Construction of a machine learning model for identifying clinical high-risk carotid plaques based on radiomics / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective     To construct a radiomics model for identifying clinical high-risk carotid plaques. Methods     A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with carotid artery stenosis in China-Japan Friendship Hospital from December 2016 to June 2022. The patients were classified as a clinical high-risk carotid plaque group and a clinical low-risk carotid plaque group according to the occurrence of stroke, transient ischemic attack and other cerebrovascular clinical symptoms within six months. Six machine learning models including eXtreme Gradient Boosting, support vector machine, Gaussian Naive Bayesian, logical regression, K-nearest neighbors and artificial neural network were established. We also constructed a joint predictive model combined with logistic regression analysis of clinical risk factors. Results    Finally 652 patients were collected, including 427 males and 225 females, with an average age of 68.2 years. The results showed that the prediction ability of eXtreme Gradient Boosting was the best among the six machine learning models, and the area under the curve (AUC) in validation dataset was 0.751. At the same time, the AUC of eXtreme Gradient Boosting joint prediction model established by clinical data and carotid artery imaging data validation dataset was 0.823. Conclusion     Radiomics features combined with clinical feature model can effectively identify clinical high-risk carotid plaques.

Clinical study of polyetheretherketone resin-bonded bridge for restoring anterior missing teeth in patients with periodontitis / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To study the clinical effect of a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) bonding bridge on the loss of 3 internal incisors in patients with periodontitis.@*Methods@#This study was reviewed and approved by the ethics committee, and informed consent was obtained from the patients. Thirty-eight patients with periodontitis and 3 missing central or lateral teeth were selected to undergo restoration with a PEEK bonding bridge and then returned to the hospital 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after the restoration was completed. The survival rate of the restorations was assessed by the modified USPHS/Ryge criteria. The plaque index, gingival index, periodontal probing depth and attachment loss of the abutments were recorded, and the changes in periodontal tissues after restoration were observed and compared.@*Results@#Over 24 months of clinical follow-up observation of 38 patients, only 1 patient underwent secondary bonding after partial debonding (evaluated as grade B), while bonding was successful in the other 37 cases (evaluated as grade A). The plaque index, gingival index and periodontal probing depth were significantly lower after restoration than before (P<0.05). There was no significant change in attachment loss between before and after restoration (P>0.05).@*Conclusion@#For periodontitis patients missing 3 internal incisors, short-term PEEK bonding bridge repair has good clinical efficacy.

Research progress on the application of metal nanoenzymes in the prevention and treatment of plaque biofilm-associated oral diseases / 口腔疾病防治

@#Oral plaque biofilms are one of the bases for the survival and metabolism of different bacteria. With the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria due to antibiotic abuse, the prevention and treatment of plaque biofilm-associated oral diseases are becoming increasingly difficult. Although some research progress has been made in the field of biofilm formation and destruction, there is still a lack of effective clinical therapies for plaque biofilm-associated oral diseases. Metal nanoenzymes possess the physical properties of nanoparticles and exhibit catalytic activity similar to that of natural enzymes. The nanoscale size of metal nanoenzymes provides a greater specific surface area to help reactive oxygen species spread rapidly to active catalytic sites and improve the antioxidant properties of nanoenzymes. Additionally, metal nanoenzymes are easy to produce using different methods, such as electrochemical reduction, solvent thermal synthesis and microwave-assisted synthesis. Moreover, metal nanoenzymes can produce a high concentration of hydroxyl radicals, catalyze plaque biofilm degradation, lyse glucan and inhibit biofilm formation by oxidative stress reactions, as well as kill bacteria by releasing metal ions. Thus, metal nanoenzymes are expected to become a new option for the prevention and treatment of oral plaque biofilm-associated diseases. However, metal nanoenzymes can enter organisms through oral, intravenous and respiratory routes, triggering potential toxic effects such as pulmonary toxicity, hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity. In a complex biological environment, the occurrence of metal nanoenzymes toxicity may involve multiple mechanisms, and the mechanism of action and safety need to be thoroughly investigated. In this paper, we intend to describe the research progress on metal nanoenzymes through an overview of their properties, antibacterial mechanisms, biotoxicity and applications in the prevention and treatment of oral plaque biofilm-related diseases, which may provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of these diseases.

Uso de Índices Aterogênicos como Métodos de Avaliação das Doenças Ateroscleróticas Clínicas / Use of Atherogenic Indices as Assessment Methods of Clinical Atherosclerotic Diseases

Resumo Fundamento A busca por métodos clinicamente úteis de avaliação de doenças ateroscleróticas, com boa acurácia, de baixo custo, sem invasividade e de fácil manejo, há anos vem sendo estimulada. Dessa forma, os índices aterogênicos avaliados deste estudo podem se encaixar nesta demanda crescente. Objetivos Avaliar o potencial dos índices aterogênicos como métodos de avaliação de pacientes portadores de aterosclerose clínica. Métodos Estudo transversal de centro único, por meio do qual foram avaliados os índices de Castelli I e II, índice aterogênico plasmático (IAP), índice de combinação de lipoproteínas e a variação do índice de perfusão periférica entre 90 e 120 segundos após um estímulo vasodilatador endotélio-dependente (ΔIPP90-120) na predição de aterosclerose. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. Resultados A amostra foi composta por 298 indivíduos com idade média de 63,0 ± 16,1 anos, dos quais 57,4% eram mulheres. Comparações pareadas da análise curva ROC dos índices que alcançaram área sob a curva (ASC) > 0,6 mostram que ΔIPP90-120 e IAP foram superiores aos demais índices, sem diferenças observadas entre si (diferença entre ASC = 0,056; IC95% -0,003-0,115). Ademais, tanto a ΔIPP90-120 [odds ratio (OR) 9,58; IC95% 4,71-19,46] quanto o IAP (OR 5,35; IC95% 2,30-12,45) foram preditores independentes de aterosclerose clínica. Conclusões O IAP e ΔIPP90-120 apresentaram melhor acurácia para discriminar aterosclerose clínica. Além disso, foram preditores independentes de aterosclerose clínica, evidenciando uma possibilidade promissora para o desenvolvimento de estratégias preventivas e de controle para doenças cardiovasculares. Tratam-se, portanto, de marcadores adequados para estudos multicêntricos do ponto de vista de praticidade, custo e validade externa.

Abstract Background The search for clinically useful methods to assess atherosclerotic diseases (ASCVD) with good accuracy, low cost, non-invasiveness, and easy handling has been stimulated for years. Thus, the atherogenic indices evaluated in this study may fit this growing demand. Objectives To assess the potential of atherogenic indices to evaluate patients with clinical atherosclerosis. Methods Single-center cross-sectional study, through which the Castelli I and II indices, the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), the lipoprotein combine index, and the variation in the peripheral perfusion index between 90 and 120 seconds after an endothelium-dependent (ΔPI90-120) vasodilator stimulus were evaluated in the prediction of atherosclerosis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The sample consisted of 298 individuals with an average age of 63.0±16.1 years, of which 57.4% were women. Paired comparisons of the ROC curve analysis of the indices that reached the area under the curve (AUC) > 0.6 show that ΔPI90-120 and AIP were superior to other indices, and no differences were observed between them (difference between AUC = 0.056; 95%CI -0.003-0.115). Furthermore, both the ΔPI90-120 [odds ratio (OR) 9.58; 95%CI 4.71-19.46)] and AIP (OR 5.35; 95%CI 2.30-12.45) were independent predictors of clinical atherosclerosis. Conclusions The AIP and ΔPI90-120 represented better accuracy in discriminating clinical ASCVD. Moreover, they were independent predictors of clinical ASCVD, evidencing a promising possibility for developing preventive and control strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, they are markers for multicenter studies from the point of view of practicality, low cost, and external validity.

The past, present and future of Alzheimer's disease - part 1: the past / O passado, presente e futuro da doença de Alzheimer - parte 1: o passado

Abstract Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) was described in 1907, and since then it changed from a relatively rare condition to one of the most prevalent diseases. Objective To describe the evolution of the notions of dementias and AD, and to investigate the reasons for the increase in scientific interest in AD. Methods A historical analysis was carried out on knowledge about dementia, the site of mental activity, the relationships between brain diseases and mental activity, and on the advances in research about AD, since its discovery until the publication of the amyloid cascade hypothesis in 1992. A search was carried out in the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) for scientific articles that included the terms dementia or AD over 50 years, from 1972 to 2021. Results The scientific research on AD increased from 615 papers with the term AD in the first decade (1972-1981), to 100,028 papers in the last decade (2012-2021): an increase of 162.6 times whereas publications with the term dementia increased 28.6 times in the same period. In the 1960s and 1970s, a consensus was reached that AD is responsible for the majority of cases of dementia previously known as senile dementia. In the 1980s, beta-amyloid peptide was identified in the core of the senile plaque, hyperphosphorylated tau protein was found in neurofibrillary tangles, and a mutation was discovered in a hereditary form of AD. Conclusion The expansion of the concept of AD to include senile dementia, and the discoveries that occurred in the 1980s greatly expanded research in AD.

Resumo Antecedentes A doença de Alzheimer (DA) foi descrita em 1907 e, desde então, deixou de ser relativamente rara para se tornar uma das doenças mais prevalentes. Objetivo Descrever a evolução das noções sobre demências e DA e investigar as razões do aumento do interesse científico pela DA. Métodos Foi realizada uma análise histórica dos conhecimentos sobre demência, o local da atividade mental, as relações entre doenças cerebrais e a atividade mental, e sobre os avanços na pesquisa sobre a DA, desde a sua descoberta até a publicação da hipótese da cascata amiloide em 1992. Foi realizada uma busca na Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina dos Estados Unidos da América (PubMed) por artigos científicos que incluíssem os termos demência ou DA nos 50 anos, de 1972 a 2021. Resultados A pesquisa científica sobre DA aumentou de 615 artigos com o termo doença de Alzheimer na primeira década (1972-1981), para 100.028 artigos na última década (2012-2021): um aumento de 162,6 vezes enquanto as publicações com o termo demência aumentaram 28,6 vezes no mesmo período. Nas décadas de 1960 e 1970, chegou-se a um consenso de que a DA é responsável pela maioria dos casos de demência, anteriormente conhecida como demência senil. Na década de 1980, o peptídeo beta-amiloide foi identificado no núcleo da placa senil, a proteína tau hiperfosforilada foi encontrada em emaranhados neurofibrilares e uma mutação foi descoberta em uma forma hereditária de DA. Conclusão A expansão do conceito de DA para incluir a demência senil e as descobertas ocorridas na década de 1980 ampliaram enormemente a pesquisa em DA.

The use of medicinal plants for the treatment of psoriasis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that presents as scaly patches on the skin that affects about 3% of the world's population. Adherence to treatment and discrimination against people are common problems, adversely impacts quality of life. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the use of medicinal plants as therapeutic adjuvants in the treatment of plaque psoriasis through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in patients with plaque psoriasis was carried out, comparing the efficacy of herbal treatments alone or in association with other therapies. The search was performed in the databases of The Cochrane Library, Lilacs, Medline via PubMed and Embase, only including studies published from 2016 to 2020.The certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) in patients with plaque psoriasis was carried out, comparing the efficacy of herbal treatments alone or in association with other therapies. We comprehensively searched the MEDLINE, Embase, Lilacs and Cochrane Library databases, only including studies published from 2016 to 2020. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Results: Out of 2,268 articles evaluated, only seven RCT were eligible for final analysis. Five of these studies evidenced low risk of bias and a high level of evidence. Limitations: Few RCT of medicinal plants. Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates that medicinal plants may be used as topical or oral products, either alone or combined with other forms of treatment. These products have the potential to greatly improve the quality of life of the patient

Plaque brachytherapy – Radiating positivity

Background: Plaque brachytherapy is an evolving, yet effective globe and vision-sparing modality for the treatment of intraocular tumors by transscleral irradiation of the tumor base with a radioactive implant. The American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) along with the collaboration of the international multicenter Ophthalmic Oncology Task Force (OOTF) was assembled to reach a consensus regarding establishing practice guidelines and setting standards of care for intraocular tumors. The advent of plaque brachytherapy has revolutionized the outcomes of intraocular tumors, thus ensuring globe salvage, reducing morbidity and mortality, and avoiding cosmetic disfigurement. A well-planned dosimetry for plaque brachytherapy results in achieving local tumor control and excellent prognosis. Purpose: This technique provides the advantage of focal radiation, thus eliminating the damage to the adjacent structures, minimal periorbital tissue damage, absence of cosmetic disfigurement owing to lack of retarded bone growth as seen in external beam radiotherapy. Thus, it reduces the risk of metastasis, and with the recent advances, it provides a shorter duration of treatment. Synopsis: In this video, we shall display the concept of plaque brachytherapy, the various types of plaques available, different radiations sources, planning dosimetry and calculations, target disease spectrum, surgical placement, and post-radiation outcomes in terms of local tumor control and prognosis. Highlights: This video highlights the history, basic principles and techniques of plaque brachytherapy and provides an understanding of its applications in the world of ocular oncology.

Limitaciones de los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular en prevención primaria. ¿Una oportunidad para los moduladores de riesgo? / Limitations of cardiovascular risk scores in primary prevention. An opportunity for risk modulators?

RESUMEN Introducción : Los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular tienen limitaciones relacionadas con la calibración, la discriminación y la baja sensibilidad. Se han identificado diferentes "moduladores de riesgo" que permiten mejorar la estratificación del riesgo cardiovascular: placa aterosclerótica carotídea (PAC), puntaje de calcio arterial coronario (pCAC) y lipoproteína(a) [Lp(a)]. Objetivos : 1) determinar la prevalencia de los moduladores de riesgo citados en una población en prevención primaria; 2) determinar la concordancia entre los 2 métodos de detección de aterosclerosis subclínica; 3) establecer qué proporción de pacientes deberían recibir estatinas inicialmente, según su puntaje de riesgo, y posteriormente con el conocimiento de los moduladores de riesgo. Material y métodos : Se incluyeron individuos de 18 a 79 años, que asistieron para una evaluación de riesgo cardiovascular y que no estaban recibiendo tratamiento hipolipemiante. Se calculó el puntaje de riesgo (ASCVD Risk Estimator) en cada paciente. Se evaluó la presencia de PAC, el pCAC y el nivel plasmático de Lp(a). Resultados : Se incluyeron 348 pacientes (edad media 55,6 ± 12,2 años, 45,4% hombres). En la población total, 29,8%, 36,8% y 53,2% de los pacientes mostraron un valor de Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dL, PAC o un pCAC > 0, respectivamente. La prevalencia de PAC y pCAC fue progresivamente mayor según la categoría de riesgo cardiovascular; sin embargo, la proporción de sujetos de bajo riesgo que tenían moduladores de riesgo fue considerable (Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dl: 25,7%; PAC: 22%; pCAC > 0: 33%). En los 60 individuos menores de 45 años la prevalencia de pCAC > 0 y PAC fue de 18,3% y 10%, respectivamente. La concordancia entre los dos métodos para determinar la presencia de ateromatosis subclínica fue discreta (kappa 0,33). La indicación del tratamiento con estatinas aumentó un 31,6% luego de evaluar la presencia de moduladores. Conclusión : La presencia de moduladores de riesgo fue frecuente en esta población en prevención primaria, incluso en sujetos de bajo riesgo o menores de 45 años. La detección de moduladores de riesgo podría mejorar la estratificación inicial y llevar a reconsiderar el tratamiento con estatinas.

ABSTRACT Background : Cardiovascular risk scores have limitations related to calibration, discrimination, and low sensitivity. Different "risk modulators" have been identified to improve cardiovascular risk stratification: carotid atherosclerotic plaque (CAP), coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. Objectives : The aims of this study were: 1) to determine the prevalence of risk modulators mentioned in a primary prevention population; 2) determine the concordance between the 2 methods of detecting subclinical atherosclerosis; and 3) establish which proportion of patients should receive statins according to the initial risk stratification and after being recategorized by screening for risk modulators. Methods : Individuals aged 18 to 79 years who consulted for cardiovascular risk assessment and who were not receiving lipid-lowering treatment were included. The risk score was calculated in each patient using ASCVD Risk Estimator. The presence of CAP, CAC score and Lp(a) level were evaluated. Results : The cohort was made up of 348 patients; mean age was 55.6 ± 12.2 years and 45.4% were men. In the total population, 29.8%, 36.8%, and 53.2% of patients showed Lp(a) value ≥50 mg/dL, CAP, or a CAC score >0, respectively. The prevalence of CAP and CAC score was progressively higher according to the cardiovascular risk category; however, the proportion of low-risk subjects who had risk modulators was considerable (Lp(a) ≥50 mg/dl: 25.7%; CAP: 22%; CAC score >0: 33%). In the 60 subjects <45 years, the prevalence of CAC score >0 and CAP was 18.3% and 10%, respectively. The agreement between the two methods for quantifying subclinical atheromatosis was fair (kappa= 0.33). The indication for statin treatment increased by 31.6% after evaluating the presence of modulators. Conclusion : The presence of risk modulators was common in this population in primary prevention, even in low-risk subjects or < 45 years. Detection of risk modulators could improve initial stratification and lead to reconsideration of statin treatment.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D as a biomarker of vitamin D status in plaque psoriasis and other dermatological diseases: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hypovitaminosis D is a public health problem associated with several chronic inflammatory and immunological diseases, including psoriasis. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with plaque psoriasis. A comparison was made between vitamin D levels in patients with psoriasis and those with other non-inflammatory dermatoses without photosensitivity. In addition, it evaluated the effects of the patients' Fitzpatrick skin phototype and the season of the year on the serum levels of vitamin D. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at an outpatient clinic in a university center in Juiz de Fora (MG), Brazil. METHODS: A review of dermatology patients' demographic data, including skin phototype and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], over 12 months in 2016. RESULTS: This study included 554 patients: 300 patients allocated to the plaque psoriasis group and 254 control patients with other dermatological diseases. Regarding the season of the year, 229, 132, 62, and 131 participants were evaluated in summer, autumn, winter, and spring, respectively. As for the skin phototype, 397, 139, and 18 patients had phototypes III, IV, and V, respectively. The serum levels of 25(OH)D were significantly lower in the psoriasis group (24.91 ± 7.16 ng/mL) than in the control group (30.37 ± 8.14 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Hypovitaminosis D (< 30 ng/mL) was present in 76.66% of patients with psoriasis versus 53.94% of control patients. Vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) was observed in 25% of the patients with psoriasis versus 8.66% in the control group (P < 0.001). The season and patient's skin phototype were independent predictors of serum vitamin D levels.

Evaluation of plaque index, gingival index and oral health-related quality of life in obese patients / Evaluación del índice de placa, índice gingival y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal en pacientes obesos

Obesity is a chronic disease that may be related to caries, periodontitis, xerostomia, and dental erosion, as well as increasing morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the plaque index (Silness & Löe, 1964), the gingival index (Löe & Silness, 1963), and the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in obese patients. The study included 45 extremely obese, 45 obese, and 45 normal-weight individuals between the ages of 18 and 58. The plaque index and gingival index of the individuals were determined by clinical examination by probing. In addition, the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire was used for the OHRQoL. The IBM SPSS Statistic 22.0 software program was used for the statistical evaluation of the study data. The plaque index and gingival index values were statistically higher in obese compared to normal weight individuals (p0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the OHIP-14 total scores of the groups (p>0.05). Increased apparent plaque index and gingival index values in obese patients may adversely affect periodontal health.

La obesidad es una enfermedad crónica que puede estar relacionada con caries, periodontitis, xerostomía y erosión dental, además de aumentar la morbimortalidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el índice de placa, el índice gingival y la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal (CVSB) en pacientes obesos. El estudio incluyó a 45 individuos extremadamente obesos, 45 obesos y 45 de peso normal entre las edades de 18 y 58 años. El índice de placa y el índice gingival de los individuos se determinaron mediante examen clínico y sondaje periodontal. Además, se utilizó el cuestionario Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) para la evaluación CVSB. Se utilizó el programa informático IBM SPSS Statistic 22.0 para la evaluación estadística. Los valores del índice de placa y del índice gingival fueron estadísticamente más altos en obesos en comparación con los individuos de peso normal (p0,05). No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre las puntuaciones totales de OHIP-14 de los grupos (p>0,05). El aumento del índice de placa aparente y los valores del índice gingival en pacientes obesos pueden afectar negativamente la salud periodontal.

m 6A RNA Methylation Decreases Atherosclerotic Vulnerable Plaque Through Inducing T Cells

ABSTRACT Introduction: Knockdown of fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) can induce N6-methyladenosine (m 6A) ribonucleic acid (RNA) methylation. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of m 6A RNA methylation on atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque by FTO knockdown. Methods: A total of 50 New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into pure high-fat group, sham operation group, vulnerable plaque group, empty load group, and FTO knockdown group (10 rabbits/group). Results: Flow cytometry showed that helper T (Th) cells in the FTO knockdown group accounted for a significantly higher proportion of lymphocytes than in the vulnerable plaque group and empty load group (P<0.05). Th cells were screened by cell flow. The level of m 6A RNA methylation in the FTO knockdown group was significantly higher than in the vulnerable plaque group and empty load group (P<0.05). The levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein C were higher at the 12th week than at the 1st week, but the high-density lipoprotein C level was lower at the 12th week than at the 1st week. At the 12th week, the interleukin-7 level was significantly lower in the adeno-associated virus-9 (AVV9)-FTO short hairpin RNA group than in the control and AVV9-green fluorescent protein groups (P<0.001). Conclusion: After successfully establishing a vascular parkinsonism rabbit model, m 6A RNA methylation can decrease Th cells and vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of biologics versus methotrexate in the treatment of severe pediatric plaque psoriasis / 中华皮肤科杂志

Objective:To compare the efficacy and safety of biologics versus methotrexate in the treatment of severe pediatric plaque psoriasis.Methods:A retrospective matched case-control study was carried out. Twenty children with severe plaque psoriasis from Beijing Children′s Hospital, Capital Medical University from June 2016 to November 2021 were included in this study, and the patients treated with biologics (adalimumab or secukinumab) were matched with those treated with methotrexate at a ratio of 1∶1 according to the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score and age. PASI, physician′s global assessment (PGA) , and body surface area (BSA) scores were assessed at weeks 4, 8 and 12 after the start of treatment, and adverse drug reactions were recorded. Statistical analysis was mainly carried out by using Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher′s exact test and generalized estimating equations. Results:At weeks 4 and 8, the proportions of patients achieving PASI75 and PASI90 were significantly higher in the biologics group (PASI75: 7/10, 10/10, PASI90: 5/10, 9/10, respectively) than in the methotrexate group (PASI75: 1/10, 5/10, PASI90: 0, 1/10, respectively; all P < 0.05) , while there was no significant difference between the biologics group and methotrexate group at week 12 (PASI75: 10/10 vs. 8/10, PASI90: 9/10 vs. 4/10, both P > 0.05) . There were no significant differences in the PASI, BSA or PGA scores between the two groups at baseline (all P > 0.05) , while the biologics group showed significantly decreased PASI and BSA scores at weeks 4, 8 and 12, and significantly decreased PGA score at week 8 compared with the methotrexate group (PASI: Z = 2.50, 3.56, 2.63, respectively; BSA: Z = 2.87, 3.57, 2.40, respectively; PGA: Z = 2.81; all P<0.05) . Analysis of changes over time showed that the PASI, PGA and BSA scores in the biologics group significantly decreased at weeks 4, 8 and 12 compared with those at baseline (all P<0.01) ; the PASI and PGA scores significantly decreased at weeks 8 and 12 compared with the corresponding scores at week 4 (all P<0.05) ; however, there were no significant differences in the PASI, PGA or BSA scores between week 12 and 8 (all P>0.05) . In the methotrexate group, the PASI, PGA and BSA scores at weeks 4, 8 and 12 were all significantly lower than the corresponding scores at the previous adjacent time points (all P<0.05) . There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups ( P = 0.650) , and no serious adverse reactions occurred in either group. The main adverse reaction was infection in the biologics group, while infection and elevation of transaminase levels were common in the methotrexate group. Conclusion:Biologics and methotrexate were both effective and safe for the treatment of severe pediatricplaque psoriasis, and biologics facilitated rapider achievement of PASI75 and PASI90 compared with methotrexate.

Clinical application of excimer laser ablation in lower extremity arterial ischemic diseases / 国际外科学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the therapeutic effect of excimer laser ablation (ELA) in the treatment of lower extremity arterial ischemic diseases.Methods:The clinical data of 44 patients with lower extremity ischemic diseases treated with ELA in the People′s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from December 2020 to April 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Among the 44 patients, there were 29 patients in lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO), including 3 patients with femoral artery stent occlusion. 8 patients of diabetes foot (DF) and 7 patients of thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO). Observation indicators include target vascular patency rate, amputation rate, vascular reintervention rate and mortality rate. The measurement data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation ( ± s), one-way analysis of variance was used for inter-group comparison, and paired sample t-test was used for intra-group comparison. The Chi-square test was used for comparison between count data. Results:The success rate of operation was 100% in 44 patients. The rate of major amputation in ASO group was 10.3%, while the other two groups had a major amputation rate of 0. The minor amputation rates of the three groups were 6.9%, 25.0% and 28.6%, respectively. The vascular reintervention rate was 10.3% in ASO group, 12.5% in DF group and 0 in TAO group. The 1-year mortality rate in the ASO group was 10.3%, while the other two groups had a mortality rate of 0. The 2-year mortality rate of the three group were 31.0%, 12.5% and 0, respectively.Conclusion:For the treatment of lower extremity arterial ischemic diseases, ELA is safe and effective, but the curative effect need to further clarify by large sample and long-term clinical follow-up observation.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 and cerebrovascular diseases / 国际脑血管病杂志

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a bone-derived hormone that plays a central role in the regulation of calcium, phosphorus and active vitamin D levels. Recent studies have shown that high FGF23 is associated with cardiocerebrovascular diseases. This article reviews the correlation between FGF23 and cerebrovascular diseases.

Correlation between serum inflammatory markers and carotid plaque and its stability in patients with acute ischemic stroke / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlation between serum inflammatory markers and carotid plaque and its stability in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).Methods:Patients with AIS admitted to Liaocheng Third People’s Hospital from June 2021 to April 2022 were prospectively enrolled. The demographic and relevant clinical data were collected. Color Doppler ultrasound was used to detect carotid artery plaques. The patients were divided into unstable plaque group, stable plaque group and non-plaque group according to plaque characteristics. The levels of serum hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA) and interleukin (IL) -6 were detected and compared. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent risk factors for carotid plaque and its stability. Results:A total of 201 patients with AIS were enrolled, including 87 patients (43.30%) in the non-plaque group, 57 (28.35%) in the stable plaque group, and 57 (28.35%) in the unstable plaque group. The proportion of patients with hypertension and previous stroke history, and hs-CRP, SAA and IL-6 levels in the unstable plaque group was significantly higher than those in the stable plaque group and the non-plaque group (all P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for other confounding factors, the increased IL-6 level (odds ratio [ OR] 1.174, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.049-1.314; P=0.005) was an independent risk factor for the existence of stable plaques, while the previous stroke history ( OR 3.172, 95% CI 1.123-8.957; P=0.029) and the increased IL-6 level ( OR 1.367, 95% CI 1.107-1.687; P=0.004) were the independent risk factors for the existence of unstable plaques. Conclusion:The serum IL-6 level in patients with AIS increase significantly, which is closely associated with the formation and stability of carotid plaques.

Impact of Coronary Plaque on the Precision of Computational Fractional Flow Reserve Derived from CTA / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveThe fractional flow reserve （FFR） computed from coronary computed tomographic （CT） angiograms makes it possible to noninvasively assess coronary artery disease， but the impact of plaque on FFR derived from computed tomography angiography （CTA） is still unknown. The study used invasive FFR as the reference standard to analyze the impact of plaque on coronary computed tomography angiography （CCTA）-based quantitative flow ratio （CT-QFR）. MethodsThe retrospective study included 108 patients with suspected coronary heart disease （CHD） who underwent both CCTA and FFR within 60 days. CCTA images were analyzed by the software. We obtained the CT-QFR of target vessels， perfomed the quantitative and qualitative analyses on target vascular plaques， including total plaque volume （TPV）， plaque burden， calcified plaque volume （CPV）， fibrous plaque volume （FPV）， lipid plaque volume （LPV）， and the presence or absence of high-risk plaque. ResultsAccording to the difference between CT-QFR and FFR at blood vessel level， 137 target vessels of 108 patients were divided into the overestimated group （difference＞0.03， n＝29）， reference group （-0.03≤difference≤0.03， n＝88） and underestimated group （difference＜-0.03， n＝20）. The underestimated group （14.81mm3） presented higher LPV than overestimated group （1.97mm3， P < 0.05）. There was a negative correlation between LPV and the difference （P＜0.05）. ConclusionsWhen CT-QFR is used to estimate hemodynamics of coronary artery stenosis， the presence of lipid plaque may underestimate the virtual FFR.

Application of Biomechanical Stress from Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography in Coronary Plaque Assessment and Prediction of Adverse Cardiovascular Events / 医用生物力学

Long-term exposure to risk factors will lead to coronary atherosclerosis, which will lead to the formation and progression of coronary plaque. Early identification of high-risk plaque characteristics will help prevent plaque rupture or erosion, thus avoiding the occurrence of acute cardiovascular events. Biomechanical stress plays an important role in progression and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. In recent years, non-invasive coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling has made it possible to acquire the corresponding biomechanical stress parameters. These coronary biomechanical stress parameters, especially wall shear stress (WSS), will aid in the development of a more accurate clinical model for predicting plaque progression and major adverse cardiovascular events ( MACE ). In this review, the biomechanical stress and the role of WSS from CCTA in atherosclerosis were introduced, and the researches on the relationship between biomechanical stress from CCTA and coronary artery diseases were discussed.

Pretreatment Effects of Cutting Balloon on Coronary Artery Calcification Based on Finite Element Analysis / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigates the applicability of cutting balloon in the pretreatment of superficial coronary artery calcified lesions, so as to decrease the occurrence of serious consequences in the treatment of calcified lesions. Methods The effect of cutting balloon on calcified plaques with different curvatures, thickness, and length was analyzed using the finite element method, with normal balloon as a control. The thickness of calcified plaque was set to 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm, and the length was set to 2 mm and 4 mm. The calcification degree was set to 120°, 180°, 270°and 360° according to the intravenous ultrasound (IVUS) calcification severity grading, with a total of 16 types of calcified plaques. The brittle fracture module was used to simulate calcification fracture of calcified plaques, and virtual stent implantation was carried out based on pretreatment simulation. The effect of pretreatment was evaluated by calcification fracture condition and stent roundness. Results For superficial calcification lesions, in lesions less than 120°, the balloon could not remove the calcification plaque obstruction, and the stent roundness rate was 82.75%. In 180° calcified lesions with thickness of less than 0.3 mm, the calcification was broken by cutting balloon under 1 215.9 kPa expansion pressure, and the post-stent roundness rate was 74.42%; normal balloon could not cause calcification fracture under safe expansion pressure (1 418.55 kPa). In 270°calcified lesions with thickness less than 0.3 mm, the normal balloon produced 3 fractures under 1 013.25 kPa expansion pressure. The cutting balloon produced 2 fractures under 1 013.25 kPa expansion pressure, and the balloon could not fracture the circular calcified lesions with thickness of 0.3 mm. Conclusions Cutting balloon is recommended for 180°calcified lesions with thickness less than 0.3 mm, the normal balloon is recommended for 270°calcified lesions, and balloon pretreatment is not recommended for annular lesions with thickness greater than 0.3 mm.

Effects of Coronary Artery Lesion Characteristics on Myocardial Ischemia / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigated the effect of stenosis characteristics (vascular elasticity and plaque properties) on myocardial ischemia. Methods An ideal geometric multi-scale coronary stenosis model based on fluid-structure interaction was established, and the fractional flow reserve (FFR) was simulated to evaluate myocardial ischemia. The effects of vascular elastic wall (elastic modulus of 1 MPa) and rigid wall, plaque types (lipid-rich plaque and calcified plaque) and plaque volume on myocardial ischemia were considered separately. Results The FFRCT simulation result of vessels with elastic wall was larger than that with rigid wall under all stenosis situations. The FFRCT of vessels in lipid-rich lesions was higher than that of calcified plaque (P=0.001). The trapezoidal plaque volume was larger than the cosine plaque volume, and the FFRCT of vessels in trapezoidal plaque was smaller than that of cosine plaque (P=0.001). Conclusions Vascular elasticity is a critical factor to simulate vascular hemodynamics. In moderate stenosis, calcified plaques are more likely to induce myocardial ischemia due to the larger luminal deformation and dilation of rich lipid plaque. When the stenosis is constant, the smaller the plaque volume, the higher the FFRCT and the smaller the possibility of myocardial ischemia.