Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
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The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a major impact on human life. This review highlights the versatile roles of both classical and modern structure-based approaches for COVID-19. ⋯ Further progress into protein structure modeling was made using modern structure-based approaches derived from homology modeling and integrated with artificial intelligence (AI), facilitating advanced computational simulation tools to actively guide the design of new vaccines and the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. This review presents the practical contributions and future directions of structure-based approaches for COVID-19.
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Genital elephantiasis is a severe form of lymphedema of the groin. It is characterized by progressive enlargement and distortion of the genitals, presenting significant physical, psychological, and social challenges to the affected individuals. ⋯ We also discuss how a combination approach of ablation, soft tissue coverage, and lymphatic reconstruction is viable for treating genital elephantiasis. By examining the literature, we hope to provide insights into how surgery plays a role in the holistic management of genital elephantiasis.
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Aminoglycoside- and cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, which is a significant issue owing to the widespread use of these drugs in clinical practice, involves the entry of aminoglycosides and cisplatin into the endolymph and hair cells via specific channels or transporters, followed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and hair cells apoptosis. Current strategies focalize primarily on interference with downstream ROS effects; however, recent evidence has demonstrated that inhibiting the uptake of aminoglycosides and cisplatin by hair cells is another promising strategy for tackling the upstream drug uptake pathway. With advances in structural biology, the conformations of certain aminoglycoside and cisplatin channels and transporters, such as the mechanoelectrical transduction channel and organic cation transporter-2, have been largely elucidated. ⋯ This review focuses on the strategies for inhibiting ototoxic drugs uptake by auditory hair cells and provides potential targets for recent developments in the field of otoprotection. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of these proteins could help identify the molecules that inhibit the uptake of aminoglycosides and cisplatin by hair cells. Integrating upstream drug uptake pathway targets and MD simulations may help dissect molecular mechanisms and develop novel otoprotective strategies for aminoglycoside- and cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.
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Lymphedema is a progressive disease with no known cure. Characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid and subsequent swelling in the affected limbs, it often poses significant challenges to those living with it. Although various conservative treatments have been used to manage lymphedema, such as compression therapy and physical rehabilitation, surgical interventions have emerged as promising avenues for more substantial relief. ⋯ This review article explores the use of different lymphovenous shunts such as lymphatic implantation, lymph node-to-vein anastomoses (LNVAs), dermal-adipose lymphatic flap venous wrapping (DALF-VW), and supermicrosurgical lymphovenous anastomoses (LVAs) as treatment modalities for lymphedema. We will discuss the underlying principles, indications, techniques, and potential benefits. By examining the current state of knowledge and ongoing research in the field, we aim to provide insights into the role of lymphovenous shunts in the comprehensive management of lymphedema and shed light on the prospects for this treatment option.
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Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a significant cause of vision loss and requires appropriate surgical intervention. There are several approaches available, including observation, laser demarcation, pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling, and pars plana vitrectomy, which are chosen based on patient condition, surgeon experience, and national health insurance policies. Despite the various options, there is still no consensus on the optimal intervention. ⋯ Additionally, a survey was conducted with six questions to assess treatment patterns in Taiwan, which included input from the expert committee and an open poll at the 2023 Congress of the Taiwan Retina Society. This report provides a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge and expert consensus on the treatment of RRD, discussing the characteristics of current approaches and providing an overview of current treatment patterns in Taiwan. These findings aim to provide ophthalmologists with the best possible treatment for RRD.