and proportions of Tfh cells were quantitated in an MRL/lpr mouse model of lupus treated with RvD1. Naïve CD4+ T cells were purified from MRL/lpr mice to study the effect of RvD1 on Tfh cell differentiation in vitro.

RESULTS

In patients, there were significant negative correlations between plasma RvD1 levels and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score, as well as between plasma RvD1 and anti-double-stranded DNA antibody levels, and numbers of peripheral Tfh cells and plasma cells. In MRL/lpr mice, the expected amelioration of disease phenotype and inflammatory response with RvD1 treatment correlated with decreased percentages of Tfh cells and plasma cells. In addition, the differentiation and proliferation of Tfh cells were markedly suppressed by RvD1 in vitro.

CONCLUSION

RvD1 may control SLE progression through the suppression of Tfh cell differentiation and subsequent inhibition of B-cell responses.

Metabolite Profiling Reveals the Dynamic Changes in Non-Volatiles and Volatiles during the Enzymatic-Catalyzed Processing of Aijiao Oolong Tea

The enzymatic reaction stage (ECS) of oolong tea processing plays an important role in the formation of the flavor quality of the oolong tea. To investigate the dynamic changes in the volatile and non-volatile components in the leaves of oolong tea during the ECS, metabolomic studies were carried out using the leaf samples collected at different stages of the ECS of Aijiao oolong tea. Out of the identified 306 non-volatile metabolites and 85 volatile metabolites, 159 non-volatile metabolites and 42 volatile metabolites were screened out as key differential metabolites for dynamic changes during the ECS. A multivariate statistical analysis on the key differential metabolites showed that the accumulations of most metabolites exhibited dynamic changes, while some amino acids, nucleosides, and organic acids accumulated significantly after turning-over treatment. The evolution characteristics of 27 key precursors or transformed VOCs during the ECS of Aijiao oolong tea were clarified, and it was found that the synthesis of aroma substances was mainly concentrated in lipids as precursors and glycosides as precursor pathways. The results revealed the dynamic changes in the flavor metabolites in the ECS during the processing of Aijiao oolong tea, which provided valuable information for the formation of the characteristic flavor of Aijiao oolong tea.

[Transdermal patches containing Cassia seed extract applied at the navel for slow transit constipation in rats: therapeutic effect and analysis of the spectrum-effect relationship]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the therapeutic effect of transdermal patches containing Cassia seed extract applied at the navel on slow transit constipation (STC) in rats and explore the spectrum-effect relationship of the patches.

METHOD

In a STC rat model established by gavage of compound diphenoxylate suspension for 14 days, the transdermal patches containing low, medium and high doses of Cassia seed extract (41.75, 125.25, and 375.75 mg/kg, respectively) were applied at the Shenque acupoint on the abdomen for 14 days after modeling, with constipation patches (13.33 mg/kg) as the positive control. After the treatment, fecal water content and intestinal propulsion rate of the rats were calculated, the pathological changes in the colon were observed with HE staining. Serum NO and NOS levels and the total protein content and NO, NOS and AChE expressions in the colon tissue were determined. HPLC fingerprints of the transdermal patches were established, and the spectrum-effect relationship between the common peaks of the patches and its therapeutic effect were analyzed.

RESULTS

Treatment with the transdermal patches containing Cassia seed extract significantly increased fecal water content and intestinal propulsion rate of the rat models, where no pathological changes in the colon tissue were detected. The treatment also suppressed the elevations of serum and colonic NO and NOS levels and reduction of AChE in STC rats. Twenty-eight common peaks were confirmed in the HPLC fingerprints of 6 batches of Cassia seed extract-containing patches. Analysis of the spectrum-effect relationship showed that autrantio-obtusin had the greatest contribution to the therapeutic effect of the patches in STC rats.

CONCLUSION

The Cassia seed extract-containing patches alleviates STC in rats via synergistic actions of multiple active ingredients in the extract, where autrantio-obtusin, rhein, chrysoobtusin, obtusin, obtusifolin, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion are identified as the main active ingredients.

Ultrasound Activated Nanobowls with Deep Penetration for Enhancing Sonodynamic Therapy of Orthotopic Liver Cancer

Owing to the high penetration ability and the safety of ultrasound (US) of sonodynamic therapy (SDT), it has gained significant attention in tumor treatment. However, its therapeutic efficiency depends on the performance of the sonosensitizers. The hypoxic microenvironment and abnormal stromal matrix restrict the full potential of sonosensitizers. In this study, a US-activated bowl-shaped nanobomb (APBN) is designed as a novel sonosensitizer to enhance the SDT effect through various means. This enhancement strategy combines three major characteristics: relieving tumor hypoxia, amplifying bubble cavitation damage, and US-movement-enhanced permeation. The unique bowl-shaped structure of APBN provides more favorable attachment sites for the generated oxygen gas bubbles. Thus, when catalase-like APBN catalyzes endogenous hydrogen peroxide to produce oxygen, bubbles accumulate at the groove, preventing the dissipation of oxygen and increasing the number of cavitation nuclei to improve the acoustic cavitation effect. This approach differs from traditional SDT strategies because it couples the sonodynamic effect with reactive oxygen species generation and bubble cavitation damage rather than a single action. Additionally, the asymmetric bowl-shaped structure generates a driving force under the US field, improving the distribution of sonosensitizers in the tumors. Using US and photoacoustic imaging for dual localization, these sonosensitizers can improve the accuracy of orthotopic liver tumor treatment, which presents a promising avenue for the treatment of deep tumors.

[Retrospective analysis of perioperative anaphylactic shock induced by cefuroxime]

This study investigated the characteristics and frequency of perioperative anaphylactic shock induced by cefuroxime, so as to provide a reference for the safe and rational use of cefuroxime in the perioperative period. Cases of perioperative anaphylactic shock caused by cefuroxime in our hospital from 2011 to 2021 were extracted from the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring System. Literature reporting adverse drug reactions (ADR) including cefuroxime-induced anaphylactic shock in perioperative settings was collected from the CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from their respective inception to May 2022. Statistical analysis was performed for all cases of cefuroxime-induced perioperative anaphylactic shock. A total of 31 patients were included [13 men (48.1%) and 14 women (51.9%)], most of whom were over 60 years old (n=16, 59.3%); 9 (29.0%) patients had a history of drug allergy; 5 (16.1%) patients had received skin tests, but with negative results; 28 (90.3%) patients received treatment intravenously; 22 (71.0%) patients were treated after anesthesia. For 20 (64.5%) patients the ADR occurred within 10 minutes after anesthesia. The main manifestations were hypotension, dyspnea, rash, and tachycardia. For all patients, symptoms resolved after withdrawal of the drug and active rescue, and there were no deaths. A history of allergy and skin test findings may have limitations in predicting perioperative anaphylactic shock caused by cefuroxime; greater vigilance should be exercised when using cefuroxime in the perioperative period. Close monitoring is recommended for patients undergoing treatment with cefuroxime. Rescue therapy should be administered for allergic shock, and suitable response measures must be taken in a timely manner to ensure the safety of patients.

Surfactant-like Additives Assisted the Lateral Growth of Pentacene Films

Lateral growth of thin films is crucial for organic electronic devices, such as field-effect transistors. Here, we report a strategy to improve the lateral growth of pentacene films using rubrene as a surfactant-like additive. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images confirm the enhanced lateral growth with the presence of rubrene, resulting in smooth and enlarged molecule domains in the films in comparison to those without rubrene. Molecular dynamics simulations are conducted to explore the interlayer diffusion of pentacene molecules during the growth. With the rubrene molecules as surfactant-like additives, mean square displacement (MSD) analysis shows that the pentacene molecules have a descending diffusion coefficient of 2.0 × 10-5 cm2 s-1, which is greater than the ascending diffusion coefficient of 1.6 × 10-5 cm2 s-1. The more descending molecules lead to an enhanced lateral growth of pentacene films, which is in good agreement with the experiments. As a result, the pentacene films grown with rubrene exhibit a rapid increase in carrier mobility over thickness due to the well-connected domains resulting from enhanced lateral growth. This finding will provide a new strategy to modulate the morphology of organic films for high-performance devices.

Construction of a Functional Nucleic Acid-Based Artificial Vesicle-Encapsulated Composite Nanoparticle and Its Application in Retinoblastoma-Targeted Theranostics

Retinoblastoma (RB) is an aggressive tumor of the infant retina. However, the ineffective targeting of its theranostic agents results in poor imaging and therapeutic efficacy, which makes it difficult to identify and treat RB at an early stage. In order to improve the imaging and therapeutic efficacy, we constructed an RB-targeted artificial vesicle composite nanoparticle. In this study, the MnO2 nanosponge (hMNs) was used as the core to absorb two fluorophore-modified DNAzymes to form the Dual/hMNs nanoparticle; after loaded with the artificial vesicle derived from human red blood cells, the RB-targeted DNA aptamers were modified on the surface, thus forming the Apt-EG@Dual/hMNs complex nanoparticle. The DNA aptamer endows this nanoparticle to target the nucleolin-overexpressed RB cell membrane specifically and enters cells via endocytosis. The nanoparticle could release fluorophore-modified DNAzymes and supplies Mn2+ as a DNAzyme cofactor and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) agent. Subsequently, the DNAzymes can target two different mRNAs, thereby realizing fluorescence/MR bimodal imaging and dual-gene therapy. This study is expected to provide a reliable and valuable basis for ocular tumor theranostics.

[Construction of an evaluation index system for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain - type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept]

OBJECTIVE

To construct an evaluation index system for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept, so as to provide insights into the control and elimination of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis using the One Health approach.

METHODS

A preliminary evaluation index system was constructed based on literature review, panel discussions and field surveys. Thirty-three experts were selected from 7 provincial disease control and prevention centers in Beijing Municipality, Hebei Province, Shanxi Province, Henan Province, Sichuan Province, Shaanxi Province and Gansu Province where mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis was endemic, and two rounds of expert consultations were conducted to screen the indicators. The positive coefficient, degree of concentration, degree of coordination, and authority of the experts were calculated, and the normalized weights of each index were calculated with the analytic hierarchy process.

RESULTS

The response rates of questionnaires during two rounds of expert consultation were both 100.00% (33/33), and the authority coefficients of the experts were 0.86 and 0.88, respectively. The coefficients of coordination among experts on the rationality, importance, and operability of the indicators were 0.392, 0.437, 0.258, and 0.364, 0.335, 0.263, respectively (all P values < 0.05). Following screening, the final evaluation index system included 3 primary indicators, 17 secondary indicators, and 50 tertiary indicators. The normalized weights of primary indicators "external environment", "internal support" and "comprehensive control" were 16.98%, 38.73% and 44.29%, respectively. Among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "external environment", the highest weight was seen for natural environment (66.67%), and among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "internal support", the lowest weight was seen for the scientific research for visceral leishmaniasis control (8.26%), while other indicators had weights of 12.42% to 13.38%. Among the secondary indicators of the primary indicator "comprehensive control", the weight was 16.67% for each indicator.

CONCLUSIONS

An evaluation index system has been constructed for the capability of comprehensive control of mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the One Health concept. In addition to assessment of the effect of conventional mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis control measures, this index system integrates the importance of top-level design, organizational management, and implementation of control measures, and includes indicators related to multi-sectoral cooperation.

[Prevalence of taeniasis and sero - prevalence of anti - cysticercus antibody among residents in Tibetan agricultural areas of Sichuan Province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of taeniasis and cysticercosis among residents in Tibetan agricultural areas of Sichuan Province, so as to provide insights for the prevention and control of taeniasis and cysticercosis.

METHODS

From 2016 to 2022, Kangding City, Daocheng County, Derong County, Ruoergai County and Muli Tibetan Autonomous County were sampled from Tibetan agricultural areas of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture and Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, and 1 to 6 townships were sampled from each county (district), followed by 4 to 7 villages sampled from each township. Primary school children were sampled using a cluster sampling method, and permanent residents at ages of over 16 years were randomly sampled from each village. Participants' demographics, history of tapeworm excretion during the past year and clinical symptoms and signs of cysticercosis were collected through questionnaire surveys, and participants' stool and venous blood samples were collected. Taenia eggs were detected in stool samples using the direct smear method, and deworming was performed among taeniasis patients with areca nut-squash seeds. The tapeworm species were identified using a multiplex PCR assay, and serum specific IgG antibody against cysticercus was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

A total of 5 249 respondents participated in the questionnaire survey, including 603 respondents (11.5%) with a self-reported history of proglottids secretion during the past year. A total of 3 976 residents were subjected to stool examinations, and the detection of Taenia eggs was 6.5%. Of 258 participants undergoing deworming, there were 403 cases (94.2%) with excretions of Taenia worms or proglottids. The mean prevalence of taeniasis was 10.9% (439/4 043), and there were gender-, age- and region-specific prevalence rates of taeniasis (χ2 = 36.73, 126.31 and 163.41, all P values < 0.05). Multiplex PCR assays detected 41 cases with T. solium infections (12.5%), 197 cases with T. saginata infections (59.9%) and 91 cases with T. asiatica infections (27.6%) among 329 patients undergoing deworming, and there were region-specific prevalence rates of T. solium, T. saginata and T. asiatica infections (χ2 = 45.39, P < 0.05). In addition, the sero-prevalence of anti-cysticercus IgG antibody was 7.0% (345/4 933), and there were age- and region-specific sero-prevalence rates of anti-cysticercus IgG antibody (χ2 = 13.49 and 51.76, both P values < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple Taenia species are prevalent in Tibetan agricultural areas of Sichuan Province and the sero-prevalence of anti-cysticercus antibody is high among residents. Monitoring and control of taeniasis and cysticercosis should be strengthened.

[Exploring the factors affecting music-related quality of life in post-lingual deaf adults with cochlear implants]

Objective: To observe the feelings of listening to music and the importance of music in the daily life of post-lingual deaf adults with cochlear implants, and to explore the relevant influencing factors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey study. From January 2021 to August 2021,the Music-Related Quality of Life Scale was used to evaluate the music needs and music experiences of 63 post-lingual deaf adults who met the inclusion criteria, including 27 males and 36 females, aged (40.7±12.3) years, at the time of surgery (36.8±13.1) years, and with a preoperative hearing aid ineffective time of (3.9±5.8) years. Indicators analyzed included age, duration of ineffective preoperative hearing aid wear, preoperative music preference, duration of postoperative cochlear implant use, current hearing aid modality, and auditory rehabilitation outcomes. Whether the six factors mentioned above constituted an influence on the subjects' music listening was investigated using SPSS 25.0 statistical software. Results: All of the observations in the scale were correlated with a single factor. The two sub-dimensions of music experience section were related to the effect of auditory rehabilitation. In the importance section, the effect of auditory rehabilitation was the influential factor of the dimension of "participation importance", and the preoperative enjoyment of music was the relevant influential factor of the dimension of "perceived importance". There was a significant difference between the groups when they were grouped by the above factors (P value<0.05), while there was no statistically significance between the groups when they were grouped by other factors (P value>0.05). Conclusions: Post-lingual deaf adults show the need and attempt to listen to music after cochlear implantation. The effectiveness of auditory rehabilitation and the degree of music preference preoperatively are two important factors that influence music listening in implant recipients. Once the level of auditory communication has been restored to a certain degree, it is important to pay more attention to the needs of music for implant recipients and train them in time, especially for those with music preferences preoperatively.

THE EFFECT OF CHILDHOOD SUBJECTIVE SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS ON MENTAL HEALTH: THE MEDIATING ROLES OF PERCEIVED DISCRIMINATION AND STATUS ANXIETY

This study explored the effect of childhood subjective socioeconomic status on mental health and the chain-mediating mechanism of perceived discrimination and status anxiety. A random survey was conducted via an online survey platform with 999 college students in east China. Participants completed the Childhood Subjective Socioeconomic Status Scale, General Health Questionnaire, Status Anxiety Scale, and the Perceived Personal Discrimination Scale. The sample comprised 323 men and 676 women. The mean age was 20.49±2.70 years. Mediation analysis using Model 6 and 5,000 bootstrap samples was employed to explore the mediating role of perceived discrimination and status anxiety in the relationship between childhood subjective socioeconomic status and mental health. Mental health was significantly positively correlated with childhood socioeconomic status, and significantly negatively correlated with perceived discrimination and status anxiety. Perceived discrimination and status anxiety played a partial chain mediating role between childhood socioeconomic status and mental health. The mediation model accounted for 31% of the variance in mental health. Moreover, the results indicated that the significant mediating effect of perceived discrimination between childhood subjective SES and mental health had a value of 0.029 and a 95% confidence interval of [0.019, 0.041]. Furthermore, the significant mediating effect of status anxiety between childhood subjective SES and mental health had a value of 0.010 and a 95% confidence interval of [0.006, 0.014]. The results provide an explanation of how childhood subjective socioeconomic status influences their mental health. Interventions to address perceived discrimination and status anxiety can improve the mental health status of children who experience childhood adversity. The study's findings contribute to understanding mental health in childhood and inform potential interventions to improve the well-being of individuals who have experienced childhood adversity. The limitations of the study were self-report scales and potential biases in the sample population. Addressing these limitations will enhance the credibility of the research and pave the way for future studies.

Knowledge domain and emerging trends in sacubitril/valsartan study from 2008 to 2023 - a visualized conclusive analysis based on novel scientometric tools

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the evolution of sacubitril-valsartan research and analyze the publications quantitatively and qualitatively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used the bibliometric method and a combination of CiteSpace_6.1.6 and VOSviewer_1.6.18 to identify top authors, countries, institutions, co-cited articles, co-cited journals, keywords, and trends. This study prioritized key aspects in the existing global research on Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan) to assess our depth of knowledge in this field and identify potential insights. The objective was to generate a reference for the utilization of the "angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor" (ARNI).

RESULTS

From 2008 to 2022, citations of sacubitril-valsartan showed an upward trend. VOSviewer keyword analysis of 3,408 publications identified 624 keywords and divided them into seven different clusters. The clustered network was constructed based on 1,191 references cited by 3,408 publications that met the terms, where the clustered network of sacubitril-valsartan was presented. These publications can be regarded as fundamental to Entresto's research. Analysis of co-cited reference clusters showed that other than Entresto's novel application in other diseases, the new combination with other medication or mechanical assistance therapies against heart failure was Entresto's latest focus. Analysis of citation bursts showed that the rank of the top 25 keywords, according to the chronological sequence, marked Entresto's research entering a new era of exploring the extended application in other diseases and novel combinations with other diverse therapies.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that emerging new mechanisms in sacubitril-valsartan therapy intended for more targets in the pathogenesis of specific diseases will be the focus of further studies.

[Investigating ocular parameters for predicting anomalous vault among phakic intraocular lens patients]

Objective: To analyze the relationships between preoperative ocular parameters and postoperative anomalous vaults, and research their predictive diagnostic value. Methods: In this retrospective case series study, 664 eyes from 332 patients underwent posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation at Shanghai Bright Eye Hospital and Wuxi Huaxia Eye Hospital from November 2020 to November 2021. Preoperative ocular parameters, including spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure, horizontal/vertical ciliary sulcus diameters (HCS/VCS), white-to-white diameters (WTW), corneal steep/flat curvature, central corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), and axial length were collected. The pIOL vaults were measured 3 months after surgery. Patients were categorized into low vault group, optimal vault group, and high vault group based on whether the vault fell within the ideal range (250 to 750 μm). Using the optimal vault group as a benchmark, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn for each ocular parameter of the low and high vault groups to analyze diagnostic efficiency and cut-off values for abnormal vaults after pIOL operation. Each ocular parameter was used as an independent variable to establish a multivariate logistic regression model for two different vault anomalies. ROC curves were drawn and analyzed again based on the regression results. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in WTW, HCS-WTW, ACD, and LT among the three groups. Comparisons between each pair of groups indicated that WTW in the high vault group significantly differed from the other two groups (P<0.05), HCS-WTW in the low vault group significantly differed from the other groups (P<0.05), and ACD and LT explained statistical differences among the three groups (P<0.05), while other parameters showed no differences. ROC curves illustrated that independent ocular parameters such as LT, HCS-WTW, and ACD had clinical predictive diagnostic significance for low vault abnormalities. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity for these parameters were 0.829(0.952, 0.561), 0.745(0.857, 0.644), and 0.730(0.619, 0.853), respectively. The diagnostic cut-off values were 3.745, 0.020, and 2.975 mm, respectively. The clinical predictive significance of independent ocular parameters in diagnosing the high vault group was poor (AUC<0.7). The predictive Logistic model equation for low vault was Logistic(V1)=-10.067+5.328·HCS-3.620·WTW+6.263·LT, and the predictive model for high vault was Logistic(V2)=6.232+1.323·WTW-3.358·LT. The new parameters in the predictive equation significantly improved the diagnostic efficiency of low and high vault abnormalities, reaching 0.884(0.810, 0.824) and 0.736(0.810, 0.554), respectively. Conclusions: Preoperative predictive diagnostic parameters for postoperative low vault group included LT, HCS-WTW, and ACD, while the high vault group had no independent predictive diagnostic parameters. Logistic regression improved the predictive diagnostic efficiency of abnormal vaults.

[From treatment to whole course management: envisioning comprehensive management of Talaromycosis marneffei]

Talaromycosis marneffei has been increasing in recent years. Our understanding of this disease has gradually deepened through extensive basic and clinical research, but there are still many limitations. In this article, by incorporating the latest research advancements, we discuss important issues in managing Talaromycosis marneffei trends, aiming to guide effective prevention and control of the disease, improving public health, and reducing the healthcare burden.

Analysis of Characteristics in the Macro-Composition and Volatile Compounds of Understory Xiaobai White Tea

Understory planting affects the growth environment of tea plants, regulating the tea plant growth and the formation of secondary metabolites, which in turn affects the flavor of Xiaobai white tea. The present research adopted biochemical composition determination, widely targeted volatilities (WTV) analysis, multivariate statistical analysis, and odor activity value (OAV) analysis to analyze the characteristics in the macro-composition and volatile compounds of understory white tea. The sensory evaluation results indicated that understory Xiaobai white tea (LWTs) was stronger than ordinary Xiaobai white tea (PWTs) in terms of the taste of smoothness, sweetness, and thickness as well as the aromas of the flower and sweet. Understory planting reduced light intensity and air temperature, increased air humidity, organic matter, total nitrogen, and available nitrogen contents, which improved the growth environment of tea plants. The phytochemical analysis showed that the water-extractable substances, caffeine, flavonoids, and soluble sugar contents of understory tea fresh-leaf (LF) were higher than those of ordinary fresh-leaf (PF). The phytochemical analysis showed that the free amino acids, theaflavins, thearubigins, water-extractable substances, and tea polyphenols contents of LWTs were significantly higher than those of PWTs, which may explain the higher smoothness, sweetness, and thickness scores of LWTs than those of PWTs. The 2-heptanol, 2-decane, damasone, and cedar alcohol contents were significantly higher in LWTs than in PWTs, which may result in stronger flowery and sweet aromas in LWTs than in PWTs. These results provide a firm experimental basis for the observed differences in the flavor of LWTs and PWTs.

[Characteristics and impact factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection in adult patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy]

Objective: To explore the clinical characteristics and treatment of COVID-19 infection in patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma before and after receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, and study the influencing factors of severe COVID-19 infection in these patients. Methods: The data of 59 patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma who received chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy at the Department of Hematology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology and Department of Hematology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University between December 2017 and February 2023, and who were infected with novel coronavirus between December 2022 and February 2023 were retrospectively studied. Patients were divided into light, medium, severe, and critical groups, and the differences between the groups were analyzed using the chi-square test. A univariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate the contribution of each variable and its relationship with severe infection. The chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to analyze the differences between the B-cell aplasia and B-cell recovery (BCR) groups. Results: Of the 59 pre- and post-infusion infections, 39 (66.1%) led to mild COVID-19, 9 (15.3%) resulted in moderate COVID-19, 10 (16.9%) resulted in severe COVID-19, and 1 (1.7%) led to critical COVID-19. Moroever, age greater than 55 years, having received autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, progressive disease status, and B-cell aplasia at the time of diagnosis of COVID-19 infection are factors affecting severe infection. Patients with B-cell aplasia had a more severe infection with COVID-19 (P<0.001), a longer duration (P=0.015), a longer antiviral therapy course (P<0.001), and a higher hospitalization rate (P<0.001) than the BCR group. Conclusion: Active prevention and treatment of COVID-19 infection remains a crucial issue requiring urgent attention in managing patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated with chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy.

Nanometer flat blazed x-ray gratings using ion beam figure correction

With the development of nanometer accuracy stitching interferometry, ion beam figuring (IBF) of x-ray mirrors can now be achieved with unprecedented performance. However, the process of producing x-ray diffraction gratings on these surfaces may degrade the figure quality due to process errors introduced during the ruling of the grating grooves. To address this challenge, we have investigated the post-production correction of gratings using IBF, where stitching interferometry is used to provide in-process feedback. A concern with ion beam correction in this case is that ions will induce enough surface mobility of atoms to cause smoothing of the grating structure and degradation of diffraction efficiency. In this study we found however that it is possible to achieve a nanometer-level planarity of the global grating surface with IBF, while preserving the grating structure. The preservation was so good, that we could not detect a change in the diffraction efficiency after ion beam correction. This is of major importance in achieving ultra-high spectral resolution, and the preservation of brightness for coherent x-ray beams.

Potential Predictive Value of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Magnetic Resonance for Xerostomia of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Xerostomia, caused by radiation-induced parotid damage, is the most commonly reported complications of radiotherapy (RT) to nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aimed to evaluate the value of IVIM MR in monitoring radiation parotid gland damage and predicting the risk of xerostomia.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 54 patients were enrolled and underwent IVIM MR scans at before RT, after the fifth fraction, halfway through the course of RT, and at the end of radiotherapy. The parameters of IVIM MR include pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D*), perfusion fraction (f), and pure diffusion coefficient (D). The degree of xerostomia in NPC patients was assessed before each MR examination using the acute radiation morbidity scoring criteria proposed by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG). Concurrently, the time when the patient first reported suffering from xerostomia was recorded. The IVIM parameters trend throughout the RT, and the relationships between IVIM parameters and xerostomia, were analyzed.

RESULTS

All of the IVIM parameters increased from pre-RT to post-RT significantly (all p < 0.001). The increase rate of D from pre-RT to halfway through the RT was 32.61%, which was significantly higher than 15.64% from halfway to post-RT (p<0.001), indicating that cell necrosis in the first half of treatment is significantly higher than that in the second half. Both D* and F had significantly increased from pre-RT to halfway through the radiotherapy (p<0.001), with an increase rate of 19.58% and 29.38%, respectively. However, no significant increase was observed from Halfway to post-RT (p>0.05), with an increase rate of 4.10% and 8.30%, respectively. This may be due to radiation-induced vasculitic dilation that is significant in the first half of the radiotherapy but plateaus in the second half. Pre-D (OR = 23.85; 95% CI = 2.39, 237.82; p = .007) and pre-D* (OR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.63, 0.91; p = 0.003) are independent influencing factors for xerostomia at 3 months after the completion of RT. D and F were significantly higher after the fifth fraction compared with Pre-RT (both p<0.05), respectively increased 31.25% and 25.16%. D* increase by 15% (p = 0.081). IVIM scans can assess parotid gland damage early. And the average time of parotid damage underwent IVIM scan was 5.99 ± 0.84 (day), much earlier than 11.84 ± 2.74 (day) according to RTOG.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that IVIM MR can dynamically monitor radiotherapy-induced parotid gland damage, and much earlier and objectively than RTOG.

[Impact of different diagnostic criteria for assessing mild micro-hepatic encephalopathy in liver cirrhosis: an analysis based on a prospective, multicenter, real-world study]

Objective: To compare the differences in the prevalence of mild micro-hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) among patients with cirrhosis by using the psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) and the Stroop smartphone application (Encephal App) test. Methods: This prospective, multi-center, real-world study was initiated by the National Clinical Medical Research Center for Infectious Diseases and the Portal Hypertension Alliance and registered with International ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05140837). 354 cases of cirrhosis were enrolled in 19 hospitals across the country. PHES (including digital connection tests A and B, digital symbol tests, trajectory drawing tests, and serial management tests) and the Stroop test were conducted in all of them. PHES was differentiated using standard diagnostic criteria established by the two studies in China and South Korea. The Stroop test was evaluated based on the criteria of the research and development team. The impact of different diagnostic standards or methods on the incidence of MHE in patients with cirrhosis was analyzed. Data between groups were differentiated using the t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and χ (2) test. A kappa test was used to compare the consistency between groups. Results: After PHES, the prevalence of MHE among 354 cases of cirrhosis was 78.53% and 15.25%, respectively, based on Chinese research standards and Korean research normal value standards. However, the prevalence of MHE was 56.78% based on the Stroop test, and the differences in pairwise comparisons among the three groups were statistically significant (kappa = -0.064, P < 0.001). Stratified analysis revealed that the MHE prevalence in three groups of patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C was 74.14%, 83.33%, and 88.24%, respectively, according to the normal value standards of Chinese researchers, while the MHE prevalence rates in three groups of patients with Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C were 8.29%, 23.53%, and 38.24%, respectively, according to the normal value standards of Korean researchers. Furthermore, the prevalence rates of MHE in the three groups of patients with Child-Pugh grades A, B, and C were 52.68%, 58.82%, and 73.53%, respectively, according to the Stroop test standard. However, among the results of each diagnostic standard, the prevalence of MHE showed an increasing trend with an increasing Child-Pugh grade. Further comparison demonstrated that the scores obtained by the number connection test A and the number symbol test were consistent according to the normal value standards of the two studies in China and South Korea (Z = -0.982, -1.702; P = 0.326, 0.089), while the other three sub-tests had significant differences (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence rate of MHE in the cirrhotic population is high, but the prevalence of MHE obtained by using different diagnostic criteria or methods varies greatly. Therefore, in line with the current changes in demographics and disease spectrum, it is necessary to enroll a larger sample size of a healthy population as a control. Moreover, the establishment of more reliable diagnostic scoring criteria will serve as a basis for obtaining accurate MHE incidence and formulating diagnosis and treatment strategies in cirrhotic populations.

Recent theranostic applications of hydrogen peroxide-responsive nanomaterials for multiple diseases

It is well established that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is associated with the initiation and progression of many diseases. With the rapid development of nanotechnology, the diagnosis and treatment of those diseases could be realized through a variety of H2O2-responsive nanomaterials. In order to broaden the application prospects of H2O2-responsive nanomaterials and promote their development, understanding and summarizing the design and application fields of such materials has attracted much attention. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the types of H2O2-responsive nanomaterials including organic, inorganic and organic-inorganic hybrids in recent years, and focused on their specific design and applications. Based on the type of disease, such as tumors, bacteria, dental diseases, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, bone injury and so on, key examples for above disease imaging diagnosis and therapy strategies are introduced. In addition, current challenges and the outlook of H2O2-responsive nanomaterials are also discussed. This review aims to stimulate the potential of H2O2-responsive nanomaterials and provide new application ideas for various functional nanomaterials related to H2O2.

Meta-analysis of the impact of physical activity on the recovery of physical function in COVID-19 patients

Background

The decrease in physical function resulting from COVID-19 infection exerts a substantial negative influence on the quality of life of individuals. Physical activity plays a crucial and irreplaceable role in hastening the elimination of adverse effects on the body caused by acute and chronic diseases. Nevertheless, there have been reports of unfavorable events following physical activity post-COVID-19 infection, sparking debate regarding the efficacy of physical activity as a rehabilitation method to enhance the physical function of COVID-19 patients.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of physical activity on promoting the restoration of physical function among individuals with COVID-19, and to offer guidance for the advancement and consideration of physical activity in the rehabilitation treatment of COVID-19 patients.

Methods

A search was conducted on the PubMed and Web of Science core collection databases, with the search period set from January 1, 2020, to February 6, 2023. The included literature was assessed for risk of bias and methodological quality according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, utilizing Review Manager 5.1 software. The outcome measures from the included studies were analyzed, and the quality of evidence for the outcome measures was graded using the GRADE classification criteria.

Results

The effect of physical activity intervention on improving the 6-Minute Walk Test score in COVID-19 patients was better than that of conventional treatment [WMD = 69.19(95%CI = 39.38, 98.99), I2 = 57%(p = 0.03)]. The effect of physical activity on improving the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test score was better than that of conventional treatment [WMD = 2.98(95%CI = 1.91, 4.04), I2 = 0%(p = 0.56)]. There was no significant difference between physical activity and conventional treatment in improving Grip strength in COVID-19 patients [WMD = 2.35(95%CI = -0.49, 5.20), I2 = 0%(p = 0.80)]. The effect of physical activity on improving the Timed Up and Go test score in COVID-19 patients was better than that of conventional treatment [WMD = -1.16(95%CI = -1.98, -0.34), I2 = 4%(p = 0.35)]. The effect of physical activity on improving Forced Vital Capacity in COVID-19 patients was better than that of conventional treatment [WMD = 0.14(95%CI = 0.08, 0.21), I2 = 0%(p = 0.45)]. The effect of physical activity on improving Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second in COVID-19 patients was better than that of conventional treatment [WMD = 0.08(95%CI = 0.02, 0.15), I2 = 52%(p = 0.10)].

Conclusions

Physical activity plays a crucial role in facilitating the recovery of exercise capacity and pulmonary function in COVID-19 patients, helping to expedite the restoration of overall physical health. It is crucial for COVID-19 patients to undergo an accurate assessment of their physical condition before engaging in any physical activity.