Deep learning-based facial analysis for predicting difficult videolaryngoscopy: a feasibility study

While videolaryngoscopy has resulted in better overall success rates of tracheal intubation, airway assessment is still an important prerequisite for safe airway management. This study aimed to create an artificial intelligence model to identify difficult videolaryngoscopy using a neural network. Baseline characteristics, medical history, bedside examination and seven facial images were included as predictor variables. ResNet-18 was introduced to recognise images and extract features. Different machine learning algorithms were utilised to develop predictive models. A videolaryngoscopy view of Cormack-Lehane grade of 1 or 2 was classified as 'non-difficult', while grade 3 or 4 was classified as 'difficult'. A total of 5849 patients were included, of whom 5335 had non-difficult and 514 had difficult videolaryngoscopy. The facial model (only including facial images) using the Light Gradient Boosting Machine algorithm showed the highest area under the curve (95%CI) of 0.779 (0.733-0.825) with a sensitivity (95%CI) of 0.757 (0.650-0.845) and specificity (95%CI) of 0.721 (0.626-0.794) in the test set. Compared with bedside examination and multivariate scores (El-Ganzouri and Wilson), the facial model had significantly higher predictive performance (p < 0.001). Artificial intelligence-based facial analysis is a feasible technique for predicting difficulty during videolaryngoscopy, and the model developed using neural networks has higher predictive performance than traditional methods.

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG Improves Periodontal Bone Repair via Gut-Blood Axis in Hyperlipidemia

Periodontal bone regeneration remains a clinical challenge, and hyperlipidemia can aggravate alveolar bone resorption. Probiotics have recently been reported to improve bone mass. We aimed to determine the role of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in periodontal bone regeneration improvement within the context of periodontitis with hyperlipidemia. A Sprague Dawley rat model for periodontitis, hyperlipidemia, and periodontal fenestration defect was constructed (n = 36) and administered LGG gavage for 6 wk (the rats were subsequently sacrificed). Fecal microbiota from donor rats 3 wk after LGG gavage was transplanted into recipient rats to evaluate the role of LGG-modulated gut microbiota in periodontal bone regeneration. Regenerated bone mass was detected using micro-computerized tomography and hematoxylin and eosin stain. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. Serum metabolites were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (6 wk after LGG gavage). The pro-osteogenic effects of screened serum metabolite were verified in vitro on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). We found that the bone mineral density, bone volume (BV), trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), and trabecular thickness of the regenerated periodontal bone increased after LGG gavage (P < 0.05) but had little effect on oral flora. After LGG gavage, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Collinsella in the gut of donors were significantly changed, and these differences were maintained in recipients, who also showed increased trabecular thickness of the regenerated periodontal bone (P < 0.05). These key genera were correlated with BV/TV and BV (P < 0.05). In addition, LGG gavage significantly regulated bone-related blood metabolites, of which selenomethionine promoted BMMSC osteogenesis. Notably, selenomethionine was associated with key gut genera (P < 0.05). Collectively, LGG improved periodontal bone regeneration in the context of periodontitis with hyperlipidemia by modulating gut microbiota and increasing pro-osteogenic metabolites in the blood. These results reveal new insights into the use of probiotics to promote periodontal bone regeneration via the gut-blood-bone axis.

The Use of Dynamic Navigation Systems as a Component of Digital Dentistry

The development of dynamic navigation system (DNS) has facilitated the development of modern digital medicine. In the field of dentistry, the cutting-edge technology is garnering widespread recognition. Based on the principles of 3-dimensional visualization, virtual design, and precise motion tracking, DNS is mainly composed of a computer, a tracking system, specialized tracer instruments, and navigation software. DNS employs a workflow that begins with preoperative data acquisition and imaging data reconstruction, followed by surgical instrument calibration and spatial registration, culminating in real-time guided operations. Currently, the system has been applied in a broad spectrum of dental procedures, encompassing dental implants, oral and maxillofacial surgery (such as tooth extraction, the treatment of maxillofacial fractures, tumors, and foreign bodies, orthognathic surgery, and temporomandibular joint ankylosis surgery), intraosseous anesthesia, and endodontic treatment (including root canal therapy and endodontic surgery). These applications benefit from its enhancements in direct visualization, treatment precision, efficiency, safety, and procedural adaptability. However, the adoption of DNS is not without substantial upfront costs, required comprehensive training, additional preparatory time, and increased radiation exposure. Despite challenges, the ongoing advancements in DNS are poised to broaden its utility and substantially strengthen digital dentistry.

[Analyses of the risk factors for the progression of primary antiphospholipid syndrome to systemic lupus erythematosus]

Objectives: Analyze the clinical characteristics of patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (PAPS) progressing to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Explore the risk factors for the progression from PAPS to SLE. Methods: The clinical data of 262 patients with PAPS enrolled in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from February 2005 to September 2021 were evaluated. Assessments included demographic data, clinical manifestations, laboratory tests (serum levels of complement, anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies), treatment, and outcomes. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to calculate the prevalence of SLE in patients with PAPS. Univariate Cox regression analysis was employed to identify the risk factors for PAPS progressing to SLE. Results: Among 262 patients with PAPS, 249 had PAPS (PAPS group) and 13 progressed to SLE (5.0%) (PAPS-SLE group). Univariate Cox regression analysis indicated that cardiac valve disease (HR=6.360), positive anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies (HR=7.203), low level of complement C3 (HR=25.715), and low level of complement C4 (HR=10.466) were risk factors for the progression of PAPS to SLE, whereas arterial thrombotic events (HR=0.109) were protective factors (P<0.05 for all). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the prevalence of SLE in patients suffering from PAPS with a disease course>10 years was 9%-15%. Hydroxychloroquine treatment had no effect on the occurrence of SLE in patients with PAPS (HR=0.753, 95%CI 0.231-2.450, P=0.638). Patients with≥2 risk factors had a significantly higher prevalence of SLE compared with those with no or one risk factor (13-year cumulative prevalence of SLE 48.7% vs. 0 vs. 6.2%, P<0.001 for both). Conclusions: PAPS may progress to SLE in some patients. Early onset, cardiac-valve disease, positive anti-dsDNA antibody, and low levels of complement are risk factors for the progression of PAPS to SLE (especially in patients with≥2 risk factors). Whether application of hydroxychloroquine can delay this transition has yet to be demonstrated.

Study on the preparation and enzyme inhibitory activity of polyphenols from Sargassum pallidum

This study aimed to obtain a high yield and purity of Sargassum pallidum polyphenol extracts (SPPE) and study its enzyme activity. Fresh Sargassum pallidum seaweed was selected for optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions and purification conditions using macroporous resin and Sephadex LH20 to obtain SPPE. The SPPE was characterized using UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS and α-amylase, α-glucosidase, tyrosinase, and AchE inhibitory activity were determined. The maximum extraction rate of SPPE was 7.56 mg GAE/g and the polyphenol purity reached 70.5% after macroporous resin and Sephadex LH-20 purification. A total of 50 compounds were identified by UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. The IC50 values of SPPE were 334.9 μg/mL, 6.290 μg /mL, 0.834 mg /mL and 0.6538 mg /mL for α-amylase, α-glucosidase, tyrosinase and AchE, respectively. Molecular docking technology further revealed the effects of SPPE on the above enzymes. This study provided information on the potential hypoglycemic, whitening and anti-Alzheimer's disease biological activities of SPPE, which had guiding significance for the purification and development of other seaweed polyphenols.

Two-Stage Treatment Protocol of Fungal Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Joint Infections: the Clinical Experience from a Single Center Experience

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the clinical results and safety of fungal periprosthetic joint Infections (fPJIs) using two-stage treatment protocol.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

8 patients with fPJIs (3 hips and 5 knees) using two-stage revision were reviewed retrospectively and followed up at least 2 years. The preoperative demographic data, two-stage treatment protocol, results of microbiology and histologic workup and postoperative follow-up results (reimplantation success rate and infection free time) were recorded.

RESULTS

7 patients got successful reimplantation, with a 75% reimplantation success rate. Two patients got knee arthrodesis eventually. All patients were infection free with a median follow-up of 4.0 ± 2.0 years (range, 2-7 years). Of them, Candida species were found in 7 patients, while non-Candida specimen was only isolated in 1 patient with Aspergillus. Only 2 patients had coexisting bacterial infection (Methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative Staphylococci and Proteus mirabilis respectively). The average interval between the initial surgery and diagnosis of fPJIs was 21.50±34.79 months (range, 4-104 months). The mean time of spacer implantation was 7.75±2.77 months (range, 6-14 months). None serious complication or above knee amputation was found.

DISCUSSION

fPJIs are very rare and considerable challenge after total hip or knee arthroplasty. The goal of therapy is to eradicate local infection and maintain function. Candida species were the most common pathogen. The duration between spacer placement and staged reimplantation was highly variable, and generally dependent upon the results of joint aspirates and infl ammatory markers. The current study shows that the two-stage treatment protocol is recommended for fungal periprosthetic hip and knee joint infections.

CONCLUSIONS

The two-stage treatment protocol is recommended for fungal periprosthetic hip and knee joint infections. The safety and effi cacy of biantibiotical impregnated (antifungal + antibiotics) cement spacer is confi rmed. Further evidence-based work is needed to determine the optimal drug dose and reimplantation time.

KEY WORDS

two-stage treatment protocol, fungal periprosthetic infections, hip spacer, knee spacer.

Comparison of milk protein concentrate, micellar casein, and whey protein isolate in loading astaxanthin after the treatment of ultrasound-assisted pH shifting

Milk proteins can be used as encapsulation walls to increase the bioavailability of active compounds because they can bind hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and charged compounds. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of astaxanthin (ASTA) encapsulation and the functional properties of milk protein and ASTA nanocomposites by an ultrasound-assisted pH-shifting treatment of different milk proteins, including milk protein concentrate (MPC), micellar casein (MCC), and whey protein isolate (WPI). The ultrasound-assisted pH-shifting treatment of milk protein helped to improve the encapsulation rate of ASTA. Therein, MCC showed great improvement of encapsulating ASTA after co-treatment with the raised encapsulated rate of 5.11%, followed by WPI and MPC. Furthermore, the nanocomposites of ASTA with milk protein exhibit improved bioavailability, antioxidant capacity, and storage stability. By comparison, MCC-encapsulated ASTA has the best storage stability, followed by MPC, and WPI-encapsulated ASTA has the least stability over a 28-d storage period. The results of intrinsic fluorescence and surface hydrophobicity showed that milk protein underwent fluorescence quenching after binding to ASTA, which was due to the hydrophobic sites of the protein being occupied by ASTA. In general, the nanocomposites of milk protein and ASTA fabricated by using an ultrasound-assisted pH-shifting treatment have the potential to be better nano-delivery systems for ASTA in functional foods, especially MCC, which showed excellent performance in encapsulation after treatment technique.

[Spatial distribution characteristics of the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody in Hunan Province in 2020]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the spatial distribution characteristics of the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody, and to examine the correlation between the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody in Hunan Province in 2020, so as to provide insights into advanced schistosomiais control in the province.

METHODS

The epidemiological data of schistosomiasis in Hunan Province in 2020 were collected, including number of permanent residents in survey villages, number of advanced schistosomiasis patients, number of residents receiving serological tests and number of residents seropositive for anti-Schistosoma antibody, and the prevalence advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody were descriptively analyzed. Village-based spatial distribution characteristics of prevalence advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody were identified in Hunan Province in 2020, and the correlation between the revalence advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody was examined using Spearman correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis was 0 to 2.72% and the seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody was 0 to 20.25% in 1 153 schistosomiasis-endemic villages in Hunan Province in 2020. Spatial clusters were identified in both the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis (global Moran's I = 0.416, P < 0.01) and the seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody (global Moran's I = 0.711, P < 0.01) in Hunan Province. Local spatial autocorrelation analysis identified 98 schistosomiasis-endemic villages with high-high clusters of the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis, 134 endemic villages with high-high clusters of the seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody and 36 endemic villages with high-high clusters of both the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody in Hunan Province. In addition, spearman correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody (rs = 0.235, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There were spatial clusters of the prevalence of advanced schistosomiasis and seroprevalence of anti-Schistosoma antibody in Hunan Province in 2020, which were predominantly located in areas neighboring the Dongting Lake. These clusters should be given a high priority in the schistosomiasis control programs.

Assessing hydrological connectivity for natural-artificial catchment with a new framework integrating graph theory and network analysis

Anthropogenic activities alter the underlying surface conditions and arrangements of landscape features in a drainage basin, interfering with the pollutant (e.g., dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus) transport network configuration and altering the hydrological response. Assessing the impact of anthropogenic activities on hydrological connectivity for natural-artificial catchment is critical to understand the hydrological-driven ecosystem processes, services and biodiversity. However, quantifying this impact at catchment scale remains challenging. In this study, a new framework was proposed to quantify the impact of anthropogenic activities on hydrological connectivity combined with graph theory and network analysis. This framework was exemplified in a natural-artificial catchment of the Yangtze River basin of China. Based on remote sensing and field-investigated data, three transport networks were constructed, including natural transport network (N1), ditch-road transport network (N2), and terrace-dominated transport network (N3), which reflected the different human intervention. The results showed that human intervention improved the connectivity of the nodes and enhanced the complexity of the catchment transport network structure. Anthropogenic activities significantly decreased the hydrological structural connectivity of the catchment. In particular, compared with the N1 network, the critical nodes for hydrological connectivity which were judged by connectivity indexes were reduced by 92.94% and 95.29% in the N2 and N3 network, respectively. Furthermore, the ditch-road construction had a greater impact than terraces in decreasing hydrological structural connectivity at catchment scale. This framework has proven effective in quantifying the hydrological connectivity analysis under different human intervention at the catchment scale and facilitates the improvement of catchment management strategies.

[Analysis of late-diagnosis and associated factors in newly reported HIV infections among men who have sex with men in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, 2005-2021]

Objective: To analyze the trend of late-diagnosis of HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) before and after the AIDS Conquering Project in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (Guangxi) and its influencing factors, in order to find out the population groups that need priority intervention at the present stage. Methods: The HIV-infected MSM in Guangxi from 2005-2021 were selected from the National Integrated HIV/AIDS Control and Prevention Data System. The Joinpoint 4.9.1.0 software was used to test the time trend of late-diagnosis and non-late-diagnosis cases, and logistic regression was applied to analyze the factors influencing the proportion of late-diagnosis at each stage. Results: From 2005 to 2021, 5 764 HIV-infected MSM were reported in Guangxi from 2005 to 2021, with an overall late-diagnosis of 28.45% (1 640 cases). Under the 2015 baseline data as the boundary, the proportion of late-diagnosis cases showed a trend of sharp decline followed by stabilization from 2005 to 2015, average annual percent change= -6.90% (P<0.001). The effect of factors such as resident population, occupation as a farmer or worker, and sample originating from medical consultation on late-diagnosis changed considerably before and after the implementation of the project, and the factors influencing late-diagnosis at this stage were age, resident population, occupation as a farmer, worker or student. The factors influencing late-diagnosis at this stage are age, resident population, and occupation as a farmer, worker and a student. Conclusions: The proportion of late diagnosis cases of HIV-infected MSM in Guangxi decreased significantly before and after the project. However, late-diagnosis should not be neglected and precise prevention and control should be carried out for the resident population, farmers, workers or students.

[Clinical features and prognosis of core binding factor acute myeloid leukemia children in South China: a multicenter study]

Objective: To analyze the clinical features, efficacy and prognosis factors of core binding factor (CBF) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) children in South China. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. Clinical data of 584 AML patients from 9 hospitals between January 2015 to December 2020 was collected. According to fusion gene results, all patients were divided into two groups: CBF-AML group (189 cases) and non-CBF-AML group (395 cases). CBF-AML group were divided into AML1-ETO subgroup (154 cases) and CBFβ-MYH11 subgroup (35 cases). Patients in CBF-AML group chosen different induction scheme were divided into group A (fludarabine, cytarabine, granulocyte colony stimulating factor and idarubicin (FLAG-IDA) scheme, 134 cases) and group B (daunorubicin, cytarabine and etoposide (DAE) scheme, 55 cases). Age, gender, response rate, recurrence rate, mortality, molecular genetic characteristics and other clinical data were compared between groups. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis and survival curve was drawn. Cox regression model was used to analyze prognostic factors. Results: A total of 584 AML children were diagnosed, including 346 males and 238 females. And a total of 189 children with CBF-AML were included, including 117 males and 72 females. The age of diagnosis was 7.3 (4.5,10.0)years, and the white blood cell count at initial diagnosis was 21.4 (9.7, 47.7)×109/L.The complete remission rate of the first course (CR1) of induction therapy, relapse rate, and mortality of children with CBF-AML were significantly different from those in the non-CBF-AML group (91.0% (172/189) vs. 78.0% (308/395); 10.1% (19/189) vs. 18.7% (74/395); 13.2% (25/189) vs. 25.6% (101/395), all P<0.05). In children with CBF-AML, the CBFβ-MYH11 subgroup had higher initial white blood cells and lower proportion of extramedullary invasion than the AML1-ETO subgroup, with statistical significance (65.7% (23/35) vs. 14.9% (23/154), 2.9% (1/35) vs. 16.9% (26/154), both P<0.05). AML1-ETO subgroup had more additional chromosome abnormalities (75/154), especially sex chromosome loss (53/154). Compared with group B, group A had more additional chromosome abnormalities and a higher proportion of tumor reduction regimen, with statistical significance (50.0% (67/134) vs. 29.1% (16/55), 34.3% (46/134) vs. 18.2% (10/55), both P<0.05). Significant differences were found in 5-years event free survival (EFS) rate and 5-year overall survival (OS) rate between CBF-AML group and non-CBF-AML group ((77.0±6.4)%vs. (61.9±6.7)%,(83.7±9.0)%vs. (67.3±7.2)%, both P<0.05).EFS and OS rates of AML1-ETO subgroup and CBFβ-MYH11 subgroup in children with CBF-AML were not significantly different (both P>0.05). Multivariate analysis showed in the AML1-ETO subgroup, CR1 rate and high white blood cell count (≥50×109/L) were independent risk factors for EFS (HR=0.24, 95%CI 0.07-0.85,HR=1.01, 95%CI 1.00-1.02, both P<0.05) and OS (HR=0.24, 95%CI 0.06-0.87; HR=1.01, 95%CI 1.00-1.02; both P<0.05). Conclusions: In CBF-AML, AML1-ETO is more common which has a higher extramedullary involvement and additional chromosome abnormalities, especially sex chromosome loss. The prognosis of AML1-ETO was similar to that of CBFβ-MYH11. The selection of induction regimen group FLAG-IDA for high white blood cell count and additional chromosome abnormality can improve the prognosis.

Up-Regulation of TCF21 Expression Reverses the Malignant Phenotype of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as one major component of tumor microenvironment (TME), are closely associated with tumor initiation and progression. Our previous studies have discovered that CAFs induced the resistance of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells to a variety of chemotherapeutic drugs such as cisplatin and paclitaxel. Furthermore, CAFs attenuated ionizing irradiation (IR)-induced cancer cells death by regulating DNA damage response. CAFs themselves are highly resistant to death stimuli due to enhanced antioxidant potential and DNA repair capacity. How to inhibit the malignant phenotype of CAFs is critically important for the radical treatment of ESCC.

MATERIALS/METHODS

By RNA-sequencing and DNA methylation analysis, the transcriptome and epigenome of CAFs and matched normal fibroblasts (NFs) have been integratively analyzed. By transfection of TCF21 cDNA plasmid, the expression of TCF21 in CAFs has been up-regulated. Using a cell counting kit and migration and invasion assay, the effect of TCF21 on the growth and migration and invasive ability of CAFs has been detected. Using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry (FCM) analysis and western blotting, the effect of TCF21 on the DNA damage repair and apoptotic death of CAFs following IR has been detected.

RESULTS

TCF21 is one of the top ten down-regulated genes in CAFs compared with NFs due to promoter methylation. Up-regulation of TCF21 expression inhibited the growth rate and migration and invasive ability of CAFs. The expression of α-SMA, as an indicator of CAFs activation, was down-regulated in CAFs which were transfected with TCF21 cDNA. Furthermore, when TCF21 cDNA was transfected into CAFs, IR-induced DNA damage was increased while DNA repair was inhibited in CAFs, suggesting that TCF21 was involved in DNA damage response of CAFs following IR. FCM analysis showed that up-regulation of TCF21 expression promoted IR-induced apoptotic death of CAFs.

CONCLUSION

TCF21 is a determinant of the malignant phenotype of CAFs in ESCC. Up-regulation of TCF21 expression is a promising approach of inhibiting the growth, migration and invasion, activation and radioresistance of CAFs in ESCC.

An Online AI-Powered Interactive Histological Image Annotation Platform for Analyzing Intestinal Regenerating Crypts in Post-Irradiated Mice

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

The goal of this project is to build an online AI-powered interactive annotation platform to accurately and efficiently annotate intestinal regenerating crypts in histological images of mice after abdominal irradiation.

MATERIALS/METHODS

The proposed platform is developed by the seamless integration of a front-end web client and a back-end server. Such client/server design allows the users to access the platform without software installation on local computers. Our front-end client is developed with SvelteJS + WebGL technology stack, allowing access from any common web browsers and enabling user interaction, such as image importing/visualization, interactive crypt annotating, and annotation saving/deleting. The back-end server is responsible for executing the tasks requested from the web client, for instance, image pre-processing, AI-based crypts automatic identification, and database management. The image preprocessing is designed to extract a single cross section image using morphological operations because multiple hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained jejunum cross sections from post-irradiated mice are scanned within one slide. The auto-crypt identification is powered by a trained and validated AI engine U-Net, classifying image grid tiles into two groups with and without regenerating crypts. The database is implemented with the self-contained SQLite to support recording and indexing the annotated grid tiles with regenerating crypts. The workflow for crypt analysis on this interactive platform has 5 steps: 1) manually import a whole H&E slide image; 2) auto-preprocess the slide by extracting single cross-section images; 3) auto-identify regenerating crypts with an AI engine; 4) interactively annotate (add, delete, modify) auto-identified crypt markers; 5) save and/or output the annotation to the database or the local drive.

RESULTS

The performance of the developed interactive crypt analysis platform was evaluated in aspects of accuracy and efficiency. The AI-powered crypt auto-identification accuracy was assessed by computing the mean absolute error (MAE) on crypt number per cross section between manual and auto annotation using a testing dataset containing 80 cross sections. It achieved an MAE of 3.5±4.8 crypts per cross section, and 81.25% of the cross sections have no more than 5 crypts difference. The efficiency was assessed under two conditions with the server on the cloud and a local computer. It took about 2-3 minutes to finish the entire workflow on the cloud, while 1-2 minutes on the local by saving ∼1 minute on image uploading.

CONCLUSION

The developed web client/server platform enables online automatic identification and interactive annotation of mice crypts in minutes. It is a convenient tool that allows accurate and efficient crypt analysis and can be extended for other histologic image analyses.

Deep Learning-Based Pipeline for Automatic Identification of Intestinal Regenerating Crypts in Mouse Histological Images

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

A classical approach for evaluating normal tissue radiation response is to count the number of intestinal regenerating crypts in mouse histological images acquired after abdominal radiation. However, manual counting is time-consuming and subject to inter-observer variations. The goal of this study is to build a deep learning-based pipeline for automatically identifying intestinal regenerating crypts to facilitate high-throughput studies.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Sixty-six healthy C57BL/6 female mice underwent 16 MeV whole abdominal electron irradiation. The small bowel was collected from each mouse 4 days post-irradiation, and 9 jejunal cross-sections from each were processed together in a single slide. The slides were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and subsequently scanned (x20), providing one electronic histological image per mouse. Regenerating crypts, consisting of more than 10 basophilic crypt epithelial cells, were manually identified using point annotations in histological images. The pipeline was built to take the input of the image containing 9 cross sections and automatically identify the regenerating crypts on each cross section. It mainly consists of two components, cross section segmentation using intensity thresholding and morphological operations and crypt identification using a UNet. The dataset was randomly split into 46, 10, and 10 slide images for UNet training, validation, and testing. Each slide image was split into grid tiles with a voxel size of 200 × 200, and 40 × 40 square masks were placed with centers at manual point annotations on tiles with regenerating crypts. 5203/5198 tiles (w/wo crypt mask) were extracted to train UNet by minimizing dice loss. The mask probability map generated by the UNet was post-processed to identify the crypt position. Postprocessing hyperparameters were tuned using the validation dataset. The model accuracy was evaluated using the testing dataset by computing the mean absolute error (MAE) of the crypt number averaged across all cross sections.

RESULTS

The number of regenerating crypts on testing cross sections ranges from 1 to 63. The testing cross-section-wise MAE achieved by the platform is 3.5±4.8 crypts. 81.25% of testing cross sections have absolute number differences less than or equal to 5 crypts.

CONCLUSION

Our established deep learning-based pipeline can accurately count the number of regenerating crypts in mouse intestinal histological images. We have integrated it into an online platform that enables automatic crypt identification and allows users to interactively modify auto-identified crypt annotations. The acquired annotations from the platform will be used to finetune the deep learning model to achieve better identification performance.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) for Brain Metastasis in the Era of Evolving Systemic Treatment (Immunotherapy or Targeted Therapy) in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

With evolving role for targeted and immunomodulatory agents, the survival rate of NSCLC has been improved even with brain metastasis. This study analyzed the outcome of brain metastasis treated with SRS in conjunction with immunotherapy and target therapy as well as chemotherapy.

MATERIALS/METHODS

After obtaining institutional review board (IRB) approval, 229 patients with NSCLC with brain metastasis treated with SRS at our institution were retrospectively reviewed from 2008-2021. Demographic information (e.g., age, sex, race), performance status (PS), extracranial metastasis (ECM), sequence of systemic therapy (SST) and surgery for BM (SBM) were reviewed and collected. Overall survival (OS) and intracranial recurrence free survival (ICRFS) were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method/Cox regression, and time to each event were measured from the date of the first SRS treatment. All statistical analyses were performed using SAS version 9.4 (Carey, NC).

RESULTS

Of the 229 pts, the median age of pts at first SRS was 64.1 (range, 34.8- 83.0 years). 38.6% were biomarker (EGFR/ALK/ROS/PDL1) positive, and 30% were PDL1 positive. 28.8 % had surgery before SRS. The median number of SRS was 1 (range, 1 - 6), and 10 patients received salvage whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) after SRS. With a median follow-up of 9.6 months (mo), median OS and ICRFS were 14.0 mo and 8.1 mo respectively. On univariate outcome analysis, PS, ECM, SBM and PDL1 were associated with OS while biomarker, SBM and SST were closely related to ICRFS. Pts with poor PS had worse median OS of 8.3 mo compared to 29.1 mo with good PS (p = 0.001). Median OS for no ECM vs. ECM were 20.7 mo vs. 9.6 mo respectively (p = 0.002). Patients who underwent SBM initially had better median OS of 28.7 mo compared to 9.9 mo without SBM (p<0.001). There was a trend of significant impact of positive PDL1 on median OS (21.1 mo vs. 11.7 mo, p = 0.06). Similarly, SBM was found closely related to ICRFS with median ICRFS of 8.1 mo vs. 4.9 mo for those with and without SBM respectively. Both positive biomarker (13.1 mo vs. 6.4 mo, P = 0.17) and SRS first SST (8.1 mo vs. 4.9 mo, p = 0.11) demonstrated a trend of increased median ICRFS. On multivariable analyses, no SBM was linked with worse OS (HR: 1.85; 95% CI:1.15 - 2.97; p = 0.01) and decreased ICRFS (HR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.09 - 2.51; p = 0.02). Of 31 pts with information on cause of death, 3.2% died from brain metastasis related cause.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated effective treatment of brain metastasis in NSCLC with multiple SRSs, especially for patients with favorable prognosis. Of noticed there was only a small number of patients received salvage WBRT and most patients didn't die from brain metastasis related progression.

Combining Dosimetric and Radiomics Features for the Prediction of Radiation Pneumonitis in Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer by Machine Learning

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

This study aimed to analyze the dosimetric factors and radiomics features of tumor and lungs in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LANSCLC) to establish machine learning models and improve the prediction of grade (G) 2 radiation pneumonitis (RP).

MATERIALS/METHODS

This study retrospectively collected data of 284 LANSCLC patients underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) to a median dose of 64 Gy in 20-33 fractions between 2013 and 2021. Of this cohort, 21.1% of patients had ≥ G2 RP. There were 4 regions of interest (ROIs) had been identified in planning computed tomography images: gross tumor volume (GTV), ipsilesional lung (IL), contralesional lung (CL), and total lung (TL). We calculated the dose-volume histogram (DVH) from the lowest dose to the maximum dose increasing by degrees with 1 Gy, and extracted a total of 172 radiomics features from all the 4 ROIs. We selected the best predictors for classifying 2 groups of patients using a sequential backward elimination support vector machine model.

RESULTS

The best predictors for ≥ G2 RP were the combination of 8 radiomics features and 7 dosimetric factors in training group, and the validation group achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.847 (accuracy, 80.38%; sensitivity, 78.95%; specificity, 81.82%). The eight radiomic features included 2 from GTV while 1, 2 and 3 from IL, CL and TL, respectively. For dosimetric factors, V65 of GTV, V20, V50 and V55 of IL, V10 of CL, V20 and V55 of TL appeared to be significantly related to symptomatic RP. These dosimetric factors should be constrained to less than 99.2%, 50.0%, 17.5%, 13.0%, 39.5%, 32.0%, and 6.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Combining dosimetric factors and radiomics features within GTV, IL, CL and TL can improve the prediction of symptomatic RP in LANSCLC patients treated with CCRT. The results suggested the importance of V65 of GTV, V20, V50 and V55 of IL, V10 of CL, V20 and V55 of TL as predictors of symptomatic RP and provide useful information for optimization of treatment planning in the era of combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy.

Retraction Note: Effect of atorvastatin on pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

The article "Effect of atorvastatin on pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway", by Y.-Y. Wang, X.-D. Cheng, H. Jiang, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2019; 23 (23): 10549-10556-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_201912_19696-PMID: 31841211 has been retracted by the Authors. After publication, issues were raised on PubPeer about the reliability of the published results, in particular, of Figures 2 and 3. The authors stated that the article presents some inaccuracies as the data cannot be repeated by further research. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/19696.

Preparation, Chromatic Properties Analysis and Proportioning Optimization of Co-Cr-Fe-Based Black Pigment

The utilization of Co-Cr-Fe-based black pigments bears considerable significance within the realm of commercial ceramic pigments, owing to their distinctive spinel structure, remarkable high-temperature stability, and exceptional chromatic attributes. This study delves into the synthesis of diverse black pigment configurations by employing the co-precipitation method, leveraging the interplay of these three metallic oxides. This investigation encompasses a comprehensive scrutiny of ion valences, crystal structures and parameters, colorimetric properties, and their interrelationships. The methodology integrates the response surface methodology (RSM) framework, using theoretical formulations to navigate the material ratios and elucidating the associations between the resultant compositions and color coordinate values, aligned with the CIE-Lab* colorimetric methodology. The derived predictive models yielded an optimized black pigment composition, characterized by heightened black intensity and a refined formulation.

[Clinical characteristics of 42 children with focal atrial tachycardia originated from the right atrial appendage]

Objective: To investigate the feature and treatment of atrial tachycardia (AT) originated from right atrial appendage (RAA) in children. Methods: The data of 42 children with AT originated from RAA, who were admitted the First Hospital of Tsinghua University from January 2010 to September 2022 were analyzed retrospectively.The clinical characteristics, treatment and efficacy were analyzed. The children were divided into tachycardia cardiomyopathy group and normal cardiac function group. The differences in the ablation age and the heart rate during AT between two groups were compared by independent sample t-test. Results: Among 42 children, there were 20 males and 22 females. The age of onset was 2.7 (0.6, 5.1) years. Their age at radiofrequency ablation was (6.5±3.6) years, and the weight was (23.4±10.0) kg. Thirty-two children (76%) had sustained AT. The incidence of tachycardia cardiomyopathy was 43% (18/42). Compared to that of the normal cardiac function group, the ablation age and the heart rate at atrial tachycardia of the tachycardia cardiomyopathy group were higher ((8.1±3.8) vs. (5.3±3.1) years, t=-2.63, P=0.012; (173±41) vs. (150±30) beats per minute, t=-2.05, P=0.047. Thirty-eight children (90%) responded poorly to two or more antiarrhythmic drugs. The immediate success rate of radiofrequency ablation (RFCA) was 57% (24/42), and the AT recurrence rate was 17% (4/24). Twenty-two children underwent RAA resection, and their AT were all converted to sinus rhythm after the surgery. During the RAA resection, 10 cases of right atrial appendage aneurysm were found, 9/18 of which failed the RFCA. Conclusions: The AT originated from the RAA in children tend to present with sustained AT, respond poorly to antiarrhythmic drugs, and has a low success rate of RFCA as well as high recurrence rate. Resection of the RAA is a safe and effective complementary treatment.

The Preparation, Structural Design, and Application of Electroactive Poly(vinylidene fluoride)-Based Materials for Wearable Sensors and Human Energy Harvesters

Owing to their biocompatibility, chemical stability, film-forming ability, cost-effectiveness, and excellent electroactive properties, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and PVDF-based polymers are widely used in sensors, actuators, energy harvesters, etc. In this review, the recent research progress on the PVDF phase structures and identification of different phases is outlined. Several approaches for obtaining the electroactive phase of PVDF and preparing PVDF-based nanocomposites are described. Furthermore, the potential applications of these materials in wearable sensors and human energy harvesters are discussed. Finally, some challenges and perspectives for improving the properties and boosting the applications of these materials are presented.

[Advances in clinical application of electrical impedance tomography to evaluate pulmonary perfusion in critically ill patients]

Lung perfusion monitoring can provide accurate information on changes in pulmonary blood flow in critically ill patients, and thus help guide clinical diagnosis and treatment. However, due to inconveniences such as patient transport, conventional imaging techniques are unable to meet the demand for real-time monitoring of lung perfusion, more convenient and reliable real-time functional imaging techniques should be developed to optimise cardiopulmonary management in critically ill patients. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive, radiation-free, bedside functional imaging technique that can be used to assess lung perfusion in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, pulmonary embolisms and other conditions, thereby assisting with the diagnosis of disease, the adjustment of treatment protocols, and the assessment of treatment outcomes. In this review, we focused on advances in EIT for lung perfusion monitoring in critically ill patients.

[Optimization of the medium and fermentation condition for the Penicillium aurantiocandidum Z12 strain with molluscicidal actions against Oncomelania hupensis]

OBJECTIVE

To optimize the culture and fermentation conditions of the Penicillium aurantiocandidum Z12 strain, a fungal strain with molluscicidal actions against Oncomelania hupensis, so as to provide the basis for the research and development of molluscicidal active substances from the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain and its fermentation broth and large-scale fermentation.

METHODS

The carbon source, nitrogen source and mineral salts were identified in the optimal culture medium for the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain with a single-factor experiment to determine the best fermentation condition for the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain. Factors that significantly affected the growth of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain were identified using the Plackett-Burman design, and the best range of each factor was determined using the steepest climb test. Response surface analyses of temperature, pH value, seeding amount and liquid-filling quantity were performed using the Box-Behnken design to create a regression model for fermentation of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain to identify the optimal culture medium.

RESULTS

Single-factor experiment preliminarily identified the best culture medium and conditions for the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain as follows: sucrose as the carbon source at approximately 20 g/L, tryptone as the nitrogen source at approximately 5 g/L, K₂HPO₄ as the mineral salt at approximately 5 g/L, initial pH at approximately 8, temperature at approximately 28 °C, seeding amount at approximately 6%, and liquid-filling quantity at approximately 50 mL/100 mL. Plackett-Burman design showed that factors that significantly affected the growth of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain included temperature (t = -5.28, P < 0.05), seeding amount (t = 5.22, P < 0.05), pH (t = -4.30, P < 0.05) and liquid-filling quantity (t = -4.39, P < 0.05). Steepest climb test showed the highest mycelial growth at pH of 7.5, seeding amount of 8%, and liquid-filling quantity of 40 mL/100 mL, and this condition was selected as the central point of response surface analysis for the subsequent optimization of fermentation conditions. Response surface analyses using the Box-Behnken design showed that the optimal conditions for fermentation of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain included sucrose at 15 g/L, tryptone at 5 g/L, K₂HPO₄ at 5 g/L, temperature at 28.2 °C, pH at 7.5, seeding amount at 10%, and liquid-filling quantity at 35.8 mL/100.0 mL, resulting in 0.132 g yield of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain.

CONCLUSIONS

The optimal culture condition for the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain has been identified, and the optimized culture medium and fermentation condition may effectively improve the fermentation yield of the P. aurantiocandidum Z12 strain.

Residual Strain Evolution Induced by Crystallization Kinetics During Anti-Solvent Spin Coating in Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHP) polycrystalline thin films are attractive due to their outstanding photoelectronic properties. The anti-solvent spin coating method is the most widely used to synthesize these thin films, and the residual strain is inevitably originates and evolves during the process. However, this residual strain evolution induced by crystallization kinetics is still poorly understood. In this work, the in situ and ex situ synchrotron grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS) are utilized to characterize the evolution and distribution of the residual strain in the OIHP polycrystalline thin film during the anti-solvent spin coating process. A mechanical model is established and the mechanism of the crystallization kinetics-induced residual strain evolution process is discussed. This work reveals a comprehensive understanding of the residual strain evolution during the anti-solvent spin coating process in the OIHP polycrystalline thin films and provides important guidelines for the residual strain-related strain engineering, morphology control, and performance enhancement.

COVID-19 pandemic and neonatal birth weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Lockdown was implemented in many countries during the pandemic, which led to myriad changes in pregnant women's lives. However, the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on neonatal outcomes remain unclear. We aimed to evaluate the association between the pandemic and neonatal birth weight.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of the previous literature.

METHODS

We searched the MEDLINE and Embase databases up to May 2022 and extracted 36 eligible studies that compared neonatal birth weight between the pandemic and the prepandemic period. The following outcomes were included: mean birth weight, low birth weight (LBW), very low birth weight (VLBW), macrosomia, small for gestational age (SGA), very small for gestational age (VSGA), and large for gestational age (LGA). Statistical heterogeneity among studies was assessed to determine whether a random effects model or fixed effects model was conducted.

RESULTS

Of the 4514 studies identified, 36 articles were eligible for inclusion. A total of 1,883,936 neonates during the pandemic and 4,667,133 neonates during the prepandemic were reported. We identified a significant increase in mean birth weight (pooled mean difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 15.06 [10.36, 19.76], I² = 0.0%, 12 studies) and a reduction in VLBW (pooled OR [95% CI] = 0.86 [0.77, 0.97], I² = 55.4%, 12 studies). No overall effect was identified for other outcomes: LBW, macrosomia, SGA, VSGA, and LGA. There was publication bias for mean birth weight with a borderline significance (Egger's P = 0.050).

CONCLUSION

Pooled results showed the pandemic was significantly associated with an increase in mean birth weight and a reduction in VLBW, but not for other outcomes. This review provided clues about the indirect effects of the pandemic on neonatal birth weight and more healthcare measures needed to improve neonatal long-term health.

First-in-human, phase I study of AK109, an anti-VEGFR2 antibody in patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors

BACKGROUND

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) plays a key role in antiangiogenesis which has been an essential strategy for cancer treatment. We report the first-in-human study of AK109, a novel anti-VEGFR2 monoclonal antibody, to characterize the safety profile and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) properties, and explore the preliminary antitumor efficacy in patients with solid tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a multicenter, open-label, phase I study, including dose escalation and dose expansion (NCT04547205). Patients with advanced cancers were treated 2 and 3 weekly with escalating doses of AK109. A 3 + 3 design was used to determine the maximum tolerated dose. Blood was sampled for PK/PD analysis. The primary endpoint was safety and recommended phase II dose (RP2D).

RESULTS

A total of 40 patients were enrolled. No dose-limiting toxicity was observed. However, 38 patients reported treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs); grade ≥3 TRAEs occurred in 10 patients. The most common TRAEs were proteinuria (n = 24, 60%), hypertension (n = 13, 32.5%), increased aspartate transaminase (n = 11, 27.5%), thrombopenia (n = 10, 25%), and anemia (n = 10, 25%). A total of 28 patients (70%) reported adverse events of special interest (AESIs). The most common AESIs were proteinuria (60%), hypertension (32.5%), and hemorrhage (32.5%), mainly including gum bleeding and urethrorrhagia. AK109 exhibited an approximately linear PK exposure with dose escalation at 2-12 mg/kg. PD analyses showed rapid target engagement. Among the 40 patients, 4 achieved partial response and 21 achieved stable disease with an objective response rate of 10% and a disease control rate of 62.5%. Based on the safety profile, the PK/PD profile, and preliminary antitumor activities, 12 mg/kg Q2W and 15 mg/kg Q3W were selected as RP2D.

CONCLUSIONS

AK109 showed manageable safety profile and promising antitumor activity, supporting further clinical development in a large population.

[Treatment responses, outcomes, and prognostic factors associated with them in patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia]

Objective: To evaluate treatment responses, outcomes, and prognostic factors in adults with secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML) . Methods: Between January 2008 and February 2021, date of consecutive cases of younger than 65 years of adults with sAML were assessed retrospectively. Clinical characteristics at diagnosis, treatment responses, recurrence, and survival were evaluated. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model were employed to determine significant prognostic indicators for treatment response and survival. Results: 155 patients were recruited, including 38, 46, 57, 14 patients belonging to t-AML, and AML with unexplained cytopenia, post-MDS-AML, and post-MPN-AML, respectively. In the 152 evaluable patients, the rate of MLFS after the initial induction regimen was 47.4%, 57.9%, 54.3%, 40.0%, and 23.1% in the four groups (P=0.076) . The total rate of MLFS after the induction regimen was 63.8%, 73.3%, 69.6%, 58.2%, and 38.5% (P=0.084) , respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that male gender (OR=0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.9, P=0.038 and OR=0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.8, P=0.015) , SWOG cytogenetic classification into unfavorable or intermediate (OR=0.1, 95% CI 0.1-0.6, P=0.014 and OR=0.1, 95% CI 0.1-0.3, P=0.004) and receiving low-intensity regimen as induction regimen (OR=0.1, 95% CI 0.1-0.3, P=0.003 and OR=0.1, 95%CI 0.1-0.2, P=0.001) were typical adverse factors impacting the first CR and the final CR; PLT<45 × 10(9)/L (OR=0.4, 95%CI 0.2-0.9, P=0.038) and LDH ≥258 U/L (OR=0.3, 95%CI 0.1-0.7, P=0.005) were independent factors for CR. Among the 94 patients with achieving MLFS, 46 cases had allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. With a median follow-up period of 18.6 months, the probabilities of relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) at 3 years were 25.4% and 37.3% in patients with transplantation, and in patients with chemotherapy, the probabilities of RFS and OS at 3-year were 58.2% and 64.3%, respectively. At the time of achieving MLFS, multivariate analysis revealed that age ≥46 years (HR=3.4, 95%CI 1.6-7.2, P=0.002 and HR=2.5, 95%CI 1.1-6.0, P=0.037) , peripheral blasts ≥17.5% at diagnosis (HR=2.5, 95%CI 1.2-4.9, P=0.010 and HR=4.1, 95%CI 1.7-9.7, P=0.002) , monosomal karyotypes (HR=4.9, 95%CI 1.2-19.9, P=0.027 and HR=28.3, 95%CI 4.2-189.5, P=0.001) were typical adverse factors influencing RFS and OS. Furthermore, CR after induction chemotherapy (HR=0.4, 95%CI 0.2-0.8, P=0.015) and transplantation (HR=0.4, 95%CI 0.2-0.9, P=0.028) were substantially linked to longer RFS. Conclusion: Post-MDS-AML and post-MPN-AML had lower response rates and poorer prognoses than t-AML and AML with unexplained cytopenia. In adults with male gender, low platelet count, high LDH, and SWOG cytogenetic classification into unfavorable or intermediate at diagnosis, and receiving low-intensity regimen as the induction regimen predicted a low response rate. Age ≥46 years, a higher proportion of peripheral blasts and monosomal karyotype had a negative effect on the overall outcome. Transplantation and CR after induction chemotherapy were greatly linked to longer RFS.

[A pre-conception cohort study of fertility and its related factors among couples with the intention of conception]

Objective: To describe fertility and explore factors associated with it among pre-conception couples of childbearing age. Methods: Based on the pre-conceptional offspring trajectory study of the School of Public Health of Fudan University, couples of childbearing age who participated in the pre-conception physical examination in Shanghai Jiading District from 2016 to 2021 were recruited and followed up. Couples' time to pregnancy (TTP) was analyzed and Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to explore the factors associated with TTP. Kaplan-Meier was used to calculate each menstrual cycle's cumulative pregnancy rate. Results: A total of 1 095 preconception couples were included in the analysis, the M(Q₁,Q₃)of TTP was 4.33 (2.41, 9.78) menstrual cycles. Age of women (FR=0.90, 95%CI: 0.85-0.95, P<0.001), women who were overweight or obese before pregnancy (FR=0.36, 95%CI: 0.24-0.55, P<0.001), women who were exposed to second-hand smoking (FR=0.63, 95%CI: 0.44-0.92, P=0.016), women whose home or office had been renovated in the past 2 years and had a particular smell (FR=0.46, 95%CI: 0.26-0.81, P=0.008) were risk factors for impaired fertility. Regular menstrual cycles (FR=1.64, 95%CI: 1.16-2.31, P=0.005), females who often drank tea/coffee (FR=1.55, 95%CI: 1.11-2.17, P=0.011) and males who took folic acid before conception (FR=2.35, 95%CI: 1.38-4.23, P=0.002) were associated with better fertility. The cumulative pregnancy rate of 3, 6, and 12 menstrual cycles was 37.6%, 64.4%, and 78.4%, respectively. Conclusion: Older couples, overweight or obesity before pregnancy, irregular menstruation, exposure to secondhand smoke and decoration pollutants in females are associated with impaired fertility. Frequent tea/coffee drinking before pregnancy in females and taking folic acid before pregnancy in males are associated with shortened conception time.

Prodigiosin improves acute lung injury in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis via down-regulating the nuclear factor kappaB/nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 signaling pathway

Prodigiosin (PRO) is a natural pigment that possesses multiple activities, covering anti-tumor, anti-bacteria, and immunosuppression. This study is committed to an investigation into the underlying function and the certain mechanism of PRO in acute lung damage followed by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) method was implemented to trigger a rat lung injury model, and a rat RA model was constructed with the help of rheumatoid arthritis induced by collagen. Prodigiosin was administered to intervene in the rats' lung tissues post-treatment. The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 were determined. Western blot was carried out to detect anti-surfactant protein A (SPA), anti-surfactant protein D (SPD), apoptosis-concerned proteins (Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, Bcl-2, and pro-caspase-3), the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3)/apoptosis-concerned speckle-like protein (ASC)/caspase-1 signaling pathway. The apoptosis of pulmonary epithelial tissues was checked via TUNEL assay, as corresponding kits were adopted to confirm the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the levels of oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Prodigiosin ameliorated the pathological damage of CLP rats. Prodigiosin alleviated the production of inflammatory and oxidative stress mediators. In the RA rats with acute lung injury, prodigiosin hampered apoptosis in the lung. Mechanistically, prodigiosin hinders the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling axis. In conclusion: prodigiosin relieves acute lung injury in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis by exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects through downregulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling axis.

Association of residential greenness with the risk of metabolic syndrome in Chinese older adults: a longitudinal cohort study

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the association between residential greenness and MetS in older Chinese adults.

METHODS

Longitudinal data on sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle were collected from the Shenzhen Healthy Ageing Research (SHARE) cohort. Greenness exposure was assessed through satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values in the 250-m, 500-m, and 1250-m radius around the residential address for each participant. MetS was defined by standard guidelines for the Chinese population.

RESULTS

A total of 49,893 older Chinese adults with a mean age of 70.96 (SD = 5.26) years were included in the study. In the fully adjusted models, participants who lived in the highest quartile of NDVI_250-m, NDVI_500-m, and NDVI_1250-m had a 15% (odds ratio, OR = 0.85, 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.80-0.90), 12% (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.83-0.93), and 11% (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.95) lower incidence of MetS, respectively, than those living in the lowest quartile (all p-_trend < 0.01). Interactions and subgroup analyses showed that age, sex, smoking status, and drinking status were significant effect modifiers (p-_interaction for all NDVI < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Residential greenness is associated with a lower risk of MetS in Chinese older adults, especially for young older adults, females, non-smokers, and non-drinkers.

Prodigiosin improves acute lung injury in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis via down-regulating the nuclear factor kappaB/nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 signaling pathway

Prodigiosin (PRO) is a natural pigment that possesses multiple activities, covering anti-tumor, anti-bacteria, and immunosuppression. This study is committed to an investigation into the underlying function and the certain mechanism of PRO in acute lung damage followed by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) method was implemented to trigger a rat lung injury model, and a rat RA model was constructed with the help of rheumatoid arthritis induced by collagen. Prodigiosin was administered to intervene in the rats' lung tissues post-treatment. The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1beta, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 were determined. Western blot was carried out to detect anti-surfactant protein A (SPA), anti-surfactant protein D (SPD), apoptosis-concerned proteins (Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, Bcl-2, and pro-caspase-3), the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB)/nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3)/apoptosis-concerned speckle-like protein (ASC)/caspase-1 signaling pathway. The apoptosis of pulmonary epithelial tissues was checked via TUNEL assay, as corresponding kits were adopted to confirm the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the levels of oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Prodigiosin ameliorated the pathological damage of CLP rats. Prodigiosin alleviated the production of inflammatory and oxidative stress mediators. In the RA rats with acute lung injury, prodigiosin hampered apoptosis in the lung. Mechanistically, prodigiosin hinders the activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling axis. In conclusion: prodigiosin relieves acute lung injury in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis by exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects through downregulating the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling axis.

Andrographolide Liquisolid using Porous-Starch as the Adsorbent with Enhanced Oral Bioavailability in Rats

Andrographolide (AGL) is the major component of Andrographispaniculata. The poor water solubility and low dissolution strongly affect its oral absorption. Liquisolid technology has been used to improve its dissolution and oral bioavailability. Liquisolid powders of AGL (AGL-LS-PSG) were obtained by firstly dissolving AGL in the mixture of NMP, PEG 6000 and Soluplus®, and solidified by absorption of the blend in porous starch. Angle of repose, Carr index and Hauser ratio presented good powder fluidity and compressibility characteristics of AGL-LS-PSG. The results of optical microscopic observation, PXRD and DSC analysis indicated that AGL has been completely adsorbed in porous starch granules and existed in an amorphous or molecularly dispersing state. AGL-LS-PSG can obviously increase the drug dissolution rate compared to commercial guttate pills and raw drug. In vivo pharmacokinetic behavior of AGL-LS-PSG was investigated following a single oral administration to rats. The C_max (0.37 ± 0.06 μg mL^-1) and AUC_0-2h (13.55 ± 2.67 μg h mL^-1) of AGL-LS-PSG were evidently increased compared to commercial guttate pills (C_max = 0.30 ± 0.21 μg mL^-1, AUC_0-2h = 9.88 ± 3.57 μg h mL^-1). This study indicated great potential of liquisolid technology in effectively improving the dissolution and bioavailability of AGL.

Contemporary review of the management of left ventricular thrombus

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) is a known complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and other cardiomyopathies. LVT increases the risk of stroke and systemic embolism, hence treatment with oral anticoagulation is indicated. While the initial treatment options for LVT is clear, the management of patients after the initial duration of anticoagulation is more complex and varied.

Purpose

We aimed to undertake a comprehensive literature review to study the currently available evidence regarding not only the initial type and duration of anticoagulation for LVT, but also potential treatment options after the initial period of anticoagulation in the setting of both LVT persistence and resolution.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to August 2022. Data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies and case series discussing management of LVT were included in this summarized synthesis.

Results

Of 2050 studies screened, 30 studies (24 observational studies, 3 case series, 2 RCTs, 1 non-randomized, open-label trial) were included. A total of 17 studies compared warfarin with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for the initial anticoagulation strategy, with the vast majority showing similar outcomes (Table 1). Half (n = 9/18) of the studies repeated imaging between 3-6 months. All studies (n=30) used transthoracic echo with or without contrast as the imaging modality of choice, with selected patients undergoing computed tomography (CT) or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). If the LVT persisted, most studies recommended continuing anticoagulation (n = 11/16, 69%) or switching to a different class of anticoagulants (n = 6/16, 38%). In the event of LVT non-resolution, high-risk features of embolization (protruding, mobile vs layered clot) may aid in the discussion of risk and benefit of long-term anticoagulation. Even upon resolution of the LVT, some studies (n=5) recommend continuing anticoagulation in the presence of high-risk features of recurrence (eg. persistently depressed left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and/or apical wall dyskinesis). Regardless, medical management should be optimized together with the appropriate revascularization strategy as clinically indicated.

Conclusions

Current evidence on the management of LVT is limited. This updated review summarizes the available evidence for the management for LVT. Evidence-based recommendations on the management of these patients is warranted to appropriately guide clinicians.

Catheter ablation vs medical therapy for treatment of atrial fibrillation patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Catheter ablation (CA) is used as a treatment option in selected patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) as studies have shown that it reduces heart failure (HF) hospitalization, improves survival, and reduces rates of AF recurrence when compared to medical therapy. However, it is not known whether this benefit persists in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Purpose

The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare CA versus medical therapy in patients with AF and HFpEF

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from August 2012 to August 2022. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs), propensity score matched (PSM) studies, and observational studies including conference abstracts providing outcomes in patients with HFpEF and AF after CA were included. Outcomes examined include all-cause mortality, HF hospitalizations, and AF recurrence. A random-effects model using R statistical software was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Of 3151 studies screened, 8 studies (1 RCT, 4 PSM, 3 observational) were included with a pooled population of 2171 and 24087 patients with AF and HFpEF who underwent CA and medical therapy respectively. There were no significant differences in baseline age (70.6 vs 70.7, p = 0.16), proportion of hypertension (85.0% vs 86.4%, p = 0.58), diabetes (33.8% vs 35.8%, p = 0.39), coronary artery disease (40.2% vs 41.8%, p = 0.06), or men (42.3 vs 36.6%, p = 0.42). After a mean weighted follow-up of 9.45 months, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (OR 0.77 [0.47-1.26], p = 0.07), HF hospitalizations (OR 0.44 [0.18-1.08], p = 0.22), but a significantly lower rate of AF recurrence (OR 0.22 [0.09-0.54], p = 0.001) associated with CA.

Conclusion

In patient with HFpEF, CA significantly reduced AF recurrence compared with medical therapy but with no difference in mortality or HF hospitalization. CA continues to have an important role to play in treatment of AF even in HFpEF patients.

Hysteresis analysis reveals dissolved carbon concentration - discharge relationships during and between storm events

The dissolved carbon concentration, which is responsible for aquatic ecosystem productivity and water quality, is tightly coupled with hydrological processes. Excess dissolved carbon may exacerbate eutrophication and hypoxia in aquatic ecosystems and lead to deterioration of water quality. Storm events dominate the dynamics of dissolved carbon concentrations, and this nonlinear behavior exhibits significant time scale dependence. Here, we identified inter- and intra-event variability in the dissolved carbon concentration-discharge (C-Q) relationship in an agriculture-intensive catchment. The driving factors of C-Q hysteresis patterns for dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and organic carbon (DOC) were quantified by redundancy analysis combined with hierarchical partitioning. At the inter-event scale, DIC exhibited mainly clockwise hysteresis, indicating an exhaustible, proximal source (e.g., groundwater). However, DOC hysteresis was generally counter-clockwise, indicating distal and plentiful sources (e.g., soil water) in the agricultural catchment. Hierarchical partitioning showed that total rainfall, peak discharge and flood intensity explained 28.38% of the total variation in C-Q hysteresis for DIC and 39.87% for DOC at the inter-event scale. At the intra-event scale, time series analysis of dissolved carbon concentration and discharge indicated the interconversion of supply limitation to transport limitation, which depends on the activation of the specific DIC or DOC source zones. These findings provide significant insights into understanding the dynamics of dissolved carbon during storm periods and are important for targeted watershed management practices aimed at reducing carbon loading to surface waters.

[Analysis of HIV transmission hotspots and characteristics of cross-regional transmission in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region based on molecular network]

Objective: To analyze HIV transmission hotspots and characteristics of cross-regional transmission in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region (Guangxi) based on the molecular network analysis, and provide evidence for optimization of precise AIDS prevention and control strategies. Methods: A total of 5 996 HIV pol sequences sampled from Guangxi between 1997 and 2020 were analyzed together with 165 534 published HIV pol sequences sampled from other regions. HIV-TRACE was used to construct molecular network in a pairwise genetic distance threshold of 0.5%. Results: The proportion of HIV sequences entering the molecular network of HIV transmission hotspots in Guangxi was 31.5% (1 886/5 996). In the molecular network of HIV cross-regional transmission, the links within Guangxi accounted for 51.6% (2 613/5 062), the links between Guangxi and other provinces in China accounted for 48.0% (2 430/5 062), and the links between Guangxi and other countries accounted for 0.4% (19/5 062). The main regions which had cross-regional linked with Guangxi were Guangdong (49.5%, 1 212/2 449), Beijing (17.5%, 430/2 449), Shanghai (6.9%, 168/2 449), Sichuan (5.7%, 140/2 449), Yunnan (4.2%, 102/2 449), Shaanxi (3.8%, 93/2 449), Zhejiang (2.8%, 69/2 449), Hainan (2.0%, 49/2 449), Anhui (1.5%, 37/2 449), Jiangsu (1.3%, 33/2 449), and other regions (each one <1.0%), respectively. The risk factors of entering the molecular network of HIV transmission hotspots in Guangxi included being aged ≥50 years (compared with being aged 25-49 years, aOR=1.68,95%CI:1.46-1.95), males (compared with females, aOR=1.21,95%CI:1.05-1.40), being single (compared with being married, aOR=1.18,95%CI:1.00-1.39), having education level of high school or above (compared with having education level of junior high school or below, aOR=1.21,95%CI:1.04-1.42), acquired HIV through homosexual intercourse (compared with acquired with HIV through heterosexual intercourse, aOR=1.77, 95%CI:1.48-2.12). The risk factors of cross-regional transmission included males (compared with females, aOR=1.74,95%CI:1.13-2.75), having education level of high school or above (compared with having education level of junior high school or below, aOR=1.96,95%CI:1.43-2.69), being freelancer/unemployed/retired (compared with being farmers, aOR=1.50,95%CI:1.07-2.11), acquired HIV through homosexual intercourse (compared with acquired with HIV through heterosexual intercourse, aOR=3.28,95%CI:2.30-4.72). Conclusion: There are HIV transmission hotspots in Guangxi. Guangxi and other provinces in China form a complex cross-regional transmission network. Future studies should carry out social network surveys in high-risk populations inferred from the molecular network analysis for the timely identification of hidden transmission chains and reduction of the second-generation transmission of HIV.

Genomic testing for copy number and single nucleotide variants in spermatogenic failure

PURPOSE

To identify clinically significant genomic copy number (CNV) and single nucleotide variants (SNV) in males with unexplained spermatogenic failure (SPGF).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Peripheral blood DNA from 97/102 study participants diagnosed with oligozoospermia, severe oligozoospermia, or non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) was analyzed for CNVs via array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and SNVs using whole-exome sequencing (WES).

RESULTS

Of the 2544 CNVs identified in individuals with SPGF, > 90% were small, ranging from 0.6 to 75 kb. Thirty, clinically relevant genomic aberrations, were detected in 28 patients (~ 29%). These included likely diagnostic CNVs in 3/41 NOA patients (~ 7%): 1 hemizygous, intragenic TEX11 deletion, 1 hemizygous DDX53 full gene deletion, and 1 homozygous, intragenic STK11 deletion. High-level mosaicism for X chromosome disomy (~ 10% 46,XY and ~ 90% 47,XXY) was also identified in 3 of 41 NOA patients who previously tested normal with conventional karyotyping. The remaining 24 CNVs detected were heterozygous, autosomal recessive carrier variants. Follow-up WES analysis confirmed 8 of 27 (30%) CNVs (X chromosome disomy excluded). WES analysis additionally identified 13 significant SNVs and/or indels in 9 patients (~ 9%) including X-linked AR, KAL1, and NR0B1 variants.

CONCLUSION

Using a combined genome-wide aCGH/WES approach, we identified pathogenic and likely pathogenic SNVs and CNVs in 15 patients (15%) with unexplained SPGF. This value equals the detection rate of conventional testing for aneuploidies and is considerably higher than the prevalence of Y chromosome microdeletions. Our results underscore the importance of comprehensive genomic analysis in emerging diagnostic testing of complex conditions like male infertility.