[A case of microvascular anomalies in myopic retinoschisis]

It is a case found during routine reexamination one year after implantable Collamer lens (ICL) implantation. The patient had no complaints. The naked eye visual acuity of the left eye was 1.0, and abnormal blood vessels were seen in the supranasal retina. After fluorescein fundus angiography and sweep source OCTA, it was finally diagnosed as retinoschisis with microvascular anomalies of the left eye. This case suggests that the fundus of patients with high myopia without complaint should also be examined in detail and comprehensively. In addition to paying attention to peripheral retinopathy, the posterior pole and middle peripheral retina should be carefully examined, especially the areas that cannot be covered by conventional OCT.(Chin J Ophthalmol, 2021, 57: 944-945).

[Analysis of the detection of metals and metalloids in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid for the etiological diagnosis value of pneumoconiosis]

Objective: To analyze the differences of the concentrations of metals and metalloids in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of patients with pneumoconiosis, so as to provide reference for the etiological diagnosis of pneumoconiosis. Methods: From September 2019 to August 2020, 47 pneumoconiosis patients hospitalized in Chongqing Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases and undergoing bronchoalveolar lavage were selected as the research objects using cluster sampling method. The general situation and occupational history of patients were investigated by questionnaire, The BALF of 47 pneumoconiosis patients was collected, and the concentrations of metals and metalloids in BALF were detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) , the differences among patients with different types of pneumoconiosis, different stages of silicosis and different occupational history were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Results: The concentrations of 50 metals and metalloids in BALF were detected, and 21 of them were analyzed. Compared with different types of pneumoconiosis, the concentrations of Zn, Mn and Sn in BALF were statistically significant (F=9.959, 3.635, 9.488, P<0.05) . The concentrations of K, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu and Ni in BALF were significantly different in different stages of silicosis (F=4.271, 4.334, 3.588, 5.120, 7.340, 3.905, P<0.05) . The concentrations of Zn and Sn in pneumoconiosis patients with different types of work and types of exposed dust were significantly different (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The detection of Zn, Mn, Sn, and other metals in BALF can provide reference basis for the etiological diagnosis of pneumoconiosis and provide a new idea for the diagnostic method of pneumoconiosis.

Study into the spread of heat from thermo-optic silicon photonic elements

Phase modulators based upon the thermo-optic effect are used widely in silicon photonics for low speed applications such as switching and tuning. The dissipation of the heat produced to drive the device to the surrounding silicon is a concern as it can dictate how compact and tightly packed components can be without concerns over thermal crosstalk. In this paper we study through modelling and experiment, on various silicon on insulator photonic platforms, how close waveguides can be placed together without significant thermal crosstalk from adjacent devices.

Inter-relationships of different electrocardiographic indicators of left ventricular hypertrophy in 25,000 Chinese adults

Background

Several electrocardiographic (ECG) indices have previously been proposed to diagnose left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Such indices utilize different criteria, including increased QRS voltage, prolonged QRS duration, left axis deviation, and LAFB and LBBB-like patterns in varying combinations. However, the inter-relationships of these different electrocardiographic indices of LVH with each otherare not fully understood.

The purpose of this study is to estimate the relationships between the different LVH indices.

Methods

Electronic tracings of 12-lead ECGs recorded in 24,786 adult participants in the China Kadoorie Biobank recorded in 2014 were accessed to detect presence of LVH. ECG parameters of LVH, including individual and combinations of such parameters (voltage-only criteria such as Sokolov-Lyon, Cornell, Gubner as well as scores such as Romhilt-Estes point score) were estimated using customized computer software (Cardiolyse Oy, Finland) and compared proprietary LVH point score algorithms (Mortara, USA). Relationships between the different indices were assessed using a correlation matrix to explore associations between individual parameters and combined indices of such parameters. The matrices were used to construct heat maps and identify clustering of individual parameters.

Results

Overall, approximately 10% of the population had LVH assessed by Mortara algorithms. This graph shows that along with the free standing peaks, the rest are divided into two clusters of interconnected individual parameters. In the center of the largest cluster is the parameter, reflecting R-peak magnitude in aVL lead. In the center of another cluster was the left ventricular strain pattern, as described in Romhilt-Estes point score system. Overall, the Sokolov-Lyon index and LVH point score in Veritas algorithm had the strongest relationships with each other, but the Gubner and Cornell indices had relatively weak correlations with the other indices (Table 1). The mean correlation coefficient between five combined LVH indices was as follows: Veritas (Mortara) – 0.58, Sokolov-Lyon – 0.56, Romhilt-Estes – 0.45, Gubner – 0,32, Cornell – 0,3.

Conclusions

Parameters such as R-peak magnitude in aVL and left ventricular strain pattern were the most strongly related with each other. Aggregate indices, such as the Sokolov-Lyon index and LVH point score in Veritas algorithm were the most strongly related with all other indices, but the Gubner and Cornell indices were only weakly correlated. The results reinforce the utility of Sokolov-Lyon index and Mortara algorithms as the optimum measures of LVH.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Dairy intake and risk of major cardiovascular events: a prospective cohort study of 0.5 million Chinese adults

Background

Evidence on the association between dairy consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease has been highly inconsistent, with findings suggesting either harmful, neutral or beneficial effects. In addition, a very large majority of the previous studies on this topic were conducted among populations in Europe and North America who usually consume a higher amount of dairy products and very few data, particularly prospective data, come from China where the dairy consumption level is low.

Purpose

We therefore investigated the associations between intake of dairy products and incidence of several major types of cardiovascular diseases in Chinese adults.

Methods

During 2004–2008, the prospective China Kadoorie Biobank Study recruited slightly over 0.5 million adults from ten diverse regions (five urban and five rural) across China. Information on the consumption frequency of dairy products was collected at baseline and periodic resurveys, using a validated interviewer-administered laptop-based questionnaire. Over a mean follow-up of 10.9 years, there were 47,128 incident ischaemic heart disease events, 43,481 ischaemic strokes and 9749 intracerebral haemorrhages among 489,595 study participants, who did not report a prior history of cardiovascular disease at baseline. Cox regression analyses were performed to estimate multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for incident events associated with dairy intake.

Results

Overall, 69.3% of participants reported never or rare consumption (i.e. non-consumers) and 11.3% of them reported regular consumption (i.e. ≥4 days/week) of dairy products, with milk accounting for the largest proportion of total dairy intake (∼77%). Male and female regular dairy consumers had 2.1/1.5 and 1.7/1.1 mmHg lower systolic/diastolic blood pressure, respectively compared to non-consumers. In a subset (∼18,000) of participants with blood lipid levels measured, regular dairy consumers had ∼0.1 mmol/L higher LDL levels than non-consumers. After adjusting for a range of potential confounders, including sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, BMI and other dietary factors, dairy consumption was positively and significantly associated with risk of ischaemic heart disease, with the adjusted HR per 50 g/day increase in usual dairy consumption being 1.11 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.14). Dairy consumption was not significantly associated with risk of ischemic stroke but was inversely associated with risk of intracerebral haemorrhage, with each 50 g/day increase in usual dairy consumption being associated with 17% lower risk (HR 0.83, 0.78–0.88). These associations remained significant after additional adjustment for systolic blood pressure.

Conclusion

In this large study of Chinese adults, higher intake of dairy products was associated with a higher risk of ischaemic heart disease but a lower risk of intracerebral haemorrhage. The exact mechanisms underlying such associations require further investigation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): The CKB baseline survey and the first re-survey were supported by the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation in Hong Kong. The long-term follow-up has been supported by Wellcome grants to Oxford University (212946/Z/18/Z, 202922/Z/16/Z, 104085/Z/14/Z, 088158/Z/09/Z) and grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFC0900500, 2016YFC0900501, 2016YFC0900504, 2016YFC1303904) and from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (91843302). The UK Medical Research Council (MC_UU_00017/1,MC_UU_12026/2 MC_U137686851), Cancer Research UK (C16077/A29186; C500/A16896) and the British Heart Foundation (CH/1996001/9454), provide core funding to the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit at Oxford University for the project.

Associations of red meat, poultry, fish and egg intake with risk of cardiovascular disease: an 11-year prospective study of the China Kadoorie Biobank

Background

Higher red meat intake and lower fish intake have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), while the relevance of poultry and egg intake for CVD incidence remains inconclusive. Furthermore, most of the prospective evidence comes from studies in the Western populations, with limited data from China where the CVD patterns are largely different.

Purpose

We therefore investigated the associations of red meat, poultry, fish and egg intake with risks of several major types of CVD in Chinese adults.

Methods

The China Kadoorie Biobank is a prospective study which recruited ∼512,000 adult participants from ten diverse localities during 2004–08. At baseline and periodic resurveys, information on the consumption frequency of major food groups was collected using a validated interviewer-administered laptop-based questionnaire, together with medical history, socio-demographic and other lifestyle factors. During an average follow-up of 10.9 years, 47,128 incident ischaemic heart disease events, 43,481 ischaemic strokes and 9749 intracerebral haemorrhages were recorded among 489,595 participants, who did not have a prior history of CVD at baseline. Cox regression was used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) relating dietary exposures to CVD risk.

Results

There were 47.2%, 1.4%, 9.0% and 24.1% of participants at baseline who regularly consumed (i.e. ≥4 days/week) red meat, poultry, fish and eggs, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, including body mass index and other dietary factors under study, egg consumption was significantly associated with lower risks of ischaemic heart disease and ischaemic stroke, with each 50 g/day increase in estimated habitual egg consumption being associated with 18% (HR 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75–0.90) and 24% lower risks (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.69–0.84), respectively. Inverse associations were also observed between intakes of red meat, fish and eggs and risk of intracerebral haemorrhage, with adjusted HRs for 50 g/day higher intake being 0.84 (95% CI 0.74–0.97), 0.86 (95% CI 0.74–0.99) and 0.42 (95% CI 0.34–0.51), respectively.

Conclusion

This large prospective study of Chinese adults showed that higher intake of eggs was associated with lower risks of ischaemic heart disease and ischaemic stroke. Moreover, higher intakes of red meat, fish and eggs were each associated with a lower risk of intracerebral haemorrhage. Further investigation of the potential mechanisms that underlie the observed associations is required.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): The CKB baseline survey and the first re-survey were supported by the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation in Hong Kong. The long-term follow-up has been supported by Wellcome grants to Oxford University (212946/Z/18/Z, 202922/Z/16/Z, 104085/Z/14/Z, 088158/Z/09/Z) and grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFC0900500, 2016YFC0900501, 2016YFC0900504, 2016YFC1303904) and from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (91843302). The UK Medical Research Council (MC_UU_00017/1,MC_UU_12026/2 MC_U137686851), Cancer Research UK (C16077/A29186; C500/A16896) and the British Heart Foundation (CH/1996001/9454), provide core funding to the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit at Oxford University for the project. MG. Kakkoura is supported by the Wellcome Trust, Our Planet Our Health (Livestock, Environment and People - LEAP) (205212/Z/16/Z).

Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 Aggravated the Oxidized Low Density Lipoprotein-Induced Damage of Human Vascular Endothelial Cells

Introduction: Vascular endothelial injury could induce many cardiovascular diseases. Recently, some studies have indicated that matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) was associated with the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases. However, whether higher levels of MMP-7 were associated with the occurrence of the vascular endothelial injury is unclear. Material and methods: In this study, ox-LDL was used for the simulation of vascular endothelial injury in HUVECs. Next, we detected the expression of MMP-7 in these cells. After that, we established the cell models with MMP-7 overexpression and knockdown, respectively. At last, the apoptosis and inflammation of HUVECs were detected with corresponding assays. Results: After the stimulation of ox-LDL, the expression of MMP-7 was enhanced compared to the control groups. After the stimulation of ox-LDL and the overexpression of MMP-7, the apoptosis rates of HUVECs were enhanced, while MMP-7 knockdown led to the decreased apoptosis rates of these cells. Furthermore, after the stimulation of ox-LDL and overexpression of MMP-7, the expression of inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) was promoted. Additionally, the expression of these proteins was repressed after knockdown of MMP-7. Conclusion: MMP-7 aggravated the ox-LDL-induced damage of HUVECs by promoting the apoptosis and inflammation of these cells.

Comparison in UV-induced photodegradation properties of dissolved organic matters with different origins

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is ubiquitous in aquatic environments, whose behaviors and fate are highly related to the chemical compositions and size distribution. In this study, the UV-induced photodegradation properties of DOMs with different origins (i.e., macrophyte- and algae-derived) were investigated using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as flow field-flow fractionation (FlFFF). Results showed that, irrespective of DOM origins, the chromophoric components could be more effectively photo-degraded than the non-chromophoric ones. Though the two DOMs were characterized with similar fluorophores, the photodegradation properties showed obvious heterogeneities in DOM origins and molecular weights (MWs). Compared to macrophyte-derived DOM (MDOM), the algae-derived DOM (ADOM) exhibited a higher degradation rate and efficiency due to the abundance of labile components like newborn protein-like substances. The FlFFF results revealed a high photo-preferability of 100 kDa-0.45 μm protein-like MDOM and same photo-sensitivity of the size-fractionated humic-like moieties, testifying the reduction of molecular sizes during the photodegradation. However, the increase in relative percentage for 100 kDa-0.45 μm protein-like components and 5-15 kDa humic-like moieties implied a possible enhancement of molecular sizes for ADOM during the early period (i.e., the first hour) of photodegradation. This study provides new insights into the origin-related heterogeneities in compositions and size distribution for DOM transformation.

Formation and mechanisms of hydroxyl radicals during the oxygenation of sediments in Lake Poyang, China

Seasonal flooding-drought transformation process of lake sediments lead to changes of dissolved oxygen and redox conditions and the resultant generation of hydroxyl radical (HO^•). To date, information on HO^• formation and its regulators in seasonal lake sediments is largely unexplored. In this study, a total of nineteen sediments were collected from Lake Poyang, China, with the formation and mechanisms of HO^• during the oxygenation process exploring via the incubation experiments, Fe K-edge X-ray adsorption spectroscopy, ultrafiltration, and fluorescent spectroscopy. Results showed that the concentrations of HO^• generated ranged from 3.75 ± 1.13 to 271.8 ± 22.81 μmol kg^-1, demonstrating high formation potential and obvious spatial heterogeneity. The yield of HO^• formed was positively correlated with the contents of Fe(II), sedimentary organic carbon, and dissolved organic carbon, showing a general contribution of these reduced substances to HO^• formation. Furthermore, application of Fe K-edge X-ray adsorption spectroscopy revealed the key species of sedimentary Fe-smectite for HO^• formation due to its high peroxidase-like activity. Besides inorganic Fe(II), the sedimentary dissolved organic matters (DOMs) represented an important regulator for HO^• formation, which contributed about 2-11% of the total HO^• generation. Moreover, the DOM-induced formation potential was found to be highly related to the molecular weight distribution that the low molecular weight- (LMW, <1 kDa) fraction exhibited higher HO^• formation potential than the bulk and high molecular weight- (HMW, 1 kDa-0.45 μm) counterparts. In addition, the omnipresent mineral Fe(II)-DOM interaction in sediment matrix exhibited another 2-6% of contribution to the total HO^• production. This study highlighted the importance of contents and species of Fe(II) and DOM in manipulating the HO^• yield, providing new insight into understanding the formation mechanisms of HO^• in the seasonal lake sediment.

Micromagnetic simulation of microstructure effect for binary-main-phase Nd-Ce-Fe-B magnets

We investigate the magnetic properties of a chemically heterogeneous binary-main-phase (BMP) Nd-Ce-Fe-B magnet with a core-shell structure via micromagnetic simulation. It is found that the coercivity strongly depends on the shell thickness. The BMP magnet's coercivity initially increases and then decreases with increasing Nd-rich shell thickness, and so there is the optimal shell thickness which shows the maximum coercivity for any given Ce concentration. The simulation shows the significant difference in coercivity and maximum energy product between the BMP and single-main-phase magnets. Notably, the magnetization reversal mechanism of the BMP magnet is revealed in the simulation. Local reversals in the BMP magnet first occur in the Ce-rich shells, followed by the Nd-rich cores. Then, the magnetization in Ce-rich core/Nd-rich shell typed grains is switched after reversed magnetization of all the Nd-rich core/Ce-rich shell typed grains. The BMP magnet represents a further increased coercivity for a larger GB thickness, which can be well explained by a maximum stray field.

[Evaluation of the fresh air purification system in the classroom under heavy pollution weather]

Evaluate the effect of the fresh air purification system on the improvement of indoor PM_2.5 levels in a primary school classroom in Jinan City, Shandong Province. Our purpose is to explore the optimal operating time of the fresh air system and the main factors that affect the fresh air purification system to improve indoor air quality. From December 9, 2019 to December 10, 2019, two classrooms of the same area on the third floor of a primary school building in Jinan City, Shandong Province were selected as monitoring points. During the operation of the fresh air purification system, the PM_2.5 concentration in the classroom is reduced by an average of 48.1%-61.5% compared to the outdoor PM_2.5 concentration. After running for about 2 hours, the indoor PM_2.5 concentration decreased to a relatively stable concentration level. The operating time of the fresh air purification system, student activities between classes, indoor temperature, indoor relative humidity, and outdoor PM_2.5 concentration are important factors that affect the indoor particulate removal rate. In the case of a certain amount of fresh air and indoor area, closing doors and windows and appropriately extending the operation time of the fresh air purification system can improve the air quality in the classroom to a certain extent and protect the health of students.

Co-designing digital cardiac rehabilitation with patients living in rural and remote australia - the country heart attack prevention project

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Co-sponsored National health Medical Partnership Grant

OnBehalf

the country heart attack prevention project

Background/significance. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) significantly reduces death, reoccurring cardiac events, hospital admissions while improving quality of life. However, it is still poorly attended with participation rates worldwide between 20-50%, worsened for rural and remote patients by the tyranny of distance, work responsibilities and transportation. Web-based CR can provide an alternative, patient centred, flexible delivery option. Co-design with consumers and clinicians is recommended to tailor web-based CR to their needs and preferences as a means of increasing attendance.

Purpose. The objective of this study is to describe how patient-generated data through workshops on desired content and features informs technology and implementation specifications for the patient portal of a CR website.

Methods. UX Design theoretical framework, using a co-design workshop, with thematic analysis, a survey, and the System Usability Scale was used to report outcomes.

Results. Based on the feedback from participants in rural and remote SA, desired content and features were updated for improving user experience. We recruited 27 participants across 4 regional Local health Networks in SA. The median age of participants was 71.0 (IQR 58-78), 14 (51.9%) were female and 27 (100%) had completed a cardiac rehabilitation program. More than half used a smart phone (16; 59.3%) and Facebook (21; 77.8%). Overall usability remains low based on a mean SUS score of 63.4 (SD 21.1), however there was a tendency to usability improving over time.

Conclusion. The co-design process has contributed to the development of the CR website, improving desired content and features. Improved usability scores can be achieved through further incorporating consumer feedback into the development of the CR website.

Adverse events associated with mirabegron 50mg versus placebo: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The safety of mirabegron 50mg monotherapy was comprehensively assessed versus placebo for overactive bladder.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted up to June, 2020 using PUBMED, EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Randomized controlled trials evaluating safety of mirabegron in overactive bladder were collected, and safety was assessed according to 15 adverse events. Adverse events were widely selected to be assessed if they could be calculated. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed by using the χ² test based on the Q and I² tests. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using fixed model if I²<50%, otherwise a random-effects model was chosen. The outcomes were nasopharyngitis, dry mouth, hypertension, constipation, headache, dyspepsia, urinary tract infection, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, cardiovascular events, influenza, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, upper respiratory tract infection and high blood pressure.

RESULTS

In all, 10 peer-reviewed trials comprising 6135 patients were identified. Compared with placebo, mirabegron 50mg had an unfavorable safety profile resulting in nasopharyngitis (OR, 1.54[95% credible interval, 1.05-2.25]; P=0.03. No statistical difference was found between mirabegron 50mg and placebo groups in other 14 outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Mirabegron 50mg is further confirmed to be nearly as safe as placebo, expect for nasopharyngitis. Nasopharyngitis is associated with mirabegron 50mg monotherapy for patients with overactive bladder.

Burst of hydroxyl radicals in sediments derived by flooding/drought transformation process in Lake Poyang, China

Oxygenation of the reduced species has been regarded as the major source for hydroxyl radical (HO) generation in aquatic environments. Yet, the O₂-induced formation of HO in lake sediments during the flooding/drought transformation process remained largely unexplored. In this study, two types of sediments from Wucheng (WC) and Nanji (NJ) area in Lake Poyang, China, were collected, respectively, with the burst of HO derived by flooding/drought transformation process exploring via the incubation experiments. Results showed that no obvious HO can be detected for the two sediments during the flooding period, while the concentrations of HO increased rapidly for the flooding/drought transformation process due to the enhanced dissolved oxygen contents. The highest concentrations of HO in the surface sediment were 2.45 ± 0.19 μmol kg^-1 for WC sediment and 0.69 ± 0.25 μmol kg^-1 for NJ sediment, showing higher burst potential of HO for the former. The contents of Fe(II) in the surface sediments for WC area (589.3 ± 37.29 mg kg^-1) were about two times higher than those for NJ area (308.4 ± 94.01 mg kg^-1) during the flooding period. Oxygenation of the surface Fe(II) contributed significantly to the burst of HO in the flooding/drought transformation process. Moreover, the higher percentage of humic-like substances in WC sediment indicated that the dissolved humic fraction exhibited also important role in the HO formation due to electrons transfer under redox conditions. This study highlighted the importance of reactive reduced species in manipulating the burst of HO in lake sediment, which is essential for understanding the geochemical cycling of several major and trace elements as well as the behavior and fate of the contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.

[Surveillance and genetic characteristics of imported cases of measles virus of D8 genotype in Hebei province]

Objective: To understand the epidemiological and genotypic characteristics of imported cases of measles virus of D8 genotype in Hebei province. Methods: Epidemiological investigation of measles cases in surveillance was carried out. The throat swabs of the measles cases in acute phase were collected for real time RT-PCR identification, measles virus culture and genotype identification. Results: A total of 36 imported measles cases of genotype D8 were detected. The cases were mainly distributed in 8 counties of Handan city. Number of confirmed measles cases in Cheng'an county was the highest, accounting for 58.33% (21/36) of all the reported cases. All patients had fever and rash, and 55.55% (20/36) of the cases were under 2 years old and 86.11% (31/36) of the cases had no immunization history. The children with pneumonia accounted for 44.12% (15/34) of the total children with D8 genotype measles virus infection. The nucleotide and amino acid homologies between the imported measles virus genotype D8 and the WHO reference strain of D8 genotype (D8-Manchester.UNK/30.94) were 98.4%-98.6% and 97.3%, respectively. Compared with the strains of H1 genotype in China, the nucleotide and amino acid homologies were 92.8%-93.1% and 93.3%, respectively. Conclusions: The imported cases of measles virus of D8 genotype might have caused local transmission in Hebei province. Molecular epidemiological surveillance for measles virus needs to be further strengthened. It is necessary to detect and control the epidemic early and improve the coverage rate and timely rate of measles vaccination. It is also important to prevent cross infection in hospitals.

Androgen receptor inhibition alleviated inflammation in experimental autoimmune myocarditis by increasing autophagy in macrophages

OBJECTIVE

Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) is characterized by pronounced macrophage infiltration, cardiac necrosis, and cardiac fibrosis. Our previous studies have demonstrated that suppressed androgen receptor (AR) enables anti-inflammation to promote tissue repair by decreasing M1 macrophages and increasing M2 macrophages in an EAM model. Given that autophagy mediates inflammatory response in macrophages, we investigated whether AR inhibition executes its protective role in inflammation through the autophagy pathway in EAM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To determine whether AR inhibition can perform its anti-inflammatory effects by upregulating autophagy, we pre-treated mice with 3-methyl adenine (3-MA), a pharmacological inhibitor of autophagy. Immunofluorescence assay and Western blot were used to detect autophagy levels and autophagy activity in five different groups. Immunofluorescence marked F4/80 and LC3 to illustrate the autophagy level in macrophages. TUNEL assays were used to detect the apoptosis level in heart tissue of five different groups.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that AR inhibition resolves injury with sustained inhibition of inflammatory cytokines associated with enhanced autophagy, especially in macrophages. Increased LC3II/I expression corroborated complete autolysosome formation detected by electron microscopy and correlated with degradation of SQSTM1/p62 in the AR inhibition group by Western blot. These effects could be reversed within 3-MA, a pharmacological inhibitor of autophagy. Specifically, pharmacological inhibition of autophagy increased apoptosis and inflammation, which could be attenuated by AR inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

AR inhibition alleviates the inflammatory response and tissue apoptosis by enhancing autophagy, especially in macrophages.

[Performance of vaginal self-sampling high-risk HPV genotyping as primary and combining cytology or viral load as secondary in cervical cancer screening]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotyping with vaginal self-sampling in primary screening and combining cytology or viral load for HR-HPV positive as secondary screening strategies. Methods: The data referring to HR-HPV genotyping of self-collected sample with mass array matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), HR-HPV viral load of physician-collected sample with hybrid capture Ⅱ (HC-Ⅱ), liquid-based cytology and histology of 8 556 women were from Shenzhen cervical cancer screening trial Ⅱ (SHENCCAST-Ⅱ) conducted between April 2009 and April 2010. The data were reanalyzed to determine the sensitivity and specificity to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) of grade 2 or worse (CIN Ⅱ⁺), CIN of grade 3 or worse (CIN Ⅲ⁺) when HR-HPV genotyping combining with colposcopy as primary screening strategy based on varied HR-HPV subtype (strategy 1, including 5 sub-strategies: 1a: HPV 16/18 positive; 1b: HPV 16/18/58 positive; 1c: HPV 16/18/58/31/33 positive; 1d: HPV 16/18/58/31/33/52 positive; 1e: any HR-HPV positive). The data were also compared to determine the efficacy of cytology (strategy 2, including 5 sub-strategies: 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e) or HR-HPV viral load (strategy 3, including 4 sub-strategies: 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) of physician-collected sample as a triage with HR-HPV genotyping for self-sampling HR-HPV positives. Results: (1) The HR-HPV positive rate was 13.77% (1 178/8 556) in the self-collected samples of 8 556 pregnant women. Of them,the prevalences of HPV 16/18, HPV 16/18/58, HPV 16/18/58/31/33 and HPV 16/18/58/31/33/52 were 3.16% (270/8 556), 5.14% (440/8 556), 6.66% (570/8 556) and 9.81% (839/8 556), respectively. The HR-HPV viral load ≥10 relative light units/control (RLU/CO) was 8.87%(759/ 8 556), while cytological results ≥atypical squamous cell of undetermined signification (ASCUS) were 12.05% (1 031/8 556). (2) The strategy 1e had the highest sensitivities for CIN Ⅱ⁺, CIN Ⅲ⁺ which were 92.70% and 94.33%,respectively,among 14 sub-strategies,while the lowest specificity and positive predictive value (PPV). Meanwhile,the required colposcopy referral rates were much higher than other 13 sub-strategies (13.77%). The other 4 sub-strategies of strategy 1 (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d), strategy 1a had the highest specificities for CIN Ⅱ⁺ and CIN Ⅲ⁺ (97.92%, 97.69%, respectively), while 1d had the highest sensitivities for CIN Ⅱ⁺ and CIN Ⅲ⁺ (88.41%, 92.20%, respectively). (3) Both strategies of referring self-sampling HPV 16/18 positives for immediate colposcopy followed by triage physician-collected sample cytology (≥ASCUS) or viral load (≥10 RLU/CO) for non-HPV 16/18 positives had significantly higher sensitivity and specificity for CIN Ⅱ, CIN Ⅲ⁺, as well as lower referral rates (strategy 2a and 3a). Additionally, based on these two secondary screening strategies, cumulatively using the other four HR-HPV (HPV 58, 31, 33 and 52) positives as triage for immediate colposcopy showed an enhanced sensitivity. Conclusions: Primary HR-HPV cervical cancer screening strategy based on self-sampling with triage of cytology (≥ASCUS) or viral load (≥10 RUL/CO) provides a good balance among sensitivity, specificity for CIN Ⅱ⁺ and CIN Ⅲ⁺ and the number of tests required, referral rates. The efficacy of HR-HPV genotyping combining cytology or viral load secondary screening strategies will have a spiral escalation when HPV 58, 31, 33, 52 are included.

Investigation of carbon dynamics in rhizosphere by synchrotron radiation-based Fourier transform infrared combined with two dimensional correlation spectroscopy

Rhizosphere, formed via the input of root exudates, is one of the most dynamic biological interfaces on earth. Investigation of carbon dynamics in rhizosphere is thus crucial for the understanding of soil biogeochemical processes. Herein, synchrotron radiation-based Fourier transform infrared (SR-FTIR) combined with two dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) was used to probe and identify the changes of chemical constituents and functional groups of organic carbon on the root/soil interface in rhizosphere of two plants [Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees and Cyperus rotundus L.]. The SR-FTIR results showed obviously heterogeneous distributions of functional groups in rhizosphere at microscale. Specifically, regardless of plant species, about 20-30 μm regions in rhizosphere can be affected by root activities. The peak area ratios of organic-OH and aliphatic-C to clay-OH on the root/soil interface in rhizosphere were 4.04-8.48 times higher than that in bulk soil, providing direct evidence of the organic carbon storage due to root activities. 2D-COS analysis suggested that the root activities induced the first adsorption or sequestration of newly organics (3350 cm^-1) on the root/soil interface, followed by the destruction of clay-OH (3621 or 860 cm^-1), leading to the release of mineral associated organics and nutrients (e.g., 1510 and 1150 cm^-1) from the soil. These results can enlarge our knowledge on the concentration, distribution, and dynamics of organic carbon in rhizosphere at the microscale level and also the environmental behaviors and fate of other elements and contaminants that associated with organic carbon in rhizosphere. CAPSULE: SR-FTIR combined with 2D-COS can explore the distribution and dynamics of organic carbon on the root/soil interface in rhizosphere.

Cross-linked Poly(Octadecyl Acrylate)/Polybutadiene Shape Memory Polymer Blends Prepared by Simultaneous Free Radical Cross-linking, Grafting and Polymerization of Octadecyl Acrylate/Polybutadiene Blends

A semi-crystalline, shape memory polymer (SMP) is fabricated by free radical cross-linking, polymerization, and grafting in a blend of n-octadecyl acrylate and polybutadiene (PB). Poly(n-octadecyl acrylate) (PODA) is a side-chain crystalline polymer, which serves as the structure-fixing network counterbalancing the elastically deformed, cross-linked polymer network. At a constant 50/50 ratio of monomer and polymer the amount of free radical initiator, dicumyl peroxide (DCP) is varied from 1% to 5% w/w PB. From swelling measurements and calculation of the cross-link density it is determined that DCP produces greater than one cross-link per DCP molecule. It is found that lower cross-linking efficiency is favorable for higher shape fixity. This lower efficiency is found to produce a higher degree of crystallinity of the PODA in the 2-5% DCP samples, which is determined to be the main driver of higher shape fixity of the polymer. A SMP with >90% fixity and 100% recovery at uniaxial strains from 34-79% is achieved. This material should be useful for mold processing of shape memory articles. This approach provides a method to decouple the elastomeric and thermoplastic portions of a SMP to convert commodity elastomers into SMPs and tailor the shape memory response.

Accuracy of Intravascular Ultrasound-Based Fractional Flow Reserve in Identifying Hemodynamic Significance of Coronary Stenosis

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonic flow ratio (UFR) is a novel method for fast computation of fractional flow reserve (FFR) from intravascular ultrasound images. The objective of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of UFR using wire-based FFR as the reference.

METHODS

Post hoc computation of UFR was performed in consecutive patients with both intravascular ultrasound and FFR measurement in a core lab while the analysts were blinded to FFR.

RESULTS

A total of 167 paired comparisons between UFR and FFR from 94 patients were obtained. Median FFR was 0.80 (interquartile range, 0.68-0.89) and 50.3% had a FFR≤0.80. Median UFR was 0.81 (interquartile range, 0.69-0.91), and UFR showed strong correlation with FFR (r=0.87; P<0.001). The area under the curve was higher for UFR than intravascular ultrasound-derived minimal lumen area (0.97 versus 0.89, P<0.001). The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio for UFR to identify FFR≤0.80 was 92% (95% CI, 87-96), 91% (95% CI, 82-96), 96% (95% CI, 90-99), 96% (95% CI, 89-99), 91% (95% CI, 93-96), 25.0 (95% CI, 8.2-76.2), and 0.10 (95% CI, 0.05-0.20), respectively. The agreement between UFR and FFR was independent of lesion locations (P=0.48), prior myocardial infarction (P=0.29), and imaging catheters (P=0.22). Intraobserver and interobserver variability of UFR analysis was 0.00±0.03 and 0.01±0.03, respectively. Median UFR analysis time was 102 (interquartile range, 87-122) seconds.

CONCLUSIONS

UFR had a strong correlation and good agreement with FFR. The fast computational time and excellent analysis reproducibility of UFR bears the potential of a wider adoption of integration of coronary imaging and physiology in the catheterization laboratory.

[A systematic review of association between fine particle exposure and children's behavior]

Objective: To systematically analyze the impact of PM_2.5 exposure on children's behavior. Methods: Use air pollution, fine particulate matter, children, students, child behavior, neurobehavior, attention, autism, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, hyperactivity, and bad behavior as Chinese keywords. Use air pollution, fine particulate matter, particulate matter, PM_2.5, children, student, behavior, autism, attention, intention, neurobehavior, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, ASD as English keywords. Journal papers and grey literature were searched from CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, PubMed and Web of Science database from their inception to Nov 2019, which are related to PM_2.5 and children behavior problems. The search period is as of November 2019, and the languages are limited to Chinese and English. The inclusion criteria included the exposure factor of the study as PM_2.5; the results of the study included behavioral disorders and related diseases; the languages of the included literature were Chinese and English; original research papers; case-control, cohort or cross-sectional studies. Exclusion criteria include animal experiments; repeated reports; review articles; research exposure factors do not include PM_2.5; children self-harm and illegal behaviors. Finally, 25 articles were included. Results: Among the 25 included articles, 12 studies discussed the relationship between PM_2.5 exposure and childhood behavioral disorders, 13 discussed the relationship between PM_2.5 exposure and abnormal behaviors in children, and 5 studies based on the Chinese population. According to the research design, it is divided into birth cohort studies (15), cross-sectional studies (5), and case-control studies (5). China mainly uses cross-sectional studies and case-control studies. The results of the study suggest that PM_2.5 exposure will increase the risk of children's behavioral problems, with both short-term and long-term effects. Short-term exposure to PM_2.5 can easily cause mild abnormal behaviors in children, and long-term exposure may increase the risk of children's behavioral disorders. The fetal period and the infant period may be the key exposure window for the occurrence of children's behavior problems. Conclusion: There may be a certain correlation between PM_2.5 exposure and children's behavioral problems. In future studies, longitudinal cohort studies should be carried out to enhance the causal relationship between fine particulate matter pollution and children's behavioral problems.