Phthalocyanine blue leaching and exposure effects on Microcystis aeruginosa (cyanobacteria) of photoaged microplastics

Light-stabilizing additives may contribute to the overall pollution load of microplastics (MPs) and potentially enter the food chain, severely threatening aquatic life and human health. This study investigated the variation between polystyrene (PS) MPs and phthalocyanine blue (CuPC)-containing MPs before and after photoaging, as well as their effects on Microcystis aeruginosa. The presence of PS-MPs increased cell mortality, antioxidant enzyme activity, and the variation in extracellular components, while the presence of CuPC exacerbated these variations. CuPC-containing MPs caused different increasing trends in superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde activities due to electron transfer across the membrane. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the MPs and CuPC affected various cellular processes, with the greatest impact being on cell membranes. Compared with MPs, CuPC negatively affected ribosome and polysaccharide formation. These findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the cellular response to MPs and their associated light-stabilizer pollution and imply the necessity for mitigating the pollution of both MPs and light-stabilizers.

Deep convolutional neural networks for aged microplastics identification by Fourier transform infrared spectra classification

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a powerful technique for detecting and identifying Microplastics (MPs) in the environment. However, the aging of MPs presents a challenge in accurately identification and classification. To address this challenge, a classification model based on deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) was developed using infrared spectra results. Particularly, original infrared (IR) spectra were used as the sample dataset, therefore, relevant spectral details were preserved and additional noise or distortions were not introduced. The Adam (Adaptive moment estimation) algorithm was employed to accelerate gradient descent and weight update, the Dropout function was implemented to prevent overfitting and enhance the generalization performance of the network. An activation function ReLu (Rectified Linear Unit) was also utilized to simplify the co-adaptation relationship among neurons and prevent gradient disappearance. The performance of the CNN model in MPs classification was evaluated based on accuracy and robustness, and compared with other machine learning techniques. CNN model demonstrated superior capabilities in feature extraction and recognition, and greatly simplified the pre-processing procedure. The identification results of aged commercial microplastic samples showed accuracies of 40 % for Artificial Neural Network, 60 % for Random Forest, 80 % for Deep Neural Network, and 100 % for CNN, respectively. The CNN architecture developed in this work also demonstrates versatility by being suitable for both limited data cases and potential expansion to include more discrete data in the future.

Iron-doped swine bone char as hydrogen peroxide activator for efficient removal of acetaminophen in water

Bone char is a functional material obtained by calcining animal bones and is widely used for environmental remediation. In this work, iron was inserted into porcine bone-derived bone char via ion exchange to synthesize iron-doped bone char (Fe-BC) for efficient catalysis of hydrogen peroxide. This is the first time that Fe-BC has been used as a catalyst for the activation of H2O2. The effectiveness of the Fe-BC catalyst was influenced by the annealing temperature and the amount of iron doping. The results showed that the activation of H2O2 by the Fe-BC catalyst with the best catalytic performance could achieve 97.6% of APAP degradation within 30 min. Insights from electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), free radical scavenging experiments and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) proposed a reaction mechanism based on free radicals dominated degradation pathways (OH and O2-). Iron served as the primary active site in Fe-BC, with defect sites and oxygen-containing groups in the catalyst also contributing to the removal of pollutants. The Fe-BC/H2O2 system demonstrated resilience to interference from common anions (Cl-, NO3-, SO42- and HCO3-) in water, but was less effective against humic acid (HA). Based on the detection of intermediates produced during APAP degradation, possible degradation pathways of APAP were proposed and the toxicity of intermediates was evaluated. This work provides fresh insights into the use of heterogeneous Fenton catalysts for the removal of organic pollutants from water.

[Associations of blood pressure change with change in foods' intake among adults with mild to moderate hypertension]

Objective: To explore the association between the intake and changes in various types of food and the changes in blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Methods: Mild to moderate hypertension participants with complete baseline and outcome data were included from DECIDE-Diet study, a multicenter, randomized controlled trial. Dietary records and blood pressure measurements at both 7-day run-in (baseline) and 28-day intervention phases were collected for enrolled participants. Blood pressure change was defined as the difference between blood pressure at the end of trial and the baseline blood pressure. Baseline intake of food was the average daily intake during the run-in period, and the intake increment was defined as the difference between the average intake during the trial period and the average intake during the run-in period. After adjusting for age, sex, study center, intervention groups, baseline body mass index (kg/m2), antihypertension medication use, and baseline total calorie intake, a linear regression model was used to analyze the associations of the before-after-intervention change in blood pressure with baseline intake and intake increment of foods. Results: A total of 258 patients with mild to moderate hypertension were included, including 133 males, aged (56.5±9.9) years. (1) After adjusting for confounding factors, there was no significant association between baseline intake of food and baseline blood pressure (all P>0.05). The blood pressure change was negatively associated with baseline intakes of tubers, vegetables, and vegetable oils but positively with baseline intake of meats; and was negatively associated with intake increment of whole grains and fish (all P<0.05). (2) The multiple linear regression analysis showed that baseline intake of vegetables (β=-0.021, P=0.004), vegetable oils (β=-0.260, P=0.002), and increment in intake of fish (β=-0.128, P=0.026) were all significantly associated with changes in systolic blood pressure; baseline intake of vegetables (β=-0.017, P=0.002), vegetable oils (β=-0.182, P=0.001), dairy products (β=0.021, P=0.022), and increment in intake of fish (β=-0.092, P=0.010) were all significantly associated with changes in diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: Increasing the intake of whole grains, vegetables, vegetable oils, and fish and decreasing the intake of meat may be beneficial for blood pressure control in patients with mild to moderate hypertension.

Enhanced Assembling of N-and-K-Riched Macroalgae as Carbon Adsorbent for CO2 Capture with Ni(NO3)2/KOH as Co-Catalysts

Porous-activated carbons have drawn great attention due to their important role in CO2 capture. Ni(NO3)2/KOH, as co-catalysts under different temperatures, were studied to obtain porous graphitized carbon from Sargassum horneri feedstock. The results indicated that the properties of the porous graphitized carbon generated at 850 °C were greatly enhanced, showing a large specific surface area of 1486.38 cm3·g-1 with narrowly distributed micropores (~0.67 nm) and abundant functional groups, which endowed high CO2 uptake; moreover, the high CO2 uptake was mainly attributed to the synergistic effect of Ni(NO3)2 and KOH, both in chemical modification and pore formation. The fitted values of the four kinetic models showed that the double exponential model provided the best description of carbon adsorption, indicating both physical and chemical adsorption. It is worth noting that carbon could be reused four times in the adsorption/desorption procedure in this research with good stability. This work focuses on the high-value-added comprehensive utilization of macroalgae, which not only is important for high-performance adsorbent preparation but also has positive benefits for the development and utilization of macroalgae resources.

Tungsten disulfide (WS2) is a highly active co-catalyst in Fe(III)/H2O2 Fenton-like reactions for efficient acetaminophen degradation

The most important factor that restricts the decomposition of H₂O₂ in the Fe³⁺/H₂O₂ reaction is the slow cycling efficiency of reducing Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺. In this study, the addition of tungsten disulfide (WS₂) as a co-catalyst achieved a rapid cycling of the reaction rate-limiting step and a significant enhancement of H₂O₂ decomposition, which resulted in the effective degradation of acetaminophen (APAP). Results show that 99.6% of APAP (5 mg L^-1) could be degraded by H₂O₂/Fe³⁺/WS₂ system within 2.5 min. The conversion of Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺ occurred mainly on the surface of WS₂ due to the redox reaction of the exposed W⁴⁺ active sites with Fe³⁺ after the unsaturated S atoms were bound to protons. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and radical quenching experiments evaluated the contribution of hydroxyl radical (•OH) and superoxide radical (O₂^•-) in the degradation of pollutants. WS₂ showed good recoverability after four cycles of the reaction. This study provides a new perspective to improve the efficiency of Fe³⁺/H₂O₂ and provides a reference for the involvement of transition metal sulfides in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs).

Natural iron minerals in an electrocatalytic oxidation system and in situ pollutant removal in groundwater: Applications, mechanisms, and challenges

Natural iron-bearing minerals are widely distributed in the environment and show prominent catalytic performance in pollutant removal. This work provides an overview of groundwater restoration technologies utilizing heterogeneous electro-Fenton (HEF) techniques with the aid of different iron forms as catalysts. In particular, applications of natural iron-bearing minerals in groundwater in the HEF system have been thoroughly summarized from either the view of organic pollutant removal or degradation. Based on the analysis of the catalytic mechanism in the HEF process by pyrite (FeS₂), goethite (α-FeOOH), and magnetite (Fe₃O₄) and the geochemistry analysis of these natural iron-bearing minerals in groundwater, the feasibility and challenges of HEF for organic degradation by using typical iron minerals in groundwater have been discussed, and natural factors affecting the HEF process have been analyzed so that appropriate in situ remedial measures can be applied to contaminated groundwater.

Hydroxyl radicals in natural waters: Light/dark mechanisms, changes and scavenging effects

Hydroxyl radicals (•OH) are the most active, aggressive and oxidative reactive oxygen species. In the natural aquatic environment, •OH plays an important role in the biogeochemistry cycle, biotransformation, and pollution removal. This paper reviewed the distribution and formation mechanism of •OH in aquatic environments, including natural waters, colloidal substances, sediments, and organisms. Furthermore, factors affecting the formation and consumption of •OH were thoroughly discussed, and the mechanisms of •OH generation and scavenging were summarized. In particular, the effects of climate change and artificial work on •OH in the largest natural aquatic environment, i.e., marine environment was analyzed with the help of bibliometrics. Moreover, Fenton reactions make the •OH variation more complicated and should not be neglected, especially in those areas with suspended particles and sediments. Regarding the •OH variation in the natural aquatic environment, more attention should be given to global change and human activities.

Evaluation of prognostic risk models for postoperative pulmonary complications in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a systematic review and international external validation cohort study

BACKGROUND

Stratifying risk of postoperative pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery allows clinicians to modify risk through targeted interventions and enhanced monitoring. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate prognostic models against a new consensus definition of postoperative pulmonary complications.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. The systematic review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase on March 1, 2020, for articles published in English that reported on risk prediction models for postoperative pulmonary complications following abdominal surgery. External validation of existing models was done within a prospective international cohort study of adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Data were collected between Jan 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Discriminative ability and prognostic accuracy summary statistics were compared between models for the 30-day postoperative pulmonary complication rate as defined by the Standardised Endpoints in Perioperative Medicine Core Outcome Measures in Perioperative and Anaesthetic Care (StEP-COMPAC). Model performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC).

FINDINGS

In total, we identified 2903 records from our literature search; of which, 2514 (86·6%) unique records were screened, 121 (4·8%) of 2514 full texts were assessed for eligibility, and 29 unique prognostic models were identified. Nine (31·0%) of 29 models had score development reported only, 19 (65·5%) had undergone internal validation, and only four (13·8%) had been externally validated. Data to validate six eligible models were collected in the international external validation cohort study. Data from 11 591 patients were available, with an overall postoperative pulmonary complication rate of 7·8% (n=903). None of the six models showed good discrimination (defined as AUROCC ≥0·70) for identifying postoperative pulmonary complications, with the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia score showing the best discrimination (AUROCC 0·700 [95% CI 0·683-0·717]).

INTERPRETATION

In the pre-COVID-19 pandemic data, variability in the risk of pulmonary complications (StEP-COMPAC definition) following major abdominal surgery was poorly described by existing prognostication tools. To improve surgical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and beyond, novel risk stratification tools are required.

FUNDING

British Journal of Surgery Society.

Binding of methylmercury to humic acids (HA): Influence of solar radiation and sulfide addition reaction of HA

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a neurotoxin that bioaccumulates in organisms and it forms strong complexes with reduced sulfur-containing ligands in dissolved organic matter (DOM). In the present study, the influences of solar radiation and sulfide addition reaction of humic acids (HA) on MeHg binding to HA were investigated using synchronous fluorescence and FT-IR two-dimensional correlation spectroscopic (2DCOS) analysis. Results showed that the complexation of fluorescent fractions of HA and sulfur-reacted HA (S-HA) with MeHg was not significantly affected by photoreaction treatments and the affinity of fluorescent fractions followed the order of protein-like fractions > humic-like fractions > fulvic-like fractions for both HA and S-HA. FT-IR 2DCOS analysis showed that the affinity of various binding sites in DOM for MeHg changed under different photoreaction treatments. Under dark treatment, small molecular compounds with low humification degree such as aromatic amino acids may be the site with the strongest binding ability to MeHg in HA, whereas aliphatic amino acids and sulfur-containing groups from sulfide addition reactions play a role in complexing of S-HA and MeHg. Under BS treatment (irradiation of DOM before MeHg binding), aliphatic compounds in HA preferentially bind to MeHg and aliphatic amino acids are the components with the strongest complexing ability; but for S-HA binding to MeHg, unsaturated functional groups and aromatic groups are more sensitive (alkenes > alkanes, phenols > alcohols). Under AS treatment (irradiation of DOM after MeHg binding), unsaturated bonds and aromatic compounds in HA preferentially bind to MeHg and aromatic amino acids show the strongest complexing ability; but for S-HA binding to MeHg, aliphatic groups show the strongest complexing ability (alkanes, alkenes > aromatics). These findings help us to better understand the complexation mechanisms between MeHg and DOM.

Accumulation of microplastics in tadpoles from different functional zones in Hangzhou Great Bay Area, China: Relation to growth stage and feeding habits

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in freshwater ecosystems, including inland small waterbodies (e.g., ponds and ditches), which are unique habitats for tadpoles. The uptake of MPs by tadpoles is influenced by their habitat, life stage, and feeding strategy. In this study, we investigated MP levels in small waterbodies in three different functional zones from the Hangzhou Great Bay Area, China, and resident tadpoles at different stages of metamorphosis with different feeding habits. Our results indicated that MPs in all three sampling areas were predominantly fibers; and the highest abundances of MPs were observed in water (4.70 ± 2.30 items/L) and sediment (728 ± 324 items/kg) from a textile industrial area, likely the result of nearby human activities. There was no significant difference in MP number in tadpoles between areas; however, omnivorous tadpoles with labial teeth and horny beaks ingested more MPs than did filter feeders. Based on their developmental characteristics, the collected tadpoles were categorized as: pre-metamorphosis, pro-metamorphosis, and metamorphic climax. The MP levels exhibited an upward trend, and MP size gradually increased as tadpole development progressed. This suggests that MPs may accumulate in tadpoles as they grow and potentially affect their metamorphosis from larvae to frogs.

[Association between dietary vitamin A intake and gestational diabetes mellitus in the first trimester]

Objective: To investigate the relationship between dietary vitamin A intake and its sources in the first trimester and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: A prospective study was conducted to select women at 6-14 weeks of gestation in an obstetric clinic of a maternal and child health care medical institution in Chengdu in 2017. The types and quantities of food during the first trimester were collected by 3-day 24-hour dietary recalls. Dietary vitamin A intake was calculated based on the Chinese Food Composition Table (2018), and it was divided into animal and plant vitamin A intakes according to its food sources. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed at 24-28 weeks of gestation to diagnose GDM according to the Chinese guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (2014). According to the estimated average requirement (EAR) and recommended nutrient intake (RNI), dietary vitamin A intake was divided into low-level group (<EAR), medium-level group (EAR-RNI) and high-level group (>RNI). Animal and plant vitamin A intakes were divided into four groups (Q1-Q4) according to the quartile method, respectively. The association between dietary vitamin A intake, its different sources of vitamin A intake and GDM in the first trimester was analyzed by log-binomial regression models. Results: A total of 1 298 valid samples were finally included. The average dietary vitamin A intake, animal and plant vitamin A intakes in the first trimester were 341.1 (227.8-501.0) μgRAE/d, 139.3 (69.6-195.3) μgRAE/d and 184.2 (99.4-301.1) μgRAE/d, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors, log-binomial regression analysis showed that the risk of GDM in high-level group of dietary vitamin A intake was lower than that in low-level group [RR (95%CI):0.53 (0.36-0.80)]. Pregnant women in the highest quartile of animal vitamin A intake had a lower risk of GDM than those in the lowest quartile [RR (95%CI):0.66 (0.47-0.95)]. No relationship between plant vitamin A intake and GDM was found. Conclusion: Dietary vitamin A intake in the first trimester is associated with the occurrence of GDM, and higher intake than RNI may reduce the risk of GDM. Higher vitamin A intake from animal-derived food is associated with decreased risk of GDM.

The effect of strength-endurance training on serum and urine metabolic profiles of female adolescent volleyball athletes

Aim

Limited investigations on metabolic responses to exercise training in female adolescent volleyball athletes exist. The aim of this study was to obtain serum and urine metabolite markers in female adolescent volleyball athletes within 2-week strength-endurance training using a metabolomics approach coupled with biochemical analysis, which would be potential biomarkers for evaluating the physiological state of athletes.

Methods

Twelve female adolescent volleyball athletes were recruited for 2-week strength-endurance training. Differential serum and urine metabolic profiles between the pre- and post-training group were obtained on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and data subsequently underwent orthogonal partial least-squares analysis (OPLS).

Results

Strength-endurance training exerted a significant influence on the athletes' serum and urine metabolic profiles. The changed metabolites were primarily involved in energy metabolism, lipid metabolism and amino acids metabolism. Results support the hypothesis that female athletes displayed an increased propensity to oxidize lipids as the major energy source. Exposure to strength-endurance training also led to a significant increase in cortisol, but a decrease in testosterone, indicating disordered hormone adjustment. Exercise-induced oxidative stress occurred, as was evidenced by the decrease in reduced glutathione, and increases in blood malondialdehyde and oxidized glutathione. Since the muscle damage markers creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase did not show significant changes, the training might not cause cell membrane damage and the athletes did not cross the adaptive injury level.

Conclusion

By measurement of endogenous metabolites, the metabolomics study has the potential to reveal the global physiological changes in response to exercise training.

Senolytic agent Quercetin ameliorates intervertebral disc degeneration via the Nrf2/NF-κB axis

OBJECTIVE

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) represents major cause of low back pain. Quercetin (QUE) is one of the approved senolytic agents. In this study, we evaluated the protective effects of QUE on IDD development and its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Effects of senolytic agent QUE on the viability of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were measured by CCK-8 assays and EdU staining. The senescence associated secreted phenotype (SASP) factors expressions were measured by qPCR, western blot, and ELISA; and NF-κB pathway was detected by immunofluorescence and western blot. Molecular docking was applied to predict the interacting protein of QUE; while Nrf2 was knocked down by siRNAs to confirm its role in QUE regulated senescence phenotype. X-ray, MRI, Hematoxylin-Eosin and Safranin O-Fast green staining were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of QUE on IDD in the puncture-induced rat model.

RESULTS

In in vitro experiments, QUE inhibited SASP factors expression and senescence phenotype in IL-1β-treated NPCs. Mechanistically, QUE suppressed IL-1β induced activation of the NF-κB pathway cascades; it was also demonstrated in molecular docking and knock down studies that QUE might bind to Keap1-Nrf2 complex to suppress NF-κB pathway. In vivo, QUE ameliorated the IDD process in the puncture-induced rat model.

CONCLUSIONS

Together the present work suggests that QUE inhibits SASP factors expression and senescence phenotype in NPCs and ameliorates the progression of IDD via the Nrf2/NF-κB axis, which supports senolytic agent QUE as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of IDD.

Transport and fate of microplastics from riverine sediment dredge piles: Implications for disposal

Microplastics (MPs) are an environmental problem of growing concern. Aquatic sediments are considered as a final sink for MPs, but dredging can remobilize sedimentary MPs into both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Although dredging is globally used for waterway deepening and ecological restoration, the environmental impacts of dredging on MP pollutants has not been previously assessed. In this study, Nile Red staining combined with micro-FTIR methods showed sediments containing high MP concentrations (6060-37610 n/kg·DW) from urban/suburban segments of a plain river network in Southeast China. The dredged sediments were stored in piles on farmlands, whereby MPs were subsequently dispersed to surrounding soils and surface waters while awaiting a permanent disposal option. MP concentrations in the soils surrounding the pile were higher in the dry season (wind dispersion), while MP concentrations in waters downstream of the piles were higher in the wet season (rainfall/runoff erosion). Whether dredge sediments are finally used to fertilize farmland, as fill material for coastal land reclamation or dumped into the ocean, MPs have the potential for remobilization into the environment causing concerns with aquatic food webs, agricultural production and human health. Therefore, disposal of dredge sediments containing MPs requires careful assessment to minimize potential environmental impacts.

Photocatalytic ozonation of offshore produced water by TiO2 nanotube arrays coupled with UV-LED irradiation

Offshore produced water (OPW) containing hazardous substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) needs to be treated prior to discharge. This study integrated a photocatalytic ozonation system with TiO₂ nanotube arrays (TNA) and UV-light-emitted diode (UV-LED) irradiation and applied to treat OPW. Experimental and modeling efforts were made to evaluate the degradation efficiencies of PAHs, examine the behaviors of the OPW composition (e.g., phenols, iodide, and bromide), and investigate the oxidation intermediates and the associated toxicity and biodegradability. The results indicated that ozone significantly enhanced the oxidation rates and removed the PAHs within 30 min, while the TNA showed strong photocatalytic capability. In the early stage, iodide was a strong ozone competitor, accelerating phenol degradation but inhibiting PAH oxidation, whereas UV-LED fortified the effect. The degradation of aromatics was altered by iodide and bromide at different stages. The contributions of four toxicants to the acute toxicity of OPW were quantified and ranked (PAHs > bromoform > phenols > dibromopentane). The EC₅₀ value increased from 3 % to 57 %, and the biodegradability was doubled with less footprint in 28-day biodegradation tests. Overall, it is recommended to sequentially oxidize the matrix of OPW by ozonation and PAHs by the UV-LED/TNA/ozone system.

Effect of dehydration pathway on the surface properties of molecular crystals

Atomic force microscopy was used to determine roughness, elastic modulus and work function after thermally-induced and solvent-induced dehydration. These properties correlated with electric charging to provide insight into behaviour of bulk powders.

[Association between dietary glycemic load during first trimester and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective study]

Objective: To explore the effects of dietary glycemic load (GL) during first trimester on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: A prospective study was conducted among healthy women with singleton pregnancy at 8-14 weeks of gestation in a maternity out-patient clinic of maternal-and-child health care institution in Chengdu, Sichuan province. Information on dietary intake during the first trimester was collected through a 3-day 24-hour dietary recall. Glycemic index (GI) values were obtained from China Food Composition Tables (Standard Edition) and International Tables of Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Values (2008). Dietary GL and GLs of staple foods were calculated based on GI values and the amount of carbohydrate consumed per day. Diagnostic criteria of GDM was followed the Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Pregnancy Diabetes in China (2014), and used on participants who underwent an oral glucose tolerant test during 24-28 weeks of gestation. Log-binomial regression models were used to explore the associations between both quartiles of dietary GL, GLs of staple foods and the risks of GDM,respectively. Results: The medians of dietary GL and GL of staple foods were 145.70 (113.23-180.85) and 121.05 (89.08-155.70), respectively. The median GL of both rice and tubers were 73.14 (43.89-107.50) and 3.43 (0.00-9.84), respectively. After adjusting for the age at pregnancy, pre-pregnancy body mass index and other confounding factors, results of log-binomial regressions analysis showed that when compared with the lowest quartile of dietary GL group, the third and highest quartiles of dietary GL groups increased the risk of GDM (RR=1.47, 95%CI: 1.20-1.80; RR=1.31, 95%CI: 1.04-1.64), respectively. Compared with the lowest quartile of GL of staple foods, the third and highest quartiles of GL of staple foods groups also increased the risk of GDM (RR=1.28, 95%CI: 1.04-1.58; RR=1.27, 95%CI: 1.02-1.60), respectively. The third and highest quartiles of GL of rice groups increased the risk of GDM (RR=1.30, 95%CI: 1.06-1.59; RR=1.28, 95%CI: 1.03-1.59), respectively, than the lowest quartile of GL of rice group. When compared with the lowest quartile of GL of tubers group, the highest quartile of GL of tubers group increased the risk of GDM (RR=1.30, 95%CI: 1.09-1.54). However, we did not notice the effects of wheat GL and coarse grain GL on the risk of GDM. Conclusions: A positive association was found between dietary glycemic load and the risk of GDM. Higher dietary glycemic load, especially in rice and tubers during first trimester, seemed to have increased the risk of GDM.

Porphyromonas gingivalis Promotes Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression in an Immune Microenvironment

Increasing evidence has revealed a significant association between microorganisms and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Porphyromonas gingivalis, the keystone pathogen in chronic periodontitis, is considered an important potential etiologic agent of OSCC, but the underlying immune mechanisms through which P. gingivalis mediates tumor progression of the oral cancer remain poorly understood. Our cohort study showed that the localization of P. gingivalis in tumor tissues was related to poor survival of patients with OSCC. Moreover, P. gingivalis infection increased oral lesion multiplicity and size and promoted tumor progression in a 4-nitroquinoline-1 oxide (4NQO)–induced carcinogenesis mouse model by invading the oral lesions. In addition, CD11b+ myeloid cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) showed increased infiltration of oral lesions. Furthermore, in vitro observations showed that MDSCs accumulated when human-derived dysplastic oral keratinocytes (DOKs) were exposed to P. gingivalis, and CXCL2, CCL2, interleukin (IL)–6, and IL-8 may be potential candidate genes that facilitate the recruitment of MDSCs. Taken together, our findings suggest that P. gingivalis promotes tumor progression by generating a cancer-promoting microenvironment, indicating a close relationship among P. gingivalis, tumor progression of the oral cancer, and immune responses.

[Post-marketing multi-center safety surveillance of inactivated enterovirus A71 vaccine (Vero cell)]

Objective: To evaluate the post-marketing safety profiles of the inactivated enterovirus type 71 (EV-A71) vaccine (Vero cell) after routine inoculation. Methods: Eleven cities of Zhejiang Province, Fengtai district of Beijing, Qinnan district, two counties as Pingle and Pingguo of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and Dongtai city of Jiangsu Province were selected as the field sites. A total of 45 239 subjects were enrolled in this study from children who seeked the vaccination of EV-A71 vaccine during the period from July, 2016 to June, 2018. Different sampling method were adopted in different sites. All vaccinated children were invited to participate in the study in Fengtai and Dongtai, however, systematic sampling method were adopted in other sites. Active surveillance was conducted and information about adverse reactions (ARs) occurred in 30 min, 3 d and 30 d following each dose of EV-A71 immunization was collected by field observation, phone-call or face-to-face interview. The incidence of ARs in different types, symptoms and grades were described. Results: In total, there were 45 239 children who received 71 243 doses EV-A71 vaccine. The overall incidence of ARs was 1.079% (769 doses), with the highest incidence of 1.182% (177/14 973) in 5-11 month group and the lowest incidence of 0.849% (18/2 119) in ≥ 36 month group among different age groups. There was a higher incidence in solicited ARs, which was 1.047% (746 doses). The incidences of grade 1 and grade 2 ARs were also higher, which were 0.404% (288 doses) and 0.554% (395 doses), respectively. No grade 4 ARs occurred. The doses of the first and the second vaccination was 40 736 and 30 507, respectively, and the incidences of ARs were 1.281% (522 doses) and 0.810% (247 doses). Also, the incidences of ARs were 0.091% (37 doses) and 0.043% (13 doses) in local, and 1.168% (476 doses) and 0.760% (232 doses) in system. The symptoms of ARs after the two doses of vaccination were basically the same. Redness at the injection site was the most common local ARs after each dose vaccination, with doses of 24 and 11, while fever was the most common systemic ARs, with doses of 362 and 190. Moreover, ARs mainly occurred in 30 min to 3 d after each dose vaccination, with incidence of 1.016% (414 doses) and 0.698% (213 doses) in the first and second dose, respectively. Conclusion: The ARs had a low incidence after vaccination in children and most were mild or moderate. EV-A71 vaccine with good safety is suitable for inoculation in a large scale.

Association between phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors use and risk of melanoma: a meta-analysis

This meta-analysis aimed to clarify the actual association between the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) use and the risk of melanoma in erectile dysfunction (ED) patients. A systematic literature search was conducted in online databases in October, 2016 to identify studies focusing on the association between PDE5-Is use and the risk of melanoma. Summarized multivariate adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of associations. A total of six clinical trials containing more than one million participants were included. ED patients  using PDE5-Is shared a significant high risk of melanoma (RR=1.12, 95% CI=1.03-1.21, p=0.006). Positive associations were observed in all kinds of prescriptions: single prescription (RR=1.20, 95% CI=1.06-1.35, p=0.003), medium number of prescription (RR=1.15, 95% CI=1.01-1.30, p=0.03), and high number of prescription (RR=1.18, 95% CI=1.05-1.34, P=0.006). Additionally, PDE5-Is were also found to be significantly associated with increased risk of basal cell carcinoma (RR=1.14, 95% CI=1.09-1.19, p<0.00001). Our study indicates that PDE5-Is use could significantly increase the risk of melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. However, the risk of melanoma did not rise significantly with the increased number of prescriptions. Consequently, owing to the lack of information about other potential synergistic factors, it is difficult for us to make a solid conclusion that application of PDE5-Is is the direct cause of increased risk of melanoma. Their relationship needs to be validated by further evidences.

[Association between gestational weight gain and adverse pregnancy outcomes: a prospective study]

Objective: To explore the association between gestational weight gain (GWG) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: A prospective study was conducted among 1 220 healthy singleton pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy, from Chengdu city, Sichuan province. Pre-gestational body mass and other basic information were collected through a set of questionnaires. Weight at the last week before delivery was measured and GWG was classified by IOM criteria (2009). Related information on pregnancy outcomes was collected after delivery, through the hospital information system. Multiple non-conditional logistic regression models were used to test the association between GWG and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Results: In total, data on 1 045 pregnant women were analyzed. Compared with adequate GWG, excessive GWG was associated with the increased risks of cord entanglement and large for gestational age (OR=1.641, 95%CI: 1.197-2.252; OR=1.678, 95%CI: 0.132-2.488), respectively. Additionally, when compared with the adequate GWG, insufficient GWG was associated with the increased risk of preterm delivery (OR=3.189, 95%CI: 1.604-6.341). Conclusions: Both excessive and insufficient GWG appeared associated with the pregnancy outcomes. Weight monitoring should be strengthened for pregnant women to reduce related risks on adverse pregnancy outcomes.

A long-acting pegylated recombinant human growth hormone (Jintrolong® ) in healthy adult subjects: Two single-dose trials evaluating safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Jintrolong^® is a pegylated recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) (PEG-rhGH) developed for weekly subcutaneous (sc) injection. The current human tolerability trial and pharmacokinetics (PK) trial evaluated the safety, tolerability and PK of single-dose Jintrolong^® injection in healthy adult subjects.

METHODS

Both trials were single-centre, randomized, open-label and single-dose studies. In the human tolerability trial, 34 healthy subjects were randomized to receive single-dose Jintrolong^® sc injection (0.01, 0.06, 0.2, 0.5 or 0.8 mg/kg) or placebo. In the PK study, 30 healthy male subjects were evenly randomized into 3 groups to receive single-dose Jintrolong^® sc injection (0.1, 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg), and the subjects receiving 0.4 mg/kg Jintrolong^® were given a single sc injection of conventional rhGH (0.067 mg/kg) after a 14-day washout period. Safety and PK profiles of Jintrolong^® were evaluated.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Jintrolong^® was well tolerated with no serious adverse events or local injection responses. The PK trial showed that the plasma growth hormone concentration elevated quickly and stayed at peak level between 12 and 48 hours post-Jintrolong^® injection, then decreased gradually back to baseline within 168 hours. Compared to single-dose conventional rhGH, Jintrolong^® at all doses demonstrated significantly longer half time and time to maximum plasma concentration, lower clearance and higher systemic drug exposure, indicating prolonged presence of GH in the subjects' circulation. Additionally, systemic exposure to Jintrolong^® increased in a dose-dependent manner.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Single-dose Jintrolong^® injection was well tolerated in healthy adult subjects, and the maximum tolerable dose was no lower than 0.8 mg/kg. Jintrolong^® was long-acting with the potential for weekly administration.

[Three-dimensional architecture of intraosseous vascular anatomy of the hamate: a micro-computed tomography study]

OBJECTIVE

To obtain three-dimensional intraosseous artery of the hamate and to provide the vascular anatomy basis of hamate fracture fixation.

METHODS

PbO (lead monoxide, Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Beijing Co. Ltd) was ground into particles less than 40 μm and suspended in turpentine oil (Chemical Reagent Beijing Co. Ltd) at ratios of 1 g : 1.5 mL, 1 g : 1 mL and 1 g : 0.5 mL. Three specimens were investigated. Brachial arteries were cannulated and perfused with lead-based contrast agent. Hamates were harvested and scanned using micro-computed tomography (microCT). The acquisition protocols were as follows: CT scan setup: total rotation [Degrees], 360; rotation steps, 360; X-ray detector setup: transaxial, 2048; axial, 2048; exposure time, 1 500 ms, Binning, 1; system magnification: high-med. X-ray tube setup: 80 kV, 500 mA current. The down-sampling factor used in the reconstruction was 2. The effective voxel size of the final image was 27.30 μm. The three-dimensional model of the hamate was generated and the distribution and pattern of vessels were evaluated.

RESULTS

There were abundant extraosseous vessels around the hamate. They were mainly running in the tendons and ligaments around the hamate. Four vascular zones were identified on the hamate surface. They were on the palmar platform of the hamate body, on the dorsal side, on the ulnar side and on the tip of hamulus, namely. There were anastomoses among 4 vascular zones. We did not observe any vessels penetrating through the articular cartilage. The extraosseous vessels of the vascular zones gave a number of intraosseous branches into the hamate. The hamate body received intraosseous blood supply from the dorsal, palmar and ulnar while the hamulus from the palmar, ulnar and hamulus tip. There were some intraosseous branches anastomosing with each other.

CONCLUSION

The extraosseous and intraosseous vessels of the hamate were more than what used to be considered. The hamate body and hamulus received blood supply from multiple directions and arteries anastomosed extensively both outside and inside the hamate, making it possible that the intraosseous perfusion survived after fracture. It is likely that the nonunion after the hamate fracture is not caused by the vascular damage but the malalignment of the fragments.

Antibacterial isoeugenol coating on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces prevents biofilm growth

AIMS

Pathogenic bacteria can spread between individuals or between food items via the surfaces they share. Limiting the survival of pathogens on surfaces, therefore, presents an opportunity to limit at least one route of how pathogens spread. In this study, we propose that a simple coating with the essential oil isoeugenol can be used to circumvent the problem of bacterial transfer via surfaces.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two commonly used materials, stainless steel and polyethylene, were coated by physical adsorption, and the coatings were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and water contact angle measurements. We quantified and visualized the colonization of coated and uncoated surfaces by three bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. No viable cells were detected on surfaces coated with isoeugenol.

CONCLUSIONS

The isoeugenol coating prepared with simple adsorption proved effective in preventing biofilm formation on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces. The result was caused by the antibacterial effect of isoeugenol, as the coating did not diminish the adhesive properties of the surface.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Our study demonstrates that a simple isoeugenol coating can prevent biofilm formation of S. aureus, L. monocytogenes and P. fluorescens on two commonly used surfaces.

Osteopontin adsorption to Gram-positive cells reduces adhesion forces and attachment to surfaces under flow

The bovine milk protein osteopontin (OPN) may be an efficient means to prevent bacterial adhesion to dental tissues and control biofilm formation. This study sought to determine to what extent OPN impacts adhesion forces and surface attachment of different bacterial strains involved in dental caries or medical device–related infections. It further investigated if OPN’s effect on adhesion is caused by blocking the accessibility of glycoconjugates on bacterial surfaces. Bacterial adhesion was determined in a shear-controlled flow cell system in the presence of different concentrations of OPN, and interaction forces of single bacteria were quantified using single-cell force spectroscopy before and after OPN exposure. Moreover, the study investigated OPN’s effect on the accessibility of cell surface glycoconjugates through fluorescence lectin-binding analysis. OPN strongly affected bacterial adhesion in a dose-dependent manner for all investigated species (Actinomyces naeslundii, Actinomyces viscosus, Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus mitis, and Streptococcus oralis). Likewise, adhesion forces decreased after OPN treatment. No effect of OPN on the lectin-accessibility to glycoconjugates was found. OPN reduces the adhesion and adhesion force/energy of a variety of bacteria and has a potential therapeutic use for biofilm control. OPN acts upon bacterial adhesion without blocking cell surface glycoconjugates.

[Association between gestational weight gain per trimester/total gestational weight gain and gestational diabetes mellitus]

Objective: To understand the association between gestational weight gain (GWG) per trimester/total (GWG) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among 829 healthy pregnant women from Chengdu who delivered a singleton during March-September 2013. Basic information about pre-pregnancy was collected at the first time, exercise information per trimester, dietary intake information per trimester and gestational age at delivery were obtained by questionnaire. Weight at the (12 ± 1)^th, (28 ± 1)^th, (36 ± 1)^th and last week before delivery were measured. GDM was diagnosed according to the National Diabetes and Pregnancy Prevention Guidelines (2014). At last, a total of 682 pregnant women were analyzed. After controlling the potential confounders, multiple logistic regression models were used to test the associations between GWG per trimester/total GWG and GDM. Results: After adjusting for age at delivery, pre-pregnancy body mass index, family histories of type 2 diabetes and hypertension, exercise in the first trimester, parity and energy intake in trimester and other potential confounders. Compared with adequate GWG in the first trimester, insufficient and excessive GWG in the first trimester were associated with increased risk of GDM (OR=1.23, 95%CI: 0.63-2.38, and OR=2.20, 95%CI: 1.12-4.35). Compared with adequate GWG in the second trimester, insufficient and excessive GWG in the second trimester were associated with decreased risk of GDM (OR=0.47, 95%CI: 0.18-1.19, and OR=0.78, 95% CI: 0.43-1.42). Compared with adequate GWG in the third trimester, insufficient GWG in the third trimester was associated with increased risk of GDM (OR=1.48, 95%CI: 0.77-2.84), excessive GWG in the third trimester was associated with decreased risk of GDM (OR= 0.53, 95% CI: 0.28-0.99). Compared with adequate total GWG in pregnancy, insufficient GWG in pregnancy was associated with increased risk of GDM (OR=2.16, 95% CI: 1.04-4.46), excessive GWG in pregnancy was associated with decreased risk of GDM (OR=0.74, 95% CI: 0.38-1.46). Conclusions: Insufficient and excessive GWG in the first trimester were associated with increased risk of GDM, the first trimester may represent a critical period for risk of GDM. The effects of GWG in the second and third trimester on GDM need further study.

[Assessment of comprehensive nutritional status and eating behavior among 311 middle aged and aged women with osteoporosis in Chengdu]

Objective: To investigate the comprehensive nutritional status and diet behavior of middle aged and elderly women with osteoporosis, and thereby to explore the relationship between diet behavior and comprehensive nutritional status. Methods: 311 middle-aged and elderly women with osteoporosis in Chengdu were included in this study. Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was applied to assess their comprehensive nutritional status. Information of social-demographic characteristics and diet behavior (about meals, snacks and water drinking, etc.) of the subjects was collected by questionnaire. Chi square test was used to assess the differences in nutritional status among patients who have different eating behaviors. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between diet behaviors and comprehensive nutritional status. Results: The mean MNA score of subjects was 25.8±2.5. 20.3% (63/311) of the subjets were at risk of potential malnutrition, but there was no malnourished subjects found. 46.9% (46/311) of the subjects were in good appetite. 95.2% (296/311) of them had a fixed food intake each meal. 65.8% (198/311) of them had snacks every day, and the most common choice was fruit (86.4% (248/287)). 54.8% (165/311) of them had initiative drinking water habits, and the most common choice was plain boiled water (79.9%, 246/308). 76.5% (238/311) of them had daily portable water less than 1 500 ml. After adjusting the effects of age, occupation and education level, bad appetite (OR=3.50, 95%CI: 1.18-10.62), unfixed food intake (OR=7.27, 95%CI: 1.40-35.83), and seldom or never intake of snack (OR=3.71, 95%CI: 1.42-9.72) were risk factors for malnutrition risk, while tea drinking was protective factor(OR=0.31, 95%CI: 0.11-0.93). Conclusion: Risk of potential malnutrition and unhealthy diet behavior among the middle aged and elderly women with osteoporosis should be paid more attention. Unhealtghy diet behavior has a negative effect on their comprehensive nutritional status.

Glipizide blocks renal interstitial fibrosis by inhibiting AKT signaling pathway

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes affects the renal function at a certain stage. Oral medication glipizide plays a hypoglycemic effect mainly through releasing insulin, while more insulin is derived from islet β cells. It is still controversy whether antidiabetics. This study mainly intends to investigate the role of glipizide in inhibiting renal interstitial fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 93 SD rats were purchased from Guangdong animal monitoring and established unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model to simulate renal interstitial fibrosis. Forty rats in the experimental group received glipizide intraperitoneal injection for a week at 30 days after modeling, while another 40 rats in the control group received a normal saline injection. The last 10 rats were treated as blank group. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was applied to test renal interstitial fibrosis. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect fibronectin expression in glomerular and renal tubules. AKT signaling pathway related factors expression was measured by Western blot to determine AKT signal activation.

RESULTS

HE staining showed that the entire kidney cytoplasm red dye becomes shallow, renal medulla gradually disappears, renal tubular epithelial cells enlarge, vacuoles degeneration, renal tubule and collecting tube expansion, inflammatory cells infiltration after UUO modeling. Glipizide treatment decreased dilated renal tubule number, improved glomerulus integrity, and reduced inflammatory infiltration. Fibronectin level in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in control (p<0.05). Western blot revealed that p-AKT expression downregulated after glipizide treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Glipizide blocks renal interstitial fibrosis by inhibiting AKT signaling pathway.

The incidence and economic burden of injuries in Jiangxi, China

OBJECTIVES

This study estimated the incidence, direct medical and non-medical costs, and productivity losses due to morbidity and mortality across multiple strata for injuries that occurred in Jiangxi, China.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Data came from the Jiangxi injury survey, a provincially-representative, population-based sample of 100,010 households. The major economic costs of injuries were divided into direct costs and indirect costs. Direct costs encompass medical costs and direct non-medical costs. Indirect costs refer to the productivity losses due to injury-related morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

In 2005, about one of 18 residents in Jiangxi, China, experienced an injury. Overall, fall, animal bite, and road traffic crash (RTC) injuries accounted for more than 66% of all injuries, while fall, RTC, drowning, and self-harm injuries accounted for 80% of fatal injuries. Average cost per case for a fatal injury was 163,389 RMB ($20,171) for lost productivity and 2800 RMB ($346) in direct medical & non-medical costs. A non-fatal injury resulting in hospitalisation or permanent disability on average caused 5221 RMB ($643) in direct costs and 18,437 RMB ($2276) in lost productivity and, an additional loss of three school days. A non-hospitalised non-fatal injury on average caused 303 ($37) RMB in direct costs and 491 RMB ($61) in lost productivity and, an additional loss of 0.5 school days.

CONCLUSIONS

The unequivocal evidence of the substantial health and financial burden of injuries indicates to Chinese policy makers that more research and efforts are needed to find efficacious and cost-effective interventions targeting injury.

Potential applications of abandoned aromatic polyamide reverse osmosis membrane by hypochlorite degradation

Reverse osmosis (RO) membranes might experience significant changes in surface structure and performance after disinfection has been applied, or after membrane cleaning, because of hydrolysis and oxidation processes.

Commercially available immunoglobulins contain virus neutralizing antibodies against all major genotypes of polyomavirus BK

Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) form the basis of immunotherapeutic strategies against many important human viral infections. Accordingly, we studied the prevalence, titer, genotype-specificity, and mechanism of action of anti-polyomavirus BK (BKV) NAbs in commercially available human immune globulin (IG) preparations designed for intravenous (IV) use. Pseudovirions (PsV) of genotypes Ia, Ib2, Ic, II, III, and IV were generated by co-transfecting a reporter plasmid encoding luciferase and expression plasmids containing synthetic codon-modified VP1, VP2, and VP3 capsid protein genes into 293TT cells. NAbs were measured using luminometry. All IG preparations neutralized all BKV genotypes, with mean EC50 titers as high as 254 899 for genotype Ia and 6,666 for genotype IV. Neutralizing titers against genotypes II and III were higher than expected, adding to growing evidence that infections with these genotypes are more common than currently appreciated. Batch to batch variation in different lots of IG was within the limits of experimental error. Antibody mediated virus neutralizing was dose dependent, modestly enhanced by complement, genotype-specific, and achieved without effect on viral aggregation, capsid morphology, elution, or host cell release. IG contains potent NAbs capable of neutralizing all major BKV genotypes. Clinical trials based on sound pharmacokinetic principles are needed to explore prophylactic and therapeutic applications of these anti-viral effects, until effective small molecule inhibitors of BKV replication can be developed.

Component-Resolved Diagnostic Study of Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus Major Allergen Molecules in a Southern Chinese Cohort

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Little is known about component-resolved diagnosis (CRD) for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) sensitization in the Chinese population. We aimed to evaluate sensitization to Der p components in southern China.

METHODS

Two-hundred immunotherapy-naïve patients with asthma and/or rhinitis positive to specific IgE (sIgE) against Der p extract, along with 20 Der p-negative nonallergic healthy controls, were tested for sIgE against Der p 1, Der p 2, and Der p 10 using ImmunoCAP 100. Seventy-five were further examined with the ImmunoCAP Immuno Solid-phase Allergen Chip (ISAC). Der p 10-positive patients were also tested for sIgE against crude extracts of cockroach, moth, and shrimp.

RESULTS

In total, 183 (91.5%) of the 200 patients were sensitized to Der p 1 and/or Der p 2. The proportion of positive results and the median level of s1gE against Der p 1 were higher in children than in adults. Der p 1 and Der p 2 correlated with Der p in sIgE levels. ImmunoCAP ISAC demonstrated 100% specificity and 84% sensitivity in detecting Der p 1, Der p 2, and Der p 10 compared with ImmunoCAP 100. Sensitization to Der p 10 correlated well with sIgE to shrimp, moths, cockroaches, Pen m 1, Bla g 7, and Ani s 3.

CONCLUSIONS

The detection of Der p 1 and Der p 2 provided a good reflection of atopy to Der p in a Chinese cohort. Sensitization to Der p 10 may result from cross-reactivity with seafood and cockroaches in coastal southern China. ImmunoCAP ISAC may be a useful tool for CRD, with comparable performance to ImmunoCAP 100.