Search

Abstract Background For adolescents, abnormal dipping patterns in blood pressure (BP) are associated with early-onset organ damage and a higher risk of cardiovascular disorders in adulthood. Obesity is one of the most common reasons for abnormal BP dipping in young people. However, it is unknown whether the severity of obesity is associated with BP dipping status and whether this association is sex-dependent. Methods 499 participants between 12 and 17 years old with overweight or obesity underwent ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) between April 2018 and January 2019 in Beijing and Baoding. Participants were grouped by body mass index (BMI) into overweight (BMI 85th–95th percentile), obese (BMI ≥ 95th percentile) and severely obese (BMI ≥ 120% of 95th percentile or ≥ 35 kg/m2) groups. Non-dipping was defined as a

Due to the difficulty of studying nonlinear quantum systems and the unique composition of Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) systems, BECs face significant difficulties in solving dynamic analysis and chaotic control problems. Therefore, Hartree–Fock mean field theory is introduced to study the chaotic characteristics, control, and synchronization issues of BEC systems loaded on optical lattices. First, the stability and chaos of BECs in optical lattices were analyzed. Subsequently, constant shift method and activation control were introduced based on the Gross–Pitaevskii equation to achieve control and synchronization of the BEC system. Second, based on the Lyapunov exponent theory, offset parameters are added to BEC chaotic control to achieve control of particle density. Finally, based on the stability theory of linear systems, a control term is introduced to achieve variable analysis of the system’s drive–response system, ensuring that chaotic systems with different initial conditions can still achieve good synchronization and anti-synchronization control. The chaotic problem of BEC system was analyzed using numerical and theoretical methods in the experiment. The effect of adjusting the parameters of the BEC system under the constant shift method is significant. The system exhibits a chaotic state under the Lyapunov exponent, which is mainly concentrated between [3.4, 4.5], demonstrating good system stability. When the offset constant range is [4.21, 5.67], the maximum Lyapunov exponent value is below 0. In the problem of chaotic synchronization, adding activation control causes the system’s time series to exhibit anti-synchronization with spatiotemporal variable variation, while adding control terms leads the system to tend towards synchronization and anti-synchronization with time evolution. The analysis of chaotic control problems in BEC systems can provide reference value and theoretical basis for the dynamic research of quantum physics and related nonlinear systems.

A combined process of air flotation/iron carbon microelectrolysis /Fenton+ hydrolytic acidification +A/O+ contact oxidation is used to treat pesticide wastewater . The results show that，when the influent COD，NH3-N and toluene concentrations are 7 866，56 and 53 mg/L，the treated effluent COD，NH3-N and toluene concentrations are 435，13 and 0.4 mg/L，respectively. The average removal rates of COD，NH3-N and toluene were 94.5%，81% and 99.2%，respectively. The drainage index reached the Class B standard of Quality Standard for Sewage Discharge into Urban Sewers （GB/T 31962—2015），and the process efficiency was reliable，which can provide reference for the design and construction of similar pesticide wastewater treatment.

This paper summarized the practice of psycho-cardiology nursing for 1 patient with hypertension of deficiency of kidney Yang type. Key issues of nursing included illness condition observation, blood pressure monitoring, medication nursing, Traditional Chinese Medicine characteristic nursing, psychological evaluation and psycho-cardiology education. Under the guidance of Psycho-Cardiology nursing concept, the integrated nursing of traditional Chinese and western medicine were carried out to relieve the clinical symptoms and mental stress, and improve the patient’s adherence to the treatment. (本文总结了1例肾阳虚型高血压患者的“双心护理”体会。护理要点包括病情观察、血压监测、用药护理、中医特色护理等, 并在此基础上给予心理评估、“双心”教育等干预措施。基于“双心护理”模式开展中西医结合护理, 有助于改善患者症状, 缓解心理压力, 提高治疗依从性, 促进患者康复。)

To obtain high-frequency SAW devices, the interdigital transducer electrodes are prepared narrower and the electrode spacing is smaller, which leads to higher cost and lower reliability of high-frequency SAW devices. In this paper, two other interdigital electrode parallel layout structures are designed based on the traditional IDT flat layer layout structure, and the influence of the three different IDT electrode layout structures on the SAW device of LiNbO3/Diamond/Si multilayer structure is studied by COMSOL Multiphysics. The results show that the designed multi-layer structure SAW device can successfully excite SAW with superior performance, and the parallel layout structure of the interdigital electrode can reduce the lateral size of SAW device, which provides a new idea and direction for the miniaturization of the SAW devices.

Abstract Background Cardiometabolic multi-morbidity (CMM) is emerging as a global healthcare challenge and a pressing public health concern worldwide. Previous studies have principally focused on identifying risk factors for individual cardiometabolic diseases, but reliable predictors of CMM have not been identified. In the present study, we aimed to characterize the relationship of triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index with the incidence of CMM. Methods We enrolled 7,970 participants from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and placed them into groups according to quartile of TyG index. The endpoint of interest was CMM, defined as the presence of at least two of the following: stroke, heart disease, and diabetes mellitus. Cox regression models and multivariable-adjusted restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves were used to evaluate the relationship between TyG index and CMM. Results In total, 638 (8.01%) incident cases of CMM were recorded among the participants who did not have CMM at baseline (2011) during a median follow-up of 84 months (interquartile range, 20‒87 months). The incidences of CMM for the participants in quartiles (Q) 1–4 of TyG index were 4.22%, 6.12%, 8.78%, and 12.60%, respectively. A fully adjusted Cox model showed that TyG index was closely associated with the incidence of CMM: the hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] for each 1.0-unit increment in TyG index for CMM was 1.54 (1.29–1.84); and the HRs (95% CIs) for Q3 and Q4 (Q1 as reference) of the TyG index for CMM were 1.41 (1.05–1.90) and 1.61 (1.18–2.20), respectively. The association of TyG index with the incidence of CMM was present in almost all the subgroups, and persisted in the sensitivity analyses and additional analyses. Multivariable-adjusted RCS analysis revealed a significant dose-response relationship of TyG index with the risk of CMM (overall P

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been widely used for subsurface detection and testing. Numerical simulations of GPR signal are commonly performed to aid the interpretation of subsurface structures and targets in complex environments. To enhance the accuracy of GPR simulations on heterogeneous medium, this paper proposes a hybrid modeling method that combines the discrete element method with a component fusion strategy (DEM–CFS). Taking the asphalt pavement as an example, three 3D stochastic models with distinctly different porosities are constructed by the DEM–CFS method. Firstly, the DEM is utilized to establish the spatial distribution of random coarse aggregates. Then, the component fusion strategy is employed to integrate other components into the coarse aggregate skeleton. Finally, the GPR response of the constructed asphalt models is simulated using the finite-difference time-domain method. The proposed modeling method is validated through both numerical and laboratory experiments and demonstrates high precision. The results indicate that the proposed modeling method has high accuracy in predicting the dielectric constant of heterogeneous media, as generated models are closely aligned with real-world conditions.

BackgroundThe clinical prognosis of mitral valve surgery at morning, afternoon, and evening is not yet clear. The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of different time periods of surgery in the morning, afternoon and evening on the short-term and long-term results of mitral valve surgery.MethodsFrom January 2018 to December 2020, 947 patients with mitral valve surgery in our department were selected. These patients were divided into 3 groups according to the starting time of surgery. Morning group (operation start time 8:00–10:30, n = 231), afternoon group (operation start time 12:00–14:30, n = 543), and evening group (operation start time 17:30–20:00, n = 173). The short-term and long-term results of the three groups were compared.ResultsThere were no significant difference in the long-term mortality, long-term risk of stroke and reoperation. And there were no significant difference in in-hospital outcomes, including mortality, stroke, cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross clamp time, mitral valve repair convert to mitral valve replacement, number of aortic cross clamp ≥2 times, unplanned secondary surgery during hospitalization (including thoracotomy hemostasis, thoracotomy exploration, redo mitral valve surgery, and debridement), intra-aortic balloon pump, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, continuous renal replacement therapy, mechanical ventilation time, and intensive care unit length of stay.ConclusionThere is no significant difference in the risk of short-term and long-term survival and adverse events after mitral valve surgery at different time periods in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Mitral valve surgery at night is safe.

Mounting evidence demonstrates that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) promotes anti-inflammatory molecules and inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines in endothelial cells (ECs). This study aims to investigate the favorable action of H2S on endothelial function in senescence by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules. Senescent ECs exhibit a reduction in H 2S, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ (PPARδ), coupled with increased inflammatory molecules, sodium glucose transporter type 2 (SGLT2) and phosphorylation of STAT3, which could be reversed by the administration of a slow but sustained release agent of H2S, GYY4137. Decreased production of eNOS and upregulated p-STAT3 and SGLT2 levels in senescent ECs are reversed by replenishment of the SGLT2 inhibitor EMPA and the PPARδ agonist GW501516. The PPARδ antagonist GSK0660 attenuates eNOS expression and increases the production of p-STAT3 and SGLT2. However, supplementation with GYY4137 has no beneficial effect on GSK0660-treated ECs. GYY4137, GW501516 and EMPA preserve endothelial-dependent relaxation (EDR) in D-gal-treated aortae, while GSK0660 destroys aortic relaxation even with GYY4137 supplementation. In summary, senescent ECs manifest aggravated the expressions of the inflammatory molecules SGLT2 and p-STAT3 and decreased the productions of PPARδ, eNOS and CSE. H2S ameliorates endothelial dysfunction through the anti-inflammatory effect of the PPARδ/SGLT2/p-STAT3 signaling pathway in senescent ECs and may be a potential therapeutic target for anti-ageing treatment.

Abstract Background Abdominal obesity has long been considered as a crucial risk factor of stroke. Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI), a novel surrogate indicator of abdominal obesity, has been confirmed as a better predictor for coronary heart disease than other indicators in Asian population. However, the data on the relationship of CVAI with stroke is limited. The objective of our study is evaluating the relationship between CVAI and stroke incidence. Methods In the present study, we enrolled 7242 middle-aged and elderly residents from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and placed them into groups according to quartile of CVAI. The outcome of interest was stroke. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate the cumulative incidences of stroke. Cox regression analyses and multivariable-adjusted restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves were performed to evaluate the relationship between CVAI and incident stroke. Multiple sensitivity analyses and subgroups analyses were performed to test the robustness of the findings. Results During a median 84 months of follow-up, 612 (8.45%) participants experienced incident stroke, and the incidences of stroke for participants in quartiles (Q) 1–4 of CVAI were 4.42%, 7.29%, 9.06% and 13.04%, respectively. In the fully adjusted model, per 1.0-SD increment in CVAI has a significant increased risk of incident stroke: hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] was 1.17 (1.07–1.28); compared with participants in Q1 of CVAI, the HRs (95% CI) of incident stroke among those in Q2–4 were 1.47 (1.10–1.95), 1.62 (1.22–2.15), and 1.70 (1.28–2.27), respectively. Subgroups analyses suggested the positive association was significant in male participants, without diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. The findings were robust in all the sensitivity analyses. Additional, RCS curves showed a significant dose-response relationship of CVAI with risk of incident stroke (P for non-linear trend = 0.319). Conclusion Increased CVAI is significantly associated with higher risk of stroke incidence, especially in male individuals, without hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. The findings suggest that baseline CVAI is a reliable and effective biomarker for risk stratification of stroke, which has far-reaching significance for primary prevention of stroke and public health.

Abstract Background Insulin resistance (IR) has been confirmed that getting involved in the pathophysiological process of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Recently, increasing evidence suggests metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio, triglyceride and glucose (TyG) index, triglyceride glucose-body mass (TyG-BMI) index are simple and reliable surrogates for IR. However, their abilities in predicting cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are not well explored. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association and evaluate the predictive performance of each index. Methods A total of 2533 consecutive participants undergoing PCI were included in this study, and the data from 1461 patients were used to determine the correlation of these non-insulin-based IR indices with major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) via performing the multivariate logistic models and restricted cubic splines (RCS). Results During a median of 29.8 months follow-up, 195 cases of 1461 patients experienced incident MACCEs. In the overall population, both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated no statistically significant connection between these IR indices and MACCEs. Subgroup analyses revealed significant interactions between age subgroups and TyG-BMI index, as well as METS-IR, and between sex subgroups and TyG index. In elderly patients, per 1.0-SD increment in TyG-BMI index and METS-IR had a significant association with MACCEs, with odds ratios (ORs) [95% confidence interval (CI)] of 1.24 (1.02–1.50) and 1.27 (1.04–1.56), respectively (both P

Water pollution caused by oil spills at sea and industrial and daily wastewater discharges are causing serious damage to the ecological environment, not only in terms of economic losses but also in terms of human health and survival, a problem that needs to be addressed urgently. Oil/water separation is a global challenge, and while these problems are frequent, various oil/water separation strategies have been extensively investigated in recent years. The efficiency of the materials prepared is a key factor, as are the environmental friendliness and low cost of the methods and raw materials used in the experiments. This work reviews methods and materials applied in oil/water separation in recent years, including natural textile materials, metal meshes, synthetic membranes, particulate adsorbent materials, foams, sponges, aerogels, smart controllable special wettable separation materials.

AbstractBackground Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are a group of rare neuroendocrine tumors. Dysglycemia has been observed in patients with PPGLs in some small case series. However, there is limited information available on the factors associated with development and resolution of dysglycemia in these patients.Patients and methods The clinical data of consecutive patients admitted to our hospital with PPGLs between January 2018 and June 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical characteristics were compared between patients with and without dysglycemia. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the variables.Results Among 163 patients, 58.9% had preoperative dysglycemia. Patients with dysglycemia were significantly older at diagnosis (p = 0.01) and were significantly more likely to have hypertension (p = 0.007). White blood cell counts (p = 0.016), 24-hour urinary epinephrine (24hU-E) levels (p

The Crankshaft Full-automatic Measuring Machine (CFMM) features high accuracy, high efficiency and complete measurement parameters, and represents the forefront of a geometric crankshaft accuracy measuring instrument. One of its core technologies is the high-precision radial following the crankshaft connecting rod journal measurement. In this paper, an independent probe design scheme combining the flexible dual-complex parallel four-bar guide mechanism and double displacement sensors based on the contact measurement method was proposed. It was suitable for the measurement of precision parts with eccentric characteristics such as crankshaft and camshaft measurement. Taking the spring as the flexible part, the probe prototype’s optimization design, processing and assembly were completed, the test device was built, and the system accuracy was calibrated under various positions and feed quantities of the probe. The results revealed that the expanded measurement uncertainty after double-sensor compensation was enhanced from 1.53 μm in single-sensor measurement to 0.44 μm, satisfying the high-precision requirements of engineering measurement accuracy and reducing the measurement cost.

Objective To investigate the clinical features and treatment outcomes of chronic non-bacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) from five tertiary pediatric rheumatology services in China and provide possible treatment options for clinicians. Methods In this multicenter, retrospective study, pediatric patients diagnosed with CNO in Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University and the First Hospital of Jilin University from March 2014 to August 2022 were included. According to the treatment plan, the patients were divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) group, traditional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD) group, tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNF-i) group, bisphosphonate group, and bisphosphonate+TNF-i group, and physician global assessment score was used to evaluate the efficacy. Results Retrospective data analysis showed that the disease was more common in boy sthan girls(31 vs. 27), and the average age at onset of symptoms was 8.5±3.4 years, the mean age of diagnosis was 9.8±3.2 years, and the Median follow-up was 10.9(5.0, 30.1) months. A total of 46 cases (79.3%) were diagnosed in the last 3 years. Bone pain and / or arthralgia was the predominant symptom in 54(93.1%) patients followed by fever in 31(53.4%) patients. Raised inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP) were present in 87.9% and 77.6% of the patients. The most frequently affected bones were lower limb bones, including 42 cases of femur and 41 cases of tibia; 3 patients had compression fractures of the vertebrae at the time of diagnosis. Bone biopsy was conducted in 33 cases, and subacute or chronic osteomyelitis manifested with inflammatory cells infiltration were detected. The remission rate was not statistically different between treatment groups (P=0.562), with the remission rate at 11 months in the bisphosphonate+TNF-i group being 60.0%, 55.6% and 33.3% in the NSAID and DMARD groups respectively; 66.7% and 52.4% in the NSAID and TNF-i groups respectively at 12 months. A total of 40 patients were followed up for ≥6 months, with the remission rate of 81.3%. Conclusions Our multicenter study describes the features and outcomes of CNO patients in China. The characteristics of CNO children from multiple centers in China were lack of specificity. Bone pain and/or arthralgia were the main clinical symptoms, accompanied by fever, normal white blood cells, and raised inflammatory markers (CRP and/or ESR). Although anti-inflammatory treatment regimens were different, the efficacy of the treatment groups was similar. Anti-inflammatory therapy is currently the first choice.

Abstract Background Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) provides accurate left atrial (LA) anatomical information in the procedure of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation but lacks LA functional assessment. LA reservoir strain (LASr) is an excellent marker of LA reservoir function. This study aimed to assess the agreement between LASr derived from ICE and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in AF patients and analyze the reproducibility of LASr assessed by ICE combined with speckle tracking imaging. Methods This study prospectively enrolled 110 patients with a clinical diagnosis of AF who were ready for AF ablation, including 71 patients with paroxysmal AF and 39 with persistent AF. TTE and ICE examinations were performed on each individual before AF ablation. LASr measurements derived from ICE and TTE images were using dedicated LA-tracking software. Pearson correlation coefficients (r) and Bland–Altman plots were used to evaluate the agreement of LASr between the two modalities. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to assess intra- and inter-observer reproducibility. Results The agreement between LASr obtained from ICE and TTE, especially between LASrLPV (LASr derived from LA left pulmonary vein view of ICE) and LASrTTE (LASr derived from TTE) were good in both paroxysmal and persistent AF patients [r = 0.890 (P 0.90). Conclusions In patients with AF, LASr derived from ICE demonstrated excellent reproducibility and showed good agreement with LASr obtained from TTE. Obtaining LASr from ICE images may be a supplementary method to evaluate LA reservoir function in AF patients and expands the potential of ICE in the field of cardiac function assessment. Graphical Abstract

Abstract A deep understanding of the complex interaction mechanism between the various cellular components in tumor microenvironment (TME) of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a prerequisite for understanding its drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. In this study, we proposed two complementary computational frameworks for integrating multi-source and multi-omics data, namely ImmuCycReg framework (single sample level) and L0Reg framework (population or subtype level), to carry out difference analysis between the normal population and different LUAD subtypes. Then, we aimed to identify the possible immune escape pathways adopted by patients with different LUAD subtypes, resulting in immune deficiency which may occur at different stages of the immune cycle. More importantly, combining the research results of the single sample level and population level can improve the credibility of the regulatory network analysis results. In addition, we also established a prognostic scoring model based on the risk factors identified by Lasso-Cox method to predict survival of LUAD patients. The experimental results showed that our frameworks could reliably identify transcription factor (TF) regulating immune-related genes and could analyze the dominant immune escape pathways adopted by each LUAD subtype or even a single sample. Note that the proposed computational framework may be also applicable to the immune escape mechanism analysis of pan-cancer.

The cooling capacity of a radiator under complex environmental conditions is improved by controlling the detector temperature within a range of the thermal control index. An optimal design method for the radiation cooler based on the response surface method (RSM) and genetic algorithm is proposed, and the area and location of the radiation cooler of the space ultraviolet imager detector are optimized. First, the physical model and thermal simulation model of the space ultraviolet imager are established. Then, the detector temperature is used as the objective function, and the length, height, and inclination angle of the radiator in space are used as the design variables. The mathematical model of the objective function is established by the RSM, and the rationality of the mathematical model is verified by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Finally, the Pareto optimal frontier is obtained using the genetic algorithm. The optimization results confirm that the optimal design parameters of the radiator are XW = 165.58 mm, XH = 160.29 mm, θ1 = 7.28°, θ2 = 5.87°. Compared with before optimization, the area of the radiator is reduced by 18.18%, and the weight is reduced by 48.78 g. Based on verifying the optimization results, the optimized radiation cooler can control the detector within the target temperature of −20 to −10 °C. Therefore, the optimal design of the radiation cooler meets the requirement of lightweight while improving the cooling capacity of the radiator.

The differentiated management of agricultural water pollution plays a significant role in alleviating water quality crisis, which is an important factor to guarantee sustainable water use and agriculture. The key is to accurately identify the differentiated pathways to reduce water pollution due to agricultural activities. Taking Hubei Province as a case study, this study comprehensively explored the actual spatial–temporal characteristics and main influencing factors of agricultural grey water footprint (AGWF) for the time period from 2010 to 2019 at the provincial and municipal levels by creatively combining the Dagum Gini coefficient, Moran’s I index and Generalized Divisia Index Method (GDIM). On the basis, the Tapio decoupling model was used to examine the status quo of AGWF reduction in the context of economic development and to classify the two-dimensional decoupling state between AGWF and agricultural GDP (AGDP), aiming at guiding the implementation of zoning management. The analysis yield four significant results: (1) Compared with 2010, the AGWF of Hubei Province in 2019 has achieved negative growth both at the provincial and municipal levels. The AGWF of Hubei Province and its 17 prefecture-level cities presented a trend of first rising and then declining. On the whole, AGWF was positively correlated with AGDP at the municipal level. (2) During the whole study period, the difference in AGWFs of 17 subregions in Hubei Province basically remained in a “relatively unbalanced” state. There was no significant spatial dependence among the subregions on the whole. (3) AGDP and permanent resident population were the main promoting factors of AGWF increase, while AGWF intensity, AGDP per capita and agricultural water use (AWU) intensity were the main inhibiting factors. Among them, AGDP and AGWF intensity respectively played the largest promoting and inhibiting effects on the increase of AGWF. (4) AGWF and AGDP of 17 prefecture-level cities in Hubei Province have all achieved strong decoupling, indicating that AGWFs in these regions have achieved both quantity and efficiency control. These cities were divided into different categories and given differentiated zoning management measures. This study puts forward a complete analytical framework for differentiated zoning management of regional agricultural water pollution. The research findings of this paper can provide important policy implications for other cases as well.

Abstract Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecologic malignancies. Identification of potential EC biomarkers is essential to improve the prognosis and development of therapies against EC. Synaptotagmin-like protein 1 (SYTL1), as a small GTPase Rab27 effector, mainly plays a role in vesicle trafficking and cytotoxic granule exocytosis in lymphocytes. However the role of SYTL1 in EC remains uncertain. We performed a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between SYTL1 and patient diagnosis and prognosis by analysis of EC patients’ data from TCGA. We employed the LinkedOmics and Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database to analyze the biological function of SYTL1 in EC. In addition, the correlation between SYTL1 expression and its DNA methylation was performed by using cBioportal, UALCAN, TCGA Wanderer and MethSurv databases. We further assessed the link between SYTL1 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells by using gene set variation analysis (GSVA). Results We found that SYTL1 was highly expressed in EC patients and cell lines. And increased expression of SYTL1 was associated with age, clinical stage, histological type, histological grade and good overall survival (OS).SYTL1 DNA methylation is negatively associated with SYTL1 expression and UCEC patients’ OS. SYTL1 expression is closely correlated with immune infiltration. Furthermore, we carried out in vitro experiments to verify the results of bioinformatic analysis. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that the elevation of SYTL1 expression is associated with good OS and SYTL1 might be a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker in EC.

This paper summarizes the research progress on the types of interactions between proteins and polyphenols and their effects on protein characteristics, and prospects the future foods with the coexistence of polyphenols and proteins.

The cotton fabric is esterified with a carboxylic acid (4-azidobenzoic acid) having an azide group to obtain a cotton fabric with an azide group on the surface. Then, the hydrophobic group-containing substance (1-heptyne) was modified on the surface of the cotton fabric through click chemistry, and a cotton fabric with super-hydrophobic and super-lipophilic properties was prepared. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), thermogravimetric/differential thermal analyzer (TG), and contact angle measuring instrument were used to characterize the surface morphology and hydrophobicity of the cotton fabric. The effect of pore size on the efficiency of oil-water separation was explored. The results show that the prepared cotton fabric has super-hydrophobic and super-lipophilic properties with a contact angle of up to 154.1°, and it has been successfully applied to oil/water separation. Even for different oil/water mixtures, the separation efficiency was better than 94% on average. The large pore size is beneficial to improve the efficiency of oil-water separation.

Adenocarcinoma is the second largest histological type of cervical cancer, second only to cervical squamous cell carcinoma. At present, despite the clinical treatment strategies of cervical adenocarcinoma and cervical squamous cell carcinoma being similar, the outcome and prognosis of cervical adenocarcinoma are significantly poor. Therefore, it is urgent to find specific biomarker and therapeutic target for cervical adenocarcinoma. In this study, we aim to reveal and verify the potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets of cervical adenocarcinoma. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) reveals the differentially-expressed genes significantly related to the histological characteristics of the two cervical cancer subtypes. We select the genes with the top 20 significance for further investigation. Through microarray and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses of a variety of tumor tissues, we find that among these 20 genes, AHNAK2 is highly expressed not only in cervical adenocarcinoma, but also in multiple of adenocarcinoma tissues, including esophagus, breast and colon, while not in normal gland tissues. In vitro, AHNAK2 knockdown significantly inhibits cell proliferation and migration of adenocarcinoma cell lines. In vivo, AHNAK2 knockdown significantly inhibits tumor progression and metastasis of various adenocarcinomas. RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analyses suggest that the inhibitory effect of AHNAK2 knockdown on tumor progression is achieved by regulating DNA replication and upregulating Bim expression. Together, we demonstrate that AHNAK2 is a biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for adenocarcinomas.

Abstract To ascertain the prevalence of contralateral patent processus vaginalis (CPPV) in life and the significance of the prevalence trends for treatment. We performed a retrospective review of all inguinal hernias (IHs) that underwent repair in our hospital from 2014 to 2018. We analyzed the frequency of occurrence and treatment in boys. We assessed and compared the history, initial sides of hernia, CPPV and prognoses in different age groups. We assessed all IH cases repaired in our hospital and selected male patients of a variety of ages, including boys and men. Recurrent cases were not enrolled. A total of 3243 cases were enrolled: 2489 [right-sided IH 1411 (56.69%) vs. left-sided IH 975 (39.17%), bilateral IH 103 (4.14%)] in children and 754 [right-sided IH 485 (64.32%) vs. left-sided IH 236 (31.30%), bilateral IH 33 (4.38%)] in adults. A total of 1124 CPPVs were identified in children with unilateral IH (2386), and 12 were identified in adults (267) (p 0.05). The incidence of IH in boys was significantly higher than that in men. The number of incident cases declines rapidly with age in boys. The processus vaginalis is normally obliterated and involuted but may instead remain patent for a long period before closure; routine exploration on the contralateral side may eliminate the possibility of spontaneous PPV closure.

BackgroundThe presence of a high left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) has been linked to a less favorable outcome in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. However, by taking into consideration the reference of left ventricular size and volume measurements relative to the patient's body surface area (BSA), it has been suggested that the accuracy of the predicting outcomes may be improved. ObjectiveWe propose that BSA weighted LVEDD (bLVEDD) is a more accurate predictor of outcomes in patients undergoing CABG compared to simply using LVEDD alone. MethodsThis study was a comprehensive retrospective cohort study that was conducted across multiple medical centers. The inclusion criteria for this study were patients who were admitted for treatment between October 2016 and May 2021. Only elective surgery patients were included in the study, while those undergoing emergency surgery were not considered. All participants in the study received standard care, and their clinical data were collected through the institutional registry in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Adult Cardiac Database. bLVEDD was defined as LVEDD divided by BSA. The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality (30 days), and the secondary outcomes were postoperative severe adverse events, including use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, multiorgan failure, use of intra-aortic balloon pump, postoperative stroke, and postoperative myocardial infarction. ResultsIn total, 9474 patients from 5 centers under the Chinese Cardiac Surgery Registry were eligible for analysis. We found that a high LVEDD was a negative factor for male patients’ mortality (odds ratio 1.44, P

BackgroundPheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are neuroendocrine tumors, most of which are characterized by the release of catecholamine, and range in diameters from less than 1 cm to 10 cm or more. However, knowledge of the differences in clinical features between small and large PPGLs is insufficient.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patients with PPGLs treated at our institution between January 2018 and June 2020 was performed. The clinical characteristics of patients were investigated, and comparisons were made between patients with large and small PPGLs. The logistic regression analysis was used to confirm the risk factors, and the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the variables.ResultsTotally 263 patients were included, including 110 patients in small tumor group and 153 patients in large tumor group. There were more male patients in the large tumor group (p=0.009). More patients had hypertension (p

For theoretically predicting the stability of the passivation solution with changing acidity, based on the equilibria of precipitation-dissolution, complexation-dissociation and ionization-hydrolysis, and considering the effect of ionic strength, the equations of the material balance and the proton balance for all the substances in the passivation solution were established.By solving the multivariate high order equations, content of all the substances in passivation solution were obtained under a certain material ratio, the acidity value was calculated.The stability of the passivation solution was predicted by judging whether there was precipitation in the passivation solution at this acidity through the solubility product constant.Comparing the theoretical calculation with the experimental result, it could be found that in the range of pH=2.3～3.0, the calculated value of pH of passivation solution was in good agreement with the experimental data, and the error was less than 10%.With the decrease of acidity, the passivation solution prepared in the experiment became unstable when pH≥2.5 and resulting in cloudiness and precipitation, which was generally consistent with the precipitation phenomenon at pH ≥3.0 in calculated prediction.With the decrease of the concentration of the passivation solution, the theoretical pH value of the passivation solution was closer to the experimental data, and the error between the theoretical pH value and experimental pH value was smaller when the precipitation occurred.Therefore, the established dissolution and precipitation model of passivation solution could reflect the influencelaw of the acidity on the stability of the passivation solution well.According to this concentration prediction model, the precipitation process of different insoluble salts caused by the dynamic increase of acidity during the continuous dissolution of aluminium in passivation solution could be calculated and the model could be used to infer the interface layer structure between aluminium alloy and passivation layer, which would be of guiding significance for understanding the passivation mechanism of aluminium alloy.

Hypertension is regarded as the most prominent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, which have become a primary cause of death, and recent research has demonstrated that chronic inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Both innate and adaptive immunity are now known to promote the elevation of blood pressure by triggering vascular inflammation and microvascular remodeling. For example, as an important part of innate immune system, classically activated macrophages (M1), neutrophils, and dendritic cells contribute to hypertension by secreting inflammatory cy3tokines. In particular, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) produced by activated T lymphocytes contribute to hypertension by inducing oxidative stress injury and endothelial dysfunction. However, the regulatory T cells and alternatively activated macrophages (M2) may have a protective role in hypertension. Although inflammation is related to hypertension, the exact mechanisms are complex and unclear. The present review aims to reveal the roles of inflammation, immunity, and oxidative stress in the initiation and evolution of hypertension. We envisage that the review will strengthen public understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of hypertension and may provide new insights and potential therapeutic strategies for hypertension.

A method of high performance liquid chromatography tandem high resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS) was developed for the separation and identification of chemical components in Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao extract. The separation of compounds was carried out on an Agilent Zorbax SBC18 column (150 mm×4.6 mm×5 μm). The mobile phase was composed with acetonitrile and water with the flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Electrospray ionisation source (ESI) was used, and Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao extract was analyzed by MS and MSn full scan at positive and negative ion modes. Through comprehensive analysis of the mass spectra and chromatographic behaviors of the compounds, and comparing with the related data from standard substrates, literatures and database, the main chemical components of Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao extract were deduced and identified. A total of 63 compounds are identified from Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao extract at negative ion mode, and 54 compounds are identified at positive ionization mode. These compounds contain 22 tannins, 28 stilbenes, 6 flavonoids, 3 phenylpropanoids, 2 butyrophenones and 2 organic acids, which of 53 compounds are firstly discovered in Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao. And as reported in the literature, enquinones are not found. This method is fast and sensitive, which not only improves the identification efficiency of trace compounds in Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao complex matrix, but also achieves the analysis and identification of different types of compounds. It is helpful to provide scientific basis for further clarifying the material basisand quality control standards of Rheum lhasaense A. J. Li et P. K. Hsiao.

BackgroundBlood pressure (BP) exhibits seasonal variation with lower levels at higher temperatures and vice versa. This phenomenon affects both sexes and all age groups. So far, only a few research studies have investigated this condition in adolescents and none of them were based on hypertensive population or ever applied ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM). Therefore, we carried out the first study that used ABPM to record seasonal variation of blood pressure in hypertensive adolescents.MethodsFrom March 2018 to February 2019, 649 ABPMs from hypertensive adolescents between 13 and 17 years who were referred to wear an ABPM device in Beijing and Baoding were extracted. Seasonal change in ambulatory BP value, dipping status, and prevalence of different BP phenotypes were analyzed and compared.ResultsMean age of participants was 14.9 ± 1.5 years and 65.8% of them were boys. Of the participants, 75.3% met the criteria of overweight or obesity. From summer to winter, average 24-hour, day-time, and night-time BP showed significant rise, which was 9.8/2.8, 9.8/3.0, and 10.9/3.4 mmHg, respectively. This seasonal effect on BP was not dependent on the obesity degree. In addition, higher prevalence of nondippers and risers existed in winter while white coat hypertension was more frequent in warmer seasons.ConclusionHypertensive adolescents showed evident seasonal change in their ABPM results, which was featured by elevated BP level and more frequent abnormal dipping patterns in winter. On the contrary, higher prevalence of white coat hypertension was found in warmer seasons. Physicians should take seasonal variation into consideration when managing adolescent hypertension.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: To determine tuberculosis (TB) recurrence in previously successfully treated patients in a routine program setting and baseline characteristics associated with TB recurrence. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study in Jiangxi Province, China. Patients, ≥14 years old, were consecutively registered and were followed up for seven years to assess TB recurrence against a patients’ individual baseline data that had been entered into a database at TB registration. Results: There were 800 TB patients registered at baseline, and 634 (79.2%) of them completed anti-TB treatments. Fifty-nine (9.3%) died, and 21 (3.3%) were lost to follow-up over the follow-up period. There were 96 patients with recurrent episodes (total incidence 15.2% or annual incidence 2,200/100,000). Of the recurrent cases, 53 (55.2%) happened within 2-year after completion of anti-TB treatments. After controlling confounding factors, the risk of TB recurrence was significantly higher in the age range 34-73 years (P

Background: The ideal position of suture annuloplasty relative to the aortic annulus (internal or external) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of internal and external suture annuloplasty for isolated type 1 bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) repair. Electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated computed tomography (CT) was used to compare the two techniques and analyze their impact on the aortic annulus. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 20 patients who underwent isolated type 1 BAV repair with either internal or external suture annuloplasty. Each group included 10 patients with comparable clinical features. Preoperative and postoperative ECG-gated CT scans were performed to assess the anatomical relationship between the ventricular-aortic junction (VAJ) and virtual basal ring (VBR), and to measure the height of annuloplasty from the VBR at predefined landmarks in both groups. Perioperative annular geometries, including annular area and perimeter, were measured to quantify the impact of annuloplasty on annular expansibility. The discrepancy between the postoperative annular dimension and size of the Hegar dilator were compared between groups to evaluate the effectiveness of annuloplasty. Results: In both groups, VAJ was higher than VBR at the right coronary (RC) ostium (7.7 ± 3.3 mm) and the raphe (7.9 ± 1.5 mm). The height from the VBR to the external suture annuloplasty shared a similar pattern at the RC ostium and raphe (5.3 ± 1.1 mm and 4.8 ± 1.0 mm, respectively). In contrast, the height differences were minimal for these landmarks in the internal group. Postoperative annular area expansibility decreased in the internal group compared to preoperative levels (4.9 ± 2.3% vs. 8.9 ± 5.5%, p = 0.038), while no significant change was found in the external group (7.6 ± 4.1% vs. 6.5 ± 2.8%, p = 0.473). The internal group showed less area discrepancy between the VBR and the Hegar dilator both at systole (10.1 ± 3.7% vs. 30.1 ± 16.6%, p = 0.004) and diastole (5.7 ± 4.9% vs. 20.9 ± 14.5%, p = 0.009) compared to the external group. Conclusions: Internal suture annuloplasty results in better positioning relative to the VBR than external suture annuloplasty due to the absence of VAJ interference. While this results in more precise annular reduction and less expansibility in the short term, a long-term follow-up evaluation is necessary to assess its effectiveness.

A sensor for measuring the crankshaft angle of the main engine in ships is designed. Compared with the existing crankshaft angle encoder, this design’s advantage is that there is no need to add a gear system at the free end of the crankshaft, reducing machining complexity. The purpose of providing high angle resolution over a wide speed range is achieved. Inductive angular displacement sensors (IADSs) require an eddy current magnetic field as a medium to generate the induced voltage. The induced voltage also requires a complex linearization calculation to obtain a linear relationship between angle and voltage. Therefore, a model of the inductive angular displacement sensor based on magnetic focusing (IADSMF) is proposed. Magnetic focusing is introduced into the IADS to replace the eddy current magnetic field with a focusing magnetic field. The main disadvantage of traditional IADSs, which is that they cannot reduce the eddy current magnetic field, is mitigated. An approximate square–shaped focusing magnetic field (12.4 × 12.4 mm2) is formed using the magnetic field constraint of the magnetic conductor. When the receiving coil undergoes a position change relative to the square–shaped focusing magnetic field, the voltage generated via the receiving coil is measured using the electromagnetic induction principle to achieve angular displacement measurement. A mathematical model of the IADSMF is derived. Induced voltages at different frequencies and rotational speeds are simulated and analyzed via MATLAB. The results show that frequency is the main factor affecting the induced voltage amplitude. The sensitivity of the IADSMF is 0.2023 mV/°. The resolution and measurement of the IADSMF range from 0.06° and 0–360°. Compared with a conventional planar coil–based IADS, the eddy current loss is reduced from 2.1304 to 0.3625 W. Direct linearization of the angular displacement with the induced voltage is achieved through designing a square–shaped focusing field and receiving coil. After optimizing the sensor structure with the optimization algorithm, the linearity error is 0.6012%. Finally, this sensor provides a theoretical basis and research ideas for IADS development in ships and navigation.

Two ground deformation modes, i.e., the arching mode and collapsing mode, may be caused by tunnel excavation. However, the development of the ground deformation corresponding to the two modes is unclear. A piece of a model test facility is designed to study the ground settlement induced by tunnel excavation. Tunnel excavation is realized by decreasing the area of the model tunnel. Two model tests with different soil cohesion are conducted, and the two ground deformation modes form in the two tests, respectively. The former mode is observed at higher soil cohesion while the latter is found to develop at lower soil cohesion. Whether the failure surface develops to the ground surface or not is the most significant difference between the two ground deformation modes. In the two modes, the failure surface occurs at the position where the ground settlement contours distribute densely, and the shape of the failure surface can be described by the semi-oval for both modes. Meanwhile, for both the arching mode and the collapsing mode, Gaussian curves can reasonably describe the ground settlement troughs before the ground surface settlement becomes stable or increases sharply, and distribution of the trough width parameter is similar.

Objective To investigate the status of post⁃traumatic growth of viral encephalitis patients and screen the influencing factors. Methods A total of 110 viral encephalitis patients who were diagnosed and treated in West China Hospital, Sichuan University from July 2017 to July 2019 were investigated. A cross⁃sectional survey were adopted, including general data questionnaire, Post⁃traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), Family Concern Index Questionnaire (APGAR) and Connor⁃Davidson Resilience Scale (CD⁃RISC). Correlation analysis were used to analyze the relationship between PTGI score and age, APGAR score or CD⁃RISC score, respectively. Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of post⁃traumatic growth in patients with viral encephalitis. Results A total of 110 questionnaires were sent out and 105 were effectively received, with an effective recovery rate of 95.45%. The mean total PTGI score was 57.76±15.23, and the score of dimensions of interpersonal relationship, life perception, personal strength, spiritual change and new possibilities was 16.92±3.49, 12.44±3.20, 11.91±3.50, 8.82±3.48 and 7.67±3.49, respectively. The partial correlation analysis showed that the total PTGI score was positively correlated with APGAR score (r=0.331, P=0.001) and CD⁃RISC score (r=0.286, P=0.003). Logistic regression analysis showed that higher APGAR score (OR=1.260, 95%CI: 1.051-1.511; P=0.013) and higher CD⁃RISC score (OR=1.093, 95%CI: 1.035-1.153; P=0.001) could positively affect post⁃traumatic growth, while complications (OR=0.029, 95%CI: 0.003⁃0.320; P=0.004) was the opposite. Conclusions The status of post⁃traumatic growth of viral encephalitis patients is in the lower level. For patients with complications the psychological intervention should be strengthened. At the same time, family care and personality strength have additional effects on post⁃traumatic growth. We should take targeted measures to encourage such patients to establish better post⁃traumatic psychological regulation mechanism, and to accelerate the post⁃traumatic growth.

BackgroundCatecholamine excess arising from pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) can cause a wide spectrum of cardiac manifestations. Although there are reviews of reported cases, these reviews lack detailed data, which makes it impossible to perform an accurate analysis. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of cardiovascular complications (CCs), including PPGL-related myocardial injury, cardiogenic shock, and arrhythmias requiring antiarrhythmic therapy, in a large cohort of patients with PPGL.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of consecutive patients with PPGL admitted between January 2018 and June 2020. The prevalence and the characteristics of patients with CCs were investigated. Moreover, comparisons were made between patients with and without CCs.ResultsCompared with the non-CC group, the percentage of men was significantly lower (14/41 vs.92/175, 34.1% vs. 52.6%, p = 0.034) and the proportion of patients with paroxysmal hypertension was significantly higher (13/41 vs.29/173, 31.7% vs.16.8%, p = 0.03) in the CC group. More patients showed excessive sweating (19/41 vs 64/175, 46.3% vs. 24.0%, p = 0.004) and PPGL crisis (7/41 vs. 10/175, 17.1% vs.5.7%, p=0.035) in the CC group. In terms of laboratory findings, higher white blood cell [7.36 (6.49, 20.23) vs. 5.95 (5.1, 6.97)×109/L, p

Drilling fluid invasion and pressure transmission caused by the development of micropores and fractures in shale oil and gas formations are the major factors contributing to wellbore instability during drilling using oil-based drilling fluids (OBFs). In this study, a modified polystyrene latex (MPL) material was synthesized through emulsion polymerization and was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations, and contact angle testing. The influence of the MPL on the stability of a water-in-oil emulsion was analyzed via sedimentation observations and electrical stability tests. The effects of the MPL on the plugging mechanism of white oil and water-in-oil emulsions were evaluated using 0.1–1.0 μm micro-porous filtration films. The experimental results revealed that the MPL has a favorable thermal stability, with an initial thermal decomposition temperature of 363°C, a median particle size (D50) of 233 nm, and a three-phase contact angle of 103.5°. The MPL can enhance the sedimentation stability of an emulsion to a considerable extent and can improve the electrical stability (ES) of the emulsion, which is conducive to the stability of OBFs. Due to the deformability of the MPL, it has a wide range of adaptations for micro-scale pores and fractures. In both the white oil and water-in-oil emulsions, the MPL can reduce the filtration loss through microporous membranes with pore sizes of 0.1–1.0 μm to within 10 ml. This paper details the methodology of the synthesis of nanomaterials that can effectively plug a formation’s nanopores and fractures; thereby, stabilizing OBFs.

Background: Rare cases of concurrent primary aldosteronism (PA) and renal artery stenosis (RAS) have been reported. Methods: In this retrospective case–control study, we selected a cohort of 10 PA with RAS patients and a control group of 20 PA without RAS patients from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2016. Results: All patients presented with refractory hypertension, and a nonstatistically significant trend toward lower mean serum potassium was seen in the PA with RAS group (p =.07). PA with RAS patients had lower mean orthostatic aldosterone-to-renin ratios (38.4 ± 41.4 ng dL−1/ng mL−1 h−1 vs. 87.4.4 ± 38.4 ng dL−1/ng mL−1 h−1, respectively; p

Abstract Background To identify the association between tricuspid annular circumference and secondary tricuspid regurgitation and analyze the risk factors of recurrent tricuspid regurgitation after concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty during left heart surgery. Methods From October 2018 to June 2019, a total of 117 patients receiving concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty within left heart surgery were enrolled. Severity of tricuspid regurgitation was classified as 4 subtypes: normal, mild, moderate and severe. Perioperative data and mid-term outcome were collected. Tricuspid annular circumference (TAC) was measured under cardiac arrest during surgery procedure by cardioplegia. Optimal TAC and TAC index (TAC/body surface area, BSA) cutoffs of significant tricuspid annulus dilatation (moderate and severe) were obtained. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors of postoperative recurrent tricuspid regurgitation. The follow up period is 13–19 months (mean 15.5 ± 3.2 months). Results There was 1 patient was excluded who died after surgery. A total of 116 patients receiving tricuspid annuloplasty were included. Optimal cutoffs of significant tricuspid annulus dilatation were recommended (TAC 11.45 cm, Sensitivity 82.89%, Specificity 73.68%, AUC 0.915; TAC index 7.09 cm/m2, Sensitivity 73.68%, Specificity 85%, AUC 0.825, respectively). Based on findings of multivariable logistic regression, it has been showed that TAC index and postoperative atrial fibrillation were the independent risk factors of recurrent regurgitation after surgery. Optimal TAC index cutoff to predict recurrent tricuspid regurgitation was 7.86 cm/m2 Conclusions The severity of secondary tricuspid regurgitation is associated with the tricuspid annular circumference. The cut-offs of significant tricuspid regurgitation (more than moderate) were TAC 11.45 cm and TAC index 7.09 cm/m2, respectively. Clinically, concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty is relative safe and effective. TAC index ≥ 7.86 cm/m2 and postoperative atrial fibrillation are the risk factors of recurrent significant tricuspid regurgitation after concomitant tricuspid annuloplasty during left heart surgery.

To explore the clinical features of coexisting primary aldosteronism (PA) and renal artery stenosis (RAS), we retrospectively analyzed records from 71 patients with PA with RAS and a control group of 121 patients with PA without RAS. Aldosterone-to-renin concentration ratio tests and computerized tomography (CT) scanning of the adrenal and renal arteries were routinely conducted to screen for PA and RAS. Color Doppler flow and/or magnetic resonance imaging were used as substitute testing of patients for whom CT was contraindicated. Standard percutaneous renal arteriography (PTRA) was considered for patients with RAS exceeding 70% based on non-invasive tests and for those without PTRA contraindications. The patients with PA with RAS were further divided into severe (RAS>70%) and moderate (50% < RAS