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Despite encouraging advances in early diagnosis and treatment, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Increasing evidence has shown that the electromagnetic field (EMF) influences many biological processes, which has attracted much attention for its potential therapeutic and diagnostic modalities in multiple diseases, such as musculoskeletal disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Nonionizing EMF has been studied as a therapeutic or diagnostic tool in CVDs. In this review, we summarize the current literature ranging from in vitro to clinical studies focusing on the therapeutic potential (external EMF) and diagnostic potential (internal EMF generated from the heart) of EMF in CVDs. First, we provided an overview of the therapeutic potential of EMF and associated mechanisms in the context of CVDs, including cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial ischemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Furthermore, we investigated the diagnostic and predictive value of magnetocardiography in CVDs. Finally, we discussed the critical steps necessary to translate this promising approach into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The snare-assisted technique has been described to facilitate transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) delivery system advancement in complex aortic anatomies. However, the evidence is limited to case reports. To evaluate the safety profile of the snare-facilitated approach and its impact on self-expanding (SE) TAVR outcomes, we collected consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral SE-TAVR for aortic stenosis, using propensity score matching (PSM) separately in tricuspid and type-0 and type-1 bicuspid aortic valve morphology between the snare and non-snare groups. In 766 patients, despite the snare group having significantly larger annulus angulation and maximal ascending aortic diameter, both groups achieved comparable 30-day device success rates, regardless of first-generation or new-generation valve use. After PSM, the snare group had a significantly lower new permanent pacemaker implantation rate among 193 type-0 patients (3.3% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.01). The ipsilateral group used new-generation valves less frequently (23.0% vs. 75.4%, p < 0.001), but there were no significant inter-group differences in procedure-related events, except for a lower incidence of PVL ≥ mild in the ipsilateral group (14.9% vs. 32.3%, p = 0.01). In conclusion, the snare-assisted technique appears useful in SE-TAVR with angulated aortic root anatomy, and the benefits were comparable between ipsilateral and contralateral snare techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oil-immersed transformer is a crucial piece of equipment in the power system. Operating at the specified temperature is necessary to ensure the normal operation of the transformer. The insulation paper on the winding surface has a significant impact on the actual temperature of the transformers, which is often overlooked by researchers. The one-dimensional steady-state heat conduction model of the transformer is established by analyzing the heat diffusion process of winding to transformer oil. Atomic force microscope was used to observe the microsurface structure of insulation paper and copper. According to the experiment, the heat transfer resistance in the series process of heat transfer at 7 0 ∘ C is 0.0138 m2 K/W. Space thermal circuit model of transformer is established by thermoelectricity analogy method, and the simulation circuit is optimized according to the boundary conditions set up in the actual environment. The results show that the error of the hot spot temperature is closer to the measured temperature and decreases by 2.5% when considering the thermal resistance of insulation paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is conflicting evidence regarding the impact of preexisting renal dysfunction (RD) on mid-term outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS). Methods and results: Forty-seven articles representing 32,131 patients with AS undergoing a TAVI procedure were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Pooled analyses were performed with both univariate and multivariate models, using a fixed or random effects method when appropriate. Compared with patients with normal renal function, mid-term mortality was significantly higher in patients with preexisting RD, as defined by the author (univariate hazard ratio [HR]: 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50–1.90; multivariate HR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.17–1.84), baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (univariate HR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.47–1.86; multivariate HR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.24–1.71), and serum creatinine (univariate HR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.48–1.92; multivariate HR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.36–1.99). Advanced stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD stage 3–5) was strongly related to bleeding (univariate HR in CKD stage 3: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.13–1.49; in CKD stage 4: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04–1.62), acute kidney injure (AKI) (univariate HR in CKD stage 3: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.03–1.59; in CKD stage 4: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.74–2.96), stroke (univariate HR in CKD stage 4: 3.37, 95% CI: 1.52–7.46), and mid-term mortality (univariate HR in CKD stage 3: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.26–1.95; in CKD stage 4: 2.77, 95% CI: 2.06–3.72; in CKD stage 5: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.91–3.65) compared with CKD stage 1+2. Patients with CKD stage 4 had a higher incidence of AKI (univariate HR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.34–2.16) and all-cause death (univariate HR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.28–1.99) compared with those with CKD stage 3. A per unit decrease in serum creatinine was also associated with a higher mortality at mid-term follow-up (univariate HR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.18–1.30; multivariate HR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.08–1.30). Conclusions: Preexisting RD was associated with increased mid-term mortality after TAVI. Patients with CKD stage 4 had significantly higher incidences of peri-procedural complications and a poorer prognosis, a finding that should be factored into the clinical decision-making process regarding these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The formation and degradation of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline, derived from the secondary amine Maillard reaction in xylose-amino acid model solutions, were detailed in this study. The identification and quantitative analysis of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline were carried out using high-performance anion-exchange chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The formation of intermediate and advanced products derived from N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline was also tested using an UV-Vis spectrophotometer to gain a better comparing of the degradation process of the two important Maillard reaction products using thermal treatment. Results showed that the degradation of N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine was more significant than N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline. Moreover, xylose was tested in the degradation products of both N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)glycine and N-(1-Deoxy- d-xylulos-1-yl)proline, which indicated that the degradation of N-substituted 1-amino-1-deoxyketoses was a reversible reaction to form reducing sugar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Molasses-based distilleries are one of the most vulnerable to pollution industries, which always generate large volumes of high strength vinasse. Recently, one of the most effective re-applications/reuse of vinasse is concentrating the molasses vinasse to prepare as fodder additive for animal food. However, the dosage of molasses vinasse to be added as animal feed is always limited because of the unexpectedly high potassium content in molasses vinasse. In present study, potassium ions were firstly extracted from molasses vinasses using a strong acid–cation exchange resin, and then desorbed from the resin and dissolved into the eluate by H2SO4 solution as the strong acid–cation exchange resin was regenerated. Finally, evaluation to recycle and reuse the mother liquor (once-used eluant), after extracting K2SO4 crystals from the eluant, was investigated. Results indicated that using the mother liquor to elute the resin column which absorbing K+ from molasses vinasse was a potential means for industrial production of potassium salt. Meanwhile, the molasses vinasse which has removed most potassium ions might be used as animal feed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) humidity sensor based on alternating current (AC) testing is made, and its frequency characteristic is studied. When the testing frequency (f) increases, both the sensor conductance and the sensitivity (S) to relative humidity (RH) ascend accordingly. Under the testing frequency (f) of 1MHz the sensitivity is about −95 times of that at f =50Hz. The mechanism of the sensor response to RH under alternating current testing can be interpreted by the theory of capillary condensation and dielectric physics, and the electrical model of the sensor is explored by both experimental and theoretical analysis. The stability, repeatability and response time of the sensor are investigated in details. Experiment results show that the sensor under AC testing demonstrates higher sensitivity and better reversibility. The response time and recovery time are 16s and 8s, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Studies of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) specifically for bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients are lacking. We aim to delineate possible aspects that might affect the incidence of PPI in a retrospective cohort of BAV patients treated with early-generation self-expanding devices.Methods: A total of 80 patients with bicuspid morphology who successfully underwent TAVR by self-expanding devices without prior PPI were included. Baseline clinical, echocardiographic, and angiographic characteristics, procedural and post-procedural details were collected.Results: The incidence of PPI after early-generation self-expanding valves in this BAV cohort was 26.3%. Baseline characteristics were comparable between patients requiring PPI post-TAVR or not. Perimeter oversizing greater than 20% significantly increased the risk of PPI compared with an oversizing of 10-20% (OR 5.08 [1.22, 21.07], P = 0.03). The proportion of patients with a depth of implantation greater than 6 mm was significantly higher in those who required PPI (82.4% vs 54.3%, P = 0.04). When testing the impact of depth of implantation >6 mm and oversizing in different morphologies, only in type 1 bicuspid patients and by oversizing>20% increased the risk of PPI (OR 12.00 [1.25, 115.36], P = 0.03) compared with an oversizing of 10-20%.Conclusions: Excessive perimeter oversizing in relation to aortic annulus and depth of implantation greater than 6 mm should be avoided to improve PPI post-TAVR for BAV patients receiving self-expanding devices, especially for type 1 BAV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The correlation between stable geomagnetic fields and unstable geomagnetic activities with mortality, incidence, and prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remains ambiguous. Method: To investigate the correlations between geomagnetic field (GMF) intensity and geomagnetic disturbance (GMD) and CVDs events in global, long-period scale, global and 204 countries and territories were included on the base of 2019 Global Burden of Disease study (GBD 2019). Data of GMF intensity, GMD frequency, CVDs events, weather and health economic indicators from 1996 to 2019 of included locations were collected. Linear regression and panel data modelling were conducted to identify the correlations between GMF intensity and CVDs events, multi-factor panel data analysis was also generated to adjust the effect of confounding factors. Results: For the average data during 1996–2019, linear regression model revealed consistent positive correlations between total GMF (tGMF) intensity and mortality of total CVDs [coef = 0.009, (0.006,0.011 95%CI)], whereas negative correlations were found between horizonal GMF (hGMF) intensity and total CVD mortality [coef = -0.010 (-0.013, -0.007 95%CI)]. When considering the time trend, panel data analysis still demonstrated positive correlation between tGMF and total CVDs mortality [coef = 0.009, (0.008,0.009 95%CI)]. Concurrently, the hGMF negatively correlated with total CVDs mortality [coef = -0.008, (-0.009, -0.007 95%CI)]. When the panel models were adjusted for confounding factors, no reverse of correlation tendency was found between tGMF, hGMF and CVDs events. In high-income territories, positive correlation was found between geomagnetic storm (GMS) frequency and mortality of total CVDs [coef = 14.007,(2.785, 25.229 95%CI)], however, this positive trend faded away gradually with the latitude decreasing from polar to equator. Conclusions: Stable and long-term horizontal component of GMF may be beneficial to cardiac health. Unstable and short-term GMF called GMD could be a hazard to cardiac health. Our results suggest the importance of regular GMF in maintaining cardio-health state and the adverse impacts of GMD on cardiac health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method to analyse the contact resistance of a carbon nanotubes (CNTs) humidity sensor is proposed. By analysing the Cole‐Cole plots of the sensor impedance, which was tested by an electrochemical workstation in different RH environments, the contact resistance could be achieved. According to this novel analytical method and the experimental data, the contact resistance of the sensor was about 5 Ω, which was much smaller than the resistance of the sensing film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Studies on genetic alterations of the heterogenous small cell lung cancer (SCLC) are rare. We carried out the present study to clarify the genomic alterations and TMB levels of Chinese SCLC patients by whole-exome sequencing. Materials and Methods. Whole-exome sequencing by next-generation sequencing technique was implemented on twenty SCLC samples. Significant somatic mutations and copy number variations were screened, followed by comparison with the data extracted from COSMIC. Besides, altered signaling pathways were examined in order to figure out actionable targets. Results. A total of 8,062 nonsynonymous mutations were defined. The number of mutations for each case ranged from 98 to 864. As for base substitutions, a total of 15,817 substitutions were detected with C > A conversion which was correlated to smoking occupying 25.57%. The TMB values ranged from 2.51/Mb to 22.1/Mb with a median value of 9.95/Mb. RB1 was the most frequently mutated gene altered in 18 (90%) cases, followed by TP53 altered in 17 (85%) cases. Other commonly changed genes were PTEN, and RBL1, with frequencies of 55% and 50%, respectively. SOX2 significantly amplified in 6 (30%) cases and MYCN amplified in 1 (5%) patient. Notch signaling pathway and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway were universally and significantly changed. Major genomic alterations were in consistency with data from COSMIC, but frequencies of less common mutations were different. Conclusion. TP53 and RB1 inactivations were universally detected in SCLC. The Notch and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways were both significantly altered, implying potential actionable targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to assess the procedural and clinical results of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for nonraphe bicuspid aortic stenosis (AS) with coronary vs mixed cusp fusion.Background: It remains unclear whether cusp fusion morphology affects TAVR outcomes in patients with nonraphe bicuspid AS.Methods: This retrospective study enrolled consecutive patients with severe symptomatic AS and type-0 bicuspid aortic valve, who underwent TAVR at our institution between 2012 and 2017. TAVR outcomes were defined based on the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 recommendations.Results: Compared to patients with mixed cusp fusion (44/71), those with coronary cusp fusion (27/71) had a larger ellipticity index for the aortic annulus (21.9% ± 9.0% vs 15.6% ± 9.3%, p=0.007) and increased left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (31.1% ± 9.4% vs 26.9% ± 7.5%, p=0.04) but comparable rates of second valve implantation (15.9% vs 14.8%), mild paravalvular leakage (PVL, 38.5% vs 30.2%), permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM, 25.9% vs 15.9%), and 30-day mortality (7.4% vs 6.8%). Use of a first-generation transcatheter heart valve was associated with higher risk for mild PVL (odds ratio (OR) = 4.37; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.14-16.75; p=0.03) but not PPM (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.22-2.62; p=0.67), whereas a larger oversizing ratio tended to be associated with a higher PPM rate (OR = 1.49; 95% CI = 0.46-4.86; p=0.51) but lower incidence of mild PVL (OR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.19-1.35; p=0.17).Conclusions: In AS patients with type-0 bicuspid valves, cusp fusion morphology does not affect the procedural or clinical results of TAVR. Use of second-generation transcatheter heart valves may provide more favorable results in such patients. This trial is registered with NCT01683474. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Little has been reported on dietary choices and obesity in patients with valvular heart disease. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that obesity is prevalent in patients with aortic stenosis and that significant differences in heart-healthy dietary choices may be observed between obese and non-obese patients. Methods: Consecutive patients with severe or critical aortic stenosis (AS) were evaluated in a busy Heart Valve Clinic for consideration of surgical or transcatheter valve replacement. All patients underwent a detailed dietary evaluation with a rate your plate (RYP) questionnaire. Obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2. Dietary data was stratified according to presence of obesity. Data was analyzed by student's t-test for continuous data and chi-squared analysis for categorical data. Results: A total of 138 patients were evaluated; of these, 41 (29.7%) were obese. Overall there was no difference in the RYP score for obese and non-obese patients. However, obese patients scored significantly worse on RYP heart-healthy (HH) choices for fried foods and grains (table) with no significant differences in other categories. Conclusions: Obesity is common in patients with severe aortic stenosis. Self-reported heart-healthy choices differ only in categories of fried foods and grains (figure) which may be a good initial focus for nutritional intervention in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Limited date describing the procedural, clinical and valve performance results of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic stenosis (TAV). Methods Procedural and clinical results were defined and reported according to VARC-2 criteria. Results Consecutive 87 patients with BAV and 70 patients with TAV were included. Compared to patients with TAV, patients with BAV had similar incidence of second valve implantation (14.9% vs 12.9%, p = 0.708), more than mild paravalvular leakage (PVL, 40.2% vs 31.9%, p = 0.288), permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM, 24.1% vs 28.6%, p = 0.53). Furthermore, the procedural and clinical results of TAVR also did not differ between patients with type 0 and type 1 (second valve implantation: 18.4% vs 11.8%, p = 0.71, PVL: 38.8% vs 41.2%, p = 0.83, PPM: 18.4% vs 31.6%, p = 0.16). The hemodynamic outcomes were similar in patients with BAV and TAV at 1-year (maximum velocity, 2.3 vs 2.2 m/s, p = 0.307) and 2-year (2.3 vs 2.1 m/s, p = 0.184) follow-up respectively. Adjusted binary logistic regression analysis found oversizing ratio at 14.45–20.57% is at lower risk for more than mild PVL (OR, 0.069, 95% CI, 0.011–0.428, p = 0.004). Moreover, the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that TAVR in type 0 BAV, type 1 BAV and TAV have comparable risk for midterm mortality (Log rank, p = 0.772). Conclusion TAVR in whatever type of BAV appeared to be safe and efficacy, and TAVR in BAV was associated with comparable bioprosthetic function during follow up compared to patients with TAV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite strong evidence linking decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to worse cardiovascular outcome, the impact of eGFR on mortality in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with different left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) is not well defined. Methods A retrospective cohort study. From Jul. 2008 to Jan. 2012, consecutive patients with CAD of West China Hospital were enrolled and were grouped into 3 eGFR categories: ≥ 90, 60–90, and < 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . Patients with EF ≥ 50% or < 50% were defined as preserved EF or reduced EF, respectively. The endpoints were all-cause mortality and cardiac mortality. Results There are 2161 patients according to the inclusion criteria and follow-up requirement. The mean follow-up time was 30.97 ± 11.70 months. Cumulative survival curves showed that in patients with reduced EF, renal insufficiency significantly increases all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in a graded fashion (mortality rate, moderate or severe vs. normal: 29.3% vs. 5.4%, p < 0.001; cardiac mortality rate, moderate or severe vs. normal: 18.2% vs. 4.5%, p = 0.001, respectively). Cox regression analysis showed that in CAD patients with reduced EF, moderate to severe renal insufficiency increased all-cause mortality by 6.10-fold (HR 6.10, 95% CI 2.50 to 14.87) and cardiac mortality by 4.10-fold (HR 4.10, 95% CI 1.51 to 11.13). Use of beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and statins was associated with decreased risk of mortality, but the use was lower in renal insufficiency patients, especially in combination of reduced EF. Conclusion This study has found that the effect of renal function on prognosis in patients with CAD is closely related to cardiac function. In patients with reduced EF, renal insufficiency accompanies the higher risks of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. A higher number of treatments from beta-blocker, ACEIs or ARBs, and statin therapy were associated with decreased risk of mortality, even in the combination of renal insufficiency or declining cardiac function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microstructure heterogeneity of emulsion films impaired their physical performances. This work attempted to fabricate novel high-barrier chitosan (CH) emulsion films by manipulating emulsion's interface architecture via Pickering stabilization approach. Some selected physical properties, including tensile property, water vapor permeability (WVP), and oxygen permeability (OP) as well as the microstructure of the films were evaluated. Film-forming emulsions (FFEs) based on zein/chitosan colloid particles-stabilized Pickering emulsions (ZCCPEs) were extremely stable, evidenced by the similar droplets size and size distribution in the FFEs and film matrix, endowing the films with homogeneous distributions of lipid droplets over their 3D network matrix. Interestingly, emulsion films exhibited excellent oxygen-barrier efficiency, and the OP of the films was decreased by 1−4 orders of magnitude when compared with CH films. This phenomenon may be associated with the novel interfacial architecture of ZCCPEs as well as film microstructure morphology based on ordered assembles of CH matrix and ZCCPEs. A schematic diagram for the formation pathway of ZCCPEs-loaded CH emulsion films was proposed to establish structure-function relationships of the films. This study opens a promising pathway for producing emulsion films with excellent oxygen-barrier capability via Pickering stabilization principle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety of bivalirudin (Biv) versus heparin (Hep) with or without similar usage rate of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The PubMed and EMbase were searched. Randomized trials comparing Biv versus Hep were eligible for inclusion. With imbalanced GPI use, Biv had significantly lower major bleeding (pooled risk ratio [RR], 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-0.83) without difference in mortality (pooled RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.80-1.14). With comparable GPI use, no significant difference was observed in major bleeding (pooled RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.82-1.10) and mortality (pooled RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.85-1.50). With no GPI use, Biv was associated with numerically higher mortality (pooled RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.83-1.65) without significant difference in major bleeding (pooled RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.64-1.02). In conclusion, when comparing different anticoagulants during PCI, the effect of GPIs should not be underestimated. Heparin as such was found noninferior to Biv. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for simultaneous determination of 4-methylimidazole (4-MeI), 2-methylimidazole (2-MeI) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in beverages was developed using solid-phase extraction (SPE) and amino trap column coupled with pulsed amperometric detection (AMTC-PAD). A single amino trap column (P/N: 046122) was first applied to separate the targeted analytes in samples after SPE pretreatment. This method demonstrated low limit of quantification (0.030 mg/L for methylimidazoles and 0.300 mg/L for HMF) and excellent linearity with correlation of determination ( R 2 = 0.999 for 2-MeI, 0.997 for 4-MeI and 0.998 for HMF). Nearly no 2-MeI was found in all soft drinks. However, 4-MeI could be detected in cola drinks and soft drinks containing caramel colour (ranging from 0.13 to 0.34 mg/L), whereas HMF were only found in cola drinks (ranging from 1.07 to 4.47 mg/L). Thus, AMTC-PAD technique would be a valid and inexpensive alternative to analysis of 4-MeI, 2-MeI and HMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A new 4-tired classification of left ventricular hypertrophy ( LVH) based on LV concentricity and dilation has been proposed; however, the association between the new categorization of LV geometry and outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease ( CAD) is still unknown. Methods All the 2297 patients with CAD included underwent echocardiographic examination prior to discharge. Left ventricular mass ( LVM) was calculated, and left ventricular end-diastolic volume ( EDV) was indexed by body surface area ( BSA). Study cohort was divided into five groups according to LV geometry: (i) eccentric nondilated LVH (normal LVM/ EDV(2/3) and EDV/ BSA) ( n = 129); (ii) eccentric dilated LVH (normal LVM/ EDV(2/3) with increased EDV/ BSA) ( n = 222); (iii) concentric nondilated LVH (increased LVM/ EDV(2/3) with normal EDV/ BSA) ( n = 441); (iv) concentric dilated LVH (increased LVM/ EDV(2/3) and EDV/ BSA) ( n = 118); and (v) normal LV mass ( n = 1387). Results Dilated LVH was associated with a higher event rates of all-cause death (eccentric 13·1% vs. 3·1%; concentric 13·6% vs. 8·4%) and composite events (eccentric: 17·6% vs. 5·4%; concentric: 18·6% vs. 12·7%) compared with nondilated LVH. While eccentric nondilated LVH had comparable risk for adverse outcomes compared with normal LV mass (all-cause death: relative risk ( RR) 0·68, 95% confidential interval ( CI) 0·25-1·85; composite events: RR 0·75, 95% CI 0·36-1·58). Cox regression analyses showed that eccentric dilated LVH had the highest propensity to all-cause death (adjusted hazard ratio [ aHR] 2·752 [95% CI 1·749-4·328], P < 0·001) and composite events ( aHR 2·462 [95% CI 1·688-3·592], P < 0·001). Conclusion In patients with CAD, dilated LVH and nondilated LVH provide distinct prognostic information. Eccentric nondilated LVH does not predict adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous reports of percutaneous coronary intervention versus coronary artery bypass graft outcomes in coronary artery disease patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) were inconsistent. We evaluated the optimal revascularization strategy for CKD patients. We searched Pub Med, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and scanned the references of relevant articles and reviews. All studies that compared relevant clinical outcomes between percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass graft in CKD patients were selected. We defined short-term and long-term all-cause mortality as primary outcome, and long-term incidences of myocardial infarction and revascularization as secondary outcomes. A total of 2235 citations were retrieved, and 31 studies involving 99,054 patients, with 55,383 receiving percutaneous coronary intervention and 43,671 receiving coronary artery bypass graft, were included. In subgroup analyses of dialysis patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention with stents versus coronary artery bypass graft, CKD patients with multivessel coronary disease, and CKD patients receiving drug-eluting stent versus coronary artery bypass graft, the pooled outcomes revealed that percutaneous coronary intervention possessed lower short-term mortality, but higher late revascularization risk. No significant differences in long-term mortality were observed between the two strategies in these subgroup analyses. In conclusion, in some specific clinical circumstances, CKD patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention possessed lower short-term all-cause mortality, but higher long-term revascularization risk, than coronary artery bypass graft; long-term all-cause mortality was not different between the two strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beizhan iron deposit in Xinjiang is one of the important deposits of Awulale iron-copper-gold metallogenic belt in the western Tianshan. K-feldspar granite and K-feldspar granite porphyry, which have pulsating intrusive contact relationship, are exposed in the southern of iron district. Geochemical characteristics show that the rocks are high potassium calc-alkaline, enriched in large iron lithophile element (Rb and K), and relatively depleted in high field strength elements, and Ba, Sr, P and Ti are significantly negative anomaly; fractionation of light and heavy rare earth elements is obvious. Ages of K-feldspar granite and K-feldspar granite porphyry from Beizhan iron deposit are respectively (320.5±1.9) Ma and (306.8±1.6) Ma by the method of LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb dating. Combined with regional geological data, the geochemical and geochronological results show that K-feldpar granite and K-feldspar granite porphyry exposed have the same magma source, and probably form in the tectonic setting transformed from the subduction of southern Tianshan oceans to the continental collision orogeny from Early Carboniferous to Late Carboniferous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 plays a key role in clopidogrel activation and thus impacts the clinical outcome of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the majority of patients with CAD gradually discontinue clopidogrel after one year of discharge. This study explored whether the CYP2C19 gene polymorphism was associated with clinical events in patients with CAD after one year of discharge. Method: Between July 2008 and July 2009, 506 patients with CAD that was confirmed by coronary angiography were enrolled in this study, and their CYP2C19 genotype was determined. The primary endpoint events included cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction and nonfatal stroke. The secondary endpoint events included the components of the primary endpoint events, all-cause mortality and recurrent revascularisation. Result: The baseline clinical characteristics of CYP2C19*2-mutation carriers (homozygous *2/*2, n = 49; heterozygous *1/*2, n = 222) and non-carriers (wild-type allele *1/*1, n = 235) were comparable. The follow-up results showed that the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events within one year of discharge was significantly higher in carriers of the CYP2C19*2 homozygous genotype (*2/*2) than non-carriers (12.24% vs. 3.83%, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 4.651, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.566–13.814, p = 0.006). However, the follow-up results after one year of discharge showed that the risk of the CYP2C19*2 homozygous genotype were significantly reduced. New primary endpoint events during the second year after discharge had no significant correlation with the CYP2C19 genotype. Conclusion: The risk of cardiovascular events in CAD patients with a homozygous CYP2C19*2 mutation was significantly higher than in other patients within the first year after discharge. However, the adverse impact of the CYP2C19*2 polymorphism was significantly reduced after one year of discharge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present study was designed to analyze and compare phytochemical activities of four different cultivars of kiwifruit. Among all investigated varieties, Hua You (HY) and Cui Xiang (CUX) displayed the maximum concentration of phytochemical content, and the highest total phenolic results were observed in HY and CUX cultivars with 220.20 ± 1.12 mg GAE/100 g and 218.04 ± 1.11 mg GAE/100 g FW, respectively. Likewise, the richest total flavonoids results were estimated in red kiwifruit (RKF) and CUX varieties with 49.082 ± 0.14 mg CE/100 g FW and 48.327 ± 0.14 mg CE/100 g FW, respectively. Moreover, tests for oxygen radical scavenging capacity (ORAC) and peroxyl radical scavenging capacity (PSC) were observed maximum in RKF cultivar showing 131.229 ± 5.91 μM Trolox equivalent/g FW and 85.957 ± 11.75 μM vitamin C equivalent/g FW, respectively. Furthermore, the highest cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) with No PBS wash protocol was depicted in RKF 237.544 ± 4.12 μM QE equivalent/g FW with the lowest EC50 0.0128 mg/ml. In addition, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis confirmed the presence of ferulic acid, naringin, gallic acid, syringic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, protocatechuic acid, salicylic acid, and catechin in kiwifruit. Catechin as one main content in our study is consistent with the recent reports. The result suggested that the phytochemical profile and bioactivities were significantly affected by the type of cultivars. Practical applications: Kiwifruit is widely consumed over the world for its rich nutritious and medicinal values. Currently, phytochemicals are considered as one of the main bioactive components of kiwifruits, which are responsible for lots of bioactivities, such as antitumor, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic activities. There are varieties of kiwifruits, and the bioactive components and bioactivities are greatly affected by the cultivars. But there have been no comparative studies on the phytochemicals from different varieties. This study aimed to make a comprehensive assessments of the free, bound, and total phenolics and flavonoids, as well as the chemical‐based and cell‐based antioxidant activities of four different subspecies of kiwifruit. This work would be beneficial to elucidate the function differences of different kiwifruit phytochemicals, promote its further research, as well as provide a basis for selecting cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of triglyceride (TG) in secondary prevention of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) was debated. In the present study, we assessed the association between admission TG levels and long-term mortality risk in CAD patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted from a single registered database. 3061 consecutive patients with CAD confirmed by coronary angiography were enrolled and were grouped into 3 categories by the tertiles of admission serum TG levels. The primary end point in this study was all-cause mortality and the secondary end point was cardiovascular mortality. Results: The mean follow-up time was 26.9 ± 13.6 months and death events occurred in 258 cases and cardiovascular death events occurred in 146 cases. Cumulative survival curves indicated that the risk of all-cause death decreased with increasing TG level (Tertile 1 vs. Tertile 2 vs. Tertile 3 = 10.3% vs. 8.6% vs. 6.3%, log rank test for overall p = 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed an independent correlation between TG level and risk of all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58–0.86] and cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.51–0.89) in total patients with CAD. Subgroup analysis found the similar results in patients with acute coronary syndrome and acute myocardial infarction. Conclusions: This study found an inverse association between TG levels and mortality risk in CAD patients, which suggests that the "TG paradox" may exist in CAD patients. Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR-OOC-17010433. Registered 17 February 2017 - Retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diet and hyperlipidemia are correlated to coronary atherosclerosis, whose progression may be modulated by statin therapy. Aortic stenosis and calcification are atherosclerotic processes but they are not influenced by statin therapy. Limited data is available on the influence or correlates of diet on aortic valve calcification. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that diet may be related to aortic valve calcification (AVC) on computed tomography (CT). Methods: Consecutive patients with severe or critical aortic stenosis (AS) were evaluated in a busy Heart Valve Clinic and underwent both detailed dietary evaluation with a rate your plate (RYP) questionnaire and a high resolution CT as part of their work-up for valvular intervention (medical therapy, surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement). AVC volume was quantified using a validated method based on a higher threshold of detection from the contrast CT (850 Hounsfield Units, HU-850). Dietary data was separated according to patients in the highest tertile of AVC. Results: A total of 117 patients were evaluated. The upper tertile threshold of AVC was identified as 284.5 mm3 (figure: examples above and below this threshold are shown). Higher scores on RYP identify heart-healthy choices. There were no differences in the overall total RYP score or percentages of specific heart-healthy dietary choices according to AVC severity (table). Conclusions: AVC severity is unrelated to heart-healthy dietary choices in patients with aortic stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]