Search

Two novel species within the family Dictyosporiaceae are described and illustrated from terrestrial habitats on dead culms of bamboo and an unidentified plant, respectively. Through morphological comparisons and the multi-locus phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS, SSU, and tef1-α sequence dataset, two species, Gregarithecium bambusicola, Pseudocoleophoma paraphysoidea are identified. Phylogenetically, both species clustered into a monophyletic clade with strong bootstrap support. Gregarithecium bambusicola sp. nov. can be distinguished from other species within the genus based on its almost straight ascospores. Pseudocoleophoma paraphysoidea sp. nov. differs from other species in its conidiogenous cells intermixed with paraphyses, longer conidiogenous cells and larger conidia. The identification of this lineage contributes to our understanding of the classification of Dictyosporiaceae.

Abstract Background Metabolic reprograming and immune escape are two hallmarks of cancer. However, how metabolic disorders drive immune escape in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic landscape of HNSCC and its mechanism of driving immune escape. Methods Analysis of paired tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues from 69 HNSCC patients was performed using liquid/gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and RNA‐sequencing. The tumor‐promoting function of kynurenine (Kyn) was explored in vitro and in vivo. The downstream target of Kyn was investigated in CD8+ T cells. The regulation of CD8+ T cells was investigated after Siglec‐15 overexpression in vivo. An engineering nanoparticle was established to deliver Siglec‐15 small interfering RNA (siS15), and its association with immunotherapy response were investigated. The association between Siglec‐15 and CD8+ programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1)+ T cells was analyzed in a HNSCC patient cohort. Results A total of 178 metabolites showed significant dysregulation in HNSCC, including carbohydrates, lipids and lipid‐like molecules, and amino acids. Among these, amino acid metabolism was the most significantly altered, especially Kyn, which promoted tumor proliferation and metastasis. In addition, most immune checkpoint molecules were upregulated in Kyn‐high patients based on RNA‐sequencing. Furthermore, tumor‐derived Kyn was transferred into CD8+ T cells and induced T cell functional exhaustion, and blocking Kyn transporters restored its killing activity. Accroding to the results, mechanistically, Kyn transcriptionally regulated the expression of Siglec‐15 via aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), and overexpression of Siglec‐15 promoted immune escape by suppressing T cell infiltration and activation. Targeting AhR in vivo reduced Kyn‐mediated Siglec‐15 expression and promoted intratumoral CD8+ T cell infiltration and killing capacity. Finally, a NH2‐modified mesoporous silica nanoparticle was designed to deliver siS15, which restored CD8+ T cell function status and enhanced anti‐PD‐1 efficacy in tumor‐bearing immunocompetent mice. Clinically, Siglec‐15 was positively correlated with AhR expression and CD8+PD‐1+ T cell infiltration in HNSCC tissues. Conclusions The findings describe the metabolic landscape of HNSCC comprehensively and reveal that the Kyn/Siglec‐15 axis may be a novel potential immunometabolism mechanism, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for cancers.

Abstract Sarcodon and Hydnellum are two ectomycorrhizal genera of important ecological and economic value in Southwest China, and they are common in the free markets in this region. It was estimated that more than 1,500 tonnes of them were sold as edible per year, but there was little information about the taxonomic placements of these edible mushrooms sold in the markets. Traditional concepts of the two genera have also been challenged recently, and circumscription of Sarcodon and the informally defined clade “Neosarcodon” remained unresolved. In the present study, specimens collected in the field and purchased from the markets in Southwest China were analyzed based on morphological characters and DNA sequences. Phylogeny of the traditional Sarcodon s. lat. and Hydnellum s. lat. was reconstructed from the combined internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nuclear large ribosomal subunit (nLSU) and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2) dataset based on expanded samples to reevaluate the taxonomic placements of the two genera. In the present molecular analyses, four distinct clades were recovered and strongly supported: Hydnellum, Neosarcodon, Phellodon and Sarcodon. Neosarcodon is formally introduced as a generic name to include nine species previously placed in Sarcodon, and the delimitation of Sarcodon is revised based on phylogenetic and morphological studies. Phylogenetic analyses also revealed an unexpected species diversity (17 phylogenetic species) of Sarcodon and Hydnellum in the markets; nine phylogenetic species of Sarcodon and eight of Hydnellum were uncovered from the samples collected in the markets. Eight species were resolved in the traditional S. imbricatus complex, with S. imbricatus s.str. being the most common edible stipitate hydnoid fungal species. Three of the edible Hydnellum species (H. edulium, H. subalpinum, and H. subscabrosellum), and five separated from the S. imbricatus complex (Sarcodon flavidus, S. giganteus, S. neosquamosus, S. nigrosquamosus, and S. pseudoimbricatus), are described as new. Three new Chinese records (H. illudens, H. martioflavum, and H. versipelle), and the notable S. imbricatus and S. leucopus are also reported.

Abstract Background Perioperative neurocognitive disorders (PND) are the most common postoperative complications with few therapeutic options. Gut microbial dysbiosis is associated with neurological diseases; however, the mechanisms by which the microbiota regulates postoperative gastrointestinal and cognitive function are incompletely understood. Methods Behavioral testing, MiSeq 16S rRNA gene sequencing, non-target metabolism, intestinal permeability detection, protein assays, and immunofluorescence staining were employed to discern the impacts of surgery on microbial profiles, intestinal barriers, serum metabolism, and the brain. Interventions in mice included fecal microbiota transplantation, the anti-inflammatory agent dexamethasone, Lactobacillus supplementation, indole propionic acid supplementation, and palmitic amide administration. Results Surgery-induced cognitive impairment occurs predominantly in aged mice, and surgery-induced alterations in the microbiota composition profile exacerbate intestinal barrier disruption in aged mice. These adverse effects can be mitigated by transferring microbiota from young donors or by bolstering the intestinal barrier function using dexamethasone, Lactobacillus, or indole propionic acid. Moreover, microbiota composition profiles can be restored by transplanting feces from young mice to aged surgical mice, improving neuropathology and cognitive function, and these effects coincide with increased intestinal permeability. Metabolomic screening identified alterations in metabolites in mouse serum after surgery, especially the increase in palmitic amide. Palmitic amide levels in serum and brain can be decreased by transplanting feces from young mice to aged surgical mice. Oral palmitic amide exacerbates cognitive impairment and neuropathological changes in mice. Conclusions Gut microbial dysbiosis in mice after surgery is a key mechanism leading to cognition dysfunction, which disrupts the intestinal barrier and metabolic abnormalities, resulting in neuroinflammation and dendritic spine loss. Intestinal barrier damage and high level of palmitic amide in old mice may be the cause of high incidence of PND in the elderly. Preoperative microbiota regulation and intestinal barrier restoration may be of therapeutic benefit in preventing PND. Video Abstract

Abstract Background Glucose fluctuations (GF) are a risk factor for cardiovascular complications associated with type 2 diabetes. However, there is a lack of adequate research on the effect of GF on myocardial fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms in type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the impact of glucose fluctuations on myocardial fibrosis and explore the potential mechanisms in type 2 diabetes. Methods Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups: the control (Con) group, the type 2 diabetic (DM) group and the glucose fluctuations (GF) group. The type 2 diabetic rat model was established using a high-fat diet combined with low-dose streptozotocin injection and the GF model was induced by using staggered glucose and insulin injections daily. After eight weeks, echocardiography was used to assess the cardiac function of the three groups. Hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining were utilized to evaluate the degree of pathological damage and fibrosis. Meanwhile, a neonatal rat cardiac fibroblast model with GF was established. Western and immunofluorescence were used to find the specific mechanism of myocardial fibrosis caused by GF. Results Compared with rats in the Con and the DM group, cardiac function in the GF group showed significant impairments. Additionally, the results showed that GF aggravated myocardial fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, Ca2+/calmodulin‑dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) was activated by phosphorylation, prompting an increase in phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) and induced nuclear translocation. Pretreatment with KN-93 (a CaMKII inhibitor) blocked GF-induced Stat3 activation and significantly suppressed myocardial fibrosis. Conclusions Glucose fluctuations exacerbate myocardial fibrosis by triggering the CaMKII/Stat3 pathway in type 2 diabetes.

BackgroundHome-based exercise (HBE) represents an alternative to increase the accessibility of rehabilitation programs and relieve the burden on the health care system for people with knee osteoarthritis.ObjectivesTo summarize for the first time the effectiveness of HBE as compared to center-based exercise (CBE), both with and without HBE, on patient-reported and performance-based outcomes in people with KOA.MethodsSearches were conducted on PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus until March 10, 2023, without date or language restrictions. Randomized controlled trials investigating HBE versus CBE or HBE combined with CBE for people with KOA were eligible. The primary outcomes were patient-reported: pain, physical disability, and quality of life. The secondary outcomes were performance-based: walking ability, lower limb muscle strength, and balance function. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and quality of evidence according to the GRADE.ResultsEleven trials involving 956 participants were included. There was no difference in short-term pain (SMD, 0.22 [95% CI, −0.04 to 0.47], p = 0.09; I2 = 0%), physical disability (SMD, 0.17 [95% CI, −0.19 to 0.54], p = 0.35; I2 = 0%), walking ability (SMD, −0.21 [95% CI, −0.64 to 0.22], p = 0.33; I2 = 35%) and lower limb muscle strength (SMD, −0.24 [95% CI, −0.88 to 0.41], p = 0.47; I2 = 69%) between HBE and CBE. HBE combined with CBE has better benefits compared with HBE alone in short-term pain (SMD, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.60 to 1.17], p

Abstract Background Diabetes is associated with myocardial fibrosis, while the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The aim of this study is to investigate the underlying role of calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cell 3 (CaN/NFATc3) pathway and the Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in diabetes-related myocardial fibrosis. Methods Streptozotocin (STZ)-injected diabetic rats were randomized to two groups: the controlled glucose (Con) group and the diabetes mellitus (DM) group. Eight weeks later, transthoracic echocardiography was used for cardiac function evaluation, and myocardial fibrosis was visualized by Masson trichrome staining. The primary neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts were cultured with high-glucose medium with or without cyclosporine A or GSK126. The expression of proteins involved in the pathway was examined by western blotting. The nuclear translocation of target proteins was assessed by immunofluorescence. Results The results indicated that high glucose treatment increased the expression of CaN, NFATc3, EZH2 and trimethylates lysine 27 on histone 3 (H3K27me3) in vitro and in vivo. The inhibition of the CaN/NFATc3 pathway alleviated myocardial fibrosis. Notably, inhibition of CaN can inhibit the nuclear translocation of NFATc3, and the expression of EZH2 and H3K27me3 protein induced by high glucose. Moreover, treatment with GSK126 also ameliorated myocardial fibrosis. Conclusion Diabetes can possibly promote myocardial fibrosis by activating of CaN/NFATc3/EZH2 pathway.

As China’s urbanisation continues to advance, more people are choosing to live in cities. However, this trend has a significant impact on the natural ecosystem. For instance, the accumulation of keratin-rich substrates in urban habitats has led to an increase in keratinophilic microbes. Despite this, there is still a limited amount of research on the prevalence of keratinophilic fungi in urban areas. Fortunately, our group has conducted in-depth investigations into this topic since 2015. Through our research, we have discovered a significant amount of keratinophilic fungi in soil samples collected from various urban areas in China. In this study, we have identified and characterised 18 new species through the integration of morphological and phylogenetic analyses. These findings reveal the presence of numerous unexplored fungal taxa in urban habitats, emphasising the need for further taxonomic research in urban China.

The fungal taxa belonging to the Clavicipitaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycota) are widely distributed and include diverse saprophytic, symbiotic and pathogenic species that are associated with soils, insects, plants, fungi and invertebrates. In this study, we identified two new fungal taxa belonging to the family Clavicipitaceae that were isolated from soils collected in China. Morphological characterisation and phylogenetic analyses showed that the two species belong to Pochonia (Pochonia sinensis sp. nov.) and a new genus for which we propose Paraneoaraneomyces gen. nov. in Clavicipitaceae.

ObjectivesThis systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of body position on the measurement of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contractility and to analyze the influential factors.Data sourcesFive databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Scopus) were searched for relevant studies published up to 12nd October 2023.Study selection or eligibility criteriaIncluded cross-sectional studies had to involve the assessment of pelvic floor muscle function in at least two positions.Study appraisal and synthesis methodsWe calculated standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to ascertain the potential effect of body position on outcomes.ResultsIn total, we included 11 cross-sectional studies to ascertain the potential effect of body position on outcomes. There was no statistical difference in the results of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of the pelvic floor muscles when assessed in between supine and standing positions (SMD −0.22; 95% CI −0.72 to 0.28; p = 0.38). The results of the meta-analysis showed significantly larger values of resting voluntary contractions (RVC) measured in the standing position compared to the supine position (SMD −1.76; 95% CI −2.55 to −0.97; p

Thelebolales are globally distributed fungi with diverse ecological characteristics. The classification of Thelebolales remains controversial to date and this study introduces two new taxa, based on morphological and phylogenetic analyses. The results of phylogenetic analyses indicated that the new taxa formed distinct lineages with strong support that were separated from the other members of Thelebolales. The new taxa described herein did not form sexual structures. The phylogenetic relationships of the new taxa and the morphological differences between these taxa and the other species under Thelebolales are also discussed.

Abstract Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by the left ventricular dilatation and impaired myocardial systolic dysfunction with high mortality and morbidity. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We first identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the DCM and control group using two expression profiles from GSE3585 and GSE84796. Enrichment analysis was conducted to explore the potential mechanisms underlying DCM. A total of four algorithms, including key module of MCODE, degree, maximum neighborhood component (MNC), and maximal clique centrality (MCC), were used to identify the hub genes within Cytoscape. The correlation between hub genes and infiltrated immune cells was evaluated to determine potential immune-related genes. The expression analysis and diagnosis value analysis of potential immune-related genes were performed. Finally, the expression analysis with GSE57338 and relationship analysis with the comparative toxicogenomics database (CTD) were performed to identify the key immune-related genes in DCM. A total of 80 DEGs were screened for DCM. Enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs were involved in the immune-related pathological process. Immune infiltration analysis indicated a potentially abnormal immune response in DCM. Four up-regulated genes (COL1A2, COL3A1, CD53, and POSTN) were identified as potential immune-related genes. Finally, three genes (COL1A2, COL3A1, and POSTN) were determined as the key immune-related genes in DCM via expression analysis with a validation set (GSE57338) and relationship analysis with CTD. Our study suggested that the upregulated COL1A2, COL3A1, and POSTN might be the key immune-related genes for DCM. Further studies are needed to validate the underlying mechanisms.

Abstract Background Existing studies for ferroptosis and prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) were limited. In this study, we aim to investigate the prognostic role of ferroptosis markers in patients with CRC and exploration of its micro‐environmental distributions. Methods Immunohistochemical staining was performed for CRC patients’ tissue microarray. Selection and prognostic validation of markers were based on mRNA data from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to indicate relative immune landmarks and hallmarks. Ferroptosis and immune contexture were examined by CIBERSORT. Survival outcomes were analyzed by Kaplan‐Meier analysis and cox analysis. Results A panel of 42 genes was selected. Through mRNA expression difference and prognosis analysis, GPX4, NOX1 and ACSL4 were selected as candidate markers. By IHC, increased GPX4, decreased NOX1 and decreased FACL4 indicate poor prognosis and worse clinical characteristics. Ferroptosis score based on GPX4, NOX1 and ACSL4 was constructed and validated with high C‐index. Low ferroptosis score can also demonstrate the better progression free survival and better adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) responsiveness. Moreover, tumor with low ferroptosis score tend to be infiltrated with more CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and less M1 macrophage. Finally, we found that IFN‐γ was potentially the central molecule at the crossroad between ferroptosis and onco‐immune response. Conclusion Ferroptosis plays important role on CRC tumor progression, ACT response and prognosis. Ferroptosis contributes to immune‐supportive responses and IFN‐γ was the central molecule for this process.

This study focuses on the correlative mechanism of the ambient pressure and inflow uniformity on the vortex and cavitation dynamics of an axial flow pump. The shear stress transport k – ω turbulence model and Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model are applied in the unsteady detached eddy simulation. The results show that the vortex merging between the primary and secondary tip leakage vortices (TLV) happens earlier with the growth of the cavity at a lower ambient pressure. The contact position of the merged TLV to the adjacent blade moves upstream with the decrease in the cavitation number. As the uniformity of the axial inflow decreases, TLV merging and vortex shedding are also promoted. The nonlinear variation of the initial angle of attack of the impeller blade leads to the compression or expansion of sheet cavitation under non-uniform inflow conditions. The evolution process and energy transfer of the vortices are verified quantitatively using a power spectral density analysis of kinetic energy fluctuations, and the short-wave instability leads to the fast decline of spectrum peaks at a higher frequency in the cavitating flow. It is crucial to avoid severe changes of ambient pressure and inflow uniformity to ensure the design performance of pump in actual working environment.

Using chicken feathers as bait, Acremonium globosisporum sp. nov. and Acremonium curvum sp. nov. were collected from the soil of Yuncheng East Garden Wildlife Zoo and Zhengzhou Zoo in China. They were identified by combining the morphological characteristics and the two-locus DNA sequence (LSU and ITS) analyses. In the phylogenetic tree, both new species clustered into separate subclades, respectively. They were different from their allied species in their morphology. The description, illustrations, and phylogenetic tree of the two new species were provided.

BackgroundAccumulated clinical studies utilized intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) to guide percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO). However, its procedural success and safety compared to traditional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) remained elusive. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to compare efficacy and safety of ICE and TEE for LAAO.MethodsWe screened studies from four online databases (including the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science) from their inception to 1 December 2022. We used a random or fixed-effect model to synthesize the clinical outcomes and conducted a subgroup analysis to identify the potential confounding factors.ResultsA total of twenty eligible studies with 3,610 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients (1,564 patients for ICE and 2,046 patients for TEE) were enrolled. Compared with TEE group, there was no significant difference in procedural success rate [risk ratio (RR) = 1.01; P = 0.171], total procedural time [weighted mean difference (WMD) = −5.58; P = 0.292], contrast volume (WMD = −2.61; P = 0.595), fluoroscopic time (WMD = −0.34; P = 0.705; I2 = 82.80%), procedural complications (RR = 0.82; P = 0.261), and long-term adverse events (RR = 0.86; P = 0.329) in the ICE group. Subgroup analysis revealed that ICE group might be associated with the reduction of contrast use and fluoroscopic time in the hypertension proportion 50 subgroup and contrast use in multi-center subgroup, respectively.ConclusionOur study suggests that ICE may have comparable efficacy and safety compared to TEE for LAAO.

Background: The effects of conduction system pacing (CSP) compared with conventional biventricular pacing (BVP) on heart function in patients with heart failure remain elusive.Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane’s Library and Web of science databases were searched up to 1 October 2022 for pertinent controlled studies. Random or fixed-effect model were used to synthesize the clinical outcomes. Subgroup analysis was performed to screen the potential confounding factors.Results: Fifteen studies including 1,347 patients were enrolled. Compared with BVP, CSP was significantly associated with shortened QRS duration [WMD -22.51 ms; p = 0.000], improved left ventricular ejection fraction [WMD 5.53%; p = 0.000], improved NYHA grade [WMD -0.42; p = 0.000], higher response rate and lower heart failure rehospitalization rate. CSP resulted in better clinical outcomes in higher male proportion group than lower one compared with BVP. No significant differences of clinical outcomes were observed between left bundle branch area pacing (LBBaP) and his bundle pacing (HBP) except the pacing threshold. The pacing threshold of LBBaP was significantly lower than those in BVP and HBP.Conclusion: This study suggests that CSP might be superior to conventional BVP for HF patients. In a higher male proportion group, CSP may be associated with more benefits than BVP.Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022355991; Identifier: CRD42022355991.

Organic luminescent materials attract attention due to their wide application range, but many organic luminogens suffer from severe quenching effect in the aggregate state. Here, the authors demonstrate a macrocyclization induced emission enhancement by linking luminophores through methylene bridges to give a macrocycle.

BackgroundThe predictive effects of liver metastases for immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and the relationship between tumor mutational burden (TMB) and liver metastases (LM) remain unclear.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to explore the heterogeneity of ICIs efficacy between patients with or without LM. A pan-cancer cohort of 1,661 patients who received ICIs was downloaded and analyzed to assess the association between TMB and LM.ResultsOf 21053 studies identified in our search, eight single-arm studies and 24 randomized controlled trials were included. Overall, 17957 patients with advanced or metastatic cancers (4805 patients (26.8%) with LM and 13151 patients (73.2%) without LM) were enrolled. The pooled objective response rate (ORR) was 8.5% (95% CI 4%–13%) in the LM group versus 21% (95% CI 16%–21%) in the non-LM group. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) for death was 0.85 (95% CI 0.80–0.90) in the LM group treated with ICIs compared with the standard of care. In patients without LM who were treated with ICIs, the pooled HR for death was 0.78 (95% CI 0.73–0.82) compared with the standard of care. The difference in efficacy between patients with or without LM treated with ICIs was significant (p=0.04). Pan-cancer analysis revealed that the TMB-high rate was 10.8% in liver metastatic lesions versus 21.4% in other metastatic lesions (p=0.004). In addition, TMB was also significantly associated with OS as a binary cutoff (p=0.05) and was an independent prognostic variable (HR=0.98, P=0.047) as a continuous variable in patients with LM.ConclusionsIn patients with LM, the efficacy of immunotherapy was attenuated, but TMB-high could predict better survival outcomes.

* OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effectiveness of exercise-based rehabilitation programs compared with nonexercise intervention or no intervention for people with hand osteoarthritis (OA). * DESIGN: Intervention systematic review with meta-analysis. * LITERATURE SEARCH: We searched 5 databases on July 23, 2023. * STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomized controlled trials that compared the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs that included an exercise component, with nonexercise intervention or no intervention for people with hand OA. * DATA SYNTHESIS: Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were pooled using a random-effects model. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. * RESULTS: Fourteen trials were included in the meta-analysis (n = 1341 participants). In the immediate term (<24 weeks), there was low-certainty evidence of an effect of exercise-based rehabilitation on improving pain (13 trials; SMD = -0.65; 95% CI: -1.06, -0.25), function (11 trials; SMD = -0.35; 95% CI: -0.54, -0.15), and grip strength (14 trials; SMD = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.38). There was moderate-certainty evidence of an effect on reducing stiffness (7 trials; SMD = -0.33; 95% CI: -0.51, -0.16). There was low-certainty evidence of no effect on improving pinch strength and quality of life. For the long term (≥24 weeks), there was low-certainty evidence that exercise-based rehabilitation had no additional effect on improving pain, function, and stiffness. * CONCLUSION: Exercise-based rehabilitation improved pain, function, stiffness, and grip strength in people with hand OA in the immediate term; the benefits were not maintained in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aimed to explore the trend and risk indicators for dental caries of children aged 12 years in China based on national oral health survey data in 2005 and 2015. Methods Research data were from the two latest national oral health surveys conducted in mainland China, including 30 and 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in 2005 and 2015, respectively. Children aged 12 years were clinically examined for dental caries and dental fluorosis according to the World Health Organization criteria. Sociodemographic characteristics and oral health-related behaviours were collected using questionnaires. Multilevel zero-inflated negative binomial regression model was used to investigate the association between dental caries severity and dental fluorosis, sociodemographic characteristics, and oral health-related behaviours. Results The final analyses included 12,350 and 27,818 children surveyed in 2005 and 2015, respectively. The standardized prevalence of dental caries increased from 27.05% (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.25-28.85) in 2005 to 37.92% (95% CI, 34.94-40.90) in 2015, and the respective standardized mean decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) index scores increased from 0.50 (standard deviation [SD], 1.04) to 0.83 (SD, 1.45) (P < 0.001). Fujian province had the highest increase in dental caries, followed by Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Hainan, and Yunnan. Results revealed that children who were girls, more frequently experienced dental pain, and had more recent dental visits, had significantly higher DMFT scores after adjusting for the survey year and other variables (all P < 0.05). Conclusions Dental caries of 12-year-old children in China deteriorated from 2005 to 2015, particularly in the northeast and southwest regions. Dental caries was associated with sex, dental pain, and dental service utilization.

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important source of edible vegetable oil and feed protein; however, seed pigments affect the quality of rapeseed oil and the feed value of the residue from oil pressing. Here, we used a population of rapeseed recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the black-seeded male parent cultivar Zhongyou 821 and the yellow-seeded female parent line GH06 to map candidate genes controlling seed pigments in embryos and the seed coat. We detected 94 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for seed pigments (44 for embryos and 50 for seed coat), distributed over 15 of the 19 rapeseed chromosomes. These included 28 QTLs for anthocyanidin content, explaining 2.41–44.66% of phenotypic variation; 24 QTLs for flavonoid content, explaining 2.41–20.26% of phenotypic variation; 16 QTLs for total phenol content, accounting for 2.74–23.68% of phenotypic variation; and 26 QTLs for melanin content, accounting for 2.37–24.82% of phenotypic variation, indicating that these traits are under multigenic control. Consensus regions on chromosomes A06, A09 and C08 were associated with multiple seed pigment traits, including 15, 19 and 10 QTLs, respectively, most of which were major QTLs explaining >10% of the phenotypic variation. Based on the annotation of the B. napus “Darmor-bzh” reference genome, 67 candidate genes were predicted from these consensus QTLs regions, and 12 candidate genes were identified as potentially involved in pigment accumulation by RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analysis. These preliminary results provide insight into the genetic architecture of pigment biosynthesis and lay a foundation for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying seed coat color in B. napus.

ObjectiveTo explore the correlation between the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and thyroid dysfunction in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM).MethodsThyroid function testing in 755 consecutive patients with HOCM were examined at the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases (China) from October 2009 to December 2013. Patients were divided into four groups according to the TSH levels: TSH10.00mIU/L(n=17).ResultsA total of 107 patients were diagnosed with AF (14%).(1) Compared to HOCM patients without AF,HOCM patients with AF have older age (P

Hypertension is closely related to metabolic dysregulation, which is associated with microbial dysbiosis and altered host–microbiota interactions. However, plasma metabolite profiles and their relationships to oral/gut microbiota in hypertension have not been evaluated in depth. Plasma, saliva, subgingival plaques, and feces were collected from 52 hypertensive participants and 24 healthy controls in a cross-sectional cohort. Untargeted metabolomic profiling of plasma was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Microbial profiling of oral and gut samples was determined via 16S rRNA and metagenomic sequencing. Correlations between metabolites and clinic parameters/microbiota were identified using Spearman’s correlation analysis. Metabolomic evaluation showed distinct clusters of metabolites in plasma between hypertensive participants and control participants. Hypertensive participants had six significantly increased and thirty-seven significantly decreased plasma metabolites compared to controls. The plasma metabolic similarity significantly correlated with the community similarity of microbiota. Both oral and gut microbial community composition had significant correlations with metabolites such as Sphingosine 1-phosphate, a molecule involved in the regulation of blood pressure. Plasma metabolites had a larger number of significant correlations with bacterial genera than fungal genera. The shared oral/gut bacterial genera had more correlations with metabolites than unique genera but shared fungal genera and metabolites did not show clear clusters. The hypertension group had fewer correlations between plasma metabolites and bacteria/fungi than controls at species level. The integrative analysis of plasma metabolome and oral/gut microbiome identified unreported alterations of plasma metabolites in hypertension and revealed correlations between altered metabolites and oral/gut microbiota. These observations suggested metabolites and microbiota may become valuable targets for therapeutic and preventive interventions of hypertension.

Abstract Background Patients with locally advanced oral cavity cancer sometimes stopped treatment after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. There are no guidelines of the management for these patients. Before designing clinical trials, we conducted this study to investigate their characteristics, reasons of dropout, and the follow-up information. Methods Medical records were consecutively reviewed of patients with locally advanced oral cavity cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy from Jan 2017 to Dec 2019.Variables were compared between patients stopped treating after chemotherapy and completed treatments by student t-test and Chi-square test. Logistic regression model was used to calculate the odd rations of potential predictors of dropout. The dropout patients were followed up for reasons and results of their decision. Results A total of 171 patients were included with 23 not undergoing surgery after chemotherapy. The odd ratios of age over 65 and single marital status were 3.11 (95%CI: 1.1, 8.7) and 4.935 (95%CI: 1.5, 16.1), respectively, for the dropout. The median survival of patients without surgery was 7.4 months. Believing that chemotherapy would be effective and being afraid of the consequence of surgery were the main reasons of refusing surgery. Conclusions The prognosis was poor of these dropout patients. Symptom relief and fear of surgery were the reasons of dropout. Age and marital status affected their decision. Clinical trials are needed to be designed for these patients.

Reported here is the synthesis of a macrocycle with equatorial coordination sites for the construction of self-assembled metallacages. The macrocycle is prepared via a post-modification on the equator of biphen[n]arene. Utilizing this macrocycle as a ligand, three prismatic cages and one octahedral cage were synthesized by regulating the geometric structures and coordination number of metal acceptors. The multi-cavity configuration of prismatic cage was revealed by single-crystal structure. We prove that a macrocycle with equatorial coordination sites can be an excellent building block for synthesizing structure-diverse metallacages. Our results provide a typical example and a general method for the design and synthesis of metallacages.

Objective To explore how to correctly interpret the results of CMIA screening for anti-treponema pallidum specific antibody(S/CO ＞ 1) in children. Methods From July 2018 to June 2019, 23 038 patients had been screened for anti-TP antibody by CMIA, the positive results(S/CO ＞ 1) were re-examined by Treponema pallidum particle agglutination assay(TPPA), TP nonspecific antibody was checked by tolulized red unheated serum test(TRUST) and TP specific IgG and IgM antibody were confirmed by Western blot. Results Totally 23 038 patients were screened for anti-TP antibody by CMIA, among them 141 were positive(S/CO＞1) with and the positive rate as 0.61%(141/23 038). The re-test results of 141 children(S/CO＞1) were as follows: the number of positive cases of TRUST, TPPA, IgG and IgM were 2(1.42%, 2/141), 7(4.96%, 7/141), 13(9.22%, 13/141) and 6(4.25%, 6/141), respectively. In addition, 11 cases with S/CO＞10, including the number of positive cases of TRUST, TPPA, IgG and IgM were 2(18.18%, 2/11),7(63.64%,7/11), 10(90.91%, 10/11) and 3(27.27%, 3/11) , respectively, 10(90.91%, 10/11) cases of parents had syphilis history and 9(81.82%, 9/11) cases were younger than 6 months. Conclusions Screening the children with Treponema pallidum by CMIA, when the S/CO＜10, the false-positive rate was high when the S/CO＜10, which must be excluded by confirmatory methods. The correct interpretation of syphilis test results should combine with the age of the child and the history of syphilis of his or her parents.

Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression has been approved as an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) response predictive biomarker; however, the clinicopathological and molecular features of HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma [HPV(+)OPSCC] based on PD-L1 expression are not well studied. We aimed to characterize clinicopathological, tumor immune microenvironmental, and molecular features of HPV(+)OPSCC with different PD-L1 expression scored by combined positive score (CPS). A total of 112 cases were collected from 2008-2021 and received PD-L1 and CD8 immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. 71 samples received DNA sequencing out of which 32 samples received RNA sequencing for immune-related gene alterations or expression analysis. The 32 samples were also subjected to analysis of CD20, CD4, CD8, CD68, Foxp3 and P16 by multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) staining, and the immune markers were evaluated in the tumor body (TB), tumor margin (TM) and normal stroma (NS) regions separately. Our results showed that of 112 HPV(+)OPSCC tumors, high(CPS≥20), intermediate(1≤CPS

The biocorrosion of magnesium in the external physiological environment is still difficult to accurately evaluate the degradation behavior in vivo, particularly, in the microenvironment of the patients with hyperglycemia or diabetes. Thus, we explored the synergistic effects of glucose and protein on the biodegradation of pure magnesium, so as to have a deeper understanding the mechanism of the degradation in vivo. The surface morphology and corrosion product composition of pure magnesium were investigated using SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD and XPS. The effect of glucose and albumin on the degradation rate of pure magnesium was investigated via electrochemical and immersion tests. The adsorption of glucose and albumin on the sample surface was observed using fluorescence microscopy. The results showed that the presence of 2 g/L glucose changed the micromorphology of corrosion products on the magnesium surface by reacting with metal cations, thus inhibiting the corrosion of pure magnesium. Protein formed a barrier layer to protect the magnesium at early stage of immersion. The chelation reaction between protein and magnesium surface might accelerate the degradation at later stage. There may be a critical glucose (albumin) content. Biodegradation of pure magnesium was inhibited at low concentrations and promoted at high concentrations. The synergistic effect of glucose and protein restrained the adsorption of aggressive chloride ions to a certain extent, and thus inhibited the degradation of pure magnesium considerably. Moreover, XPS results indicated that glucose promoted the adsorption of protein on the sample surface.

Abstract Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a major clinical problem, but there is a distinct lack of effective therapeutic drugs for this disease. We investigated the potential therapeutic effects of zerumbone, a subtropical ginger sesquiterpene, in transgenic APP/PS1 mice, rodent models of AD which exhibit cerebral amyloidosis and neuroinflammation. Methods The N9 microglial cell line and primary microglial cells were cultured to investigate the effects of zerumbone on microglia. APP/PS1 mice were treated with zerumbone, and non-cognitive and cognitive behavioral impairments were assessed and compared between the treatment and control groups. The animals were then sacrificed, and tissues were collected for further analysis. The potential therapeutic mechanism of zerumbone and the signaling pathways involved were also investigated by RT-PCR, western blot, nitric oxide detection, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry analysis. Results Zerumbone suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and induced a switch in microglial phenotype from the classic inflammatory phenotype to the alternative anti-inflammatory phenotype by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway in vitro. After a treatment period of 20 days, zerumbone significantly ameliorated deficits in both non-cognitive and cognitive behaviors in transgenic APP/PS1 mice. Zerumbone significantly reduced β-amyloid deposition and attenuated pro-inflammatory microglial activation in the cortex and hippocampus. Interestingly, zerumbone significantly increased the proportion of anti-inflammatory microglia among all activated microglia, potentially contributing to reduced β-amyloid deposition by enhancing phagocytosis. Meanwhile, zerumbone also reduced the expression of key molecules of the MAPK pathway, such as p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Conclusions Overall, zerumbone effectively ameliorated behavioral impairments, attenuated neuroinflammation, and reduced β-amyloid deposition in transgenic APP/PS1 mice. Zerumbone exhibited substantial anti-inflammatory activity in microglial cells and induced a phenotypic switch in microglia from the pro-inflammatory phenotype to the anti-inflammatory phenotype by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway, which may play an important role in its neuroprotective effects. Our results suggest that zerumbone is a potential therapeutic agent for human neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, in particular AD.

Abstract Background Emerging evidence indicates that inflammasome-induced inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Several proteins including α-synuclein trigger the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. However, few studies examined whether inflammasomes are activated in the periphery of PD patients and their possible value in the diagnosis or tracking of the progress of PD. The aim of this study was to determine the association between inflammasome-induced inflammation and clinical features in PD. Methods There were a total of 67 participants, including 43 patients with PD and 24 controls, in the study. Participants received a complete evaluation of motor and non-motor symptoms, including Hoehn and Yahr (H-Y) staging scale. Blood samples were collected from all participants. The protein and mRNA expression levels of inflammasomes subtypes and components in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were determined using western blotting and RT-qPCR. We applied Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) immunoassay to measure the plasma levels of IL-1β and α-synuclein. Results We observed increased gene expression of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 in PBMCs, and increased protein levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β in PD patients. Plasma levels of IL-1β were significantly higher in patients with PD compared with controls and have a positive correlation with H-Y stage and UPDRS part III scores. Furthermore, plasma α-synuclein levels were also increased in PD patients and have a positive correlation with both UPDRS part III scores and plasma IL-1β levels. Conclusions Our data demonstrated that the NLRP3 inflammasome is activated in the PBMCs from PD patients. The related inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and total α-synuclein in plasma were increased in PD patients than controls, and both of them presented a positive correlation with motor severity in patients with PD. Furthermore, plasma α-synuclein levels have a positive correlation with IL-1β levels in PD patients. All these findings suggested that the NLRP3 inflammasome activation-related cytokine IL-1β and α-synuclein could serve as non-invasive biomarkers to monitor the severity and progression of PD in regard to motor function.

Background/Aims: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical condition that can lead to chronic kidney failure. Although mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC EVs) are regarded as a potent AKI treatment, the mechanisms underlying their beneficial effects remain unclear. Oct-4 may play an important role in tissue injury repair. We thus hypothesized that oct-4 overexpression might enhance the therapeutic effects of MSC EVs in AKI treatment. Methods: Renal tubular epithelial cells were cultured in a low oxygen environment, then cocultured with MSC EVs or control medium for 48 h. BrdU and transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining were used to assess cell proliferation and apoptosis. Mice subjected to ischemia reperfusion were randomly divided into 4 groups, then injected with either phosphate-buffered saline (vehicle), EVs, EVs overexpressing oct-4 (EVs+Oct-4), and EVs not expressing Oct-4 (EVs–Oct-4). Blood creatinine (CREA) and urine nitrone levels were assessed 48 h and 2 weeks after injection. After ischemia reperfusion, renal tissues from each group were stained with TUNEL and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) to determine the degree of apoptosis and proliferation. Masson trichrome staining was used to evaluate renal fibrosis progression. Snail gene expression was assessed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: At 48 h after hypoxic treatment, TUNEL and BrdU staining indicated that the EVs+Oct-4 group had the least apoptosis and the most proliferation, respectively. Treatment with EVs overexpressing Oct-4 significantly decreased serum Crea and blood urea nitrogen levels and rescued kidney fibrosis, as indicated by the low proportion of Masson staining, high number of PCNA-positive cells, and low number of TUNEL-positive cells. PCR analysis indicated that Snail was most upregulated in the vehicle group and least upregulated in the EVs+Oct-4 group. Conclusions: MSC EVs had a pronounced therapeutic effect on ischemic reperfusion injury-related AKI, and Oct-4 overexpression enhanced these therapeutic effects. Our results may inspire a new direction for AKI treatment with MSC EVs.

Summary: Multi-targeted kinase inhibitors, such as sorafenib, have been used in various malignancies, but their efficacy in clinical applications varies among individuals and lacks pretherapeutic prediction measures. We applied the concept of “click chemistry” to pathological staining and established a drug-loaded probe staining assay. We stained the cells and different types of pathological sections and demonstrated that the assay was reliable. We further verified in cells, cell-derived xenograft model, and clinical level that the staining intensity of the probe could reflect drug sensitivity. The stained samples from 300 patients who suffered from hepatocellular carcinoma and used the sorafenib probe also indicated that staining intensity was closely related to clinical information and could be used as an independent marker without undergoing sorafenib therapy for prognosis. This assay provided new ideas for multi-target drug clinical trials, pre-medication prediction, and pathological research. : Drugs; Medical Biochemistry; Biochemical Assay Subject Areas: Drugs, Medical Biochemistry, Biochemical Assay

ABSTRACT An investigation of members of the soil keratinophilic fungi community in China resulted in the identification of one new monotypic genus, Zongqia, and 10 new species, 2 of which are affiliated with Solomyces, 1 with the new genus Zongqia, 4 with Pseudogymnoascus, and 3 with Scedosporium. These novel taxa form an independent lineage distinct from other species, based on morphological and multilocus phylogenetic analyses. Descriptions, illustrations, and notes are provided for each taxon. These new taxa of the soil keratinophilic fungi add to the increasing number of fungi known from China, and it is now evident that numerous novel taxa are waiting to be described. IMPORTANCE Keratinophilic fungi are a group that can degrade and utilize keratin-rich material. It is also because of this ability that many taxa can cause infections in animals or humans but remain poorly studied. In this study, we reported a novel genus and 10 novel species, 7 novel species belonging to the order Thelebolales and 3 to the genus Scedosporium, based on multilocus phylogenetic analyses combined with morphological characteristics. Our study significantly updates the taxonomy of Thelebolales and Scedosporium and enhances our understanding of this group of the keratin-degrading fungal community. The findings also encourage future studies on the artificially constructed keratin-degrading microbial consortia.

Background: Age is an independent risk factor of the progress and prognosis of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, ablation outcomes between elderly and younger patients with AF remain elusive. Methods: Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science were systematically searched up to 1 April 2022. Studies comparing AF ablation outcomes between elderly and younger patients and comprising outcomes of AF ablation for elderly patients were included. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to adjust for random error and lower statistical power in our meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis identified possible determinants of outcome impact for elderly patients after ablation. Moreover, linear and quadratic prediction fit plots with confidence intervals were performed, as appropriate. Results: A total of 27 studies with 113,106 AF patients were eligible. Compared with the younger group, the elderly group was significantly associated with a lower rate of freedom from AF (risk ratio [RR], 0.95; p = 0.008), as well as a higher incidence of safety outcomes (cerebrovascular events: RR, 1.64; p = 0.000; serious hemorrhage complications: RR, 1.50; p = 0.035; all-cause death: RR, 2.61; p = 0.003). Subgroup analysis and quadratic prediction fit analysis revealed the follow-up time was the potential determinant of freedom from AF for elderly patients after AF ablation. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggests that elderly patients may have inferior efficacy and safety outcomes to younger patients with AF ablation. Moreover, the follow-up time may be a potential determinant of outcome impact on freedom from AF for elderly patients after AF ablation.

Purpose: : Carrimycin is a newly synthesized macrolide antibiotic with good antibacterial effect. Exploratory experiments found its function in regulating cell physiology, proliferation and immunity, suggesting its potential anti-tumor capacity. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-tumor effect of carrimycin against human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Methods: : Human oral squamous cell carcinoma cells (HN30/HN6/Cal27/HB96 cell lines) were treated with gradient concentration of carrimycin. Cell proliferation, colony formation and migration ability were analyzed. Cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry. The effect of carrimycin on OSCC in vivo was investigated in tumor xenograft models. Immunohistochemistry, western blot assay and TUNEL assays of tissue samples from xenografts were performed. The key proteins in PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and MAPK pathway were examined by western blot. Results: : As the concentration of carrimycin increased, the proliferation, colony formation and migration ability of OSCC cells were inhibited. After treating with carrimycin, cell cycle was arrested in G0/G1 phase and cell apoptosis was promoted. The tumor growth of xenografts was significantly suppressed. Furthermore, the expression of p-PI3K, p-AKT, p-mTOR, p-S6K, p-4EBP1, p-ERK and p-p38 were down-regulated in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: : Carrimycin can inhibit the biological activities of OSCC cells in vitro and in vivo, and regulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and MAPK pathways.

The genus Plectosphaerella is the largest genus in the family Plectosphaerellaceae. Some species are plant pathogens, whereas others are soil-borne. Seven Plectosphaerella isolates were collected from various locations in the southwest of China. Using multi-locus phylogenetic (LSU, ITS, EF1α, RPB2) analyses combined with morphological characteristics, two new species, Plectosphaerella guizhouensis sp. nov. and Plectosphaerella nauculaspora sp. nov. are described, illustrated and compared with related species.

Abstract Background Salivary gland carcinoma ranks the sixth in head and neck cancers while it is relatively rare in its incidence. Epidemiological studies have been based mostly on institutional data, leading to selection bias in incidence evaluation. Most population-based cancer registries have grouped cancers of the minor salivary glands with oral cancer instead of with salivary gland carcinoma as a whole, because of the international disease coding. Thus, the incidence of salivary gland carcinoma has not been well assessed. The aim of the study is to evaluate the incidence of both minor and major salivary gland cancers in Shanghai during the years 2003–2012, and to analyse the site and histological distributions. Methods Data from the Shanghai Cancer Registry system were extracted for patients diagnosed with malignancies of the major or minor salivary glands for the year 2003 to 2012. Pertinent socio-demographic data were obtained from the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Public Security. The age-standardized incidence rates were calculated directly according to the world standard population. The change in incidence during the study period was analysed by comparing the rates during the first and next five years. The distributions of anatomic subsites and histology were also analysed. Results A total of 1831 cases were identified, representing 0.35% of all malignancies during the study period. The median age was 59 and 57 years for men and women, respectively. The age-standardized incidence was 7.99 per 1,000,000 person-year, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.10. There was no significant change in the incidence during the 10-year period. The anatomic distribution confirmed the 4:1:2 rule for the parotid, submandibular, and minor glands. In men, adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified was the most common histological type followed by mucoepidermoid; in women, the mucoepidermoid was the most common histotype, followed by the adenoid cystic. Conclusion Salivary gland carcinoma is relatively rare in incidence. However, the variations in age and sex distribution in sites and histology types suggest differences in aetiology which warrants further investigation.

Twelve Ctenomyces (Arthrodermataceae, Onygenales) strains were obtained and identified during a survey of keratinophilic fungi in soils from China. We used molecular identification combined with morphological evidence to delimit species, circumscribing five species in the genus. Three new species are herein described: C. albus sp. nov., C. obovatus sp. nov. and C. peltricolor sp. nov. We also described, illustrated and compared the novel species with related species in the morphology.

Background: Both obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and obesity are related to cognitive deficits, but the interaction effects of OSAHS and abdominal obesity on cognitive function are unclear. Thus, we performed this study to investigate this issue. Methods: We recruited subjects who received polysomnography test, anthropometric measurements and cognitive function assessment and/or blood protein test. Correlations between apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and cognitive function were assessed. Analysis of covariance was used to compare the differences in cognitive function between groups and detect the interactions of OSAHS and obesity on cognitive function. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine the associations between OSAHS and cognitive function. Results: In total, 196 subjects with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), 161 subjects with Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Trail making test, and 44 subjects with blood protein test were enrolled. Significant negative correlations between AHI and visuo-spatial and executive, language, delayed recall and total score of MoCA were observed. After adjusting for multiple confounding factors, subjects with severe OSAHS had significant lower delayed recall score and total score of MoCA, SDMT index, and Aβ40 protein level than those with non-severe OSAHS group. Severe OSAHS was independently negatively associated with delayed recall score and total score of MoCA, SDMT index, and Aβ40 protein level. An interactive effect of severe OSAHS and abdominal obesity on language score of MoCA was found. Conclusions: Severe OSAHS increased the risk of cognitive deficits. Interaction effect of severe OSAHS and abdominal obesity on language was seen.