Conectar
by Xinyu Zhang, Yoo Jung Oh, Yunhan Zhang, Jianfeng Zhu
The digital age has fueled a surge in ADHD self-diagnosis as people turn to online platforms for mental health information. However, the relationship between validation-seeking behaviors and self-perception in these online communities and users’ self-perception has received limited scholarly focus. Drawing on self-verification theory and utilizing natural language processing to analyze 452,026 posts from the r/ADHD subreddit, our study uncovers distinct patterns in validation-seeking behaviors. Results show that (a) self-diagnosed individuals with ADHD are more likely to seek social validation and media validation and to report higher levels of negative self-image and internalized stigma than clinically diagnosed individuals, (b) social validation was strongly associated with both positive and negative self-perceptions; and (c) diagnosis status significantly moderated these relationships, such that the effects of social validation on self-image and stigma were consistently weaker for the self-diagnosed group. Theoretically, this study extends self-verification theory by demonstrating that professional verification hierarchically moderates self-verification effectiveness. This implies a practical need for clinicians to acknowledge online validation seeking and for digital communities to affirm user experiences while mitigating stigma.by Haoyang Zhou, Jinfeng Yang, Na Li, Jinying Li, Jianxin Ran, Yan Zheng, Yifan Long, Fang Cheng, Yuanpeng Liao
BackgroundSarcopenia is an age-associated disorder characterized by a progressive decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and physical function. The condition is linked to low levels of anabolic hormones such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), with its downstream phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/ protein kinase B (AKT)/ forkhead box protein O3 (FOXO3) signaling pathway. There is growing evidence that resistance training (RT) or vibration training (VT) could improve physical functioning in individuals with sarcopenia. However, the related physiological influence of exercise on sarcopenia remains elusive.
MethodThis prospective randomized controlled trial will be conducted among 96 participants, aged between 65 and 80 years. In participants, sarcopenia diagnosis will be confirmed based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria, and participants will be randomized into either control, RT, VT, or RVT (combined RT and VT) groups. The intervention will last 12 weeks, with assessments performed at baseline, 12 weeks (after intervention), and 24 weeks (follow-up). The primary outcomes will include skeletal muscle mass, handgrip strength, and gait speed. Secondary outcomes comprise IGF-1 concentrations, PI3K/AKT and FOXO3 protein activity, quality of life, and timed-up-and-go test performance assessments.
DiscussionThis clinical study aims to elucidate the potential modulation of molecular mechanisms in vivo for combined RT and VT in sarcopenia patients and to identify the effects of the intervention on physical function.
Trial registrationChiCTR, ChiCTR2400083643. Registered on April 29, 2024.
by Xing Chen, Zhixiong Zhang, Jiwei Xiang, Ruliu Xiong, Xingmao Zhou
BackgroundSoft tissue and other extraosseous sarcomas (STSES) are rare malignant tumors originating from mesenchymal tissues with complex etiologies. A systematic analysis of global burden trends is urgently needed.
MethodsUtilizing the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database, we assessed STSES incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDR) across regions and countries from 1990 to 2021, stratified by sociodemographic index (SDI). Spatiotemporal models, Joinpoint regression (to calculate average annual percentage changes, AAPC), and decomposition analysis were employed to evaluate the impacts of population growth, aging, and epidemiological factors on disease burden.
ResultsIn 2021, there were 96,201 new STSES cases globally, resulting in 50,203 deaths and 1.678 million DALYs. While age-standardized rates (per 100,000 person-years) showed declining trends (AAPC for ASIR = −0.13, ASMR = −0.60, ASDR = − 0.94), absolute burden increased by 77.97% due to population growth. Males exhibited consistently higher burden than females, with incidence peaking at 55–74 years. Notably, young females (10–29 years) transiently surpassed males in DALYs. Significant regional disparities emerged: High-SDI regions (e.g., Western Europe) demonstrated lower ASMR attributable to advanced diagnostics and treatment, whereas low-SDI regions (e.g., Uganda, ASMR = 1.96/100,000) faced poorer prognoses due to healthcare deficiencies. SDI exhibited a nonlinear association with disease burden—middle-SDI regions (0.4–0.8) showed rising ASIR, potentially linked to industrial pollution and improved diagnostic capabilities. These findings underscore the critical need for context-specific prevention and resource allocation strategies to address the evolving global STSES burden.
ConclusionsThe global STSES burden is predominantly driven by population growth, necessitating targeted prevention strategies addressing occupational exposures in males and subtype-specific risks among young females. While high-SDI regions demonstrate mortality reduction through precision oncology, low-SDI regions require urgent improvements in healthcare accessibility to mitigate survival disparities. Persistent regional heterogeneity underscores the imperative for international collaboration to standardize diagnostic protocols and ensure equitable resource allocation. These insights emphasize the need for stratified surveillance systems and translational research to optimize context-specific intervention frameworks.
by Chenyu Zheng, Ming Fang, Yue Zhang, Xinyu Liu, Zhihuan Huang
Exposure to natural landscapes has been shown to affect both physiological and psychological well-being, with the extent of these effects varying across different landscape types. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The association among stress reduction, environments characteristics and individual differences requires further investigation, particularly considering the complexity of landscape attributes and the variability of personal responses. In this study, 98 university students participated in a survey to evaluate the effects of different landscape types on visual preference and fatigue recovery. Physiological data (blood pressure, heart rate), psychological data (Perceived Restorative Scale), and visual preferences were analyzed before and after participants viewed the images of eight representative landscape space types: mountain, field, waterscape, lawn, desert, forest, artificial nature, plant. The results indicated that landscape type significantly influenced both physiological responses and emotional states, as well as participants’ perceived recovery from stress. Among the eight landscape spaces, water features and forests were reported to be the most restorative. Compared to freshmen, juniors exhibited greater improvements in physical and psychological recovery, alongside more positive evaluations of the environments. Notably, the desert landscape elicited varied responses depending on participants’ grade level and gender, suggesting that restoration effects may be modulated by individual characteristics. This may reflect an evolutionary predisposition to prefer natural features that enhance survival. These findings contribute to environmental psychology and provide valuable insights for educational practice and environmental design.by Jing Guo, Wenshuang Wang, Xiaoxue Zhang, Yulin Zheng, Xinran Wang
Frailty is a common multifactorial clinical syndrome in older patients that seriously affects their prognosis. However, most studies to date have ignored the dynamics of frailty. Therefore, we employed a one-month observational longitudinal study to explore frailty trajectories using a latent class growth model. In total, 155 older patients who underwent abdominal surgery involving the digestive system were assessed preoperatively, at discharge, and at the one-month follow-up, and multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing frailty trajectories. Four frailty trajectory patterns were identified: no frailty (13.5%), frailty exacerbation (40.0%), frailty improvement (20.0%), and persistent frailty (26.5%). Logistic regression analysis revealed that body mass index, the Charlson comorbidity index score, the type of surgery, the intraoperative drainage tube retention time (drainage time), the first time the patient got out of bed after surgery, the time of the first oral feed after surgery, postoperative complications, mobility, nutritional risk, and anxiety were associated with frailty trajectories. We identified four frailty trajectories in older patients undergoing abdominal surgery involving the digestive system and found that these trajectories were influenced by multiple factors. Focusing on individual specificity is conducive to accurately addressing frailty-associated clinical problems and guiding relevant nursing decisions.by Lijun Jiang, Qian Yu, Hui Li, Fudong Wang, Feng Liu, Zhenxing Xu
ObjectiveTo determine the association between blood pressure variability (BPV), coagulation indexes, and germinal matrix-intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH-IVH) in preterm infants with gestational age ≤ 32 weeks. In addition, we aimed to determine whether the combination can predict the occurrence and outcome of GMH-IVH.
MethodsThis retrospective study included 106 preterm infants. According to the presence of GMH-IVH, the preterm infants were divided into GMH-IVH (51 patients) and no GMH-IVH (55 patients) groups. Furthermore, according to the short-term prognoses, the GMH-IVH group was subdivided into good outcome (30 patients) and poor outcome (21 patients) groups. Coagulation function and BPV indexes were collected at admission. Univariate analysis, logistic regression model, and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to analyze the relationship between indexes and the occurrence and outcome of GMH-IVH in preterm infants.
ResultsUnivariate analysis showed that the difference between maximum and minimum (Max-Min); standard deviation (SD); coefficient of variation (CV) of BPV, prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and proportion of premature rupture of membranes (PROM) were higher in the GMH-IVH group than the no GMH-IVH group (P ). Logistic regression analysis showed that INR and DBP SD were directly correlated with GMH-IVH, and the joint curve had the largest area under the curve (AUC) (82.4% sensitivity and 79.7% specificity). BPV SD, BPV CV, APTT, and INR were higher in the poor outcome group than in the good outcome group (P ). Logistic regression analysis showed that INR and DBP SD were directly correlated with poor outcomes in preterm infants with GMH-IVH. The joint curve had the largest AUC (sensitivity 76.2% and specificity 90.0%).
ConclusionIncreased INR and DBP SD are directly associated factors for the developement and poor short-term outcome of GMH-IVH, and combined monitoring of INR and DBP SD has certain reference value for the early identification and prognosis evaluation of GMH-IVH in preterm infants with gestational age ≤ 32 weeks.
by Hui Ouyang, Xiaolin Dou, Xinying Li, Mingyu Cao, Zhijing Wu, Fada Xia
PurposeThis retrospective cohort study aimed to reevaluate the prognostic impact of sex and determine whether age modifies the effect of sex on cancer-specific survival (CSS) in PTC patients.
MethodsData for PTC patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 were retrieved from the SEER database. The primary outcome was CSS. The effect of Sex was evaluated using both relative (hazard ratios, HRs) and absolute measures (survival differences). Additionally, the effect of sex modified by age was assessed using restricted cubic spline curves from the Cox and Poisson models, with further analysis of the interaction between sex and age.
ResultsOf 77,349 patients, 16,152 (20.9%) were male. Men exhibited older age, more aggressive clinicopathological features, and received more radioactive iodine treatment. Multivariate Cox analysis determined male sex as an independent risk factor (adjusted HR: 1.46 (1.24–1.70). The 10-year and 15-year survival differences between men and women were 0.46% (95% CI, 0.25%−0.67%) and 0.77% (95% CI, 0.31%−1.22%), respectively. Moreover, a nonlinear effect for sex across age was observed, with HRs for men plateauing below age 50 and decreasing thereafter. Importantly and conversely, before age 50, the absolute survival difference increased slightly with age, but after 50, it significantly widened. Furthermore, A significant negative multiplicative interaction between sex and age was found.
ConclusionsOur analyses provide robust evidence that male sex is indeed an independent risk factor for CSS in PTC patients. Although younger female patients show a relative survival advantage, this does not translate into a substantial absolute benefit, which widens with advancing age.
by Qiong Zhou, Liwen Qian, Chong Shen, Xinyan Bei, Gaojie Liu, Xiaonan Sun
PurposeThis study aims to develop a fully automated VMAT planning program for short-course radiotherapy (SCRT) in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer (LARC) and assess its plan quality, feasibility, and efficiency.
Materials and methodsThirty LARC patients who underwent short-course VMAT treatment were retrospectively selected from our institution for this study. An auto-planning program for neoadjuvant short-course radiotherapy (SCRT) in LARC was developed using the RayStation scripting platform integrated with the Python environment. The patients were re-planned using this auto-planning program. Subsequently, the differences between the automatic plans (APs) and existing manual plans (MPs) were compared in terms of plan quality, monitor units (MU), plan complexity, and other dosimetric parameters. Plan quality assurance (QA) was performed using the ArcCHECK dosimetric verification system.
ResultsCompared to MPs, the APs achieved similar target coverage and conformity, while providing more rapid dose fall-off. Except for the V5Gy dose level, other dosimetric metrics (V25 Gy, V23 Gy, V15 Gy, Dmean, etc.) for the small bowel were significantly lower in the AP compared to the MP (p Conclusion
We developed a fully automated, feasible SCRT VMAT planning program for LARC. This program significantly enhanced plan quality and efficiency while substantially reducing the dose to OARs.
by Bingbing Fan, Kexin Ren, Lang Li
BackgroundThe relationship between physical activity changes, weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI), and mortality risk among older Chinese adults with multimorbidity remains unclear. This study aimed to examine whether changes in physical activity and WWI modify the mortality risk by analyzing data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS).
MethodOur study was based on the 2011 ~ 2018 wave of the CLHLS, involving a study of 2,626 older adults with multimorbidity. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) and a stratified analysis was conducted to assess the combined impact of WWI and physical exercise on all-cause mortality in patients with multimorbidity.
ResultPatients with multimorbidity who engaged in regular physical activity exhibited a 41% reduction in all-cause mortality compared to those who had never been physically active (HR:0.59, 95% CI:0.49, 0.70). All-cause mortality was increased by 13% in patients with high WWI and multimorbidity compared to those with low WWI (HR:1.13, 95% CI:1.01, 1.27). Furthermore, WWI-stratified analyses revealed that varying physical activity profiles had a more pronounced protective or detrimental impact on all-cause mortality among multimorbidity patients in the high WWI group compared to the low WWI group.
ConclusionThis study demonstrates that both initiating and maintaining physical activity significantly reduce mortality risk in multimorbid older adults, even those with higher WWI. Our findings support integrating structured exercise interventions and routine WWI monitoring into clinical care to improve survival outcomes in this population.
by Yu-Peng Ye, Guo-You Qin, Xinyu Zhang, Shan-Shan Han, Bo Li, Ning Zhou, Qi Liu, Chen-xi Li, Yang-Sheng Zhang, Qian-qian Shao
ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the impact of physical exercise on university students’ life satisfaction and analyses the chain mediation effect of general self-efficacy and health literacy, providing empirical reference and theoretical foundation for the comprehensive enhancement and optimization of students’ mental health.
MethodBased on data from the “China University Student Physical Activity and Health Tracking Survey” (CPAHLS-CS) 2024, the measurement scales used included the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and the 9-item Short Form Health Literacy Scale (HLS-SF9). A total of 4575 valid samples were analyzed.
ResultsA significant positive correlation was found between physical exercise and life satisfaction (r = 0.137, P Conclusion
University students’ life satisfaction is closely related to physical exercise, general self-efficacy, and health literacy. General self-efficacy and health literacy play a full mediating role in the effect of physical exercise on life satisfaction.
by Weiyong Chen, Zhongrong Yang, Xing Wang, Weiwei Wang
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the demographic characteristics of Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) recruited online and identify the factorsassociated with meeting homosexual partners at fixed offline locations.
MethodsUnivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to examine the factors that influenced their meeting up with homosexual partners at fixed offline locations.
ResultsA total of 604 MSM were included, with 133 participants (22.02%) meeting homosexual partners at fixed offline locations. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that participantswho were willing to engage in commercial sex, engage in behaviors such as alcohol consumption, drug use, or aphrodisiac use during homosexual activities, and hadused HIVPre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in the last six months were more likely to meet homosexual partners at fixed offline locations.
ConclusionsThe proportion of participants meeting homosexual partners at fixed offline locations was relatively high, emphasizing the need to increase education and awareness among MSM to reduce relatedbehaviors during homosexual activities. Further promotion of the proper use of PrEP and avoidance of commercial sex are essential for lowering the risk of HIV infection among this population.
by Chao Xu, Chuan Shao, Jing Wang, Xinmin Ding, Nan Wu
BackgroundData regarding the association between anthropometric factors and meningioma risk are inconsistent. Our aim was to investigate the association of body mass index (BMI), height, waist to hip ratio (WHR), waist circumference, and meningioma risk through a comprehensive meta-analysis.
MethodsAn extensive review of literature was conducted in PubMed and Embase databases. Random-effects models were used to pool the study-specific relative risk estimates (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Moreover, we employed a dose-response meta-analysis with a one-stage robust error meta-regression (REMR) model.
ResultsWe included nine prospective studies for four anthropometric factors listed above and meningioma risk. Compared with normal weight, both overweight (RR:1.11, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.19; P = 0.003, I2 = 0.0%) and obesity (RR: 1.38, 95% CI:1.16, 1.64; P 2 = 54.7%) were statistically significantly associated with meningioma risk. Dose-response analysis showed a nonlinear relationship between BMI and meningioma risk (P = 0.038). For height, a positive association was identified for men (RR:1.30, 95% CI:1.08, 1.56; P = 0.005, I2 = 0.0%) but not women (RR:1.13, 95% CI: 0.94,1.36; P = 0.186, I2 = 49.8%). Highest vs. lowest levels analyses also showed a positive association between meningioma risk and waist circumference (RR:1.89, 95% CI:1.34, 2.66; P 2 = 0.0%) and WHR (RR:1.40, 95% CI:1.00, 1.94; P = 0.048, I2 = 0.0%).
ConclusionOur meta-analysis indicates greater height (in men) and excess weight and body fat mass were associated with an increased risk of meningioma. Further prospective studies with particular attention to sex disparity and dose-response analysis are warranted to confirm our observation.
by Xin Zhang, Zijian Xi, Min Yang, Xiuqin Zhang, Ruikai Wu, Shuang Li, Lu Pan, Yuan Fang, Peng Lv, Yan Ma, Haiping Duan, Bingling Wang, Kunzheng Lv
BackgroundIt is crucial to comprehend the interplay between air pollution and meteorological conditions in relation to population health within the framework of "dual-carbon" targets. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of intricate environmental factors, encompassing both meteorological conditions and atmospheric pollutants, on respiratory disease (RD) mortality in Qingdao, a representative coastal city in China.
MethodsThe RD mortality cases were collected from the Chronic Disease Surveillance Monitoring System in Qingdao during Jan 1st, 2014 and Dec 31st, 2020. The distributed-lag nonlinear model and generalized additivity model were used to assess the association between daily mean temperature (DMT), air pollutant exposure and RD mortality. To ascertain the robustness of the model and further investigate this relationship, a stratified analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted to mitigate potential confounding factors.
ResultsA total of 19,905 mortalities from RD were recorded. The minimum mortality temperature (MMT) was determined to be 23.5°C, and DMT and RD mortality showed an N-shaped relationship. At the MMT of 23.5°C, the cumulative relative risk (cumRR) for mortality within a lag period of 0–14 days from the highest temperature (31°C) was estimated at 2.114 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.475 ~ 3.028). The effect value of particulate matter (PM) also increased with a longer cumulative lag time. In the single pollutant model, the highest risk of RD mortality was observed on the lag1-day of per 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 exposure, with an excess risk ratio (ER) of 0.847% (95% CI: 0.335% ~ 1.362%). The largest cumulative effect was found at a lag of 8 days, with an ER of 1.546% (95% CI: 0.483% ~ 2.621%). A similar trend was found for PM10. For O3 exposure, the highest risk was observed on the lag1-day of per 10 μg/m3 increase, with an ER of 1.073% (95% CI: 0.502% ~ 1.647%), and the largest cumulative effect occurred at a lag of 2 days with an ER of 1.113% (95%CI: 0.386% ~ 1.844%). Results from the dual-pollutants model demonstrated that the effect of PM on the risk of RD mortality remained significant and slightly increased in magnitude. Moreover, composite pollutants exhibited a higher risk effect, reaching its peak after one week; however, there was a decrease in single-day cumulative effects as more pollutant types were included. Subgroup analysis showed that females, elderly individuals, and those exposed during warm seasons demonstrated greater susceptibility to PM exposure.
ConclusionThe present study revealed a significant association between short-term exposure to high temperature, PM2.5, PM10 and O3 and the risk of RD mortality in Qingdao, even in dual- and composite-pollutants models. Furthermore, our findings indicate that females, the elderly population, and warm seasons exhibit heightened sensitivity to PM exposure.
by Xiaoyi Shu, Chun Feng, Chak-Lam Ip, Xin Zhang, Nan Yang, Shibo Li, Jia Han, Weibing Wu, Alec Knight
BackgroundFostering a strong professional identity (PI) enhances career fulfillment. In China, therapy education is undergoing development, integrating both Western and traditional health concepts, causing inconsistent PI among therapy students. To date, no validated tools exist to measure and monitor PI of Chinese therapy students. This study aimed to translate and validate the 9-item MacLeod Clark Professional Identity Scale (MCPIS-9) for this purpose.
DesignThis study involved translation and cultural adaptation of the MCPIS-9, followed by a rigorous assessment of its model fit and psychometric properties using data collected via an online questionnaire.
MethodsA forward- and backward- translation process was conducted. Content validity was evaluated using item-level content validity index (I-CVI) and scale level content validity index average method (S-CVI/Ave). Therapy students across all grades at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in China were eligible. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) examined the underlying factor structure. Model fit was evaluated through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using the Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) and Root Mean Square of Error of Approximation (RMSEA). Convergent validity was assessed through Pearson’s correlations coefficient (r) with the Professional Identity Scale for Health Students and Professionals (PISHSP). Internal consistency was examined using Cronbach’s Alpha (Cα) and McDonald’s Omega (ω).
ResultsA total of 1054 students participated. Content validity was excellent (I-CVI = 0.86–1.0, S-CVI/Ave = 0.98). EFA indicated a two-factor structure with acceptable model fit (CFI = 0.978; TLI = 0.968; SRMR = 0.033; RMSEA = 0.063). Reliability was strong (Cα = 0.835; ω = 0.817). Convergent validity demonstrated a strong correlation (r = 0.75) with the PISHSP.
ConclusionsThe Chinese MCPIS-9 is a reliable and valid tool for assessing PI among therapy students. Future research could focus on refining item 4 of this tool, potentially through further exploration of therapy students’ perceptions of PI within the unique context of the Chinese healthcare system.
by Yating Li, Xing Wang, Xiaolong Liu, Xiangjie Li, Jianling Zhang, Yulan Li
BackgroundGastric cancer (GC) is a highly malignant gastrointestinal tumor characterized by difficult early diagnosis and poor prognosis. Therefore, it is imperative to explore potential therapeutic targets for gastric cancer. PARP9 is abnormally expressed in a variety of tumors and is associated with tumor cell apoptosis and DNA damage. However, its relationship with GC has not been fully studied.
MethodsThe expression and prognostic significance of PARP9 in gastric cancer (GC) were examined using bioinformatics approaches. Cell lines with either knockdown or overexpression of PARP9 were established through lentiviral transduction, and the role of PARP9 in the malignant phenotypes of GC cells was validated via CCK8 assays, wound healing assays, clonogenic assays, and Transwell migration experiments. Finally, alterations in downstream targets and signaling pathways following changes in PARP9 expression were analyzed through RNA sequencing.
ResultsPARP9 is highly expressed in GC tissues and is associated with poor prognosis. PARP9 knockdown can significantly inhibit the proliferation, invasion and migration of GC cells, and increase the apoptosis and DNA damage of GC cells. The therapeutic process of PARP9 in GC may be realized by synergistic interaction with SOX6 through MAPK signaling pathway.
ConclusionsOur study reveals a potential link between PARP9 and GC, providing a new target for the treatment of GC.
by Juan Dong, Xumin Ma, Xingxin Hu, Mengmeng Yan
BackgroundFew studies have globally assessed the cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality burden attributable to secondhand smoke. We aimed to address this research gap.
MethodsWe used a systematic analysis design using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Our primary outcome measures were the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for CVD attributable to secondhand smoke. The annual average percentage change (AAPC) was utilized to describe the temporal trends of ASMR and DALYs.
ResultsFrom 1990 to 2019, global ASMR for CVD due to secondhand smoke decreased from 11.45 (95% CI: 9.47 to 13.42) to 7.43 (95% CI: 6.09 to 8.85), and DALYs decreased from 274.12 (95% CI: 225.36 to 322.20) to 176.93 (95% CI: 145.21 to 211.28). ASMR and DALYs attributable to secondhand smoke are on the rise in 47 countries, with 18 of these countries experiencing increases across both genders and all cardiovascular subtypes. Uzbekistan, Lesotho, and the Philippines have the highest AAPC for CVD due to secondhand smoke in ASMR and DALYs. Specifically, Uzbekistan’s overall ASMR AAPC is 2.2 (95%CI: 2.1–2.3), Lesotho’s is 1.3 (95%CI: 1.2–1.3), and the Philippines’ is 1.1 (95%CI: 1.0–1.2). In terms of DALYs, the AAPC values are 1.7 for Uzbekistan (95%CI: 1.7–1.8), 1.4 for Lesotho (95%CI: 1.3–1.5), and 1.8 for the Philippines (95%CI: 1.7–1.9).
ConclusionOver the past three decades, the epidemiological landscape of CVD mortality associated with secondhand smoke has undergone significant shifts. Notwithstanding global advancements, intensified interventions are paramount in regions experiencing ascending rates.
by Wan-Jing Zhen, Yan Zhang, Wei-Dong Fu, Xiao-Lei Fu, Xin Yan
BackgroundThe current study aims to elucidate the key molecular mechanisms linked to endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) and offer innovative therapeutic targets for SIC.
MethodsThe study downloaded dataset GSE79962 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and acquired the ERS-related gene set from GeneCards. It utilized weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and conducted differential expression analysis to identify key modules and genes associated with SIC. The SIC hub genes were determined by the intersection of WGCNA-based hubs, DEGs, and ERS-related genes, followed by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction. Enrichment analyses, encompassing GO, KEGG, GSEA, and GSVA, were performed to elucidate potential biological pathways. The CIBERSORT algorithm was employed to analyze immune infiltration patterns. Diagnostic and prognostic models were developed to assess the clinical significance of hub genes in SIC. Additionally, in vivo experiments were conducted to validate the expression of hub genes.
ResultsDifferential analysis revealed 1031 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), while WGCNA identified a hub module with 1327 key genes. Subsequently, 13 hub genes were pinpointed by intersecting with ERS-related genes. NOX4, PDHB, SCP2, ACTC1, DLAT, EDN1, and NSDHL emerged as hub ERS-related genes through the protein-protein interaction network, with their diagnostic values confirmed via ROC curves. Diagnostic models incorporating five genes (NOX4, PDHB, ACTC1, DLAT, NSDHL) were validated using the LASSO algorithm, highlighting only the prognostic significance of serum PDHB levels in predicting the survival of septic patients. Additionally, decreased PDHB mRNA and protein expression levels were observed in the cardiac tissue of septic mice compared to control mice.
ConclusionsThis study elucidated the interplay between metabolism and the immune microenvironment in SIC, providing fresh perspectives on the investigation of potential SIC pathogenesis. PDHB emerged as a significant biomarker of SIC, with implications on its progression through the regulation of ERS and metabolism.
by Miao Cheng, Siqi Xiao, Shaer Kayi, Yujie Guan, Yingxin Liu, Jianmei Chen, Hua Chen, Lei Wang, Xiaojin He
ObjectiveAnkylosing spondylitis (AS) patients often present with microscopic signs of gut inflammation. We used proteomic techniques to identify the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the colon tissues of patients with AS and patients with gut inflammation, and then used investigated the influence of NMRAL1 protein on inflammatory cytokines to explore its potential role in the pathogenesis of AS and gut inflammation.
MethodsColonic mucosal tissues were collected from four different groups: healthy individuals (group A), patients with gut inflammation only (group B), patients with AS only (group C), and patients with AS combined with gut inflammation (group D). A total of 20 samples were processed for proteomic analysis, wherein proteins were extracted using SDT lysis, followed by separation via sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The proteins were digested using the filter-aided sample preparation (FASP) method and then analyzed using a timsTOF Pro mass spectrometer. The resulting peptide data were used to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) across the different groups. To further explore the inflammation-related function of NMRAL1 protein, the murine monocyte/macrophage cell line RAW264.7 was used. NMRAL1 mRNA expression levels were assessed via RT-qPCR, and inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-17 and IL-23) were measured using ELISA following NMRAL1 siRNA transfection in LPS-treated macrophages.
ResultsWe collected colonic mucosa specimens from 20 patients, including groups A,B, C and D with 5 patients in each group. We established a database of DEPs and identified 107 (63 upregulated and 44 downregulated) between group B and group A, 78 (16 upregulated and 62 downregulated) between group D and group C, 45 (8 upregulated and 37 downregulated) between group D and group B, and 57 (33 upregulated and 24 downregulated) between group C and group A. Further analysis revealed that the NmrA-like family domain containing 1 (NMRAL1) protein was identified as a DEP specifically associated with group D. The results of in vitro results showed a significant decrease in NMRAL1 mRNA expression in LPS-treated cells (PPPPPPP Conclusion
NMRAL1 is identified as a key differentially expressed protein in AS patients with gut inflammation. Knockdown of NMRAL1 significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines, suggesting its potential role in the pathogenesis of AS and gut inflammation, and as a possible therapeutic target.
by Aneng Cui, Yongxin Dai, Chao Jia, Quansheng Mao, Kelin Yu, Pengcheng Wu, Mengsheng Zhao
Hard structural planes mainly exist in rock slopes and their creep characteristics largely determine slope stability. Traditional models have some shortcomings in describing the creep characteristics of hard structural planes, such as poor adaptability and unclear physical meaning of parameters. In order to overcome these shortcomings, based on the creep failure mechanism of hard structural planes, an element combination model is adopted in the study. In the instantaneous deformation stage, the plastic deformation proportional coefficient n is introduced based on the strain rebound theory of loading-unloading tests. In the attenuation creep stage, the hardening coefficient C and creep index m are introduced. In the viscoelastic-plastic failure stage, the weakening factor k is introduced. By improving traditional elements, a new piecewise nonlinear constitutive relationship of hard structural planes is established and then the creep equation is obtained with integration method. The adaptability of the established model and the way to solve parameters are analyzed and the correctness of the model is proved theoretically. The data of creep tests of the prefabricated serrated interpenetrated green sandstone structural plane and the concealed non-interpenetrated marble structural plane are further fitted and verified, yielding a fitting result exceeding 0.95, thereby indicating a strong correlation. By optimizing the whole creep process of the hard structural plane in stages and demonstrating the difference in the creep mechanism of the hard structural plane at different depths in a rock mass in the high and low stress fields in the form of piecewise function, the physical meaning of the improved model is clearer. In addition, the improved model allows the higher accuracy of nonlinear characteristics in attenuation creep stage and acceleration creep stage and provides the theoretical basis for the stability analysis of rock slopes.by Dao-Cheng Zhou, Jia-Lin Liang, Xin-Yu Hu, Hong-Cheng Fang, De-Liang Liu, Heng-Xia Zhao, Hui-Lin Li, Wen-Hua Xu
BackgroundLife’s Essential 8 (LE8) is the American Heart Association (AHA)’s recently updated assessment of cardiovascular health (CVH). Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the most common chronic noncommunicable diseases associated with CVH impairment and an increased risk of mortality. However, the association of LE8 with all-cause and disease-specific mortality in the MetS population remains unknown. We aimed to explore these associations in a national prospective cohort study from NHANES 2005–2018.
MethodsThe LE8 was calculated according to the assessment criteria proposed by the AHA, which includes health behavior and health factor domains. LE8 scores were categorized as low CVH (0–49), moderate CVH (50–79), and high CVH (80–100). MetS was assessed according to NCEP-ATP III criteria, and mortality data were obtained through prospective linkage to the National Death Index database.
Results7839 participants with MetS were included and only 3.5% were in high CVH. In the fully adjusted models, LE8 was negatively associated with both all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality (hazard ratios [HR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI] of 0.978 (0.971,0.984) and 0.972 (0.961,0.984), respectively, both p Conclusions
LE8 scores were negatively associated with all-cause and CVD mortality in the MetS population, while health behaviors had a dominant role. Adherence to higher CVH contributes to the prevention of excessive all-cause and CVD mortality in the MetS population.
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