Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a major health burden, particularly in Asia, with poor patient prognosis despite advancements in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The ma Show more
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a major health burden, particularly in Asia, with poor patient prognosis despite advancements in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The marked inter-patient and intra-tumor heterogeneity of ESCC underscores the need for molecularly informed diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Recent high-throughput omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have substantially advanced our understanding of ESCC biology. Genomic profiling has revealed recurrent alterations such as TP53 and NOTCH1 mutations, as well as actionable targets including PIK3CA, FGFR1, and SOX2 amplifications, which provide new opportunities for precision therapy. Epigenomic and transcriptomic analyses have identified methylation-based early detection markers (e.g., PAX9, SIM2) and immune-related transcriptomic subtypes associated with prognosis and immunotherapy responsiveness. Proteomic and metabolomic studies have further uncovered cell cycle and spliceosome pathway activation and altered lactate metabolism, offering additional biomarker and therapeutic insights. In this review, we synthesize these multi-omics advances and highlight how they collectively inform improved diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic strategies for ESCC. Despite these developments, the clinical translation of multi-omics findings remains limited due to the lack of standardized analytical pipelines, insufficient multi-center validation, and the high cost and technical complexity of integrating multi-omics data into routine clinical workflows. Future research integrating artificial intelligence with multi-omics data holds promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and enabling more precise therapeutic decision-making in ESCC. Show less
Abnormalities in protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are one of the primary drivers of cancer. As a receptor subfamily, fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) comprise four subtypes-FGFR1 to FGFR4. Th Show more
Abnormalities in protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are one of the primary drivers of cancer. As a receptor subfamily, fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) comprise four subtypes-FGFR1 to FGFR4. Their abnormal intracellular expression is a significant cause of tumorigenesis, making FGFRs key therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. This paper primarily summarizes the latest research advances in FGFR inhibitors, aiming to provide insights for future design and synthesis studies of FGFR inhibitors. Show less
The role of FGF is the least understood of the morphogens driving mammalian gastrulation. Here, we have investigated FGF function in a 2D gastruloid model for human gastrulation. We observed a ring of Show more
The role of FGF is the least understood of the morphogens driving mammalian gastrulation. Here, we have investigated FGF function in a 2D gastruloid model for human gastrulation. We observed a ring of FGF-dependent ERK activity that closely follows the emergence of primitive streak (PS)-like cells but expands further inward. This ERK activity pattern depends on localized activation of basolateral FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) by endogenous FGF gradients and is required for PS-like differentiation, with loss of PS-like cells upon FGF receptor inhibition rescued by direct ERK activation. Single cell transcriptome analysis confirmed that, among the ligands, FGF2 is broadly expressed, FGF8 is transiently expressed during PS-like differentiation and FGF4/17 are specifically expressed in PS-like cells - similar to the human and monkey embryo but different from the mouse. FGF4 knockdown greatly reduced PS-like differentiation, while FGF17 knockdown primarily affected subsequent mesoderm differentiation. FGF8 expression was spatially and temporally displaced from PS markers and FGF4 expression, while knockdown expanded PS-like cells, suggesting FGF8 may limit PS-like differentiation. Thus, we have identified a previously unreported role for FGF-dependent ERK signaling in 2D gastruloids and possibly the human embryo, where FGF4 and FGF17 signal through basolateral FGFR1 to induce PS-like cells and derivatives, potentially restricted by FGF8. Show less
Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment co Show more
Focal articular cartilage defects often progress to osteoarthritis, imposing a substantial global health burden. Current neglect of cartilage developmental regulation and cartilage microenvironment compromises therapeutic efficacy. We developed an innovation CE-SKP/CPH/P2G3 scaffold which effectively repairs focal cartilage defects and emulates native cartilage ontogeny: the superficial CE-SKP hydrogel layer recruits SMSCs and promotes chondrogenesis; the middle CPH hydrogel layer induces chondrocyte hypertrophic calcification, forming cartilage calcified layer; and the basal P2G3 nanofiber membrane isolates subchondral cells, enforcing a top-down developmental sequence and preserving a localized hypoxic niche. Show less
Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression (MYE) remains a major dose-limiting toxicity that severely compromises treatment efficacy and patient outcomes, while effective therapeutic agents are still lacki Show more
Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression (MYE) remains a major dose-limiting toxicity that severely compromises treatment efficacy and patient outcomes, while effective therapeutic agents are still lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of 20(S)-protopanaxadiol-human serum albumin nanoparticles (20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs) on cyclophosphamide-induced MYE and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs were characterized by electron microscopy, particle size, zeta potential, drug loading, and encapsulation efficiency. A cyclophosphamide-induced MYE mouse model was established. Hematopoietic recovery was evaluated via blood counts, ELISA for granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), and flow cytometry for Lin The 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs exhibited a uniform nanostructure and excellent drug delivery performance. In vivo, the 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs significantly alleviated cyclophosphamide-induced hematopoietic dysfunction, restored the structure of bone marrow and spleen tissues, and markedly increased the number of LSK cells, with their therapeutic effect being independent of elevated G-CSF levels. Further studies demonstrated that the 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs activated the FGFR1/ERK signaling pathway, an effect that was partially blocked by FGFR1 or ERK inhibitors. In vitro, 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs promoted the proliferation of OP9 cells and murine splenic stromal cells, inhibited apoptosis, DNA damage, and cellular senescence, and upregulated SCF and SDF-1 expression via activation of the FGFR1/ERK pathway. Co-culture experiments further confirmed that the NPs improved the hematopoietic microenvironment and enhanced the stromal cells' hematopoietic support function. 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs effectively enhanced medullary and extramedullary hematopoietic functions in cyclophosphamide-induced MYE mice by activating the FGFR1/ERK pathway, independent of increased G-CSF levels. These findings highlight 20(S)-PPD-HSA NPs as a promising therapeutic strategy for chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression. Show less
Pemigatinib is a selective, potent, orally administered inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)1-3 with antitumor activity in multiple solid tumors. Pemigatinib is used to treat adults w Show more
Pemigatinib is a selective, potent, orally administered inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)1-3 with antitumor activity in multiple solid tumors. Pemigatinib is used to treat adults with previously treated metastatic or surgically unresectable cholangiocarcinoma with Show less
Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic infectious condition affecting the oral cavity. This research was conducted to analyze the role of GATA6 in LPS-stimulated human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs Show more
Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic infectious condition affecting the oral cavity. This research was conducted to analyze the role of GATA6 in LPS-stimulated human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs). Dysregulated genes associated with periodontitis were acquired from the GEO database (GSE23586). Cell viability was measured utilizing the MTT assay, while apoptosis was analyzed through flow cytometry. The expression levels of mRNA and proteins were examined using qRT-PCR and Western blot techniques, respectively. Levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were measured using specific ELISA kits. The mouse periodontitis model was established to evaluate the effect of GATA transcription factor 6 (GATA6) in vivo.The results demonstrated that GATA6 was downregulated in periodontitis and LPS-stimulated hPDLCs. Overexpression of GATA6 enhanced cell viability, while inhibited apoptosis in hPDLCs. It also reduced the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated hPDLCs. Additionally, after transfection with a GATA6 overexpression vector, the expressions of Caspase 3 and Bax proteins were suppressed, while Bcl2 was upregulated. Furthermore, in LPS-stimulated hPDLCs, the protein levels of Notch1, Hey1, and Hey2 were enhanced after GATA6 overexpression. Silencing of Notch1 neutralized the effects of GATA6 in LPS-stimulated hPDLCs. In addition, GATA6 overexpression alleviated the progression of periodontitis in vivo. In conclusion, GATA6 alleviated the progression of periodontitis by activating the Notch signaling pathway. Show less
The yellow oil crab is a highly valuable aquatic species, with the accumulation of nutritional and flavor compounds closely linked to the degree of gonadal degeneration. However, the molecular mechani Show more
The yellow oil crab is a highly valuable aquatic species, with the accumulation of nutritional and flavor compounds closely linked to the degree of gonadal degeneration. However, the molecular mechanisms of gonadal degeneration remain unclear. In this study, we analyzed the differences in gene expression and metabolite accumulation across three gonadal degeneration stages (QX, GX, and TSX) in yellow oil crab using transcriptome and non-targeted metabolomics approaches, and identified key genes and metabolites involved. A total of 240 differential accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified, most of which were significantly more highly accumulated in GX and TSX than in QX. K-means clustering analysis of DAMs and gene expression data revealed distinct stage-specific expression patterns from QX to TSX stage. Moreover, the “steroid hormone biosynthesis” pathway was significantly enriched, with 15 highly expressed steroid hormones and their derivatives in GX and TSX. 7 types of key genes involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis (such as Therefore, the identified differential steroid hormones and seven key genes were positively associated with gonadal degeneration in yellow oil crab. These results offer a theoretical basis for understanding the formation and aquaculture of the yellow oil crab. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-026-12597-y. Show less
The high prevalence of cancer immunotherapy resistance, coupled with substantial tumor heterogeneity, underscores the urgent need for innovative therapeutic targets. A deeper understanding of immunore Show more
The high prevalence of cancer immunotherapy resistance, coupled with substantial tumor heterogeneity, underscores the urgent need for innovative therapeutic targets. A deeper understanding of immunoregulatory mechanisms would provide new targets and combination therapeutic strategies for tumor therapy. In this study, we demonstrate that HSD17B12 enhances anti-tumor immunity and represents a promising therapeutic target. Mechanistically, HSD17B12 promotes lysosome-dependent degradation of PD-L1 via the VAC14 and ESCRT complexes across various malignancies, regardless of its 3-ketoacyl-CoA reductase activity. HSD17B12-deficient cells displayed PD-L1 accumulation in both tumor cells and exosomes, reducing T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Notably, we found a significant negative correlation between HSD17B12 and PD-L1 expression in colorectal cancer tissues. Furthermore, high HSD17B12 expression in CRC correlated with increased infiltration of cytotoxic T cells. Based on these findings, we designed a peptide, HSD-CC1-NPGY, which effectively reduces PD-L1 expression in cells and suppresses tumor growth in a mouse model. Overall, our results establish HSD17B12 as an important regulator of anti-tumor immunity and a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Show less
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is still a leading cause of death due to infection globally, yet precise severity assessment remains a significant clinical problem. More than any other group of cyt Show more
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is still a leading cause of death due to infection globally, yet precise severity assessment remains a significant clinical problem. More than any other group of cytokines, interleukins are central to the regulation of inflammation and shed light on this intricate pathology. In the present review we summarize the biological and clinical characteristics of some of the principal interleukins (ILs) in CAP, classified primarily according to their physiological activity as pro-inflammatory (IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-12), anti-inflammatory (IL-7, IL-10 and IL-37), dual-action (IL-4 and IL-17), and emerging factors (IL-3, IL-27 and IL-33). Additionally, recent multimodal approaches are discussed such as combining cytokines with organ dysfunction parameters (MR-proADM) or revealing host-response patterns to inform antibiotic and corticosteroid management. We propose that the field needs to transition to immunological endotyping, multi-omics (integrating genetics and lung microbiome), and artificial intelligence (AI) models based on dynamic patient data to achieve precision medicine in CAP management. Show less
Probiotics such as The intestinal colonization ability of CIQ249 was assessed using cFDA-SE labeling and flow cytometry. Growth performance and intestinal morphology were evaluated in mice. Antimicrob Show more
Probiotics such as The intestinal colonization ability of CIQ249 was assessed using cFDA-SE labeling and flow cytometry. Growth performance and intestinal morphology were evaluated in mice. Antimicrobial activity of CIQ249 cell-free supernatant was tested against various pathogens, and pathogen damage was visualized by scanning electron microscopy. Protective effects against CIQ249 demonstrated strong intestinal colonization and increased villus height and the villus-to-crypt ratio, contributing to improved growth performance. Its cell-free supernatant selectively inhibited enteropathogens and induced structural damage in CIQ249 enhances mucosal defense against enteropathogenic bacteria through a dual mechanism-strengthening the epithelial barrier and activating a coordinated DC-Tfh-IgA immune axis. These findings provide a multi-level mechanistic basis for its application as a microecological agent against intestinal infections. Show less
Insulin resistance (IR), commonly associated with obesity, is linked to a range of metabolic and immune-related disorders in the contemporary human population. Nevertheless, it is evolutionary well-co Show more
Insulin resistance (IR), commonly associated with obesity, is linked to a range of metabolic and immune-related disorders in the contemporary human population. Nevertheless, it is evolutionary well-conserved, suggesting its potential survival advantages to our ancestors. This review aims to explore the intricate interplay between IR and the immune system as well as its implications for the development of immune-metabolic and allergic diseases in the modern era. From an evolutionary medicine perspective, the longevity of ancient humans relied on energy storage to endure food shortages and effectively activate the immune system against various diseases. Under normal conditions, insulin induces glycogen and triglyceride synthesis in the liver and adipose tissues. However, IR directs more glucose to insulin-independent tissues, such as the immune system, which are critical for survival in adverse conditions. The persistent IR in our current lifestyle promotes low-grade inflammation, accompanied by various metabolic and allergic disorders. Critically, this evolutionary mismatch not only explains disease susceptibility but also informs therapeutic design to target immune-metabolic crosstalk. Moreover, our evolutionary analysis demonstrates that the genomic regions near the PTEN, IL27, and NUPR1 genes could play an important role in this interaction across diverse populations. Show less
Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) are two prevalent inflammatory skin disorders, each characterized by distinct adaptive immune responses. However, recent evidence suggests that these diseases may Show more
Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) are two prevalent inflammatory skin disorders, each characterized by distinct adaptive immune responses. However, recent evidence suggests that these diseases may share overlapping immune mechanisms, especially concerning keratinocyte function. The specific cytokines that coordinate these inflammatory pathways remain largely undefined. The expression of IL-27 and its receptor was analyzed using data derived from GEO datasets. Imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like and MC903-induced AD-like skin inflammation models were established in wild-type and Il27ra knockout littermates. Skin inflammation was evaluated using clinical scoring, histology, and immunostaining. Flow cytometry was employed to characterize immune cell populations in skin. Expression of relevant cytokines and signaling molecules was assessed using quantitative PCR, bulk RNA sequencing, and Western blotting. We found significantly elevated expression of the IL-27 receptor in the lesional skin of patients with psoriasis or AD. IL-27 receptor-deficient mice exhibited markedly reduced skin inflammation in both psoriasis-like and AD-like murine models. Mechanistic investigations revealed that IL-27 induces tumor necrosis factor-α production via signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 activation in keratinocytes, thereby potentiating inflammatory responses. Our findings identify IL-27 signaling in keratinocytes as a pivotal regulator of skin inflammation in both psoriasis and AD. This highlights IL-27 as a promising therapeutic target for inflammatory skin diseases. Show less
Pathological ocular neovascularization is closely linked to aberrant histone modifications, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigates the role of the Show more
Pathological ocular neovascularization is closely linked to aberrant histone modifications, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely defined. This study investigates the role of the histone demethylase JMJD1C and its encoding gene Jmjd1c in driving pathological angiogenesis and evaluates its therapeutic potential in ocular proliferative vascular diseases. Jmjd1c expression was examined in mouse models of ocular neovascularization and in endothelial cells (ECs) using immunostaining, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting. The pro-angiogenic functions of JMJD1C were assessed through EdU incorporation, Transwell migration, tube-formation, and spheroid-sprouting assays in vitro, as well as retinal flat-mount isolectin-B4 staining and H&E staining in vivo. RNA sequencing, immunostaining, qPCR, Western blotting, and ChIP-qPCR were employed to dissect the molecular mechanisms by which JMJD1C regulates pathological angiogenesis. Endothelial-specific deletion of Jmjd1c markedly reduced pathological neovascularization in both oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) models. Loss of JMJD1C impaired endothelial cell proliferation, migration, tube formation, and sprouting angiogenesis. Mechanistically, Jmjd1c deletion suppressed Srebf2 transcription and cholesterol biosynthesis by increasing repressive H3K9me2 histone marks in endothelial cells. Pharmacological inhibition of JMJD1C similarly attenuated neovascularization in wild-type mice. JMJD1C acts as a key regulator of pathological ocular angiogenesis through histone demethylation-mediated control of endothelial cholesterol biosynthesis. These findings establish JMJD1C and the Jmjd1c-Srebf2 regulatory axis as promising therapeutic targets for ocular vascular diseases. Show less
Tianshu Liu, Yiting Cai · 2026 · Orphanet journal of rare diseases · BioMed Central · added 2026-04-24
To investigate the genetic causality between Human blood cell (HBC) traits and sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis (sLAM) by mediation joint multi-omics and eQTL Mendelian randomization analysis. Qualit Show more
To investigate the genetic causality between Human blood cell (HBC) traits and sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis (sLAM) by mediation joint multi-omics and eQTL Mendelian randomization analysis. Quality control processes were followed to select eligible instrumental variables strongly associated with 35 kinds of HBC traits. Independent cohort of European ancestry with sLAM and lung function genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics were used separately. We utilized a two-step MR approach to explore potential mediators and evaluate the proportion of effect mediated in the associations linking HBC trait candidates to sLAM. Finally MR analysis integrating single cell expression quantitative trait loci (sc-eQTL) from 14 immune cell types with GWAS of sLAM was conducted. Increased level of basophil count was positively associated with higher risk of sLAM (BASO#; OR = 3.878, 95%CI:1.137–13.221, For the first time, this study leverages mediation analysis and multi-omics MR integrated with sc-eQTL data to elucidate the roles of HBC traits, immune cells, inflammatory proteins, VEGF-related proteins and immune cell-specific genes in the pathogenesis of sLAM among the European populations. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-026-04224-6. Show less
Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to c Show more
Fusion genes are pivotal drivers of tumorigenesis, often generating oncogenic chimeric RNAs and fusion circular RNAs. However, the mechanisms by which these transcripts synergistically contribute to cancer progression remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a lung cancer-specific chimeric RNA KANSL1-ARL17A (chKANSARL) and its circular variant fusion circular RNA KANSL1-ARL17 A (F-circKA), both derived from the fusion gene KANSARL. Functional assays revealed that overexpression of either chKANSARL or F-circKA significantly enhanced lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while their knockdown suppressed these malignant phenotypes. In vivo experiments demonstrated that chKANSARL overexpression accelerated tumor growth in immunodeficient mice. Notably, coexpression experiments uncovered a synergistic regulatory interaction between F-circKA and chKANSARL, amplifying oncogenic effects. Mechanistically, miRNA sequencing and dual-luciferase assays revealed that F-circKA acts as a molecular sponge for miR-6860, thereby derepressing chKANSARL expression. Rescue experiments further validated this regulatory axis, wherein miR-6860 inhibition reversed the tumor-suppressive effects of F-circKA knockdown. Collectively, our study identifies and characterizes a novel F-circKA/miR-6860/chKANSARL regulatory axis, revealing how dual transcriptional outputs from the KANSARL fusion gene can synergistically drive lung cancer progression. These findings highlight a previously unrecognized layer of cooperative regulation between linear and circular fusion RNAs in oncogenesis and provide a new framework for understanding fusion gene-mediated tumorigenesis. Show less
Colorectal cancer (CRC) shows strong heterogeneity in tumor microenvironment (TME) dynamics, but the mechanisms that shape epithelial-stromal crosstalk are still unclear. Here we focus on A-kinase anc Show more
Colorectal cancer (CRC) shows strong heterogeneity in tumor microenvironment (TME) dynamics, but the mechanisms that shape epithelial-stromal crosstalk are still unclear. Here we focus on A-kinase anchor protein 12 (AKAP12) and Leiomodin 1 (LMOD1) and test a compartment-dependent model in which this program aligns with tight-junction features in epithelium but with a fibrotic, immune-suppressive program in stroma. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) were employed to profile gene expression patterns in CRC tissues. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) validated protein expression and localization. Cell-cell communication analysis and trajectory inference were used to dissect spatial interaction networks. Functional experiments were employed to validate the role of the AKAP12-LMOD1 axis in CAFs in regulating ECM remodeling and antitumor immunity. AKAP12-LMOD1 exhibited a compartment-dependent pattern in CRC. In ACTA2⁻ epithelial regions, the epithelial AKAP12-LMOD1 signal was lower in tumors than in matched normal epithelium and showed a positive association with the tight-junction marker CLDN1. In ACTA2⁺ stromal regions, AKAP12-LMOD1 was enriched, positively associated with the gap-junction marker GJA4, and higher in tumor stroma than matched normal stroma. In a CAF-macrophage non-contact co-culture model, AKAP12 overexpression supported CAF activation and collagen deposition, and shifted macrophages toward an M2-like phenotype; LMOD1 knockdown or SB-431542 partially reversed these effects. Stromal AKAP12-LMOD1-enriched regions also aligned with fibrosis- and M2-related features, and these stromal patterns were prominent in mucinous carcinoma. This study defines AKAP12-LMOD1 as a compartment-dependent stromal program in CRC that links ACTA2⁺ stroma to gap-junction features, fibrosis, and M2-like macrophage polarization, while showing a distinct epithelial association with tight-junction features. These findings support a stroma-centered working model for AKAP12-LMOD1 in CRC microenvironmental heterogeneity and suggest that stromal modulation of this program, together with targeting fibrosis and M2-like immune features, may be explored as hypothesis-level, subtype-oriented therapeutic directions in stroma-rich CRC. Show less
Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a life-threatening vascular disease with high fatality upon rupture. While physical activity (PA) reduces cardiovascular risk, its role in AA prevention remains uncertain, part Show more
Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a life-threatening vascular disease with high fatality upon rupture. While physical activity (PA) reduces cardiovascular risk, its role in AA prevention remains uncertain, particularly when assessed objectively. We analyzed 93,165 UK Biobank participants (56% women; median age 57 years) with valid 7-day wrist-worn accelerometer data. PA was categorized as light (LPA), moderate (MPA), vigorous (VPA), and moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA). Diagnosed AA was ascertained through linked hospital, death, and primary care records. Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for AA across quartiles and per-standard deviation (SD) increments, with adjustment for demographic, lifestyle, and cardiometabolic factors. Over a median 7.9-year follow-up, 499 clinically recorded AA cases occurred. Higher accelerometer-measured PA was inversely associated with AA risk. Per-SD increments in total PA, MPA, VPA, and MVPA corresponded to 17%, 22%, 19%, and 23% lower risks, respectively. Compared with the lowest quartile, the highest MVPA quartile had a 44% lower AA risk (HR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.42-0.76). Subtype analyses revealed stronger protective effects for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) than thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), while LPA was not significantly associated. These findings demonstrate that higher levels of accelerometer-measured MVPA are robustly associated with a decreased risk of clinically detected AA in a dose-dependent manner. The associations were particularly pronounced for AAA. This study provides objective evidence supporting the potential benefits of MVPA for aortic health. Show less
The non-high-density lipoprotein to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) has emerged as a comprehensive lipid index reflecting the balance between atherogenic and anti-atherogenic lipopro Show more
The non-high-density lipoprotein to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHHR) has emerged as a comprehensive lipid index reflecting the balance between atherogenic and anti-atherogenic lipoproteins. However, evidence on how different intensities and durations of physical activity (PA) influence NHHR remains scarce, particularly in aging populations. Data were obtained from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. PA was self-reported and categorized as high- (HPA), moderate- (MPA), or low-intensity (LPA). Multivariable linear regression models assessed associations between PA and NHHR, with subgroup, sensitivity, and dose-response analyses further exploring robustness. Cox regression and mediation analyses examined the associations of PA and NHHR with 10-year all-cause mortality. Higher levels of total, moderate-, and high-intensity PA were significantly associated with lower NHHR. The results were generally consistent with a graded pattern, with lower NHHR observed at higher activity durations, particularly for moderate-to-vigorous activity. Exploratory mediation analyses suggested that NHHR may partially account for the inverse association between PA and mortality. This study adds large-scale, population-based evidence on the associations between different PA intensities and NHHR. Regular moderate-to-vigorous PA is associated with more favorable lipid profiles and lower mortality risk. These findings highlight NHHR as a valuable biomarker linking physical activity to cardiometabolic health and longevity in middle-aged and older adults. Show less
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, includ Show more
Despite of the highly potent antiretroviral therapies, HIV-1 establishes persistent infection and causes chronic inflammation in AIDS patients. Beyond CD4+ T cells, HIV-1 infects myeloid cells, including circulating monocytes and tissue-resident macrophages, and integrates with host genomes to form stable viral reservoirs. To achieve a functional HIV cure, latency-promoting agents (LPAs) have been developed for the "block-and-lock" strategy to reinforce deep HIV-1 latency and permanently silence proviruses. However, most LPAs have been tested mainly in CD4 Show less
University students exhibit high rates of mental health problems alongside a significant gap between their physical activity (PA) intentions and actual behavior. To understand the psychological hetero Show more
University students exhibit high rates of mental health problems alongside a significant gap between their physical activity (PA) intentions and actual behavior. To understand the psychological heterogeneity within this intention-behavior gap (IBG) in high-pressure academic environments, a person-centered approach is essential. The present study aimed to identify distinct psychological profiles of students based on key self-regulatory constructs related to PA and to examine how these profiles longitudinally predict changes in mental health over an academic semester. A two-wave longitudinal survey was conducted with a cohort of 850 university students during the post-pandemic return to campus life, situated within a high-achieving Chinese higher education context. At baseline (T1), PA intention, action and coping planning, self-efficacy, maladaptive perfectionism, and procrastination were measured. At both T1 and the end of the semester (T2), PA behavior (IPAQ-SF) and mental health outcomes, including depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and academic burnout (SBI) were assessed. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was employed to identify distinct profiles from the T1 psychological data. Longitudinal regression models were then used to test the predictive validity of these profiles on T2 mental health, controlling for T1 baseline mental health, demographic covariates, and critically, T1 baseline PA behavior. LPA revealed four distinct profiles: "Effective Planners" (25.0%), "Ambitious Procrastinators" (30.0%), "Cautious Doers" (24.9%), and "Indifferent & Sedentary" (20.1%). The "Ambitious Procrastinators" exhibited the largest intention-behavior gap. Even after controlling for baseline PA behavior, membership in this profile significantly predicted greater increases in depression ( The physical activity intention-behavior gap is not a monolithic phenomenon, and the "Ambitious Procrastinators" represent a particularly vulnerable subgroup. Findings suggest that university wellness programs should move beyond generic motivational campaigns and instead deliver tailored, skill-based interventions**, such as specific cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation, **targeting the specific self-regulatory deficits of these high-risk students. Show less
The purposes of this study were to identify different psychological capital subtypes among college students through latent profile analysis (LPA) and to explore the associations of psychological capit Show more
The purposes of this study were to identify different psychological capital subtypes among college students through latent profile analysis (LPA) and to explore the associations of psychological capital subtypes, internet usage duration and physical exercise frequency with on both depression and anxiety. Cross-sectional study design was implemented. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the "Questionnaire Star" platform. The questionnaires of Psychological Capital Scale, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 were administered to 1089 college students from a university in Zhengzhou, China. Latent profile analysis was applied to identify latent subtypes of psychological capital. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to investigate the associations of psychological capital subtypes with both depression and anxiety. Three psychological capital latent profiles were identified: low self-efficacy (11.7%), moderate (57.8%), and high psychological capital (30.5%) in Chinese college students. High psychological capital group showed significantly higher scores of self-efficacy, resilience, hope, and optimism than other two groups (P < 0.001). Internet usage time and physical exercise frequency exhibited positive associations with psychological capital subtypes. Compared with the low self-efficacy group, the moderate and high latent groups had significantly lower scores of both depression and anxiety. Older students had higher scores of both depression and anxiety than younger. Three latent profiles, low self-efficacy, moderate, and high psychological capital, were identified in Chinese college students. Self-efficacy is the key dimension distinguishing between the different subtypes. Adequate internet use and physical exercise frequency improved psychological capital profile. High psychological capital levels effectively reduced the scores of both depression and anxiety. Show less
Jianlei Liu, Yaling Cui, Hongyu Wang+2 more · 2026 · Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society · Blackwell Publishing · added 2026-04-24
With global population aging, the number of older adults in Chinese nursing homes is rising rapidly, and depression is the most prevalent mental health problem in this population. Most previous studie Show more
With global population aging, the number of older adults in Chinese nursing homes is rising rapidly, and depression is the most prevalent mental health problem in this population. Most previous studies assessed depression via total scale scores, ignoring individual heterogeneity of depressive symptoms. This study aimed to identify distinct depressive symptom profiles and their associated factors in this population. Data were derived from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), with 353 valid nursing home older adults included. Depressive symptoms, anxiety and functional status were assessed using the CESD-10, GAD-7 and IADL scales. Latent profile analysis (LPA), univariate tests and multinomial logistic regression were performed, with supplementary effect size and sensitivity analyses to verify result robustness. Three distinct depressive symptom profiles were identified: low level (39%, n = 135), medium level (52%, n = 187) and high level (9%, n = 31). Town residence and anxiety were risk factors for moderate depression, while good self-rated health, regular exercise and social activity participation were protective factors. Good self-rated health protected against severe depression, while occasional television/radio viewing and anxiety were risk factors. Anxiety was the only independent correlate of high-level versus medium-level depression (OR = 1.322, p < 0.001). Supplementary analyses confirmed the robustness of core findings. The CESD-10, as a screening tool, has limited diagnostic efficacy for clinical depression, and the cross-sectional design cannot confirm causal relationships. Depressive symptoms in Chinese nursing home older adults show significant heterogeneity with three distinct latent profiles. Early screening and targeted stratified interventions should be implemented for this population to improve quality of life and promote healthy aging. Show less
Obesity results from the interaction of polygenic susceptibility and environmental factors. Given this complex etiology, physical activity (PA) remains a cornerstone of cost-effective intervention str Show more
Obesity results from the interaction of polygenic susceptibility and environmental factors. Given this complex etiology, physical activity (PA) remains a cornerstone of cost-effective intervention strategies. This longitudinal natural experiment investigated how PA modifies the effects of genetic predisposition on obesity in Chinese youth. We conducted a 4-year natural experiment leveraging curriculum-driven PA disparities in a specialized arts school (n = 591), creating distinct high-PA (HPA) and low-PA (LPA) exposure groups. Weighted genetic risk scores (WGRSs) were calculated from 13 Asian-derived obesity-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Annual anthropometric, metabolic, and lifestyle data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models to assess gene-PA interactions on obesity. The WGRS predicted baseline obesity measures, with each unit increase associated with a 0.21-kg/m² higher BMI. Over the natural experiment period, BMI increases in the HPA group were smaller than in the LPA group. After adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, and dietary factors, significant WGRS-PA interactions were observed for BMI trajectories. Participants with higher genetic risk for obesity experienced greater BMI and weight reduction benefits from sustained long-term PA. In summary, the present study identified a significant interaction effect between PA levels and WGRS in modifying BMI trajectories. Genetic susceptibility significantly modifies the protective effects of long-term PA on BMI progression in this cohort of Chinese youth. Show less
The quality of informal care for people with dementia (PwD) has gained increasing importance, as most PwD prefer home-based care over institutional placement. However, evidence-based intervention prog Show more
The quality of informal care for people with dementia (PwD) has gained increasing importance, as most PwD prefer home-based care over institutional placement. However, evidence-based intervention programs tailored to distinct care quality profiles remain limited. Additionally, the absence of clear thresholds to identify PwD receiving low-quality informal care poses a challenge for research and clinical practice. Thus, this study aimed to identify the profiles of quality of care (QoC) among informal caregivers of PwD, explore influencing factors of different profile, and determine the optimal cut-off score of the Exemplary Care Scale (ECS). A cross-sectional survey was conducted. A total of 213 dyads of PwD and their informal caregivers were recruited from memory clinic, rehabilitation clinic, and neurological clinic of a tertiary hospitals and communities in Wuhan, Hubei, China, between July 15, 2023, and July 14, 2024. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify QoC profiles. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to explore influencing factors of profile membership. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to determine the ECS cut-off score. Three distinct QoC profiles were identified: high (24.41%), moderate (44.60%), and low (30.99%). Among informal caregivers, lower monthly income, insufficient social support, and higher perceived overload were associated with low QoC profile, whereas, better quality of pre-illness relationship with PwD and greater activities of daily living (ADL) of PwD were associated with high QoC. ROC analysis yielded an optimal ECS cut‑off score of 15, with high sensitivity (0.993) and specificity (0.955). This study identified three distinct QoC profiles among caregivers of PwD, underscoring the heterogeneity of informal care quality. The identified predictors and the validated ECS cut‑off score of 15 provide an empirical basis for developing tailored screening tools and targeted interventions for high‑risk caregiver subgroups. Show less
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined lipoprotein implicated in cardiovascular disease, but its role in heart failure (HF) remains uncertain. Observational studies indicate a link between Show more
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a genetically determined lipoprotein implicated in cardiovascular disease, but its role in heart failure (HF) remains uncertain. Observational studies indicate a link between elevated Lp(a) and HF risk, but the dose-response relationship remains unexplored. This meta-analysis aimed to quantify the association between circulating Lp(a) levels and HF incidence. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science identified prospective cohort studies reporting hazard ratios (HRs) for HF incidence across different Lp(a) levels. A random-effects model was applied to pool effect estimates while accounting for heterogeneity, and restricted cubic splines assessed dose-response relationships. Five prospective cohort studies with 400 631 participants were included. During a mean follow-up duration of 11.0 years, 10 598 (2.6%) patients developed HF. A high Lp(a) level was associated with an increased HF risk (HR: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.14-1.59, p < 0.001), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 69%). Subgroup analysis showed a stronger association in studies using an Lp(a) cutoff of ≥ 50 mg/dL (HR: 1.68) compared to those with a cutoff of < 50 mg/dL (HR: 1.16, p for subgroup difference < 0.01), which completely explained the heterogeneity. The dose-response analysis revealed a nonlinear association (p for non-linearity = 0.001). HF risk increased nearly linearly below 55 mg/dL, then slowed, and plateaued at 160 mg/dL. Elevated Lp(a) is associated with an increased HF risk in a nonlinear pattern, with risk escalation slowing at higher concentrations. Show less
Frailty is associated with increased risks of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality. The 24-h movement behaviors (24HMB) framework conceptualizes sleep, sedentary behavior (SB), light-inte Show more
Frailty is associated with increased risks of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality. The 24-h movement behaviors (24HMB) framework conceptualizes sleep, sedentary behavior (SB), light-intensity physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) as mutually constrained components of daily time use and may inform frailty prevention and management. This scoping review maps evidence on associations between 24HMB and frailty and identifies methodological gaps to inform future research and nursing practice. This review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and follows Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance. We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science. We included observational studies of adults aged ≥18 years. Exposures were objectively measured or validated self-reported sleep, SB, LPA, and MVPA, including step counts, breaks in SB, isotemporal substitution models (ISM), and compositional data analysis (CoDA). Outcomes were frailty or prefrailty assessed using validated instruments. Quality was appraised with JBI tools. Thirty-three studies showed good methodological quality. Longer SB, particularly prolonged, uninterrupted bouts, was associated with higher frailty. Greater MVPA was consistently associated with lower frailty. Light-intensity physical activity was generally beneficial but often attenuated when MVPA or total activity volume was modeled. Sleep fragmentation and poor sleep quality were associated with frailty. Isotemporal substitution models and compositional data analysis indicated that reallocating sedentary time to MVPA would yield the largest theoretical benefit, followed by reallocating to LPA. Higher daily step counts and more frequent or higher-intensity breaks in SB were associated with lower frailty. Evidence supports a 24-h integrated movement-behavior approach centered on MVPA, combined with reducing prolonged SB and improving sleep quality, for the prevention and nursing management of frailty. The study design and analytical protocol were prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF). The unique identifier is S39Y4, and the publicly accessible URL is https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/S39Y4. Show less
Kuiliang Li, Lei Ren, Rui Lang+7 more · 2026 · Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of Stress · Wiley · added 2026-04-24
Compared with non-left-behind children (NLBC), left-behind children (LBC) face a higher risk of academic stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms due to separation from their parents; however, the het Show more
Compared with non-left-behind children (NLBC), left-behind children (LBC) face a higher risk of academic stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms due to separation from their parents; however, the heterogeneity of academic stress profiles and their relationships with the symptom network remain insufficiently explored. To address this gap, a cross-sectional survey of 10,524 Chinese children compared LBC (n = 2487) and NLBC. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was first conducted to identify academic stress subgroups among LBC. Subsequently, depression-anxiety symptom networks were estimated using Ising and Gaussian graphical models (GGM), with edge weights derived from regularised logistic regression (Ising) and partial correlation (GGM). Simulated interventions were further evaluated via the NodeIdentifyR algorithm (NIRA). Overall, compared to NLBC, LBC exhibited higher levels of academic stress, depression, and anxiety (ps < 0.001, Cliff's δ = 0.076; Cohen's d = 0.067). LPA revealed three academic stress subgroups: moderate (31.44%), high (9.17%), and low (59.39%). The severity of depression and anxiety symptoms increased with the level of academic stress. The high stress subgroup displayed a sparse network with stronger edges (e.g., A1 'Sudden Fear'-A4 'Physical Symptoms', edge weight = 2.10) compared to moderate- and low-academic stress subgroups. Core nodes with the strongest expected influence were A8 ('Decision Hesitation', moderate subgroup), A2 ('Worry', high subgroup), and D1/D6 ('Sadness' and 'Failure', low subgroup). Simulated interventions indicated that alleviating A8 'Decision Hesitation' or A2 'Worry' most effectively reduced symptom risk (16.66%-30.76%), whereas D8 'Motor' and A7 'Early Departure' were associated with maximal symptom aggravation. Taken together, by integrating LPA-derived academic stress profiles with symptom network analysis, this study reveals distinct symptom associations across subgroups. In the high stress subgroup, symptom A2 ('Worry') is a core intervention target; in the low stress subgroup, A7 ('Early Departure') holds preventive potential. These findings underscore subgroup-specific interventions tailored to individual stress profiles. Show less
To investigate the association between quantitative retinal vascular parameters and coronary artery disease (CAD) and to evaluate the efficacy of a retinal phenotype-based diagnostic model as a non-in Show more
To investigate the association between quantitative retinal vascular parameters and coronary artery disease (CAD) and to evaluate the efficacy of a retinal phenotype-based diagnostic model as a non-invasive tool for early CAD screening. A retrospective cross-sectional study. A single-centre study conducted at the Cardiovascular Center of Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, China, between January and October 2024. 417 patients with suspected angina undergoing their first coronary angiography (CAG) were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were age >18 years and high-quality fundus photography within 24 hours pre-CAG. Major exclusions were prior coronary interventions, severe systemic/valvular heart diseases and ocular conditions impairing retinal vascular visualisation. The primary outcome was the association between quantitative retinal vascular parameters and the presence of CAD (defined as ≥50% stenosis). Secondary outcomes included the diagnostic performance area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of three predictive models: one based on quantitative retinal vascular parameters alone, one based on traditional risk factors and a combined model integrating both retinal and clinical variables. This study enrolled 417 patients undergoing initial CAG. Compared with non-CAD controls (n=190), patients with CAD (n=227) had higher prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes, along with elevated levels of fasting blood glucose, lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), triglyceride (TG) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (all p<0.05). Quantitative fundus analysis revealed that multiple retinal vascular parameters were independently associated with CAD after multivariable adjustment, including fractal dimension (FD), vessel density (VD) and specific zonal measures of vessel diameter and tortuosity (all p<0.05). Multivariable logistic regression incorporating both fundus and clinical variables identified the following independent predictors of CAD: a decrease in FD (OR=0.26, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.41, p<0.01), reduced optic disc long-to-short axis ratio (OR=0.04, 95% CI 0.004 to 0.46, p=0.01) and optic disc-to-macula distance (OR=0.91, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.97, p<0.01), male sex, dyslipidaemia and elevated levels of Lp(a), TG, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and HbA1c (all p<0.05). The final diagnostic model achieved an AUROC of 0.802 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.845), with a sensitivity of 0.797 and a specificity of 0.679 at the optimal cut-off. Internal validation via bootstrap resampling (1000 iterations) confirmed the robustness of the identified predictors. Our findings, derived from an artificial intelligence-based fully automated quantitative retinal vascular parameters measurement method, revealed that multiple quantitative fundus parameters-including FD, VD and other morphological parameters were significantly associated with CAD risk. The CAD diagnostic model we developed demonstrates strong performance and high interpretability, making it suitable for early CAD screening and diagnosis. Show less