Unraveling the link between heavy metals, perfluoroalkyl substances and depression: Insights from epidemiological and bioinformatics strategies.

Heavy metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have become particularly important when studying the development of depression, a common illness that severely restricts psychosocial functioning and diminishes quality of life. Therefore, the potential joint effects of heavy metal and PFAS exposure on depression, as well as the underlying mechanisms involved, were investigated by using integrated epidemiological and bioinformatic approaches in the present study. A thorough analysis of 7301 samples from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles that occurred between 2005 and 2018 was performed. Single-exposure studies have shown that cadmium exposure is positively associated with depression, whereas perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) exposure and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDE) exposure are negatively associated with depression. Furthermore, the Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and quantile g-computation (QGcomp) models were employed to investigate the collective impact of exposure to mixed metals on depression. Cadmium emerged as the principal contributor to depression. Moreover, the addition of PFAS to the metal mixture had an antagonistic effect on depression, with PFOS having the most prominent influence. Analysis of the effects of co-exposure to cadmium and PFOS confirmed the presence of an antagonistic effect. The inflection points of cadmium and PFOS were determined to be -1.11 and 2.27, respectively. Additionally, exposure to cadmium and PFOS had the opposite effects on two crucial pathways, namely, the rap1 and calcium signaling pathways, which involve core genes related to depression such as ADORA2A, FGF2, and FGFR1. These findings have significant implications for future studies and provide new strategies for exploring the mechanisms underlying co-exposure effects.

Negative regulation of CD44st by miR-138-5p affects the invasive ability of breast cancer cells and patient prognosis after breast cancer surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate how the negative regulation of CD44st by miR-138-5p affects the invasive ability of breast cancer cell lines and prognosis in postoperative breast cancer patients. METHODS: RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, and western blot assays were used to detect the expression of CD44s, CD44v6, and CD44st at both mRNA and protein levels. The expression of miR-138-5p in breast cancer cell lines was also evaluated. The binding ability of miR-138-5p to CD44st was determined via a dual-luciferase assay. The CD44 protein expression in breast cancer tissues was detected using immunohistochemistry. A Transwell assay was used to detect the invasive ability of tumor cells. The correlation between CD44st and miR-138-5p mRNA expression in breast cancer tissues was evaluated using qRT-PCR, and the relationship between clinicopathological features was statistically analyzed. RESULTS: CD44s and CD44v6 were highly expressed in MDAMB-231 cell line, while CD44st was highly expressed in MCF-7/Adr and Skbr-3 cells. None of the CD44 isoforms were expressed in MCF-7 cells. The miR-138-5p was highly expressed in MCF-7 cells, but not in MCF-7/Adr, Skbr-3, and MDAMB-231 cells. The dual-luciferase assay suggested that miR-138-5p could bind to wild-type CD44st 3'-UTR, miR-138-5p overexpression significantly inhibited the expression level of CD44 protein in MCF-7/Adr cells, and miR-138-5p + CD44st (3'-UTR)-treated MCF-7/Adr and Skbr-3 cells were significantly less invasive than those in the control group (P < 0.05). RT-PCR results for 80 postoperative breast cancer patients showed that the mRNA expression rate for CD44st was higher in cancer tissues than in paracancerous tissues, and the expression rate of miR-138-5p was higher in paracancerous tissues than in cancerous tissues (P < 0.01). In cancer tissues, CD44st was negatively correlated with miR-138-5p expression, with correlation coefficient r = -0.76 (Pearson's correlation), coefficient of determination R2 = 0.573, F = 106.89, and P < 0.001. The median overall survival value for patients in the low miR-138-5p expression group was 40.39 months [95% confidence interval (CI): 35.59-45.18 months] and 56.30 months (95% CI: 54.38-58.21 months) for patients in the high-expression group, with a log rank (Mantel-Cox) of 13.120, one degree of freedom, and P < 0.001. CONCLUSION: In breast cancer cell lines, miR-138-5p negatively regulated expression of CD44st and affected the invasive ability of tumor cells and patient prognosis after breast cancer surgery.

HIV-1 drug resistance and genetic transmission network among newly diagnosed people living with HIV/AIDS in Ningbo, China between 2018 and 2021.

BACKGROUND: As the HIV epidemic continues to grow, transmitted drug resistance(TDR) and determining relationship of HIV transmission are major barriers to reduce the risk of HIV transmissions.This study aimed to examine the molecular epidemiology and TDR and evaluated the transmission pattern among newly diagnosed people living with HIV/AIDS(PLWHA) in Ningbo city, which could contribute to the development of targeted precision interventions. METHODS: Consecutive cross-sectional surveys were conducted in Ningbo City between January 2018 and December 2021. The HIV-1 pol gene region was amplified and sequenced for drug resistance and genetic transmission network analysis. TDR was determined using the Stanford University HIV Drug Resistance Database. Genetic transmission network was visualized using Cytoscape with the genetic distance threshold of 0.013. RESULTS: A total of 1006 sequences were sequenced successfully, of which 61 (6.1%) showed evidence of TDR. The most common mutations were K103N (2.3%), E138A/G/Q (1.7%) and V179D/E (1.2%). 12 HIV-1 genotypes were identified, with CRF07_BC being the major genotype (43.3%, 332/767), followed by CRF01_AE (33.7%, 339/1006). 444 (44.1%) pol sequences formed 856 links within 120 transmission clusters in the network. An increasing trend in clustering rate between 2018 and 2021(χ2 = 9.546, P = 0.023) was observed. The odds of older age (≥ 60 years:OR = 2.038, 95%CI = 1.072 ~ 3.872, compared to < 25 years), HIV-1 genotypes (CRF07_BC: OR = 2.147, 95%CI = 1.582 ~ 2.914; CRF55_01B:OR = 2.217, 95%CI = 1.201 ~ 4.091, compared to CRF01_AE) were significantly related to clustering. Compared with CRF01_AE, CRF07_BC were prone to form larger clusters. The largest cluster with CRF07_BC was increased from 15 cases in 2018 to 83 cases in 2021. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed distribution of HIV-1 genotypes, and genetic transmission network were diverse and complex in Ningbo city. The prevalence of TDR was moderate, and NVP and EFV were high-level NNRTI resistance. Individuals aged ≥ 60 years old were more easily detected in the networks and CRF07_BC were prone to form rapid growth and larger clusters. These date suggested that surveillance and comprehensive intervention should be designed for key rapid growth clusters to reduce the potential risk factors of HIV-1 transmission.

Development and validation of a risk score for predicting inconsistent condom use with women among men who have sex with men and women.

BACKGROUND: Men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) are the most important bridge population for HIV transmission. Condom use plays an important role for HIV infection. However the predictors for condom ues with females are not well characterized. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study. Participants were enrolled by four community-based organizations (CBOs) by offline (bathrooms, bars), and online (gay applications, chat room) from April to December 2019. Electronic questionnare was fulfilled after a face-to-face training led by CBOs. We identified predictors of inconsistent condom use with females by creating a risk score based on regression coefficients. We externally validated this score via an independent cross-sectional survey conducted in Zhejiang Province in 2021. A total of 917, 615 MSMW were included in analysis in 2019 and 2021, seperately. RESULTS: Among 917 MSMW, 73.2% reported heterosexual behavior in the prior 6 months and 38.3% reported inconsistent condom use with females (ICUF) over that time. Compared with heterosexual/unsure MSMW, bisexual MSMW reported more male and female sex partners, higher proportion of inconsistent condom use with males, less commercial sex with males (p < 0.05). Four risky predictors of ICUF were identified: Duration of local residence ≦6 months; more than one male partner in the prior 6 months; inconsistent condom use with males in the prior 6 months; and never heard post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). The proportions of respondents indicating ICUF in the low- (0), medium- (2-4) and high-risk (6-20) groups (according to our risk scoring system) were 11.7% (14/120), 26.9% (96/357), and 78.1% (125/160), respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). In the validation survey, the respective proportions of those reporting ICUF were 13.4% (15/112), 17.8% (24/185) and 87.3% (96/110) (Ptrend < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We developed and validated a predictive risk score for ICUF among MSMW; four factors were identified, of which inconsistent condom use with men was the most important. Risk reduction intervention programs should focus on MSM who report inconsistent condom use with males, never heard PEP, having multiple partners and living in local less than 6 months.

Prevalence and associated factors of HIV self-testing among men who have sex with men in Ningbo, China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: HIV testing and early linkage to care are critical for reducing the risk of HIV transmission. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a useful tool for increasing HIV testing frequency.This study aimed to investigate HIVST rates among men who have sex with men (MSM), the characteristics of MSM who had HIVST, and factors associated with HIVST uptake among MSM in Ningbo, China. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to October 2019 in Ningbo,China. Participants were aged at least 18 years and having had sexual contact with men in the past year. Proportions were used for categorical variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) for characteristics associated with HIVST uptake was processed by multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS: Among a sample of 699 MSM recruited, 38.2% had reported previous use of an HIV self-test kit. A greater proportion of HIVST users had a higher frequency of HIV testing (≥ 2 times: 70.0% versus 41.2%, p < 0.001) in the past 1 year. The odds of older age (30-39 years: AOR = 0.49, CI 0.32-0.76; more than 40 years: AOR = 0.07, CI 0.04-0.14, compared to 18-29 years), bisexual (AOR = 0.49, CI 0.29-0.84) were lower among HIVST users,and were higher among MSM who were higher education level (high school: AOR = 2.82, CI 1.70-4.69, compared to middle school or less), gay apps use (AOR = 1.86, CI 1.13-3.05), multiple male sex partners (AOR = 1.90, CI 1.29-2.80), frequency of male-male sexual contact ≥ 1 times per week (AOR = 1.86, CI 1.30-2.66), syphilis infection (AOR = 5.48, CI 2.53-11.88). CONCLUSIONS: Further HIVST education should be strengthened for school-aged children and teenagers, and free HIVST kits may be provided to high-risk MSM through gay apps and CBO to achieve the increased HIV testing frequency.

[Highly Efficient Bilayer-Structure Yellow-Green OLED with MADN Hole-Transport Layer and the Impedance Spectroscopy Analysis].

Abstract Highly efficient bilayer-structure yellow-green organic light-emitting device (OLED) has been demonstrated based on MADN as hole-transport layer (HTL) and host-guest coped system of [Alq3: 0.7 Wt% rubrene] as emitting and electron-trans- port layer. The device gives yellow-green emission through incomplete energy transfer from the host of Alq3 to the guest of ru- brene. An electroluminescent peak of 560 nm, 1931 CIE color coordinates of (0.46, 0.52) and a maximum current efficiency of 7.63 cd · A⁻¹ (which has been enhanced by 30% in comparison with the counterpart having conventional NPB HTL) are ob- served. The hole-transporting characteristics of MADN and NPB have been systematically investigated by constructing hole-only devices and employing impedance spectroscopy analysis. Our results indicate that MADN can be served as an effective hole-trans- port material and its hole-transporting ability is slightly inferior to NPB. This overcomes the shortcoming of hole transporting more quickly than electron in OLED and improves carrier balance in the emitting layer. Consequently, the device current efficien- cy is promoted. In addition, the current efficiency of bilayer-structure OLED with MADN as HTL is comparable to that of conv- entinol trilayer-structure device with MADN as HTL and Alq3 as electron-transport layer. This indicates that the simplified bi- layer-structure device can be achieved without sacrificing current efficiency. The emitting layer of [Alq: 0.7 Wt% rubrene possesses superior elecron-transporting ability.

Soy Product Consumption and the Risk of Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies.

BACKGROUND: The association between soy product consumption and cancer risk varies among studies. Therefore, this comprehensive meta-analysis of observational studies examines the association between soy product consumption and total cancer risk. METHODS: This study was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Up to October 2023, all eligible published studies were searched through PubMed and Web of Science databases. RESULTS: A total of 52 studies on soy product consumption were included in this meta-analysis (17 cohort studies and 35 case-control studies). High consumption of total soy products (RR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.80), tofu (RR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.70, 0.86), and soymilk (RR: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.93) were associated with reduced total cancer risk. No association was found between high consumption of fermented soy products (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.95, 1.47), non-fermented soy products (RR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.77, 1.18), soy paste (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.88, 1.14), miso soup (RR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.87, 1.12), or natto (RR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.82, 1.11) and cancer risk. A 54 g per day increment of total soy products reduced cancer risk by 11%, a 61 g per day increment of tofu reduced cancer risk by 12%, and a 23 g per day increment of soymilk reduced cancer risk by 28%, while none of the other soy products were associated with cancer risk. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that high total soy product consumption, especially soymilk and tofu, is associated with lower cancer risk. More prospective cohort studies are still needed to confirm the causal relationship between soy product consumption and cancer risk.

Visual analysis of acupuncture point selection patterns and related mechanisms in acupuncture for hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension has become one of the most pathogenic diseases in the world. OBJECTIVE: This paper summarizes and analyzes the acupuncture point combinations and treatment principles of acupuncture for hypertension in a systematic way by means of big data mining. METHODS: The literature for this paper was obtained from CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed and PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Ovid databases. Thedata were collected to obtain combinations of acupoints with strong associations through association rule analysis, complex networks for screening to obtain core acupoint nuclei, and cluster analysis to derive treatment principles. RESULTS: A total of 127 acupuncture prescriptions involving 66 acupoints were included in this study. Tai-chong (LR3), Qu-chi (LI11), Zu-san-li (ST36), Feng-chi (GB20), and He-gu (LI4) were the most commonly used acupoints. The large intestine meridian was the preferred meridian, and most of the extremity acupoints, especially the lower extremities, were selected clinically. The association rule reveals that Qu-chi (LI11) and Zu-san-li (ST36) are the dominant combination acupoints. 3 core association points obtained after complex network analysis, the 1st association, Bai-hui (DU20), Tai-xi (KI3), Gan-shu (BL18), Shen-shu (BL23); The 2nd association, Qu-chi (LI11), He-gu (LI4), San-yin-jiao (SP6), Zu-san-li (ST36), Feng-chi (GB20), Tai-chong (LR3); The 3rd association, Qi-hai (RN6), Guan-yuan (RN4), Zhong-wan (RN12), Zhao-hai (KI6), Tai-yang (EX-HN5), Lie-que (LU7), Yang-ling-quan (GB34), Xing-jian (LR2), Yin-ling-quan (SP9). Cluster analysis yielded the treatment principles of nourishing Yin and submerging Yang, pacifying the liver and submerging Yang, tonifying Qi and Blood, and calming the mind and restoring the pulse, improving clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: By means of big data mining, we can provide reference for acupuncture point grouping and selection for clinical acupuncture treatment of hypertension.

Exploration for the Priority of HIV Intervention: Modelling Health Impact and Cost-Effectiveness - Six Cities, Eastern China, 2019-2028.

Introduction: In order to enhance the effectiveness of resource allocation, regions must tailor their responses to their specific epidemiological and economic situations. Methods: Utilizing Spectrum software, we projected the cost-effectiveness of 10 chosen HIV interventions in six cities in eastern China from 2019 to 2028. We assessed three scenarios - Base, Achievable, and Idealized - for each city. The analysis included the projected number of HIV infections and deaths averted, as well as the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for each intervention in the six cities. Results: In Shijiazhuang, Wuxi, Yantai, and Zhenjiang, cities with initially low antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, ART showed significant effectiveness, especially for males. Conversely, in Foshan and Ningbo, where ART coverage was notably high, oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men (MSM) proved effective in the Idealized scenario. MSM outreach, ART for males, and ART for females demonstrated cost-effectiveness across all six cities in both Achievable and Idealized scenarios at the predefined thresholds for each city. Discussion: Maintaining an appropriate coverage rate for outreach to MSM can lead to cost-effectiveness. In cities with low ART coverage, scaling up ART remains a crucial intervention. In regions with high ART coverage, consideration may be given to the utilization of oral PrEP for MSM individuals, requiring budget allocation.

[Comparison of open reduction hollow nail anchoring system with loop plate fixation under arthroscopy for the treatment of posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures].

OBJECTIVE: To compare clinical effect between open reduction and fixation with cannulated screw and threaded rivet via posteromedial approach versus arthroscopic Endobutton plate fixation in treating posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures. METHODS: Clinical data of 38 patients with posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures from July 2020 to December 2021 were analyzed retrospectively, and divided into open reduction and internal fixation group (posterior medial approach hollow anchor system fixation) and arthroscopic fixation group (Endobutton with loop plate fixation under arthroscopy). There were 20 patients in open reduction and internal fixation group, including 16 males and 4 females, aged from 26 to 74 years old with an average of (42.9±18.8) years old;13 patients on the left side and 7 patients on the right side;12 patients were classified to typeⅡand 8 patiens with type Ⅲ according to Meyers-McKeever fractures classification;14 patients were gradeⅡand 6 patients were grade Ⅲ in back drawer test. There were 18 patients in arthroscopic fixation group, including 11 males and 7 females;aged from 24 to 70 years old with an average of (53.5±13.4) years old;11 patients on the left side and 7 patients on the right side;10 patients were classified to typeⅡand 8 patiens with type Ⅲ according to Meyers-McKeever fractures classification;11 patients were gradeⅡand 7 patients were grade Ⅲ in back drawer test. Operation time, blood loss, and quality of immediate reduction were compared between two groups. Knee range of motion, knee back drawer test, and International Knee Documentation Committee(IKDC) grading, KT2000 stability evaluation and Lysholm function score of knee joint were compared at 6 months after operation. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for 8 to 16 months with an average of (12.3±1.9) months. There were no complications such as incision infection, fracture malunion or non-union, and internal fixation loosening occurred. The avulsion fractures of knee joint were reached to imaging healing standard at 6 months after operation. Operation time and blood loss in open reduction and internal fixation group were (56.4±7.1) min and (63.2±10.2) ml, while (89.9±7.4) min and (27.7±8.7) ml in arthroscopic fixation group, respectively, and had significant difference between two groups (P<0.05). There were no differences in immediate reduction quality (χ2=0.257, P=0.612), knee joint range of motion at 6 months after opertaion (t=0.492, P=0.626), knee joint rear drawer test ( χ2=0.320, P=0.572), IKDC classification of knee joint (χ2=0.127, P=0.938), KT2000 stability evaluation (χ2=0.070, P=0.791), and knee Lysholm function score (t=0.092, P=0.282) between two groups. CONCLUSION: Posterior medial approach with hollow anchoring system fixation and arthroscopic Endobutton with loop plate fixation for the treatment of posterior cruciate ligament tibial occlusion avulsion fracture could achieve satisfactory clinical results, and arthroscopic surgery has less bleeding, but also has a longer learning curve and longer operation time than traditional incision surgery. The surgeon needs to make a choice according to clinical situation of patient and their own surgical inclination.

Prevalence and related factors of depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS in Ningbo, China: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Depressive symptoms were common among HIV/AIDS patients. Previous studies had shown that HIV-infected patients were twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression as the general population. However, only few studies have explored the prevalence and related factors of depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS in China. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to study the prevalence of depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS from January to December 2021 through the database of HIV/AIDS antiretroviral therapy and psychological evaluation system in Ningbo, China. The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) was used to screen for depressive symptoms (PHQ-2 > 0), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to diagnose depressive symptoms, and multivariate Logistic regression model was carried on to evaluate the related factors. Results: A total of 3,939 HIV/AIDS patients were enrolled, and the age of initiation of antiretroviral therapy was 37.15 (IQR = 28.41-48.73) years. Among them, 3,230 (82.00%) were male, 3,844 (97.59%) were Han nationality, 1,391 (35.49%) were unmarried, 1,665 (42.27%) were homosexual transmission, and 2,194 (55.70%) were HIV-infected patients. There were 265 patients (6.73%) with depressive symptoms, and the proportion of mild, moderate, moderate and severe depressive symptoms was 4.01% (158/3939), 1.65% (65/3939), 0.76% (30/3939), and 0.30% (12/3939), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that married [odds ratio (OR) = 0.675, 95% CI = 0.501-0.908], divorced or widowed (OR = 0.571, 95% CI = 0.380-0.860), homosexual transmission (OR = 1.793, 95% CI = 1.349-2.396) were associated with depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS. Conclusion: The prevalence of depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS patients was 6.73% in Ningbo, China. More attention should be paid to the psychological status of unmarried and homosexual HIV/AIDS patients in Ningbo and timely psychological intervention or treatment should be given to those patients with depressive symptoms.

[Application of extended trochanter osteotomy wire fixation combined with autologous bone graft in revision of total hip arthroplasty].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical effect of using lengthened trochanteric osteotomy wire fixation combined with autologous bone graft in patients undergoing revision total hip arthroplasty. METHODS: From December 2010 to December 2018, 18 patients underwent revision of total hip arthroplasty with extended trochanteric osteotomy wire fixation and autogenous bone graft, including 8 males and 10 females with an average age of (78.89±3.32) years old ranging from 68 to 82 years. The time from the initial replacement to the revision was 9 to 22 (16.33±2.93) years. The patients were followed up regularly after operation. The healing time of osteotomy, the time of full weight-bearing activity, Harris score of hip joint and complications were recorded. RESULTS: All 18 patients were followed up for 16 to 38 months with an average of (25.78±6.65) months. The incision length was 16 to 21 cm with an average of (18.89±1.32) cm; the operation time was 105 to 128 min with an average of (115.44±6.59) min, the bleeding volume was 240 to 285 ml with an average of (267.44±13.77) ml. The healing time of osteotomy was 12 to 18 weeks with an average of (15.61±1.75) weeks. Harris score of hip joint was (47.11±5.04) before operation, (76.39±3.85) during full weight-bearing activities, and (82.22±2.76) at the final follow-up(P<0.05). During the follow-up period, there were no complications such as limb shortening, infection, poor incision healing, prosthesis loosening and sinking, and periprosthetic fracture. CONCLUSION: In revision total hip arthroplasty, the use of extended trochanteric osteotomy wire fixation combined with autologous bone graft can achieve satisfactory clinical results, but the surgeon needs to make a systematic plan for the pre-revision, intraoperative and postoperative recovery.

[Total hip arthroplasty for unstable intertrochanteric fractures with necrosis of the femoral head:a 7-year follow-up].

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the result and long time follow-up of unstable intertrochanteric fracture combined with avascular necrosis of femoral head treated by total hip arthroplasty. METHODS: From March 2008 to October 2014, 23 cases were enrolled and treated by total hip arthroplasty, including 10 males and 13 females, aged 59 to 82 years old with an average of(68.4±10.4) years old. There were 8 cases of type Ⅱa fractures, 6 cases of type Ⅱb fractures, 9 cases of type Ⅲ fractures according to Evans Classification. There were 3 cases of type Ⅱa, 3 cases of type Ⅱb, 9 cases of type Ⅲ, 8 cases type Ⅳaccording to Ficat Classification. The complications were recorded, the joint function was evaluated by Harris score and prosthesis survival rate was analysed. RESULTS: Postoperative complications occurred in 2 cases, one patient had acute periprosthetic infection 3 months after operation, and one patient had hip dislocation 3 months after operation. All 23 patients were followed up for 61 to 110 months with an agerage of (85.1±22.9) months. The Harris score at the final follow-up was 83 to 92 months with an average of(89.8±5.2) months, which was significantly different from that before operation (P<0.05). Imaging showed that all patients had bone healing of intertrochanteric fractures. The 7-year survival rate of prosthesis in 23 patients was 95.7%. CONCLUSION: The symptoms of unstable intertrochanteric fracture combined with avascular necrosis of femoral head could be solved by total hip arthroplasty, and the long time result was satisfied.

Estimating Costs of the HIV Comprehensive Intervention Using the Spectrum Model - China, 2015-2019.

Introduction: In order to facilitate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment and prevention, the resource needs for HIV national strategic planning in developing regions were estimated based on Spectrum, the universal HIV cost-effectiveness analysis software. Methods: Based on the theoretical framework of Spectrum, the study developed a cost measurement tool for HIV, and calculated the cost of HIV prevention and control in 6 sampled cities in China during 2015-2019 using the Spectrum model. Results: From 2015 to 2019, the average annual costs for HIV prevention and control for Shijiazhuang, Yantai, Ningbo, Zhenjiang, Foshan, and Wuxi cities were 46.78, 47.55, 137.49, 24.73, 74.37, and 58.30 million Chinese yuan (CNY), respectively. The per capita costs were 4.37, 6.73, 17.33, 7.77, 17.56, and 8.91 CNY, respectively. In terms of the cost structure, the ratio of preventive intervention funds to therapeutic intervention funds (antiviral treatment) varied in sampled cities. Discussion: Developing comprehensive and systematic HIV fund calculation methods can provide a research basis for rational resource allocation in the field of HIV.

Isolation and characterization of novel process-related impurities in empagliflozin.

Empagliflozin is an effective sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. During the manufacture of empagliflozin, three unknown impurities were discovered in pilot batches ranging from 0.05 % to 0.15 % by LC analysis. These unknown impurities were isolated from the crystallization mother liquor by column chromatography and semi-preparative LC, and their structures were elucidated by comprehensive analysis of HRMS, 1D-NMR (1H, 13C) and 2D-NMR (1H-1H COSY, HSQC, HMBC) spectroscopy data. The plausible mechanistic pathways to the formation of these three impurities were also discussed.

[Effect of double plate technique combined with autogenous iliac bone graft in the treatment of femoral nonunion after intramedullary nailing].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical effect of double plate combined with iliac bone graft in the treatment of femoral nonunion after intramedullary nailing. METHODS: From December 2008 to December 2017, double plate combined with autogenous iliac bone graft was used to treat femoral nonunion after intramedullary nailing. There were 11 cases, including 10 males and 1 female, aged 35 to 62 years, and the time from fracture to nonunion was 12 to 20 months. According to Judet classification, there were 8 cases of atrophic nonunion and 3 cases of proliferative nonunion. Regular follow-up was conducted after operation to record the fracture healing time, load-bearing activity time and complications, and to observe the repair effect of double plate fixation combined with iliac bone graft on nonunion after femoral shaft fracture operation. RESULTS: All patients were followed up for 12 to 22 months. The operation time was 70 to 130 min and the blood loss was 180 to 350 ml. After operation, 2 cases had knee stiffness, which recovered after passive exercise with CPM machine for 2 weeks;1 case had pain in iliac bone donor area, which was relieved after 3 months. The time of fracture healing was 24 to 40 weeks, and the time of complete weight-bearing activity was 14 to 32 weeks. SF-36 quality of life score at the final follow-up:body pain 70 to 82, activty 70 to 82, social function 72 to 83, the overall health 72 to 82. At the end of the follow-up, there were no complications such as limb shortening, infection, poor wound healing, internal fixation failure (fracture, loosening). CONCLUSION: It is an effective method to treat nonunion of femur after intramedullary nailing by using double plate combined with autogenous iliac bone graft.

[Value of quantitative CT in vertebroplasty for osteoporotic fracture combined with scoliosis].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the value of lumbar quantitative CT (QCT) in vertebroplasty for osteoporotic fracture combined with scoliosis. METHODS: The clinical data of 60 patients with osteoporotic fractures combined with different degrees of scoliosis treated by vertebroplasty from December 2017 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 18 males and 42 females, aged from 65 to 81 (72.63±3.34)years old. All patients were received QCT examination before surgery. According to the QCT value, the patients were divided into osteopenia group(QCT>80 g/L, 10 cases, 12 vertebrae), osteoporosis group(QCT 40-80 g/L, 35 cases, 48 vertebrae) and severe osteoporosis group(QCT<40 g/L, 15 cases, 22 vertebrae). The dispersion and leakage of bone cement in the injured vertebrae of patients with different degrees of QCT value were observed, and the QCT value in the selection of puncture point, correction of Cobb angle and recovery of vertebral height were analyzed in the patients. RESULTS: Among 60 cases of 82 vertebrae, 41 cases of 55 vertebrae were punctured by concave unilateral puncture, according for 67.07%. Among them, there were 2 cases with 2 vertebrae in osteopenia group, 26 cases with 35 vertebrae in osteoporosis group, and 13 cases with 18 vertebrae in severe osteoporosis group. There was significant difference in the number of cases with unilateral or bilateral puncture among the three groups (χ2=13.699, P=0.001); there was no significant difference in the number of cases with bone cement leakage among the three groups (χ2=1.403, P=0.496). The Cobb angle of scoliosis was significantly differentbetween preoperative and postoperative follow-up(P<0.05);the height of injured vertebral body was significantly different between preoperative and postoperative follow-up (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: For patients with osteoporotic fracture combined with scoliosis undergoing vertebroplasty, the severity of osteoporosis should be determined according to lumbar QCT detection, and the concave side of scoliosis should be selected for puncture, which is conducive to improving scoliosis, restoring spinal stability and improving surgical safety.

HIV Testing and Risks of Sexual Behavior among HIV-Negative Men Who Have Sex with Men in Ningbo, China.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing is confirmed as a preventive strategy for HIV control. However, the testing rate and risk behaviors of HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) remain unclear. We aimed to examine factors associated with HIV testing and high-risk behaviors among HIV-negative MSM. From July 2016 to June 2017, participants were recruited by snowball sampling from WeChat groups, bars, and other venues. HIV testing was performed to exclude HIV-positive MSM. Face-to-face questionnaires regarding HIV testing and high-risk behaviors were conducted; 988 MSM were included, and 57.1% of participants underwent HIV testing in the past year. The proportion of high-risk behaviors was 49.9%. Factors associated with HIV testing were bisexual orientation, substance use to adjust psychiatric disorders, and receiving acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) interventions. Being married, bisexual orientation, and receiving AIDS interventions were risk factors for high-risk sexual behaviors, while college or higher degree was a protective factor. We determined that HIV transmission factors are widespread, and the rate of HIV testing is relatively low. Attention should be given to marital status, using substances to adjust psychiatric disorders, or bisexual HIV-negative MSM, and AIDS interventions should be strengthened to promote HIV testing and reduce high-risk behaviors.

[Guiding significance of lumbar quantitative computed tomography in percutaneous vertebroplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the guiding significance of lumbar quantitative computed tomography (QCT) in percutaneous vertebroplasty (PKP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF). METHODS: The clinical data of 90 patients with OVCF underwent PKP from December 2017 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 24 femalesand66males, withanaverage agedof (74.47±6.60) yearsold. Allpatientswere received QCT examination before surgery, andaccording to the QCT value oflumbarspine, the patientswere dividedinto osteopenia decrease group (80 to 120 g/L, 17 cases, 30 vertebrae), osteoporosis group (40 to 80 g/L, 44 cases, 66 vertebrae) and severe osteoporosis group (<40 g/L, 29 cases, 39 vertebrae). Bone cement was injected into vertebral body, AP and lateral X-rays were done during operation. The diffusion and leakage of bone cement in injured vertebrae of patients with different QCT values were observed. Unilateral approach was used for patients whose bone cement diffused beyond the midline of the vertebral body, otherwise, and bilateral approach was adopted, and guiding significance of QCT in PKP for OVCF was analyzed. RESULTS: In 90 cases of 135 vertebrae, 72 cases of 98 vertebral bone cement diffused beyond the midline, accounting for 72.59%. Unilateral approach was used for the 72 patients whose bone cement diffused beyond the midline of the vertebral body, among them, there were 5 cases with 8 vertebrae in osteopenia group, 40 cases with 55 vertebrae in osteoporosis group and 27 cases with 35 vertebrae in severe osteoporosis group. There was significant difference in the bone cement dispersion between three groups (χ2=41.397, P=0.000). Moreover, no bone cement leakage occurred in osteopenia group, 3 cases of 4 vertebrae occurred in osteoporosis group and 2 cases of 3 vertebrae in severe osteoporosis group. However, none of the patients with bone cement leakage caused nerve injury and other symptoms, and there was no significant difference in bone cement leakage between the three groups (χ2=2.242, P=0.326). CONCLUSION: According to the QCT examination of lumbar spine, defining the degree of osteoporosis and guiding the puncture method can shorten the operation time, reduce the number of fluoroscopy, and effectively improve the safety of vertebroplasty.

[Medium-term efficacy of bio-lengthened stem arthroplasty in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures in elderly patients].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical effect of bio lengthened stem arthroplasty replacement in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the elderly. METHODS: From January 2015 to January 2018, 64 elderly patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures were analyzed retrospectively. According to the surgical treatment, patients were divided into arthroplasty replacement group (bio-lengthened stem arthroplasty replacement) and internal fixation group (PFNA). In the arthroplasty group, there were 34 cases, including 19 males and 15 females, with an average age of (81.32±3.81) years old. The Evans classification of fracture was type Ⅲ in 15 cases, type Ⅳ in 16 cases and type Ⅴ in 3 cases. In the internal fixation group, there were 30 cases, including 14 males and 16 females, with an average age of (79.90±3.61) years old. The Evans classification of fracture was type Ⅲ in 10 cases, type Ⅳ in 15 cases and type V in 5 cases. X ray and CT showed unstable intertrochanteric fracture of femur. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications were observed. Harris hip function score and SF-36 life quality score were used to evaluate the clinical effect. RESULTS: All the incisions healed in stage Ⅰ. All patients were followed up for 13 to 39 months with an average of 23.4 months. The operation time and bleeding volume of the patients in the arthroplasty replacement group were more than those in the internal fixation group (P<0.05). At the final follow-up, Harris function score of hip joint in the arthroplasty group was better than that in the internal fixation group (P< 0.05);SF-36 life quality score in the arthroplasty group was better than that in the internal fixation group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The treatmentof unstable intertrochanteric fractures with bio-lengthened stem arthroplasty replacement and internal fixation can achieve good clinical results, but with bio-lengthened stem arthroplasty replacement, the postoperative complications are less, the function of hip joint is better, and the life quality and satisfaction of patients are higher.