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Objective: The primary objective of this study is to investigate the fundamental patterns and characteristics of poverty-alleviation behavior strategies among rural poor population. It aims to examine the association between the key socio-demographic characteristics of these populations and their poverty-alleviation strategies, thereby identifying the individual and sociocultural factors related to these behaviors. Methods: This study employs a questionnaire designed to assess poverty-alleviation behavior strategies among rural poor population. Field surveys were conducted in over 80 natural villages across eight provinces and regions in central, northwestern, and southwestern China, involving 1,457 rural poor population. The data collected were analyzed using a questionnaire assessment method to explore the relationship between poverty-alleviation behavior strategies and socio-demographic factors. Results: Factor analysis indicates that the poverty-alleviation behavior strategies of rural poor population primarily manifest as fatalism, pragmatism, skepticism, and helplessness. Reliability and validity analyses demonstrate that the Poverty-alleviation Behavior Strategies Questionnaire exhibits high internal consistency reliability, composite reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. Hierarchical regression analysis reveals that socio-demographic characteristics such as health status, educational level, family size, main occupation, and income sources have predictive power regarding the formation of pragmatic and fatalistic poverty-alleviation strategies. Conclusion: Among the four types of poverty-alleviation behavior strategies identified among rural poor population, fatalistic and pragmatic strategies are critically significant for poverty-alleviation efforts and should receive heightened attention from poverty-alleviation workers. While socio-demographic characteristics have limited explanatory power for poverty-alleviation strategies, the sociocultural foundations of pragmatic and fatalistic strategies are relatively more pronounced. Improving the socio-demographic characteristics of rural poor population can, to some extent, facilitate the adoption of pragmatic poverty-alleviation strategies and mitigate the reliance on fatalistic strategies. This conclusion has practical implications for conducting poverty-alleviation work in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between folate concentrations and stroke risk remains unestablished, and the mediation effect of homocysteine (Hcy) and interaction effect of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T gene polymorphism has yet to be investigated. This cohort study involved 4903 subjects derived from a Chinese community population. The association between folate and first stroke was examined in Cox proportional hazard regression models. The mediation analyses involving Hcy and the undiscovered modification of the MTHFR C677T genotype were assessed. The mean (SD) age of subjects was 56.7 (8.8) years old, and 37.0% were male. A total of 407 strokes, 375 ischemic strokes and 47 hemorrhagic strokes occurred during the mean (SD) follow-up of 9.3 (1.8) years. The participants in the highest folate quartile (≥8.2 ng/mL) exhibited a lower stroke risk compared to those in the lowest quartile (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50–0.93, p = 0.017; p for trend = 0.009). Hcy significantly mediated 14.51% of the relationship between folate and stroke in the fully adjusted model. Only in individuals with the MTHFR 677CC genotype but not CT/TT genotype was folate adversely correlated with stroke (HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79–0.97, p for interaction = 0.026) and ischemic stroke (HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.80–0.98, p for interaction = 0.035). Insufficient folate concentrations were associated with a heightened 10-year stroke risk, in which Hcy concentrations played a crucial mediating role. MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism could potentially modify the folate–stroke relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obicetrapib is a selective cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor. Previous research has demonstrated similar pharmacokinetic (PK) responses to single doses of obicetrapib between Japanese and White males, but the PK responses have not been established in Chinese individuals. The purpose of this randomized, parallel, open‐label trial was to characterize the PK and pharmacodynamic (PD; CETP activity and plasma lipids) responses and safety of single doses (5, 10, or 25 mg; N = 36) and multiple doses (10 mg for 14 days; N = 12) of obicetrapib in healthy Chinese individuals. The maximum concentration and area under the drug concentration‐time curve of obicetrapib from 0 h to infinity increased with dose after all single doses of obicetrapib. After 7 consecutive days of dosing, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol reached their minimum and maximum changes of 42% reduction and 108% increase, respectively. Primary PK and PD parameters after single‐ and multiple‐dose administration of obicetrapib were similar to those in healthy white participants in previous studies. One participant in the 5 mg dose group experienced a treatment‐emergent adverse event of decreased white blood cell and neutrophil counts, which resolved without intervention. In conclusion, these findings support the inclusion of Chinese individuals in the ongoing phase 3 clinical development program of obicetrapib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fine particulate matter has been linked with acute coronary syndrome. Nevertheless, the key constituents remain unclear. Here, we conduct a nationwide case-crossover study in China during 2015–2021 to quantify the associations between fine particulate matter constituents (organic matter, black carbon, nitrate, sulfate, and ammonium) and acute coronary syndrome, and to identify the critical contributors. Our findings reveal all five constituents are significantly associated with acute coronary syndrome onset. The magnitude of associations peaks on the concurrent day, attenuates thereafter, and becomes null at lag 2 day. The largest effects are observed for organic matter and black carbon, with each interquartile range increase in their concentrations corresponding to 2.15% and 2.03% increases in acute coronary syndrome onset, respectively. These two components also contribute most to the joint effects, accounting for 31% and 22%, respectively. Our findings highlight tailored clinical management and targeted control of carbonaceous components to protect cardiovascular health. Fine particulate matter has been linked to acute coronary syndrome, but the key constituents remain unclear. Here, the authors show that organic matter and black carbon have the largest effects on acute coronary syndrome onset, and contributed most to the joint impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spot central and peripheral blood pressure are predictors for future hypertension, but the associations between central or peripheral systolic blood pressure (SBP) changes and new‐onset hypertension are unclear. Annual changes in central and peripheral SBP over a mean interval of 2.36 years were calculated for 815 Chinese community residents without cardiovascular disease and hypertension at the first two visits, with the formula: ([2nd SBP−1st SBP]/1st SBP) × 100%/time interval (years). The independent and joint associations of these SBP changes with new‐onset hypertension at the third visit were assessed with multivariable logistic regression models. During a mean follow‐up interval of 4.37 years since the second visit, 171 new cases of hypertension were observed. Central and peripheral SBP changes were significantly associated with new‐onset hypertension (central SBP change rate: odds ratio [OR]: 1.19 [95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.13, 1.26]; peripheral SBP change rate: OR: 1.25 [95% CI 1.17, 1.33]), even after adjusting for each other. Compared to the group with neither SBP increased, the group with both SBPs increased showed a significantly higher risk of new‐onset hypertension (OR: 4.52 [95% CI 2.54, 8.04]). The model including both SBP changes had a higher area under the curve (AUC) for predicting hypertension in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses than those with either change alone. Central and peripheral SBP changes are independently and jointly associated with new‐onset hypertension. It is recommended to regularly monitor both central and peripheral blood pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal‐catalyzed carbonylation functionalization reaction of alkenes is an attractive research area in modern organic chemistry. However, there have been very few reports on silver‐catalyzed reactions in carbonylation reactions. Herein we developed a silver‐catalyzed carbamoylation and carbonylative cyclization of alkenes with oxamic acids to obtain 2‐acetylamino‐1‐tetralone derivatives. Various desired cyclized products were formed in moderate to good yields through radical intermediates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the excess mortality and life-years lost associated with diabetes and prediabetes in China. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This national cohort study enrolled 135,405 participants aged 18 years or older from the general population in China. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate adjusted mortality rate ratio (RR). The life table method was used to estimate life expectancy. RESULTS: Among the 135,405 participants, 10.5% had diabetes and 36.2% had prediabetes in 2013. During a median follow-up of 6 years, 5517 deaths were recorded, including 1428 and 2300 deaths among people with diabetes and prediabetes, respectively. Diabetes and prediabetes were significantly associated with increased risk of all-cause (diabetes: RR, 1.61 [95% CI 1.49, 1.73]; prediabetes: RR, 1.08 [95% CI 1.01, 1.15]), and cardiovascular disease (diabetes: RR, 1.59 [95% CI 1.41, 1.78]; prediabetes: RR, 1.10 [95% CI 1.00, 1.21]) mortality. Additionally, diabetes was significantly associated with increased risks of death resulting from cancer, respiratory disease, liver disease, and diabetic ketoacidosis or coma. Compared with participants with normoglycemia, life expectancy of those with diabetes and prediabetes was shorter, on average, by 4.2 and 0.7 years at age 40 years, respectively. The magnitude of the associations of diabetes and prediabetes with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality varied by age and residence. CONCLUSIONS: In this national study, diabetes and prediabetes were significantly associated with reduced life expectancy and increased all-cause and cause-specific mortality risks. The disparities in excess mortality associated with diabetes and prediabetes between different ages and residences have implications for diabetes and prediabetes prevention and treatment programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon aerogels (CAs) have garnered significant attention due to their multifunctional applications. Biomass waste, abundantly generated by agriculture and industry, serves as a primary carbon source. However, developing a facile, sustainable, and efficient method to produce CAs from biomass waste remains challenging. In this study, a one‐step Zn2+ ion‐glue‐assisted carbonization technique was developed to produce large‐scale, high‐performance CAs. Various biomass materials (wood bits, peanut shells, bamboo bits, and straw waste) were treated in a molten salt system (ZnCl2/KCl) at 300 °C for 2 h to obtain large‐block CAs derived from biomass bits. Zn2+ ions cleave cellulose hydrogen bonds in natural biomass, facilitating the dehydration crosslinking reaction among cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, thus reconstructing the entire block structure. The resulting CAs exhibited high porosity (95 %) and low density (0.078 g/cm3). Numerous hydroxyl and carbonyl groups were preserved during the low‐temperature treatment, facilitating chemical modification for diverse applications. For instance, amidoxime functionalized CAs were utilized as filters for selective and highly efficient extraction of U(VI) from wastewater. The adsorption capacity and extraction efficiency reached 801.2 mg/g and 95 % with a flux rate of 6.1×103 L/m2 ⋅ h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon aerogels (CAs) have garnered significant attention due to their multifunctional applications. Biomass waste, abundantly generated by agriculture and industry, serves as a primary carbon source. However, developing a facile, sustainable, and efficient method to produce CAs from biomass waste remains challenging. In this study, a one‐step Zn2+ ion‐glue‐assisted carbonization technique was developed to produce large‐scale, high‐performance CAs. Various biomass materials (wood bits, peanut shells, bamboo bits, and straw waste) were treated in a molten salt system (ZnCl2/KCl) at 300 °C for 2 h to obtain large‐block CAs derived from biomass bits. Zn2+ ions cleave cellulose hydrogen bonds in natural biomass, facilitating the dehydration crosslinking reaction among cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, thus reconstructing the entire block structure. The resulting CAs exhibited high porosity (95 %) and low density (0.078 g/cm3). Numerous hydroxyl and carbonyl groups were preserved during the low‐temperature treatment, facilitating chemical modification for diverse applications. For instance, amidoxime functionalized CAs were utilized as filters for selective and highly efficient extraction of U(VI) from wastewater. The adsorption capacity and extraction efficiency reached 801.2 mg/g and 95 % with a flux rate of 6.1×103 L/m2 ⋅ h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims INTERASPIRE is an international study of coronary heart disease (CHD) patients, designed to measure if guideline standards for secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation are being achieved in a timely manner. Methods Between 2020 and 2023, adults hospitalized in the preceding 6–24 months with incident or recurrent CHD were sampled in 14 countries from all 6 World Health Organization regions and invited for a standardized interview and examination. Direct age and sex standardization was used for country-level prevalence estimation. Results Overall, 4548 (21.1% female) CHD patients were interviewed a median of 1.05 (interquartile range.76–1.45) years after index hospitalization. Among all participants, 24.6% were obese (40.7% centrally). Only 38.6% achieved a blood pressure (BP) < 130/80 mmHg and 16.6% a LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) of <1.4 mmol/L. Of those smoking at hospitalization, 48% persisted at interview. Of those with known diabetes, 55.2% achieved glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) of <7.0%. A further 9.8% had undetected diabetes and 26.9% impaired glucose tolerance. Females were less likely to achieve the targets: BP (females 36.8%, males 38.9%), LDL-C (females 12.0%, males 17.9%), and HbA1c in diabetes (females 47.7%, males 57.5%). Overall, just 9.0% (inter-country range 3.8%–20.0%) reported attending cardiac rehabilitation and 1.0% (inter-country range.0%–2.4%) achieved the study definition of optimal guideline adherence. Conclusions INTERASPIRE demonstrates inadequate and heterogeneous international implementation of guideline standards for secondary prevention in the first year after CHD hospitalization, with geographic and sex disparity. Investment aimed at reducing between-country and between-individual variability in secondary prevention will promote equity in global efforts to reduce the burden of CHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simplified rapid hydration has been proven to be non-inferior to standard hydration in preventing contrast-associated acute kidney injury among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing coronary angiography. The current investigation aimed to further confirm the feasibility and safety of the newly proposed hydration method-simplified rapid hydration (SH) in each risk stratification by Mehran risk score (MRS). Eligible patients (n = 954) randomized to the SH group and standard hydration group were allocated into 2 groups based on MRS: low to moderate-risk and high to very high-risk groups. Primary endpoints were the incidence of contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) and acute heart failure (AHF) (SH vs standard hydration). Secondary endpoints included serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cystatin-C (Cys-C), and C-reactive protein (CRP) at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after PCI procedure, and the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). MRS was associated with a higher incidence of CA-AKI (OR = 1.101, 95%CI 1.049–1.156, P < 0.001). In the low to moderate-risk and high to very-high-risk groups, the incidence of CA-AKI in the SH and standard hydration group was 3.3% versus 4.9% (P = 0.5342), 10% versus 12% (P = 0.6392), respectively. Meanwhile, there might be subtle differences in renal function indexes and inflammatory indicators between SH and the control group at different time points. The preventive effect of SH in CA-AKI was similar to standard hydration regardless of MRS-guided risk stratification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic studies of blood pressure (BP) traits to date have been performed on conventional measures by brachial cuff sphygmomanometer for systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP, integrating several physiologic occurrences. Genetic associations with central SBP (cSBP) have not been well-studied. Genetic discovery studies of BP have been most often performed in European-ancestry samples. Here, we investigated genetic associations with cSBP in a Chinese population and functionally validated the impact of a novel associated coiled-coil domain containing 93 (CCDC93) gene on BP regulation. An exome-wide association study (EWAS) was performed using a mixed linear model of non-invasive cSBP and peripheral BP traits in a Han Chinese population (N = 5,954) from Beijing, China genotyped with a customized Illumina ExomeChip array. We identified four SNP-trait associations with three SNPs, including two novel associations (rs2165468-SBP and rs33975708-cSBP). rs33975708 is a coding variant in the CCDC93 gene, c.535C>T, p.Arg179Cys (MAF = 0.15%), and was associated with increased cSBP (β = 29.3 mmHg, P = 1.23x10-7). CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing was used to model the effect of Ccdc93 loss in mice. Homozygous Ccdc93 deletion was lethal prior to day 10.5 of embryonic development. Ccdc93+/- heterozygous mice were viable and morphologically normal, with 1.3-fold lower aortic Ccdc93 protein expression (P = 0.0041) and elevated SBP as compared to littermate Ccdc93+/+ controls (110±8 mmHg vs 125±10 mmHg, P = 0.016). Wire myography of Ccdc93+/- aortae showed impaired acetylcholine-induced relaxation and enhanced phenylephrine-induced contraction. RNA-Seq transcriptome analysis of Ccdc93+/- mouse thoracic aortae identified significantly enriched pathways altered in fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial metabolism. Plasma free fatty acid levels were elevated in Ccdc93+/- mice (96±7mM vs 124±13mM, P = 0.0031) and aortic mitochondrial dysfunction was observed through aberrant Parkin and Nix protein expression. Together, our genetic and functional studies support a novel role of CCDC93 in the regulation of BP through its effects on vascular mitochondrial function and endothelial function. Author summary: More than 1000 loci have been reported in previous gene discovery efforts for blood pressure and hypertension. cSBP is a unique blood pressure trait that has not been as extensively studied as peripheral BP, and correlates of cSBP may provide a better indication of future cardiovascular events. In this study we replicated several BP associations in a Han Chinese cohort and found a novel association with a coding variant in CCDC93 (rs33975708, c.535C>T, p.Arg179Cys, MAF 0.15%) which was strongly associated with higher cSBP. To model loss of Ccdc93 and functionally validate the human genetic association, a new transgenic mouse was created. Ccdc93 homozygous deletion was embryonic lethal, and mice with heterozygous loss of Ccdc93 exhibited impaired arterial relaxation and enhanced contractile responses. Aortic RNA-seq analysis of Ccdc93+/- heterozygous mice identified metabolic dysregulation and mitochondrial dysfunction, which was validated by features of elevated plasma free fatty acids and increased aortic Parkin and Nix protein expression. Improved knowledge of the genes involved in BP regulation is needed to develop effective therapies to manage elevated BP, and this study identified the gene CCDC93 as a novel regulator of blood pressure and vascular function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Hypertension significantly contributes to stroke. Previous research has indicated a connection between daytime napping and stroke. Research on the connection between daytime napping duration and first stroke in hypertensive individuals is lacking nevertheless. Methods: This research, which ran from 24 August 2013 to 31 December 2022, recruited 11,252 individuals with hypertension and without a history of stroke from the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial. To determine the relationship between daytime napping duration and stroke onset in hypertensive individuals, we conducted analyses for threshold effects, multivariate‐adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression models, and Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Results: The duration of daytime napping (<75 min) was positively correlated with stroke risk; beyond 75 min, the risk did not increase further. When compared to hypertensive individuals who napped for 1–30 min, daytime napping 31–60 min (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06–1.53) and >60 min (HR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.14–1.65) were substantially related with a greater risk of first stroke. Additionally, this correlation was absent in cases of hemorrhagic stroke, but present in cases of ischemic stroke, specifically for hypertensive individuals who napped for 31–60 min or >60 min (p < 0.05). Kaplan–Meier survival curves displayed that hypertensive individuals who extended daytime napping had an elevated incidence of stroke. Conclusions: Hypertensive individuals who take longer daytime naps (>30 min) are at an elevated risk of stroke onset, particularly ischemic stroke, irrespective of other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research has been conducted on porcine miR-155 promoters, and previous study from our group have identified two haplotypes (TT and CC) in different pig breeds, each associated with five fully linked mutation sites within or near the miR-155 gene (Li et al. Dev Comp Immunol 39(1):110–116, 2013). In this study, the promoter region of porcine miR-155 was screened, and two important transcription factors, Foxp3 and RelA, were identified. The binding ability of Foxp3 protein was found to be affected by the first mutation site (A/C) using EMSA analysis. In vitro experiments revealed that the expression level of miR-155 was significantly higher in the C haplotype compared to the T haplotype. Additionally, northern blotting assays indicated that both the first mutation site (A/C) and the fourth mutation site (G/T) had a significant impact on miR-155 expression levels. These findings provide further insights into the transcriptional regulation of porcine miR-155 and identify crucial mutation sites that influence miR-155 expression. This knowledge can serve as a basis for identifying potential molecular markers associated with disease resistance in swine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through field outcrops observation and thin sections identification, the lithofacies types and lithofacies assemblage characteristics of the Middle Cambrian in the Qinglongshan Section of the Ordos Basin were studied. The types and characteristics of sedimentary facies and section faces were analyzed, and the sedimentary evolution model was established. The study shows that 13(LF-LF13) lithofacies types and 8 lithofacies assemblages in the Middle Cambrian of the Qinglongshan Section are identified. The lithofacies assemblages include bright crystal oolitic limestone and khaki argillaceous shale, particle-supported gravel limestone, bright crystal oolitic limestone and khaki argillaceous shale, mud crystal bioclassic limestone and khaki argillaceous shale, mud crystal oolitic limestone and khaki argillaceous shale, gray-green argillaceous shale and mud crystal oolitic limestone, banded limestone and radial gravel limestone, banded limestone and khaki argillaceous shale, spherulite-bearing powder crystal dolomite and khaki argillaceous shale. The carbonate gentle slope sedimentary system ss developed in the Middle Cambrian, which is mainly inner gentle slope fades. It can be divided into 4 subfacies and 10 microfacies. The subfacies contain tidal flat, lagoon, inter-beach sea and grain beach. In the Middle Cambrian, the Qinglongshan Section was in a carbonate ramp environment. With the eastward and northward transgression of the Qinqi Trough, the sedimentary center migrated eastward under the influence of the Qinglongxia-Guyuan Fault. The sedimentary fades belt changed from tidal flat-lagoon to grain beach-inter shoal sea, and finally changed into tidal flat deposition again due to the signs of sea retreat. The result provides a basis for the restoration in the paleoenvironment in the Ordos Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) have the advantages of translucency, color tunability, wide incident light angles, and high weak light sensitivity, so they are attractive for practical applications. Reducing the reabsorption loss and increasing the photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) are effective strategies to improve the efficiency of LSCs. However, materials possessing small reabsorption and high PLQY simultaneously are rare. In this work, we demonstrate a strategy to overcome the reabsorption obstacle by the Stokes shift synergistic engineering of active materials. For the first time, we designed and synthesized three new quasi-2D perovskite/PVDF composite films by a room temperature solution processing method. The composite films are able to combine energy-funneling and a positive transient Stark shift to achieve a high PLQY and large Stokes shift. The composite films exhibit high water stability and improved ultraviolet (UV) stability. The large area LSC device with a size of 10 × 10 cm2 exhibits a remarkable external optical efficiency (ηext) of up to 4.9%, which is the highest value reported among organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite LSCs. This work demonstrates that the Stokes shift synergistic engineering of quasi-2D perovskite/PVDF composites is an ideal strategy for constructing efficient and stable LSC devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of a large-scale quantum internet requires quantum repeaters containing multiple entangled photon sources with identical wavelengths. Semiconductor quantum dots can generate entangled photon pairs deterministically with high fidelity. However, realizing wavelength-matched quantum-dot entangled photon sources faces two difficulties: the non-uniformity of emission wavelength and exciton fine-structure splitting induced fidelity reduction. Typically, these two factors are not independently tunable, making it challenging to achieve simultaneous improvement. In this work, we demonstrate wavelength-tunable entangled photon sources based on droplet-etched GaAs quantum dots through the combined use of AC and quantum-confined Stark effects. The emission wavelength can be tuned by ~1 meV while preserving an entanglement fidelity f exceeding 0.955(1) in the entire tuning range. Based on this hybrid tuning scheme, we finally demonstrate multiple wavelength-matched entangled photon sources with f > 0.919(3), paving the way towards robust and scalable on-demand entangled photon sources for quantum internet and integrated quantum optical circuits. Realising scalable entangled photon sources with quantum dots requires compensating for both wavelength mismatches and exciton fine-structure splitting (FSS). So far, multiple QDs with the same emission wavelength and near-zero FSS have not been demonstrated. Here, the authors fill this gap, reaching high entanglement fidelity for multiple QDs tuned into resonance with each other or with Rb atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central blood pressure confers cardiovascular risk prediction ability, but whether the association between central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) and cardiovascular endpoints is independent of peripheral systolic blood pressure (pSBP) remains controversial. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to investigate the associations between cSBP and cardiovascular endpoints in models including and excluding pSBP, respectively. Observational studies assessing the risk of composite cardiovascular endpoints with baseline cSBP were searched in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to May 31, 2022. Risk of bias was assessed by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale, and random‐effects models were used to pool estimates. Finally, 48 200 participants from 19 studies with a mean age of 59.0 ± 6.9 years were included. Per 10 mmHg increase of cSBP was associated with higher risk of composite cardiovascular outcomes (risk ratio [RR]: 1.14 [95%CI 1.08–1.19]) and cardiovascular death (RR: 1.18 [95%CI 1.08–1.30]), and the associations still existed after adjusting for pSBP (RR: 1.13 [95%CI 1.05–1.21] for composite cardiovascular endpoints; RR: 1.25 [95%CI 1.09–1.43] for cardiovascular death). In pSBP‐unadjusted studies, increased cSBP was also associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality and stroke, but not in the pSBP‐adjusted studies. Both cSBP and pSBP were similarly significantly associated with composite cardiovascular endpoints in models containing them separately and simultaneously. cSBP was significantly associated with cardiovascular events, independently of pSBP. Central or peripheral SBP could supplement cardiovascular risk assessment besides each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of alarm detection and diagnosis tasks often results in a lack of alarm log data. Due to the strong rule associations inherent in alarm log data, existing data augmentation algorithms cannot obtain good results for alarm log data. To address this problem, this paper introduces a new algorithm for augmenting alarm log data, termed APRGAN, which combines a generative adversarial network (GAN) with the Apriori algorithm. APRGAN generates alarm log data under the guidance of rules mined by the rule miner. Moreover, we propose a new dynamic updating mechanism to alleviate the mode collapse problem of the GAN. In addition to updating the real reference dataset used to train the discriminator in the GAN, we dynamically update the parameters and the rule set of the Apriori algorithm according to the data generated in each epoch. Through extensive experimentation on two public datasets, it is demonstrated that APRGAN surpasses other data augmentation algorithms in the domain with respect to alarm log data augmentation, as evidenced by its superior performance on metrics such as BLEU, ROUGE, and METEOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed to examine the association of plasma homocysteine (Hcy) concentrations with a 10-year risk of all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality and to explore the modification effect of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T genetic polymorphism. This study included 5200 participants from a community-based Chinese population. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to analyze the associations of Hcy and MTHFR C677T genotype with all-cause and CV mortality. The possible modification effect of the MTHFR C677T genotype on the Hcy–mortality relationship was assessed. The individuals with Hcy concentrations ≥ 10 μmol/L had a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with Hcy < 10 μmol/L (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–2.68, p = 0.015). The risk of CV mortality increased by 2% per 1 μmol/L Hcy increment (HR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00–1.03, p = 0.036). Despite the MTHFR genotype alone not being correlated with the mortality, the relationship between Hcy and all-cause mortality was significant in the CC genotype compared with CT/TT genotype (p for interaction = 0.036). Elevated plasma Hcy concentrations were associated with an increased 10-year risk of all-cause and CV mortality among the Chinese population. MTHFR C677T genetic polymorphism could modify the association between Hcy and all-cause mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the association between persistent hypertension and the compromise of both micro‐ and macro‐circulatory functions is well recognized, a significant gap in quantitative investigations exploring the interplay between microvascular and macrovascular injuries still exists. In this study, the authors looked into the relationship between brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and hypertensive retinopathy in treated hypertensive adults. The authors conducted a cross‐sectional study of treated hypertensive patients with the last follow‐up data from the China Stoke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT) in 2013. With the use of PWV/ABI instruments, baPWV was automatically measured. The Keith‐Wagener‐Barker classification was used to determine the diagnosis of hypertensive retinopathy. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the connection between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy were determined using multivariable logistic regression models. The OR curves were created using a multivariable‐adjusted restricted cubic spline model to investigate any potential non‐linear dose‐response relationships between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy. A total of 8514 (75.5%) of 11,279 participants were diagnosed with hypertensive retinopathy. The prevalence of hypertensive retinopathy increased from the bottom quartile of baPWV to the top quartile: quartile 1: 70.7%, quartile 2: 76.1%, quartile 3: 76.7%, quartile 4: 78.4%. After adjusting for potential confounders, baPWV was positively associated with hypertensive retinopathy (OR = 1.05, 95% CI, 1.03–1.07, p <.001). Compared to those in the lowest baPWV quartile, those in the highest baPWV quartile had an odds ratio for hypertensive retinopathy of 1.61 (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.37–1.89, p <.001). Two‐piece‐wise logistic regression model demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy with an inflection point of 17.1 m/s above which the effect was saturated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical thin films with high-reflectivity (HR) are essential for applications in quantum precision measurements. In this work, we propose a coating technique based on reactive magnetron sputtering with RF-induced substrate bias to fabricate HR-optical thin films. First, atomically flat SiO2 and Ta2O5 layers have been demonstrated due to the assistance of radio-frequency plasma during the coating process. Second, a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) mirror with an HR of ∼99.999 328% centered at 1397 nm has been realized. The DBR structure is air-H{LH}19-substrate, in which the L and H denote a single layer of SiO2 with a thickness of 237.8 nm and a single layer of Ta2O5 with a thickness of 171.6 nm, respectively. This novel coating method would facilitate the development of HR reflectors and promote their wide applications in precision measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with ordinary concrete, coal gangue concrete (CGC) is limited by its poor mechanical properties and frost resistance, which seriously restricts its wide application in cold regions. In order to improve the resource utilization rate of coal gangue, this paper takes advantage of the 'overlapping effect', 'micro-aggregate filling effect' and 'volcanic ash effect' of fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) and the anti-cracking effect of basalt fiber (BF) to study their effects on the macro performance of CGC and the micro modification mechanism. Modified CGC was prepared by replacing cement with 20% total mineral additives and adding BF. Taking different fly ash and silica fume incorporation ratios (F/S) and the BF content as variables, the research was carried out from two scales of macro performance and microstructure. The results show that the mechanical properties and frost resistance of CGC can be significantly improved by adding mineral additives and BF, and the modification effect is better with a decrease in F/S. When F/S = 1, the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and flexural strength of the specimens increased by 13.73%, 8.37% and 4.27%, respectively. After 300 freeze–thaw cycles, the specimen was still not damaged by freezing and thawing. At the same time, keeping F/S = 3 unchanged and changing the BF content, it was found that the optimal content of BF was 0.15 vol% under the combined action of BF, FA and SF. In terms of microstructure, the addition of mineral additives and BF segregates and fills the macropores in the structure, greatly reducing the harmful pores and turning them into harmless and less harmful pores. When F/S = 1, the number of multi-harmful pores decreased by 16.89%, and the number of harmless pores and less harmful pores increased by 9.19%, which greatly optimized the pore structure and pore gradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spinel LiMn2O4 cathode has received substantial attention from researchers owing to its high voltage plateau, eco-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, its practical application has been impeded by severe capacity attenuation due to the Jahn–Teller effect and spontaneous disproportionation reaction. To overcome these issues, this study synthesized a series of manganese-based metal–organic frameworks with varying structures using aromatic carboxylic acids that contain different numbers of carboxyl groups as organic frameworks. These frameworks were then used as precursors for synthesizing spinel LiMn2O4 cathode materials. This approach aims to enhance capacity, cycle stability, and rate performance by reducing the diffusion resistance of lithium ions, exposing the (111) plane, and increasing the Mn3+ content. The LMO-PMA sample exhibited remarkable cycling stability (91.4% after 1000 cycles at 10C) and superior capacity (140.2 mA h g−1 at 0.2C, 113.1 mA h g−1 at 10C). This approach can be extended to the synthesis of other cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperhomocysteinemia with hypertension can synergistically increase the risk of stroke. The China stroke primary prevention trial showed that combining 0.8 mg folic acid (FA) with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) can effectively lower plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) and blood pressure (BP); and reduce first stroke risk by additional 21% compared to ACEI alone. However, intolerance to ACEI is common in Asians and amlodipine can be alternative. This is a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐controlled clinical trial (RCT) which evaluated whether amlodipine combined with FA is more efficacious than amlodipine alone in lowering tHcy and BP among Chinese hypertensive with hyperhomocysteinemia and intolerance to ACEI. 351 Eligible patients were randomly assigned by 1:1:1 ratio to receive amlodipine‐FA tablet daily (amlodipine 5 mg/FA 0.4 mg, A group); amlodipine 5 mg/FA 0.8 mg tablet daily (B group); amlodipine 5 mg daily (C group, control group). Follow‐up was conducted at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. The primary outcome was efficacy of lowering both tHcy and BP at the end of 8‐week treatment. Compared with C group, A group had a significantly higher rate of lowering both tHcy and BP (23.3% vs. 6.0%; Odds Ratio [OR], 8.68; 95% CI, 3.04‐24.78, P <.001); B group also had a higher rate of lowering both tHcy and BP (20.3% vs. 6.0%; OR: 5.90; 95% CI, 2.11‐16.47, P <.001). This RCT showed amlodipine combined with FA compared with amlodipine alone, each had significantly higher efficacy of lowering both tHcy and BP. No difference was found in BP‐lowering and occurrence of adverse events between the three groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lipid management with a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal of < 1.4 mmol/L is recommended for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and diabetes mellitus (DM) due to a high risk for adverse cardiovascular events. This study evaluated the lipid-lowering treatment (LLT) pattern and the LDL-C goal attainment rate in this special population. Methods: DM patients were screened from the observational Dyslipidemia International Study II-China study which assessed LDL-C goal attainment in Chinese ACS patients. The baseline characteristics between the LLT and no pre-LLT groups were compared. The proportions of patients obtaining LDL-C goal at admission and at 6-months, the difference from the goal, and the pattern of the LLT regimen were analyzed. Results: Totally 252 eligible patients were included, with 28.6% taking LLT at admission. Patients in the LLT group were older, had a lower percentage of myocardial infarction, and had decreased levels of LDL-C and total cholesterol compared to those in the no pre-LLT group at baseline. The overall LDL-C goal attainment rate was 7.5% at admission and increased to 30.2% at 6 months. The mean difference between the actual LDL-C value and LDL-C goal value dropped from 1.27 mmol/L at baseline to 0.80 mmol/L at 6 months. At 6 months, 91.4% of the patients received statin monotherapy, and only 6.9% received a combination of statin and ezetimibe. The atorvastatin-equivalent daily statin dosage was moderate during the study period. Conclusion: The low rate of lipid goal attainment observed was in line with the outcomes of other DYSIS-China studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently associated with β-adrenergic stimulation, especially in patients with structural heart diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the synergism of late sodium current (late INa) and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CaMKII)-mediated arrhythmogenic activities in β-adrenergic overactivation-associated AF. Monophasic action potential, conduction properties, protein phosphorylation, ion currents and cellular trigger activities were measured from rabbit-isolated hearts, atrial tissue and atrial myocytes, respectively. Isoproterenol (ISO, 1–15 nM) increased atrial conduction inhomogeneity index, phospho-Nav1.5 and phospho-CaMKII protein levels and late INa by 108%, 65%, 135% and 87%, respectively, and induced triggered activities and episodes of AF in all hearts studied (p < 0.05). Sea anemone toxin II (ATX-II, 2 nM) was insufficient to induce any atrial arrhythmias, whereas the propensities of AF were greater in hearts treated with a combination of ATX-II and ISO. Ranolazine, eleclazine and KN-93 abolished ISO-induced AF, attenuated the phosphorylation of Nav1.5 and CaMKII, and reversed the increase of late INa (p < 0.05) in a synergistic mode. Overall, late INa in association with the activation of CaMKII potentiates β-adrenergic stimulation-induced AF and the inhibition of both late INa and CaMKII exerted synergistic anti-arrhythmic effects to suppress atrial arrhythmic activities associated with catecholaminergic activation. This article is part of the theme issue 'The heartbeat: its molecular basis and physiological mechanisms'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have explored the relationship between air pollution and arrhythmia onset at the hourly level. We aimed to examine the association of exposure to air pollution with the onset of acute symptomatic arrhythmia at an hourly level. Methods: We conducted a nationwide, time-stratified, case–crossover study in China between 2015 and 2021. We obtained hourly information on the onset of symptomatic arrhythmia (including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial and ventricular premature beats and supraventricular tachycardia) from the Chinese Cardiovascular Association Database — Chest Pain Center (including 2025 certified hospitals in 322 cities). We obtained data on hourly concentrations of 6 air pollutants from the nearest monitors, including fine particles (PM2.5), coarse particles (PM2.5–10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO) and ozone. For each patient, we matched the case period to 3 or 4 control periods during the same hour, day of week, month and year. We used conditional logistic regression models to analyze the data. Results: We included a total of 190 115 patients with acute onset of symptomatic arrhythmia. Air pollution was associated with increased risk of onset of symptomatic arrhythmia within the first few hours of exposure; this risk attenuated substantially after 24 hours. An interquartile range increase in PM2.5, NO2, SO2 and CO in the first 24 hours after exposure (i.e., lag period 0–24 h) was associated with significantly higher odds of atrial fibrillation (1.7%–3.4%), atrial flutter (8.1%–11.4%) and supraventricular tachycardia (3.4%–8.9%). Exposure to PM2.5–10 was associated with significantly higher odds of atrial flutter (8.7%) and supraventricular tachycardia (5.4%), and exposure to ozone was associated with higher odds of supraventricular tachycardia (3.4%). The exposure–response relationships were approximately linear, without discernible concentration thresholds. Interpretation: Exposure to air pollution was associated with the onset of symptomatic arrhythmia shortly after exposure. This finding highlights the importance of further reducing air pollution and taking prompt protective measures for susceptible populations during periods of elevated levels of air pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal denervation (RDN) is proposed as a durable and patient compliance independent treatment for hypertension. However, 20–30% non-responder after RDN treatment weakened the therapeutic effect, which may be due to blind ablation. The renal nerve mapping/selective ablation system developed by SyMap Medical Ltd (Suzhou), China, has the function of mapping renal sympathetic/parasympathetic nerve sites and selectively removing renal sympathetic nerves and is expected to meet the urgent unmet clinical need of targeted RDN. The "Sympathetic Mapping/Ablation of Renal Nerves Trial" (SMART) is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, single-blinded, sham procedure-controlled trial, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of targeted renal sympathetic denervation in patients with essential and uncontrolled hypertension. The study is the first clinical registry trial using a targeted RDN for the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension; the dual-endpoint design can answer the question of how many antihypertensive drugs can be reduced in patients after RDN. The trial is registered on clinicaltrials.gov NCT02761811. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulated evidence has shown that carotid‐femoral and brachial‐ankle PWV well predict cardiovascular events but it is still unclear if the predictability is same or not. In this cross‐sectional study based on a community atherosclerosis cohort in Beijing, China, a total of 5282 participants without previous coronary heart disease and stroke were enrolled from a community atherosclerosis cohort in Beijing, China. The 10‐year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk were calculated by the China‐PAR model, and < 5%, 5%–10% and > 10% were defined as low, intermediate, and high risk, respectively. The average baPWV and cfPWV values were 16.63 ± 3.35 m/s and 8.45 ± 1.78 m/s, respectively. The mean 10‐year ASCVD risk was 6.98% (interquartile range: 3.90%–12.01%). The patients with low, intermediate, and high 10‐year ASCVD risk accounted for 34.84% (1840), 31.94% (1687),, and 33.23% (1755) respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that for every 1 m/s increase in baPWV and cfPWV, the 10‐year ASCVD risk increased by 0.60% (95% confidence interval: 0.56%–0.65%, p <.001) and 1.17% (95% confidence interval: 1.09%–1.25%, p <.001), respectively. The diagnostic ability of the baPWV was comparable to the cfPWV (area under the curve: 0.870 [0.860–0.879] vs. 0.871 [0.861–0.881], p =.497). In conclusion, baPWV and cfPWV are positively associated with the 10‐year risk of ASCVD in the Chinese community‐based population, with a nearly identical association with a high 10‐year risk of ASCVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We investigated the association between albuminuria and hypertensive retinopathy (HR) in hypertensive adults. Methods: This was a cross-sectional subgroup analysis of data from the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial. We enrolled 2,964 hypertensive adults in this study. Keith-Wagener-Barker stages was used to assess HR. The urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) was calculated to evaluate albuminuria. Results: HR was found in 76.6% (n = 2, 271) of the participants, albuminuria was found in 11.1% (n = 330). The UACR levels were significantly higher in subjects with HR than in those without HR (grade 1, β = 1.42, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: -0.12, 2.95, p = 0.070; grade 2, β = 2.62, 95% CI: 0.56, 4.67, p = 0.013; grade 3, β = 5.17, 95% CI: 1.13, 9.20, p = 0.012). In the subgroup analyses, the association between HR and UACR was stronger in current smokers (p for interaction = 0.014). The correlation between HR grades 1 and 2 and UACR was stronger in subjects with higher triglyceride levels (≥ 1.7 mmol/L), but for grade 3 HR, this correlation was stronger in subjects with lower triglycerides levels (< 1.7 mmol/L, p for interaction = 0.023). The odds of albuminuria were significantly higher in subjects with HR than in those without HR (grade 1, odds ratio [OR] = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.29, p = 0.019; grade 2, OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.28, 3.18, p = 0.002; grade 3, OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 0.99, 4.55, p = 0.053). In the subgroup analyses, the association between HR grades 1 and 2 and albuminuria was stronger in subjects with higher triglycerides levels (≥ 1.7 mmol/L), but for grade 3 HR, this correlation was stronger in subjects with lower triglyceride levels (< 1.7 mmol/L, p for interaction = 0.014). Conclusion: HR was positively correlated with albuminuria in hypertensive Chinese adults. This correlation was more remarkable when the population was stratified by triglycerides levels and smoking status. HR can be used as an indicator of early renal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cathodes must accommodate the excellent performance of the applied anodes in lithium batteries. Li-rich Mn-based cathode materials with a specific capacity beyond 250 mAh·g−1 are considered some of the most promising cathode materials, although they suffer from some unsolved problems. In this paper, a series of Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6-xAlxO2 cathodes with an in situ-synthesized Li2CO3 coating layer by a one-step method is utilized to enhance their electrochemical performance by inhibiting the transition from a layered structure to a spinel structure and reducing the generation of Mn3+. The Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.56Al0.04O2@Li2CO3 coating sample exhibits an excellent capacity retention rate of 89.5% and a small voltage decay of 1.11 mV per cycle after 200 cycles at 1 C. Lithium-ion full cells composed of Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.56Al0.04O2@Li2CO3 and graphite show an energy density of 443.7 Wh·kg−1 at 0.1 C, and the capacity retention rate is 95.6% after 200 cycles at 1 C. These results offer prospects for satisfying the high energy density requirements of electric equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace metal element required for optimal human health. However, few studies have assessed the Mn status in hypertensive patients, especially in China. Moreover, factors associated with Mn status have not yet been thoroughly explored. Therefore, we aimed to assess the serum Mn status of adults with hypertension in China and its association with demographic factors. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted to assess serum Mn concentrations in 14 provinces of China. A total of 2597 patients with hypertension were randomly identified by sex, age, and district, and serum Mn concentrations were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results: In our study population, the median serum Mn levels were 1.60 (interquartile range (IQR), 0.94–2.85) µg/L for males and 1.51 (IQR, 0.86–2.69) µg/L for females. In adjusted linear regression models, significantly higher serum Mn concentrations were found in summer (compared with spring, β, 1.06 µg/L, 95% CI: 0.62 to 1.50), and those living in Guangxi (compared with Heilongjiang, β, 0.81, 95% CI: 0.06 to 1.56), Shanxi (compared with Heilongjiang, β, 0.75, 95% CI: 0.01 to 1.50), and Liaoning (compared with Heilongjiang, β, 1.65, 95% CI: 0.91 to 2.38), and significantly lower serum Mn concentrations were found in patients who aged 60–70 years (compared with those aged < 60 years, β, − 0.40 μg/L, 95% CI: − 0.76 to − 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings observed high serum Mn status among Chinese adults with hypertension, and revealed the association between terms of age, region, and season with serum Mn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left ventricular (LV) geometry is closely associated with cardiovascular disease; however, few studies have evaluated the relationship between basal septal hypertrophy (BSH) and LV geometry. In this study, we examined the relationship between BSH and LV geometry in a Beijing community population. Methods: The clinical and echocardiographic data of 1032 participants from a community in Beijing were analyzed. BSH was defined as a basal interventricular septal thickness ≥ 14 mm and a basal septal thickness/mid-septal thickness ≥ 1.3. On the basis of their echocardiographic characteristics, patients were described as having a normal geometry, concentric remodeling, concentric hypertrophy, or eccentric hypertrophy. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between BSH, LV mass index (LVMI), and relative wall thickness (RWT). Results: The prevalence of BSH was 7.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.8–9.0%). Basal and middle interventricular septal thickness, LV posterior wall thickness, and RWT were greater, while LVMI and LV end-diastolic dimension were lower in the BSH group than in the non-BSH group (p < 0.05). The BSH group accounted for the highest proportion of patients with concentric remodeling. A multivariable regression analysis showed that BSH increased by 3.99-times (odds ratio [OR] 3.99, 95% CI 2.05–7.78, p < 0.01) when RWT was > 0.42, but not when LVMI increased (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.02–1.19, p = 0.07). There were no interactions between BSH and age, body mass index, sex, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, stroke, and smoking in relation to an RWT > 0.42. Conclusion: BSH was independently associated with an RWT > 0.42. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rapid reperfusion of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has been challenging during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. Whether and to what degree there will be a residual impact when the COVID-19 pandemic has passed is unclear. Methods: This nationwide retrospective study was based on electronic records of STEMI patients registered in the Chinese Cardiovascular Association Database. Results: We analyzed 141,375 STEMI patients (including 4871 patients in Hubei province, where 80% of COVID-19 cases in China occurred in 2019–2020) during the pre-outbreak (23 October 2019–22 January 2020), outbreak (23 January 2020–22 April 2020), and post-outbreak (23 April 2020–22 July 2020) periods. In the post-outbreak period in Hubei province, the increased in-hospital mortality dropped to become insignificant (adjusted odds ratio compared to the pre-outbreak level (aOR) 1.40, [95% confidential interval (CI): 0.97–2.03]) and was lower than that in the outbreak period (1.62 [1.09–2.41]). The decreased odds of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (0.73 [0.55–0.96]) and timely reperfusion (0.74 [0.62–0.88]) persisted, although they were substantially improved compared to the outbreak period (aOR of primary PCI: 0.23 [0.18–0.30] and timely reperfusion: 0.43 [0.35–0.53]). The residual impact of COVID-19 on STEMI in the post-outbreak period in non-Hubei provinces was insignificant. Conclusions: Residual pandemic impacts on STEMI management persisted after the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Hubei province, the earliest and hardest hit area in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is the most widely used measurement of arterial stiffness in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the relationships between carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and brachial‐ankle PWV (baPWV) and the presence of carotid plaque. This study was designed cross‐sectionally and included 6027 participants from a community‐based cohort in Beijing. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate and compare the associations of cfPWV and baPWV with the presence of carotid plaque. The mean (SD) cfPWV and baPWV were 8.55 ± 1.83 and 16.79 ± 3.36, respectively. The prevalence of carotid plaque was 45.26% (n = 2728). Both cfPWV (per 1 m/s increase: OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.07–1.16) and baPWV (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) were independently associated with carotid plaque after adjusting for various confounders. Compared with bottom quartile (cfPWV ≤7.31 m/s and baPWV ≤14.44 m/s), the top quartile of cfPWV and baPWV had a significantly higher prevalence of carotid plaque (for cfPWV: OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.32–1.92; for baPWV: OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.26–1.86). However, the relationship of baPWV and carotid plaque was nonlinear, with a positive trend only when baPWV < 16.85 m/s. When comparing relationships between PWV indices and carotid plaque in one model, both cfPWV and baPWV were significantly associated with carotid plaque in participants with baPWV < 16.85 m/s; however, only cfPWV was independently associated with carotid plaque in participants with baPWV ≥16.85 m/s. Both cfPWV and baPWV were significantly associated with carotid plaque in the Chinese community‐based population. Furthermore, cfPWV was more strongly correlated with carotid plaque than baPWV in participants with baseline baPWV ≥16.85 m/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The kidney has the highest level of selenium (Se) in the body, but the role of plasma Se in chronic kidney disease is uncertain. Objective We aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between baseline plasma Se and renal function decline in adults with hypertension and to explore possible effect modifiers. Methods This was a post hoc analysis of 935 men and women with hypertension aged 40 to 75 years from a folic-acid intervention trial (the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial) in China. The baseline plasma Se was analyzed both as a continuous variable and as tertiles. The primary outcome was a rapid decline in renal function, defined as a mean decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≥ 5 mL/(min × 1.73 m2) per year. Results The median follow-up duration from baseline to outcome was 4.4 years. After multivariate adjustment, there was an inverse association between plasma Se and a rapid decline in renal function (per 10-unit increment; OR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.73, 0.99). When the baseline plasma Se was assessed as tertiles, compared to the lowest tertile (<74.5 μg/L), a lower trend of the primary outcome was found in the second tertile (74.5 to < 89.4 μg/L; OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.34, 1.07) and the highest tertile (89.4 to <150 μg/L; OR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.80; P trend = 0.006). Furthermore, the Se-renal association was more pronounced among participants with folic acid treatment or with a higher baseline folate concentration (both P interaction values < 0.05). Conclusions In this sample of Chinese adults with hypertension, baseline plasma Se concentrations were inversely associated with the risk of renal function decline. The China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00794885. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]