Hypoxia promotes white adipose tissues browning in rats under simulated environment at altitude of 5000 m.

People living in plains tend to decrease in body weight or body fat percentage after entering the plateau. Previous studies have found that plateau animals can burn fat and release calories through white adipose tissues (WATs) browning. However, these studies have focused on the effect of cold stimulation that induced WATs browning while there's hardly study on the effect of hypoxia. In this study, we investigate that whether and how hypoxia contributes to WATs browning in rats from acute to chronic hypoxia. We constructed hypobaric hypoxic rat models by exposing 9-week-old male SD rats to a hypobaric hypoxic chamber for 1, 3, 14 and 28 days (Group H) under simulated environment at altitude of 5000 m. We also established normoxic control groups for each time period (Group C), as well as paired 1-day and 14-day normoxic food-restriction rats that were fed the same amount of food as the hypoxic group ate (Group R). We then observed the growth status of rats and recorded dynamic changes in histologic, cellular and molecular levels of perirenal WATs (PWAT), epididymal WATs (EWAT) and subcutaneous WATs (SWAT) in each group. Results showed that (1) Hypoxic rats had lower food intake, significantly lower body weight than control rats, and showed lower WATs index. (2) In group H14, ASC1 mRNA expressions of PWAT and EWAT in rats were lower than that in group C14, and PAT2 mRNA expression of EWAT was higher than that in both group C14 and R14. In group R14, however, ASC1 mRNA expressions of PWAT and EWAT in rats were higher than both group C14 and H14, and that of SWAT was also significantly higher than group C14. (3) In group H3, both the mRNA and protein levels of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) of PWAT in rats were significantly increased than group C3. And in group H14, those of EWAT in rats were significantly increased than group C14. (4) In plasma of rats, norepinephrine (NE) level was significantly increased in group H3 than group C3, and free fatty acids (FFAs) level was significantly increased in group H14 than both group C14 and R14. In group R1, FASN mRNA expressions of PWAT and EWAT in rats were down-regulated than group C1. In group H3, FASN mRNA expressions of PWAT and EWAT in rats were down-regulated while ATGL mRNA expression of EWAT was up-regulated than group C3. Conversely, in group R14, FASN mRNA expressions of PWAT and EWAT in rats were significantly up-regulated than group C14 and H14. These results suggested that hypoxia promoted different WATs browning in rats under simulated environment at altitude of 5000 m and changed the lipid metabolism in WATs. Furthermore, rats in the chronic hypoxic group showed a completely different lipid metabolism of WATs from that in paired food-restriction group.

Chinese Expert Consensus on the Use of Biologics in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis (2022, Zhuhai).

BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common inflammatory disease in otolaryngology, mainly manifested as nasal congestion, nasal discharge, facial pain/pressure, and smell disorder. CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), an important phenotype of CRS, has a high recurrence rate even after receiving corticosteroids and/or functional endoscopic sinus surgery. In recent years, clinicians have focused on the application of biological agents in CRSwNP. However, it has not reached a consensus on the timing and selection of biologics for the treatment of CRS so far. SUMMARY: We reviewed the previous studies of biologics in CRS and summarized the indications, contraindications, efficacy assessment, prognosis, and adverse effects of biologics. Also, we evaluated the treatment response and adverse reactions of dupilumab, omalizumab, and mepolizumab in the management of CRS and made recommendations. KEY MESSAGES: Dupilumab, omalizumab, and mepolizumab have been approved for the treatment of CRSwNP by the US Food and Drug Administration. Type 2 and eosinophilic inflammation, need for systemic steroids or contraindication to systemic steroids, significantly impaired quality of life, anosmia, and comorbid asthma are required for the use of biologics. Based on current evidence, dupilumab has the prominent advantage in improving quality of life and reducing the risk of comorbid asthma in CRSwNP among the approved monoclonal antibodies. Most patients tolerate biological agents well in general with few major or severe adverse effects. Biologics have provided more options for severe uncontrolled CRSwNP patients or patients who refuse to have surgery. In the future, more novel biologics will be assessed in high-quality clinical trials and applied clinically.

Effects of leptin on HPG axis and reproductive function in male rat in simulated altitude of 5500 m hypoxia environment.

High altitude hypobaric hypoxia environment impairs male's reproductive function. Leptin is an adipose tissue-derived hormone which regulates body weight homeostasis. Its receptor (LepR) has been found in all levels of male reproductive axis, indicating that it can affect male reproductive system in a direct or (and) indirect way. However, the role of leptin signaling in hypobaric hypoxia induced male reproductive dysfunction remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the changes of leptin levels in male SD rats in stimulated altitude of 5500 m hypobaric hypoxia environment and their effects on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis (HPG axis). A hypoxia animal model was established using a hypobaric hypoxia chamber. Rats were divided randomly into 1, 7, 14, 28-day hypoxia group, recovery group (14 days hypoxia+14 days normoxia) and their control groups. Hypoxia groups displayed obvious changes of testicular and epididymis index compared to control groups. The total number of sperm and sperm motility rate decreased dramatically, while sperm deformity rate increased in hypoxia groups. The flow cytometry analysis showed that the percentage of haploid in 1-day, 7-day and 28-day hypoxia groups increased while the proportion of diploid decreased in 14-day and 28-day hypoxia group. TUNEL staining showed that the testis cells apoptosis index (AI) of hypoxia groups increased significantly, and the apoptosis of cells mainly focus on spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The expression of GnRH in hypothalamus decreased dramatically under hypoxia condition, accompanied with the reduction of serum testosterone (T) level in 1-day and 28-day hypoxia groups and free-testosterone level (FT) in 1-day and 14-day hypoxia groups. Importantly, ELISA analysis showed that serum leptin level decreased in 7-day hypoxia groups and acylated-ghrelin, gastrin also changed, accompanying with reduction of LepR in hypothalamus in hypoxia groups. Immunohistochemical staining exhibited increased leptin and LepR in testis under hypobaric hypoxia conditions. Our results suggested that simulated high altitude hypobaric hypoxia environment decreased male reproductive function, depressed HPG axis activity and altered the serum concentration of hormones related to food intake in adult male rats. Additionally, hypobaric hypoxia induced the leptin-LepR expression in adult male rats' testis, suggesting leptin-LepR signaling may mediate hypoxia-induced impairment in male rats' reproductive system.

Different adaptations of Chinese winter-over expeditioners during prolonged Antarctic and sub-Antarctic residence.

Prolonged residence in Antarctica is characterized by exposure to isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environment. Winter-over expeditioners at research stations often exhibit a complex of psychophysiological symptoms, which varied by stations and sociocultural backgrounds. To understand the different patterns of psychophysiological responses provoked by environmental stress, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of mood and endocrine function in two groups of Chinese expeditioners who were deployed to sub-Antarctic (Great Wall Station, 62°S, N = 12) and Antarctic (Zhongshan Station, 66°S, N = 16) from December 2003 to 2005. Measures of mood, thyroid function, the levels of plasma catecholamine, and circulating interleukins were obtained at departure from China, mid-winter (Antarctica), end of winter (Antarctica), and return to China, respectively. The Zhongshan Station crew experienced significant increases in fatigue, anger, tension, confusion, and decrease in free thyroxine (FT4), norepinephrine (NE), and epinephrine (E) during the winter, increase in thyrotropin (TSH) and total triiodothyronine (TT3) when returning, whereas their counterparts at Great Wall Station only experienced increased TT3 after deployment. Moreover, compared with the Great Wall Station crew, the Zhongshan Station crew exhibited greater increase in anger, greater decrease in FT4, total thyroxine (TT4), NE and E over the winter, and greater increase in TSH when returning. Chinese expeditioners who lived and worked at the Antarctic station and the sub-Antarctic station for over a year showed different change patterns in mood and endocrine hormones. Negative mood and endocrine dysfunction were positively associated with the severity of environment. The study is a supplement to scientific knowledge on psychophysiological variation under ICE environment, which has certain applied value for the development of preventive countermeasures or interventions.

Circadian Rhythm and Sleep During Prolonged Antarctic Residence at Chinese Zhongshan Station.

OBJECTIVE: Residence at Zhongshan Station (69°22'24″S, 76°22'40″E) for over 1 year exposes winter-over members to marked changes of light-dark cycle, ranging from the constant daylight of polar days to the constant darkness of polar nights, in addition to geographic and social isolation. This extreme photoperiodic environment may increase the risk of sleep disturbances and circadian desynchrony. The aim of this study was to investigate the circadian rhythm and sleep phase of Chinese winter-over expeditioners at Zhongshan Station. METHODS: This study was conducted on 17 healthy male participants before departure from Shanghai and during residence at Zhongshan Station for 1 year (before winter, mid-winter, and end of winter). Sequential urine samples over 48 hours were obtained, 6-sulphatoxymelatonin in urine was assessed, and the circadian rhythm was analyzed by a cosine curve-fitting method. Participants' sleep parameters were obtained from wrist actigraphy and sleep logs. Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire and Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire were completed. RESULTS: The acrophase of 6-sulphatoxymelatonin rhythm, sleep onset, sleep offset, and mid-sleep time were delayed significantly (P < .05) in Antarctica relative to departure values. The subjects had greater eveningness preference (P < .05) in mid-winter in Antarctica. The Global Seasonality Score and the prevalence of subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder increased (P < .05) during winter. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that during polar nights Chinese expeditioners experienced the following problems: delayed circadian rhythm and sleep phase, later chronotype, and incidence of subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder. An appropriate combination of artificial bright light during dark winter months and a strict social schedule are recommended in a winter-over station in Antarctica.

Vagal predominance correlates with mood state changes of winter-over expeditioners during prolonged Antarctic residence.

OBJECTIVE: Winter-over expeditioners in Antarctica are challenged by various environmental and psycho-social stress factors, which may induce psychophysiological changes. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a crucial role in the adaptation process under stress. However, the relationship between ANS activity and the mood states of expeditioners remains largely unexplored. This study aims to uncover the pattern of ANS adjustment under extreme Antarctic environments and provide new insights into the correlations between ANS activity and mood state changes, which may provide scientific data for medical interventions. METHODS: Fourteen expeditioners at Zhongshan Station participated in this study. The study was conducted during four representative periods: pre-Antarctica, Antarctica-1 (pre-winter), Antarctica-2 (winter), and Antarctica-3 (summer). The heart rate variability (HRV) of the expeditioners was continuously measured for 24 hours to evaluate ANS activity. Plasma levels of catecholamines were tested by ELISA. Mood states were assessed by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale. RESULTS: HRV analysis showed a disturbance of ANS during winter and summer periods. For frequency domain parameters, very low frequency (VLF), low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and total power (TP) significantly increased during the second half of the mission. Especially, LF/HF ratio decreased during summer, indicating the predominance of vagal tone. Results of the time domain analysis showed increased heart rate variability during the austral winter and summer. Plasma epinephrine (E) significantly increased during residence in Antarctica. Compared with pre-Antarctica, the vigor, depression, and anger scores of the expeditioners decreased significantly during the austral summer. Notably, the depression score showed a moderate positive correlation with LF/HF, while weak negative correlations with other HRV indicators, including TP, VLF, and LF. Anger score showed a moderate positive correlation with LF/HF and weak negative correlations with the average normal-to-normal (NN) interval, and the root mean square of differences between adjacent RR intervals (RMSSD). Plasma E level weakly correlated with the average NN interval. CONCLUSION: Prolonged residence in Antarctica increased the ANS activities and shifted the cardiac autonomic modulation towards vagal predominance. The alteration of HRV correlated with mood states and plasma epinephrine levels.

Association of attenuated leptin signaling pathways with impaired cardiac function under prolonged high-altitude hypoxia.

Cardiovascular function and adipose metabolism were markedly influenced under high altitudes. However, the interplay between adipokines and heart under hypoxia remains to be elucidated. We aim to explore alterations of adipokines and underlying mechanisms in regulating cardiac function under high altitudes. We investigated the cardiopulmonary function and five adipokines in Antarctic expeditioners at Kunlun Station (4,087 m) for 20 days and established rats exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (5,000 m), simulating Kunlun Station. Antarctic expeditioners exhibited elevated heart rate, blood pressure, systemic vascular resistance, and decreased cardiac pumping function. Plasma creatine phosphokinase-MB (CK-MB) and platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (sPecam-1) increased, and leptin, resistin, and lipocalin-2 decreased. Plasma leptin significantly correlated with altered cardiac function indicators. Additionally, hypoxic rats manifested impaired left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, elevated plasma CK-MB and sPecam-1, and decreased plasma leptin. Chronic hypoxia for 14 days led to increased myocyte hypertrophy, fibrosis, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction, coupled with reduced protein levels of leptin signaling pathways in myocardial tissues. Cardiac transcriptome analysis revealed leptin was associated with downregulated genes involved in rhythm, Na+/K+ transport, and cell skeleton. In conclusion, chronic hypoxia significantly reduced leptin signaling pathways in cardiac tissues along with significant pathological changes, thus highlighting the pivotal role of leptin in regulation of cardiac function under high altitudes.

[Expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases exacerbated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs （2024, Chengdu）].

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-exacerbated respiratory disease （N-ERD） is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by eosinophilic inflammation, featuring chronic rhinosinusitis （CRS）, asthma, and intolerance to cyclooxygenase 1 （COX-1） inhibitors. The use of these medications can lead to an acute worsening of rhinitis and asthma symptoms. This condition has not yet received sufficient attention in China, with a high rate of misdiagnosis and a lack of related research. The Chinese Rhinology Research Group convened a group of leading young experts in otolaryngology from across the country, based on the latest domestic and international evidence-based medical practices to formulate this consensus.The consensus covers the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies for N-ERD, including pharmacotherapy, surgery, biologic treatments, and desensitization therapy. The goal is to improve recognition of N-ERD, reduce misdiagnosis, and enhance treatment outcomes.

Association analysis of gut microbiota-metabolites-neuroendocrine changes in male rats acute exposure to simulated altitude of 5500 m.

Hyperactivation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis were found in acute high altitude challenge, but the role of gut microbiota and metabolites is unknown. We utilized adult male Sprague-Dawley rats at a simulated altitude of 5500 m for 3 days in a hypobaric-hypoxic chamber. ELISA and metabolomic analyses of serum and 16S rRNA and metabolomic analyses of fecal samples were then performed. Compared with the normoxic group, serum corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticosterone (CORT), and thyroxine (tT4) were increased in the hypoxia group, whereas thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) was decreased. Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Parabacteroides, Butyricimonas, SMB53, Akkermansia, Phascolarctobacterium, and Aerococcus were enriched in hypoxia group, whereas [Prevotella], Prevotella, Kaistobacter, Salinibacterium, and Vogesella were enriched in normoxic group. Metabolomic analysis indicated that acute hypoxia significantly affected fecal and serum lipid metabolism. In addition, we found five fecal metabolites may mediate the cross-talk between TRH, tT4, and CORT with [Prevotella], Kaistobacter, Parabacteroides, and Aerococcus, and 6 serum metabolites may mediate the effect of TRH and tT4 on [Prevotella] and Kaistobacter by causal mediation analysis. In conclusion, this study provides new evidence that key metabolites mediate the cross-talk between gut microbiota with HPA and HPT axis under acute hypobaric hypoxia challenge.

High prevalence of coexisting prehypertension and prediabetes among healthy adults in northern and northeastern China.

BACKGROUND: Prehypertension and prediabetes are major risk factors of cardiovascular disease, and their combined presence may result in more serious cardiovascular outcomes than expected with either prehypertension or prediabetes alone. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of coexisting prehypertension and prediabetes, and the associated risk profiles in a Chinese population. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey in a representative sample of 3,595 men and 4,593 women aged 18 years and older was performed between 2008 and 2010. Prehypertension and prediabetes were diagnosed using the guidelines from the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on prevention, detection, and treatment of high blood pressure and American Diabetes Association, respectively. Prehypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure of 120-139 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure of 80-89 mmHg, and prediabetes was defined as a fasting blood glucose of 5.6-6.9 mmol/L. RESULTS: The prevalence of coexisting prehypertension and prediabetes was 11.0%. Men had a higher prevalence of coexisting prehypertension and prediabetes than women (14.2% vs. 8.4%; P < 0.0001). This prevalence increased with age and body mass index, and was the lowest among Mongolian-Chinese (5.1%). A multivariate analysis showed that γ-glutamyltransferase and uric acid were significantly and positively correlated with body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, and total cholesterol, and negatively correlated with high density lipoprotein cholesterol in subjects with prehypertension and prediabetes. CONCLUSIONS: There is a large proportion of Chinese adults with coexisting prehypertension and prediabetes. Thus, there is a need for more efforts that implement public health programs that target the earlier stages of hypertension and diabetes.

[Effects of rapid and progressive ascent to Tibet plateau on cardiovascular function and stress factors of pre-selected expeditioners for Chinese Antarctic expedition for Kunlun station].

Objective: To explore the different effects of rapid and progressive ascent to Tibet plateau on cardiovascular function and stress factors in pre-selected expeditioners for the 31st, 32nd and 33rd Chinese Antarctic expedition for inland station, to provide a scientific basis for the selection of qualified expeditioners. Methods: A total of 85 pre-selected expeditioners for the 31st, 32nd and 33rd Chinese Antarctic expedition for Kunlun station were enrolled in this study. According to the different manners of entering the plateau, they were divided into the rapid ascent group by aircraft (RAG, n=55) and the progressive ascent group by train (PAG, n=30). Hemodynamics and electrocardiogram were examined at 4 m (Shanghai), areas at altitude of 3 658 m (Lhasa) and 4 300 m(Yangbajain), respectively. Saliva levels of stress factors, including testosterone (T), cortisol (COR) and immunoglobulin A (IgA), were tested by ELISA. Results: The heart rates (HR) were increased significantly, while the SpO2 was decreased significantly in the two groups within 24 hours at altitudes of 3 658 m and 4 300 m (P＜0.05), while there was no significant difference between the two groups at the same altitude. Compared with 4 m, the blood pressure (BP) of the two groups at 3 658 m and 4 300 m was significantly increased (P＜0.05), and some indexes of myocardial contraction and pumping function were significantly reduced (P＜0.05). However, due to the increase of HR, there was no significant change in Cardiac Output (CO). At 4 300 m, the Thoracic Fluid Content (TFC) of the rapid ascent group was significantly higher than that of the progressive ascent group (P＜0.05). Compared with 4m, there was no significant difference in salivary testosterone change between the two groups at 3 658 m above sea level (P＞0.05), while COR and IgA changes in the rapid ascent group were significantly higher than those in another group (P＜0.05). Conclusion: Compared with the progressive ascent by train,expeditioners that rapid ascent to high altitude have significant effects on cardiovascular function and the stress hormones and immunoglobulin levels in saliva. It's suggested that hypoxia adaptation before Antarctic expediting for Kunlun Station could ensure the selected expeditioners' physical and psychological health, so that the mission could be finished smoothly.

[Effects of simulated 5 500 m hypobaric and hypoxia on HPT axis and intestinal flora in rats].

Objective: To investigate the effects of simulated hypoxia environment at an altitude of 5 500 meters on hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis and intestinal flora of rats and the correlation between them. Methods: The hypoxia model of adult male SD rats was established by hypobaric chamber with simulated altitude of 5 500 m. The hypoxia groups were set for 1, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days, and the normoxic recovery group were set for 1 and 3 days after hypoxia (8 rats per group, hypoxia time 24h per day). Daily body weight and food intake of rats were recorded. The serum levels of HPT axis hormones were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Intestinal flora was analyzed by 16s rDNA sequencing. The correlation between intestinal flora and serum HPT axis hormone was analyzed by Spearman correlation analysis. Results: Compared with the normoxic group, the body weight and food intake were significantly reduced (P＜0.01). In the 1-day and 3-day groups, the levels of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were decreased significantly (P＜0.05), the levels of total thyroxine (TT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were increased significantly (P＜0.05), and the abundance of Prevotella was decreased significantly (P＜0.05), while those of Parabacteroides, Lactobacillus, Butyricimonas, Bacteroides, Odoribacter and RC4-4 were increased significantly (P＜0.05). In the 14-day, 21-day and 28-day hypoxia groups, the levels of TRH and TSH were decreased significantly (P＜0.05), and the levels of TT4 and TT3 were increased significantly (P＜0.05), and there was no significant difference in other indexes, the abundance of Parabacteroides, Sphaerochaeta, Akkermansia, Elusimicrobium was increased significantly, but that of Lactobacillus and Sutterella was decreased significantly (P＜0.05). Correlation analysis of intestinal flora and HPT axis hormones showed that Butyricimonas, Elusimicrobium and Sutterella were significantly negatively correlated with TRH and TSH (P＜ 0.05), Prevotella, Bacteroides, Odoribacter and Parabacteroides were significantly correlated with TSH, TT4, TT3 and FT4 (P＜ 0.05), respectively. Lactobacillus was significantly correlated with TRH, TSH and FT4 (P＜0.05). Akkermansia was significantly correlated with TRH and FT4 (P＜0.05). RC4-4 was significantly associated with TSH and TT3 (P＜0.05). Conclusion: Hypoxia stress at an altitude simulating 5500 meters significantly changed the composition of the intestinal flora of SD rats. This may be a change in thyroid function adapted to the hypoxia environment, and the degree of change is related to the time of hypoxia stress. The change of intestinal microflora is significantly correlated with the hormone level of HPT axis.

Association between serum lipids, blood pressure, and simple anthropometric measures in an adult Chinese population.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death in China. Although body mass index (BMI) of the Chinese population was lower than that of Western populations, it has shown a rapidly increasing trend. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of anthropometric measurements such as BMI and waist circumference (WC) with blood pressure, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and the prevalence of hypertension as well as dyslipidemia in Chinese adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey in a representative sample of 881 men and 1098 women >25 years old was conducted during the period between 2002 and 2003. Height, weight, WC, resting blood pressure and serum lipid profiles including TG, TC, HDL-C and LDL-C were measured. RESULTS: TC, TG, LDL-C, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), as well as the incidence rate of dyslipidemia or hypertension, kept increasing steadily with BMI and WC. Meanwhile, HDL-C decreased with the two anthropometric measurements. Multiple regression analysis showed that both WC and BMI were independent CVD risk-associated factors and central obesity had a stronger effect on the development of CVD. Adjusted odds ratios for having dyslipidemia or hypertension also increased significantly with the growth of BMI and WC. BMI and WC had similar areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves in predicting CVD risk factors. CONCLUSION: In the Chinese population, both BMI and WC provided independent information in assessing cardiovascular risks. Chinese subjects had a higher CVD risk and lower BMI and WC than Western population. Efforts to halt the trend of increasing BMI and WC should be undertaken.

Hyperuricemia and clustering of cardiovascular risk factors in the Chinese adult population.

Hyperuricemia is common in China and the relevance of hyperuricemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk has been highlighted, but to date there has been rarely nation-wide study in China. Here, we aim to estimate the current prevalence of hyperuricemia and evaluate the associations between hyperuricemia and cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) clustering in a large sample of China adults including a plurality of ethnic minorities. Generally, a nationally representative sample of 22983 adults aged ≥18 years was recruited from 2007 to 2011. Questionnaire data and information on anthropometric characteristics, and laboratory measurements were collected. We define hyperuricemia as SUA ≥416 mmol/L for men and SUA ≥357 mmol/L for women. We found that the prevalence of hyperuricemia was 13.0% (18.5% in men and 8.0% in women). To our estimation, hyperuricemic subjects had higher prevalence rates of CRFs clustering than non-hyperuricemic subjects. Furthermore, there was a dose-response association between the number of CVD risk factors clustering and hyperuricemia. Our study revealed a high prevalence of hyperuricemia and CVD risk factors clustering among Chinese adults, and hyperuricemia was significantly associated with coexistence of more CVD risk factors. Therefore, guidance and effective lifestyle intervention are required to prevent hyperuricemia and CVD risk factors in China.

[Bone density of calcaneus of 2769 healthy persons in Zhejiang province].

OBJECTIVE: To provide a scientific basis for the diagnosis and prevention of osteoporosis in Chinese populations. METHODS: The stiffness index (STI) of the calcaneus was measured with the Achilles Express ultrasound apparatus made in USA among 2769 healthy persons, 1262 males and 1507 females, aged 10 to over 60, in Zhejiang province. The relationships between the STI and sex and age were analyzed. RESULTS: The peak STI appeared in the age 20 - 24 among the males, and appeared in the age 15 - 19 among the females. Beyond these age periods the STI decreased along with the age. The STI values of the males aged over 54 were significantly higher than those of the females the same age. The speed of STI decrease of the females aged over 55 was higher than the males of the same age (P < 0.01). The prevalence of osteoporosis was higher in the females than in the males. The STI was negatively correlated with age, and positively correlated with height and body weight in both sexes. The practically measured T values were mostly significantly lower than the instrument' T values (with young adult Japanese as reference population). CONCLUSION: There are significant relationships between STI and age, height, and body weight in both males and females. The distribution of bone mineral density of the reference population for the imported instrument does not completely accord with that of Chinese. It is necessary to establish a standard adaptable to the specific condition of Chinese.

[Ultrasonic bone mineral density of calcaneus in 1 816 healthy subjects in Guangxi autonomous region].

OBJECTIVE: To study the relationship between ultrasonic bone mineral density (BMD) of calcaneus and age, height, and body weight, and to establish the normal reference value for stiffness index (SI) of healthy subjects in Guangxi autonomous region and provide scientific foundation for the diagnosis and prevention of osteoporosis. METHODS: SI of calcaneus in 1 816 healthy adults aged 11-90 years (775 men, 1 041 women) were measured with quantitative ultrasound. According to their ages, all the men and women were divided into 13 groups by 5-year age group. RESULTS: SI reached peak values in 21-25 year group in men (range: 111.45 +/- 21.19) and in 16-20 year group in women (range: 101.26 +/- 17.51). Then the SI value began to decline with aging. The SI featured by a typical dual-peak curve in women and the decrease rate of SI was faster in women than in men over 61 years. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed significantly negative correlation between SI and age (P < 0.001), positive correlation between SI and body weight (P < 0.05 for men; P < 0.01 for women), and positive correlation between SI and height in women (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: SI correlates with age, height, and weight. The acquired SI value may provide a reference for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

[Distribution of systemic vascular resistance disorders and its related factors in Hebei province].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the distribution features of systemic vascular resistance (SVR) disorder in healthy subjects in Hebei province. METHODS: SVR and systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), pulse pressure (PP), heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), stroke volume (SV), stroke index (SI), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), left cardiac work (LCW) and cardiovascular function were determined with Bioz. com Cardio Dynamics. Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and influencing factor were tested by automated hematology analyzer in 999 healthy subjects living in Hebei province. RESULTS: SVR disorder gradually increased with the ageing in healthy subjects and the prevalences of SVR disorders was higher among females than among males (P < 0.001). SVR was positively correlated with SBP, DBP, MAP, PP, LVET, body mass index (BMI), TC, and TG, and was inversely associated with HR, CO, CI, SV, SI, LCW, and arterial compliance (AC). CO and MAP were independent influencing factors with SVR. CONCLUSION: SVR disorder is associated with age, sex, and blood pressure in populations in Hebei province and may be a marker of vascular injury.

The physiology constant database of teen-agers in Beijing.

Physiology constants of adolescents are important to understand growing living systems and are a useful reference in clinical and epidemiological research. Until recently, physiology constants were not available in China and therefore most physiologists, physicians, and nutritionists had to use data from abroad for reference. However, the very difference between the Eastern and Western races casts doubt on the usefulness of overseas data. We have therefore created a database system to provide a repository for the storage of physiology constants of teen-agers in Beijing. The several thousands of pieces of data are now divided into hematological biochemistry, lung function, and cardiac function with all data manually checked before being transferred into the database. The database was accomplished through the development of a web interface, scripts, and a relational database. The physiology data were integrated into the relational database system to provide flexible facilities by using combinations of various terms and parameters. A web browser interface was designed for the users to facilitate their searching. The database is available on the web. The statistical table, scatter diagram, and histogram of the data are available for both anonym and user according to queries, while only the user can achieve detail, including download data and advanced search.

Effect of the Antarctic environment on hormone levels and mood of Chinese expeditioners.

BACKGROUND: Serum thyroid hormones, plasma catecholamines and mood were examined in 10 male members of the 16th Chinese Antarctic Expedition who spent the 2000 austral winter at Great Wall Station. STUDY DESIGN: Samples were taken prior to deployment to Antarctica (December, 1999) and upon return to China 54 weeks later (December, 2000). The expeditioners also completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) each month over an 8-month period (April through November, 2000). RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in levels of serum total thyroxine (p < 0.01) and plasma epinephrine (p < 0.05), and a significant increase in serum TSH (p < 0.01). With the exception of a significant decline in level of vigor (p = 0.008), there were no significant changes in mood throughout the expedition. Low levels of pre- and post-deployment total triiodothyronine and high levels of TSH were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, and total mood disturbance at the beginning and end of winter. High levels of TSH were also significantly associated with high levels of fatigue (p < 0.001), while low levels of total thyroxine were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety (p < 0.001), depression (p < 0.05), and total mood disturbance (p < 0.05). Low levels of dopamine were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety (p < 0.05). An increase in anger during the austral winter was significantly associated with an increase in adrenaline during the expedition (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The increase in TSH, and its association with mood, is consistent with the polar T3 syndrome, while the absence of changes in free triiodothyronine and thyroxine may reflect characteristics of the environment, or racial/ethnic differences in psychophysiological, or socio-cultural adaptation to circumpolar environments.

[Analysis of the levels of serum total calcium and inorganic phosphate of 2,342 children in Beijing].

OBJECTIVE: To study the changes of serum total calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphate (P) levels during children growth and related factors. METHODS: Using a stratified-multi-steps-cluster sampling method, we selected 2,342 healthy children aged 10-18 years from urban and suburban areas of Beijing from September 2001 to December 2001 to test the levels of serum Ca and P. Their meal status was also surveyed to analyse the correlation of the leves of serum Ca and P with sex, age, height, weight, and diet on statistic basis. RESULTS: The Ca levels of Beijing children were (2.39 +/- 0.12) mmol/L, which had a positive correlation with age, height, and weight (P < 0.01). The Ca levels of female children were somewhat higher than those of male [male, (2.38 +/- 0.12) mmol/L; female, (2.39 +/- 0.12) mmol/L; P < 0.05]. The Ca levels of urban children were significantly higher than those of suburban children [urban, (2.40 +/- 0.13) mmol/L; suburban, (2.37 +/- 0.10) mmol/L; P < 0.001]. The P levels of Beijing children were (1.39 +/- 0.18) mmol/L, which had a negative correlation with age, height, and weight (P < 0.01). The P levels of male children were significantly higher than those of female [male, (1.43 +/- 0.18) mmol/L; female, (1.36 +/- 0.17) mmol/L; P < 0.001]. The P levels of urban children were significant higher than those of suburban children [urban, (1.41 +/- 0.19) mmol/L; suburban, (1.38 +/- 0.16) mmol/L; P < 0.001]. The Ca levels of Beijing children had a negative correlation with P levels (r=-0.141, P < 0.01). [Ca] x [P] (mmol/L) of Beijing children were 3.32 +/- 0.44. The value of [Ca] x [P] reached peak by 3.45 +/- 0.46 when Beijing children were of 13-14 years old, and then the value declined with increasing age. CONCLUSION: The levels of serum Ca and P correlates with sex, age, growth, and diet. The level of serum Ca goes up while P goes down during the children growth.