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Abstract The present study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of bile reflux-inducing chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) with colonic mucosal lesion. The rat model of CAG with colonic mucosal lesion was induced by free-drinking 20 mmol/L sodium deoxycholate to simulate bile reflux and 2% cold sodium salicylate for 12 weeks. In comparison to the control group, the model rats had increased abundances of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes but had decreased abundances of Proteobacteria and Fusobacterium. Several gut bacteria with bile acids transformation ability were enriched in the model group, such as Blautia, Phascolarctobacter, and Enterococcus. The cytotoxic deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid were significantly increased in the model group. Transcriptome analysis of colonic tissues presented that the down-regulated genes enriched in T cell receptor signaling pathway, antigen processing and presentation, Th17 cell differentiation, Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation, and intestinal immune network for IgA production in the model group. These results suggest that bile reflux-inducing CAG with colonic mucosal lesion accompanied by gut dysbacteriosis, mucosal immunocompromise, and increased gene expressions related to repair of intestinal mucosal injury.

Background: Since the first human infection with H9N2 virus was reported in 1998, the number of cases of H9N2 infection has exceeded one hundred by 2021. However, there is no systematic description of the biological characteristics of H9N2 viruses isolated from humans. Methods: Therefore, this study analyzed the pathogenicity in mice of all available H9N2 viruses isolated from human cases in China from 2013 to 2021. Results: Although most of the H9N2 viruses analyzed showed low or no pathogenicity in mice, the leucine to glutamine substitution at residue 226 (L226Q) in the hemagglutinin (HA) protein rapidly emerged during the adaptation of H9N2 viruses, and was responsible for severe infections and even fatalities. HA amino acid 226Q conferred a remarkable competitive advantage on H9N2 viruses in mice relative to viruses containing 226L, increasing their virulence, infectivity, and replication. Conclusion: Thus, our study demonstrates that the adaptive substitution HA L226Q rapidly acquired by H9N2 viruses during the course of infection in mice contributed to their high pathogenicity.

Abstract Background In this study, by analyzing the correlation between various components of health-related physical fitness (HPF) and liver function indicators, the indicators of physical fitness that were highly correlated with liver function and could be monitored at home were screened to prevent more serious liver disease in the future, and to provide experimental basis for prescribing personalized exercise. Methods A total of 330 faculties (female = 198) of a university were recruited. The indicators of HPF and liver function were measured. Spearman correlation analysis, multivariate linear regression, and cross-lagged panel model was used to data statistics. Results In males, body fat (BF) was positively correlated with alanine aminotransferase (ALT); vital capacity and the vital capacity index were positively correlated with albumin; and vertical jump was positively correlated with globulin and negatively correlated with the albumin-globulin ratio (P

ABSTRACTH6 avian influenza virus (AIV) is one of the most prevalent AIV subtypes in birds globally. To investigate the current situation and characteristics of H6 AIVs circulating in China, we analysed the epidemiology, genetic evolution and pathogenic features of this subtype. During 2000-2021, H6 subtype AIVs spread widely through Southern China and presented high host diversity. On analysing 171 H6 viruses isolated during 2009-2021, dynamic reassortments were observed among H6 and other co-circulating AIV subtypes, and these generated a total of 16 different genotypes. A few H6N6 strains possessed L226 and S228 mutations of hemagglutinin (H3 numbering), which may enhance the affinity of H6 viruses to human receptors. H6N6 viruses also exhibited divergent pathogenicity and growth profiles in vivo and in vitro. Some of the H6N6 viruses could infect mice without mammalian adaptation, and even caused death in this species. Therefore, our study demonstrated that the H6 AIVs posed a potential threat to human health and highlighted the urgent need for continued surveillance and evaluation of the H6 influenza viruses circulating in the field.

The continuous evolution of avian influenza viruses (AIVs) of subtype H3 in China and the emergence of human infection with AIV subtype H3N8 highlight their threat to public health. Through surveillance in poultry-associated environments during 2009–2022, we isolated and sequenced 188 H3 AIVs across China. Performing large-scale sequence analysis with publicly available data, we identified 4 sublineages of H3 AIVs established in domestic ducks in China via multiple introductions from wild birds from Eurasia. Using full-genome analysis, we identified 126 distinct genotypes, of which the H3N2 G23 genotype predominated recently. H3N8 G25 viruses, which spilled over from birds to humans, might have been generated by reassortment between H3N2 G23, wild bird H3N8, and poultry H9N2 before February 2021. Mammal-adapted and drug-resistance substitutions occasionally occurred in H3 AIVs. Ongoing surveillance for H3 AIVs and risk assessment are imperative for potential pandemic preparedness.

H4 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) have been widely detected in live poultry markets in China. However, the potential public health impact of H4 AIVs remains largely uncertain. Here, we fully analyzed the distribution and phylogenetic relationship of H4 AIVs in China. We obtained 31 isolates of H4 viruses in China during 2009–2022 through surveillance in poultry-associated environments, such as live poultry markets and poultry farms. Genomic sequence analysis together with publicly available data revealed that frequent reassortment and introduction of H4 AIV from wild birds to poultry may have occurred. We identified 62 genotypes among 127 whole genome sequences of H4 viruses in China, indicating that H4 AIVs had great genetic diversity in China. We also investigated molecular markers and found that drug resistance mutations frequently occurred in the M2 protein and a few mutations related to receptor binding and the host signature in H4 AIVs. Our study demonstrates the cross-species transmission potential of H4 AIVs in China and provides some reference significance for its risk assessment.

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are the origin of multiple mammal influenza viruses. The genetic determinants of AIVs adapted to humans have been widely elucidated, however, the molecular mechanism of cross-species transmission and adaptation of AIVs to canines are still poorly understood. In this study, two H3N2 influenza viruses isolated from a live poultry market (A/environment/Guangxi/13431/2018, GX13431) and a swab sample from a canine (A/canine/Guangdong/0601/2019, GD0601) were used to investigate the possible molecular basis that determined H3N2 AIV adapting to canine. We found that GD0601 exhibited more robust polymerase activity in cells and higher pathogenicity in mice compared with its evolution ancestor H3N2 AIV GX13431. A series of reassortments of the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex showed that the PB2 subunit was the crucial factor that conferred high polymerase activity of GD0601, and the substitution of I714S in the PB2 subunit of GD0601 attenuated the replication and pathogenicity in mammal cells and the mouse model. Mechanistically, the reverse mutation of I714S in the PB2 polymerase subunit which was identified in AIV GX13431 reduced the nuclear import efficiency of PB2 protein and interfered with the interactions of PB2-PA/NP that affected the assembly of the viral RNP complex. Our study reveals amino acid mutation at the position of 714 in the nuclear localization signal (NLS) area in PB2 plays an important role in overcoming the barrier from poultry to mammals of the H3N2 canine influenza virus and provides clues for further study of mammalian adaptation mechanism of AIVs.

The recent rise in the frequency of influenza A(H5N6) infections in China has raised serious concerns about whether the risk for human infection has increased. We surveyed epidemiologic, clinical, and genetic data of human infections with A(H5N6) viruses. Severe disease occurred in 93.8% of cases, and the fatality rate was 55.4%. Median patient age was 51 years. Most H5N6 hemagglutinin (HA) genes in human isolates in 2021 originated from subclade 2.3.4.4b; we estimated the time to most recent common ancestor as June 16, 2020. A total of 13 genotypes with HA genes from multiple subclades in clade 2.3.4.4 were identified in human isolates. Of note, 4 new genotypes detected in 2021 were the major causes of increased H5N6 virus infections. Mammalian-adapted mutations were found in HA and internal genes. Although we found no evidence of human-to-human transmission, continuous evolution of H5N6 viruses may increase the risk for human infections.

Influenza B virus is a significant respiratory pathogen responsible for seasonal influenza. In recent years the B/Yamagata lineage has demonstrated a rapid increase, predominantly featuring the neuraminidase (NA) N342K mutation. This study determined the impact of the NA N342K mutation on the pathogenicity of influenza B virus and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Gene fragments with specific mutations were generated using site-directed mutagenesis PCR, resulting in recombinant viruses (rAH127 and rAH127/NA N342K ). C57BL/6 mice were infected to evaluate the impact of amino acid mutations on virus pathogenicity. Body weight, survival rate, virus replication, and lung pathology were compared among the groups. NA enzyme activity was assessed to determine the mechanisms underlying the effects of amino acid mutations on the pathogenicity of influenza B virus. The NA N342K mutant virus exhibited significantly increased NA enzyme activity (3.19-fold) and viral replication capacity in MDCK cells (6.76-fold) compared to wild-type virus. These changes led to enhanced pathogenicity in mice, characterized by severe weight loss, increased mortality, and heightened lung tissue inflammation. The NA N342K mutation likely enhances virus replication and pathogenicity by increasing NA enzyme activity. These findings contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying influenza B virus pathogenicity and have implications for targeted therapeutic strategies.

Abstract Background Myocardial infarction (MI) remains the leading cause of death and disability among cardiovascular diseases worldwide. Studies show that elevated low-density lipid protein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels confer the highest absolute risk of MI, and Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is implicated in regulating levels of triglycerides (TGs), cholesterol, and LDL-C. Our study aimed to evaluate the association between APOE polymorphism and MI, and to provide evidence for the etiology of MI. Methods Case–control studies on the association between APOE polymorphisms and the risk of myocardial infarction were included by searching PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI, and this meta-analysis was written in accordance with PRISMA guideline statement. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using either random-effects or fixed-effects models by R software. Results A total of 33 eligible articles involving 13,706 cases and 14,817 controls were finally selected. The pooled analysis based on the total eligible articles showed that the risk of MI was associated with ApoE epsilon 2 and epsilon 4 alleles. The results showed that patients with MI had a low frequency of the ε2 allele (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.64–0.86) and a high frequency of the ε4 allele (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.09–1.42). Conclusions APOE ε2-involved genotypes may be protective factors for MI; in contrast, ε4-involved genotypes (ε4/ε3 vs. ε3/ε3, and ε4/ε4 vs. ε3/ε3) may be risk factors for MI.

Abstract Background Multimorbidity is defined as two or more chronic health conditions existing in an individual simultaneously. Multimorbidity has been associated with poor conditions, such as higher health care costs and the poor quality of life. Thus, identifying the risk factors of the multimorbidity is required for multimorbidity prevention. Methods This study was based on the Comprehensive Demonstration Research Project of Major Chronic Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control Technology in Northeast China initiated by China Medical University. The investigation was a cross-sectional study under a multistage stratified cluster random sampling design. Associations between multimorbidity and sociodemographic and behavioral factors in adult residents were investigated using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 6706 participants were enrolled in this investigation, and the prevalence of multimorbidity was 21.2% among the adult residents of northeastern China. There existed differences of association between age and multimorbidity risks (65–69 years old: OR = 3.53, 95%CI: 2.04–6.12; 70–74 years old: OR = 5.26, 95%CI: 3.02–9.17). Participants who are overweight had significantly high multimorbidity risk (OR = 2.76, 95%CI: 1.50–5.24). Family history of hypertension and family history of diabetes were significantly associated with high multimorbidity risk (family history of hypertension: OR = 2.34, 95%CI: 1.96–2.79; family history of diabetes: OR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.38–2.26). Compared with the frequency of fatigue (

Background: This study aimed to derive the effects of walking while using a mobile phone on balance perturbation and joint movement among young adults. Methods: Sixteen healthy college students with no history of brain injury were tested. The participants were asked to walk under four different conditions: (1) walking, (2) browsing, (3) dialing, and (4) texting. Indicators related to balance control and lower limb kinematic/kinetic parameters were analyzed using the continuous relative phase and statistical nonparametric mapping methods. Results: Walking while using a mobile phone slowed participants’ gait speed and reduced the cadence, stride length, and step length. The posterior tilt angle (0–14%, 57–99%), torque of the hip flexion (0–15%, 30–35%, 75–100%), and angle of the hip flexion (0–28%, 44–100%) decreased significantly. The activation of biceps femoris and gastrocnemius, hip stiffness, and ankle stiffness increased significantly. This impact on gait significantly differed among three dual tasks: texting > browsing > dialing. Conclusion: Che overlap of walking and mobile phone use affects the gait significantly. The “hip–ankle strategy” may result in a “smooth” but slower gait, while this strategy was deliberate and tense. In addition, this adjustment also increases the stiffness of the hip and ankle, increasing the risk of fatigue. Findings regarding this effect may prove that even for young healthy adults, walking with mobile phone use induces measurable adjustment of the motor pattern. These results suggest the importance of simplifying the control of the movement.

In the present work, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from vehicle exhaust and cooking fumes were investigated via simulation experiments, which covered engine emissions produced during gasoline direct injection (GDI) using two kinds of fuels and cooking emissions produced by preparing three domestic dishes. The distinct characteristics of VOCs emitted during the two processes were identified. Alkanes (73% mass fraction on average) and aromatics (15% on average) dominated the vehicle VOCs, while oxygenated VOCs (49%) and alkanes (29%) dominated the cooking VOCs. Isopentane (22%) was the most abundant species among the vehicle VOCs. N-hexanal (20%) dominated the cooking VOCs. The n-hexanal-to-n-pentanal ratio (3.68 ± 0.64) was utilized to identify cooking VOCs in ambient air. The ozone formation potential produced by cooking VOCs was from 1.39 to 1.93 times higher than that produced by vehicle VOCs, which indicates the significant potential contribution of cooking VOCs to atmospheric ozone. With the equivalent photochemical age increasing from 0 h to 72 h, the secondary organic aerosol formation by vehicle VOCs was from 3% to 38% higher than that of cooking VOCs. Controlling cooking emissions can reduce SOA pollution in a short time due to its higher SOA formation rate than that of vehicle VOCs within the first 30 h. However, after 30 h of oxidation, the amount of SOAs formed by vehicle exhaust emissions exceeded the amount of SOAs produced by cooking activities, implying that reducing vehicle emissions will benefit particle pollution for a longer time. Our results highlight the importance of VOCs produced by cooking fumes, which has not been given much attention before. Further, our study suggested that more research on semi-volatile organic compounds produced by cooking emissions should be conducted in the future.

Abstract Background Many older adults in the U.S. do not achieve the recommended amount of physical activity (PA) to fully realize a myriad of health benefits. Adiposity is one of those important correlates of PA and sedentary behaviors. However, the full extent to which adiposity is associated with PA and stationary time (STA) is uncertain. Therefore, we examined the association of adiposity with objectively measured PA and STA in black and white older adults. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of older adults enrolled in the REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study 2003–2007 who participated in an ancillary accelerometer study 2009–2013. Assessment of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) was completed during an in-home visit in the parent study. PA was measured by Actical™ accelerometers, which provided estimates of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA), light-intensity PA (LPA), and STA for 4–7 consecutive days. Data from accelerometers were standardized to square root percentages of total wear time per day (SqrtMVPA%, SqrtLPA%, and SqrtSTA%). Interactions were tested for BMI and WC by race and sex, separately. Results Data were available for 7873 participants (69.8 ± 8.7 yr, 54.2% women, 31.5% African American). In mixed linear regression models, significant interactions existed in BMI by race and sex for the SqrtMVPA%, WC by race and sex for the SqrtMVPA% and the SqrtLPA% model(p

The virulence of influenza viruses is a complex multigenic trait. Previous studies about the virulence determinants of influenza viruses mainly focused on amino acid sites, ignoring the influence of nucleotide mutations. In this study, we collected >200 viral strains from 21 subtypes of influenza A viruses with virulence in mammals and obtained over 100 mammalian virulence-related nucleotide sites across the genome by computational analysis. Fifty of these nucleotide sites only experienced synonymous mutations. Experiments showed that synonymous mutations in three high-scoring nucleotide sites, i.e., PB1–2031, PB1–633, and PB1–720, enhanced the pathogenicity of the influenza A(H1N1) viruses in mice. Besides, machine-learning models with accepted accuracy for predicting mammalian virulence of influenza A viruses were built. Overall, this study highlighted the importance of nucleotide mutations, especially synonymous mutations in viral virulence, and provided rapid methods for evaluating the virulence of influenza A viruses. It could be helpful for early warning of newly emerging influenza A viruses.

ABSTRACTInfluenza B virus (IBV) is one of the most important human respiratory viruses: it causes approximately one-third of the global influenza-related disease burden each year. However, compared with the several pathogenicity-related molecular markers that have been identified for influenza A virus (IAV), little is known about potential IBV pathogenicity-related markers. Here, although the IBV strain B/Anhui-Tunxi/1528/2014 (AH1528/14) exhibited a more efficient replication ability in vitro and higher pathogenicity in vivo compared with IBV strain B/Anhui-Baohe/127/2015 (AH127/15), only three amino acids differences (HAA390E, NAN342D and PB1V212I) were observed among their full genomes. The contributions of each amino acid difference to the virus pathogenicity were further investigated. Compared with the wild type IBV virus rAH127, the recombinant virus harbouring a single substitution of HAA390E had a similar phenotype, whereas the recombinant virus harbouring PB1V212I replicated to a moderately higher titre in both MDCK cells and in mice. Notably, the virus harbouring NAN342D showed significantly better growth properties in MDCK cells and higher fatality rates in mice. In addition, the presence of NAN342D dramatically enhanced the viral neuraminidase activity. In conclusion, our study identified a novel IBV molecular marker, NAN342D, that could significantly increase the virulence of IBV in mice.

Secondary organic aerosols (SOA) are crucial components of ambient particulate matters. However, their composition and formation mechanisms remain uncertain. To investigate the SOA formation and evaluate various SOA estimation approaches, a comprehensive measurement was conducted at an urban site, Changzhou, in Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region. 98 kinds of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured by an online gas chromatography-mass spectrometer/flame ionization detector (GC-MS/FID). Non-refractory submicron particulate matters (NR-PM1) were measured by an Aerodyne Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (ACSM). Both bottom-up approaches, i.e., VOCs oxidation yield method, and top-down approaches, i.e., elemental carbon (EC) tracer method and ACSM, combined with positive matrix factorization (PMF) method, were utilized to estimate SOA. ACSM-PMF method estimated the highest SOA concentration, followed by EC tracer method. SOA from VOCs oxidation yield method accounted for 43.2 ± 41.9% of that from EC tracer method, suggesting the existence of missing SOA precursors, e.g., semivolatile organic compounds. The influencing factors of SOA formation were investigated and a good correlation of SOA with odd oxygen rather than aerosol liquid water content was found, suggesting the importance of photochemical formation of SOA.

Background: This study aims to investigate the associations between dietary patterns (breakfast, egg, dairy products, and sugared beverage intake frequencies) and physical fitness among Chinese children and adolescents in Shaanxi Province. METHODS: Data were extracted from the Chinese National Survey on Students’ Constitution and Health (CNSSCH). The study ultimately included 7305 participants (48.4% male, 51.6% female) aged 6–22 in Shaanxi Province, China. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the association of the frequency of breakfast, egg, dairy product, and sugared beverage intakes with physical fitness. RESULTS: The frequency of breakfast, egg, and dairy product intakes were all independently and positively associated with the level of physical fitness. The frequency of sugared beverage intake was negatively associated with the level of physical fitness. CONCLUSION: Healthier dietary patterns (i.e., higher breakfast, egg, and dairy product intakes and lower sugared beverage intake) were associated with greater physical fitness. Specifically, maintaining a healthy dietary pattern of breakfast, egg, and dairy product intakes can positively affect the strength and endurance performance of children and adolescents. Increased dairy product intake plays a crucial part in boosting the physical fitness total scores of children and adolescents.

Background: Aging and physical inactivity are associated with declines in physical fitness and cognitive function. Active video games have proven to be beneficial for the physical health of older adults, but the exact effect of active video games on physical fitness and cognitive function was still unclear. Based on self-determination theory (SDT), which is a widely used theory of healthy behavior change, this study aimed to explore the effects of an active video game intervention on fitness and cognitive function in older adults. Methods: A total of 38 participants (mean age = 65.68 ± 3.78 years, 24 female) were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (active video game training) or a control group (no additional intervention). The participants in the intervention group trained for a total of 36 sessions (3 times per week for 50–55 min each) for 12 weeks. The control group continued with their normal daily living. The pre- and posttest measurements included: IPAQ-C score and physical fitness (BMI, body fat percent, blood pressure, reaction time, sit and reach, vital capacity, grip strength, static balance, blood biochemical tests for liver function, kidney function, blood lipids, glucose and insulin levels) and cognitive functions (processing speed, spatial ability, working memory, language ability, associative memory). Result: The intervention group showed a significantly smaller decrease in total average physical activity relative to the control group. BMI, vital capacity, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and spatial cognition significantly improved after training in the intervention group (BMI: F = 9.814, p = 0.004, d = −0.93, vital capacity: F = 4.708, p = 0.038, d = 0.67, systolic blood pressure: F = 5.28, p = 0.028, d = −0.68, diastolic blood pressure: F = 6.418, p = 0.016, d = −0.86, spatial cognition: F = 8.261, p = 0.007, d = 0.72). Three measures of static balance (closed eyes) also showed improvements after training (total length of swing: F = 3.728, d = −0.62, total velocity of swing: F = 3.740, d = −0.62, total area of swing: F = 2.920, d = −0.70). No significant training effects were evident in the results from the blood biochemical tests. Conclusion: This study indicates a positive influence of active video game training on physical fitness and cognitive function. The use of SDT-based active video game exercise as a feasible, safe, and effective training method for improving community older adults’ healthy, promoting group cohesion, and increasing motivation to exercise.

Background: This study aimed to explore the characteristics of trends in physical fitness and nutritional status among school-aged students during the COVID-19 pandemic, which could help to develop targeted guidelines and policies for students (adolescents) to promote health during lockdowns resulting from public health emergencies. Methods: The physical fitness and nutritional status were measured from 2019 to 2021; the correlation between years and grade were analyzed. Results: a declining trend was found in aerobic fitness, strength fitness, speed fitness, and BMI during this lockdown. Conclusion: The changes in dietary behavior and the decrease in outdoor physical activities may be the reason for the decline. Furthermore, differences in subjects’ growth and limited space at home must be considered in the formulation of exercise and nutritional plans. According to the results of our study, exercise for aerobic fitness should receive more attention when students are enduring a pandemic lockdown. In addition, saying “no” to high-calorie foods in the form of snacking and ultra-processed food was the key to improving subjects’ nutritional status.

Abstract Background Human infection with avian influenza H7N9 virus was first reported in 2013. Since the fifth epidemic, a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7N9 virus has emerged and caused 33 human infections. Several potential NAI resistance sites have been found in human cases. However, the drug susceptibility and replication ability of HPAI H7N9 virus with such substitutions have not yet been studied. Methods Thirty-three HPAI H7N9 virus strains were isolated from human cases in China, and then sequences were analyzed to identify potential NAI resistance sites. Recombinant influenza viruses were generated to evaluate the effect of NA amino acid substitutions on NAI (oseltamivir or zanamivir) susceptibility and viral replication efficiency in MDCK cells. Results Four potential NAI resistance sites, R292 K, E119V, A246T or H274Y, were screened. All four substitutions conferred either reduced or highly reduced susceptibility to oseltamivir or zanamivir. 292 K not only highly reduced the susceptibility of HPAI H7N9 to oseltamivir but also induced an increase in the IC50 of zanamivir. 119 V or 274Y conferred reduced susceptibility of HPAI H7N9 to oseltamivir. Additionally, 246 T conferred reduced susceptibility to zanamivir. All tested NAI-resistant viruses were capable of replication in MDCK cells. The virus yields of rg006-NA292K were lower than those of rg006-NA292R at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h postinfection (P

Mutations of influenza virus associated with adaptation occurring during passage in embryonated chicken eggs could result in antigenic change or reduced vaccine effectiveness. In this study, we investigated the mutations of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 egg isolates from the Chinese National Influenza Surveillance Network between 2009 and 2016. Thirteen mutations were identified in the hemagglutinin (HA) protein from viruses passaged in eggs, in comparing to those in cells. After scanning public database, four mutations, D127E, L191I, D222G/N and Q223R in HA1, which may alter the receptor-binding specificity, were observed frequently. Although the A(H1N1)pdm09 virus has evolved in human for nearly ten years, most egg-cultured viruses acquired one or more further mutations. Using the egg isolates for influenza surveillance requires extra caution because of these selected mutations, and their impacts on antigenicity and receptor-binding property need further evaluation. Currently, most of the influenza vaccines are produced using egg isolates, particularly in China. Thus, there is an urge to promote the establishment of an alternative influenza vaccine production platform.

ABSTRACTIt has recently been proposed that the Eurasian avian-like H1N1 (EA H1N1) swine influenza virus (SIV) is one of the most likely zoonotic viruses to cause the next influenza pandemic. Two main genotypes EA H1N1 viruses have been recognized to be infected humans in China. Our study finds that one of the genotypes JS1-like viruses are avirulent in mice. However, the other are HuN-like viruses and are virulent in mice. The molecular mechanism underlying this difference shows that the NP gene determines the virulence of the EA H1N1 viruses in mice. In addition, a single substitution, Q357K, in the NP protein of the EA H1N1 viruses alters the virulence phenotype. This substitution is a typical human signature marker, which is prevalent in human viruses but rarely detected in avian influenza viruses. The NP-Q357K substitution is readily to be occurred when avian influenza viruses circulate in pigs, and may facilitate their infection of humans and allow viruses also carrying NP-357K to circulate in humans. Our study demonstrates that the substitution Q357K in the NP protein plays a key role in the virulence phenotype of EA H1N1 SIVs, and provides important information for evaluating the pandemic risk of field influenza strains.

Background: Restricted outdoor activities and online learning during COVID-19 pandemic may pose threats on the physical and mental health of Chinese adolescents in middle schools. The study was to explore the relationship of Physical Activity (PA) and Sedentary Time (SED) with mood states among Chinese adolescents during the pandemic. Methods: A total of 4898 adolescents (16.3 ± 1.3 years old) from 49 middle schools in 13 urban and rural areas in Yan’an, China volunteered to participate in this study and completed online questionnaires. International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were used to measure PA and SED, and Profile of Mood States were used to evaluate mood states. We used Mann–Whitney U-test and Kruskal–Wallis test to assess differences in PA and SED in different sex and grade group, respectively. Mixed linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between PA/SED and mood states. Results: Participants in our study accumulated 23.4 ± 52.5 min of moderate-to-vigorous PA and 363.6 ± 148.4 min of SED per day. The mood states of boys were better than that of girls (p < 0.01). The mood states of the students in Senior High School Grade 3 were at the highest level of mood disturbance. Higher levels of PA were significantly associated with lower levels of total mood disturbance in this population (High PA group according to IPAQ: B = −3.22, SE = 0.40, p < 0.001; Moderate: B = −1.47, SE = 0.37, p < 0.001, compared to Low PA group). Conclusion: Chinese adolescents maintained a sedentary lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic. Girls and students in Grade 3 Senior High School had higher level of mood disturbance. More PA was associate with improving mood state among adolescents in the pandemic. The present study may assist policymakers and healthcare professionals understand PA and mood states of Chinese adolescents during the epidemic and take targeted actions in case of emergencies in future.

Summary: The 2016–2017 epidemic of influenza A (H7N9) virus in China prompted concern that a genetic change may underlie increased virulence. Based on an evolutionary analysis of H7N9 viruses from all five outbreak waves, we find that additional subclades of the H7 and N9 genes have emerged. Our analysis indicates that H7N9 viruses inherited NP genes from co-circulating H7N9 instead of H9N2 viruses. Genotypic diversity among H7N9 viruses increased following wave I, peaked during wave III, and rapidly deceased thereafter with minimal diversity in wave V, suggesting that the viruses entered a relatively stable evolutionary stage. The ZJ11 genotype caused the majority of human infections in wave V. We suggest that the largest outbreak of wave V may be due to a constellation of genes rather than a single mutation. Therefore, continuous surveillance is necessary to minimize the threat of H7N9 viruses. : The largest epidemic of influenza A (H7N9), wave V, prompted concerns of a pandemic. Zhu et al. analyze H7N9 viruses from all five waves and argue that the viruses entered a relatively stable stage. One gene constellation that emerged in H7N9 viruses is identified. Keywords: influenza A (H7N9) viruses, NP gene, gene constellation, PB2 A588V, the fifth wave

Exercise training has been reported to alleviate cardiac fibrosis and ameliorate heart dysfunction after myocardial infarction (MI), but the molecular mechanism is still not fully clarified. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) exerts a protective effect on the infarcted heart. This study investigates whether exercise training could increase FGF21 protein expression and regulate the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-Smad2/3-MMP2/9 signaling pathway to alleviate cardiac fibrosis following MI. Male wild type (WT) C57BL/6J mice and Fgf21 knockout (Fgf21 KO) mice were used to establish the MI model and subjected to five weeks of different types of exercise training. Both aerobic exercise training (AET) and resistance exercise training (RET) significantly alleviated cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis, up-regulated FGF21 protein expression, inhibited the activation of TGF-β1-Smad2/3-MMP2/9 signaling pathway and collagen production, and meanwhile, enhanced antioxidant capacity and reduced cell apoptosis in the infarcted heart. In contrast, knockout of Fgf21 weakened the cardioprotective effects of AET after MI. In vitro, cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) were isolated from neonatal mice hearts and treated with H2O2 (100 μM, 6 h). Recombinant human FGF21 (rhFGF21, 100 ng/mL, 15 h) and/or 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR, 1 mM, 15 h) inhibited H2O2-induced activation of the TGF-β1-Smad2/3-MMP2/9 signaling pathway, promoted CFs apoptosis and reduced collagen production. In conclusion, exercise training increases FGF21 protein expression, inactivates the TGF-β1-Smad2/3-MMP2/9 signaling pathway, alleviates cardiac fibrosis, oxidative stress, and cell apoptosis, and finally improves cardiac function in mice with MI. FGF21 plays an important role in the anti-fibrosis effect of exercise training.

Abstract Background An online version of the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes (Abbreviated) tool was adapted to virtually audit built environment features supportive of physical activity. The current study assessed inter-rater reliability of MAPS Online between in-person raters and online raters unfamiliar with the regions. Methods In-person and online audits were conducted for a total of 120 quarter-mile routes (60 per site) in Phoenix, AZ and San Diego, CA. Routes in each city included 40 residential origins stratified by walkability and SES, and 20 commercial centers. In-person audits were conducted by raters residing in their region. Online audits were conducted by raters in the alternate location using Google Maps (Aerial and Street View) images. The MAPS Abbreviated Online tool consisted of four sections: overall route, street segments, crossings and cul-de-sacs. Items within each section were grouped into subscales, and inter-rater reliability (ICCs) was assessed for subscales at multiple levels of aggregation. Results Online and in-person audits showed excellent agreement for overall positive microscale (ICC = 0.86, 95% CI [0.80, 0.90]) and grand scores (ICC = 0.93, 95% CI [0.89, 0.95]). Substantial to near-perfect agreement was found for 21 of 30 (70%) subscales, valence, and subsection scores, with ICCs ranging from 0.62, 95% CI [0.50, 0.72] to 0.95, 95% CI [0.93, 0.97]. Lowest agreement was found for the aesthetics and social characteristics scores, with ICCs ranging from 0.07, 95% CI [−0.12, 0.24] to 0.27, 95% CI [0.10, 0.43]. Conclusions Results support use of the MAPS Abbreviated Online tool to reliably assess microscale neighborhood features that support physical activity and may be used by raters residing in different geographic regions and unfamiliar with the audit areas.

The recent increase in zoonotic avian influenza A(H7N9) disease in China is a cause of public health concern. Most of the A(H7N9) viruses previously reported have been of low pathogenicity. We report the fatal case of a patient in China who was infected with an A(H7N9) virus having a polybasic amino acid sequence at its hemagglutinin cleavage site (PEVPKRKRTAR/GL), a sequence suggestive of high pathogenicity in birds. Its neuraminidase also had R292K, an amino acid change known to be associated with neuraminidase inhibitor resistance. Both of these molecular features might have contributed to the patient’s adverse clinical outcome. The patient had a history of exposure to sick and dying poultry, and his close contacts had no evidence of A(H7N9) disease, suggesting human-to-human transmission did not occur. Enhanced surveillance is needed to determine whether this highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H7N9) virus will continue to spread.

In 2015, a novel influenza A(H1N1) virus was isolated from a boy in China who had severe pneumonia. The virus was a genetic reassortant of Eurasian avian-like influenza A(H1N1) (EA-H1N1) virus. The hemagglutinin, neuraminidase, and matrix genes of the reassortant virus were highly similar to genes in EA-H1N1 swine influenza viruses, the polybasic 1 and 2, polymerase acidic, and nucleoprotein genes originated from influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus, and the nonstructural protein gene derived from classical swine influenza A(H1N1) (CS H1N1) virus. In a mouse model, the reassortant virus, termed influenza A/Hunan/42443/2015(H1N1) virus, showed higher infectivity and virulence than another human EA-H1N1 isolate, influenza A/Jiangsu/1/2011(H1N1) virus. In the respiratory tract of mice, virus replication by influenza A/Hunan/42443/2015(H1N1) virus was substantially higher than that by influenza A/Jiangsu/1/2011(H1N1) virus. Human-to-human transmission of influenza A/Hunan/42443/2015(H1N1) virus has not been detected; however, given the circulation of novel EA-H1N1 viruses in pigs, enhanced surveillance should be instituted among swine and humans.

With an increase in rural-to-urban migration, a rapidly aging population, and the rising risk of developing noncommunicable diseases in China, it is important to understand the epidemiology of physical activity (PA) and health in the context of disease prevention and population health. Despite its public health importance, there is a significant lack of knowledge about PA in older Chinese adults that may hamper primary prevention efforts of health promotion in an increasingly aging population. To fill this gap, this article presents a narrative review of PA in the older Chinese adult population with a special focus on residential settings (i.e., urban and rural). Using existing studies, the review examines overall PA patterns and their correlates and discusses public health implications and future research. Although there are some preliminary indications of urban and rural differences in PA in the aging population in China, continued research efforts are needed to facilitate primary prevention efforts aimed at reducing noncommunicable diseases and promoting an active lifestyle among the largest population of older people in the world.

Sporadic human infections with the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N6) virus have been reported in different provinces in China since April 2014. From June 2015 to January 2016, routine live poultry market (LPM) surveillance was conducted in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. H5N6 viruses were not detected until November 2015. The H5N6 virus-positive rate increased markedly beginning in December 2015, and viruses were detected in LPMs in all districts of the city. Coincidently, two human cases with histories of poultry exposure developed symptoms and were diagnosed as H5N6-positive in Shenzhen during late December 2015 and early January 2016. Similar viruses were identified in environmental samples collected in the LPMs and the patients. In contrast to previously reported H5N6 viruses, viruses with six internal genes derived from the H9N2 or H7N9 viruses were detected in the present study. The increased H5N6 virus-positive rate in the LPMs and the subsequent human infections demonstrated that sustained LPM surveillance for avian influenza viruses provides an early warning for human infections. Interventions, such as LPM closures, should be immediately implemented to reduce the risk of human infection with the H5N6 virus when the virus is widely detected during LPM surveillance.Emerging Microbes & Infections (2016) 5, e79; doi:10.1038/emi.2016.75; published online 3 August 2016

In spring 2013, influenza A(H7N9) virus was isolated from an apparently healthy tree sparrow in Chongming Dongping National Forest Park, Shanghai City, China. The entire gene constellation of the virus is similar to that of isolates from humans, highlighting the need to monitor influenza A(H7N9) viruses in different species.

We collected 2768 Influenza-like illness emergency public health incidents from April 1, 2005 to November 30, 2013reported in the Emergency Public Reporting System. After screening by strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, there were 613 outbreaks analyzed with susceptible-exposed-infectious/asymptomatic-removed model in order to estimate the proportion of asymptomatic individuals (p) and the effective reproduction number (Rt). The relation between Rt and viral subtypes, regions, outbreak sites, populations, and seasons were analyzed. The mean values of p of different subtypes ranged from 0.09 to 0.15, but could be as high as up to 0.94. Different subtypes, provinces, regions, and sites of outbreak had statistically significantly different Rt. In particular, the southern region also manifested different Rt by affected population size and seasonality. Our results provide China and also the rest of the world a reference to understand characteristics of transmission and develop prevention and control strategies.

Emerging Microbes & Infections (2017) 6, e50; doi:10.1038/emi.2017.38; published online 7 June 2017

Influenza A virus can infect a wide variety of animal species with illness ranging from mild to severe, and is a continual cause for concern. Genetic mutations that occur either naturally or during viral adaptation in a poorly susceptible host are key mechanisms underlying the evolution and virulence of influenza A virus. Here, the variants containing PA-A36T or PB2-H357N observed in the mouse-adapted descendants of 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus (pH1N1), A/Sichuan/1/2009 (SC), were characterized. Both mutations enhanced polymerase activity in mammalian cells. These effects were confirmed using recombinant SC virus containing polymerase genes with wild type (WT) or mutant PA or PB2. The PA-A36T mutant showed enhanced growth property compared to the WT in both human A549 cells and porcine PK15 cells in vitro, without significant effect on viral propagation in murine LA-4 cells and pathogenicity in mice; however, it did enhance the lung virus titer. PB2-H357N variant demonstrated growth ability comparable to the WT in A549 cells, but replicated well in PK15, LA-4 cells and in mice with an enhanced pathogenic phenotype. Despite such mutations are rare in nature, they could be observed in avian H5 and H7 subtype viruses which were currently recognized to pose potential threat to human. Our findings indicated that pH1N1 may adapt well in mammals when acquiring these mutations. Therefore, future molecular epidemiological surveillance should include scrutiny of both markers because of their potential impact on pathogenesis.

During the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the physical activity of older adults is at a lower level. The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of aerobic dancing on physical fitness and cognitive function in older adults. We conducted a randomized controlled trial with 34 older adults who were assigned into an aerobic dancing group and a control group. Three dance sessions weekly for 60 min were scheduled for the aerobic dancing group for a total of 12 weeks. Physical fitness, blood pressure, lipids, glucose, cognitive function were assessed before and after the intervention. Baseline adjusted Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine whether outcome variables varied between groups at pre-test and post-test. Effect size (Cohen's d) was calculated to determine the differences between groups from baseline to post-test. After 12 weeks, we found that the aerobic dancing group showed significant improvement in memory (portrait memory: F = 10.45, p = 0.003, d = 1.18). The Limit of Stability (LOS) parameters in the aerobic dancing group displayed a significant increase after the intervention (right angle: F = 5.90, p = 0.022, d = 0.60; right-anterior angle: F = 4.23, p = 0.049, d = 0.12). Some beneficial effects were found on flexibility, grip strength, balance and subjective well-being (sit and reach: F = 0.25, p = 0.62, d = 0.40; grip strength: F = 3.38, p = 0.08, d = 0.89; one-legged standing with eyes closed: F = 1.26, p = 0.27, d = 0.50) in the aerobic dancing group. Aerobic dancing training was effective in improving memory and balance ability in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. In the future, aerobic dancing is a promising tool to encourage physical activity in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burning of incense for home use is a widespread practice that has been shown to have significant negative impacts on human health and air quality. However, there is a lack of understanding regarding its emission profiles and associated health risks. To address this knowledge gap, we utilized a state-of-the-art thermal desorption comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (TD-GC×GC-MS) to (semi-)quantify the emission factors (EFs) 317 volatile compounds and thoroughly investigate the organic profiles of incense burning smoke across a full-volatility range. Results showed that toluene (70.8 ± 35.7 µg g-1) is the most abundant compound in incensing-burning smoke, followed by benzene, furfural, and phenol. Phenol, toluene, furfural, 2-furanmethanol, benzene, and benzyl alcohol are the main contributors to ozone and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) estimation. Intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs) accounted for 19.2% of the total EFs, but 40.0% of the estimated SOA. Additionally, a novel pixel-based method, combined with aroma analysis, revealed that furfural can act as a key tracer of incense burning, and is responsible for the distinctive flavor of incense smoke. High bioaccumulation potential (BAP) assessment using pixel-based partition coefficient estimation revealed that acenaphthylene, dibenzofuran, and phthalate esters (PAEs) are chemicals of high-risk concern and warrant further control. Our results highlight the critical importance of investigating home-use incense burning and provide new insights into the health impacts of incense burning smoke by novel approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]