Progress on internal exposure to typical environmental persistent organic pollutants and cancer / 环境与职业医学

Environmental pollution is closely linked to the occurrence and development of cancer. Chemical carcinogens are the most important environmental factors causing cancer in humans. Among them, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are characterized by their widespread distribution, persistence, and bioaccumulation. Research on the carcinogenic effects of POPs has received considerable attention in recent years. This article reviewed the internal exposure, association with cancer risk, and potential carcinogenic mechanisms of five typical classes of POPs in the environment, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), and short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs). These five types of POPs have distinct carcinogenic mechanisms, including interfering with cell proliferation cycle, altering epigenetic inheritance, promoting oxidative stress, altering energy metabolism, and affecting immune function. The development of cancer is the result of interaction between intrinsic genetic factors and external environmental factors. In addition to focusing on how environmental POPs affect the genetic material of organisms, it is also important to consider their effects on the tumor microenvironment, including tumor immunity and angiogenesis. Understanding these effects is crucial for guiding future efforts in pollution control and precision medicine in cancer treatment.

Insertion of a totally implantable venous access port in a patient with isolated persistent left superior vena cava: A case report / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) with absence of right superior vena cava (SVC), also known as isolated PLSVC, is a relatively rare type of congenital body venous malformation. Isolated PLSVC is asymptomatic, however, it will bring clinical difficulties to the implantation of the totally implantable venous access port (TIVAP). We reported a 41 years, male patient with esophageal cancer, who needed neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy. Through doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) and vascular 3D-reconstruction, we found him to be a patient with PLSVC with absence of right SVC before the insertion of TIVAP. Hence, we chose the left approach in which the needle was inserted into the sternocleidomastoid clavicular head lateral notch in left supraclavicular fossa as the puncture point. The depth of the catheter tip from the root of the neck to the puncture point was 21.5 cm and the catheter tip was located at the junction of the PLSVC and the right atrium, at the dilated coronary sinus. The procedure was successful and the patient received expected neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy after operation, and anticoagulant therapy was performed to prevent thrombosis in coronary sinus and superior vena cava. There was no major catheter-related complication during the period of TIVAP.

Evaluation of the therapeutic effect of autologous serum on neurotrophic keratopathy with persistent corneal epithelial defect / 中华实验眼科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the outcomes of autologous serum eye drops on persistent corneal epithelial defect caused by neurotrophic keratopathy (NK).Methods:An observational case series study was performed.Twenty patients (20 eyes) diagnosed with NK and persistent corneal epithelial defect were enrolled in Beijing Tongren Hospital from January 2020 to January 2021.The affected eyes were graded according to the severity of the lesion and received individualized comprehensive treatment with domestic autologous serum eye drops as the main therapy.The healing time of the corneal epithelial defect after treatment was recorded.The diameter and area of the defect were marked by corneal fluorescein staining.Changes in the diameter and area of the defect before treatment and at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 weeks after treatment were observed by slit lamp microscopy at 10×.Logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) visual acuity was recorded with a standard logarithmic visual chart before treatment and at 1, 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after treatment.Changes in corneal nerve fiber distribution and silk length of corneal perception were assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry, respectively, before treatment and at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after treatment.Influences of corneal defect characteristics on the healing time were analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis.This study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki.The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Beijing Tongren Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University (No.TRECKY2021-110). Written informed consent was obtained from each subject.Results:The corneal epithelial defect was 5.00 (4.00, 5.75) mm in diameter and 15.50 (12.00, 20.00) mm 2 in area before treatment.There were 45% (9/20) with corneal stroma edema and 35% (7/20) with endothelial fold.One diabetic patient with uveitis had a corneal epithelial defect area greater than 8 mm×6 mm and accepted additional corneal clearance and amniotic membrane transplantation after 2 weeks of autologous serum eye drops application.The other 19 patients received autologous serum eye drops therapy.All eyes showed complete recovery.The pretreatment duration of autologous serum eye drops ranged from 2 weeks to 3 months, with a mean of (39.55±25.34) days.The repair time of corneal epithelium ranged from 12 to 42 days, with a mean of (19.68±9.25) days.There were statistically significant differences in corneal defect diameter and area between before and after treatment ( χ2=43.130, 28.265; both at P<0.001). Corneal defect area and diameter decreased at various time points after treatment compared to before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in LogMAR visual acuity between before and after treatment ( χ2=84.229, P<0.001). LogMAR visual acuity improved at 1, 2, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after treatment compared to pretreatment, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in silk length of corneal perception between before and after treatment ( χ2=55.295, P<0.001). Silk length of corneal perception improved at 4, 12 and 24 weeks compared to pretreatment, and the differences were statistically significant (all at P<0.05). Baseline corneal defect severity grade was positively correlated with healing time ( β=10.55, P=0.032). Corneal defect diameter and area had no influence on the healing time ( β=-2.02, P=0.501; β=0.49, P=0.199). Conclusions:Autologous serum eye drop therapy is safe and effective for persistent corneal defects caused by NK.Re-application of autologous serum eye drops is still effective in individual patients with recurrent corneal defects after discontinuation of serum treatment.It can be combined with surgery for intractable cases.

Clinical analysis of low forceps midwifery assistance in persistent occiput posterior dystocia / 中国现代医生

@#Objective To discuss the clinical effect of low forceps midwifery in persistent occiput posterior dystocia.Methods A retrospective analysis of 120 parturients with persistent occiput posterior dystocia were admitted to Yangzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital from October 2020 to March 2023.70 cases with lower uterine cesarean section were in group A.20 cases with lower forceps midwifery were in group B.30 cases with spontaneous deliveries were in group C.Results The postoperative hospitalization time and hospitalization cost of group A were significantly higher than those of group B and group C(P<0.05).In both groups A and B,the intrapartum bleeding volume was higher than that in group C(P<0.05),but there was no significant difference in groups A and B(P>0.05);There was no significant difference in birth canal injury between groups B and C(P>0.05).Neonatal birth injuries were not significantly different among the three groups(P>0.05).Conclusion It's important for us to assist the pregnant woman of persistent occiput posterior dystocia in a natural delivery with proper management.The application of low forceps delivery midwifery can reduce the postoperative hospital stay and hospitalization cost,and does not increase the incidence of birth canal injury and neonatal birth injury.

Perfil cognitivo en el Mareo Perceptual Postural Persistente: Implicancias sobre su fisiopatología como disfunción cognitiva viso-vestibular superior / Cognitive profile in Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness: Implications on its pathophysiology as a superior visio-vestibular cognitive dysfunction

Introducción: El mareo perceptual postural persistente (MPPP) es, probablemente, la causa más prevalente de mareo crónico. Sin embargo, su fisiopatología es aún motivo de duda y debate. En el presente artículo, proponemos que el MPPP se caracteriza por disfunciones cognitivas de orden superior, al punto de diferenciarse en estas dimensiones de controles sanos y pacientes con patologías vestibulares no-MPPP. Objetivo: Determinar si pacientes con MPPP presentan alteraciones discriminantes respecto a grupos controles, en ámbitos de atención, memoria de trabajo visoespacial, planificación espacial, funciones ejecutivas y rendimiento cognitivo global. Material y Método: Estudio descriptivo transversal con sujetos de entre 18 y 65 años, reclutados de una unidad de otoneurología ambulatoria. Se aplicaron pruebas Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), tarea de retención de dígitos, Trail Making Test, Corsi Block-Tapping Task y Torre de Londres. Resultados: 30 pacientes fueron categorizados en tres grupos: grupo MPPP (n = 14), grupo vestibular no-MPPP (n = 11) y grupo control (n = 5). El grupo MPPP exhibió un rendimiento significativamente inferior en pruebas de planificación, velocidad de procesamiento y funciones ejecutivas en ámbitos visoespaciales, mientras que en atención y memoria visoespacial no hubo diferencias entre grupos. Conclusión: El MPPP podría caracterizarse por una disfunción de procesos cognitivos superiores de construcción espacial de mayor complejidad, respetando funciones visoespaciales de menor orden como la memoria de trabajo. Estos hallazgos ofrecen nuevas luces para comprender la fisiopatología del MPPP y sus implicancias clínicas.

Introduction: Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is probably the most prevalent cause of chronic dizziness. However, its pathophysiology is still a matter of uncertainty and debate. In this article, we propose that PPPD is characterized by higher-order cognitive dysfunctions, to the point of differentiating it from healthy controls and patients with non-PPPD vestibular pathologies. Aim: To determine whether patients with PPPD exhibit discriminant alterations compared to control groups in the areas of attention, visuospatial working memory, spatial planning, executive functions, and global cognitive performance. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with subjects between the ages of 18 and 65 years, recruited from an outpatient otoneurology unit. Tests included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), digit retention task, Trail Making Test, Corsi Block-Tapping Task, and the Tower of London. Results: 30 patients were categorized into three groups: PPPD group (n = 14), non-PPPD vestibular group (n = 11), and control group (n = 5). The PPPD group showed significantly lower performance on tests of planning, processing speed, and executive function in visuospatial domains, while there were no differences between groups in attention and visuospatial memory. Conclusion: PPPD may be characterized by dysfunction of higher-order cognitive processes related to spatial construction of greater complexity, while sparing lower-order visuospatial functions such as working memory. These findings offer new insights into the pathophysiology of PPPD and its clinical implications.

Insulina colirio en afecciones de la superficie ocular / Insulin Eye Drops for Eye Surface Conditions

Cuando se produce una erosión corneal y fracasa la epitelización corneal surgen los defectos epiteliales corneales persistentes, cuyo tratamiento es un desafío para el oftalmólogo. Es muy frecuente el fracaso del tratamiento convencional por lo que se mantiene el interés en la búsqueda de otros factores de crecimiento para la cicatrización epitelial tales como los colirios de insulina. La insulina es un péptido estrechamente relacionado con el factor de crecimiento similar a la insulina 1. Su mecanismo de acción no es bien comprendido, sin embargo se acepta que es capaz de inducir migración y proliferación de las células epiteliales corneales, por lo que promueve y acelera la reepitelización de defectos epiteliales persistentes refractarios a tratamiento. La ausencia de una presentación comercial de colirio de insulina, hace necesario conocer su estabilidad físicoquímica y microbiológica así como la eficacia, efectividad y seguridad del colirio de insulina a diferentes concentraciones. De ahí la motivación para realizar una revisión de la literatura existente sobre el empleo del colirio de insulina en el tratamiento del defecto epitelial corneal persistente. Se realizó la búsqueda en bases de datos electrónicas como PubMed Central, EBSCO, Clinical Trials.gov, MEDLINE OVID, EMBASE OVID con el objeto de identificar artículos relacionados con el tema(AU)

When corneal erosion occurs and corneal epithelialization fails, persistent corneal epithelial defects arise, whose treatment is a challenge for the ophthalmologist. The failure of conventional treatment is very frequent; therefore, there is still interest in the search for other growth factors for epithelial healing, such as insulin eye drops. Insulin is a peptide closely related to insulin-like growth factor 1. Its mechanism of action is not well understood; however, it is accepted that it is capable of inducing migration and proliferation of corneal epithelial cells, thereby promoting and accelerating reepithelialization of persistent epithelial defects refractory to treatment. The absence of a commercial presentation for insulin eye drops makes it necessary to know its physicochemical and microbiological stability, as well as the efficacy, effectiveness and safety of insulin eye drops at different concentrations; hence the motivation to review the existing literature on the use of insulin eye drops in the treatment of persistent corneal epithelial defects. The search was carried out in electronic databases such as PubMed Central, EBSCO, Clinical Trials.gov, MEDLINE OVID, EMBASE OVID, with the aim of identifying relevant articles related to the topic(AU)

Insulina tópica en el tratamiento del defecto epitelial persistente posúlcera corneal grave / Topical insulin for treating persistent post-severe corneal ulcer epithelial defect

El tratamiento del defecto epitelial refractario es un reto y está sujeto al desarrollo de estudios preclínicos y clínicos con el objetivo de obtener tratamientos eficaces, entre los que emerge la insulina tópica. El objetivo del presente artículo fue describir la respuesta cicatrizal del epitelio corneal bajo tratamiento con colirio de insulina. Se presentan dos pacientes con diagnóstico de defecto epitelial persistente posúlcera corneal. Se indicó insulina tópica una gota cada 6 horas, con evolución hacia la epitelización corneal total a los 10 días de iniciado el tratamiento. Se sugiere el mecanismo por el cual la insulina promueve la cicatrización corneal al lograr la restauración de los nervios corneales y favorecer la migración de células epiteliales. En ambos casos el colirio de insulina logró la promover la cicatrización epitelial total de la córnea por lo que se es útil en el tratamiento de defecto epitelial persistente(AU)

The treatment of refractory epithelial defect is a challenge and depends upon the development of preclinical or clinical studies aimed at obtaining effective treatments, among which topical insulin emerges. The objective of this article was to describe the healing response of the corneal epithelium under treatment with insulin eye drops. The cases are presented of two patients with a diagnosis of persistent post-corneal ulcer epithelial defect. Topical insulin was prescribed at one drop every six hours, with evolution towards total corneal epithelialization ten days after the treatment started. The mechanism is suggested by which insulin promotes corneal healing, thus restoring corneal nerves and favoring epithelial cell migration. In both cases, the insulin eye drops were able to promote total epithelial healing of the cornea, making it useful in the treatment of persistent epithelial defect(AU)

Transcutaneous injection of triamcinolone acetonide for persistent glottic granulation after laser microsurgery

Abstract Objective The aim of study was to demonstrate that transcutaneous intralesional injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide (TA) under fibrolaryngoscopy could be an option for persistent granulation after Transoral Laser Microsurgery (TLM) in glottic cancer patients. Methods We recruited 32 patients, who had conservative treatment but failed. 20 patients accepted TA injection monthly until the granulation disappeared or did not shrink further. 12 patients chose to closely monitor. Results For the 20 patients, 17 (85.0%) patients' granulations completely disappeared. 3 (15.0%) patients' granulations had reduced 80%. For the 12 patients, 3 (25.0%) patients' granulations disappeared but 9 (75%) patients' granulations did not have an obvious change. Recurrence was not observed. Conclusion Our experience showed that transcutaneous intralesional TA injection for persistent granulation after TLM through cricothyroid membrane is an efficient, security, harmless and low recurrence method. Especially suitable for huge granulation which blocks the glottis and recur after a second operation.

Autologous serum eye drops in dry eye disease: Preferred practice pattern guidelines

Autologous serum eye drops provide lubrication and promote epithelial healing. They have been successfully used in the management of ocular surface disorders such as dry eye disease, persistent epithelial defects and neurotrophic keratopathy for many decades. A great deal of variation in the methods of preparation of autologous serum eye drops, the end concentration and the duration of use exists in published literature. In this review, simplified recommendations for preparation, transport, storage and use of autologous serum are described. Evidence for the use of this modality in aqueous deficient dry eye disease is summarized, along with expertise-based rationale.

Serpin-A3 is Associated with Persistent Albuminuria in Adolescents with Secondary Podocytopathy, in a Region with High Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Origin

Abstract Background: The state of Aguascalientes, Mexico, has been recognized as a chronic kidney disease hotspot. Screening studies have revealed a high prevalence of persistent albuminuria (pA), histologically characterized by glomerulomegaly, and incomplete podocyte fusion, probably associated with oligonephrony. To date, urinary biomarkers have not been explored in this population. Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the presence of potential biomarkers of early renal injury in patients with pA (pACR) and that correspond with the characteristic nephropathy profile that prevails in this entity. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, analytical, and comparative study. Four groups were recruited: adolescents aged 10-17 years with pACR, isolated albuminuria (iACR), no albuminuria (negative control), and adults with biopsy-confirmed glomerulopathy (positive control). Urinary excretion of SerpinA3, heat-shock protein-72 (HSP-72), podocalyxin (PCX), and nephrin was evaluated in urine samples. SerpinA3 and HSP-72 were analyzed by Western blot, and PCX and nephrin were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The mean GFR in the pACR group was 113.4 mL/min/1.73m2 and differed significantly only from that of the positive control group (65.1 mL/min/1.73m2). The mean albuminuria value in the pACR group was 48.9 mg/g. SerpinA3 concentration differed between groups (0.08 vs. 0.25 ng/mL, p < 0.001): it was significantly higher in the pACR group compared to the negative controls (p = 0.037). Conclusion: SerpinA3 was significantly associated with pA and could become a biomarker of early kidney injury. Further investigations are required to determine whether SerpinA3 precedes the development of albuminuria and its pathogenic role.

Hemofagocitose em cultura de sangue periférico precedendo hemofagocitose em biópsia de medula óssea na síndrome hemofagocítica secundária / Hemophagocytosis in peripheral blood culture preceding hemophagocytosis in bone marrow biopsy in secondary hemophagocytic syndrome

A síndrome hemofagocítica é determinada por desregulação do sistema imunológico, caracterizada por ativação excessiva de macrófagos, resultando em fagocitose de células sanguíneas normais no fígado, baço e medula óssea. Pode ser primária (genética) ou secundária (adquirida). Em adultos quase sempre é secundária, tendo infecções, neoplasias e doenças autoimunes como frequentes desencadeadores. Entre as principais manifestações da síndrome estão febre prolongada e hepatoesplenomegalia. O diagnóstico até o momento é confirmado pelo achado de hemofagocitose em biópsia de medula óssea. Entretanto, é descrito que a biópsia de medula óssea é normal nos primeiros dias de manifestações da síndrome. O presente relato tem como objetivo mostrar a observação de hemofagocitose em cultura de células de sangue periférico de paciente de 29 anos precedendo a hemofagocitose em biópsia de medula óssea. A paciente apresentava diferentes infecções, com grave comprometimento do estado geral e sem melhora com o tratamento das infecções. O achado laboratorial permitiu o tratamento precoce da síndrome hemofagocítica e a melhora da paciente. No presente relato a técnica utilizada está descrita detalhadamente para que possa ser reproduzida, além de ser apresentada uma revisão não sistemática da literatura sobre a síndrome.

Hemophagocytic syndrome, which is caused by dysregulation of the immune system, is characterized by excessive macrophage activation, resulting in phagocytosis of normal blood cells in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. It can be primary (genetic) or secondary (acquired). In adults, it is almost always secondary, with infections, neoplasms, and autoimmune diseases as frequent triggers. The main manifestations of this syndrome are prolonged fever and hepatosplenomegaly. Currently, diagnosis is confirmed through finding hemophagocytosis in a bone marrow biopsy. However, it has been reported that bone marrow biopsy results are still normal on the first day the syndrome manifests. Here we report observing hemophagocytosis in cultured peripheral blood cells from a 29-year-old patient prior to finding hemophagocytosis in bone marrow biopsy. The patient had various infections and a poor general condition, which did not improve after treating the infections. The laboratory findings allowed early treatment of hemophagocytic syndrome and the patient improved. We describe our technique in detail so it can be reproduced, and we provide a non-systematic review of the literature on the syndrome.

Comparison study of clinical features between persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous and congenital fibrovascular pupillary membrane / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To analyze the similarities and differences of the clinical features between persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous(PHPV)and congenital fibrovascular pupillary membrane(CFPM).METHODS: Retrospectively analyze the ocular biometric parameters, clinical features and morphological changes in children with PHPV(PHPV group)and CFPM(CFPM group)who received surgery at the department of ophthalmology, Xijing Hospital from March 2006 to December 2021.RESULTS: The study included 56 cases(61 eyes)of PHPV and 24 cases(25 eyes)of CFPM. There were no differences on the gender and age of onset between PHPV and CFPM, and both of them were mainly unilaterally affected, with the ratio of 91% and 96%. Children with PHPV and cataract combined with other complications and ocular developmental abnormalities. CFPM was mainly presented different degrees of blockage and morphological abnormalities of pupillary area. In unilateral cases of PHPV and CFPM, the anterior chamber depth(ACD)of affected eyes was smaller than that of the fellow eyes, and in subgroups with age of operation ≤24mo, the axial length(AL)of affected eyes was smaller than that of the fellow eyes(P&#x003C;0.05). The corneal diameter(CD)of the affected eyes in PHPV group was smaller and the intraocular pressure(IOP)was higher than those of the fellow eyes(all P&#x003C;0.05); while there were no significant differences on CD and IOP between affected eyes and the fellow eyes in CFPM group(P&#x0026;#x003E;0.05). The ACD of affected eyes in PHPV group was significantly smaller than that of CFPM group(P&#x003C;0.05). The fibrovascular membrane in PHPV group was located in the posterior part of the lens and vitreous cavity; while the fibrovascular membrane in CFPM group was located between the iris and the anterior capsule of the lens, rarely involving the lens.CONCLUSION: PHPV and CFPM had the similar clinical features, suggesting that they may belong to the different variants of persistent fetal vasculature(PFV). However, PHPV had a wider range of lesions and more complex conditions.

Influencing factors for persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome in patients with severe acute pancreatitis and establishment of a predictive model / 临床肝胆病杂志

Objective To investigate the influencing factors for persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome (PICS) in patients with severe acute pancreatitis(SAP), and to establish a predictive model. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 163 patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit and the emergency intensive care unit due to SAP in The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University from May 2012 to May 2022, and according to the diagnostic criteria for PICS, these patients were divided into PICS group (65 SAP patients with PICS) and non-PICS group (98 SAP patients without PICS). The independent-samples t test was used for comparison of normally distributed continuous data between two groups, and the Mann-Whitney U rank sum test was used for comparison of non-normally distributed continuous data between two groups; the chi-square test or the Fisher's exact test was used for comparison of categorical data between two groups. Variance inflation factor and correlation matrix heatmap were used to evaluate multicollinearity between variables, and Lasso regression and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify independent risk factors and establish a nomogram predictive model. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the calibration curve, and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test were used for the internal validation of the model, and the decision curve was used to evaluate the clinical practicability of the model. Results The univariate analysis showed that there were significant differences between the PICS group and the non-PICS group in mean arterial pressure, hemoglobin, hematocrit (HCT), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, Glasgow coma score, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Ⅱ (APACHE Ⅱ) score, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, mechanical ventilation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury (AKI), acute liver injury, hypovolemic shock, sepsis, intra-abdominal hypertension, intra-abdominal hemorrhage, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (all P < 0.05). The Lasso regression analysis showed that related predictive variables included PLR, HCT, APACHE Ⅱ, SOFA, mechanical ventilation, AKI, hypovolemic shock, and intra-abdominal hypertension, and the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that PLR (odds ratio [ OR ]=1.006, P < 0.05), mechanical ventilation ( OR =4.324, P < 0.05), AKI ( OR =3.432, P < 0.05), and hypovolemic shock ( OR = 6.910, P < 0.05) were independent risk factors for PICS in patients with SAP. Model fitting was performed for the above factors, and bootstrap internal validation showed that the nomogram model had an area under the ROC curve of 0.874 (95% confidence interval: 0.822-0.925); the calibration curve of the model was close to the reference curve, and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test showed that the model was well fitted ( χ 2 =8.895, P =0.351). The decision curve analysis showed that the predictive model had good clinical practicability. Conclusion PLR, mechanical ventilation, AKI, and hypovolemic shock are independent risk factors for PICS in patients with SAP, and the nomogram model established has good discriminatory ability, calibration, and clinical practicability.

Correlation between persistent high-risk human papillomavirus infection and vaginal microecology and cervical lesions / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective To investigate the correlation between persistent and non-persistent HPV infection and vaginal microecology and cervical lesions, and to provide the basis for HPV prevention and treatment. Methods In this prospective study, 229 female patients with high-risk type (HR-HPV) were selected for cervical cytology and vaginal microecological examination in the gynecological outpatient department of Baise Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2018 to June 2021. The patients were followed up for 1 year to detect persistent HR-HPV infection. The relationship between HR-HPV persistent infection and vaginal microecology and cervical lesions was analyzed using the HPV-negative group as a control. Results Among 229 patients with HR-HPV, there were 109 patients with persistent HR-HPV infection and 120 patients with non-persistent HR-HPV infection in 1-year follow-up, and the incidence of persistent HR-HPV infection was 47.6%. In the HR-HPV persistent and non-persistent infection and HPV-negative groups, the bacterial vaginal incidence was 20.2%, 15.0% and 8.6%, respectively; vulvovaginal candidiasis was 19.3%, 13.3% and 7.9%, respectively; trichomoniasis vaginitis was 12.8%, 9.2% and 4.5%, respectively; mixed infection was 10.1%, 6.7% and 2.7%; H2O2 detection rate was 24.8%, 18.3% and 12.0%,the positive rate of pH value was 52.3%, 40.8% and 36.4%, and microecological normal detection rate was 22.9%, 32.7% and 40.2%, respectively. There were significant differences among the three groups (χ2=10.634, 10.522, 9.010, 9.374, 10.054, 8.268, P<0.01). In the HR-HPV persistent and non-persistent infection groups, the rates of atypical squamous cell detection were 12.8% and 10.0%, and 8.3% and 4.2% for low-grade squamous cell lesions, and 4.6% and 1.7% for high-grade squamous cell carcinoma, 2.8% and 0 for squamous cell carcinoma, respectively. There was no significant difference in the composition of atypical squamous cells between the two groups (χ2=4.358, P>0.05), there were significant differences in the composition of low-grade, high-grade and squamous cell carcinoma (χ2=11.472, 12.685, 11.378, P<0.01). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that the presence or extent of HPV infection was positively correlated with bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonal vaginitis and mixed infection (P<0.05), positively correlated with H2O2, sialdase, leucocyte esterase,pH positive and positive for all four items (P<0.05), negatively correlated with microecology (P<0.01), positively correlated with low grade, high grade and squamous cell carcinoma (P<0.01), and not significantly correlated with atypical squamous cell carcinoma (P>0.05). Conclusion Persistent cervical HPV infection is an important factor of dysregulation in vaginal microecology and aggravates the degree of dysregulation in vaginal microecology, which is related to the development of cervical lesions.

The specificity of body surface temperature of relevant back-shu points in patients with chronic persistent asthma based on infrared thermal imaging technology / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To detect the body surface temperature of the relevant back-shu points in patients with chronic persistent asthma by infrared thermal imaging technology, and observe the specific changes of the body surface temperature of the relevant back-shu points under the condition of lung disease.@*METHODS@#Forty-five patients with chronic persistent asthma (observation group) and 45 healthy subjects (control group) were selected. The body surface temperature of bilateral Feishu (BL 13), Geshu (BL 17), Pishu (BL 20) and Shenshu (BL 23) were measured by BK-MT02A medical infrared thermography.@*RESULTS@#The body surface temperature of bilateral Feishu (BL 13), Geshu (BL 17), Pishu (BL 20) and Shenshu (BL 23) in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.01, P<0.05). The body surface temperature of bilateral Feishu (BL 13) and Geshu (BL 17) was higher than that of ipsilateral Pishu (BL 20) and Shenshu (BL 23) in the two groups (P<0.01, P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in body surface temperature between ipsilateral Feishu (BL 13) and Geshu (BL 17), between ipsilateral Pishu (BL 20) and Shenshu (BL 23) (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The pathological increase of body surface temperature of Feishu (BL 13), Geshu (BL 17), Pishu (BL 20) and Shenshu (BL 23) in patients with chronic persistent asthma indicates that above acupoints have specificity in reflecting lung diseases. The Feishu (BL 13) and Geshu (BL 17), which have significantly increased body surface temperature, not only provide objective basis for the pathological pathogenesis of "deficiency in origin and excess in symptom" in patients with chronic persistent asthma, but also reflect the different expressions of different acupoints on the same meridian for the lung diseases.

Characterization of persistent marine bacterial community profiles isolated from long-term Kappaphycus alvarezii cultures in a closed cultivation system using 16S rDNA analysis

Aims@#The study aims to investigate the bacterial community profiles on the surface of red algae (Kappaphycus alvarezii) and persistent bacteria that can adapt to long-term cultivation in a closed circulation system.@*Methodology and results@#Kappaphycus alvarezii explants were cultured in a controlled laboratory setting for 30 days to investigate related bacterial adaptability to controlled culture conditions. Bacterial isolates associated with seedlings were subjected to 16S rDNA amplification and sequencing, followed by the construction of a phylogenetic tree using MEGA X software. The results show distinct microbial composition between the first and 30th days. The derived phylogenetic tree features three dominant phyla: Proteobacteria (Vibrio and Thalassospira), Pseudomonadota (Pseudoalteromonas, Alteromonas, Grimontia, Ruegeria, Phaebacter and Bacterioplanes) and Firmicutes (Bacillus). A comparative examination of these two bacterial groups (day 1 and day 30) reveals evidence of persistent marine bacteria, such as the genera Vibrio, Pseudoalteromonas, Alteromonas, Phaaebacter and Bacterioplanes, that successfully adapt to long-term cultivation within closed circulation systems.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of bacterial ecology in the controlled red algae cultivation environment and also provide valuable insights into the optimization of an ideal closed cultivation system for sustainable K. alvarezii production, benefiting the seaweed industry.

Evaluation of right heart function in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn by two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To assess the altered right atrial(RA) function using two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging(2D-STI) in patients with persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn(PPHN), and investigate the diagnostic value of different right heart strain parameters in PPHN.Methods:Ultrasound images of 42 newborns with clinically confirmed diagnosis of PPHN in the neonatal intensive care unit of Shenzhen Children′s Hospital (median gestational age 37 + 1 weeks, median age 6 d) and 30 normal newborns (control group, median gestational age 37 + 3 weeks, median age 6.5 d) from January 2020 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed, all with gestational age ≥34 gestational weeks. 2D-STI was applied to evaluate RA function: RA strain(RA LS) and area change fraction(RA FAC), where RA LS included RA reservoir strain (εs), RA conduit strain (εe) and RA active contract strain (εa), while evaluating right ventricle(RV) function: RV global longitudinal strain(RV GLS), RV FAC, etc. And the degree of pulmonary artery pressure(PAP) was assessed by tricuspid regurgitation velocity(TRV). The above parameters were compared between the PPHN group and the control group, and the correlations between RA function parameters, RV function parameters and PAP in PPHN group were analyzed. The area under ROC curve (AUC) was used to compare the accuracy of each parameter in the evaluation of impaired cardiac function in PPHN patients. Results:Compared with the control group, RA function (εs, εe, εa and RA FAC) were impaired in PPHN patients (all P<0.05). εs was positively correlated with RV GLS, RA FAC ( r=0.494, 0.356, both P<0.05) and negatively correlated with minimum right atrial area (RAA min), pulmonary artery diameter (PAD), and tricuspid annular internal diameter ( rs=-0.285, r=-0.495, -0.396; both P<0.05); εe was negatively correlated with PAD ( rs=-0.256, P<0.05); εa was positively correlated with RV GLS ( r=0.499, P<0.05) and negatively correlated with PAD and tricuspid annular internal diameter ( r=-0.390, -0.380; both P<0.05); RA FAC was positively correlated with RV GLS ( r=0.365, P<0.05) and negatively correlated with PAD and tricuspid annular internal diameter ( r=-0.439, -0.328; both P<0.05). RA LS and RA FAC had no correlations with TRV-estimated PAP ( P>0.05). ROC analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity of εs<40.50% for diagnosing PPHN was 0.905 and 0.800, respectively, with an AUC of 0.929; the sensitivity and specificity of RV GLS<18.55% for diagnosing PPHN were 0.905 and 0.900, respectively, with an AUC of 0.963; εs combined with RV GLS was the best indicator for early detection of right heart functional impairment in PPHN, with sensitivity and specificity of 0.905 and 1.000, respectively, and AUC was 0.985. Conclusions:RA function and RV function are both impaired in PPHN patients. εs combined with RV GLS is the best indicator for early assessment of right heart function impairment and diagnosis of PPHN.

Application value of four-dimensional automic left atrial quantitation in evaluating left atrial fibrosis in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the degree of left atrial fibrosis in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation(AF) using four-dimensional automic left atrial quantitation(4D Auto LAQ).Methods:A total of 60 patients with persistent AF who underwent transcatheter radiofrequency ablation in the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University from March 2022 to March 2023 were included. Patients were grouped according to the low-voltage area (mild<5%, moderate 5%-20%, severe>20%). General clinical data, conventional echocardiogram parameters, left atrial strain and related parameters of each group were compared. The relevant factors were obtained by Logistic regression analysis. The factor with the highest accuracy and its cut-off value was obtained by the ROC curve.Results:Sixty patients with persistent atrial fibrillation, were divided into mild low-voltage group(22 cases), moderate low-voltage group(20 cases), and severe low-voltage group(18 cases). There were statistical differences in gender, CHA2DS2-VASc score, peak value of early diastolic velocity of mitral inflow/average peak value of early diastolic tissue Doppler velocity of mitral annulus (E/e′), left atrial diameter (LAD), left atrial volume index (LAVI), left atrial maximal volume (LAVmax), left atrial minimal volume (LAVmin), left atrial total emptying fraction (LAEF), left atrial reservoir longitudinal strain (LASr), left atrial reservoir circumferential strain (LASr-c), left atrial myocardial work (LA MW, LA MW-c), left atrial stiffness (LA stiffness, LA stiffness-c) among the 3 groups(all P<0.05). The LASr had the highest correlation with low voltage area ( rs=-0.814, P<0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that CHA2DS2-VASc, LAD, LAVI, LAVmax, LAVmin, LAEF, LASr, LASr-C, LA MW, LA MW-C, LA stiffness and LA stiffness-c could all predict the low voltage area(all P<0.05). The LA stiffness had the highest AUC (0.952). The cut-off value of severe low voltage was 1.15, the sensitivity was 94.4%, and the specificity was 83.3%. Conclusions:4D Auto LAQ can be used to evaluate the degree of left atrial fibrosis. The correlation between LA stiffness and substrate voltage mapping is the highest.

A case report of guidewire entrapment in Chiari network involving persistent left superior vena cava / 中华肾脏病杂志

The article reports a rare case of isolated persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) found during the catheterization of a dialysis catheter in an end-stage renal disease patient and the occurrence of guidewire entrapment in Chiari net. The patient was scheduled to have emergency dialysis due to end-stage renal disease and acute left heart failure. And a tunnel-cuffed catheter (TCC) for dialysis insertion was planned. Isolated PLSVC was found firstly by the imaging process. Then the guidewire was entrapped at the right atrium in the further operation. During the operation of the guidewire, the guidewire loosened and withdrawn with a fine fiber, which was considered a possibility of Chiari net. In the follow-up after one week, the TCC worked well, and the heart function improved after dialysis.

Neuroimaging research status of persistent postural-perceptual dizziness / 中风与神经疾病杂志

@#Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness （PPPD） is a common clinical chronic dizziness disease，with persistent dizziness，instability，or non-rotational vertigo as the main symptom. It may be aggravated by postural changes，active/passive movements，and exposure to complex visual environments. At present，it is believed that the occurrence of PPPD may be related to the failure of postural control readaptation and abnormal cortical multisensory integration，but the specific pathophysiological mechanism is not clear. In recent years，with the continuous application of neuroimaging technology in the field of vertigo diseases，it has been found that in patients with PPPD，the brain structure，function，and connectivity related to vestibular multisensory and spatial orientation are decreased，while the function and connectivity related to visual processing are enhanced. At the same time，various psychiatric factors （such as anxiety，depression，and neuroticism） as well as triggers may be involved in regulating the brain structure of people with PPPD，which helps explain the differences in outcomes between studies. The above neuroimaging findings are helpful for the early diagnosis and treatment of PPPD. Therefore，this paper reviews the neuroimaging studies of PPPD to provide a reference for explaining the pathophysiological mechanism of PPPD.