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Abstract Background Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious complication of diabetes, leads to structural and functional abnormalities of the heart and ultimately evolves to heart failure. IL-37 exerts a substantial influence on the regulation of inflammation and metabolism. Whether IL-37 is involved in DCM is unknown. Methods The plasma samples were collected from healthy controls, diabetic patients and DCM patients, and the level of IL-37 and its relationship with heart function were observed. The changes in cardiac function, myocardial fibrosis and mitochondrial injury in DCM mice with or without IL-37 intervention were investigated in vivo. By an in vitro co-culture approach involving HG challenge of cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts, the interaction carried out by cardiomyocytes on fibroblast profibrotic activation was studied. Finally, the possible interactive mediator between cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts was explored, and the intervention role of IL-37 and its relevant molecular mechanisms. Results We showed that the level of plasma IL-37 in DCM patients was upregulated compared to that in healthy controls and diabetic patients. Both recombinant IL-37 administration or inducing IL-37 expression alleviated cardiac dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis in DCM mice. Mechanically, hyperglycemia impaired mitochondria through SIRT1/AMPK/PGC1α signaling, resulting in significant cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the release of extracellular vesicles containing mtDNA. Fibroblasts then engulfed these mtDNA-enriched vesicles, thereby activating TLR9 signaling and the cGAS-STING pathway to initiate pro-fibrotic process and adverse remodeling. However, the presence of IL-37 ameliorated mitochondrial injury by preserving the activity of SIRT1-AMPK-PGC1α axis, resulting in a reduction in release of mtDNA-enriched vesicle and ultimately attenuating the progression of DCM. Conclusions Collectively, our study demonstrates a protective role of IL-37 in DCM, offering a promising therapeutic agent for this disease. Graphical abstract Hyperglycemia aggravates mitochondrial injury through SIRT1/AMPK/PGC1α signaling, resulting in significant cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the release of extracellular vesicles containing mtDNA in DCM mice. Fibroblasts then engulf these mtDNA-enriched vesicles, activating TLR9 signaling and the cGAS-STING pathway to initiate profibrotic process and adverse remodeling. However, both exogenous and endogenous IL-37 ameliorate mitochondrial injury by preserving the activity of SIRT1-AMPK-PGC1α axis, and reducing the release of mtDNA-enriched vesicles, which attenuates the progression of DCM

Through statistical analysis of the red tides that occurred in the coastal waters of Tianjin from 2001—2020, it was found that in recent years, the occurrence of red tide in Tianjin coastal seawater exhibits high-frequency, small-scale characteristics. The annual cumulative duration of red tide from 2012 to 2020 shows a general increasing trend, which is mainly controlled by DIP. Summer months were the peak periods of red tide, especially in June and August, the duration of a single red tide was long. Red tide causing species was evolving toward dinoflagellates in the Tianjin coastal seawater. Noctiluca scintillans, Skeletonema costatum and Pseudo-nitzschia pungens caused the most red tide, these three types of algae have the characteristic of alternating over time to become the causing species, mainly due to their adaptability to the hydrological environment. Toxic red tides mainly occurred from June to September, the red tides that occurred in September were mostly toxic. The toxic red tide species in Tianjin coastal waters are mostly Cochlodinium polykrikoides and Gymnodinium mikimotoi.

Fragrant peanut oils (FPOs) are commonly defined as edible peanut oils having strong natural roasted peanut flavor without peculiar unpleasant odors and produced from peanut kernels through roasting/steaming and pressing operations, etc. The flavor of FPOs plays a crucial role in their acceptability and applications and their flavor profiles are an important factor in determining their overall quality. This paper presents a systematic literature review of recent advances and knowledge on FPOs, especially their flavors, in which it is focused on the evaluation of volatile compounds, the factors influencing the formation of flavor compounds, and formation mechanisms of those typical flavor compounds. More than 300 volatiles are found in FPOs, while some key aroma-active compounds and their potential formation pathways are examined. Factors that have big influences on flavor are discussed also, including the properties of raw materials, processing technologies, and storage conditions. Ultimately, the paper highlights the challenges facing, including the challenges in flavor analysis, the relationship between volatile compounds and sensory attributes, as well as the opening of the blackboxes of flavor formations during the processing steps, etc.

Abstract. Background:. Preliminary studies have indicated that Shexiang Baoxin Pill (MUSKARDIA) has a coronary artery dilation effect and increases the coronary blood flow, relieving the symptoms of angina. This study aimed to evaluate the benefit of MUSKARDIA on patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods:. This was a subgroup analysis of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled phase IV trial. CAD patients with a medical history of DM or baseline fasting blood glucose (FBG) ≥7.0 mmol/L were grouped according to the treatment (standard therapy plus MUSKARDIA or placebo). The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), which was the composite outcome of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke. The secondary outcome was the composite outcome of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina or heart failure, and coronary angioplasty. Results:. MACEs occurred in 2.6% (9/340) and 4.8% (18/376) of patients in the MUSKARDIA and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.192). Secondary composite outcome was significantly less frequent with MUSKARDIA than with placebo (15.3% [52/340] vs. 22.6% [85/376], P = 0.017). Risk of MACEs (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.31–1.57) was comparable between two groups. In patients with uncontrolled DM (≥4 measurements of FBG ≥7 mmol/L in five times of follow-up), the risk of secondary outcome was significantly lower with MUSKARDIA (5/83, 6.0%) than with placebo (15/91, 16.5%) (HR = 0.35, 95%CI: 0.13–0.95). Conclusion:. As an add-on to standard therapy, MUSKARDIA shows a trend of reduced MACEs in patients with stable CAD and DM. Furthermore, MUSKARDIA may reduce the frequency of all-cause death, hospitalization, and coronary angioplasty in this population, especially in those with uncontrolled DM. Trial Registration:. ChiCTR.org.cn, ChiCTR-TRC-12003513

It has been reported that vanillin has been intentionally added to enhance the taste and flavor of low-quality vegetable oils. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the accurate concentrations of vanillin in three types of fragrant vegetable oils commonly consumed in China. In this study, a method has been developed for the quantification of vanillin in commercial fragrant vegetable oils using the stable isotope dilution assay (SIDA) and headspace–solid-phase microextraction (HS–SPME) coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of the analyte were determined to be 20 µg kg−1 and 50 µg kg−1, respectively. The validation study demonstrated that the recoveries ranged from 89% to 101%, with intra-day and inter-day precision being less than 7.46%. A survey of 80 commercially available fragrant vegetable oils was performed using the present method. Vanillin was found to be widely present in fragrant vegetable oils, with sesame oils showing the highest average content (842.6 µg kg−1), followed by rapeseed oils (262.1 µg kg−1) and peanut oils (115.0 µg kg−1). The results indicate that the proposed method is a simple, accurate, and eco-friendly approach for determining the presences of vanillin in fragrant vegetable oils.

Abstract Background Three dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D STE) is a novel technique combining 3D echocardiography and speckle tracking analysis. 3D STE software dedicated to the left atrium (LA) was recently available. Our study aimed to assess (1) atrial fibrillation (AF) related LA morpho-functional remodeling using 3D STE and (2) value of LA function parameters in identifying paroxysmal AF (PAF). Methods One hundred thirty-nine PAF, 109 persistent AF (Per-AF) and 59 non-AF subjects underwent 3D STE. LA phasic volumes and total LA emptying fraction (LAEF) were obtained and used to calculate passive (pLAEF) and active LA emptying fraction (aLAEF) based on atrial contraction. LA longitudinal and circumferential strain representing reservoir (LASr/LASrc), conduit (LAScd/LAScdc) and pump (LASct/LASctc) function were also assessed. Results 3D STE was found to have good reproducibility. Increase of LA volumes and decrease of parameters representing LA reservoir and pump function were independently associated with AF as well as AF burden. The correlations between LA emptying fraction and LA circumferential strain representing the same function were always stronger than those with LA longitudinal strain (p 0.8) with great sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions Assessing LA remodeling in AF using 3D STE was feasible. AF and AF burden were independently associated with LA enlargement and impairment of reservoir and pump function but not conduit function. LA function parameters can indicate underlying PAF and thus can guide AF screening strategy.

BackgroundA previous phase IV trial revealed sex as a potential effect modifier of MUSKARDIA efficacy in stable coronary artery disease (CAD).ObjectiveTo assess the clinical effect of MUSKARDIA as a supplemental treatment to optimal medical therapy (OMT) in stable CAD cases.MethodsThis study was a subgroup analysis of a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled phase IV clinical study. Eligible individuals underwent randomization to the oral MUSKARDIA and placebo groups and were treated for 24 months. All participants received OMT according to existing guidelines. The primary composite outcome was the major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), included cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), or non-fatal stroke. The secondary composite outcome encompassed all-cause mortality, non-fatal MI, non-fatal stroke, hospitalization for unstable angina and/or heart failure, and undergoing coronary procedure/surgery during treatment. Safety signals, especially cardiovascular adverse events (AEs), were analyzed.ResultsThe female subgroup included 776 participants (384 and 392 in the MUSKARDIA and placebo groups, respectively). The occurrence of the primary composite outcome was lower in the MUSKARDIA group compared with placebo-treated individuals (HR = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.09–0.83; P = 0.02), but the secondary composite outcome showed no significant difference (HR = 0.77, 95%CI: 0.47–1.25; P = 0.29). The MUSKARDIA group had reduced incidence of cardiovascular AEs compared with placebo-treated cases (2.9% vs. 5.6%).ConclusionAs a supplemental treatment to OMT, 24-month administration of MUSKARDIA is effective and safe in female stable CAD cases.Clinical trial registration[https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [NCT01897805].

Abstract Background Hypertension is highly prevalent and is one of the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular outcomes. Isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH), however, tends to be ignored due to insufficient recognition. We sought to depict the clinical manifestation of IDH and isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) to find a more efficient way to improve the management. Methods Patients with primary hypertension aged over 18 years were investigated from all over the country using convenience sampling during 2017–2019. IDH was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP)

BackgroundBariatric surgery is an effective method for severe obesity and its related comorbidities, in which inflammation plays a crucial role. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes of Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and to explore the related factors including gender.MethodsWe retrospectively included 72 patients undergoing LSG in our hospital from 2017 to 2020. Clinical information, laboratory investigations as well as parameters derived from traditional and 2D strain echocardiography were collected. Univariate logistic model was used in myocardial performance index (MPI) and E/E′ analysis. Univariate and Multivariate logistic model were used in NLR analysis.ResultsAt baseline, all patients had normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The myocardial performance index (MPI) (OR = 1.218 (95%CI 1.040, 1.426); p = 0.0142) and E/E′ (OR = 1.364 (95%CI 1.124, 1.655); p = 0.0017) were independently associated with CRP. LSG led to a significant decrease in inflammatory markers (NLR, 2.4 ± 1.59 vs.1.7 ± 0.86; CRP, 5.6 ± 3.17 vs. 2.1 ± 2.35 mg/L, respectively, both p

Abstract Background Autophagy plays a crucial role in the pathological process of cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the pathological mechanism underlying autophagy regulation in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Methods We explored whether up-regulating autophagy could improve cardiac function in mice with experimental DCM through the mTOR-4EBP1 pathway. Animal model of DCM was established in BALB/c mice by immunization with porcine cardiac myosin. Both up- or down-regulation of autophagy were studied by administration of rapamycin or 3-MA in parallel. Morphology, Western blotting, and echocardiography were applied to confirm the pathological mechanisms. Results Autophagy was activated and autophagosomes were significantly increased in the rapamycin group. The collagen volume fraction (CVF) was decreased in the rapamycin group compared with the DCM group (9.21 ± 0.82% vs 14.38 ± 1.24%, P

Abstract Background With the rising utilization of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), infections secondary to device implantation are increasingly encountered. Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci are usually the predominant causative organisms. A CIED infection due to non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) is extremely rare. Case presentation A 68-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with a history of pain and swelling at his cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) pocket site, for 4 days. The CRT-D had been implanted 2 weeks prior. The exudate smear was positive for acid-fast bacilli and culture results revealed rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacteria (RGM). After an urgent removal of the device followed by 1 year of antibiotic treatment, the patient was completely cured. A new device was finally implanted, 3 years later. Conclusions Infections caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria following the implantation of cardiac devices are very rare. The typical manifestations of post-implantation CIED infections caused by RGMs include an early onset, with local redness, swelling, and spontaneous drainage. Systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue are absent. Mycobacterium fortuitum is the most common species of RGM implicated in CIED infections, the manifestations of which usually appear within several weeks of the implantation procedure. An urgent removal of the device and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential therapeutic measures. This is the first such reported case, in which the patient has been re-implanted with another device at the same site, after achieving a complete cure. We followed-up the patient for an additional 3 years and observed that the patient remained free of infection. Our case report shows that though an RGM infection is rare and difficult to treat, it can be completely cured. In addition, we demonstrated that it is subsequently possible to safely re-implant a CIED for the patient, at the same site.

Objective To evaluate the protective effect of pravastatin on atherosclerotic development and inflammatory monocyte subset in atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E (ApoE) −/− mice after myocardial infarction (MI). Methods Male ApoE −/− mice (8 weeks old) were fed a high-fat diet for 14 weeks throughout the experiment. A MI model was produced using 18-week-old ApoE −/− mice. They were randomly divided into three groups: sham group, MI group, and MI+Pra group (40 mg/kg/day pravastatin). After 4 weeks (at the end of the study period), the mice were sacrificed and cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. Aortic lesion areas were evaluated using oil red O staining. Plaque macrophage in aortic sinus was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining. Flow cytometry was used to explore the proportions of monocyte subsets in the blood, spleen, and bone marrow． Results Pravastatin improved cardiac function and reduced lesion areas. It also attenuated the supply of monocytes in spleen, especially the inflammatory Ly6C high monocyte subset. Pravastatin also subsequently reduced macrophage accumulation in atherosclerotic lesions. Conclusions MI accelerated chronic atherosclerosis progress. Pravastatin suppressed atherosclerotic development and inhibited inflammatory monocytosis after MI in ApoE −/− mice.

Objective To determine the prevalence of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) related myocardial damage (injury or myocardial infarction), investigate several cardiac biomarkers, explore possible risk factors and assess survival in patients undergoing elective PCI. Methods Patients >18 years of age who had undergone an elective PCI at Huashan hospital in Shanghai, China from October 2016 to June 2017 and had baseline and post-PCI results available for four cardiac biomarkers (cTnT, CK-MB mass, hs-CRP and NT-ProBNP) were eligible. Patients were separated into two groups according to whether or not they had PCI related myocardial damage. Results Of the 143 patients who were eligible for the study, 75 (52%) were classified as ‘controls,’ and 68 (48%) had PCI related myocardial damage. Of the 68 patients, 64 (45%) had PCI related myocardial injury and 4 (3%) had PCI related myocardial infarction. Elderly Chinese patients, with high systolic blood pressure on admission and who required multiple coronary segments for PCI had a high risk of myocardial damage. Relative cTnT or relative CK-MB mass may be useful cardiac biomarkers for monitoring PCI related myocardial damage, especially at 24h post-PCI. There was no significant difference in survival rates between controls and those with myocardial complications. Conclusions PCI related myocardial damage is common but appears to have no impact on prognosis. Senior age, high systolic blood pressure and multiple coronary segments for PCI are risk factors.

Summary: Background: To assess the morbidity and risk factors of contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) in Chinese very elderly patients. Methods: The very elderly patients whose age ≥75 year-old, from North Huashan Hospital, South Renji Hospital and Tongren Hospital, underwent coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention, were included in this study. All of these patients were treated by hydration, those who developed contrast-induced nephropathy were divided into CIN group and the others were divided into non-CIN group. The baseline information was evaluated and serum creatinine was measured prior to the coronary angiography and 24 h, 48 h after procedure. The data was analyzed by the software SPSS17.0. Results: 163 very elderly patients were included in this study. The occurrence of CIN in very elderly patients was approximately 8.6%. In CIN group, serum creatinine concentration was statistical significance between prior data and 24 h/48 h after procedure data, but there's no statistically significant differences between 24 h data and 48 data after procedure. Multivariable analysis showed that patient's age (p value 0.026, OR 1.171, 95% CI 1.019–1.347), and complicated lesion (p value 0.025, OR 3.91, 95% CI 1.185–12.896) were correlation with CIN. Conclusion: The incidence of CIN with hydration treatment is similar to that of average patients. Very elderly patient with older age, higher dosage of contrast media and complicated lesion is vulnerable to develop CIN. Keywords: Contrast induced nephropathy, hydration treatment, morbidity, risk factors, very elderly patient

Background The factors that influence cognitive function in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remain unclear. Methods This study involved an AF group and control group (normal sinus rhythm) of 150 patients each. Cognitive function was assessed with the adjusted Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSEadj) score and Memory and Executive Screening (MES) score. The relationship between cognitive function and the CHA 2 DS 2 VASc score was analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed according to stroke history. Clinical factors affecting the MMSE score were screened by logistic regression analysis. Results Baseline data were similar between the two groups. The MMSEadj and MES scores were significantly lower in the AF than control group; the mean MMSEadj score in the AF non-stroke subgroup and control non-stroke subgroup was 26.2 ± 2.7 and 27.9 ± 2.0, respectively. In non-stroke patients with AF, the MMSEadj and MES scores were negatively correlated with the CHA 2 DS 2 VASc score. Factors significantly influencing the MMSE score in these patients were age, education, smoking history, NT-proB-type natriuretic peptide, hemoglobin, and anticoagulation. Conclusion AF is associated with cognitive dysfunction regardless of stroke history. High CHA 2 DS 2 VASc scores are associated with impaired cognitive function. Factors influencing cognitive function in non-stroke patients with AF are age, education, smoking history, NT-proB-type natriuretic peptide, hemoglobin, and anticoagulation.

An efficient and effective multiple headspace-solid phase microextraction-arrow-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (MHS-SPME-arrow-GCMS) analytical protocol is established and used to quantify the flavor compounds in oils. SPME conditions, such as fiber coating, pre-incubation temperature, extraction temperature, and time were studied. The feasibility was compared between SPME-arrow and the traditional fiber by loading different sample amounts. It was found that the SPME-arrow was more suitable for the MHS-SPME. The limit of detection (LODs) and limit of quantitation (LOQs) of pyrazines were in the range of 2–60 ng and 6–180 ng/g oil, respectively. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of both intra- and inter-day were lower than 16%. The mean recoveries for spiked pyrazines in rapeseed oil were in the range of 91.6–109.2%. Furthermore, this newly established method of MHS-SPME-arrow was compared with stable isotopes dilution analysis (SIDA) by using [2H6]-2-methyl-pyrazine. The results are comparable and indicate this method can be used for edible oil flavor analysis.

Abstract Background Foam cells play a key role in the occurrence and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Its formation starts with the ingestion of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). The process is associated with Ras related protein in brain 5 (Rab5) which plays a critical role in regulating endocytosis and early endosomal trafficking. Base on this, we presumed that Rab5 might participate in the maturation of foam cell. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Rab5 on macrophage cholesterol during the evolvement of macrophage when induced by oxLDL to the formation of foam cell. Methods Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyze the distribution of macrophages and Rab5 in atherosclerotic plaque. RNA inteference study and transfection of inactive mutant (GFP-Rab5-S34N) and active mutant (GFP-Rab5-Q79L) in U937-derived macrophage were utilized to investigate the impact of Rab5 on the process of macrophage cholesterol, which could be detected by oil red O staining, determination of intracellular lipid content, filipin staining, nile red staining and the costaining of early endosome antigen-1 (EEA-1) and 1,1′-dioctadecyl-3,3,3′,3′-tetramethylin dicarbocyanine (Dil)-labelled oxLDL (Dil-oxLDL). Results Rab5 was found abundantly localized in macrophage rich areas of human atherosclerotic lesions. On the foam cell study, the expression of Rab5 was increased after the incubation of oxLDL. The inteference study indicated the depletion of Rab5 led to the decreases of oil red O staining areas, total cholesterol and cholesterol esters in U937-derived marophages. Moreover, the fluorescence intensity of filipin and nile red staining were lower in GFP-Rab5-S34N as compared with GFP-Rab5-Q79L. The confocal study demonstrated less Dil-oxLDL was internalized in GFP-Rab5-S34N as compared with GFP-Rab5-Q79L; the result showed also the decrease in colocalization of internalized Dil-oxLDL and EEA-1 for GFP-Rab5-S34N as compared with GFP-Rab5-Q79L. Conclusions Rab5 plays an important role in modulating the intracellular cholesterol of macrophages and consequently mediating the formation of foam cells.

Background/Aims: Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), acting as a newly found ‘danger-associated molecular patterns’ (DAMPs), is released into circulation upon tissue injury and performs as a considerable activator of inflammation and immune response. However, the role of circulating mtDNA in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) as well as Toll like receptor4 (TLR4) mediated cardiac inflammation and injury remains unknown. Methods: A model of EAM was established in BALB/c mice by immunization with porcine cardiac myosin. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to stimulate TLR4 activation in EAM mice and H9C2 cells. Results: LPS stimulation significantly aggravated cardiac inflammation and tissue injury in EAM, as demonstrated by increased myocardium inflammatory cell infiltration, and up-regulated inflammatory cytokines and troponin I(TnI) level in serum. Circulating mtDNA level was increased in EAM and TLR4 activation led to a greater elevation, which may be related to Reactive oxygen species (ROS) stress involved mtDNA damage characterized by reduced mtDNA copy number in myocardium tissue. In addition, the expression of Toll like receptor9 (TLR9), a ligand of mtDNA, was significantly up-regulated in the myocardium of EAM and EAM LPS group; meanwhile, TLR9 inhibition by ODN 2088 caused an inhibited apoptosis in LPS treated H9C2 cells. Moreover, in EAM and EAM LPS group, simultaneously giving ODN 2088 treatment significantly ameliorated cardiac inflammation and tissue injury compared with untreated group. Conclusion: Increased circulating mtDNA combined with upregulated TLR9 expression may corporately play a role in EAM as well as TLR4 activation mediated cardiac inflammation and injury.

Objective This study was performed to investigate the relationship between the serum cystatin C (Cys C) level and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in patients of advanced age. Methods The study included 184 patients with ACS and 46 healthy control subjects. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 14.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results The serum Cys C level was significantly higher in patients with than without ACS (1.24 ± 0.30 vs. 1.42 ± 0.46 mg/L, respectively). Patients with more stenotic coronary arteries were significantly more likely to have higher median serum Cys C and creatinine levels and a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate. The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the serum Cys C level was independently associated with the presence of ACS and the quantity of stenotic coronary arteries after adjustment for confounding factors. Additionally, the serum Cys C level was positively correlated with age, the creatinine level, and the N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide level in all patients but was negatively correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Conclusion A high serum Cys C level was independently associated with ACS and the quantity of stenotic coronary arteries in patients of advanced age regardless of renal function.

This study characterized chemical structures of tetraploid jiaogulan saponins, and investigated their cholesterol-lowering effects and mechanisms in hamsters fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Nine saponins, including five reported for the first time, were obtained from total jiaogulan saponins (TJS) and elucidated for their chemical structures according to 2D NMR and HR-MS data. Administration of TJS effectively decreased plasma total cholesterol by 17.4% and 32.6%, triacylglycerols by 22.8% and 47.7% and LDL-C by 22.0% and 40.2%, respectively. Moreover, supplementation with TJS significantly increased faecal excretion of total cholesterol and bile acids by 43.8% and 64.4%, respectively. TJS significantly up-regulated intestinal mRNA levels of ABCG5/8, LXRα, hepatic mRNA CYP7A1 and ABCG5 in hamsters on HFD. In addition, TJS decreased cholesterol micelle solubility and suppressed cholesterol uptake in cultured Caco-2 cells. Taking together, TJS may reduce plasma cholesterol by increasing faecal cholesterol excretion and through modulation of genes involved in cholesterol absorption and metabolism.

A novel saponin (JS) was isolated from the tetraploid jiaogulan, a popular tea also known as Gynostemma pentaphyllum, and characterized for its chemical structure. JS was investigated for its inhibitory effect on adipocyte differentiation and the potential molecular mechanisms using 3T3-L1 murine pre-adipocytes. JS treatment down-regulated the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα) at both mRNA and protein levels. Further analysis proved that the inhibition was primarily limited to the early stage of adipocyte differentiation, where JS decreased the DNA-binding activity of C/EBPβ by blocking its phosphorylation. In addition, JS increased phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) and subsequently increased stability and nuclear translocation of β-catenin through modulating expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling components. Moreover, JS-induced down regulation of adipogenic markers and fat accumulation is β-catenin-dependent. These data suggested that this novel saponin compound might inhibit adipogenesis through activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling during adipocyte differentiation.

In the present study, the feasibility and advantages of a flow-injection mass spectrometric (FIMS) fingerprinting method combined with chemometrics for quick differentiation and quality assessment of di- and tetraploid leaf and whole-plant Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino (Jiaogulan in Chinese) were investigated for the first time. The rapid FIMS fingerprinting method was applied to generate spectrometric fingerprints of four different types of G. pentaphyllum samples. Chemometrics, including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least square discriminative analysis (PLS-DA), were used to analyze the fingerprints. The results showed that each sample could be effectively differentiated and classified in 2 min. Furthermore, eleven characteristic ions that played the most important roles for differentiating the four groups of G. pentaphyllum samples were screened out by loadings plot from PLS-DA.

Purpose: To determine the effects of rhynchophylline (Rhy) on the progression of cardiovascular diseases in rats. Methods: Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR, 7 week old, weighing 180 - 200 g) were used in this study. The rats were divided into WKY, SHR, SHR+ Rhy (30 mg/kg), and SHR+ Rhy (50 mg/kg). WKY rats were used as the normal control group which had free access to distilled water. The rats were then orally administered Rhy (30 and 50 mg/kg daily by gavage). For inhibition of PPARr, T0070907 was given at a dose of 2 mg/kg for 24 h. The blood pressure of control, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and SHR rhynchophylline (Rhy) rats were measured. While PPARr levels in the hypertensive rats were assessed by Western blot. Cell apoptosis in response to SHR and Rhy were evaluated by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) and Western blot assays, whereas oxidative stress and inflammatory response in SHR rats treated with Rhy were determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Immunoblot assays, respectively. Results: Rhy decreased hypertension and up-regulated PPARγ in SHR rats (p < 0.01). In addition, Rhy improved SHR endothelial cell apoptosis by inducing PPARγ, and also produced reduction in proinflammatory factor secretion by inducing PPARγ. Furthermore, Rhy mitigated oxidative stress and iron death by inducing PPARγ (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Rhynchophylline provides a promising method in alleviating endothelial injury in SHR rats by modulating PPARγ-mediated inflammation and oxidative stres. We therefore thought Rhy alleviated endothelial injury and could serve as a promising drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant activities of the chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol extract fractions from propolis collected in Anhui, China were evaluated in this study. The ethyl acetate fraction contained the highest amount of total phenolics and total flavonoids, and showed the greatest 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging capacities and Ferric Reducing/Antioxidant Power (FRAP). The antioxidant activity of twenty-two compounds isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction was also evaluated using the above-mentioned three assays. The results indicated that phenolics contributed to the antioxidant activity of propolis collected in Anhui, China. Therefore, propolis collected in Anhui, China and its phenolics might be used as a natural antioxidant.

BACKGROUND: Impaired left ventricular (LV) function has been shown by strain rate (SR) imaging in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Our aim was to investigate global and regional, systolic and diastolic left atrial (LA) and right atrial (RA) longitudinal deformation in CAD using velocity vector imaging. METHODS: Echocardiographic and velocity vector imaging studies were performed in 20 patients with mild CAD, 40 patients with severe CAD and 25 controls. Maximal atrial volume, peak atrial longitudinal strain (ε(s)) and SR during LV systole (SRs), SR during early LV filling (SRe) and late LV filling (SRa) were measured. Longitudinal strain during atrial contraction (ε(a)) was obtained at the onset of P-wave on electrocardiography, and ε(a)/ε(s) was calculated. RESULTS: Longitudinal peak ε(s) and SRs of LA showed decreased trend among CAD patients. The global and lateral LA SRe were prominently lower, while RA ε(a), SRa and ε(a)/ε(s) were prominently higher in 2 CAD groups than control group (P value

BackgroundThe relationship between hypertension and kidney disease is complicated. Clinical trials found intense blood pressure control was not associated with alterations in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in all patients but did slow the rate of GFR decline among those with a higher baseline proteinuria. However, the underlying mechanism has been unclear.MethodsWe tested the hypothesis that the association between high blood pressure and renal function is modified by albuminuria status by conducting analyses in a cross-sectional study with 12,440 adult participants without known kidney diseases, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases, participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2006.Results1226 out of 12440 were found to have unknown high blood pressure and 4494 were found to have reduced renal function. Overall, a moderate association was found between high blood pressure and renal function insufficiency in all participants analyzed. However, among participants with albuminuria, the prevalence of moderate-severe renal insufficiency substantially and progressively increased from normal subjects to prehypertensive and undiagnosed hypertensive subjects (1.43%, 3.44%, 10.96%, respectively, P for trendConclusionsThe association between high blood pressure and reduced renal function could be dependent upon the albuminuria status. This finding may provide a possible explanation for results observed in clinical trials of intensive blood pressure control. Further studies are warranted to confirm our findings.

BackgroundLittle is known about the plasma levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and the relationship between the severity of coronary heart disease (CHD) with NT-proBNP and multiple biomarkers in diabetic and pre-diabetic patients, compared to individuals with normal glucose levels.MethodsFour hundred and fifteen consecutive Chinese patients of both sexes were assigned to three groups on the basis of the new hemoglobin (Hb) A1c (HbA1c) cut-off points for diagnosis of diabetes and pre-diabetes. The three groups were divided into tertiles according to NT-proBNP, hs-CRP, cystatin C, and troponin T levels. Gensini scores were compared among the three groups and biomarker tertiles. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to obtain the angiographic CHD cut-off points for each biomarker. Stepwise multivariate linear correlation analysis was applied to examine the association between the severity of CHD and biomarker levels.ResultsGensini scores increased with increasing biomarker tertile levels and HbA1c. Gensini scores were significantly different in the middle and upper NT-proBNP tertiles of the diabetic, pre-diabetic and control groups. NT-proBNP had the highest positive and negative predictive values and area under the curve for CHD. Only NT-proBNP was identified as an independent variable for Gensini score.ConclusionsPlasma NT-proBNP may be an important biomarker to evaluate the severity of CHD and screen for CHD in diabetic or pre-diabetic patients.

The mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles, carefully maintaining network homeostasis by regulating mitochondrial fusion and fission. Mitochondrial dynamics are involved in the regulation of a variety of pathophysiological processes, including cell proliferation. Oxidative stress serves an important role in the remodeling of arterial vascular tissue in diabetic patients by affecting the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Salidroside is the primary active component of Rhodiola rosea and has been demonstrated to be an antioxidant with cardio- and vascular-protective effects, in addition to improving glucose metabolism. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the impact of Salidroside on VSMC proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondrial dynamics under high glucose conditions and the potential mechanisms involved. The current study used Salidroside and a mitochondrial division inhibitor, specifically of Drp1 (Mdivi-1) to treat VSMCs under high glucose conditions for 24 h and assessed VSMCs proliferation, the state of mitochondrial fission and fusion and the expression level of proteins related to mitochondrial dynamics including dynamin-related protein (Drp1) and mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), ROS level and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity. The results of the present study indicate that Salidroside and Mdivi-1 inhibit VSMC proliferation, Drp1 expression and oxidative stress and upregulate Mfn2 expression (all P<0.05). The inhibitive effect on VSMC proliferation may be partly reversed by exogenous ROS. In addition, the inhibitive effect on VSMCs proliferation and oxidative stress may also be in part reversed by Mfn2-siRNA. Collectively, these data suggest that Salidroside inhibits VSMCs proliferation induced by high-glucose and may perform its therapeutic effect via maintaining mitochondrial dynamic homeostasis and regulating oxidative stress level, with Mfn2 as a therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiogenesis requires the interaction of multiple variable factors to promote endothelial cell adhesion, migration and survival. Palmitate, a free fatty acid, exhibits an anti‑angiogenic effect via interference with endothelial cell function, whereas cysteine proteases are important in protein turnover and are termed positive modulators of neovascularization. However, the association between these two factors regarding the regulation of human endothelial cell function remains to be elucidated. By using cell counting kit‑8, the Transwell method and an annexin V‑fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide apoptosis detection kit, the present study reported that high levels of palmitate result in a significant decrease in endothelial cell proliferation and invasion, and induced cell apoptosis; cathepsin L and S inhibitors may suppress palmitate‑induced apoptosis. Conversely, the results of the cathepsin L and S activity assay and reverse‑transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction indicated that palmitate inhibited cathepsin‑induced endothelial cell invasion, partially via suppressing the expression and activity of cathepsin L and S. The findings of the present study suggested that the potent anti‑angiogenic properties of palmitate may be mediated by cysteine proteases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine a new method for the early diagnosis and assessment of mild cognitive impairment in elderly individuals with hypertension. Elderly hypertensive patients with cognitive impairment were assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Clinical Dementia Rating Assessment (CDR). Cognitive results were compared to apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values from magnetic resonance-diffusion weighted imaging. Methods: A total of 191 patients were categorized into four groups: a control group (normal cognition and no hypertension; n=20); a normal group (hypertension and normal cognition; n=33); an mild cognitive impairment group (n=80); and a vascular dementia group (n=58). The MoCA and CDR tests were used to determine cognition. ADC values in eight brain regions were calculated with magnetic resonance-diffusion weighted imaging. Other characteristics were evaluated, eg, blood pressure, MoCA, and CDR scores, and the comparisons of the four groups were made. Results: The MoCA and CDR scores differed among the four groups (P<0.001). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure values increased as cognitive function declined (P<0.001). Cognitive function declined as ADC values increased, and they differed between elderly people with and without hypertension (P<0.001). Among elderly hypertensive participants, ADC values were significantly increased in the cortex and hippocampus. Conclusion: The MoCA and CDR tests were sufficiently sensitive to evaluate cognition. Blood pressure was closely related to cognition, as well as to functional and structural changes in the brain. These alterations were evidenced through changes in the ADC values and were most obvious in the cortex and hippocampus. Greater cognitive decline was observed in elderly participants with hypertension compared to those without. As hypertensive stage increased, greater ADC values were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is used as a prognostic biomarker for patients with heart failure (HF) in clinical practice, however, the correlation between BNP levels and the prognosis of HF in patients with reserved left ventricular systolic function (RLVSF) is not clear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the added value of BNP in the prognosis of HF patients with RLVSF. Inpatients with cardiovascular disease (mean age, 65.7 years; male, 790; female, 625) admitted to the Division of Cardiology at Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China) between June 2006 and December 2009 underwent follow-up examinations. Plasma BNP levels were analyzed and measurements of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were performed by echocardiography. Evaluations of the patients with HF were performed according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification system. The duration of the follow-up period ranged between 21 and 63 months (average duration, 35.8 months) and key events included cardiovascular mortality, readmission due to cardiovascular disease or mortality due to other reasons. Survival times decreased with increasing BNP levels in all the follow-up patients (Spearman's ρ, -0.1877; P<0.0001). Among the 1,415 patients, 1,312 underwent echo- cardiographic detection. A total of 395 patients with NYHA classes II-IV and a LVEF ≥45% were selected. The incidence of compound endpoint events was significantly higher in the patients that had BNP levels of >100 pg/ml when compared with the patients that had BNP levels of ≤100 pg/ml (37.07 vs. 23.93%; relative risk, 1.55); consequently the survival times were significantly reduced (P=0.0039). A negative correlation was identified between the BNP levels and the survival times in these patients (Spearman's ρ, -0.1738; P=0.0005). These results indicated that the levels of BNP may be used to predict the prognosis of patients with cardiovascular disease. The prognoses of patients with higher BNP levels were worse compared with the patients with lower BNP levels. Furthermore, significant correlations were confirmed in the HF patients with RLVSF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant activities of the chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol extract fractions from propolis collected in Anhui, China were evaluated in this study. The ethyl acetate fraction contained the highest amount of total phenolics and total flavonoids, and showed the greatest 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging capacities and Ferric Reducing/Antioxidant Power (FRAP). The antioxidant activity of twenty-two compounds isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction was also evaluated using the above-mentioned three assays. The results indicated that phenolics contributed to the antioxidant activity of propolis collected in Anhui, China. Therefore, propolis collected in Anhui, China and its phenolics might be used as a natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]