Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
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Orthoses play an important role in the conservative treatment of hallux valgus (HV) with different therapeutic effects. In this study, a new HV orthosis was developed using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. In addition, its kinematic effect was evaluated using motion analysis. ⋯ The results of our study confirm the potential of the 3D-printed HV orthosis in the static and dynamic correction of deformities while ensuring patient comfort with minimal impact on hallux kinematics, suggesting the potential of our design for long-term use.
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Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most well-known microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Huangqi (HQ), has been used for treating DR for a long time. However, its anti-DR active ingredients and mechanism are still unknown. Therefore, we designed this study to explore the active components and mechanism of HQ against DR via network pharmacology analysis. ⋯ This study preliminarily unveiled that the therapeutic efficacy of HQ against DR might be attributed to the reduced expression of CCL2, IL-6, VEGFA, and PTGS2.
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As modern societies witness a shift from home deaths to hospital deaths, the compromise practice of impending death discharge (IDD) in response to Chinese traditions and changing times deserves further exploration. ⋯ This study investigates factors associated with IDD, informing healthcare professionals on end-of-life care in Chinese culture. Future qualitative or prospective research can offer deeper insights into family dynamics, patient preferences, and other unmeasured factors influencing IDD utilization.
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Drug addiction is a social and medical problem that must be urgently addressed. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is closely related to addiction-related learning memory, and γ-aminobutyric acid type B receptor (GABA B R) is a potential target for the treatment of drug addiction. However, the role of GABA B R activity levels in the NAc in cocaine addiction is unclear. ⋯ GABA B R activity in the NAc is involved in the regulation of cocaine addiction and may play an important role through key mRNA pathways.