[Establishment and verification of invasion syndrome prediction model in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess]

Objective: To analyze the correlative factors of invasion syndrome in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess, and to construct and verify the online nomographic prediction model. Methods: A case control study. The clinical data of 213 diabetic patients with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the training set (149 cases) and the test set (64 cases) by stratified random sampling method at a ratio of 7∶3. Synthetic minority over-sampling technique(SMOTE) was used to process the imbalanced data, then Lasso regression was used to screen out the optimal feature variables in the training set and multivariate logistic regression model was used to construct the prediction model of invasion syndrome in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess, and verify it in the training set and test set. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the prediction efficiency of the model, and the simple and online interactive dynamic web page column graph was constructed. Results: Among the 213 patients, 60 were males and 153 were females, aged of (61.4±12.0) years. A total of 25(11.74%) diabetic patients with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess developed invasion syndrome, which were included in divided into invasive K.pneumoniae liver abscesses syndrome (IKPLAS) group, and the other 188 cases were in without invasive K.pneumoniae liver abscesses syndrome (NIKPLAS) group. SMOTE algorithm was used for oversampling processing, so that the ratio of positive and negative samples was 1∶1. In the oversampling training set, 5 main risk factors were screened based on Lasso regression, namely fasting blood glucose (λ=0.063), hemoglobin (λ=-0.042), blood urea nitrogen (λ=-0.050), abscess size (λ=-0.025) and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (λ=0.450), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression model showed that fasting blood glucose (OR=1.20, 95%CI: 0.98-1.48, P=0.006), hemoglobin (OR=0.90, 95%CI: 0.86-0.95, P<0.001), blood urea nitrogen (OR=1.22, 95%CI: 1.03-1.43, P=0.017), abscess diameter (OR=0.76, 95%CI: 0.61-0.94, P=0.010), SOFA score (OR=3.08, 95%CI: 2.18-4.36, P<0.001) were associated with invasion syndrome in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess. The area under the curve of ROC in the training set was 0.966 (95%CI: 0.943-0.989), the sensitivity was 90.5%, and the specificity was 91.3%. The area under the curve of the validation set ROC was 0.946 (95%CI: 0.902-0.991), with a sensitivity of 79.6% and a specificity of 88.9%. The calibration curves drawn in the training set and the test set fit well with the ideal curve. DCA showed that the neomorph prediction model had a good clinical net benefit when predicting the risk of IKPLAS in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess was 0.10-0.40. Conclusions: Fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin, urea nitrogen, abscess size and SOFA score are the related factors for invasion syndrome in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess. The constructed column graph can effectively predict the risk of invasion syndrome in patients with diabetes complicated with Klebsiae pneumoniae liver abscess.

[Clinical study on the treatment of postoperative recurrence of lumbar disc herniation with intervertebral fusion]

OBJECTIVE

To explore clinical effect of different intervertebral fusion devices (cage) in treating postoperative recurrent lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

METHODS

One hundred and forty-two LDH patients with recurrence after simple intervertebral disc nucleus pulpoideectomy from January 2019 to January 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were treated with combined underchannel fixation and interbody fusion and divided into a single anatomical group,two-anatomical group and a single banana group according to types and numbers of implanted cage. There were 51 patients in a single anatomical group,included 29 males and 22 females,aged from 39 to 65 years old with an average of (53.74±5.68) years old;body mass index (BMI) ranged from 18.62 to 28.13 kg·m-2 with an average of (22.08±2.15) kg·m-2;the interval between operation and recurrence ranged from 0.5 to 4.0 years with an average of (2.7±0.8) years;5 patients with L3,4,35 patients with L4,5 and 11 patients with L5S1;a single anatomical cage was implanted. There were 46 patients in two-anatomical group,included 25 males and 21 females,aged from 37 to 66 years old with an average of (54.52±6.02) years old;BMI ranged from 18.25 to 28.44 kg·m-2 with an average of (21.74±1.83) kg·m-2;the interval between operation and recurrence ranged from 0.5 to 5.0 years with an average of (2.7±0.9) years;4 patients with L3,4,32 patients with L4,5 and 10 patients with L5S1;two-anatomical cages were implanted. There were 45 patients in a single banana group,included 22 males and 23 females,aged from 38 to 65 years old with an average of (54.49±6.45) years old;BMI ranged from 18.85 to 28.20 kg·m-2 with an average of (21.63±1.59) kg·m-2;the interval between operation and recurrence ranged from 0.5 to 5.0 years with an average of (2.6±1.0) years;3 patients with L3,4,36 patients with L4,5 and 16 patients with L5S1;a single banana cage was implanted. Operation time,intraoperative blood loss,incision length,postoperative incision drainage volume,hospital stay and complications among 3 groups were observed and compared. The height of intervertebral space before and after operation,curvature of lordosis and the postoperative intervertebral fusion were compared. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used to evaluate degree of lumbar pain and lumbar function before operation,1 and 6 months after operation,respectively.

RESULTS

All patients among 3 groups were followed up at least 6 months,and no cases were fell out. There were no significant difference in operation time,intraoperative blood loss,incision length,postoperative incision drainage volume and hospital stay among 3 groups (P>0.05). At 6 months after operation,the height of intervertebral space in two-anatomical group and a single group were [(11.08±1.78) mm,(10.95±1.62) mm],curvature of lordosis were [(12.05±1.86) °,(11.63±1.57) °],which were higher than those in a single dissection group (10.14±1.54) mm,(10.92±1.45) °,and the difference were statistically significant (P<0.05). The interbody fusion rate between two-anatomical and a banana group (95.65%,95.56%) were higher than that in a single anatomical group (78.43%) at 6 months after operation (P<0.05). VAS and ODI of lumbar among 3 groups were decreased at 1 and 6 months after operation (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in complications among 3 groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The three fusion devices could achieve significant results in treating postoperative recurrence of LDH,but the implantation of two-anatomical cage and a single banana cage are more helpful to maintain the height of intervertebral space and lordosis curvature of patients with postoperative recurrence of LDH,and obtain good intervertebral fusion results.

[Incidence and case fatality rates of cardiovascular diseases in urban and rural community-dwelling populations in eastern, central and western regions of China]

Objective: To evaluate the incidence and case fatality rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among populations in urban and rural communities in eastern, central and western regions of China. Methods: The present study was based on the data of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE)-China cohort, which enrolled participants who had at least one follow-up visit and complete information on age and sex. Information on baseline demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, and prevention and treatment for CVD were collected. CVD and mortality events were documented using the standardized case report form of the PURE Global Study to assess the incidence and case fatality rate of CVD among populations in urban and rural communities in eastern, central and western China. Results: This study included a total of 47 262 community-dwelling participants (age: (51.1±9.6) years; female, n=27 529, 58.2%) from 115 urban and rural communities in 12 provinces across the eastern, central, and western regions of China. Over a follow-up period of 11.9 (9.5, 12.6) years, 2 686 deaths and 5 873 cardiovascular events were documented. The incidence of CVD was 11.90 (95%CI: 11.60-12.21)/1 000 person-years. A significant difference in CVD incidence was observed across regions (Ptrend<0.001), which was highest in the western provinces (13.99 (95%CI: 13.33-14.65)/1 000 person-years), intermediate in the eastern provinces (11.92 (95%CI: 11.52-12.33)/1 000 person-years), and lowest in the central provinces (8.87 (95%CI: 8.25-9.50)/1 000 person-years). The 1-year case fatality rate of CVD demonstrated an increasing trend from eastern to western regions (eastern: 10.20% (95%CI: 6.95-14.73); central: 13.50% (95%CI: 9.90-18.14); western: 18.62% (95%CI: 14.95-22.94); Ptrend<0.001). Moreover, the incidence of major CVD was consistently higher in rural areas compared with urban areas across eastern (P<0.001), central (P=0.01) and western (P<0.001)_regions, respectively. The 1-year case fatality rate in rural areas was also significantly higher compared with that in urban areas in both eastern (P<0.001) and western regions (P=0.02). Conclusions: The incidence and case fatality rate of CVD were high among middle-aged population in China, especially those in western regions with low socioeconomic levels and in rural areas.

[Analysis of efficacy and safety of daratumumab-containing regimen in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma patients]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) patients with combination regimen of daratumumab. Methods: The clinical data of 42 RRMM patients admitted to Qingdao Municipal Hospital from December 2020 to November 2023 were retrospectively analyzed, which included 26 males and 16 females, with a median age of 59 (47, 82) years old. According to the number of courses of treatment with Daratumumab, patients were divided into three groups: long course group (≥9 courses, n=21), medium course group (7-8 courses, n=12), and short course group (≤6 courses, n=9). The deadline for follow-up was November 10, 2023, and the follow-up period was 15.6 (6.0, 34.0) months. After completing at least 2 courses of treatment, patients were evaluated for efficacy, including stringent complete response (sCR), complete response (CR), very good partial response (VGPR), partial response (PR), minimal response (MR), stable disease (SD), and progressive disease (PD). Basic clinical characteristics of patients, overall response rate of treatment, and adverse reactions were statistically analyzed. Kaplan-Meier method was used to compare the differences of progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with different courses of treatment. Results: Among the 42 patients, 15 (35.7%) had extramedullary disease or plasmacytic leukemia, 7 (16.6%) had amyloidosis, and 18 (42.9%) had renal insufficiency. In Mayo stage, 25 patients (59.5%) were at high risk of myeloma cytogenetic stratification, 8 patients (19%) were standard risk, 9 patients (21.4%) had no cytogenetic data. There were 16 patients with second-line treatment (38.0%), 13 patients with third-line treatment (31%), and 13 patients with more than fourth-line treatment (31%). All patients received at least 2 courses of treatment, achieving the best degree of disease response in 4 cases of sCR (9.5%), 3 cases of CR (7.1%), 10 cases of VGPR (23.8%), 11 cases of PR (26.2%), and 6 cases of MR (14.2%). The overall response rate (ORR) was 80.9% (34/42). The overall response rate was 100% (21/21) in the long course group, 91.6% (11/12) in the medium course group and 22.2% (2/9) in the short course group. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the duration of PFS was 5.0 (95%CI: 3.1-6.9) months in the short course group,>8.0 months in the medium course group, and>38.0 months in the long course group, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Grade≥3 adverse reactions were mainly neutropenia (3 cases) and thrombocytopenia (1 case). None of the patients discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions. Conclusion: Treatment of RRMM with a regimen containing Daratumumab requires a longer course of treatment to achieve maximum efficacy and the adverse reactions can be controlled.

DACH1 attenuated PA-induced renal tubular injury through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

Palmitic acid (PA), the major saturated fatty acid in the blood, often induces the initiation and progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. DACH1 is an important regulator of kidney functions. Herein, we investigated the roles of DACH1 in PA-induced kidney injury.

METHODS

Clinical data from the NHANES database were subjected to analyse the association between serum PA (sPA), blood glucose and kidney function. Molecular docking of PA was performed with DACH1. Immunohistochemistry, cell viability, annexin V/7-AAD double staining, TUNEL assay, immunofluorescent staining, autophagic flux analysis, qRT-PCR and western blot were performed.

RESULTS

Clinical data confirmed that sPA was increased significantly in the pathoglycemia individuals compared with controls and correlated negatively with renal function. Our findings suggested that PA could dock with DACH1. DACH1 enhances cell viability by inhibiting apoptosis and attenuating autophagy blockage induced by PA. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that DACH1 ameliorated inflammation and fibrosis through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and TGF-β/Smad signalling pathway in PA-treated renal tubular epithelial cell line (HK-2).

CONCLUSIONS

This study proved that sPA presents a risk factor for kidney injuries and DACH1 might serve as a protective target against renal function deterioration in diabetic patients.

[A case of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by inhalation injury]

A 54-year-old male patient with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by inhalation injury was admitted to the First People's Hospital of Lianyungang City on June 26th, 2022. After admission, the patient received invasive mechanical ventilation (driving pressure-guided ventilator parameter setting) combined with prone position treatment immediately, but his condition continued to deteriorate. Five hours after admission, the patient received veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) supporting treatment, treatment based on ultra-protective lung ventilation strategy combined with prone position ventilation for more than 12 hours per day. At the same time, pulse contour cardiac output monitoring technology was used to monitor cardiac index and extravascular lung water index to guide volume management, and fiberoptic bronchoalveolar lavage was performed for several times. After that, the patient was successfully weaned from VV-ECMO and ventilator, and then discharged from hospital successfully. During follow-up of one year after the injury, the patient showed no obvious respiratory symptoms, and his lung function was basically normal.

[A follow-up study on the pain changes trend and effects in patients diagnosed with herpes zoster in Beijing City]

Objective: To understand the changes in pain and its effects in patients with the diagnosis of herpes zoster. Methods: A total of 3 487 patients diagnosed with herpes zoster (HZ) for the first time at the outpatient department of Miyun District Hospital from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019, were included in the study. The information of patients was registered and issued with a record card. Patients were required to record the time of pain and rash by themselves. Telephone follow-up was conducted at 21, 90, 180 and 365 days after the onset of rashes, including hospitalization, location of rash and pain, and the time of start and end. The impact of pain on life was evaluated by the Zoster Brief Pain Inventory (ZBPI). Results: The age of 2 999 HZ patients included in the analysis were (53±16) years old, including 1 377 (45.91%) males and 1 903 (63.45%) patients aged 50 years and older. After 21 days of rash, mild, moderate and severe pain accounted for 20.87% (626 cases), 37.98% (1 139 cases) and 33.81% (1 014 cases), respectively. Only 5.07% (152 cases) had no pain or discomfort, and 2.27% (68 cases) had no pain but discomfort. Most of the pain sites were consistent with the rash sites. The chest and back and waist and abdomen were the most common, accounting for 35.58% (1 067 cases) and 29.18% (875 cases), respectively, followed by the limbs and face and neck, accounting for 16.74% (502 cases) and 16.40% (492 cases), respectively. The M (Q1, Q3) of pain days in the HZ patients was 14 (8, 20) days, and the incidence of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) was 6.63% (171/2 580) (excluding 419 patients who refused to visit or lost to visit on 90 days after the onset of rash). The pain score of HZ patients within 21 days after the rash was (5.19±2.73) points, and the pain score of PHN patients was (7.61±2.13) points, which was significantly higher than that of non-PHN patients [(5.04±2.69) points] (P<0.001). Daily activities, emotions, walking ability, work, social interaction, sleep and recreation were affected for 21 days after the rash in HZ patients, ranging from 60.79% to 83.83%, with sleep being the most affected (83.83%). The impact scores of pain and life dimensions in PHN patients ranged from 4.59 to 7.61 points on the ZBPI scale, which were higher than those in non-PHN patients (2.49-5.04) (t values ranged from 8.86 to 11.67, all P values <0.001). Conclusion: The proportion of pain in HZ patients after the diagnosis is high, and the pain is more obvious in patients with PHN and HZ patients aged 50 and older, which has a greater impact on their daily lives.

Identification of in vivo metabolites of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus by UHPLC-Q/Orbitrap HRMS

INTRODUCTION

Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus has the effects of relieving cough, removing phlegm, and reducing asthma, but little is known about the metabolic and distribution of its chemical constituents in vivo. Therefore, it is necessary to study the metabolism of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus in vivo.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to (1) analyze the distribution of prototype compounds and metabolites of the chemical constituents of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus in rat and (2) infer the metabolites and metabolic pathways of the chemical constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A C18 column (3 × 100 mm, 2.6 μm) was used. The mobile phase was water containing 0.1% formic acid (eluent A) and acetonitrile containing 0.1% formic acid (eluent B) at a discharge rate of 0.3 mL/min. Mass spectra of biological samples were collected in electrospray ionization (ESI) positive ion mode in the m/z 100-1500 scan range. The obtained biological samples were then subjected to chemical analysis, including plasma, urine, feces, and heart, liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys, stomach, and small intestine tissues. Prototype compounds and metabolites were identified.

RESULTS

In all, 40 prototype compounds and 78 metabolites, including 26 phase I metabolites and 52 phase II metabolites, were identified using UHPLC-Q/Orbitrap HRMS. Eight possible metabolic pathways (reduction, hydrolysis, dehydration, methylation, hydroxylation, sulfation, glucuronidation, and demethylation) were proposed. The prototype compounds were predominantly distributed in lung tissues. The metabolites were mainly distributed in plasma and kidney tissues.

CONCLUSION

We systematically investigated the metabolites of Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus in vivo. We suggest metabolic pathways that might be relevant for further metabolic studies and screening of active ingredients of Citrus Sarcodactylis Fructus in vivo.

Anomalous staged hot-electron acceleration by two-plasmon decay instability in magnetized plasmas

We present a staged hot-electron acceleration mechanism of the two-plasmon decay (TPD) instability in the transverse magnetic field under the parameters relevant to inertial confinement fusion experiments. After being accelerated by the forward electron plasma wave (FEPW) of TPD, the hot-electrons can be anomalously accelerated again by the backward electron plasma wave (BEPW) of TPD and then obtain higher energy. Moreover, the surfatron acceleration mechanism of TPD in the magnetic field is also confirmed, the electrons trapped by the TPD daughter EPWs are accelerated in the direction along the wave front. Interestingly, the velocity of electrons accelerated by surfing from the FEPW is quite easily close to the BEPW phase velocity, which markedly enhances the efficiency of the staged acceleration. The coexistence of these two acceleration mechanisms leads to a significant increase of energetic electrons generated by TPD in the magnetic field. Meanwhile the EPWs are dissipated, TPD instability is effectively suppressed, and the laser transmission increases.

[Investigation and factor analysis of postoperative surgical site infections in emergency abdominal surgery in China from 2018 to 2021 based on Chinese SSI Surveillance]

Objective: We investigated the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) following emergency abdominal surgery (EAS) in China and further explored its risk factors, providing a reference for preventing and controlling SSI after EAS. Methods: This was an observational study. Data of patients who had undergone EAS and been enrolled in the Chinese SSI Surveillance Program during 2018-2021were retrospectively analyzed. All included patients had been followed up for 30 days after surgery. The analyzed data consisted of relevant patient characteristics and perioperative clinical data, including preoperative hemoglobin, albumin, and blood glucose concentrations, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, grade of surgical incision, intestinal preparation, skin preparation, location of surgical site, approach, and duration. The primary outcome was the incidence of SSI occurring within 30 days following EAS. SSI was defined as both superficial and deep incisional infections and organ/space infections, diagnoses being supported by results of microbiological culture of secretions and pus. Secondary outcomes included 30-day postoperative mortality rates, length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), duration of postoperative hospitalization, and associated costs. The patients were classified into two groups, SSI and non-SSI, based on whether an infection had been diagnosed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with SSI following EAS. Results: The study cohort comprised 5491 patients who had undergone EAS, comprising 3169 male and 2322 female patients. SSIs were diagnosed in 168 (3.1%) patients after EAS (SSI group); thus, the non-SSI group consisted of 5323 patients. The SSIs comprised superficial incision infections in 69 (41.1%), deep incision infections in 51 (30.4%), and organ or space infections in 48 (28.6%). Cultures of secretions and pus were positive in 115 (68.5%) cases. The most frequently detected organism was Escherichia coli (47/115; 40.9%). There were no significant differences in sex or body mass index between the SSI and non-SSI groups (both P>0.05). However, the proportion of individuals aged 60 years or older was significantly greater in the SSI than in the non-SSI group (49.4% [83/168] vs. 27.5% [1464/5323), χ2=38.604, P<0.001). Compared with the non-SSI group, the SSI group had greater proportions of patients with diabetes (11.9% [20/168] vs. 4.8% [258/5323], χ2=16.878, P<0.001), hypertension (25.6% [43/168] vs. 12.2% [649/5323], χ2=26.562, P<0.001); hemoglobin <110 g/L (27.4% [46/168] vs. 13.1% [697/5323], χ2=28.411, P<0.001), and albuminemia <30 g/L (24.4% [41/168] vs. 5.9% [316/5323], χ2=91.352, P<0.001), and a reduced rate of preoperative skin preparation (66.7% [112/168] vs. 75.9% [4039/5323], χ2=7.491, P=0.006). Furthermore, fewer patients in the SSI group had preoperative ASA scores of between one and two (56.0% [94/168] vs. 88.7% [4724/5323], χ2=162.869, P<0.001) in the non-SSI group. The incidences of contaminated and infected incisions were greater in the SSI group (63.1% [106/168] vs. 38.6% [2056/5323], χ2=40.854, P<0.001). There was a significant difference in surgical site distribution between the SSI and non-SSI groups (small intestine 29.8% [50/168] vs. 10.6% [565/5323], colorectal 26.2% [44/168] vs. 5.6% [298/5 323], and appendix 24.4% [41/168] vs. 65.1% [3465/5323]) χ2=167.897, P<0.001), respectively. There was a significantly lower proportion of laparoscope or robotic surgery in the non-SSI group (24.4 % [41/168] vs. 74.2% [3949/5323], χ2=203.199, P<0.001); the percentage of operations of duration less than 2 hours was significantly lower in the SSI than non-SSI group (35.7% [60/168] vs. 77.4% [4119/5323], χ2=155.487, P<0.001). As to clinical outcomes, there was a higher 30-day postoperative mortality rate (3.0%[5/168] vs. 0.2%[10/5323], χ2=36.807, P<0.001) and higher postoperative ICU occupancy rate (41.7% [70/168] vs. 19.7% [1046/5323], χ2=48.748, P<0.001) in the SSI group. The median length of stay in the ICU (0[2] vs. 0[0] days, U=328597.000, P<0.001), median total length of stay after surgery (16[13] vs. 6[5] days, U=128146.000, P<0.001), and median hospitalization cost (ten thousand yuan, 4.7[4.4] vs. 1.7[1.8], U=175965.000, P<0.001) were all significantly greater in the SSI group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the absence of skin preparation before surgery (OR=2.435,95%CI: 1.690-3.508, P<0.001), preoperative albuminemia <30 g/L (OR=1.680, 95%CI: 1.081-2.610, P=0.021), contaminated or infected incisions (OR=3.031, 95%CI: 2.151-4.271, P<0.001), and laparotomy (OR=3.436, 95% CI: 2.123-5.564, P<0.001) were independent risk factors of SSI. Operative duration less than 2 hours (OR=0.465, 95%CI: 0.312-0.695, P<0.001) and ASA score of 1-2 (OR=0.416, 95% CI: 0.289-0.601, P<0.001) were identified as independent protective factors for SSI. Conclusions: It is important to consider the nutritional status in the perioperative period of patients undergoing EAS. Preoperative skin preparation should be conducted and, whenever possible, laparoscope or robot-assisted surgery. Duration of surgery should be as short as possible while maintaining surgery quality and improving patient care.

[The status of patient-reported outcomes and their correlation with the number of hospitalizations within 1 year in patients with atrial fibrillation]

Objective: To observe the status of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and their correlation with the number of hospitalizations within 1 year in patients with atrial fibrillation(AF). Methods: This study is a prospective investigation. Patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation treated in the Department of Cardiology of the Third People's Hospital of Yancheng from May 2020 to April 2021 were selected. General information and AF6 questionnaire were used to define PROs. The number of hospitalizations within 1 year after discharge was obtained. Spearman correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between PROs and the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification. The logistic regression model was used to analyze the number of hospitalizations in AF patients within 1 year. Results: A total of 197 patients were enrolled, the mean age was (74.1±9.0) years, 106 (53.8%) patients were female. The mean AF6 score was (24.3±8.3). The proportion of patients with 6 entries≥1 point exceeded 50%. There was a positive correlation between NYHA classification and PROs (r=0.360, P<0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the older age (OR=1.058, P=0.004) and the AF6 scores≥24(OR=4.082, P<0.001) were the risk factors of rehospitalization within 1 year for AF patients. Conclusions: The PROs of AF patients are at the medium level and poor levels of PROs are associated with increased risk of rehospitalization within 1 year.

[Association between sleep quality/physical activity and metabolic syndrome in urban population of Xinjiang]

Objective: To explore the relationship between sleep/physical activity and metabolic syndrome (MS) in urban population of Xinjiang. Methods: This is a prospective, cross-sectional study. From July 2019 to September 2021, a two-stage random sampling method was used to randomly select residents aged 30-74 years from two communities in Urumqi of northern Xinjiang and Korla of southern Xinjiang. General situation questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Scale (PSQI) survey, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) survey, physical examination, physiological and biochemical indicators were obtained and analyzed. The dose-response curves of healthy sleep score and physical activity with metabolic syndrome were plotted using restricted cubic spline curves. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the independent and combined effects of sleep quality and physical activity on MS risk. Results: A total of 10 209 participants were included. The mean age of the subjects was (47.1±9.1) years, and males accounted for 51.3% (5 275/10 209). The prevalence of MS was significantly associated with the healthy sleep score and physical activity. Compared to the subjects with healthy sleep, OR (95%CI) of MS with intermediate, and poor sleep were 1.20(1.06-1.35), 1.23(1.04-1.45), respectively. Compared to the subjects with high physical activity, OR (95%CI) of MS with medium, low physical activity was 1.34(1.15-1.56), 1.42(1.19-1.70), respectively. There was a significant interaction between sleep and physical activity in MS (P for interaction=0.002). Compared to the subjects with high physical activity and healthy sleep, OR (95%CI) of MS with poor sleep and high physical activity was 2.03 (1.24-3.33, P for trend=0.016). Conclusion: Poor sleep quality and lack of physical activity are not only independent risk factors for an increased risk of MS but also have a combined effect with an increased risk of MS.

[Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of Sjögren's syndrome in China]

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocyte proliferation and progressive exocrine gland damage. In addition to the impairment of salivary and lacrimal gland function, SS can present with multi-system and multi-organ involvement, accompanied by autoantibodies in serum and hyperimmunoglobulinemia. SS can be divided into primary and secondary forms based on the absence or presence, respectively, of concurrent connective tissue diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. Based on evidence and guidelines from China and other countries, the Chinese Rheumatology Association drafted standardized criteria for the diagnosis and treatment of primary SS. The objectives were to standardize the detection and interpretation of key indicators for the diagnosis of SS, including serum anti-SSA antibody and labial gland pathology, suggest the use of the widely accepted European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)-SS disease activity index for the evaluation of the disease, and standardize the rational management of SS patients with topical and systemic therapies.

[Effects of advanced platelet-rich fibrin on deep partial-thickness burn wounds in nude mice]

Objective: To explore the effects of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) on deep partial-thickness burn wounds in nude mice and its mechanism. Methods: The experimental study method was adopted. Forty healthy volunteers in Subei People's Hospital were recruited, including 32 females and 8 males, aged 60 to 72 years. Leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) and A-PRF membranes were prepared after venous blood was extracted from them. The microstructure of two kinds of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membranes was observed by field emission scanning electron microscope. The number of samples was 3 in the following experiments. The L-PRF and A-PRF membranes were divided into L-PRF group and A-PRF group and cultured, and then the release concentrations of platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in culture supernatant were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on culture day 1, 3, 7, and 14. Mice L929 fibroblasts (Fbs) were divided into L-PRF group and A-PRF group, and cultured with L-PRF or A-PRF conditioned medium, respectively. On culture day 1, 3, and 7, the cell proliferation activity was detected by thiazole blue method. The cell migration rate was detected and calculated at 24 h after scratching by scratch test. Thirty-six male BALB/c nude mice aged 6-8 weeks were selected to make a deep partial-thickness burn wound on one hind leg, and then divided into normal saline group, L-PRF group, and A-PRF group, according to the random number table, with 12 mice in each group. The wounds of nude mice in normal saline group were only washed by normal saline, while the wounds of nude mice in L-PRF group and A-PRF group were covered with the corresponding membranes in addition. The wounds of nude mice in the 3 groups were all bandaged and fixed with dressings. On treatment day 4, 7, and 14, the wound healing was observed and the wound healing rate was calculated. Masson staining was used to observe the new collagen in wound tissue, and immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the percentage of CD31 positive cells in the wound. Data were statistically analyzed with independent sample t test, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, analysis of variance for factorial design, one-way analysis of variance, and least significant difference test. Results: L-PRF membrane's dense network structure was composed of coarse fibrin bundles, with scattered white blood cells and platelets with complete morphology. A-PRF membrane's loose network structure was composed of fine fibrin bundles, with scattered small amount of deformed white blood cells and platelets. On culture day 1, the release concentration of PDGF-AB in PRF culture supernatant in A-PRF group was significantly higher than that in L-PRF group (t=5.73, P<0.05), while the release concentrations of VEGF in PRF culture supernatant in the two groups were similar (P>0.05). On culture day 3, 7, and 14, the release concentrations of PDGF-AB and VEGF in PRF culture supernatant in A-PRF group were significantly higher than those in L-PRF group (with t values of 6.93, 7.45, 5.49, 6.97, 8.97, and 13.64, respectively, P<0.05). On culture day 3, 7, and 14, the release concentrations of PDGF-AB and VEGF in PRF culture supernatant in the two groups were all significantly higher than those in the previous time points within the group (P<0.05). On culture day 1, 3, and 7, the proliferation activity of mice Fbs in A-PRF group was 0.293±0.034, 0.582±0.054, and 0.775±0.040, respectively, which were significantly stronger than 0.117±0.013, 0.390±0.036, and 0.581±0.037 in L-PRF group (with t values of 8.38, 5.14, and 6.16, respectively, P<0.05). At 24 h after scratching, the migration rate of mice Fbs in A-PRF group was (60.9±2.2)%, which was significantly higher than (39.1±2.3)% in L-PRF group (t=11.74, P<0.05). On treatment day 4, the wound exudates of nude mice in L-PRF group and A-PRF group were less with no obvious signs of infection, while the wounds of nude mice in normal saline group showed more exudation. On treatment day 7, the wounds of nude mice in L-PRF group and A-PRF group were dry and crusted, while there was still a small amount of exudate in the wounds of nude mice in normal saline group. On treatment day 14, the wounds of nude mice in A-PRF group tended to heal; a small portion of wounds remained in nude mice in L-PRF group; the wound of nude mice was still covered with eschar in normal saline group. On treatment day 4, 7, and 14, the wound healing rate and percentage of CD31 positive cells of nude mice in L-PRF group were all significantly higher than those in normal saline group (P<0.05); compared with those in normal saline group and L-PRF group, the wound healing rate of nude mice in A-PRF group was significantly increased (P<0.05), the newborn collagen was orderly and evenly distributed, with no excessive deposition, and the percentage of CD31 positive cells was significantly increased (P<0.05). Conclusions: The stable fibrin network structure of A-PRF can maintain the sustained release of growth factors, accelerate cell proliferation, and promote cell migration, so as to shorten the healing time and improve the healing quality of deep partial-thickness burn wounds in nude mice.

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

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

Kinetic model and Vlasov simulation verification of two-ion decay instability

A kinetic theory is developed to describe the longitudinal decay of two-ion decay (TID): The pump ion-acoustic wave (IAW) decays into two daughter IAWs with a longer wavelength. The instability growth rate and threshold are given by the theory. Both the simulations of full kinetic Vlasov and hybrid Vlasov (kinetic ions and Boltzmann electrons) are employed to verify the theory and have a high quantitative agreement with the theory for 8≤ZT_{e}/T_{i}≤15, where Z is the ion charge number and T_{i}(T_{e}) is the ion (electron) temperature. The kinetic model developed here solves a long-standing problem that the simple fluid theory underestimates growth rate by a factor of 2∼3. Also, a reasonable explanation is given to the typical characteristics of TID that the dependence curves of subharmonic growth rate γ and wave number k.

[Survey of Helicobacter pylori levofloxacin and clarithromycin resistance rates and drug resistance genes in Ningxia, 2020-2022]

Objective: To explore the rate of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin and the common mutation patterns of resistance genes in Ningxia, and to assess the concordance between phenotypic resistance and genotypic resistance. Methods: Cross-sectional study. Patients diagnosed with Hp infection in 14 hospitals in Ningxia region from February 2020 to May 2022 were retrospectively selected. Hp strains were isolated from gastric biopsy specimens of Hp-infected patients and subjected to phenotypic drug sensitivity testing and detection of resistance genes to analyze the rate of Hp resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin and the common mutation patterns of resistance genes in Ningxia region; and the concordance rate and Kappa concordance test were used to assess the concordance between phenotypic resistance and genotypic resistance. Results: A total of 1 942 Hp strains were isolated and cultured, and among the infections, 1 069 cases (55.0%) were male and 873 cases (45.0%) were female, aged (50.0±12.5) years (15-86 years). The rates of Hp resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin in Ningxia were 42.1% (818/1 942) and 40.1% (779/1 942), respectively, and the rate of dual resistance to both was 22.8% (443/1 942). The rate of resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin of Hp strains from female patients was higher than in male patients (levofloxacin: 50.4%(440/873) vs 35.4%(378/1 069); clarithromycin: 44.4%(388/873) vs 36.6%(391/1 069), both P<0.001). Among the GyrA gene mutations associated with levofloxacin resistance, the differences in mutation rate of amino acid at positions 87 and 91 were statistically significant in both drug-resistant and sensitive strains(both P<0.001), except for Asn87Thr. Hp strains were statistically significant for levofloxacin (Kappa=0.834, P<0.001) and clarithromycin (Kappa=0.829, P<0.001) had good concordance in resistance at the phenotypic and genotypic levels. Conclusion: The resistance of Hp to levofloxacin and clarithromycin in Ningxia region is severe, and there is good consistency between genotypic and phenotypic resistance.

[The mediating effect of resilience on anxiety and subjective well-being in occupational population]

Objective: To explore the current situation of anxiety, subjective well-being in occupational population and the mediating effect of resilience. Methods: From March 24th to 26th, 2020, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among occupational population aged ≥18 years old using online questionnaires. A total of 2134 valid questionnaires were obtained, with respondents from 30 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities directly under the Central Government. Their general demographic data, subjective well-being, anxiety, and resilience were collected. Pearson χ(2) test and Spearson correlation analysis were used for data analysis, and structural equation model was used to explore the mediating effect of resilience on anxiety and subjective well-being. Results: The age of the respondents ranged from 18 to 60 years old, with an average age of (31.19±7.09) years old, including 1075 (50.4%) women and 1059 (49.6%) men. The positive rates of low subjective well-being and anxiety were 46.5% (992/2134) and 28.4% (607/2134), respectively. Anxiety scores were significantly negatively correlated with subjective well-being scores and resilience scores (r(s)=-0.52, -0.41, P<0.05), while resilience was significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being (r(s)=0.32, P<0.05). Structural equation models showed that anxiety had a negative predictive effect on subjective well-being, while resilience not only had a positive predictive effect on subjective well-being, but also played a mediating role between anxiety and subjective well-being, with a mediating effect of 9.9%. Conclusion: The situation of anxiety and well-being in the occupational population is still not optimistic, and resilience has a mediating effect between anxiety and subjective well-being.

[Analysis of the efficacy of endoscopic transnasal surgery for sinonasal and skull base adenoid cystic carcinoma]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic transnasal surgery for sinonasal and skull base adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), and to analyze the prognostic factors. Methods: Data of 82 patients (43 females and 39 males, at a median age of 49 years old) with sinonasal and skull base ACC who were admitted to XuanWu Hospital, Capital Medical University between June 2007 and June 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were staged according to American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) 8th edition. The disease overall survival(OS) and disease-free survival(DFS) rates were calculated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox regression model was used for multivariate prognostic analysis. Results: There were 4 patients with stage Ⅱ, 14 patients with stage Ⅲ, and 64 patients with stage Ⅳ. The treatment strategies included purely endoscopic surgery (n=42), endoscopic surgery plus radiotherapy (n=32) and endoscopic surgery plus radiochemotherapy (n=8). Followed up for 8 to 177 months, the 5-year OS and DFS rates was 63.0% and 51.6%, respectively. The 10-year OS and DFS rates was 51.2% and 31.8%, respectively. The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that late T stage and internal carotid artery (ICA) involvement were the independent prognostic factors for survival in sinonasal and skull base ACC (all P<0.05). The OS of patients who received surgery or surgery plus radiotherapy was significantly higher than that of patients who received surgery plus radiochemotherapy (all P<0.05). Conclusions: Endoscopic transonasal surgery or combing with radiotherapy is an effective procedure for the treatment of sinonasal and skull base ACC. Late T stage and ICA involvement indicate poor prognosis.

[Analysis of the burden of disease attributable to high temperature exposure in China and globally from 1990 to 2019]

Objective: To analyze the burden of disease attributable to high temperature exposure in China and globally from 1990 to 2019, and to study the current burden of disease in relevant populations. Methods: In October 2021, based on data from the global burden of disease 2019 (GBD 2019) study, population attributable fraction (PAF), number of deaths, mortality, disability-adjusted life year (DALY) and DALY rate of Chinese and global populations with different ages and genders in 1990 and 2019 were extracted and analyzed. The rate of change was calculated, the mortality rate was normalized by the age structure of the world standard population, and the causes of disease burden caused by high temperature exposure of Chinese residents were analyzed. Results: In 2019, compared with 1990, the PAF of Chinese and global population decreased by 43.98% and 12.41% respectively, the number of deaths increased by 29.55% and 49.40% respectively, the crude mortality rate increased by 7.81% and 3.30% respectively, the DALY decreased by 48.12% and 14.41% respectively, and the DALY rate decreased by 56.82% and 40.82% respectively. The mortality rate of the ≥70 age group was higher than that of other groups. The disease burden indicators such as PAF, standardized mortality and DALY attributable to high temperature exposure in men were higher than those in women. In 2019, the main cause of DALY affected by high temperature exposure in Chinese population was ischemic heart disease (84400 person-years), and the main cause of death was ischemic heart disease (4900 cases). Conclusion: The burden of diseases attributable to high temperature exposure is still serious in China and the world at large. Targeted interventions should be formulated for men, the elderly and people with occupational exposure, and a sound surveillance system should be established to reduce the burden of diseases caused by high temperature exposure.

[Effects of screen exposure on language skills in children]

Objective: To investigate the association between screen exposure and language skills in children aged 2-5 years. Methods: There were 299 children aged 2-5 years, recruited by convenience sampling from those who visited the Center of Children's Healthcare, Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics for routine physical examination from November 2020 to November 2021. Their development status were evaluated by the children neuropsychological and behavioral scale (revision 2016). A self-designed questionnaire for parents was conducted to collect demographic and socioeconomic information and screen exposure characteristics (time and quality). One-way ANOVA and independent sample t test were applied to compare the differences in language development quotient of children with different screen exposure time and quality. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the correlation between screen exposure time and quality with language developmental quotient. Multivariate Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk of language underdevelopment in children with different screen exposure time and quality. Results: Among 299 children, 184 (61.5%) were boys and 115 (38.5%) were girls, with the age of (3.9±1.1) years. The number of children with daily screen time <60, 60-120 and>120 min was 163 children (54.5%), 86 children (28.8%) and 50 children (16.7%), respectively, with the language development quotients of 94±13, 90±13, 84±14, respectively, demonstrating a statistically significant difference (F=8.92, P<0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that screen exposure time of 60-120 and >120 min per day were both risk factors for children's language developmental quotients (OR=2.28, 95%CI 1.00-5.17, P=0.043; OR=3.96, 95%CI 1.86-9.17, P<0.001), and co-viewing and exposure to educational programs were both protective factors for children's language developmental quotients (OR=0.48, 95%CI 0.25-0.91, P=0.024, OR=0.36, 95%CI 0.19-0.70, P=0.003). Conclusions: Excessive exposure screen time and inappropriate screen exposure habits are associated with children's poorer language development. Screen exposure time should be limited and screen use should be rational to promote children's language skills.

Panscleritis After Blunt Ocular Trauma in A Child with Epididymitis

We reported an 8-year-old boy with panscleritis in left eye and right epididymitis after falling on the ground. Etiologic diagnosis played a key role in this case. Systemic examinations ruled out systemic autoimmune diseases, tumors, and infections as the cause of scleritis and suggested that the disease was caused by a local delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) induced by ocular trauma and was non-infectious. Still, the right epididymitis was infectious. Both conditions were treated successfully using steroids and antibiotics, respectively. Thus, early etiologic diagnosis and reasonable treatment are crucial to prevent visual loss.

[Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome in the setting of vemurafenib therapy for metastatic melanoma: a case report]

A 53-year-old female patient complained of 1 week of bilateral visual blurring. She was previously diagnosed with metastatic melanoma of the inguinal lymph nodes and treated with the oral targeted drug vemurafenib. She exhibited aqueous flare in the left eye, and her fundus examination revealed optic disc swelling in the left eye and bilateral serious detachment of the retinal neuroepithelial layer. Fluorescein angiography showed multiple pinpoint hyperfluorescence leakage spots in the prometaphase and appeared as multilobular dye pooling in the late phase. We diagnosed her as Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome and gave glucocorticoid treatment for eyes. Oral vemurafenib was also taken intermittently under the guidance of an oncologist. After treatment, her bilateral vision improved, the anterior segment inflammation disappeared, and the retinal neuroepithelial layer reattached, with presence of the "sunset glow" fundus.

An updated patent review of IDO1 inhibitors for cancer (2018-2022)

INTRODUCTION

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is highly related to the immune evasion of a wide range of malignancies due to its role in the immune suppression caused by the depletion of tryptophan (Trp) and the accumulation of kynurenine (Kyn). The combination of IDO1 inhibitors with other treatments represents a promising strategy in immunotherapy, although considerable challenges lie ahead.

AREAS COVERED

This review focuses on patent publications searched from Espacenet and Google Scholar, and related to IDO1 inhibitors with potential anti-cancer utilization during the period 2018-2022.

EXPERT OPINION

Despite the clinical trial failure of the first-in-class IDO1 inhibitor epacadostat in combination with pembrolizumab, numerous studies have been carried on to pursue more efficient IDO1-based immune-modulating therapeutic solutions. A large number of IDO1 inhibitors with new structures and design concepts have been produced with the impetus of crystallographic studies, and have shown great research potential. The elaboration on the combination of IDO1 inhibitors with other targeting agents, the more precise selection of patients, the identification of more reliable biomarkers for evaluating the IDO1 treatment, and the investigation of possible toxicity, are critical factors to promote IDO1-based immunotherapies from bench to bedside.

Age-related changes of lens thickness and density in different age phases

AIM: To explore the changes in lens thickness and density with age. METHODS: A Chinese population-based retrospective study was performed. A total of 497 individuals (490 right eyes and 495 left eyes), ranging from 3 to 69 years old were included. Lens images obtained from IOL Master 700 were used to measure lens thickness and density. Piecewise regression model was chosen to illustrate the relationship of lens thickness and density with age. RESULTS: The proportion of people aged 3-18, 19-40, over 40 was 38.6%, 50.9% and 10.5% respectively. The whole lens thickness decreased with age during the first 7 years of life, kept stable from 8 to 16 years old, and then increased at the rate of about 27 µm per year. The thickness of the lens cortex and nucleus tended to decrease first and then increase with age, which was dependent on age stages. The whole lens density also decreased with age until 7 years old. The increasing rate of lens density was different in different age groups. The whole lens density increased rapidly from 7 to 22 years old and slowed down after 22 years old. Similarly, the changing tendency of lens cortical and nuclear density differed in different age phases. CONCLUSION: Both lens thickness and density are significantly associated with age, whereas they do not change linearly with age. Moreover, it is necessary to increase the population over 40 years old and conduct further research.

Molecules related to diabetic retinopathy in the vitreous and involved pathways

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common complications of diabetes and major cause of blindness among people over 50 years old. Current studies showed that the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) played a central role in the pathogenesis of DR, and application of anti-VEGF has been widely acknowledged in treatment of DR targeting retinal neovascularization. However, anti-VEGF therapy has several limitations such as drug resistance. It is essential to develop new drugs for future clinical practice. The vitreous takes up 80% of the whole globe volume and is in direct contact with the retina, making it possible to explore the pathogenesis of DR by studying related factors in the vitreous. This article reviewed recent studies on DR-related factors in the vitreous, elaborating the VEGF upstream hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway and downstream pathways phosphatidylinositol diphosphate (PIP2), phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Moreover, factors other than VEGF contributing to the pathogenesis of DR in the vitreous were also summarized, which included factors in four major systems, kallikrein-kinin system such as bradykinin, plasma kallikrein, and coagulation factor XII, oxidative stress system such as lipid peroxide, and superoxide dismutase, inflammation-related factors such as interleukin-1β/6/13/37, and interferon-γ, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) system such as MMP-9/14. Additionally, we also introduced other DR-related factors such as adiponectin, certain specific amino acids, non-coding RNA and renin (pro) receptor in separate studies.

[Effectiveness investigation on left bundle branch area pacing in 10 infants and toddlers]

Objective: To explore the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) in children aged ≤3 years. Methods: A total of 10 children aged ≤3 years who were diagnosed with brady arrhythmia in the First Hospital of Tsinghua University from September 2020 to September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All the children met the indication of permanent pacemaker implantation and underwent LBBAP successfully. The intraoperative data (pacing parameters, electrocardiogram and radiographic imaging), cardiac ultrasound data and clinical data during regular postoperative follow-up were recorded. The preoperative and postoperative data were compared using matched samples t test. Results: Ten children (aged (1.6±0.7) years with weight of (10.3±2.5) kg) underwent LBBAP successfully. The QRS wave duration on the postoperative electrocardiogram was (100±9) ms, and the percentage of ventricular pacing was (97±7)%. The postoperative follow-up period was 6 (6, 12) months. At 1 week after operation, the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter Z scores in these children reduced significantly compared with those before operation (1.3±0.6 vs. 3.6±1.1, t=9.37, P<0.001). During the follow-up period, cardiac function was normal and the last left ventricular ejection fraction was (66±4)% in all children. At the last follow-up, the pacing threshold of the 10 children was smaller than 1.0 V and was acceptable. Compared with the intraoperative baseline values, the pacing threshold was slightly higher ((0.8±0.1) vs. (0.5±0.1) V, t=-5.27, P=0.001). However, no significant difference was found regarding sensing threshold ((16±5) vs. (14±4) mV, t=-0.83, P=0.426) and impedance ((584±88) vs. (652±86) Ω, t=2.26, P=0.050). During follow-up, no electrode related complications were recorded. Conclusions: LBBAP is safe and effective for infants and toddlers. Narrow QRS pacing with stable pacing parameters and normal cardiac function could be achieved postoperatively.

Usefulness of transperineal shear wave elastography of levator ani muscle in women with stress urinary incontinence

This study aimed to quantitatively assess the quality of levator ani muscle (LAM) using shear wave elastography (SWE) and to evaluate the association between the elasticity of LAM and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The study population included 32 women with SUI and 34 women with normal pelvic support. The thickness of LAM, bladder neck descent (BND), and urethral funneling (UF) were assessed by transperineal ultrasound. LAM elasticity was measured by SWE at rest and during the maximal Valsalva maneuver. Age, menopause, BND, and UF showed a positive correlation with SUI. There was no significant between-group difference in the elastic modulus values of LAM at rest. The thickness of LAM in women with SUI was greater than that in control group at rest and during the maximal Valsalva maneuver (P < 0.001). The elastic modulus values of E_max and E_mean were significantly increased from rest to the maximal Valsalva maneuver in all participants (56.24 vs 82.43 kPa and 47.92 vs 72.37 kPa, P < 0.001). The change of these variables from rest to the maximal Valsalva maneuver in the control group was more obvious than that in the SUI group (34.09 vs 17.87 kPa and 31.55 vs 16.82 kPa, P < 0.05). The elasticity of LAM, as quantified by SWE, may potentially be used as an index for predicting SUI.

[Clinicopathological features of hepatic fibrinogen storage disease in children]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of hepatic fibrinogen storage disease (FSD) in children. Methods: The clinical, histopathologic, immunophenotypic, ultrastructural and gene sequencing data of 4 FSD cases were collected from September 2019 to January 2021 in the Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China. Retrospective analysis and literature review were conducted. Results: There were 4 cases of FSD, 3 males and 1 female, aged 3 years and 3 months to 6 years (median age, 3 years and 4 months). The clinical manifestations were abnormal liver function and abnormal blood coagulation function, for which 2 cases had family genetic history. Liver biopsies revealed that, besides liver steatosis, fibrosis and inflammation, there were single or multiple eosinophilic inclusion bodies of various sizes and surrounding transparent pale halo in hepatocytes. Immunohistochemistry showed that the inclusion bodies were positive for anti-fibrinogen. Under the electron microscope, they corresponded to the dilated cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, which were occupied by compactly packed tubular structures and arranged into a fingerprint-like pattern with curved bundles. Gene sequencing revealed that the 2 cases of FGG mutation were located in exon 8 c.1106A>G (p.His369Arg) and c.905T>C (p.Leu302Pro), and 1 case was located in exon 9 c.1201C>T (p.Arg401Trp). No pathogenic variant was detected in the other case. Conclusions: FSD is a rare genetic metabolic disease and clinically manifests as abnormal liver function with hypofibrinogenemia. In the background of liver steatosis, fibrosis and inflammation, there are eosinophilic inclusions with pale halo in the hepatocytic cytoplasm, which can be identified by anti-fibrinogen immunohistochemical staining. The fingerprint-like structures under electron microscope are helpful for the diagnosis, while FGG sequencing detects the pathogenic mutation of exon 8 or 9 that can clearly explain the phenotype. However, the diagnosis of FSD cannot be completely ruled out if the relevant mutations are not detected.

[The 493th case: recurrent edema of bilateral lower extremeties]

A 43-year-old male patient with onset of edema caused by nephrotic proteinuria and low titer of anti-M type phospholipase-A₂-receptor (PLA₂R) antibody was diagnosed as idiopathic membranous nephropathy by renal biopsy. Administrated with prednisone 40 mg once a day and cyclosporine 100 mg twice a day as front-line regimen, the patient relapsed after transient partial remission. When treatment was combined with cyclophosphamide 100 mg once a day, the 24-hour total urine protein and titer of anti-PLA₂R antibody were even elevated. Therefore, the patient received rituximab 1 g intravenously in April 2019, October 2019 and October 2020 respectively. CD19 positive B lymphocytes in peripheral blood were eliminated from 71/μl to zero. Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids were withdrawn successively. On the last follow-up in November 2020, the anti-PLA₂R antibody was negative, and the 24-hour total urine protein and serum albumin was 4.4 g and 34 g/L, respectively. This case suggested the potential efficacy of rituximab for refractory membranous nephropathy. Further studies should explore whether the titer of anti-PLA₂R antibody indicates the dose of rituximab.

[Preventing and treating anterior commissure adhesion with mucosal flap: a study in canines and clinical cases]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of mucosal flap combined with silicone keel for preventing and treating anterior commissure adhesion in canines and clinical cases. Methods: A prospective experiment was performed from November 2019 to June 2021. Twenty five canines were randomly divided into 5 groups(A, B, C, D, E). Group A, B, C, D received anterior commissure injury by CO2 laser, then separately treated with free mucosal flap-keel complex,intralaryngeal mucosal flap-keel complex, silicone keels and without treatment, group E didn't injure the vocal cord after intubation. The keel was removed after 2 weeks, the larynx was harvested after 4 weeks. The effectiveness of anterior commissure adhesion prevention was evaluated by manifestation under laryngoscope, standard vocal cord length and standard glottic area. A retrospective analysis was performed on sixteen patients with anterior commissure lesion, who underwent mucosal flap-keel technique in Huashan Hospital of Fudan University from January 2019 to January 2021 (10 cases with free mucosal flap-keel complex and 6 cases with intralaryngeal mucosal flap-keel complex). All the patients underwent evaluation of laryngeal function included manifestation under laryngoscope each month and voice analysis before and 3 month after surgery. SPSS 20.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: No surgery accident or complication happened in canines and patients. The standard vocal cord length and standard glottic area after 4 weeks in group B were significantly higher than those in group A, C, D (Hstandard vocal cord length=31.688, Hstandard glottic area=16.444, P<0.05). The standard vocal cord length and standard glottic area after 4 weeks in group A were also significantly higher than those in group C, D(Hstandard vocal cord length=20.936, Hstandard glottic area=11.786, P<0.05). The standard vocal cord length and standard glottic area after 4 weeks in group A, B, E were not significantly different to that before surgery(tA left standard vocal cord length=2.636, tA right standard vocal cord length=2.582, tB left standard vocal cord length=2.707, tB right standard vocal cord length=2.673, tE left standard vocal cord length=0.370, tE right standard vocal cord length=0.821, tA standard glottic area=2.731, tB standard glottic area=2.753, tE standard glottic area=-0.529, P>0.05). The standard vocal cord length and standard glottic area after 4 weeks in group C, D were significantly lower than those before surgery(tC left standard vocal cord length=16.137, tC right standard vocal cord length=13.984, tD left standard vocal cord length=11.903, tD right standard vocal cord length=14.587, tC standard glottic area=10.280, tD standard glottic area=22.974, P<0.05). During 6-18 months of follow-up in clinical patients, no one developed a glottic web. Three months after surgery, Jitter, Shimmer, noise to harmonic ratio(NHR), the maximum phonation time(MPT)in all patients were significantly different from preoperative(tintralaryngeal mucosal flap jitter=24.885, tintralaryngeal mucosal flap shimmer=22.643, tintralaryngeal mucosal flap NHR=6.202, tintralaryngeal mucosal flap MPT=-9.661, tfree mucosal flap jitter=25.459, tfree mucosal flap shimmer=18.683, tfree mucosal flap NHR=5.705, tfree mucosal flap MPT=-20.840, P<0.05). Conclusion: Mucosal flap combined with silicone keel is an effective technique for preventing and treating anterior commissure adhesion. The effect of pedicled intralaryngea lmucosal flap is better.

Polarization conversion in the caviton driven by linearly polarized lasers

In one-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations of a plasma irradiated by linearly polarized lasers from both sides of boundaries, it is found that there is an appreciable growth of the electromagnetic field in cavitons in the transverse direction perpendicular to the direction of polarization, which indicates the polarization conversion of the electromagnetic field in cavitons. This paper demonstrates the mechanism of this phenomenon based on parametric resonance induced by ponderomotive force with twice the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation in the caviton. We develop a theoretical model and verify it with simulation results. This phenomenon contributes to the heating and acceleration of particles and traps more EM energy in cavitons.

[Baveno VII - Renewing consensus in portal hypertension: personalized care for portal hypertension]

The Baveno VII workshop held in October 2021 was featured by the subject of personalized care in portal hypertension. The workshop focused on the following 9 topics including: the relevance and indications for measuring the hepatic venous pressure gradient as a gold standard; the use of non-invasive tools for the diagnosis of compensated advanced chronic liver disease and clinically significant portal hypertension; the impact of etiological and of non-etiological therapies in the course of cirrhosis; the prevention of the first episode of decompensation; the management of the acute bleeding episode; the prevention of further decompensation; as well as the diagnosis and management of splanchnic vein thrombosis and other vascular disorders of the liver. This essay provides a compilation and summary of recommendations regarding the abovementioned topics, and presents the most recent research proceedings and the corresponding consensus to our readers.

[Precise resection and defect repair of external nose malignant tumor]

Objective: To explore the methods for the accurate resection of malignant tumors of the external nose, and the accurate evaluation and repair of tissue defects. Methods: We collected 48 cases with nasal malignant tumors treated in 980 Hospital, Joint Support Force of the People's Liberation Army from January 2010 to June 2020, including 28 males and 20 females, aged 36-86 years. The pathological types of tumors included basal cell carcinomas (n=29), squamous cell carcinomas (n=11), trichilemmal carcinomas(n=6), denoid cystic carcinoma (n=1) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (n=1). Tumor resection was mainly based on the traditional extended resection determined by the safety margin, and Mohs surgery was used to minimize the scope of resection, for the margin that significantly affected the repairing results, such as the lesion adjacent to the nasal alar margin, nasal columella or deep easy-penetrating margin. All cases obtained tumor resection and primary/secondary defect reconstruction. Results: According to the pathological type and tumor size, the safe resection margin was mainly 4-10 mm, and Mohs surgery was used in 24 cases. Limited-size defects in 38 cases were repaired with double-leaf flaps, kite flaps, nasal dorsum brow flaps, nasolabial flaps or free tissues. Among 10 cases with compound defects, 8 cases were repaired with frontal flaps, including 4 cases with single frontal flaps, 2 cases with additional titanium mesh stent reconstruction and 2 cases with over and out frontal flaps. During follow-up of 1 to 10 years, all the flaps survived without flap necrosis, and the postoperative nasal contour and ventilation were satisfactory. One patient had tumor recurrence 18 months after operation, 2 patients died of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and other patients survived without tumors. Conclusions: Mohs surgery can basically meet the requirements for precise resection of external nasal malignant tumors. Individualized application of adjacent tissue flaps and various frontal flaps is a reasonable choice to achieve the satisfactory outcome of external nasal repair and to take into account the complexity of operation.

[Diagnosis and treatment status of perioperative anemia in patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms: a multi-center study in Hubei Province]

Objective: To investigate the incidence and treatment of perioperative anemia in patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms in Hubei Province. Methods: The clinicopathological data of 7 474 patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms in 62 hospitals in 15 cities (state) of Hubei Province in 2019 were collected in the form of network database. There were 4 749 males and 2 725 females. The median age of the patients was 62 years (range: 17 to 96 years). The hemoglobin value of the first time in hospital and the first day after operation was used as the criterion of preoperative anemia and postoperative anemia. Anemia was defined as male hemoglobin <120 g/L and female hemoglobin <110.0 g/L, mild anemia as 90 to normal, moderate anemia as 60 to <90 g/L, severe anemia as <60 g/L. The t test and χ² test were used for inter-group comparison. Results: The overall incidence of preoperative anemia was 38.60%(2 885/7 474), and the incidences of mild anemia, moderate anemia and severe anemia were 25.09%(1 875/7 474), 11.37%(850/7 474) and 2.14%(160/7 474), respectively. The overall incidence of postoperative anemia was 61.40%(4 589/7 474). The incidence of mild anemia, moderate anemia and severe anemia were 48.73%(3 642/7 474), 12.20%(912/7 474) and 0.47%(35/7 474), respectively. The proportion of preoperative anemia patients receiving treatment was 26.86% (775/2 885), and the proportion of postoperative anemia patients receiving treatment was 14.93% (685/4 589). The proportions of preoperative anemia patients in grade ⅢA, grade ⅢB, and grade ⅡA hospitals receiving treatment were 26.12% (649/2 485), 32.32% (85/263), and 29.93% (41/137), and the proportions of postoperative anemia patients receiving treatment were 14.61% (592/4 052), 22.05% (73/331), and 9.71% (20/206). The proportion of intraoperative blood transfusion (16.74% (483/2 885) vs. 3.05% (140/4 589), χ²=434.555, P<0.01) and the incidence of postoperative complications (17.78% (513/2 885) vs. 14.08% (646/4 589), χ²=18.553, P<0.01) in the preoperative anemia group were higher than those in the non-anemia group, and the postoperative hospital stay in the preoperative anemia group was longer than that in the non-anemia group ((14.1±7.3) days vs. (13.3±6.2) days, t=5.202, P<0.01). Conclusions: The incidence of perioperative anemia in patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms is high. Preoperative anemia can increase the demand for intraoperative blood transfusion and affect the short-term prognosis of patients. At present, the concept of standardized treatment of perioperative anemia among gastrointestinal surgeons in Hubei Province needs to be improved.

Long-term effect of hospital volume on the postoperative prognosis of 158,618 patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in China

Background

The impact of hospital volume on the long-term survival of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been well assessed in China, especially for stage I-III stage ESCC. We performed a large sample size study to assess the relationships between hospital volume and the effectiveness of ESCC treatment and the hospital volume value at the lowest risk of all-cause mortality after esophagectomy in China.

Aim

To investigate the prognostic value of hospital volume for assessing postoperative long-term survival of ESCC patients in China.

Methods

The date of 158,618 patients with ESCC were collected from a database (1973-2020) established by the State Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, the database includes 500,000 patients with detailed clinical information of pathological diagnosis and staging, treatment approaches and survival follow-up for esophageal and gastric cardia cancers. Intergroup comparisons of patient and treatment characteristics were conducted with the X² test and analysis of variance. The Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test was used to draw the survival curves for the variables tested. A Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the independent prognostic factors for overall survival. The relationship between hospital volume and all-cause mortality was assessed using restricted cubic splines from Cox proportional hazards models. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality.

Results

In both 1973-1996 and 1997-2020, patients with stage I-III stage ESCC who underwent surgery in high volume hospitals had better survival than those who underwent surgery in low volume hospitals (both P<0.05). And high volume hospital was an independent factor for better prognosis in ESCC patients. The relationship between hospital volume and the risk of all-cause mortality was half-U-shaped, but overall, hospital volume was a protective factor for esophageal cancer patients after surgery (HR<1). The concentration of hospital volume associated with the lowest risk of all-cause mortality was 1027 cases/year in the overall enrolled patients.

Conclusion

Hospital volume can be used as an indicator to predict the postoperative survival of ESCC patients. Our results suggest that the centralized management of esophageal cancer surgery is meaningful to improve the survival of ESCC patients in China, but the hospital volume should preferably not be higher than 1027 cases/year.

Core tip

Hospital volume is considered to be a prognostic factor for many complex diseases. However, the impact of hospital volume on long-term survival after esophagectomy has not been well evaluated in China. Based on a large sample size of 158,618 ESCC patients in China spanning 47 years (1973-2020), We found that hospital volume can be used as a predictor of postoperative survival in patients with ESCC, and identified hospital volume thresholds with the lowest risk of death from all causes. This may provide an important basis for patients to choose hospitals and have a significant impact on the centralized management of hospital surgery.

[The expression of clock gene CLOCK and its clinical significance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma]

Objective: To explore the relationship between expression levels of CLOCK mRNA and protein and the clinical characteristics of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: The frozen tissue specimens from 33 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guizhou Medical University from 2018 to 2019 were collected. Seventeen cases of tissue specimens from patients with nasopharyngeal chronic inflammation in the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University in 2019 were collected. From 2008 to 2014, 68 cases of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedding (FFPE) nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissue and 37 cases of FFPE nasopharyngeal chronic inflammation tissue were collected from the Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guizhou Medical University. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot (WB) were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression levels of CLOCK. The nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells including CNE1, CNE2, 5-8F and the normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cell NP69 were cultured. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression level of CLOCK mRNA in each cell line at the time points of ZT2, ZT6, ZT10, ZT14, ZT18 and ZT22. The cosine method was used to fit the rhythm of CLOCK gene in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The protein expression of CLOCK protein was detected by using immunohistochemical method in 68 cases of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and 37 cases of nasopharyngeal chronic inflammation tissue. Survival was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method and Log rank test, and the influencing factors was analyzed by Cox regression model. Results: The expression levels of CLOCK mRNA in CNE1, CNE2 and 5-8F cells (0.63±0.07, 0.91±0.02 and 0.33±0.04, respectively) were lower than that in NP69 cell (1.00±0.00, P<0.05). The expression levels of CLOCK protein in CNE1, CNE2 and 5-8F cells (0.79±0.06, 0.57±0.05 and 0.74±0.10, respectively) were lower than that of NP69 cells (1.00±0.00, P<0.05). The expressions of CLOCK mRNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells including CEN1, CNE2, 5-8F and normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cell NP69 were different at different time points, with temporal fluctuations. The fluctuation periods of CLOCK mRNA in CNE1, CNE2, 5-8F, and NP69 cells were 16, 14, 22 and 24 hours, respectively. The peak and trough times were ZT10: 40 and ZT18: 40, ZT10 and ZT3, ZT14: 30 and ZT3: 30, ZT12: 39 and ZT0: 39, respectively. CLOCK mRNA and protein expression levels in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues (0.37±0.20 and 0.20±0.26, respectively) were lower than those in nasopharyngeal chronic inflammation tissues (1.00±0.00 and 0.51±0.41, respectively, P<0.05). The 1, 3, and 5-year survival rates of patients in the CLOCK protein high expression group (CLOCK protein expression level ≥ 0.178) were 96.2%, 92.1%, and 80.1%, respectively, which were higher than those in the low expression group (CLOCK protein expression level <0.178, 92.9% , 78.6% and 57.1%, respectively, P=0.009). The 1, 3, and 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates of patients in the CLOCK protein high expression group were 96.2%, 87.8%, and 87.7%, respectively, which were higher than those in the low expression group (92.7%, 82.2%, and 70.8%, respectively, P=0.105). Compared with the low-expression group (100.0%, 96.9%, and 90.0%, respectively), the 1, 3, and 5-year recurrence-free survival rates of patients in the CLOCK protein high expression group (100.0%, 95.7%, and 95.7%, respectively) were not statistically significant (P=0.514). Compared with the low-expression group (92.7%, 82.2%, and 79.3%), the 1, 3, and 5-year survival rates without metastasis in the CLOCK protein high expression group (96.2%, 92.0%, and 92.0%, respectively) were not statistically significant (P=0.136). CLOCK protein expression and T stage were independent prognostic factors of overall survival (P<0.05). Conclusions: The expression of CLCOK is downregulated in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell and nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissues. Clock gene CLOCK is rhythmically expressed in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells and normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. Compared with normal nasopharyngeal epithelial cells, the fluctuation period of CLOCK in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells is shortened. The overall survival of patients in the CLOCK protein high expression group is better than that of low expression group. The expression of CLOCK protein is an independent influencing factor for overall survival. CLOCK gene may be a potential tumor suppressor gene in the nasopharyngeal carcinoma.