Alteration in Microcirculation With Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Study of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) is commonly used in clinical practice to detect tumor blood supply, and it has recently been applied to assess skeletal vasculature. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed DCE-MRI data from 37 patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head to evaluate alterations in microvascular circulation of the femoral head. Time-intensity curves (TICs) in the region of interest were classified into different lesion stages. In the greater trochanter area, extracellular space volume per unit volume of tissue was significantly higher in Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) stage III than in ARCO stage II (P<.05 and power ≥ 0.8), while other parameters showed no statistical difference (P>.05 and/or power < 0.8). In the necrotic area, contrast enhancement ratio and maximum slope of increase were significantly lower in ARCO stage III than in ARCO stage II (P<.05 and power ≥ 0.8), while other parameters showed no statistical difference (P>.05 and/or power < 0.8). In the repair reaction area, all parameters were significantly higher in ARCO stage III than in ARCO stage II (P<.05 and power ≥ 0.8). TIC classification showed that the greater trochanter area mainly exhibited type C (plateau type), the necrotic area mainly exhibited type B (out-flow type), and the repair reaction area mainly exhibited type A (inflow type). We believe that the exchange capacity of the vessels has a much greater impact on femoral head necrosis than the number of vessels, while the generation of the repair area greatly affects the prognosis of femoral head necrosis. These findings suggest that DCE-MRI can provide a good assessment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head perfusion and can serve as a new reference for clinical treatment decisions. [Orthopedics. 2024;47(2):e73-e78.].

[Analysis of the prognosis and survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure]

Objective: To explore the influencing factors and the impact of artificial liver treatment on the prognosis and survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Methods: Clinical data from 201 cases with ACLF from January 2016 to December 2019 was retrospectively analyzed. The survival rate was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method, the log-rank test of univariate analysis, and the multivariate analysis of the stepwise Cox regression forward method. Results: The median survival time of patients was 6 months, and the survival rates at 6, 9, and 12 months were 51.2%, 38.3%, and 29.9%, respectively. In univariate analysis, age, presence or absence of hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding, treatment method, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, and cholinesterase were associated with prognosis (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis results showed that MELD score was the main factor affecting the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients (P = 0.002). Artificial liver treatment was beneficial for the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients aged < 50 years or with a MELD score of ≥20 (P < 0.05 ). The relative risk ratio (RR) of mortality was 2.55 times higher in patients with advanced age (≥50 years old) than that of younger patients (P < 0.001). Regression analysis was performed using age as a stratification factor, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding was related to the prognosis of younger patients, while choline esterase was related to the prognosis of advanced age. Regression analysis after stratified MELD score showed that age and hypertension were related to the prognosis of patients with MELD score < 20, and treatment method and age were related to the prognosis of patients with MELD score≥20. Conclusion: Artificial liver treatment is beneficial for the 1-year prognosis of ACLF patients. Age, MELD score, hypertension, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding are independent risk factors affecting the prognosis of ACLF patients.

[Efficacy evaluation of 0.05% cyclosporine A and 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops in the treatment of severe dry eye associated with chronic graft-versus-host disease]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of 0.05% cyclosporine A and 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops in treating severe dry eye associated with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). Methods: This non-randomized concurrent control trial enrolled 83 eyes from 83 patients with cGVHD-associated severe dry eye. The treatment had two phases. During the initial shock treatment period (0-3 months), 44 patients received 0.05% cyclosporine A eye drops (4 times/day; group A) and 39 patients received 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops (twice/day; group B) alongside basic treatment. In the maintenance treatment period (3-6 months), both groups used 0.05% cyclosporine A eye drops (twice/day) and sodium hyaluronate. Examinations were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment initiation, assessing the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) score, and fluorescein tear break-up time (BUT) for efficacy. visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP) were evaluated for safety, and patients' post-medication irritation symptoms were recorded. Results: The study included 52 males and 31 females, aged (28.57±15.67) years. After 1 month of treatment, the CFS score in group A significantly decreased from 10.0 (6.0, 14.0) to 5.0 (3.0, 8.5) (P<0.001). in group B, the CFS score also significantly decreased from 10.0 (6.0, 15.0) to 6.0 (2.0, 10.0), and the BUT increased from 2.0 (1.0, 2.0) s to 2.0 (1.8, 3.3) s (P<0.001). No significant OSDI decrease was observed in either group. No significant differences were found in OSDI, CFS score, and BUT between the two groups. After 3 months, group A showed significant improvement in OSDI, CFS score, and BUT (P<0.05), while group B only demonstrated significant CFS score decrease (P<0.05). OSDI was significantly lower in group A than group B (P<0.05). No significant differences were noted in CFS score and BUT between groups. After 6 months, OSDI, CFS score, and BUT were 18.9 (9.3, 34.2), 7.0 (3.0, 8.5), and 2.0 (1.0, 3.0) s in group A, and 10.9 (3.6, 35.4), 5.5 (2.8, 10.0), and 2.0 (1.0, 10.0) s in group B. In both groups, CFS scores significantly decreased and BUT increased (P<0.05). Visual acuity improved significantly in group A at 1, 3, and 6 months (P<0.05), while no significant changes were seen in group B. Irritation symptoms were transient and self-resolving in both groups. Conclusions: Both 0.05% cyclosporine A and 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops, when combined with local glucocorticoids, exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects, effectively and safely treating severe dry eye in cGVHD patients. Although the onset of 0.05% cyclosporine A was slower than 0.1% tacrolimus, it offered more stable long-term effects and better symptom improvement.

[Review on the progress of tobacco epidemic monitoring methods]

Tobacco use is a major preventable contributor to premature death and disease globally. Tobacco epidemic monitoring plays a vital role in tobacco control, considered an essential component of tobacco control in the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and MPOWER package of tobacco control. In this paper, we reviewed the methods of tobacco monitoring worldwide, mainly including face-to-face surveys, telephone interviews, online questionnaire surveys, data sharing, model estimation, smoking cessation support, and the combination of multiple methods. Meanwhile, we analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of those monitoring methods. Tobacco monitoring methods vary in countries and regions. The review might provide a reference for tobacco epidemic monitoring in China.

Bioprospecting of Actinobacterial Diversity and Antibacterial Secondary Metabolites from the Sediments of Four Saline Lakes on the Northern Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau, known as the "Roof of the World" and "The Third Pole", harbors numerous saline lakes primarily distributed in the Northern Tibetan Plateau. However, the challenging conditions of high altitude, low oxygen level, and harsh climate have limited investigations into the actinobacteria from these saline lakes. This study focuses on investigating the biodiversity and bioactive secondary metabolites of cultivable actinobacteria isolated from the sediments of four saline lakes on the Northern Tibetan Plateau. A total of 255 actinobacterial strains affiliated with 21 genera in 12 families of 7 orders were recovered by using the pure culture technique and 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analysis. To facilitate a high-throughput bioactivity evaluation, 192 isolates underwent OSMAC cultivation in a miniaturized 24-well microbioreactor system (MATRIX cultivation). The antibacterial activity of crude extracts was then evaluated in a 96-well plate antibacterial assay. Forty-six strains demonstrated antagonistic effects against at least one tested pathogen, and their underlying antibacterial mechanisms were further investigated through a dual-fluorescent reporter assay (pDualrep2). Two Streptomyces strains (378 and 549) that produce compounds triggering DNA damage were prioritized for subsequent chemical investigations. Metabolomics profiling involving HPLC-UV/vis, UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, and molecular networking identified three types of bioactive metabolites belonging to the aromatic polyketide family, i.e., cosmomycin, kidamycin, and hedamycin. In-depth analysis of the metabolomic data unveiled some potentially novel anthracycline compounds. A genome mining study based on the whole-genome sequences of strains 378 and 549 identified gene clusters potentially responsible for cosmomycin and kidamycin biosynthesis. This work highlights the effectiveness of combining metabolomic and genomic approaches to rapidly identify bioactive chemicals within microbial extracts. The saline lakes on the Northern Tibetan Plateau present prospective sources for discovering novel actinobacteria and biologically active compounds.

Mechanisms of Chinese Medicine in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Treatment: Data Mining and Systematic Pharmacology Study

OBJECTIVE

To identify specific Chinese medicines (CMs) that may benefit patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and explore the action mechanism.

METHODS

Domestic and foreign literature on the treatment of GERD with CMs was searched and selected from China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, Wanfang Database, and PubMed from October 1, 2011 to October 1, 2021. Data from all eligible articles were extracted to establish the database of CMs for GERD. Apriori algorithm of data mining techniques was used to analyze the rules of herbs selection and core Chinese medicine formulas were identified. A system pharmacology approach was used to explore the action mechanism of these medicines.

RESULTS

A total of 278 prescriptions for GERD were analyzed, including 192 CMs. Results of Apriori algorithm indicated that Evodiae Fructus and Coptidis Rhizoma were the highest confidence combination. A total of 32 active ingredients and 66 targets were screened for the treatment of GERD. Enrichment analysis showed that the mechanisms of action mainly involved pathways in cancer, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, advanced glycation end product (AGE), the receptor for AGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, bladder cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.

CONCLUSION

Evodiae Fructus and Coptidis Rhizoma are the core drugs in the treatment of GERD and the potential mechanism of action of these medicines includes potential target and pathways.

Diagnostic performance of texture analysis in the differential diagnosis of perianal fistulising Crohn’s disease and glandular anal fistula

BACKGROUND

Perianal fistulising Crohn's disease (PFCD) and glandular anal fistula have many similarities on conventional magnetic resonance imaging. However, many patients with PFCD show concomitant active proctitis, but only few patients with glandular anal fistula have active proctitis.

AIM

To explore the value of differential diagnosis of PFCD and glandular anal fistula by comparing the textural feature parameters of the rectum and anal canal in fat suppression T2-weighted imaging (FS-T2WI).

METHODS

Patients with rectal water sac implantation were screened from the first part of this study (48 patients with PFCD and 22 patients with glandular anal fistula). Open-source software ITK-SNAP (Version 3.6.0, http://www.itksnap.org/) was used to delineate the region of interest (ROI) of the entire rectum and anal canal wall on every axial section, and then the ROIs were input in the Analysis Kit software (version V3.0.0.R, GE Healthcare) to calculate the textural feature parameters. Textural feature parameter differences of the rectum and anal canal wall between the PFCD group vs the glandular anal fistula group were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test. The redundant textural parameters were screened by bivariate Spearman correlation analysis, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to establish the model of textural feature parameters. Finally, diagnostic accuracy was assessed by receiver operating characteristic-area under the curve (AUC) analysis.

RESULTS

In all, 385 textural parameters were obtained, including 37 parameters with statistically significant differences between the PFCD and glandular anal fistula groups. Then, 16 texture feature parameters remained after bivariate Spearman correlation analysis, including one histogram parameter (Histogram energy); four grey level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) parameters (GLCM energy_all direction_offset1_SD, GLCM entropy_all direction_ offset4_SD, GLCM entropy_all direction_offset7_SD, and Haralick correlation_all direction_ offset7_SD); four texture parameters (Correlation_all direction_offset1_SD, cluster prominence _angle 90_offset4, Inertia_all direction_offset7_SD, and cluster shade_angle 45_offset7); five grey level run-length matrix parameters (grey level nonuniformity_angle 90_offset1, grey level nonuniformity_all direction_offset4_SD, long run high grey level emphasis_all direction_offset1_SD, long run emphasis_all direction_ offset4_ SD, and long run high grey level emphasis_all direction_offset4_SD); and two form factor parameters (surface area and maximum 3D diameter). The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the model of textural feature parameters were 0.917, 85.42%, and 86.36%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The model of textural feature parameters showed good diagnostic performance for PFCD. The texture feature parameters of the rectum and anal canal in FS-T2WI are helpful to distinguish PFCD from glandular anal fistula.

[Effect of health management service for hypertension patients under framework of Basic Public Health Service Project: a regression discontinuity design]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of health management service on hypertension patients (HMSFHP) under the framework of the Basic Public Health Service Project by using regression discontinuity design. Methods: The participants were enrolled from an observational cohort survey in 2015 and followed up was conducted in 2019. The participants with SBP 130-150 mmHg and/or DBP 80-100 mmHg in the baseline survey of the cohort in 2015 were included in the present study. Additionally, we obtained the dates of participants receiving HMSFHP and their blood pressure data from follow-up records, physical examination records and telephone interview. The participants were divided into intervention group and control group based on the cutoff points, i.e. SBP ≥140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥90 mmHg. The local linear regression model were used to estimate the effect of HMSFHP on reducing blood pressure of the participants. Results: After adjusting for age, sex and time length of receiving HMSFHP, the results of the model including participants with 80-100 mmHg for DBP in 2015 indicated that, for the participants who received HMSFHP, the DBP decreased by 6.66 mmHg from 2015 to 2019. For the participants with SBP 130-150 mmHg in 2015, the reduction estimate of the model was -6.17 mmHg, the difference was not significant (P=0.178), suggesting that receiving HMSFHP did not cause change in SBP for the participants who received HMSFHP. Conclusion: Receiving HMSFHP had effect to reduce DBP, and HMSFHP had a positive effect on the control of blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

Georgenia halotolerans sp. nov., a halotolerant actinobacterium isolated from Taklamakan desert soil

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore-forming and rod-shaped actinobacterium, designated strain 10Sc9-8^T, was isolated from Taklamakan desert soil sampled in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. Strain 10Sc9-8^T grew at 8‒37 °C (optimum, 28‒30 °C), pH 6.0‒10.0 (optimum, pH 7.0-8.0) and in the presence of 0‒15 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0-3 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence suggested that strain 10Sc9-8^T was affiliated with members of the genus Georgenia and showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to Georgenia yuyongxinii Z443^T (97.4 %). Phylogenomic analysis based on the whole genome sequences indicated that strain 10Sc9-8^T should be assigned into the genus Georgenia. The average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values calculated from the whole genome sequences indicated that strain 10Sc9-8^T was clearly separated from other closely related species of the genus Georgenia with values below the thresholds for species delineation. Chemotaxonomic analyses showed that the cell-wall peptidoglycan was in a variant of A4α type with an interpeptide bridge comprising l-Lys-l-Ala-Gly-l-Asp. The predominant menaquinone was MK-8(H₄). The polar lipids comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, several unidentified phospholipids, glycolipids and one unidentified lipid. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C_15 : 0, anteiso-C_15 : 1 A and C_16 : 0. The genomic DNA G+C content was 72.7 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, phylogenetic and phylogenomic data, strain 10Sc9-8^T represents a novel species of the genus Georgenia, for which the name Georgenia halotolerans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 10Sc9-8^T (=JCM 33946^T=CPCC 206219^T).

[Potential short-term effects of tobacco control scheme under various application scenarios of tobacco control measures across the globe: a Meta-analysis]

Objective: based on summarizing the simulation and prediction of tobacco control measures across the globe and sorting out the various scenarios of tobacco control measures, the potential short-term effects of seven tobacco control measures in different scenarios were systematically analyzed. Methods: Until April 2022, PubMed, Embase, EconLit, PsychINFO, and CINAHL databases were used to retrieve literature about tobacco control measures simulation and prediction models across the globe. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly followed. Meta-analysis for the potential short-term effects of seven tobacco control measures in different scenarios was performed using the R software. Results: A total of 22 papers covering 16 countries were selected. Five studies were conducted in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Italy. There were all papers with the measures to tax increases, smoke-free air laws, and mass media campaigns, 21 papers with youth access restrictions, 20 with marketing restrictions, and 19 with cessation treatment programs and health warnings. The tax increases had diverse influences on the price elasticity of different age groups. The price elasticity in the age group 15-17 years was the highest, which was 0.044 (95%CI: 0.038-0.051). The potential short-term effects of smoke-free air laws in workplaces were higher than in restaurants and other indoor public places. The effects of youth access restrictions were greater in the age group <16 years than in the age group 16-17. The stronger the implementation of other measures, the greater the potential short-term effects. A comparison of seven tobacco control measures showed that the cessation treatment programs increase in cessation rate was the highest, 0.404 (95%CI: 0.357-0.456). The reduction in smoking rate and reduction in initiation rate of youth access restrictions strongly enforced and publicized was the highest in the age group <16 years, 0.292 (95%CI: 0.269-0.315), and 0.292 (95%CI: 0.270-0.316). Conclusions: The potential short-term effects of seven tobacco control measures in different scenarios were evaluated more accurately and objectively through Meta-analysis. In the short term, cessation treatment programs will substantially increase smoking cessation rates, and strong youth access enforcement will sharply reduce smoking and initiation rates among adolescents under 16. These results also offer strong data-related support for the simulation and prediction of tobacco control measures in China and other countries.

[Correlation of muscle strength with cognitive function and medial temporal lobe atrophy in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease]

Objective: To analyze the correlation of muscle strength with cognitive function and medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: General information, sarcopenia-related indicators, neuropsychological tests and MTA score were collected in 80 confirmed AD patients (41 mild and 39 moderate patients) and 43 normal controls (NC) from the Memory Disorders Clinic of Department Of Neurology in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between January and December 2021. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), grip strength and 5-times sit-to-stand time and 6-m gait speed were used for assessing muscle mass, muscle strength and physical function, respectively. Cognitive function was assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale (MoCA), Memory and Executive Screening Scale (MES), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), Digital Span Test (DST) and Verbal Fluency Task (VFT), respectively. DST included Forward Digit Span Test (FDST) and Backward Digit Span Test (BDST). All the subjects underwent 3.0T coronal three-dimensional gradient echo sequence MRI. MTA scale was performed to evaluate the degree of medial temporal lobe atrophy. The differences in the sarcopenia-related indicators, cognitive score and MTA score were analyzed among the three groups, and the partial correlation analysis was performed between the inter-groups. Results: Eighty AD patients (24 males and 56 females) were included, aged (72±7) years old, with 41 mild and 39 moderate patients. Meanwhile, 43 NC included 19 males and 24 females, with a mean age of (70±6) years old. The disease duration in moderate AD patients was longer than that of mild AD patients [34.0 (25.0, 43.5) months vs 24.0 (11.0, 34.0) months, P<0.001]. The differences of sarcopenia-related indicators and MTA score among the three groups were statistically significant (all P<0.001), including 5-times sit-to-stand time [(13.6±1.8) s vs (11.5±1.7) s vs (10.3±1.9) s, P<0.001] and MTA score [2.0 (2.0, 3.0) vs 1.0 (1.0, 2.0) vs 0 (0, 0), P<0.001]. In neuropsychological tests, compared to the NC group, MMSE, MoCA, MES and VFT scores in mild and moderate AD groups were lower (all P<0.001); meanwhile, compared to the mild AD group, the moderate group had lower MMSE, MoCA, MES, DSST and VFT scores (all P<0.001). In sarcopenia-related indicators, muscle strength in particular was correlated with widespread cognitive functioning domains and MTA score in AD patients. Grip strength was positively correlated with MMSE, MoCA , MES, FDST (r=0.387, 0.418, 0.522 and 0.484, respectively, all P<0.001), DSST (r=0.327, P=0.006) and VFT score (r=0.354, P=0.003), and negatively correlated with MTA score (r=-0.631, P<0.001). 5-times sit-to-stand time was negatively correlated with MMSE, MoCA, MES, DSST, FDST, VFT score (r=-0.583, -0.587, -0.814, -0.591, -0.552 and -0.485, respectively, all P<0.001), and BDST (r=-0.355, P=0.003) strongly positively correlated with MTA score (r=0.836, P<0.001). ASMI was positively correlated with MMSE, MoCA, MES, DSST, FDST score (r=0.257, 0.238, 0.428, 0.282 and 0.364, respectively, all P<0.05), and negatively correlated with MTA score (r=-0.377, P=0.001). 6-m gait speed was positively correlated with MMSE, MoCA, MES, DSST, FDST score (r=0.419, 0.486, 0.699, 0.559 and 0.500, respectively, all P<0.001), BDST and VFT score (r=0.384、0.377, respectively, both P=0.001), and strongly negatively correlated with MTA score (r=-0.803, P<0.001). Conclusions: Patients with mild to moderate AD have widespread cognitive impairment. Muscle mass, muscle strength and physical function are all significantly impaired. Compared to muscle mass and physical function, decreased muscle strength is significantly associated with widespread cognitive decline and increased degree of medial temporal lobe atrophy.

[Smoking relapse rate and influencing factors in smokers aged 15 years and above in China]

Objective: To describe the relapse status of smokers aged ≥15 years in China, and investigate the main factors influencing their relapse behavior. Methods: The data of this study cames from the 2018 China Adult Tobacco Survey, covering 400 committees or villages in 200 districts or counties in 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) of China. The relevant data of smoking and relapsing in residents aged ≥15 years were collected by face-to-face interview. Software SAS 9.4 was used to clean and analyze the data, and logistic regression model was used to analyze the influencing factors for relapse rate. Results: A total of 19 376 questionnaires were completed, with a response rate of 91.50%. In 2018, 66.05% of smokers aged ≥15 years in China had smoking relapse, in whom 66.59% were males and 55.79% were females. In all age groups, the age group 15-24 years had the highest smoking relapse rate (82.63%). Multivariate analysis showed that the younger age 15-24 years (OR=4.618,95%CI:1.981-10.763), e-cigarette use (OR=9.782,95%CI:3.139-30.490), and tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship in the past 30 days (OR=1.710,95%CI:1.291-2.265) were associated with higher smoking relapse rate. Compared with people who were allowed smoking at home or those without smoking limit, the smoking relapse rate in people who were not allowed to smoke at home (OR=0.562, 95%CI: 0.439-0.719) or those with smoking limit (OR=0.487, 95%CI: 0.366-0.647) was lower. Conclusion: The smoking relapse rate in Chinese smokers is high, especially in young people. It is suggested to conduct targeted intervention based on the results of this study to reduce the smoking relapse rate and help achieve the smoking control goal in Healthy China 2030.

[Spectral CT multi-parameter imaging in preoperatively evaluation the status of lymphovascular and perineural invasion of gastric cancer]

Objective: To explore the application value of spectral CT multi-parameter imaging in preoperative assessment the status of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and perineural invasion (PNI) in patients with gastric cancer. Methods: A total of 62 patients who underwent energy spectral CT and with pathology confirmed gastric cancer in Lanzhou Uiversity Second Hospital from September 2020 to September 2021 were retrospectively collected, which including 46 males and 16 females, aged from 36 to 71 (57.5±9.1) years. According to the presence or absence of LVI/PNI in postoperative pathological results, they were divided into the positive group (42 cases) and the negative group (20 cases). The CT values of 40 keV and 70 keV (CT_{40 keV}, CT_{70 keV}), iodine concentration (IC), normalized iodine concentration (NIC) were measured in the arterial phase, the venous phase, and the delay phase, and the spectral curve slope of 40 keV to 70 keV (K_(40-70)) and the combined parameters (the arterial phase: AP~all, the venous phase: VP~all, the delay phase: DP~all) were calculated. Spectral parameters between the positive and negative groups were compared, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) with the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and optimal threshold were calculated for evaluating the diagnostic performance of each parameter. Results: The CT_{40 keV}, CT_{70 keV}, K_(40-70), IC, and NIC in the arterial phase and the venous phase and the CT_{70 keV} and NIC in the delay phase of the LVI/PNI-positive group were all higher than those of the negative group [the representative parameters: the arterial phase NIC 0.14±0.04 vs 0.12±0.04, the venous phase NIC 0.5(0.5, 0.6) vs 0.4(0.4, 0.5), the delay phase NIC 0.6±0.1 vs 0.5±0.1, all P<0.05]. ROC curve analysis showed that the diagnostic efficacy of the parameters of the venous phase is better than that of the arterial phase and the delay phase, and the diagnostic efficiency of the combined parameters is better than that of the individual parameters. The AUC value, sensitivity, and specificity of the most optimal parameter VP~all of the venous phase were 0.931(95%CI:0.872-0.990), 80.95%, and 95.00%, respectively. Conclusions: In the preoperative evaluation the status of the LVI and PNI in gastric cancer, the diagnostic efficacy in the venous phase parameters is better than that in the arterial phase and delay phase, and the diagnostic efficacy of combined parameters is better than that of individual parameters.

[Quit intention and smoking cessation behavior of current smokers aged 15 years and above in China, 2018]

Objective: To describe the current situation on quit intention and quit attempts among current smokers aged 15 years and above in China and explore the main factors affecting their smoking cessation behaviors. Methods: The subjects were people aged 15 years and above in China. A stratified multi-phased randomized cluster sampling method was used. The survey covered 200 districts/counties in 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government), including 19 376 people under investigation. The data were weighted with SAS 9.4 for complex sampling analysis, and the frequency and weighted component ratio were used for description. The influencing factors were studied using the Rao Scott χ² test and unconditional multivariate logistic regression. Results: Among current smokers, 6.63% reported that they planned to quit smoking in the next month, 5.44% for men and 8.49% for women. 17.96% of the current smokers made quit attempts in the past 12 months, with 17.80% men and 22.15% women. People who smoke occasionally (OR=3.42, 95%CI: 2.09-5.59) made quit attempts in the past (OR=4.91, 95%CI: 0.33-0.52) and knew that smoking would lead to three diseases (OR=2.24, 95%CI: 1.48-3.40) had higher quit intention. People who occasionally smoke (OR=1.68, 95%CI: 1.20-2.34) received smoking cessation suggestions from medical staff (OR=1.96, 95%CI: 1.62-2.37), were a ware of that smoking causes three diseases (OR=1.63, 95%CI: 1.32-2.02) and had smoking prohibition regulations in indoor areas of their homes, had a higher rate of quit attempts. Conclusion: Providing effective smoking cessation intervention services and creating a supportive tobacco control environment are significant in promoting smoking cessation behavior.

[Development and challenges of tobacco epidemic surveillance in China]

Tobacco use is the leading preventable risk factor causing the global burden of disease and one of China's most significant public health issues. Continuous and dynamic tobacco monitoring can provide critical index data for developing tobacco control strategies and measures and evaluating the impact of tobacco control. The WHO has incorporated monitoring programs into the crucial content of tobacco control and put forward relevant compliance requirements in the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). The Chinese government has actively promoted tobacco control significantly since the entry into force of the FCTC in China and continuously strengthened tobacco monitoring. In 2021, China's tobacco monitoring was honored to have reached the highest level required by the WHO. This study introduces the sampling design of tobacco surveys, monitoring content, the definition of key indicators and data weighting based on a complex sampling design, analyzing the challenges facing in the current setting, and provides a reference for the understanding and utilization of the data, the comparison of the results, and the future development of tobacco monitoring. The surveys involved in this study will focus on the specialized epidemiological surveys of tobacco for adults and adolescents carried out nationwide.

[Analysis of exposure to tobacco advertisement and promotion among Chinese adults aged 15 years and above, 2010 and 2018]

Objective: To investigate the exposure to tobacco advertisements and promotions among Chinese adults aged 15 and above, identify the publicity channels and forms of tobacco advertising and promotion in 2010 and 2018, and implicate further tobacco control measures in China. Methods: A multistage, stratified, randomized cluster sampling design was used in 2010 and 2018 China Adult Tobacco Survey, with national representativeness. 13 354 and 19 376 permanent residents were selected in the 2010 and 2018 surveys. SAS 9.4 software was applied for data analysis, and all the data were weighted based on a complex sampling design. Rao Scott χ2 test was used for group comparison of a single factor. Results: In 2010 and 2018, 19.61% and 18.14% of the survey respondents did see tobacco advertising and promotion. From 2010 to 2018, there was no significant change in the situation of tobacco advertisements and promotions. Among those who had gone to a cigarette shop, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements increased from 29.28% in 2010 to 43.28% in 2018. Among those who had seen tobacco advertisements on TV, the rate fell from 50.93% in 2010 to 28.58% in 2018. Among those who had gone to movie theaters, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements increased from 2.17% in 2010 to 9.89% in 2018. Among those who had used the Internet, the proportion of seeing tobacco advertisements online rose from 19.20% in 2010 to 42.30% in 2018. In terms of tobacco promotion, the percentages of people who had seen tobacco promotions, cigarette price discounts, cigarette discount coupons, gifts, and other preferential activities in various places in the past 30 days were 4.99% vs. 9.30%, 0.78% vs. 4.09%, 0.04% vs. 0.33% and 0.98% vs. 3.33% in 2010 and 2018, respectively (P<0.001). Conclusions: Tobacco advertising and promotion are still prevalent in China, with no significant change in 2010 and 2018. Tobacco advertising and promotion have been with the constant changes and development of media platforms. It is necessary to improve the implementation of relevant policies, comprehensively ban tobacco advertisements and promotions, and strengthen the supervision of ads and promotions.

[Secondhand smoke exposure and its influencing factors among Chinese people aged 15 years and above in 2010 and 2018]

Objective: To investigate secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure among non-current smokers aged 15 and over and its influencing factors in China in 2010 and 2018. Methods: The 2010 and 2018 China Adult Tobacco Surveys used multistage stratified cluster random sampling methods to obtain national representative samples across 31 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) in China. This study selected non-current smokers aged 15 and over as the research subjects to describe the general demographic characteristics, perceptions of SHS hazards, attitudes towards smoking bans in indoor areas in public places, and SHS exposure and the smoking restriction regulations in different places. The Rao-Scott χ2 test was used to compare the rates, and the unconditional logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of SHS exposure. All the subjects in the analysis were weighted based on a complex sampling design. Results: Among non-current smokers aged 15 and over, from 2010 to 2018, the percentage of indoor smokers had decreased from 84.7% to 71.9%. The rates of people who saw smoking in various places declined with a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). The exposure to SHS for females, people aged 45-64, teachers, medical staff, workers in enterprises, businesses, waiters, and people who live in rural and central areas declined. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In 2018, the percentage of SHS exposure for those who reported a comprehensive smoking ban in households or allowed smoking in certain areas was lower than for those who reported allowed or without a smoking ban. Among those aged 25-44, SHS exposure for those who reported complete smoking prohibition in workplaces was lower than those who reported allowed or without smoking prohibition (OR=0.65, 95%CI: 0.49-0.87). The proportion of SHS exposure for those who believe that smoking should not be allowed in indoor areas of 0-5 public places is higher than that smoking should not be allowed in the indoor spaces of 8 public places (OR=2.13, 95%CI: 1.35-3.36). Among people aged 45-64, the proportions of SHS exposure for teachers (OR=0.37, 95%CI: 0.17-0.78) and medical staff (OR=0.35, 95%CI: 0.16-0.76) and staff working in agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, fishery, and water conservancy were lower than governmental staff (OR=0.49, 95%CI: 0.29-0.84). Conclusions: Data from the decreased exposure of Chinese non-current smokers aged 15 and over to SHS suggests the initial achievement through constructing a smoke-free environment, but continued efforts are needed. It is necessary to actively advocate for smoke-free families, strengthen publicity and education on the hazards of tobacco and SHS, and improve the skills of non-smokers in rejecting SHS exposure.

[Third ventricle width measured by transcranial ultrasound and its diagnostic value in patients with Alzheimer's disease]

Objective: To explore the diagnostic value of third ventricle width (TVW) measured by transcranial ultrasound (TCS) in the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by analyzing and comparing the image characteristics of TVW in AD patients and healthy controls, and its correlation with cranial magnetic resonance medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) visual score and neuropsychological characteristics. Methods: TCS examination, MTA score and neuropsychological tests were performed in 39 confirmed AD and 41 normal controls from the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between January and July 2021. The correlation of TVW with MTA score and neuropsychological characteristics was analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results: A total of thirty-nine AD patients were enrolled, with 28 males and 11 females, aged (73±9) years, including 18 mild, 20 moderate, and 1 severe AD patient. Meanwhile, 41 healthy controls were also included, with 24 males and 17 females, aged (69±6) years old. TVW in AD patients was significantly wider than that in normal controls [0.76(0.66, 0.87) cm vs 0.50(0.44, 0.56) cm, P<0.001]. In neuropsychological tests, compared with normal controls, AD patients showed impaired performances in several cognitive functions, and there were statistically significant differences in delayed memory [0(0, 0) vs 4.0(4.0, 5.0), P<0.001], naming [2.0(1.0, 3.0) vs 3.0(2.0, 3.0), P<0.001], executive function [2.0(2.0, 3.0) vs 3.0(2.5, 3.0), P<0.001], language [0.0(0.0, 2.0) vs 3.0(2.0, 3.0), P<0.001] and other aspects between AD patients and normal controls (all P<0.05). TVW was negatively correlated with immediate memory (r=-0.339, P=0.035), delayed recall (r=-0.523, P<0.001), attention and computing power (r=-0.409, P=0.045), visual space and executive function (r=-0.333, P=0.039), but positively correlated with the atrophy of the medial temporal lobe (r= 0.552, P<0.001). Conclusions: TCS can be used to measure TVW in AD patients. When combined with MTA score and neuropsychological tests, it can provide a reliable objective basis for the clinical diagnosis of AD.

Hoyosella lacisalsi sp. nov., a halotolerant actinobacterium isolated from the Lake Gudzhirganskoe

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore-forming and coccus-shaped strain, designated strain G463^T, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Salicornia europaea L. collected from Lake Gudzhirganskoe in Siberia. Based on 16S rRNA gene phylogeny, strain G463^T belonged to the genus Hoyosella, with the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to Hoyosella altamirensis DSM 45258^T (96.1%). The major fatty acids were C_17:1 ω8c, C_16:0, C_{15 : 0} and C_17:0. The strain contained meso-diaminopimelic acid as the cell-wall diagnostic diamino acid and arabinose, galactose and ribose as the whole-cell sugars. MK-8 and MK-7 were the predominant menaquinones. The polar lipid profile comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, one unidentified phosphoglycolipid, two unidentified glycolipids and several unidentified lipids. Acetyl was the muramyl residue. Mycolic acids (C₂₈-C₃₄) were present. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 68.3 mol%. Based on its phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, strain G463^T was considered to represent a novel species of the genus Hoyosella, for which the name Hoyosella lacisalsi sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is G463^T (=JCM 33650^T=CGMCC 1.17230^T).

[Evaluation on the quality of 236 National Demonstration Areas for comprehensive prevention and control of chronic diseases betweem 2017 and 2019]

Objective: To evaluate the quality of the National Demonstration Area for Comprehensive Prevention and Control of NCDs (referred to as "the Demonstration Area"). Methods: Based on the evaluation scores of the Demonstration Area field survey from 2017 to 2019, we counted the scores of each indicator, comparing the scores among indicators and regions. x±s was used to describe the scores. The 95%CI of the score was used to test the statistical difference among regions. Each score was converted into a hundred-mark system to compare the scores among indicators. Results: Of 236 Demonstration Areas, the total score was 83.5. The scores of the first-level indicator listed from high to low appeared as Integrating System of NCD Prevention and Control (92.8), Policy Perfection (90.3), Building Supportive Environment for NCD Prevention and Control (88.4), Implementation of Health Education and Health Promotion (87.4), Whole-course Management of NCDs (78.1), Innovation and Guidance (76.5), Surveillance and Evaluation (75.1). Total scores were higher in the east (259.2±18.8) comparing to the middle (243.2±15.2) or the west (245.4±19.7) regions. Conclusions: Substantial variations on the quality in the Demonstration Area existed across different regions in China. These disparities are important to the government when developing health policies and allocating resources. Whole-course Management of NCDs, Surveillance and Evaluation, and Innovation and Guidance in the Demonstration Area also needs to be improved.

[Analysis on disease burden of stroke in China and the regions with different sociodemographic index from 1990 to 2017]

Objective: To examine the trend of stroke disease burden and its main risk-attributable factors in China and regions with different Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) from 1990 to 2017. Methods: With 2017 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data, years lived with disability (YLDs), years of life lost (YLLs) and disability-adjusted of life years (DALYs) were applied to describe the disease burden and major risk factors of stroke in China and different SDI regions from 1990 to 2017, and to analyze the changing trend of the disease burden and major risk factors of stroke. Results: From 1990 to 2017, the YLD crude rate, YLL crude rate and DALY crude rate for stroke in China showed an increasing trend and the rate of change was 126.5%, 14.6%, and 24.4%, respectively. In 2017, the YLD crude rate, YLL crude rate and DALY crude rate for stroke in China were 502.6 per 100 000, 2 633.1 per 100 000 and 3 135.7 per 100 000, respectively. Among them, the YLD crude rate, YLL crude rate, and DALY crude rate of stroke were the highest in the ≥70 age group, which were 2 617.2 per 100 000, 16 789.4 per 100 000 and 19 406.6 per 100 000, respectively. The YLD crude rate in male was 475.5 per 100 000, which was slightly lower than that of female (530.9 per 100 000), while the DALY crude rate and YLL crude rate for stroke were 3 657.1 per 100 000 and 3 181.7 per 100 000, respectively, which were significantly higher than that of female (2 591.8 per 100 000 and 2 060.9 per 100 000). Compared with regions with different SDI, the age standardized YLD rate, the age standardized YLL rate, the age standardized DALY rate in China were all at a high level. Among them, the age-standardized YLD rate increased from 286.2 per 100 000 to 374.5 per 100 000, with a rate of change of 30.9%; the age-standardized YLL rate decreased from 3 215.6 per 100 000 to 1 967.8 per 100 000, with a rate of change of -38.8%; the age-standardized DALY rate increased from 3 501.8 per 100 000 to 2 342.3 per 100 000, with a rate of change of -33.1%. The top five risk factors for stroke in China were hypertension, excessive sodium intake, insufficient fruit intake, insufficient cereal intake, and smoking in 1990 and 2017. High Body-Mass Index and Alcohol Use's rankings rose from the 9th and 10th in 1990 to the 6th and 7th in 2017, respectively. Conclusion: The burden of stroke disease in China is at a high level, and hypertension is the primary risk factor.

[Association between physical activity and risk of stroke among adults aged 40 years and above: a prospective cohort study]

Objective: To examine the effect of physical activity (PA) on the incident risk of stroke among adults aged 40 years and above. Methods: The baseline data including PA and demographic characteristics were obtained from the Adult Chronic Disease Surveillance with population representativeness in Ningbo in 2015. The follow-up data of interested health outcomes from 2015 to 2019 were retrieved from a population-based Integrated Noncommunicable Disease Collaborative Management System in Ningbo. The two databases were matched to form a queue. PA was divided into three levels of low-intensity, moderate-intensity, and vigorous-intensity according to the metabolic equivalents (METs) spent per week. Cox regression model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval. Results: A total of 3 353 subjects were included at baseline survey in 2015. Until Dec 31, 2019, there had been 31 stroke events had occurred since then, with accumulative incidence rate of 242/100 000, and an average follow-up time of (50.28±2.54) months. When adjusted for gender, age, education level, smoking status, alcohol consumption, BMI and hypertension, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that greater PA was associated with a 37.9% reduction of incidence of stroke (HR=0.621,95%CI:0.393-0.983). Compared with those who had low-intensity PA, those who were with vigorous-intensity. PA appeared associated with a 63.1% decrease in the incidence of stroke (HR=0.369, 95%CI: 0.139-0.976). However, there was no statistical significance with moderate-intensity PA (HR=0.712,95%CI:0.323-1.569), noticed. Conclusions: Greater PA is likely to reduce the incidence of stroke. Our findings indicated that people should be encouraged to increase the PA level and developing a healthy supportive environment in the community.

Chrysin Improves Glucose and Lipid Metabolism Disorders by Regulating the AMPK/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in Insulin-Resistant HepG2 Cells and HFD/STZ-Induced C57BL/6J Mice

Natural products with minor side effects have been reported to be an effective adjuvant therapy for glucose and lipid metabolism disorders. Chrysin, a flavone, has a wide range of physiological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetes, anti-hyperlipidemia, and hepatoprotective. This study was designed to explore the effects and mechanism of chrysin on metabolic syndrome using insulin-resistant HepG2 cells and HFD/STZ-induced C57BL/6J mice. The results indicated that chrysin significantly decreased insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver injury. In addition, chrysin improved glycogen synthesis and fatty acid oxidation and inhibited gluconeogenesis and fatty acid synthesis by regulating GSK3β, G6Paes, PEPCK, SREBP1, FAS, and ACC1. Furthermore, the results of western blot and real-time PCR experiments demonstrated that chrysin modulated glucose and lipid metabolism through the AMPK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Treatment with the AMPK inhibitor verified that AMPK activation is positively correlated with chrysin activity on glycolipid metabolism. This study confirms that chrysin is a potential treatment for glucose and lipid metabolism disorders.

Phycicoccus flavus sp. nov., a novel endophytic actinobacterium isolated from branch of Kandelia candel

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, non-endospore-forming and rod-shaped actinobacterium, designated strain CMS6Z-2^T, was isolated from a surface-sterilized branch of Kandelia candel collected from the Maowei Sea, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, PR China. Strain CMS6Z-2^T grew at 10-37 °C (optimum, 37 °C), pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0-8.0) and in the presence of 0-10.0 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0-1.0 %). Strain CMS6Z-2^T possessed meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diamino acid of the peptidoglycan and MK-8 (H₄) as the predominant menaquinone. The major fatty acids were iso-C_15 : 0, C_16 : 0 and C_18 : 1  ω9c. The polar lipids comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol and two unknown phospholipids. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 74.1 mol%. Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA genes showed that strain CMS6Z-2^T should be assigned to the genus Phycicoccus and its closest relative was Phycicoccus endophyticus IP6SC6^T with 98.3 % similarity. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequence and phylogenomic analysis based on core proteomes alignment revealed that strain CMS6Z-2^T belonged to the genus Phycicoccus and formed a robust cluster with Phycicoccus endophyticus IP6SC6^T within the genus Phycicoccus. The average nucleotide identity value and estimated digital DNA-DNA hybridization value between strain CMS6Z-2^T and the type strain of Phycicoccus endophyticus were 81.5 and 23.9 %, respectively. On the basis of phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain CMS6Z-2^T represents a novel species of the genus Phycicoccus, for which the name Phycicoccus flavus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CMS6Z-2^T (=KCTC 49240^T=CGMCC4.7549^T).

[Associations between the efficiency of the brain white matter network and clinical symptoms in patients with type Ⅲ B prostatitis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the changes in the topological properties of the global and local nodal efficiencies of the brain white matter network in patients with type III B prostatitis, and to analyze the correlation between the information transmission efficiency of different brain regions and pelvic pain.

METHODS

We enrolled 19 patients with type Ⅲ B prostatitis and 32 normal controls matched in general demographic data for this study. We assessed the pelvic pain of the patients based on the NIH-CPSI, obtained the structural and diffusion-weighted MR images of the brain, preprocessed the MRI data, constructed the brain structural networks and calculated the topological properties of the nodal local and global efficiencies using the FSL software package and brain connection toolbox. Finally, we compared the topological properties between the two groups by t-test with the SPSS 20 software, performed multiple correction of the values using the false discovery rate (FDR) method, and investigated the associations of the altered brain regions with the NIH-CPSI scores by Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The global efficiency of the orbital part of the right median frontal gyrus in the patients with type Ⅲ B prostatitis, compared with that in the normal controls, was dramatically decreased (0.095 ± 0.046 vs 0.13 ± 0.015, P < 0.01) while that of the left median cingulate gyrus markedly increased (0.16 ± 0.027 vs 0.14 ± 0.019, P < 0.01), which were corrected by FDR. The local efficiency of the left median cingulate gyrus was also remarkably decreased in the patients as compared with that in the controls (0.25 ± 0.075 vs 0.19 ± 0.036, P < 0.01), and so was that of the left paracentral lobule (0.25 ± 0.088 vs 0.17 ± 0.065, P < 0.01), which were corrected by FDR. In the patients, the local efficiencies of the left precuneus (r = 0.46, P = 0.045), right supplementary motor area (r = 0.47, P = 0.043) and left median cingulate gyrus (r = 0.60, P = 0.0065) were positively correlated with the total score of NIH-CPSI, the scores of pain and discomfort symptoms, and the scores of the influence of the symptoms on the quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

The changes of the brain regions in the executive control network of the patient with type Ⅲ B prostatitis might be involved in enhancing his sensitivity to pain and discomfort, and consequently lead to pelvic pain and discomfort.

Butyribacter intestini gen. nov., sp. nov., a butyric acid-producing bacterium of the family Lachnospiraceae isolated from human faeces, and reclassification of Acetivibrio ethanolgignens as Acetanaerobacter ethanolgignens gen. nov., comb. nov

A novel, non-motile, Gram-stain-positive, non-spore-forming, obligate anaerobic bacterium, designated strain TF01-11^T, was isolated from human faeces. The isolate was characterized by phylogenetic and phenotypic properties, as well as by determination of its whole genome sequence. The growth temperature and pH ranges were 30-42 °C and 6.0-8.5, respectively. The end products of glucose fermentation were butyric acid and a small amount of acetic acid. The genome was estimated to be 3.61 Mbp with G + C content of 36.8 mol%. Genes related to biosynthesis of diaminopimelic acid, polar lipids, polyamines, teichoic and lipoteichoic acids were present. The predominant fatty acids were C_16:0 (37.9%), C_14:0 (16.4%), C_13:0 OH/iso-C_15:1H (11.1%) and C_18:1ω9c (10.6%). Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences demonstrated that the isolate was a member of family Lachnospiraceae, with the highest sequence similarity to the type strain of Roseburia intestinalis DSM 14610^T (92.2%), followed by Acetivibrio ethanolgignens ATCC 33324^T (92.0%). The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and average amino acid identity (AAI) values between strain TF01-11^T and these closest relatives were less than 70.5% and 52.3%. Based on results of phenotypic characteristics and genotypic properties presented in this study, strain TF01-11^T represents a novel species in a new genus, for which the name Butyribacter intestini gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is TF01-11^T (CGMCC 1.5203^T = DSM 105140^T). In addition, Acetivibrio ethanolgignens is proposed to be reclassified as Acetanaerobacter ethanolgignens gen. nov., comb. nov.

Taxonomic Description and Genome Sequence of Christensenella intestinihominis sp. nov., a Novel Cholesterol-Lowering Bacterium Isolated From Human Gut

A Gram-staining-negative, non-spore-forming, short, straight rod, non-motile, and obligate anaerobic bacterial strain, AF73-05CM02^T, was isolated from a fecal sample of a 30 years old healthy male living in Shenzhen, China. Colonies were approximately 0.2 mm in diameter, beige, and circular after 4 days of incubation on PYG agar under anaerobic conditions at 37°C. Strain AF73-05CM02^T grew in a temperature range between 30 and 42°C and a pH range from 6.0 to 8.5, with optimum growth at 37–42°C and pH 7.0. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis demonstrated that strain AF73-05CM02^T belongs to the genus Christensenella and showed the highest level of sequence similarity (98.68%) with Christensenella minuta DSM 22607^T. The predominant fatty acids of strain AF73-05CM02^T were C_10:0 (7.5%), iso-C_11:0 (5.6%), C_12:0 (7.2%), C_14:0 (46.6%), iso-C_15:0 (7.4%), C_16:0 (9.7%), and C_18:1 ω9c (6.9%). Acetic acid, formic acid, butyric acid, and lactic acid were the end products of glucose fermentation. The strain was negative for catalase, indole production, and hydrolysis of gelatin. Genomic relatedness analyses based on average nucleotide identity (ANI) indicated that strain AF73-05CM02^T significantly differed from other species of the genus Christensenella, showing ANI values less than 82.89% with the phylogenetically closest species. The G + C content of the genomic DNA was 52.07 mol% from the genome sequence, which differs from that of Christensenella minuta. Several physiological, biochemical, and genotypic properties differentiated the novel bacterial strain from the related species, indicating that the strain represents a new species of the genus Christensenella for which the name Christensenella intestinihominis sp. nov. is proposed, with strain AF73-05CM02^T ( = CGMCC 1.5207^T = DSM 103477^T ) being the type strain. The following study explored the cholesterol-lowering function of strains AF73-05CM02^T and Christensenella minuta DSM 22067^T and revealed that the two strains exhibit the capacity for removing cholesterol with efficiency rates of 36.6 and 54.3% and produce exopolysaccharide of 234 and 271 mg/L, respectively.

[Application of healthy big data in prevention and control of chronic diseases]

With the continuous development of informatization, big data has been increasingly used in the prevention and control of chronic diseases, which has a significant and considerable influence on public health. This paper briefly introduces the definition, characteristics and classification of big data and healthy big data, focusing on the analysis methods and their applications in tertiary prevention, as well as the challenges in technology, data management, sharing and quality, ethics and privacy, with the aim of providing more research approaches for healthy big data application in chronic disease prevention and control.

Magnetic resonance imaging findings of carcinoma arising from anal fistula: A retrospective study in a single institution

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is currently the standard investigation for suspected perianal diseases. Carcinoma arising from anal fistula is very rare, and early diagnosis is often difficult.

AIM

To describe and summarize the MRI findings of carcinoma arising from anal fistula.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, records of ten patients diagnosed with carcinoma arising from anal fistula and confirmed by surgery (n = 7) or biopsy (n = 3) between June 2006 and August 2018 were analyzed. All patients underwent preoperative pelvic MRI. Morphologic features, signal characteristics, fistula between the mass and the anus, contrast enhancement of mass, signal and enhancement of peritumoral areas, and regional lymphadenopathy were assessed.

RESULTS

All ten tumors were solitary (8 mucinous adenocarcinomas and 2 adenocarcinomas). The maximum diameter of the tumors ranged from 3.4 cm to 12.4 cm (median: 4.15 cm; mean: 5.68 cm). Eight patients had a fistula between the mass and the anus. Contrast enhancement of the peritumoral areas was noted in three (3/5) patients. Perirectal or inguinal lymphadenopathy was noted in seven patients. Most lesions of mucinous adenocarcinoma were multiloculated and cauliflower-like, with a thin capsule and focally unclear boundary. They were markedly hyperintense on fat-suppressed T2WI, slightly hyperintense with focal hyperintensity on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and hyperintense with focal hypointensity on apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, with progressive mesh-like contrast enhancement. Adenocarcinomas had an infiltrative margin without a capsule and appeared heterogeneously hyperintense or slightly hyperintense on fat-suppressed T2WI, hyperintense on DWI, and hypointense on ADC map, with persistent heterogeneous enhancement.

CONCLUSION

Our study highlighted several characteristic and potentially helpful MRI findings to diagnose carcinomas arising from anal fistula.

[Current status and projection of non-communicable diseases in 126 countries participating in the Belt and Road initiative]

Objective: To compare the indicators of non-communicable diseases (NCD) and predict the achieving time of United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in 125 countries participating in the Belt and Road (B&R) initiative and China. Methods: Using the open access data of Global Burden of Disease study, we first got the premature mortality rates of four main chronic diseases (cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases) and suicide mortality rate in the 126 countries from1990 to 2017. We transformed the value of each indicator into a scale of 0-100 in percentile for each country and applied geometric mean to calculate total NCD score for comparison among 126 countries. We then examined the association of NCD scores with socio-demographic index (SDI) values. Finally, we used annualized rates of change during 1990-2015 to predict achieving time of the UN goal by 2030 for each indicator of chronic diseases premature mortality rate and suicide mortality rates in each B&R country. Results: The integral median of total NCD score in the 126 countries in 2017 was 82.7. The score of China was 87.6, ranking 33(rd). The top three countries were Kuwait (98.1), Peru (97.5) and Italy (96.0). The last three countries were Papua New Guinea (28.9), Vanuatu (54.7) and Ukraine (58.0). The total NCD score showed positive correlation with SDI values (r=0.33) mainly due to chronic disease indicator (r=0.45). Fifteen countries will achieve the SDG goal of chronic disease premature mortality in or before 2030, but China will achieve it in 2038. Fifteen countries are expected to achieve the goal of suicide mortality, and China will acheive the goal ahead of schedule in 2024. Conclusions: The NCD rates varied widely among the countries along B&R. It is a challenge to achieve the SDG goal of chronic disease premature mortality rate by 2030 for China. In order to achieve the SDG goals by 2030, we should strengthen multilateral cooperation and complement each other's advantages, and reduce NCD mortality of people and improve people's health in countries along B&R.

Silencing LncRNA LINC01305 inhibits epithelial mesenchymal transition in lung cancer cells by regulating TNXB-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

The aim of this study was to investigate whether LINC01305 can regulate TNXB-mediated phosphatidilinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway and therefore affect epithelial mesenchymal transition in lung cancer cells. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to detect LINC01305 level in 52 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues and paracancerous normal lung tissues, and the relationship between LINC01305 expression and clinical pathological parameters of these subjects was analyzed. After LINC01305 was knocked down in PC9 cell and overexpressed in A549 cells, qRT-PCR was used to verify the transfection efficiency, and nuclear fractionation technique, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), plate cloning assay and Transwell test were used to detect the effect of LINC01305 on cell viability. LINC01305 had an obviously higher expression in NSCLC tissues, and the expression in lung cancer patients with tumor size >3 cm was higher than those with tumor ≤3 cm. LINC01305 expression in tumor tissues in T3-T4 stage was obviously higher than those in T1-T2 stage, and the overall survival rate of lung cancer patients with high expression of LINC01305 was lower than those with low expression. Moreover, clinical analysis revealed that LINC01305 level was related to tumor size, TNM stage and lymph node metastasis of patients with lung cancer, but not related to age or gender. Silencing LINC01305 can inhibit the epithelial mesenchymal transition-induced transformation of lung cancer cells through regulating TNXB-mediated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, which in turn affects the progression of lung cancer.

[Trends of burden on ischemic heart disease and epidemiological transition of related risk factors in China, 1990-2017]

Objective: To examine the trend of burden on ischemic heart disease (IHD) and epidemiological transition on related risk factors among the Chinese population from 1990 to 2017. Methods: Based on open access data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 Study, we used years of life lost (YLD), years lived with disability (YLL), and disability-adjusted of life years (DALY) to describe the changes of IHD burden stratified by different sex and age groups from 1990 to 2017. We applied population-attributable faction (PAF) to analyze the burden attributable to risk factors and epidemiological transition. Results: In 2017, rates on YLD, YLL, and DALY for IHD were 74.2/100 000, 2 459.6/100 000, and 2 523.1/100 000, respectively. DALY rate and YLL rate for IHD in males were invariably higher than those in females except for YLD rate in females. 24 modifiable risk factors were causally associated with IHD. The top five risk factors that influencing DALYs, PAF, and DALY rate in 2017 appeared as: high blood pressure (16.429 million person years, 54.6%, 1 163.1/100 000), high LDL cholesterol (13 941 million person years, 46.3%, 987.0/100 000), diet high in sodium (10.900 million person years, 36.2%, 771.1/100 000), smoking (8.647 million person years, 28.7%, 612.2/100 000), and low-nut diet (7.452 million person years, 24.8%, 527.6/100 000). DALY rate for IHD showed an increase of 90.9%, from 1 116.4/100 000 in 1990 to 2 131.0/100 000 in 2017. Compared with 1990, the YLD rate experienced an evident increase in those aged 15-49 and over 70, in 2017. Annual average growth rate of YLD rate was higher in the ≥70 age group, between 2007 and 2017 (0.4%) than that between 1990 and 2007 (0.2%). The annual average increasing rates of both YLL and DALY were much lower from 2007 to 2017 (0.6%, 0.6%) than those from 1990 to 2007 (1.3%, 1.2%). From 1990 to 2017, DALYs attributed to meaty food (929.7%), beverages with high sugar content (822.7%), and high body-mass index (327.3%) experienced the highest increase. The largest increase in PAF occurred for beverages with high sugar content (400.0%). DALY rates increased for the 8 risk factors whereas decreased on the 7 risk factors, in consecutive rankings between 2007 and 2017. Conclusions: Despite the fact that burden on IHD-caused premature death had been reducing, related disabilities remain challenging with IHD the leading cause of burden, particularly in the ≥70 year-olds. Higher IHD burden from premature death was seen in males but disability appeared higher in females. It is significantly important to strengthen programs on prevention and control for hypertension including reducing modifiable risk factors such as smoking, unreasonable diet habits.

Motilibacter deserti sp. nov. and Motilibacter aurantiacus sp. nov., two novel actinobacteria isolated from soil of Cholistan Desert and emended description of the genus Motilibacter

Two novel actinobacterial strains, designated as E257^T and K478^T, were isolated from hyper-arid soil samples collected in Cholistan Desert, Pakistan. Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA genes showed that strains E257^T and K478^T were assigned to the genus Motilibacter, being their closest relative M. rhizosphaerae RS-16^T with 97.3% and 96.7% similarities, respectively. The sequence similarity between strain E257^T and K478^T was 98.9%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and phylogenomic analysis based on multiple genes of conserved core proteins exhibited that these two strains belonged to the genus Motilibacter and formed a robust cluster separated from the two type species of the genus Motilibacter. Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI), Average Amino acid Identity (AAI), digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values and Percentage of Conserved Proteins (POCP) calculated from the complete genome sequences indicated strains E257^T and K478^T were assigned into genus Motilibacter but clearly separated from each other and from the other species of the genus Motilibacter with values below the thresholds for species delineation. The two isolates were found to have chemotaxonomic, cultural and morphological properties consistent with their classification in the genus Motilibacter and also confirmed the differentiation from their closest species. The obtained results demonstrated that strains E257^T and K478^T represent two novel species of the genus Motilibacter, for which the names Motilibacter desertisp. nov. (type strain E257^T = JCM 33651^T = CGMCC 1.17159^T) and Motilibacter aurantiacus sp. nov. (type strain K478^T =JCM 33652^T =CGMCC 1.17229^T) are proposed.

The genome of Chinese flowering cherry (Cerasus serrulata) provides new insights into Cerasus species

Cerasus serrulata is a flowering cherry germplasm resource for ornamental purposes. In this work, we present a de novo chromosome-scale genome assembly of C. serrulata by the use of Nanopore and Hi-C sequencing technologies. The assembled C. serrulata genome is 265.40 Mb across 304 contigs and 67 scaffolds, with a contig N50 of 1.56 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 31.12 Mb. It contains 29,094 coding genes, 27,611 (94.90%) of which are annotated in at least one functional database. Synteny analysis indicated that C. serrulata and C. avium have 333 syntenic blocks composed of 14,072 genes. Blocks on chromosome 01 of C. serrulata are distributed on all chromosomes of C. avium, implying that chromosome 01 is the most ancient or active of the chromosomes. The comparative genomic analysis confirmed that C. serrulata has 740 expanded gene families, 1031 contracted gene families, and 228 rapidly evolving gene families. By the use of 656 single-copy orthologs, a phylogenetic tree composed of 10 species was constructed. The present C. serrulata species diverged from Prunus yedoensis ~17.34 million years ago (Mya), while the divergence of C. serrulata and C. avium was estimated to have occurred ∼21.44 Mya. In addition, a total of 148 MADS-box family gene members were identified in C. serrulata, accompanying the loss of the AGL32 subfamily and the expansion of the SVP subfamily. The MYB and WRKY gene families comprising 372 and 66 genes could be divided into seven and eight subfamilies in C. serrulata, respectively, based on clustering analysis. Nine hundred forty-one plant disease-resistance genes (R-genes) were detected by searching C. serrulata within the PRGdb. This research provides high-quality genomic information about C. serrulata as well as insights into the evolutionary history of Cerasus species.

[Current status of the clinical practice and analysis on the ratioanl prescription of antiarrhythmic drugs in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation: Results from the Chinese Atrial Fibrillation Registry (CAFR) trial]

Objective: To explore the practice patterns and the related factors of oral antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) treatment in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), and to evaluate the compliance of AAD application to atrial fibrillation management guidelines. Methods: From August 2011 to August 2016, medical records from 18 014 patients with AF were analyzed based on data from the Chinese Atrial Fibrillation Registry trial. Patients were divided into AAD group (7 788 cases, 43.23%) and non-AAD group (10 226 cases, 56.77%) according to whether AAD was used at baseline or at the time of first use during follow-up. Amiodarone (4 129 cases, 53.02%) and propafenone (3 211 cases, 41.23%) were the mostly prescribed AAD and subgroup analysis was performed accordingly. Medical records were analyzed by random forest regression to evaluate the use of AAD and related factors in patients with AF, and the rationality of AAD was analyzed according to the guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation. Result: A total of 18 014 patients were included in this study, of which 60.48% (10 895/18 014) were male patients, 22.65% (4 081/18 014) were elderly patients(≥75 years old), there were 7 788 patients (43.23%) in AAD group, and 10 226 patients(56.77%) in non-AAD group. Compared with the non-AAD group, the elderly patients (≥75 years old, 13.74%(1 070/7 788) vs. 29.44%(3 011/10 226)), persistent AF (28.95% (2 250/7 788) 45.80% (4 683/10 226)), heart failure(8.29% (646/7 788) vs. 21.95% (2 245/10 226)), stroke and (or) TIA(12.15% (946/7 788) vs. 19.95% (2 040/10 226)), renal dysfunction(16.36%(1 274/7 788) vs. 29.37% (3 003/10 226)), and high thromboembolism risk(60.17% (4 748/7 788) vs. 76.40% (7 813/10 226)) were less prevalent in the AAD subgroup (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that patients in tertiary hospitals (OR=3.72, 95%CI 3.17-4.37) were more likely to use AAD, elderly patients (≥75 years old, OR=0.47, 95%CI 0.39-0.55), persistent atrial fibrillation (OR=0.66, 95%CI 0.60-0.72), and patients with heart failure (OR=0.54, 95%CI 0.47-0.63), stroke and (or) TIA (OR=0.77, 95%CI 0.68-0.87), renal dysfunction (OR=0.75, 95%CI 0.59-0.95) and high thromboembolism risk(OR=0.7, 95%CI 0.58-0.84) were more likely not to use AAD(P<0.05). In the AAD group, amiodarone and propafenone were the most commonly used AAD, accounting for 53.02% (4 129/7 788) and 41.23% (3 211/7 788), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (OR=4.57, 95%CI 3.94-5.29) and coronary heart disease (OR=4.14, 95%CI 3.03-5.64), heart failure (OR=2.07, 95%CI 1.48-2.89), non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (OR=4.84, 95%CI 2.41-9.73) were more likely to use amiodarone, and those with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (OR=0.31, 95%CI 0.15-0.65) and low thromboembolism risk (OR=0.78, 95%CI 0.63-0.97) were more likely to use propafenone (P<0.001). The overall incidence of AAD treatment, which was not indicated by the guidelines was 6.5% (480/7 340); 5.1% (212/4 129) in the amiodarone group and 8.3% (268/3 211) in the propafenone group, respectively. Compared with the rational AAD use group, the proportion of irrational drug use was higher in the elderly (≥75 years old) (20.4% (98/480) vs. 12.9% (887/6 860)), patients of high thromboembolism risk (77.1% (379/480) vs. 59.0% (4 047/6 860)), and in non-tertiary hospitals (7.1% (34/480) vs. 3.3% (299/6 860)), but lower in men(50.8% (244/480) vs. 64.5% (4 427/6 860)), P<0.001. Conclusions: The patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, who were treated with AAD, were mostly patients with fewer complications, and the patients who were treated with amiodarone were mostly patients with persistent atrial fibrillation, patients were more likely to complicate with organic heart disease. The incidence of AAD that do not comply with the guidelines was low, and it was more common in non-tertiary hospitals and the elder patients with high thromboembolism risk.

Arthrobacter mobilis sp. nov., a novel actinobacterium isolated from Cholistan desert soil

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, catalase-positive, oxidase-negative, non-mycelium-forming, motile, rod-shaped with one polar flagellum actinobacterium, designated E918^T, was isolated from a desert soil collected in Cholistan desert, Pakistan. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain E918^T belonged to the genus Arthrobacter and was most closely related to Arthrobacter deserti CGMCC 1.15091^T (97.2 % similarity). The peptidoglycan was of the A3α type and the whole-cell sugar profile was found to contain galactose. The major menaquinone was MK-9(H₂). The polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and two unidentified glycolipids. The major fatty acids identified were anteiso-C_15 : 0 and anteiso-C_17 : 0. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 68.69 mol%. The digital DNA-DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values between strain E918^T and A. deserti CGMCC 1.15091^T were 28.0 and 83.4%, respectively. On the basis of its phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, strain E918^T was considered to represent a novel species of the genus Arthrobacter, for which the name Arthrobacter mobilis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Arthrobacter mobilis is E918^T (=JCM 33392^T=CGMCC 1.16978^T).

Planctomonas psychrotolerans sp. nov., isolated from rhizosphere soil of Suaeda salsa

A psychrotolerant actinobacterium, designated strain J5903^T, was isolated from an alkaline soil sample from the rhizosphere of Suaeda salsa collected in desertification land surrounding Jiuliancheng Nur in Hebei Province, PR China. Cells of the isolate were Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile and non-spore-forming cocci. Strain J5903^T grew optimally at 20‒25 °C, at pH 7.0‒7.5 and with <1 % (w/v) NaCl. The cell-wall peptidoglycan type was B2γ with d-2,4-diaminobutyric acid and l-2,4-diaminobutyric acid as diagnostic amino acids. The muramyl residue was acetyl type. The menaquinones were MK-11, MK-12, MK-10 and MK-13. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and one unidentified glycolipid. The major whole-cell fatty acids were anteiso-C_15 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0 and anteiso-C_17 : 0. The genomic DNA G+C content was 69.1 mol%. It shared the highest average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values with Planctomonas deserti 13S1-3^T. Phylogenies based on genome sequence showed that strain J5903^T and P. deserti 13S1-3^T formed a robust cluster with high bootstrap support. Strain J5903^T shared typical chemotaxonomic characteristics with P. deserti 13S1-3^T. Combining the polyphasic taxonomic evidence, strain J5903^T represents a novel species of the genus Planctomonas, for which the name Planctomonas psychrotolerans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is J5903^T (=DSM 101894^T=CGMCC 1.15523^T).

Auraticoccus cholistanensis sp. nov., an actinomycete isolated from soil of the Cholistan Desert, and emended description of the genus Auraticoccus

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile and non-spore-forming actinobacterium, designated as F435^T, was isolated from soil sample collected from the Cholistan Desert, Pakistan. The taxonomic position of the strain was established by using a polyphasic taxonomic approach. The cells were coccoid-shaped and found in single or arrangement of pairs. The novel strain grew at 15‒37 °C (optimum, 25‒30 °C), pH 7‒11 (optimum, pH 7-8) and in the presence of 0‒8% (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 %). Results of blast analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that Auraticoccus monumenti MON 2.2^T was its closest relative with 97.4 % similarity followed by Desertihabitans aurantiacus CPCC 204711^T (95.2 %). In phylogenetic trees, strain F435^T formed a robust cluster with the only member of the genus Auraticoccus. The peptidoglycan isomer present in the cell wall was ll-diaminopimelic acid. The major fatty acid was determined to be anteiso-C_15 : 0. Characteristic polar lipids of the strain were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphoglycolipids and glycolipids. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H₄). The genomic G+C content was calculated as 73.5 mol%. The digital DNA-DNA hybridization (GGDC) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between strain F435^T and A. monumenti MON 2.2^T were 24.6 and 81.8 %, respectively. Based on the results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses, strain F435^T represents a novel specie of the genus Auraticoccus, for which the name Auraticoccus cholistanensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is F435^T (=JCM 33648^T=CGMCC 1.17443^T). The description of the genus Auraticoccus has also been emended.

Phytoactinopolyspora mesophila sp. nov., isolated from a saline-alkaline soil

A novel moderately halophilic, filamentous actinobacterium, designated as XMNu-373^T, was isolated from a saline-alkaline soil sample collected from the Mongolia Plateau, Dongwu County, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, PR China. The isolate grew optimally at 28‒37 °C, pH 7.0‒8.0 and with 2-5 % (w/v) NaCl. The substrate mycelia fragmented into rod-like elements, and the white aerial mycelia formed spore chains at maturity. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H₄). The polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified phosphoglycolipids, an unidentified aminophospholipid, two phosphatidylinositol mannosides, four unidentified phospholipids, phosphatidylglycerol and two unidentified lipids. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C_16 : 0, anteiso-C_17 : 0 and anteiso-C_15 : 0. The genomic DNA G+C content was 66.2 mol%. It shared high 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities to Phytoactinopolyspora halotolerans YIM 96448^T (96.1 %) and Phytoactinopolyspora endophytica EGI 60009^T (96.0 %). Phylogenetic trees based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain XMNu-373^T resided in the clade of family Jiangellaceae, and it formed a monophyletic branch distinct from four other recognized type species in the subclade of the genus Phytoactinopolyspora. On the basis of polyphasic taxonomic evidence, strain XMNu-373^T represents a novel species of the genus Phytoactinopolyspora, for which the name Phytoactinopolyspora mesophila sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is XMNu-373^T (=JCM 33740^T=CGMCC 4.7654^T).

Nocardioides vastitatis sp. nov., isolated from Taklamakan desert soil

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped actinobacterium, designated strain 21Sc5-5^T, was isolated from a soil sample collected in the Taklamakan desert in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, PR China and investigated by using a polyphasic approach. Strain 21Sc5-5^T grew at 10-37 °C (optimum, 28-30 °C), pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 0-3 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences suggested that strain 21Sc5-5^T formed a distinct lineage within the genus Nocardioides and had the highest similarity to Nocardioides albidus THG-S11.7^T (97.30 %), followed by Nocardioides kongjuensis A2-4^T (97.22 %), Nocardioides nitrophenolicus NSP 41^T (97.15 %) and Nocardioides caeni MN8^T (97.15 %). The results of chemotaxonomic analyses showed that the isolate possessed ll-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid of the peptidoglycan and MK-8(H₄) as the predominant menaquinone. The polar lipids comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, an unidentified phospholipid and three unidentified lipids. The major fatty acids were iso-C_16 : 0 and 10-methyl C_18 : 0. The genome length of strain 21Sc5-5^T was 4.67 Mb containing 372 contigs and with a DNA G+C content of 70.4 mol%. On the basis of data from phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic analyses, strain 21Sc5-5^T represents a novel species of the genus Nocardioides, for which the name Nocardioides vastitatis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 21Sc5-5^T (=JCM 33365^T=CGMCC 4.7608^T).

[Morphological changes of the central sulcus in children with complete growth hormone deficiency: a 3.0 T MRI study]

Objective: To analyze morphological changes in central sulcus of the cerebral cortex in children with complete growth hormone deficiency (CGHD). Methods: Patients attending the Shandong Provincial Hospital who were diagnosed with CGHD or idiopathic short stature were recruited from January 2015 to January 2019. Thirty children with CGHD (18 males and 12 females, 5 to 14 years old) and 30 children with idiopathic short stature (22 males and 8 females, 5 to 14 years old) were included. Measurements of the central sulcus, including the average width, maximum depth, average depth, top length, bottom length and depth position-based profiles (DPP), were obtained using Brain VISA software. The significant differences between groups were statistically analyzed. Results: The average width of bilateral central sulci in children with CGHD (left: (2.26±0.41) mm; right: (2.19±0.34) mm) were significantly higher than those in children with idiopathic short stature (left: (2.10±0.27) mm; right: (2.02±0.18) mm) (P<0.05) ; The maximum depth of the left central sulcus ((19.67±1.29) mm) and the average depth of the right central sulcus ((14.18±1.41) mm) were significantly lower than those in children with idiopathic short stature (left maximum depth: (20.69±1.43) mm; right average depth: (14.92±1.21) mm) (P<0.05) . Children with CGHD had significantly lower DPP at the middle part of the left central sulcus (sites: 46-54) and the inferior part of the right central sulcus(sites: 91-98). Conclusion: There are significant morphological changes of the central sulcus in children with CGHD, which may represent the structural basis of their relatively slower development in motor, cognitive and linguistic functional performance.

Glycomyces buryatensis sp. nov., an actinobacterium isolated from steppe soil

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated 18^T, was isolated from a steppe soil sample collected in Buryatia, Russia and subjected to polyphasic taxonomic characterization. The strain was aerobic and Gram-stain-positive. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain 18^T exhibited highest similarity to Glycomyces paridis CPCC 204357^T (97.2 %). Results of phylogenetic analysis showed that strain 18^T formed a distinct branch clearly affiliated to the genus Glycomyces. Whole-cell hydrolysates of the isolate contained meso-diaminopimelic acid as the cell-wall diamino acid. The whole-cell sugar profile was found to contain galactose, glucose, ribose and xylose. MK-10(H₄) and MK-11(H₄) were the predominant menaquinones. The polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, five unidentified phospholipids and four unidentified polar lipids. The major fatty acids identified were anteiso-C_15 : 0 and iso-C_15 : 0. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of strain 18^T was 68.0 mol% (draft genome sequence). Based on its phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, strain 18^T was considered to represent a novel species of the genus Glycomyces, for which the name Glycomyces buryatensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Glycomyces buryatensis is 18^T (=JCM 33362^T=CGMCC 4.7610^T).

[An interlaboratory comparison study on the detection of RUNX1-RUNX1T1 fusion transcript levels and WT1 transcript levels]

Objective: To investigate the current status and real performance of the detection of RUNX1-RUNX1T1 fusion transcript levels and WT1 transcript levels in China through interlaboratory comparison. Methods: Peking University People's Hospital (PKUPH) prepared the samples for comparison. That is, the fresh RUNX1-RUNX1T1 positive (+) bone morrow nucleated cells were serially diluted with RUNX1-RUNX1T1 negative (-) nucleated cells from different patients. Totally 23 sets with 14 different samples per set were prepared. TRIzol reagent was added in each tube and thoroughly mixed with cells for homogenization. Each laboratory simultaneously tested RUNX1-RUNX1T1 and WT1 transcript levels of one set of samples by real-time quantitative PCR method. All transcript levels were reported as the percentage of RUNX1-RUNX1T1 or WT1 transcript copies/ABL copies. Spearman correlation coefficient between the reported transcript levels of each participated laboratory and those of PKUPH was calculated. Results: ①RUNX1-RUNX1T1 comparison: 9 samples were (+) and 5 were (-) , the false negative and positive rates of the 20 participated laboratories were 0 (0/180) and 5% (5/100) , respectively. The reported transcript levels of all 9 positive samples were different among laboratories. The median reported transcript levels of 9 positive samples were from 0.060% to 176.7%, which covered 3.5-log. The ratios of each sample's highest to the lowest reported transcript levels were from 5.5 to 12.3 (one result which obviously deviated from other laboratories' results was not included) , 85% (17/20) of the laboratories had correlation coefficient ≥0.98. ②WT1 comparison: The median reported transcript levels of all 14 samples were from 0.17% to 67.6%, which covered 2.6-log. The ratios of each sample's highest to the lowest reported transcript levels were from 5.3-13.7, 62% (13/21) of the laboratories had correlation coefficient ≥0.98. ③ The relative relationship of the reported RUNX1-RUNX1T1 transcript levels between the participants and PKUPH was not always consistent with that of WT1 transcript levels. Both RUNX1-RUNX1T1 and WT1 transcript levels from 2 and 7 laboratories were individually lower than and higher than those of PKUPH, whereas for the rest 11 laboratories, one transcript level was higher than and the other was lower than that of PKUPH. Conclusion: The reported RUNX1-RUNX1T1 and WT1 transcript levels were different among laboratories for the same sample. Most of the participated laboratories reported highly consistent result with that of PKUPH. The relationship between laboratories of the different transcript levels may not be the same.

[Protective effects of berberine against exhaustion exercise induced myocardial injury in rats]

Objective: To investigate the effect and possible mechanism of berberine (Ber) on myocardial injury induced by exhaustion exercise (Ee). Methods: Forty healthy male SPF Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups using the random unit group design method: control group, Ee group and Ee plus Ber group (low: 50 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1), medium: 100 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1) and high dose: 150 mg·kg(-1)·d(-1), n=8 each). Ber (1.5 ml) or equal volume saline was given per gavage for 14 days. Rats assigned to Ee groups underwent Ee swimming once daily and rats in control group remain sedentary. After 14 days, echocardiographic measurements were performed and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and fractional shortening (LVFS), left ventricular diastolic diameter (LVIDd) and left ventricular systolic diameter (LVIDs) were obtained. The morphological structure of heart was detected by HE and Masson staining. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cardiomyocytes apoptosis was detected by TUNEL method. The protein expression of myocardial hypertrophy marker protein B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and apoptotic marker protein (Bcl-2, Bax) in rat myocardial tissue was detected by Western blot. Results: (1) Both LVFS and LVEF were significantly lower, and LVIDs and LVIDd were significantly larger in Ee group than those in control group (all P<0.01). The LVFS and LVEF in medium dose of Ber and high-dose Ber groups were significantly higher, and the LVIDs and LVIDd were significantly smaller than those in Ee group (all P<0.01). (2) The results of HE staining showed that the myocardial cells in control group were closely arranged, regular, normal in morphology, clear in structure, and uniform in staining. The myocardial cells of rats in Ee group were disarranged, cell staining was uneven, and vacuoles appeared in the cytoplasm. The disorder of myocardial cell arrangement and unequal staining in the medium dose of Ber were attenuated than in Ee group. The Masson staining results showed that the myocardial cells in control group were closely arranged, regular, normal in shape, clear in structure, and rarely blue-stained (fibrosis). Myocardial cells in rats in Ee group showed obvious fibrosis. The myocardial cell fibrosis in rats with medium dose of Ber was significantly reduced than exercise group. (3) MDA content in myocardial tissue of rats in Ee group was significantly higher than that of control group, and MDA content in myocardial tissue of rats in medium dose of Ber group was significantly lower than in Ee group (P<0.01). The SOD activity of myocardial tissue in rats was significantly lower than that of control group, while that of rats with medium dose of Ber was significantly higher than that of rats in Ee group (P<0.01). (4) TUNEL staining results showed that only a small amount of apoptosis myocardial cells were seen in control group, and a large number of apoptosis myocardial cells were seen in rats in Ee group. However, the number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes in medium dose of Ber was significantly lower than that in Ee group. The AI of rat cardiomyocytes was significantly higher than that of control group (P<0.01), and the AI of rat cardiomyocytes in median dose of Ber group was significantly lower than in Ee group (P<0.01). (5) BNP and Bax protein expression in the myocardial tissues of rats in Ee group were significantly higher than in control group (P<0.01). BNP and Bax protein expression in the myocardial tissues in median dose of Ber group were significantly lower than that of Ee group (P<0.01). The myocardial protein expression level of Bax was significantly higher, and the myocardial protein level of Bcl-2 was significantly lower in Ee group than in control group (both P<0.01), treatment with median dose of Ber could partly reverse above changes (both P<0.01). Conclusion: Ber can attenuate exhaustion exercise induced myocardial injury and remodeling in rats, and the beneficial effects of Ber might possibly be mediated by reducing free radical release and cardiomyocytes apoptosis.

Aeromicrobium endophyticum sp. nov., an endophytic actinobacterium isolated from reed (Phragmites australis)

A Gram-staining-positive, motile and short-rod-shaped actinobacterium designated 9W16Y-2^T was isolated from surface-sterilized leaves of reed (Phragmites australis) collected from Taklamakan Desert in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. Colonies were pale greenish yellow, circular, smooth, and convex. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain 9W16Y-2^T exhibited highest sequence similarities with Aeromicrobium camelliae CGMCC 1.12942^T (99.0%) and Aeromicrobium erythreum NRRL B-3381^T (97.2%). Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and single-copy phylogenetic marker genes (pMGs) showed that strain 9W16Y-2^T belonged to the genus Aeromicrobium and formed a monophyletic clade with Aeromicrobium camelliae CGMCC 1.12942^T. Furthermore, average nucleotide identity (ANI) and DNA-DNA hybridization (DDH) clearly separated strain 9W16Y-2^T from the other species of the genus Aeromicrobium with values below the thresholds for species delineation. The G+C content of the genomic DNA is 68.9 mol%. The diagnostic diamino acid of the cell-wall peptidoglycan was LL-diaminopimelic acid. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H₄). The major fatty acids (> 10% of the total fatty acids) were C_18:0 10-methyl (TBSA) (28.2%), C_16:0 (21.0%), C_16:0 2-OH (20.8%) and C_18:1ω9c (12.8%). The polar lipid profile comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, an unidentified aminophospholipid and an unidentified lipid. Based on the phylogenic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, strain 9W16Y-2^T represents a novel species of the genus Aeromicrobium, for which the name Aeromicrobium endophyticum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 9W16Y-2^T (= CGMCC 1.13876^T = JCM 33141^T).

[Mortality attributable to inadequate intake of fruits among population aged 25 and above in China, 2013]

Objective: To assess the mortality attributable to low fruit intake among people over 25 years old in China, 2013, and its effect on life expectancy. Methods: Based on data collected from China Chronic Disease and Risk Factor Surveillance in 2013, the average fruit intake in different genders and areas were calculated. Potential impact fraction (PIF) was used to examine the impact on deaths, mortality and life expectancy. Results: The average daily fruit intake was (113.3±168.9) g among people over 25 years old, with (103.6±160.1) g for men and (122.7±176.6) g for women, in China in 2013. Fruit intake for urban residents was significantly higher than that in rural residents and higher in eastern regions than that in central or western regions. Scores that attributable to low fruit intake accounted for 15.21% of the total deaths and the population attributable fraction of inadequate intake of fruits to associated diseases was 35.00%. PIF for all the deaths in rural residents (16.50%) appeared higher than that of the urban residents (13.88%), and higher in the residents living in the eastern region (15.48%) than that in the central (16.27%) or western (13.75%) regions. Number of deaths that attributable to low fruit intake was 1.348 4 million. Deaths caused by related diseases appeared as: ischemic heart disease (472.5 thousands), hemorrhagic stroke (338.8 thousands), ischemic stroke (259.0 thousands), lung cancer (208.4 thousands), esophageal cancer (60.7 thousands), laryngeal cancer (5.4 thousands) and oral cancer (3.6 thousands). Numbers of all deaths and related diseases for urban residents were lower than that of the rural residents, with central regions (452.7 thousands) higher than that in the eastern (531.1 thousands) or western (364.6 thousands) regions. The average life expectancy loss caused by low fruit intake was 1.73 years, 1.80 years for men and 1.58 years for women, in this country. Loss of life expectancy in the rural residents was higher than that of the urban residents, and higher in central regions than that in the eastern or western regions. Conclusions: The intake of fruit was far lower than the recommended standard set for the Chinese people. Population attributable fraction was related to the associated diseases caused by inadequate intake of fruits which also made serious impact on life expectancy.

[Number of deaths that attributable to high fasting plasma glucose among population aged 25 and above and its impact on life expectancy in China, 2013]

Objective: To analyze deaths that attributable to high fasting plasma glucose and its impact on life expectancy among Chinese residents in 2013. Methods: Data from the Mortality Surveillance Programs in National Disease Surveillance Points System and the China Chronic Disease Surveillance (2013) were used. Death attributed to high fasting plasma glucose and its impact on the life expectancy of Chinese residents were estimated, based on the principle of population attributable fraction. Results: In 2013, the total number of deaths attributed to high fasting plasma glucose among aged ≥25 years old was 621 thousand, with 333 thousand males and 288 thousand females. Diseases related to the number of deaths caused by high fasting plasma glucose would include ischemic heart disease (212 thousand) as the most important one. Cerebrovascular disease appeared the 2(nd) place, with around 181 thousand cases and then followed by diabetes (145 thousand), chronic kidney disease (52 thousand) and tuberculosis (31 thousand). After removal of the effects on high blood glucose exposure, the life expectancy of Chinese residents in 2013 would have reached 76.5 years old, an average increase of 0.7 years, compared to the average life expectancy of all deaths, with men having an increase of 0.7 years and women of 0.8 years, respectively. Conclusions: High fasting plasma glucose appeared an important risk factor for mortality and life expectancy on the Chinese residents. Programs related to prevention and control of high fasting plasma glucose and related diseases should be strengthened.

[Death and impact of life expectancy attributable to smoking in China, 2013]

Objective: To analyze the death attributable to smoking and impact of life expectancy in China in 2013. Methods: According to the characteristics of different diseases, we calculated the population attributable fractions of different diseases, death and impact of life expectancy which caused by smoking, using direct method (current smoking rate as exposure levels) and indirect method (smoking impact ratio as exposure levels), based on data from both programs of death surveillance and Chinese chronic disease risk factor surveillance of 2013. Results: In 2013, smoking caused around 1.59 million deaths which accounted for 17.38% of all deaths in China. Constituent ratio of death caused by smoking in males (23.66%) was much higher than that in females (8.30%). However, in urban areas (17.24%), it was slightly lower than that in rural areas (17.51%). Constituent ratio of death caused by smoking in the eastern regions appeared the lowest (16.81%), with western regions the highest (17.91%). In 2013, lung cancer, COPD and ischemia heart disease were the top three diseases causing deaths that related to smoking, but the top three population attributable fractions were lung cancer, COPD and nasopharyngeal carcinoma in China. In 2013, smoking caused a reduction of 2.04 years of life expectancy loss in China, with males in the western regions the highest (3.05 years). Conclusion: Smoking is still an important public health problem in China. Tobacco-control-targeted programs in the heavily involved areas could reduce the number of deaths from related diseases that caused by smoking.