Fasting glucose: a cardiometabolic indicator for subclinical atherosclerosis on excess weight adolescents

Abstract Objective: To build a model based on cardiometabolic indicators that allow the identification of overweight adolescents at higher risk of subclinical atherosclerotic disease (SAD). Methods: Cross-sectional study involving 161 adolescents with a body mass index ≥ + 1 z-Score, aged 10 to 19 years. Carotid intima-media complex thickness (IMT) was evaluated using ultrasound to assess subclinical atherosclerotic disease. Cardiometabolic indicators evaluated included nutritional status, central adiposity, blood pressure, lipidic profile, glycemic profile, as well as age and sex. Data was presented using measures of central tendency and dispersion, as well as absolute and relative frequency. The relationship between IMT measurement (outcome variable) and other variables (independent variables) was assessed using Pearson or Spearman correlation, followed by multiple regression modeling with Gamma distribution to analyze predictors of IMT. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and R software, considering a significance level of 5 %. Results: It was observed that 23.7 % had Carotid thickening, and the prevalence of abnormal fasting glucose was the lowest. Age and fasting glucose were identified as predictors of IMT increase, with IMT decreasing with age by approximately 1 % per year and increasing with glucose by around 0.24 % per mg/dL. Conclusion: The adolescent at higher risk is younger with higher fasting glycemia levels.

A prediction model for coronary artery abnormalities in children with Kawasaki disease older than 5 years

Abstract Objective: Reliably prediction models for coronary artery abnormalities (CAA) in children aged > 5 years with Kawasaki disease (KD) are still lacking. This study aimed to develop a nomogram model for predicting CAA at 4 to 8 weeks of illness in children with KD older than 5 years. Methods: A total of 644 eligible children were randomly assigned to a training cohort (n = 450) and a validation cohort (n = 194). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis was used for optimal predictors selection, and multivariate logistic regression was used to develop a nomogram model based on the selected predictors. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curves, Hosmer-Lemeshow test, Brier score, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to assess model performance. Results: Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, intravenous immunoglobulin resistance, and maximum baseline z-score ≥ 2.5 were identified by LASSO as significant predictors. The model incorporating these variables showed good discrimination and calibration capacities in both training and validation cohorts. The AUC of the training cohort and validation cohort were 0.854 and 0.850, respectively. The DCA confirmed the clinical usefulness of the nomogram model. Conclusions: A novel nomogram model was established to accurately assess the risk of CAA at 4-8 weeks of onset among KD children older than 5 years, which may aid clinical decisionmaking.

Além do Escore GRACE SCA: É Necessário um Modelo Diferente para Homens e Mulheres após IAMCSST? / Beyond the GRACE ACS Score: Do We Need a Different Model for Men and Women after STEMI?

Resumo Fundamento As mulheres, em comparação aos homens, apresentam piores resultados após a síndrome coronariana aguda (SCA). No entanto, ainda não está claro se o sexo feminino em si é um preditor independente de tais eventos adversos. Objetivo Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar a associação entre o sexo feminino e a mortalidade hospitalar após infarto do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). Métodos Conduzimos um estudo de coorte retrospectivo, recrutando pacientes consecutivos com IAMCSST, internados em um hospital terciário de janeiro de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019. Todos os pacientes foram tratados de acordo com as recomendações das diretrizes atuais. Modelos de regressão logística multivariada foram aplicados para avaliar a mortalidade hospitalar utilizando variáveis de GRACE. A precisão do modelo foi avaliada usando o índice c. Um valor de p < 0,05 foi estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Dos 1.678 pacientes com SCA, 709 apresentaram IAMCSST. A população era composta por 36% de mulheres e a idade média era de 61 anos. As mulheres tinham maior idade (63,13 anos vs. 60,53 anos, p = 0,011); apresentavam hipertensão (75,1% vs. 62,4%, p = 0,001), diabetes (42,2% vs. 27,8%, p < 0,001) e hiperlipidemia (34,1% vs. 23,9%, p = 0,004) mais frequentemente; e apresentaram menor probabilidade de serem submetidas a intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP) por acesso radial (23,7% vs. 46,1%, p < 0,001). A taxa de mortalidade hospitalar foi significativamente maior em mulheres (13,2% vs. 5,6%, p = 0,001), e o sexo feminino permaneceu em maior risco de mortalidade hospitalar (OR 2,79, IC de 95% 1,15-6,76, p = 0,023). Um modelo multivariado incluindo idade, sexo, pressão arterial sistólica, parada cardíaca e classe de Killip atingiu 94,1% de precisão na previsão de mortalidade hospitalar, e o índice c foi de 0,85 (IC de 95% 0,77-0,93). Conclusão Após ajuste para os fatores de risco no modelo de previsão do GRACE, as mulheres continuam em maior risco de mortalidade hospitalar.

Abstract Background Women, in comparison to men, experience worse outcomes after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, whether the female sex per se is an independent predictor of such adverse events remains unclear. Objective This study aims to assess the association between the female sex and in-hospital mortality after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study by enrolling consecutive STEMI patients admitted to a tertiary hospital from January 2018 to February 2019. All patients were treated per current guideline recommendations. Multivariable logistic regression models were applied to evaluate in-hospital mortality using GRACE variables. Model accuracy was evaluated using c-index. A p-value < 0.05 was statistically significant. Results Out of the 1678 ACS patients, 709 presented with STEMI. The population consisted of 36% women, and the median age was 61 years. Women were older (63.13 years vs. 60.53 years, p = 0.011); more often presented with hypertension (75.1% vs. 62.4%, p = 0.001), diabetes (42.2% vs. 27.8%, p < 0.001), and hyperlipidemia (34.1% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.004); and were less likely to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via radial access (23.7% vs. 46.1%, p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher in women (13.2% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.001), and the female sex remained at higher risk for in-hospital mortality (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.15-6.76, p = 0.023). A multivariate model including age, sex, systolic blood pressure, cardiac arrest, and Killip class was 94.1% accurate in predicting in-hospital mortality, and the c-index was 0.85 (95% CI 0.77-0.93). Conclusion After adjusting for the risk factors in the GRACE prediction model, women remain at higher risk for in-hospital mortality.

Comparison of Vertebral Artery Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Angiography and Digital Subtraction Angiography in the Diagnosis of Vertebral Artery Stenosis in Patients with Posterior Circulation Ischemia

SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical value of vertebral artery ultrasound (VAU), Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) and Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) on vertebral artery stenosis in patients with posterior circulation ischemia. Seventy-three patients with posterior circulation ischemia underwent vertebral artery ultrasound and magnetic resonance angiography as well as digital subtraction angiography, and the diagnosis of vertebral artery stenosis (VAS) and the degree of stenosis (normal, mild stenosis, moderate stenosis, severe stenosis, and occlusion) were recorded and compared between digital subtraction angiogram and vertebral artery ultrasound and magnetic resonance angiography. The vertebral artery stenosis rates on digital subtraction angiography and vertebral artery ultrasound were 87.30 % (55/63) and 49.20 % (31/63), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant. The rates of vertebral artery stenosis on digital subtraction angiography and, magnetic resonance angiography was 90.38 % (47/52) and 88.46 % (46/ 52), respectively, and the differences was not statistically significant. The sensitivity, accuracy, negative predictive value, and positive predictive value of vertebral artery ultrasound in diagnosing vertebral artery stenosis were 51.35 %, 54.76 %, 18.18 %, and 95.00 %, respectively, lower than those of magnetic resonance angiography, which were 91.89 %, 90.48 %, 57.14 %, and 97.14 %, respectively. Of the noninvasive imaging techniques, vertebral artery ultrasound does not accurately characterize vertebral artery stenosis and its degree of stenosis. Magnetic resonance angiography effectively screens for vertebral artery stenosis and its degree of stenosis, and can be used as a reliable tool for vertebral artery stenosis in posterior circulation cerebral infarction, and can be used in conjunction with digital subtraction angiogram in order to improve diagnostic convenience and accuracy.

El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar el valor clínico de la ecografía de la arteria vertebral (VAU), la angiografía por resonancia magnética (ARM) y la angiografía por sustracción digital (DSA) en la estenosis de la arteria vertebral en pacientes con isquemia de la circulación posterior. A 73 pacientes con isquemia de la circulación posterior se les realizó una ecografía de la arteria vertebral y una angiografía por resonancia magnética, así como una angiografía por sustracción digital, y se les diagnosticó estenosis de la arteria vertebral (EVA) y el grado de estenosis (normal, estenosis leve, estenosis moderada, estenosis grave, y oclusión) se registraron y compararon la angiografía por sustracción digital y la ecografía de la arteria vertebral y la angiografía por resonancia magnética. Las tasas de estenosis de la arteria vertebral en la angiografía por sustracción digital y la ecografía de la arteria vertebral fueron del 87,30 % (55/63) y del 49,20 % (31/63), respectivamente, y la diferencia fue estadísticamente significativa. Las tasas de estenosis de la arteria vertebral en la angiografía por sustracción digital y la angiografía por resonancia magnética fueron del 90,38 % (47/52) y del 88,46 % (46/52), respectivamente, y las diferencias no fueron estadísticamente significativas. La sensibilidad, precisión, valor predictivo negativo y valor predictivo positivo de la ecografía de la arteria vertebral en el diagnóstico de estenosis de la arteria vertebral fueron 51,35 %, 54,76 %, 18,18 % y 95,00 %, respectivamente, inferiores a los de la angiografía por resonancia magnética, que fueron 91,89 %, 90,48 %, 57,14 % y 97,14 %, respectivamente. De las técnicas de imagen no invasivas, la ecografía de la arteria vertebral no caracteriza con precisión la estenosis de la arteria vertebral y su grado de estenosis. La angiografía por resonancia magnética detecta eficazmente la estenosis de la arteria vertebral y su grado de estenosis, y puede usarse como una herramienta confiable para la estenosis de la arteria vertebral en el infarto cerebral de circulación posterior, y puede ser utilizada junto con la angiografía por sustracción digital para mejorar el diagnóstico y la exactitud.

Síndrome de Wilkie como reto diagnóstico en obstrucción intestinal: reporte de caso / Wilkie syndrome as a diagnostic challenge in intestinal obstruction: case report

RESUMEN El síndrome de Wilkie es una patología poco frecuente que genera un cuadro de obstrucción intestinal, debido a la disminución del ángulo aortomesentérico comprometiendo la tercera porción del duodeno. Describimos el caso de una paciente de 18 años de edad, diagnosticada con síndrome de Wilkie, con cuadro clínico de obstrucción intestinal y pérdida de peso. El diagnóstico se realizó con tomografía abdominal. El síndrome de Wilkie es una patología rara, que se vuelve un reto diagnóstico, por presentar un cuadro similar a otras patologías más comunes. Recomendamos que se sospeche ante un cuadro de obstrucción duodenal.

ABSTRACT Wilkie syndrome is a rare pathology that generates intestinal obstruction due to a decrease of the aortomesenteric angle compromising the third portion of the duodenum. We describe a case of an 18-year-old female patient, diagnosed with Wilkie syndrome, with clinical symptoms of intestinal obstruction and weight loss. The diagnosis was made with abdominal CT. Wilkie syndrome is a rare pathology, which becomes a diagnostic challenge because it presents a similar picture to other more common pathologies. We recommend that it should be suspected in the presence of duodenal obstruction.

Modified Tongqiao Huoxuetang Down-regulates PI3K/Akt Pathway to Treat Basilar Artery Dolichoectasia / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo establish a mouse model of basilar artery dolichoectasia （BAD） and explore the mechanism of modified Tongqiao Huoxuetang （JTQHX） in regulating BAD via phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase （PI3K）/protein kinase B （Akt） pathway. MethodSixty C57/BL6 female mice were randomized into sham operation （injected with 10 U·mL-1 inactivate elastase）， model， atorvastatin calcium tablets （2.6 mg·kg·d-1）， and low- and high-dose （crude drug 3.4， 17 g·kg-1·d-1， respectively） JTQHX groups. The mouse model of BAD was established by injection with 10 U·mL-1 elastase. After 14 days of modeling， the sham operation group and model group were administrated with equal volumes of pure water by gavage， and other groups with corresponding drugs for 2 months. The levels of interleukin-6 （IL-6） and calpain （LpA） in the serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Verhoeff 's Van Gieson （EVG） staining was employed to observe the pathological changes of blood vessels. Terminal-deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling （TUNEL） was employed to examine the apoptosis rate of vascular smooth muscle cells （VSMCs）. Image Pro Plus was used to observe and calculate the curvature index， elongation length， percentage increase in vessel diameter， and curvature angle of the basilar artery vessels in mice. Western blot was employed to determine the expression levels of PI3K and Akt in the vascular tissue. ResultCompared with the sham operation group， the model group showed lowered IL-6 level （P<0.01）， no significant change in LpA level， increased apoptosis of VSMCs （P<0.01）， and increased curvature index， elongation length， percentage increase in vessel diameter， and curvature angle （P<0.01）. Furthermore， the modeling up-regulated the protein levels of PI3K and Akt in blood vessels （P<0.01） and aggravated the destruction of the inner elastic layer， atrophy of the muscular layer， and hyaline changes in the connective tissue of the medial membrane of the basilar artery wall. Compared with the model group， 2 months of treatment with JTQHX elevated the IL-6 level （P<0.01）， reduced the apoptosis of VSMCs （P<0.01）， decreased the curvature index， elongation length， percentage increase in vessel diameter， and curvature angle （P<0.05， P<0.01）， and down-regulated the protein levels of PI3K and Akt in blood vessels （P<0.01）. In addition， the treatment alleviated the destruction of the inner elastic layer， atrophy of the muscular layer， and hyaline changes in the connective tissue of the medial membrane of the basilar artery wall. ConclusionJTQHX inhibits the elongation， expansion， and curvature of basilar artery vessels and alleviates the pathological changes by reducing the apoptosis of VSMCs and down-regulating the expression of PI3K/Akt pathway.

Correlation between neonatal retinal hemorrhage and changes in umbilical artery blood gas analysis / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To explore the correlation between neonatal retinal hemorrhage(RH)and changes in umbilical artery blood gas analysis.METHODS: A total of 312 full-term neonates born in our obstetrics department from January 2019 to December 2021 were selected as the study subjects. According to the RetCam III fundus examination results, 245 neonates who did not experience RH were included in the control group, while 67 cases with RH were found to be included in the RH group. In addition, neonates were grouped into I degree group(n=20), II degree group(n=29), and III degree group(n=18)based on the degree of RH. General clinical data and umbilical artery blood gas analysis indicators between the RH group and the control group were compared; the levels of umbilical artery blood gas analysis indicators in neonates with different degrees of RH, the relationship between pH and RH degree, and the influencing factors of neonatal RH were analyzed.RESULTS: There was no obvious difference in maternal age, average gestational week, fetal gender, parity, gestational diabetes, fetal birth weight, and amniotic fluid between the RH group and the control group(all P&#x003E;0.05), while there were obvious differences in delivery methods, gestational hypertension, forceps assisted delivery, neonatal asphyxia, and umbilical cord around the neck(all P&#x003C;0.05). The pH value, arterial blood sample partial pressure(PaO2)and base excess(BE)values of the RH group were obviously lower than those of the control group(all P&#x003C;0.01), while the arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure(PaCO2)was obviously higher than that of the control group(P&#x003C;0.01). There were obvious differences in umbilical artery blood gas analysis indicators among children with different degrees of RH(P&#x003C;0.05), and with the increase of the degree of RH, pH value, PaO2 and BE gradually decreased(P&#x003C;0.05), and PaCO2 gradually increased(P&#x003C;0.05). There was a negative correlation between the degree of RH and the pH of umbilical artery blood gas analysis(rs=-0.593, P&#x003C;0.05). The results of multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that delivery method, gestational hypertension, forceps assisted delivery, neonatal asphyxia, umbilical cord entanglement, pH, PaO2, PaCO2, and BE were all influencing factors for the occurrence of neonatal RH.CONCLUSION: There is a close correlation between neonatal RH and changes in umbilical artery blood gas analysis, and umbilical artery blood gas analysis can be used for the diagnosis of neonatal RH, which can be used to guide clinical treatment.

Learning Curve for Using Endoscopic Saphenous Vein Harvesting in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate the application of endoscopy in obtaining the great saphenous vein （GSV） during coronary artery bypass grafting （CABG） and explore the learning curve， with a particular focus on common challenges encountered during the learning process and their impact on early clinical outcomes. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data from 83 patients who underwent off-pump CABG with endoscopic GSV harvesting at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from July 2013 to April 2014. Patients were categorized into four groups based on the chronological order of their hospitalization： Group A （novice group， n=20）， Group B （proficient group， n=20）， Group C （progressive group， n=20）， and Group D （mature group， n=23）. Differences in perioperative and midterm follow-up outcomes among the groups were analyzed to determine the learning curve period. ResultsThe study population had a mean age of （60.22±8.06） years and a mean body weight of （69.77±11.66） kg. Comorbidities included hypertension （24 cases）， diabetes （26 cases）， and subacute cerebral infarction （14 cases）. The novice group exhibited significantly shorter GSV length-to-harvest time ratio relative to the other three groups （P<0.001） and a significantly higher incidence of main vein damage （P=0.006）. However， there was no statistically significant difference in graft patency at the 1-year follow-up. ConclusionThorough and reliable technical training in endoscopic GSV harvesting is essential to minimize vascular injury caused by novice operators. Approximately 20 cases of hands-on experience and a careful self-analysis of procedural challenges are likely required to achieve proficiency in GSV harvesting.

Predictive Value of Serum Albumin Levels for Coronary Artery Calcification in Patients with Early Chronic Kidney Disease / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo explore the correlation between serum albumin levels and coronary artery calcification （CAC） in patients with early-stage chronic kidney disease （CKD）， as well as the value of serum albumin levels in predicting the incidence and severity of CAC. MethodsThe study included 391 early-stage CKD patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography （CTA） at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between January 2019 and December 2022. Demographic and biochemistry data， as well as the coronary CTA results， were collected. Based on the coronary artery calcification score （CACS）， all patients were divided into non-CAC group （CACS=0， n=184） and CAC group （CACS>0， n=207）. All patients were further divided into 3 groups based on the serum albumin levels： group A （serum albumin levels<35 g/L， n=30）， group B （35 g/L≤ serum albumin levels< 40 g/L， n=198） and group C （serum albumin levels≥ 40 g/L， n=163）. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between serum albumin levels and CAC in early-stage CKD patients. Differences in CAC among groups were analyzed by using post-hoc multiple comparisons and ordinal logistic regression model analysis. ResultsPatients with CAC had significantly lower serum albumin levels than those without CAC （P<0.05）. There was a negative correlation between serum albumin levels and CACS in early-stage CKD patients （P<0.01）， as serum albumin decreased in levels， CAC increased in severity. ConclusionsOur study shows that early-stage CKD patients with lower serum albumin levels have a higher incidence of CAC. Low serum albumin level is an independent risk factor for CAC progression.

Clinical application and strategy of total-arterial coronary artery bypass grafting / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Since the advent of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), the selection of bypass conduits has always been one of the most controversial topics in this field. Arterial conduits have received extensive attention due to their excellent biological features and high patency. In recent years, the application of arterial grafting and total arterial grafting in China keeps increasing in recent years, but there is still a gap compared to the Europe and America. Previous clinical studies have indicated the benefits of the total arterial grafting in terms of patency and long-term outcomes, but the advantage of multiple arterial grafting over other procedures is still in need to be confirmed with high-quality randomized controlled trials. This article reviews the clinical application and strategy of total-arterial CABG, aiming to provide objective reference for future clinical research and application.

Effects of Tao Hong Si Wu decoction on IncRNA expression in rats with occlusion of middle cerebral artery / 中国药理学通报

Aim To screen and study the expression of long non-coding RNA (IncRNA) in rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) with MCAO treated with Tao Hong Si Wu decoction (THSWD) and determine the possible molecular mechanism of THSWD in treating MCAO rats. Methods Three cerebral hemisphere tissue were obtained from the control group, MCAO group and MCAO + THSWD group. RNA sequencing technology was used to identify IncRNA gene expression in the three groups. THSWD-regulated IncRNA genes were identified, and then a THSWD-regu-lated IncRNA-mRNA network was constructed. MCODE plug-in units were used to identify the modules of IncRNA-mRNA networks. Gene ontology (GO) and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) were used to analyze the enriched biological functions and signaling pathways. Cis- and trans-regulatory genes for THSWD-regulated IncRNAs were identified. Reverse transcription real-time quantitative pol-ymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to verify IncRNAs. Molecular docking was used to identify IncRNA-mRNA network targets and pathway-associated proteins. Results In MCAO rats, THSWD regulated a total of 302 IncRNAs. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that some core IncRNAs might play an important role in the treatment of MCAO rats with THSWD, and we further found that THSWD might also treat MCAO rats through multiple pathways such as IncRNA-mRNA network and network-enriched complement and coagulation cascades. The results of molecular docking showed that the active compounds gallic acid and a-mygdalin of THSWD had a certain binding ability to protein targets. Conclusions THSWD can protect the brain injury of MCAO rats through IncRNA, which may provide new insights for the treatment of ischemic stroke with THSWD.

Dynamic changes in cytoskeletal elements following acute cerebral ischemia and reperfusion in rats / 中国药理学通报

Aim To investigate the dynamic time-course changes in neuronal cytoskeleton after acute ischemia and reperfusion in rats. Methods Reperfusion was performedin rats by blocking the middle cerebralarteryfor 90 min, then therats wereobserved and collected at different time points. The brain damage wasobserved by Nissl staining,and neurobehavioural function was evaluated with neurological deficit score and forelimb placement test. The cellular changes in the alternations of cytoskeletal elements including microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) and neurofilament heavy chain (NF-H) were observed by immunohistochemistry staining and Western blot. Impaired axons, dendrites and cytoskeletal alternations were detected by electron microscope. Results Brain damage and neurobehavioural function were gradually aggravated with the prolongation of reperfusion. Brain damage appeared earlier and more severe in striatum than in cortex. Moreover, decreased MAP2-related and increased NF-H-related immunoreactive intensities were found in the ischemic areas. Impaired cytoskeletal arrangement and reduced dense were indicated. Damaged cytoskeletal components such as microtubules and neurofilament arrangement, decreased axonal filament density, and swelled dendrites were observed after cerebral ischemia reperfusion by ultrastructural observations. Conclusions Different brain regions have diverse tolerance to ischemia-reperfusion injury. Major elements of neuronal cytoskeleton show dynamic responses to ischemia and reperfusion, which may further contribute to brain damage and neurological impairment following MCAO and reperfusion.

Effect of menthol on hypobaric hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in mice and its mechanism / 中国药理学通报

Aim To study the effect of menthol on hypobaric hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension and explore the underlying mechanism in mice. Methods 10 to 12 weeks old wild type (WT) mice and TRPM8 gene knockout (TRPM8

Predictive value of systolic pulmonary artery pressure on autonomic nerve excitation in 186 patients with valvular disease: A prospective study / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective To explore the predictive value of systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP) on autonomic nerve excitation in patients with valvular disease, so as to provide reference for the formulation of clinical intervention plans. Methods The clinical data of patients with valvular disease who received surgical treatment in the General Hospital of Northern Theater Command from August 28, 2020 to February 3, 2021 were prospectively collected. According to the standard deviation of normal-to-normal R-R intervals (SDNN) of the heart rate variability (HRV) of the long-range dynamic electrocardiogram (ECG) 7 days before the operation, the patients were divided into three groups: a sympathetic dominant (SE) group (SDNN≤50 ms), a balance group (50 ms<SDNN<100 ms) and a parasympathetic dominant (PSE) group (SDNN≥100 ms). The correlation between the changes of echocardiographic indexes and autonomic nerve excitation among the groups and the predictive values were analyzed. Results A total of 186 patients were enrolled, including 108 males and 78 females aged 55.92±11.99 years. There were 26 patients in the SE group, 104 patients in the balance group, and 56 patients in the PSE group. The left anteroposterior diameter (LAD), left ventricular end diastolic inner diameter, ratio of peak E to peak A of mitral valve (Em/Am), left ventricular end diastolic volume, left ventricular end systolic volume and SPAP in the SE group were higher than those in the balance group (P<0.05), while peak A of tricuspid valve (At) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were lower than those in the balance group (P<0.05). The LAD and Em/Am in the balance group were significantly higher than those in the PSE group (P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that patients in the SE group had lower At (right atrial systolic function declines), lower LVEF and higher SPAP than those in the balance group (P=0.04, 0.04 and 0.00). When HRV increased and parasympathetic nerve was excited in patients with valvular disease, Em/Am decreased (left atrial function and/or left ventricular diastolic function declined) with a normal LAD. Pearson analysis showed that there was a linear negative correlation between SPAP and SDNN, with a coefficient of −0.348, indicating that the higher SPAP, the lower HRV and the more excited sympathetic nerve. Receiver operating characteristic curve showed that when SPAP≥45.50 mm Hg (1 mm Hg=0.133 kPa), the sensitivity and specificity of sympathetic excitation in patients with valvular disease were 84.60% and 63.70%, respectively. Conclusion Parasympathetic excitation is an early manifestation of the disease, often accompanied by decreased left atrial function and/or left ventricular diastolic function. Sympathetic nerve excitation can be accompanied by the increase of SPAP and the decrease of left ventricular and right atrial systolic function. SPAP has a unique predictive value for the prediction of autonomic nerve excitation in patients with valvular disease.

Individualized surgical treatment strategy for children with anomalous aortic origin of coronary artery / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective To summarize and explore the individualized surgical treatment strategy and prognosis of anomalous aortic origin of coronary artery (AAOCA). Methods The clinical data of children with AAOCA admitted to Shanghai Children's Medical Center from March 2018 to August 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Results A total of 17 children were enrolled, including 13 males and 4 females, with a median age of 88 (44, 138) months and a median weight of 25 (18, 29) kg. All patients received operations. The methods of coronary artery management included coronary artery decapitation in 9 patients, coronary artery transplantation in 5 patients and coronary artery perforation in 3 patients. One patient with severe cardiac insufficiency (left ventricular ejection fraction 15%) received mechanical circulatory assistance after the operation for 12 days. No death occurred in the early postoperative period, the average ICU stay time was 4.3±3.0 d, and the total hospital stay was 14.4±6.1 d. All the children received regular anticoagulation therapy for 3 months after discharge. The median follow-up time was 15 (13, 24) months. All patients received regular anticoagulation therapy for 3 months after discharge. No clinical symptoms such as chest pain and syncope occurred again. The cardiac function grade was significantly improved compared with that before operation. Imaging examination showed that the coronary artery blood flow on the operation side was unobstructed, and no restenosis occurred. Conclusion AAOCA is easy to induce myocardial ischemia and even sudden cardiac death. Once diagnosed, operation should be carried out as soon as possible. According to the anatomic characteristics of coronary artery, the early effect of individualized surgery is satisfactory, and the symptoms of the children are significantly improved and the cardiac function recovers well in the mid-term follow-up.

Effects of roxadustat versus recombination human erythropoietin on coronary artery calcification in maintenance hemodialysis patients / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of roxadustat and recombination human erythropoietin （rHuEPO） on coronary artery calcification in maintenance hemodialysis （MHD） patients. METHODS In retrospective analysis， MHD patients prescribed roxadustat in the Blood Purification Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from April 2019 to June 2021 were selected as the ROX group （56 patients）， and MHD patients prescribed rHuEPO during the same period were selected as the EPO group （60 patients）， and follow-up observation was conducted for 12 months. The differences in laboratory index， coronary artery calcification score （CACS）， and cardiac ultrasound parameters before and after treatment as well as the occurrence of cardiac and cerebrovascular adverse events during follow-up period were compared between the two groups. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in CACS between the two groups before and after treatment （P＞0.05）； but the difference of CACS in the ROX group was significantly lower than the EPO group （P＜0.05）. There was no statistically significant difference in cardiac ultrasound parameters and laboratory indexes between the two groups before and after treatment （P＜0.05）. The incidence of apoplexy and myocardial infarction in the ROX group was lower than that in the EPO group （P＜0.05）， and there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of hospitalization due to heart failure between the two groups （P＞0.05）. CONCLUSIONS Compared with rHuEPO， roxadustat may have a positive effect on delaying coronary artery calcification in MHD patients and may be beneficial in reducing the incidence of myocardial infarction and apoplexy in MHD patients.

Pathogenesis and Traditional Chinese Medicine Prevention and Treatment Strategy of Refractory Angina Based on Theory of Stasis and Toxin / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Refractory angina is characterized by recurrent and persistent angina with a duration of not less than three months， which is related to reversible ischemia and hypoxia caused by coronary stenosis and obstruction. It mainly involves obstructive coronary artery disease and non-obstructive coronary artery disease with coronary artery spasm and coronary microvascular dysfunction. “Stasis and toxin” play an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The pathogenesis of stasis and toxin is stubborn filthy turbidity featured by slow accumulation and sudden onset，and rapid changes，which coincides with the characteristics of refractory angina which is complex and changeable，prolonged and difficult to cure. The pathogenesis of refractory angina involves a combination of underlying deficiency and excessive manifestation， with "stasis and toxin" playing a crucial role as an important pathological factor in the whole process of refractory angina. Traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） employs a holistic approach known as "activating blood circulation and removing toxins"， which is supplemented by various methods to tonify Qi and warm Yang， nourish the kidneys and invigorate the spleen， clear heat and transform phlegm. This approach applies anti-inflammatory measures， regulates lipid metabolism， inhibits oxidative stress and thrombus formation， protects endothelial function in blood vessels， as well as establishes collateral circulation for the prevention and treatment of refractory angina. Therefore，based on the theory of "stasis and toxin"，combined with TCM theory and modern medical research，this paper discusses the pathogenesis of refractory angina and the prevention and treatment strategy of TCM，and elucidates the reasons for the difficulty in curing refractory angina and the relationship between refractory angina and common angina pectoris，coronary microvascular dysfunction，coronary artery spasm and obstructive coronary artery disease，hoping to provide certain theoretical basis and clinical ideas for the prevention and treatment of refractory angina with TCM.

Progress in the treatment of central retinal artery occlusion / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

Central retinal artery occlusion(CRAO)refers to occlusion of the central retinal artery(CRA), which acts as the primary blood supply to the inner neurosensory retina, and leads to an acute loss of vision and permanent visual disability. The natural history of visual prognosis in CRAO is generally poor. Despite a variety of treatment options have been studied, such as ocular massage, anterior chamber paracentesis, hyperbaric oxygen therapy(HBOT)and intra-arterial infusion of tissue plasminogen activator(tPA), but there is currently no evidence-based management strategies for the treatment of CRAO. Furthermore, the efficacy of all available managements is debatable and many have uncertain risks. This review will offer a summary of the currently known treatment options for CRAO and probe into their safety and efficacy on the prognosis of CRAO.

Establishment of pharmaceutical care model for lower extremity artery disease based on patients’disease self-management ability / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To construct the integrated pharmaceutical care model of in-hospital pharmaceutical care+out-hospital pharmacy outpatient service for patients with lower extremity artery disease （LEAD）， so as to improve patients’ disease self- management ability， and the efficacy and safety of therapy. METHODS The in-hospital pharmaceutical care and out-hospital pharmacy outpatient service model was constructed for LEAD patients， including pharmaceutical evaluation， self-management ability education， and pharmacy follow-up， to perform long-term management of patients. Totally 65 LEAD patients admitted to the vascular surgery department of our hospital， receiving pharmacist management， from September， 2021 to December， 2022 were selected as the study objects， and pharmacists conducted in-hospital pharmaceutical care+continuous out-patient management. The efficacy indicators， safety indicators， and patients’s disease self-management ability indicators were compared before and after 3 months of pharmacist management. RESULTS After 3 months of pharmacists’ participation in the management of 65 patients， Fontaine stage decreased in 55 patients， there was the significant difference in Fontaine stage before and after management （P＜ 0.001）. The proportion of patients who completely followed the guidelines for medication increased from 63.1% to 96.9%； the incidence of small bleeding was reduced by 7.7% after pharmacists’ management. The scores of Morisky medication compliance and patients’ disease self-management ability were higher than 3 months ago （P＜0.001）. Patient proportion with “good” medical satisfaction increased by 18.4%. CONCLUSIONS The in-hospital pharmaceutical care and out-hospital pharmacy outpatient service model of LEAD patients can effectively improve patients’ disease self-management ability， and improve the efficacy and safety of therapy.