CircPRDM5 inhibits the proliferation, migration, invasion, and glucose metabolism of gastric cancer cells by reducing GCNT4 expression in a miR-485-3p-dependent manner

Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a key part in the pathological process of gastric cancer (GC). The study is organized to analyze the function of circPRDM5 in GC cell tumor properties. Expression levels of circPRDM5, miR-485-3p, glucosaminyl (N-acetyl) transferase 4 (GCNT4), ki67, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and hexokinase 2 (HK2) were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blotting or immunohistochemistry assay. Cell proliferation was assessed by cell colony formation assay and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay. Cell migration and invasion were investigated by transwell assay. Glycolysis was evaluated by the Seahorse XF Glycolysis Stress Test Kit. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay were performed to identify the associations among circPRDM5, miR-485-3p, and GCNT4. Xenograft mouse model assay was conducted to determine the effects of circPRDM5 on tumor formation in vivo. CircPRDM5 and GCNT4 expression were downregulated, while miR-485-3p expression was upregulated in GC tissues and cells when compared with paracancerous tissues or human gastric epithelial cells. CircPRDM5 overexpression inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion, and glucose metabolism of GC cells; however, circPRDM5 depletion had the opposite effects. CircPRDM5 repressed tumor properties of GC cells in vivo. MiR-485-3p restoration relieved circPRDM5-induced effects in GC cells. GCNT4 overexpression remitted the promoting effects of miR-485-3p mimics on GC cell malignancy. CircPRDM5 acted as a sponge for miR-485-3p, and GCNT4 was identified as a target gene of miR-485-3p. Moreover, circPRDM5 regulated GCNT4 expression by interacting with miR-485-3p.CircPRDM5 acted as a miR-485-3p sponge to inhibit GC progression by increasing GCNT4 expression, proving a potential target for GC therapy.

[Transperineal targeted prostate puncture combined with rapid pathological examination in the diagnosis of prostate cancer]

Exploring the clinical value of multiparametric magnetic resonance (Mp-MRI)-cognitive fusion method of targeted transperineal prostate puncture combined with rapid pathological diagnosis. Patients with suspected prostate cancer admitted to our hospital from 2022.01 to 2023.05 were selected as the study subjects, and Mp-MRI was performed and the suspected lesions were scored by the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS). The enrolled patients were randomly divided into the transperineal prostate targeted puncture plus rapid pathology group (experimental group) and the transperineal prostate systematic combined targeted puncture plus conventional pathology group (control group), and the positive puncture rate, pathological findings, and complications were analyzed to compare the differences between the two groups. A total of 100 patients were enrolled, 53 in the experimental group [age 55-89 years, (73.17±7.79) years; tPSA 7.01-100 μg/L, mean 21.34 (12.38, 44.42) μg/L]and 47 in the control group [age 60-87 years, (71.96±7.07) years; tPSA 6.11-98.82 μg/L, mean 18.77 (9.04, 38.09) μg/L], and there was no significant difference between the two groups in the diagnostic positivity rate of overall PCa and clinically significant PCa (P>0.05); there was no significant difference in the highest Gleason score of pathological tissues between the two groups (P>0.05); the number of cases of medically induced sarcoid hematuria in the experimental group were significantly reduced compared with the control group (P<0.05). In terms of biopsy pain score (VAS), patients in the experimental group experienced less pain than those in the control group (P<0.05). The Mp-MRI-cognitive fusion method of transperineal targeted prostate puncture combined with rapid frozen section pathological examination can provide rapid and accurate pathological results, reduce the chance of post-puncture complications, and alleviate the pain caused by puncture sampling, which has high clinical value.

Association of Sedentary Lifestyle with Risk of Acute and Post-Acute COVID-19 Sequelae: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors could experience COVID-19 sequelae. Although various risk factors for COVID-19 sequelae have been identified, little is known about whether a sedentary lifestyle is an independent risk factor.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, 4850 participants self-reported their COVID-19 sequelae symptoms between June and August 2022. A sedentary lifestyle included physical inactivity (<150 min/week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity) and prolonged sedentary behavior (≥10 h/day) before the fifth COVID-19 wave was recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the relationships between sedentary lifestyle and risk of acute and post-acute (lasting ≥2 months) COVID-19 sequelae.

RESULTS

A total of 1443 COVID-19 survivors and 2962 non-COVID-19 controls were included. Of the COVID-19 survivors, >80% and >40% self-reported acute and post-acute COVID-19 sequelae, respectively. In the post-acute phase, COVID-19 survivors who were physically inactive had a 37% lower risk of insomnia, whereas those with prolonged sedentary behavior had 25%, 67%, and 117% higher risks of at least one symptom, dizziness, and "pins and needles" sensation, respectively. For the acute phase, prolonged sedentary behavior was associated with a higher risk of fatigue, "brain fog," dyspnea, muscle pain, joint pain, dizziness, and "pins and needles" sensation. Notably, sedentary behavior, rather than physical inactivity, was correlated with a higher risk of severe post-COVID-19 sequelae in both acute and post-acute phases.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged sedentary behavior was independently associated with a higher risk of both acute and post-acute COVID-19 sequelae, whereas physical inactivity played contradictory roles in COVID-19 sequelae.

Agreement and equivalence of estimated physical activity behaviours, using ENMO- and counts-based processing methods, for wrist-worn accelerometers in adolescents

The present study examined the agreement and equivalence between two physical activity processing methods. Data were obtained from 161 Hong-Kong adolescents (74 girls, age: 12.6 ± 1.7y). Participants wore an Actigraph GT3XBT on their non-dominant wrist for 7d. Time spent sedentary, and in light-(LPA), moderate-(MPA), vigorous-(VPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were calculated using different processing methods (proprietary counts and Euclidean Norm Minus One (ENMO)). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to examine absolute agreement (ICC2) and consistency (ICC3), and equivalence was assessed using pairwise equivalence tests. Using ENMO, sedentary time and VPA were higher, whereas all other behaviours were lower (compared to counts processing). Agreement ranged from poor (ICC2:0.42(Sedentary)) to moderate (ICC2:0.86(LPA)) and consistency ranged from moderate (ICC3:0.71(sedentary)) to good (ICC3:0.91(LPA)). Methods were not considered equivalent (all p > 0.05). Due to differences in the wear-time validation of processing methods, a sensitivity analyses (sub-sample with the same valid wear time for both methods (n = 56)), resulted in minimal change. Lack of agreement and equivalence between ENMO and counts processing methods suggests that the processing method significantly affects youth physical activity estimates.

Physical fitness, physical activity and adiposity: associations with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and cognitive function across adolescence

BACKGROUND

The cross-sectional associations between physical activity, physical fitness and adiposity with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease (particularly novel ones such as inflammatory cytokines) and cognitive function across the period of adolescence are not well understood. Additionally, novel physical activity metrics that summarise activity volume and intensity in a continuous manner have not been investigated in this context. Therefore, this study investigated the cross-sectional associations between physical activity, physical fitness and adiposity with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and cognitive function. These associations were compared between younger and older adolescents.

METHODS

Seventy younger (11-12y, 35 girls) and 43 older (14-15y, 27 girls) adolescents volunteered to take part in the study. Physical fitness (multi-stage fitness test, MSFT) and adiposity (waist circumference) were determined, followed 7d later by resting blood pressure, a fasted blood sample (glucose, plasma insulin, IL6, IL10, IL15 and IL-1β concentrations) and a cognitive function test battery. Habitual physical activity was monitored via hip-worn accelerometers over this 7-d period and the average acceleration (activity volume), and intensity gradient (intensity distribution of activity) were determined.

RESULTS

Average acceleration and intensity gradient were negatively associated with mean arterial blood pressure (β = -0.75 mmHg, p = 0.021; β = -10 mmHg, p = 0.006, respectively), and waist circumference was positively associated with IL-6 concentration (β = 0.03%, p = 0.026), with stronger associations observed in older adolescents. Higher physical fitness (MSFT distance) was positively associated with anti-inflammatory IL-15 concentration (β = 0.03%, p = 0.038) and faster response times on the incongruent Stroop task (β = -1.43 ms, p = 0.025), the one-item level of the Sternberg paradigm (β = -0.66 ms, p = 0.026) and the simple (β = 0.43 ms, p = 0.032) and complex (β = -2.43 ms, p = 0.020) levels of the visual search test, but these were not moderated by age group.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study highlights the important role of physical activity (both the volume and intensity distribution) and physical fitness for cardio-metabolic health. Furthermore, the present study highlights the importance of physical fitness for a variety of cognitive function domains in adolescents, irrespective of age.

Effects of different solutions consumed during exercise on cognitive function of male college soccer players

Background/Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of three solutions, i.e. carbohydrate-electrolyte-solution (CES), carbohydrate-electrolyte-protein-solution (CEPS), and placebo (PLA), on cognitive function of college soccer players.

Methods

Sixteen male college soccer players completed three main trials in a randomized cross-over study design. In each main trial, participants completed 90 min Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST) protocol and consumed one of three solutions. The cognitive function tests were performed; blood glucose and lactate concentrations, and several subjective measurements were also recorded in each trial.

Results

Compared with pre-exercise level, the accuracy of Rapid Visual Information Processing test (RVIPT) and the response time in Visual Search Test (VST, complex level) after LIST improved in CES and CEPS trials, but not in PLA trial. However, the accuracy of VST (complex level) decreased in both CES and CEPS trials, compared with PLA trial. CEPS consumption improved accuracy in VST (simple level), compared with CES consumption. Blood glucose concentrations were well maintained in CEPS trial, but not in CES and PLA trials.

Conclusion

It seems that both CES and CEPS consumption show certain benefits on some aspects of cognitive function in male college soccer players in Hong Kong. However, these effects may be specific to the cognitive domain tested.

[Design and clinical application of goal-oriented retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy]

Objective: To investigate the goal-oriented retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy and report the initial experiment. Methods: A total of 102 patients were selected to our clinic experiment, and performed retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy with the new method. including adrenal cortex adenoma 76 cases, phaochromocytoma 12 cases, adrenal cyst 6 cases, myelolipoma 4 cases, gangliocytoma 1 case and corticohyperplassia 3 cases. The mean diameter of the tumors was 2.8 cm (0.5-5.8 cm). The operative procedure was briefly described as such, with ultrasound guiding, a needle was punched percutaneously up to the adrenal mass or the renal upper pole from lateral to posterior axillary line just below the inferior border of the 12th rib. labeled the pathway of the needle with methylene blue. Along the way of the needle, a 12 mm port was introduced into the retroperitoneal space with closed method, and the laparoscope with a working tunnel was introduced to make a tunnel along the label up to the adrenal for finally removing it. Additional port should be used when it was needed in the procedure. Results: The procedures of all patients were successful, and 10 patients were performed with only one port, 81 patients with two ports, 11 patients with three ports. The operative duration was 49 (31-115) min, the average blood loss was 38 (0-260) ml. There was no transition to open surgery and no perioperative complications. The length of postoperative hospital stay was 4.1 d (2-7 d). 98 patients were available for follow-up of 16.5 months (1-38 months), no complication was found. Conclusions: The new method of retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy is feasible and safe for renal masses, and compared to the conventional method, it may be less trauma to the abdominal wall and retropertoneal tissue, and it was also better on cosmetics.

Effects of 8-week core training on core endurance and running economy

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of 8-week core training on core endurance and running economy in college athletes. Twenty-one male college athletes were randomly divided into 2 groups: a control group (CON) (n = 10) and a core training group (CT) (n = 11). Both groups maintained their regular training, whereas CT attended 3 extra core training sessions per week for 8 weeks. The participants were assessed before and after the training program using sensory organization test (SOT), sport-specific endurance plank test (SEPT) and 4-stage treadmill incremental running test (TIRT). Compared with the pre-test, significant improvements were observed in post-test SOT (78.8 ± 4.8 vs. 85.3 ± 4.8, p = 0.012) and SEPT (193.5 ± 71.9 s vs. 241.5 ± 98.9 s, p = 0.001) performances only in CT. In the TIRT, the post-test heart rate values were lower than the pre-test values in CT in the first 3 stages. In stage 4, the post-test oxygen consumption (VO2) was lower than that in pre-test in CT (VO2: 52.4 ± 3.5 vs. 50.0 ± 2.9 ml/kg/min, p = 0.019). These results reveal that 8-week core training may improve static balance, core endurance, and running economy in college athletes.

[Cement augmentation for vertebral osteolytic metastatic lesions: an evaluation on postoperative CT]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of cement augmentation on the osteolytic lesion in patients with vertebral metastasis. Methods: A total of consecutive 132 patients with 268 vertebral metastatic lesions treated with PVP from January 2008 to December 2016 in Zhongda Hospital were enrolled in this study. Retrospective analysis of preoperative, postoperative 3 days, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and ≥ 18 months imaging data on CT, the local control and progression of the tumor were evaluated by MDA response criteria. The local control rates were compared between the groups with the different rate of cement filling by Chi²-test. Results: Vertebroplasty procedures were performed successfully in all 268 vertebrae under DSA guidance, and the mean volume of PMMA injected in each vertebra was 0.7-8.5(3.9±1.5)ml.The rate of local control at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and ≥18 months after PVP was respectively 98.9%, 95.1%, 91.8%, and 85.2%, the difference was statistically significant(all P<0.05). The local control rate showed a statistically significant relationship to the groups with the rate of cement filling at 6 months, 12 months and ≥18 months after PVP, but there was no statistical difference at postoperative 3 months. The rate of local control was higher in 68 patients with lung or gastrointestinal cancer than in 17 patients with liver or kidney cancer at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: Cement augmentation has a local anti-tumor effect on vertebral osteolytic metastatic lesion, and the anti-tumor effect will decrease as the follow-up time extended.

Predicting Athletes' Pre-Exercise Fluid Intake: A Theoretical Integration Approach

Pre-exercise fluid intake is an important healthy behavior for maintaining athletes’ sports performances and health. However, athletes’ behavioral adherence to fluid intake and its underlying psychological mechanisms have not been investigated. This prospective study aimed to use a health psychology model that integrates the self-determination theory and the theory of planned behavior for understanding pre-exercise fluid intake among athletes. Participants (n = 179) were athletes from college sport teams who completed surveys at two time points. Baseline (Time 1) assessment comprised psychological variables of the integrated model (i.e., autonomous and controlled motivation, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and intention) and fluid intake (i.e., behavior) was measured prospectively at one month (Time 2). Path analysis showed that the positive association between autonomous motivation and intention was mediated by subjective norm and perceived behavioral control. Controlled motivation positively predicted the subjective norm. Intentions positively predicted pre-exercise fluid intake behavior. Overall, the pattern of results was generally consistent with the integrated model, and it was suggested that athletes’ pre-exercise fluid intake behaviors were associated with the motivational and social cognitive factors of the model. The research findings could be informative for coaches and sport scientists to promote athletes’ pre-exercise fluid intake behaviors.

Effects of whey protein in carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks on post-exercise rehydration

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different amounts of whey protein in carbohydrate-electrolyte (CE) drinks on post-exercise rehydration. Ten males completed 5 trials in a randomised cross-over design. A 4-h recovery was applied after a 60-min run at 65% VO_2peak in each trial. During recovery, the participants ingested a high-carbohydrate CE drink (CE-H), a low-carbohydrate CE drink (CE-L), a high-whey-protein (33 g·L^-1) CE drink (CW-H), a medium-whey-protein (22 g·L^-1) CE drink (CW-M) or a low-whey-protein (15 g·L^-1) CE drink (CW-L) in a volume equivalent to 150% of their body mass (BM) loss. The drinks were provided in six equal boluses and consumed by the participants within 150 min in each trial. After exercise, a BM loss of 2.15% ± 0.05% was achieved. Urine production was less in the CW-M and CW-H trials during recovery, which induced a greater fluid retention in the CW-M (51.0% ± 5.7%) and CW-H (55.4% ± 3.8%) trials than in any other trial (p < .05). The plasma albumin content was higher in the CW-H trial than in the CE-H and CE-L trials at 2 h (p < .05) and 3 h (p < .01) during recovery. The aldosterone concentration was lower in the CE-H trial than in the CW-M and CW-H trials after recovery (p < .05). It is concluded that the rehydration was improved when whey protein was co-ingested with CE drinks during a 4-h recovery after a 60-min run. However, this additive effect was only observed when whey protein concentration was at least 22 g·L^-1 in the current study.

Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and Risks of Obesity and Hypertension in Chinese Children and Adolescents: A National Cross-Sectional Analysis

We investigated the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and its association with obesity and hypertension in a national sample of children and adolescents in China, where many low- and middle-income families live. Data were obtained from a 2014 national intervention program against obesity in Chinese children and adolescents aged 6–17 years. Height, weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure were measured. Information of SSB consumption, socioeconomic status, dietary intake, screen time, and physical activity were self-reported. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association of SSB consumption with obesity and hypertension. A total of 66.6% of the 53,151 participants reported consuming SSB. The per capita and per consumer SSB intake were 2.84 ± 5.26 servings/week and 4.26 ± 5.96 servings/week, respectively. Boys, older children, and adolescents, and individuals with long screen time or high physical activity or low parental education level were more likely to consume SSB. Participants who were high SSB consumers had a higher odds ratio (1.133, 95% CI: 1.054–1.217) than non-consumers for having abdominal obesity after adjustment for age, sex, residence, socioeconomic status, diet, screen time, and physical activity. However, SSB consumption was not associated with general obesity or hypertension in children and adolescents. In conclusion, more than half of the children and adolescents in China consumed SSB, which was independently related to a high risk of abdominal obesity. The results of this study indicated that SSB reduction strategies and policies may be useful in preventing obesity among Chinese children and adolescents.

Effect of pre-exercise carbohydrate diets with high vs low glycemic index on exercise performance: a meta-analysis

Context

Although pre-exercise consumption of a low-glycemic-index (LGI) carbohydrate meal is generally recommended, the findings regarding subsequent exercise performance are inconsistent.

Objective

This meta-analytic study was conducted to determine whether a pre-exercise LGI carbohydrate meal leads to greater endurance performance than a pre-exercise high-glycemic-index (HGI) meal.

Data sources

The following electronic databases were searched until April 2016: MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The reference lists of selected articles were searched manually.

Study selection

Randomized controlled or crossover trials comparing the effects of LGI and HGI pre-exercise carbohydrate meals on subsequent exercise performance of healthy participants were included.

Data extraction

The Jadad scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. A fixed-effects model was used to evaluate overall and subgroup estimates.

Results

In total, 15 eligible studies from 727 articles were included in this meta-analysis. All included studies were of low research quality. The synthesized effect size ( d  = 0.42, z  = 3.40, P  = 0.001) indicated that the endurance performance following an LGI meal was superior to that following an HGI meal. Subgroup analyses demonstrated that the treatment effect did not vary across outcome measures (exercise to exhaustion, time trial, and work output) or athletic status (trained or recreational participants).

Conclusions

Weak evidence supports the claim that endurance performance following a pre-exercise LGI meal is superior to that following a pre-exercise HGI meal. Further high-quality research in this area is warranted.

[Oblique puncture approach via anterolateral to C2: a study of imaging anatomy on corpses]

Objective: To determine the anatomical relation between the carotid artery or laryngopharynx and the needle path via anterolateral oblique approach to C2 vertebral body, and whether the simulated path can direct the actual procedure. Methods: Contrast agent was injected into bilateral carotid arteries of 10 fresh cadavers (20 sides), and then CT scans were performed on each subject. Bilateral simulated puncture paths were simulated on the image of two-dimensional reconstruction CT. The distance between the puncture site and middle line(AC), the angle between the simulated puncture paths and the median sagittal plane (AOB), the distance between the simulated puncture paths and the side wall of hypopharynx, or the carotid artery was measured respectively. Under the guidance of fluoroscopy, oblique puncture via anterolateral to C2 was performed according to the simulated parameters, and then CT was done. The actual needle path was measured on the image of two-dimensional reconstruction CT. The outcomes were compared by using paired t test between groups. Results: Bilateral simulated puncture paths in all 10 cadavers were achieved on the image of CT. The bilateral punctures via anterolateral to C2 were successfully performed under fluoroscopic guidance in 10 cadavers, and the actual needle path could be showed on the image of two-dimensional reconstruction CT. The AC, angle AOB, the distance to carotid artery and side wall of laryngopharyngeal of the left simulated path was(4.7±1.0)cm, (33±8)°, (6.7±2.6)mm, (6.6±2.8)mm, respectively; and those in the right side was(5.2±1.3) cm, (36±8)°, (7.5±2.2) mm, (7.2±2.5) mm, respectively.The AC, angle AOB, the distance to carotid artery and side wall of laryngopharyngeal of the left actual needle was(4.5±1.1) cm, (33±9) °, (6.7±3.0) mm, (7.1±3.9) mm, respectively; and those in the right side was(5.1±1.5) cm, (35±10) °, (7.4±2.1) mm, (7.2±2.6) mm, respectively.And the actual and simulation data of both sides were compared and no significant differences was found by t test (t=0.104-1.882, all P>0.05). Conclusion: The simulated approach via anterolateral to C2 can be achieved on the image of two-dimensional reconstruction CT, it is consistent with the real needle path and can be used to direct the actual practice to improve the accuracy and safety.

Effect of carbohydrate and protein solutions consumed during a moderate-intensity exercise on post-exercise appetite

This study aimed to investigate whether co-ingestion of carbohydrate and protein during exercise affect the post-exercise ad libitum food intake. Twelve healthy active male participants (mean±SD, age: 20±1; height: 176±6cm; weight: 63.6±5.3kg; VO_2peak: 51.2±7.1ml/kg/min) completed three main experimental trials in a randomized cross-over design. In each trial, the participants completed 1h of ergometer cycling at 60% VO_2peak, followed by 2h recovery. The participants were required to consume one of three solutions every 15min during exercise: distilled water (DW), carbohydrate-electrolyte solution (CE), and carbohydrate-electrolyte-protein solution (CEP). The energy was matched between the two latter solutions. The CHO-to-protein ratio in CEP was 2:1. At the end of recovery period, participants were provided with pizza lunch ad libitum, and the amount consumed was recorded. Several subjective feelings, appetite scores and blood glucose were determined during the experimental trials. No differences were found in either the amount of consumed pizza (DW vs. CE vs. CEP: 607±128 vs. 592±119 vs. 599±125g, P=0.845) or the appetite score before pizza was consumed (DW vs. CE vs. CEP: 14±9 vs. 12±14 vs. 14±10, P=0.357) among the three trials. The blood glucose concentrations during exercise were higher in the CE and CEP trials than in the DW trial. In conclusion, different solutions consumed during a 1h moderate-intensity exercise in the present study did not affect post-exercise appetite.

Effects of Alpha-Lactalbumin or Whey Protein Isolate on Muscle Damage, Muscle Pain, and Mood States Following Prolonged Strenuous Endurance Exercise

This study compared the effect of alpha-lactalbumin and whey protein on muscle damage, muscle pain, and mood states during short term recovery following strenuous prolonged exercise. In a two-stage crossover counterbalanced design, 12 endurance male runners were recruited (age: 30.4 ± 2.8 year, height: 172.7 ± 5.6 cm, body mass: 66.7 ± 6.5 kg, VO_2max: 58.0 ± 6.9 ml/kg⁻/min), ran for 90 min at 70% VO_2max, and followed by a 4-h recovery. Two treatments (carbohydrate+alpha-lactalbumin, CA; carbohydrate+whey protein isolate, CW) were applied during the main trials. During the first 2-h of recovery, CHO was served at the rate of 0.66 g/kg/h and PRO at 0.34 g/kg/h every 30 min. Creatine kinase (CK), interleukin-6 (IL-6), salivary cortisol, rating of muscle pain, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and mood states were evaluated before (Pre-ex), immediately (Post-ex0), 2 h (Post-ex2h) and 4 h (Post-ex4h) after exercise. 24 h after exercise (Post-ex24h), CK and IL-6, muscle pain, and PPT were evaluated. Compared with Pre-ex, Post-ex24h CK was higher in both trials of CA (398.16 ± 41.37 vs. 184.77 ± 22.68 IU/L, P = 0.039) and CW (418.17 ± 67.86 vs. 202.41 ± 22.26 IU/L, P = 0.037). IL-6 was also higher than Pre-ex at Post-ex0 and Post-ex2h in trials of CA (Post-ex0 vs. Pre-ex0: 7.87 ± 0.74 vs. 1.69 ± 0.23, P < 0.01; Post-ex2h vs. Pre-ex0: 5.39 ± 0.88 vs. 1.69 ± 0.23, P = 0.02) and CW (Post-ex0 vs. Pre-ex0: 8.63 ± 1.06 vs. 1.59 ± 0.19, P < 0.01; Post-ex2h vs. Pre-ex0: 5.75 ± 1.33 vs. 1.59 ± 0.19, P < 0.01). No difference was found in CK and IL-6 between two trials at all time points (all P > 0.05). Compared with Pre-ex0, salivary cortisol was elevated at Post-ex0 in both trials (CA: 0.96 ± 0.13 vs. 0.41 ± 0.05 ng/ml, P < 0.01; CW: 1.15 ± 0.18 vs. 0.43 ± 0.06 ng/ml, P < 0.01) and was lower at Post-ex24h than Pre-ex in CA trial (0.17 ± 0.02 vs. 0.41 ± 0.05 ng/ml, P < 0.01). Compared with CW, PPT was higher at Post-2h in CA trial (31.55 ± 3.09 vs. 26.99 ± 2.32 N/cm², P < 0.01). Compared with Post-ex0, feeling of fatigue was lower at Post-ex2h (P = 0.014) and Post-ex4h (P < 0.01) in CA, while it was lower at Post-ex4h (P = 0.038) in CW. Compared with CW, feeling of fatigue was marginally lower in the CA trial at Post-ex2h (P = 0.056). In conclusion, compared with the co-ingestion of CHO and whey PRO isolate, co-ingestion of CHO and alpha-lactalbumin reduced sensitivity to the muscle pain, attenuated feeling of fatigue and was more beneficial to reduce the feeling of fatigue and cortisol responses during 4-h recovery following 90-min running at 70% VO_2max.

Post-exercise appetite was affected by fructose content but not glycemic index of pre-exercise meals

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether both glycemic index (GI) and breakfast fructose content affect appetite during the postprandial period and recovery period after 1 hr of brisk walking. Ten healthy young men (age: 21.7 ± 1.5 y, body mass index: 20.9 ± 1.1 kg∙m(-2), VO2max: 53.7 ± 3.7 mL∙kg(-1)∙min(-1)) completed 1 hr of brisk walking at 46% VO2max 2 hr after eating one of three isocaloric breakfasts: a low-GI breakfast not including fructose content (LGI), a low-GI breakfast including fructose beverage (LGIF) and a high-GI breakfast (HGI). All breakfasts provided 1.0 g∙kg(-1) body weight carbohydrates, and the calculated GI values for the three breakfasts were 41, 39, and 72, respectively. In the LGIF and HGI trials, approximately 25% of participants' energy was derived from either fructose or glucose beverage. Appetite scores were measured every 30 min during the 2-hr postprandial period and 1-hr recovery period. During the postprandial period, the incremental areas under the blood response curve values of glucose and insulin were higher in the HGI trial, compared with those in the LGI and LGIF trials. At 30 and 60 min during the recovery period, the appetite scores were lower in the LGIF trial than those in the LGI and HGI trials. No differences were observed between the LGI and HGI trials. Breakfast fructose content, rather than GI, seems to affect appetite during the recovery period after 1 hr of brisk walking.

Effects of protein addition to carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions on postexercise rehydration

Background/Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of the addition of whey or casein protein, the two major proteins in milk, to carbohydrate-electrolyte (CE) solutions on postexercise rehydration.

Methods

Ten young men aged 20.7 ± 1.4 years with an average VO_2max of 60.7 mL/kg/min ran for 60 minutes at 65% VO_2max on three occasions followed by 4 hours' recovery. During recovery, the participants consumed either CE solution with 66 g/L carbohydrate (CHO), or CE plus whey protein solution (CW trial, 44 g/L CHO, 22 g/L whey), or CE plus casein protein solution (CC trial, 44 g/L CHO, 22 g/L casein); the solutions were matched for energy and electrolyte content.

Results

The participants lost 2.36 ± 0.32% of their pre-exercise body weight after the exercise. Total urine output after recovery was greater in the CE and CC trials than CW trial (CE vs. CW vs. CC: 1184 ± 378 mL vs. 1005 ± 214 mL vs. 1256 ± 413 mL; p < 0.05). Fluid retention after ingestion of CW solution was greater than CE and CC solutions (CE vs. CW vs. CC: 46.9 ± 16.5% vs. 54.9 ± 9.2% vs. 45.8 ± 17.3%; p < 0.05). Lower urine specific gravity and urine osmolality were observed by the end of recovery in the CE trial compared with CW trial (p < 0.05). No difference was found in the changes in plasma volume in all trials.

Conclusion

These results suggest that during the 4 hours' recovery after a 60-minute run, the CW solution was more effective for rehydration compared with the CE or CC solution.

Carbohydrate electrolyte solutions enhance endurance capacity in active females

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of supplementation with a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution (CES) in active females during a prolonged session of submaximal running to exhaustion. Eight healthy active females volunteered to perform a session of open-ended running to exhaustion at 70% of their maximal oxygen consumption on a treadmill during the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle on two occasions. During each run, the subjects consumed either 3mL·kg⁻¹ body mass of a 6% CES or a placebo drink (PL) every 20 min during exercise. The trials were administered in a randomized double-blind, cross-over design. During the run, the subjects ingested similar volumes of fluid in two trials (CES: 644 ± 75 mL vs. PL: 593 ± 66 mL, p > 0.05). The time to exhaustion was 16% longer during the CES trial (106.2 ± 9.4 min) than during the PL trial (91.6 ± 5.9 min) (p < 0.05). At 45 min during exercise, the plasma glucose concentration in the CES trial was higher than that in PL trial. No differences were observed in the plasma lactate level, respiratory exchange ratio, heart rate, perceived rate of exertion, sensation of thirst, or abdominal discomfort between the two trials (p > 0.05). The results of the present study confirm that CES supplementation improves the moderate intensity endurance capacity of active females during the follicular phases of the menstrual cycle. However, the exogenous oxidation of carbohydrate does not seem to explain the improved capacity after CES supplementation.

Effect of the glycemic index of pre-exercise snack bars on substrate utilization during subsequent exercise

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of the glycemic index (GI) of pre-exercise snack bars on substrate utilization during subsequent moderate intensity exercise.

METHODS

Fourteen male participants (Age: 27 ± 5 yr; BMI: 22.5 ± 2.7 kg m(-2); [Formula: see text]: 48.7 ± 6.1 mL kg(-1 )min(-1)) completed two trials in a randomized and counterbalanced crossover design. Two iso-caloric snack bars with different GI values (20, LGI versus 68, HGI) were provided to the participants. Ninety minutes later, all participants completed 45 minutes of ergometer cycling at 65% [Formula: see text]. Substrate utilization was measured using indirect calorimetry.

RESULTS

During exercise, higher fat oxidation and lower carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation were observed in the LGI trial (LGI versus HGI: CHO, 87.3 ± 20.1 versus 99.2 ± 19.0 g, p < 0.05; Fat, 15.0 ± 5.8 versus 9.7 ± 7.0 g, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Compared with an iso-caloric HGI snack bar, pre-exercise LGI snack bar consumption may facilitate a shift of substrate utilization from CHO to fat during subsequent moderate intensity exercise.

Metabolic and muscular responses during and after a 100 km hill walk

AIM

Aim of the study was to assess different metabolic and muscular responses of recreational hikers during and after a hill walk of 100 km duration.

METHODS

Nine subjects (6 males and 3 females) completed the 100 km hill walk within 40 hrs. Physiological and muscular responses, and biomarkers were measured during- and 18 hrs after the exercise.

RESULTS

On average, exercise intensity was moderate with reference to %HRmax (64±7.1), with a declining trend. Energy expenditure ranged from 102.5 kcal/km to 186.2 kcal/km in different sections. Using a visual analog scale, left and right quadriceps, and left and right calf muscles had elevated values of perceived muscular soreness (5±2.4, 5±2.4, 4.6±2.7 and 4.6±2.7, respectively). Ranges of motion at hip and knee joints decreased at 47.4 km (P<0.05). Creatine kinase for male subjects increased 16-fold (from 106.8±95 U/L to 1747.6±1834.2 U/L) at 79.6 km. Creatine kinase-MB and lactate dehydrogenase for males were also elevated at 79.6 km and peaked at 100 km. Following recovery, creatine kinase for male subjects was still slightly higher than resting level (321.1±283.6 U/L vs. 106.8±95 U/L). Ranges of motion at hip and knee joints were higher than pre-walk level (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that healthy recreational hikers with average physical fitness can complete a 100 km hill walk within 40 hours without showing excessively stressful physiological responses. However, complete recovery would probably require more than 18 hours.

Effect of glycemic index and fructose content in lunch on substrate utilization during subsequent brisk walking

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of glycemic index (GI) and fructose content in lunch on substrate utilization during subsequent brisk walking. Ten healthy young males completed 3 main trials in a counterbalanced crossover design. They completed 60 min of brisk walking at approximately 50% maximal oxygen consumption after consuming a standard breakfast and 1 of 3 lunch meals, i.e., a low GI meal without fructose (LGI), a low GI meal that included fructose beverage (LGIF), or a high GI meal (HGI). The 3 lunch meals were isocaloric and provided 1.0 g·kg⁻¹ carbohydrate. Substrate utilization was measured using indirect respiratory calorimetry method. Blood samples were collected at certain time points. During the 2-h postprandial period after lunch, the incremental area under the blood response curve values of glucose and insulin were higher (p < 0.05) in the HGI trial than those in the LGI and LGIF trials (HGI vs. LGI and LGIF: glucose, 223.5 ± 24.4 vs. 92.5 ± 10.4 and 128.0 ± 17.7 mmol·min·L⁻¹; insulin, 3603 ± 593 vs. 1425 ± 289 and 1888 ± 114 mU·min·L⁻¹). During brisk walking, decreased carbohydrate oxidation was observed (p < 0.05) in the LGI trial than in the LGIF and HGI trials (LGI vs. LGIF and HGI: 60.8 ± 4.0 vs. 68.1 ± 6.0 and 74.4 ± 4.7 g). No difference was found in fat oxidation among the 3 trials (LGI vs. LGIF vs. HGI: 21.6 ± 2.3 vs. 19.2 ± 2.3 vs. 16.4 ± 2.2 g). It appeared that fructose content was an important influencing factor when considering the effect of different GI lunch meals on substrate utilization during subsequent moderate intensity exercise.

[Process for lymphatic filariasis elimination in Jiangsu Province, China]

OBJECTIVE

To review the process of lymphatic filariasis elimination in Jiangsu Province, and summarize the control experience.

METHODS

The data of epidemic status, control and surveillance of lymphatic filariasis were collected and analyzed in Jiangsu Province from 1950s to 1990s.

RESULTS

Lymphatic filariasis was endemic in 71 counties (cities) among all 75 counties (cities) in Jiangsu Province. Filariasis bancrofti distributed widely in the province, and in some areas of the south of Jiangsu, there were filariasis bancrofti and Brug' s filariasis co-existing. Before 1971, the microfilaria rate (mfr) in some areas had ever reached 20. 15% , from 1979, large scale control programme was carried out and the mfr in all endemic villages decreased to below 1% , and in 1989, the rate dropped to 0.016%. By 2001, the whole regions of the province reached the criteria of filariasis elimination.

CONCLUSION

The elimination of lymphatic filariasis in Jiangsu Province provides valuable experience for lymphatic filariasis control in other areas.

Glycemic index and glycemic load of selected Chinese traditional foods

AIM: To determine the glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) values of Chinese traditional foods in Hong Kong.

METHODS: Fifteen healthy subjects (8 males and 7 females) volunteered to consume either glucose or one of 23 test foods after 10-14 h overnight fast. The blood glucose concentrations were analyzed immediately before, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after food consumption using capillary blood samples. The GI value of each test food was calculated by expressing the incremental area under the blood glucose response curve (IAUC) value for the test food as a percentage of each subject’s average IAUC value for the glucose. The GL value of each test food was calculated as the GI value of the food multiplied by the amount of the available carbohydrate in a usual portion size, divided by 100.

RESULTS: Among all the 23 Chinese traditional foods tested, 6 of them belonged to low GI foods (Tuna Fish Bun, Egg Tart, Green Bean Dessert, Chinese Herbal Jelly, Fried Rice Vermicelli in Singapore-style, and Spring Roll), 10 of them belonged to moderate GI foods (Baked Barbecued Pork Puff, Fried Fritter, “Mai-Lai” Cake, “Pineapple” Bun, Fried Rice Noodles with Sliced Beef, Barbecue Pork Bun, Moon Cakes, Glutinous Rice Ball, Instant Sweet Milky Bun, and Salted Meat Rice Dumpling), the others belonged to high GI foods (Fried Rice in Yangzhou-Style, Sticky Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf, Steamed Glutinous Rice Roll, Jam and Peanut Butter Toast, Plain Steamed Vermicelli Roll, Red Bean Dessert, and Frozen Sweet Milky Bun).

CONCLUSION: The GI and GL values for these Chinese traditional foods will provide some valuable information to both researchers and public on their food preference.

Experimental and molecular dynamics investigation on tribological properties of nanocrystalline diamond films

Nanocrystalline diamond films were deposited on cemented tungsten carbide substrates using hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) method, and their tribological properties were investigated by friction experiments and classical molecular dynamics simulations. The friction tests were performed on a ball-on-plate type reciprocating friction tester under various normal loads and sliding velocities conditions; the experimental results suggested that the friction coefficient of diamond films showed increasing tendency with the growing normal load and sliding velocity. Furthermore, classical molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to investigate the changes in atomic scale friction behaviors of diamond films under extremely high normal load and sliding velocity conditions, the atomistic sliding mechanism was also discussed in this study.

A randomized, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial on the efficacy of ivermectin against intestinal nematode infections in China

To assess the efficacy of ivermectin against intestinal nematode infections, a randomized, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial was carried out in a total of 816 human individuals infected with different nematodes from three counties in China. The subjects were randomly assigned into experimental and control groups and orally given a single dose of 0.1, 0.2, 0.2 and 0.2mg/kg ivermectin against Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, Trichuris trichiura and Enterobius vermicularis, respectively. Parallel control groups to each of the ivermectin groups were given a single oral dose of 6.7 mg/kg albendazole. The cure rates with ivermectin and albendazole were 100% (102/102) and 99.0% (101/102) for Ascaris, and 66.7% (68/102) and 67.7% (69/102) for Trichuris, respectively, with no significant difference (P>0.05) between the two treatments. The parasitological cure rates of albendazole were 69.6% (71/102) for hookworm and 94.1% (96/102) for Enterobius, which were significantly higher than ivermectin (33.3% and 52.9%, respectively, P<0.0001). The expulsion of worm in the feces reached its peak 1-2 days after ivermectin treatment. The study showed that ivermectin, with few side effects, could be used as an additional treatment tool for intestinal nematodes, especially for the treatment of Ascaris and Trichuris infections in China.

The population biology and control of Necator americanus in a village community in south-eastern China

The population dynamic parameters of Necator americanus infections were estimated from longitudinal intensity and prevalence data from a village in south-eastern China. The theoretical predictions of a deterministic model incorporating these parameters were then compared with observed, horizontal, age-prevalence data from an infected population (N = 565), and an estimate of the basic reproduction rate (R0 = 3.7) of N. americanus was obtained. The findings indicate that populations of N. americanus might be easier to control by mass-treatment chemotherapy (eradication requiring only 63% of the population to be treated every year for 4 years) than those of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura.