Endothelial dysfunction is the postulated link between coronary artery disease （CAD） and erectile dysfunction （ED）. Brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilatation （FMD） is a non-invasive surrogate marker for endot...Endothelial dysfunction is the postulated link between coronary artery disease （CAD） and erectile dysfunction （ED）. Brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilatation （FMD） is a non-invasive surrogate marker for endothelial function assessment. Despite Asian Indians representing a considerable global CAD burden, data on FMD and ED in these patients are lacking. Of the 225 patients undergoing coronary angiography, 72% had ED （assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function （IIEF-5） questionnaire）; ED was moderate to severe in 61% of the patients. ED patients had a higher incidence of severe and diffuse angiographic CAD, a greater number of coronary vessels involved and a lower mean brachial artery FMD （6.40%±4.60% vs. 9.10%±4.87%, P〈0.001） compared to non-ED patients. A progressive reduction in FMD was noted with increasing severity of ED. Impaired FMD （ ≤ 5.5%） was twice as common in ED patients （52% vs. 24% without ED）. Patients with impaired FMD had higher ED prevalence （85% vs. 62%） and lower mean I IEF-5 scores compared to those with normal FMD. Impaired FMD was a significant ED predictor independent of other risk factors （odds ratio, 2.33; 95% confidence interval： 0.59-9.23; P=0.03）. An inverse correlation between FMD and ED severity was observed （r=-0.22; P=0.004）. ED is common among Asian Indians with angiographically documented CAD. Patients with ED have impaired FMD independent of other risk factors, suggesting that endothelial dysfunction is the underlying pathophysiology. Urologists and cardiologists need to be aware of the association between ED, CAD and endothelial dysfunction.展开更多
AIM:To assess the predisposition for cardiovascular diseases among young Asian Indians by anthropometric data analysis.METHODS:One hundred and thirty males and 329 females aged between 15 and 26 years,attending health...AIM:To assess the predisposition for cardiovascular diseases among young Asian Indians by anthropometric data analysis.METHODS:One hundred and thirty males and 329 females aged between 15 and 26 years,attending health care check-ups at VIT University,were included in this study.Their body mass index,systolic and diastolic blood pressure,waist circumference,waist-to-hip ratio,pulse rate and pressure,along with mean arterial pressure,were measured and the data analyzed as per World Health Organization guidelines.RESULTS:Based on the analysis,54% of the male population was found to be predisposed to cardiovascular disease.Of these,approximately 40% were at highest possible risk,with greater than threshold values of body mass index,waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio.Females were found to have lower risk.Both genders showed significant correlation(P < 0.0001) between body mass index and waist circumference.Waist-to-hip ratio correlated significantly only in males with the former index whereas it correlated significantly with waist circumference in both genders.Receiver operating curve analysis,when performed,showed optimal sensitivity and specificity for body mass index and waist circumference.CONCLUSION:The above results indicate that seeds of cardiovascular disease may have been sown at a young age in Asian Indian populations.Interventional measures are advised to prevent accelerated atherosclerosis leading to premature cardiovascular disease.展开更多
The global burden of disease due to cardiovascular diseases(CVDs) is escalating,and the changing trends of CVD risk factors are identified among Indians experiencing rapid health transition.Contributory causes include...The global burden of disease due to cardiovascular diseases(CVDs) is escalating,and the changing trends of CVD risk factors are identified among Indians experiencing rapid health transition.Contributory causes include:growing population with demographic shifts and altered age profile,socio-economic factors,lifestyle changes due to urbanization.Indians are also having genetic predisposition to cardiovascular diseases and adult are susceptible to vascular disease linking possible gene-environment interactions influencing ethnic diversity.Altered diets with more of junk foods along with diminished physical activity are additive factors contributing to the acceleration of CVD epidemics,along with all form of tobacco use.The pace of health transition,however,varies across geographical regions from urban to rural population with consequent variations in the relative burdens of the dominant CVDs.A comprehensive public health response must be looked to plan over all strategies to integrate policies and programs that effectively impact on the multiple determinants of CVDs to provide protection over the life span through primordial,primary and secondary prevention.Populations as well as individuals at risk must be protected through initiatives,enable nutritionbased preventive strategies to protect and promote cardiovascular health.展开更多
AIM To examine the differences in metabolic risk factors(RFs) by gender in the Asian Indian(AI) population in the United States. METHODS Using cross-sectional data from 1038 randomly selected Asian Indians, we investi...AIM To examine the differences in metabolic risk factors(RFs) by gender in the Asian Indian(AI) population in the United States. METHODS Using cross-sectional data from 1038 randomly selected Asian Indians, we investigated the relationship between metabolic syndrome(Met S) RFs, cardiovascular disease,and diabetes. RESULTS A greater percent of women in this group had increased waist circumference and low high density lipoprotein(HDL) levels than men, but AI males had increased blood glucose, increased blood pressure, and increased triglycerides compared to females. Those individuals who met the Met S criteria had increased cardiovascular disease. One of the biggest single RFs for cardiovascular disease and diabetes reported in the literature for AIs is low HDL. CONCLUSION Our results show that lack of knowledge about diabetes, low physical activity, increased body mass index, and age were the factors most significantly correlated with low HDL in this population. Future studies and prospective trials are needed to further elucidate causes of the Met S and diabetes in AIs.展开更多
There have been controversies over differing opinions in the source of the American Indians. In this paper, the writer criticized the so-called classical theory that the remote ancestors of the American Indians entere...There have been controversies over differing opinions in the source of the American Indians. In this paper, the writer criticized the so-called classical theory that the remote ancestors of the American Indians entered America from Asia through the Bering Straits 14,000 ~ 20,000 years ago, worn their “clothes” and carried kindling during the late Paleolithic, no matter how by “boat” across the Bering Sea or by foot through a “Bering Land Bridge” which might once link up Asia and North America during glacial period;and independently proposed a new hypothesis that American Indians might be originated from the Western Rift Valley of North America. On the basis of locus distribution of American ancient human’s remnants, the writer pointed out that American ancient humans might be first originated at Yukon Territory of Canada within the Western Rift Valley of North America (the Basin & Range Province), and then migrated south ward (Yukon Territory → Mojave Desert → Mexico → Peru → Chile). Moreover, American Indians would have long been a presence for 40,000 years, or even 100,000 ~ 200,000 years in the American continents. So far, the logical basis which American Indians came from Asia 14,000 ~ 20,000 years ago was crushed, and derived two inferences: 1) American Indians might be originated from the Western Rift Valley of North America;2) Only the Eskimo might be the mover eastward from Asia, because of their gene B.展开更多
Background and Aims: Psychometric hepatic encephalop-athy score(PHES)is used widely for diagnosis of minimal hepatic encephalopathy(MHE).This prospective study aimed to determine the utility of the inhibitory control ...Background and Aims: Psychometric hepatic encephalop-athy score(PHES)is used widely for diagnosis of minimal hepatic encephalopathy(MHE).This prospective study aimed to determine the utility of the inhibitory control test(ICT)for the diagnosis of MHE.Additionally,the efficacy of rifaximin and lactulose for reversal of MHE was evaluated.Methods:A total of 180 eligible cirrhotic patients underwent testing for MHE.When PHES was ≤ ?5 and ICT lures were ≥ 14,MHE was diagnosed.The 108 patients with MHE were randomized to three groups for treatment with either lactulose,rifaximin,or placebo.Treatment outcomes were measured at the end of 3 months.Results: The 108 patients with MHE diagnosed by PHES and/or ICT accounted for 60%.The diagnosis of MHE was made by both ICT and PHES positivity in 56 patients,by abnormal ICT and normal PHES in 37 patients,and by abnor-mal PHES and normal ICT in 15 patients.For diagnosis of MHE,ICT had sensitivity of 78.87%,specificity of 66.06%with 60.22%positive predictive value and 82.76%negative predictive value.An area under the curve value of 0.724(95%CI: 0.653–0.788)was obtained for diagnosis of MHE.Reversal of MHE was seen in 71.42%,70.27%and 11.11%of patients in the rifaximin,lactulose and placebo arms(p < 0.001).Rifaximin showed better tolerability compared to lactulose.Conclusions: For the diagnosis of MHE,ICT is a simple tool but has lower sensitivity and better specificity than PHES.Rifaximin is as efficacious as lactulose in the treat-ment of MHE and better tolerated.展开更多
This study investigates the influence of major climatic modes on the interannual variability of the annual minimum extent of Antarctic sea ice.It shows that the Southern Annular Mode(SAM),the Indian Ocean Dipole(IOD),...This study investigates the influence of major climatic modes on the interannual variability of the annual minimum extent of Antarctic sea ice.It shows that the Southern Annular Mode(SAM),the Indian Ocean Dipole(IOD),and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO),along with the total sea ice condition during the preceding spring,serve as precursor signals of February sea ice extent(SIE).These climate modes interact,energizing the Pacific-South American pattern(PSA),which deepens and shifts the Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)westward in spring.This pattern generates a dipole sea ice anomaly characterized by an increase in sea ice in the northern Ross Sea but a decrease in ice in the Bellingshausen and northern Weddell Seas.However,as the season transitions into summer,the ASL exerts a pronounced delayed effect,contributing to widespread sea ice loss across West Antarctica.Strong southerly winds on the western flank of the ASL push sea ice away from the inner Ross Sea,exposing coastal waters that absorb solar radiation,thereby accelerating ice melt through positive ice-albedo feedback.Simultaneously,northwesterly winds on the eastern flank transport warm air toward the Bellingshausen and northern Weddell Seas,intensifying ice loss in these regions.Furthermore,the active PSA is accompanied by a tripole sea surface temperature pattern characterized by warming in the Weddell Sea,which promotes continued ice melt.The co-occurrence of an exceptionally positive SAM,a La Niña,and a strong negative IOD during spring 2022,combined with lower-than-normal total spring SIE,ultimately contributed to the record-low Antarctic SIE observed in February 2023.展开更多
From international student to professor,Tripathi Mani shares his thoughts on Chinese and Indian cultures and the beneficial exchanges between them.TRIPATHI Vivek Mani first learned about China from bedtime stories tol...From international student to professor,Tripathi Mani shares his thoughts on Chinese and Indian cultures and the beneficial exchanges between them.TRIPATHI Vivek Mani first learned about China from bedtime stories told by his father,a Sanskrit teacher in rural Bihar,a state in east India.Many of the stories were about the Chinese monk Xuanzang’s adventures during his long journey to India to find Buddhist scriptures.They kindled the young boy’s interest in China and the desire to visit it one day.展开更多
Indian Pilgrimage in China's Xizang to Resume This Summer Indian pilgrimage to Mount Gang Rinpoche and Lake Mapham Yutso in the Xizang Autonomous Region will resume this summer as agreed between the two countries,...Indian Pilgrimage in China's Xizang to Resume This Summer Indian pilgrimage to Mount Gang Rinpoche and Lake Mapham Yutso in the Xizang Autonomous Region will resume this summer as agreed between the two countries,according to China's Foreign Ministry.Mount Gang Rinpoche and Lake Mapham Yutso are the sacred mountain and lake for believers of several religions,including Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism,and thus the pilgrimage is an important part of the cultural and people-to-people exchange between China and India.展开更多
First Published:2020 ISBN:9781421438740 Published by John Hopkins Press https://www.press.jhu.edu“The geological imagination of India,its landscapes,people,past and destiny,drive the narrative of this book”,Pratik C...First Published:2020 ISBN:9781421438740 Published by John Hopkins Press https://www.press.jhu.edu“The geological imagination of India,its landscapes,people,past and destiny,drive the narrative of this book”,Pratik Chakrabarti writes in his introduction to Inscriptions of Nature.His ambitious work examines the development of the natural and anthropological sciences on the Indian subcontinent since the early 19th century,and the shaping of knowledge about Indian nature through the exploration of its deep past:an exploration that dug not only into the depths of the earth,but also into ancient history,texts,myths,legends,folklore and the genealogies of local populations.This in-depth study not only combines the history of geology,paleontology,anthropology and ethnography,it also finely analyzes the interactions between the theoretical framework of scientific knowledge imported from Europe and local history,mythologies and indigenous beliefs.展开更多
Extraterrestrial phenomena have influenced Earth’s processes throughout geological history.Evaluating the impact of extraterrestrial material on the environment is crucial for understanding the evolution of Earth and...Extraterrestrial phenomena have influenced Earth’s processes throughout geological history.Evaluating the impact of extraterrestrial material on the environment is crucial for understanding the evolution of Earth and life.This study incorporates the investigation of micrometeorites(MMs),abundant cosmic materials on Earth,to understand their influence on the chemical composition and biogeochemistry of the ocean.Comprehensive etching and flux analyses reveal that∼95%of cosmic spherules(CSs)entering seawater are etched or wholly dissolved,supplying nutrients to phytoplankton.Barred spherules show the highest degree of etching(∼19%),followed by porphyritic(∼17%),glass(∼15%),cryptocrystalline(∼12%),scoriaceous(∼10%),G-type(∼9%),and I-type(∼6%).Annually,∼3080 tonnes(t)of olivine from MMs dissolve into seawater,contributing∼495 t of Mg^(2+),∼1110 t of Fe^(2+),and∼1928 t of silicic acid.This signifies that over the Indian Ocean’s∼40 Myr history,∼23 Gt of olivine from CSs has dissolved,providing nutrients to seawater and sequestering∼7 Gt of CO_(2).The world ocean during this time has sequestered∼35 Gt of CO_(2),with fluctuations influenced by extraterrestrial activity.For instance,the Veritas event,lasting∼1.5 Myr,sequestered∼6 Gt of CO_(2)from the atmosphere.A robust flux calculation based on∼2 t of deep-sea sediments from 3610 MMs provides a more accurate estimate of the time-averaged flux of∼229 t yr^(−1).These comprehensive analyses reveal MM’s original characteristics,post-deposition processes,geological record and their overall impact on Earth’s marine environments,thereby contributing to our knowledge of the interconnection between terrestrial and extraterrestrial processes.展开更多
Tanzania is mainly subject to a bimodal rainfall pattern,characterized by two distinct seasons:the long rains,occurring from March to May,and the short rains,which typically take place from October to December(OND).Sh...Tanzania is mainly subject to a bimodal rainfall pattern,characterized by two distinct seasons:the long rains,occurring from March to May,and the short rains,which typically take place from October to December(OND).Short rains are usually less intense but still significantly influence local agriculture.Therefore,with station-based observations and reanalysis data,the current paper examines the interannual variability of OND precipitation in Tanzania from 1993 to 2022 and explores the possible impacts from El Niño–Southern Oscillation(ENSO)and the Indian Ocean Dipole(IOD)as well as the mechanisms.It is found that the Tanzania OND precipitation is above(below)normal in 1997,2006,2011,and 2019(1993,1998,2005,and 2016).The composite difference between wet(dry)years and the climatology indicates that the anomalous lower-level convergence(divergence)and upward(downward)motion are the critical circulation characters for above(below)precipitation.Further analysis indicates ENSO and the IOD are the two main oceanic systems modulating OND precipitation in Tanzania.El Niño and a positive IOD could induce easterly anomalies and weaken the Walker circulation over the Indian Ocean,consequently leading to lower-level convergence in water vapor flux,upward anomalies,and more than normal precipitation in Tanzania.In contrast,La Niña and a negative IOD produce opposite circulation anomalies and less than normal precipitation over Tanzania.Moreover,through partial correlation and Generalized Equilibrium Feedback Analysis,the individual contributions of ENSO and the IOD to circulation are investigated.It is found that although both the IOD and ENSO impact the Walker circulation,the feedback to the IOD is stronger than ENSO.These results provide critical insights into the oceanic drivers and their mechanistic pathways underlying precipitation anomalies in Tanzania.展开更多
El Niño is frequently followed by La Niña,while La Niña tends to sustain into the next year or even longer,exhibiting a notable phase transition asymmetry(TA)of El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO).T...El Niño is frequently followed by La Niña,while La Niña tends to sustain into the next year or even longer,exhibiting a notable phase transition asymmetry(TA)of El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO).This study explores the potential influences of tropical Indian Ocean(TIO)decadal variability on TA based on a comparative analysis of the relationship between the TIO sea surface temperature anomalies(SSTA)and ENSO during different periods.Generally,the TIO SSTA strengthened TA before the 1980s,corresponding to a highly positive relationship between the whole TIO SSTA and ENSO.However,the weakening effect was exhibited after the 1980s when the correlation diminished.After the late 1990s,ENSO was only positively correlated with western TIO,with the westerly exhibit of the SSTA center leading to smaller impacts on TA.Moreover,TIO SSTA tends to weaken TA by promoting the transition efficiency of La Niña,while bringing little effect on that of El Niño.Physically,compared to the mid-1970s,TIO SSTA triggered westerly wind anomalies during the autumn and winter of the La Niña development phase in the central equatorial Pacific in the late 1990s,which sped up the decay of La Niña.It then regenerated westerly anomalies in the following winter,facilitating the development of El Niño.This study quantifies the impact of the TIO SSTA on TA in seasonal signals and investigates the decadal variability of such influence,aiming to further understand phase transition asymmetry and offer valuable insights for the prediction of multi-year La Niña.展开更多
In the author list,the corresponding author indicator(*)was inadvertently omitted from HOU Zengqian’s name.This has now been corrected to:“HOU Zengqian¹,*”.The online version of this article was corrected.
Objective:Irrational medicine consumption practices increase the country's health expenditures and raise public health concerns,challenging sustainable development in multiple ways.The objective of this study is t...Objective:Irrational medicine consumption practices increase the country's health expenditures and raise public health concerns,challenging sustainable development in multiple ways.The objective of this study is to identify the key factors influencing irrational medicine consumption and devise a strategic framework to encourage responsible medicine use.Method:A cross-sectional qualitative descriptive design was used.Study data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis to identify the key factors contributing to irrational medicine consumption.Results:Various factors like cyberchondria coupled with health misinformation,inaccessible healthcare,limited product choices,misleading online pharmacies,and infeasible pharmaceutical regulations act as key drivers of irresponsible medicine consumption.The participants recommended enhancing healthcare access,utilizing technology,promoting health literacy,and updating regulations as strategies to improve responsible medicine use.Against this backdrop,the study proposes a double helix model for responsible consumption of medicines through bilateral efforts from both consumers and the health system.Conclusion:Highlighting the importance of responsible consumption,this paper calls health system actors to action to accelerate the efforts to foster responsible consumption of medicines.展开更多
This study investigated the impacts of Tibetan Plateau(TP) snow cover extent(SCE) on the interannual variation in spring precipitation over the Tarim Basin(SPTB) for the period 1980–2019. Significant anomalies in wes...This study investigated the impacts of Tibetan Plateau(TP) snow cover extent(SCE) on the interannual variation in spring precipitation over the Tarim Basin(SPTB) for the period 1980–2019. Significant anomalies in westerly winds,associated with a low-pressure anomaly in the northern Tarim Basin and a high-pressure anomaly in the southwestern basin, enhance moisture conveyance from upstream areas to the inland, thereby promoting increased SPTB. The analysis shows that anomalous snow over the northwestern and central-western TP, persisting from winter to spring, has a close relationship with SPTB variation. A localized energy budget analysis reveals that increased winter TP snow induces a cooling effect on the overlying atmosphere, resulting in an abnormal low-pressure system prevailing over the troposphere above the western TP. This anomalous low-pressure system can persist into the subsequent spring facilitated by the local snow–atmosphere feedback effects and energy conversion from the background flow. This persistence is accompanied by upward motion and moisture convergence, ultimately enhancing the SPTB. Further analysis indicates that anomalous warming in the Indian Ocean sea surface temperature(SST) during winter intensifies the subtropical high, facilitating the uplift and transport of warm moisture from lower latitude oceans to middle latitudes, thereby contributing to the increased TP snow and SPTB. Importantly, the impact of TP snow on SPTB is primarily independent of anomalous Indian Ocean SST in the northern Tarim Basin. This study elucidates a complex mechanism of ocean–land–atmosphere interaction,enhancing our understanding of SPTB variation and highlighting the significant role of TP snow in this process.展开更多
The current investigation focuses on intertwined relationships of ecology and aquaculture for the benefit of farmers involved in fish farming practices.The study evaluated glucosinolate reduction in black,brown,and wh...The current investigation focuses on intertwined relationships of ecology and aquaculture for the benefit of farmers involved in fish farming practices.The study evaluated glucosinolate reduction in black,brown,and white mustard meals as fish feed ingredients for Indian Major Carps.Fish were fed with 10%mustard meal-supplemented diets in three forms:Raw(R),Anti-nutritional Rich(AR),and Anti-nutritional Lowered(AL),alongside a control group using floating feed.The three-month indoor experiment(September-November 2023)was conducted in FRP tanks with triplicate treatments.Blood analysis revealed compromised health in AR-fed carps,with reduced hemoglobin levels in rohu,catla and mrigal and elevated total leukocyte counts indicating inflammation in all the three carps studied here.Liver function was impaired in AR-fed fish,shown by increased alanine transaminase levels,highest in rohu followed by mrigal and catla.Histopathological examination of AR-fed carps liver tissue revealed necrotic spots,deformed hepatocytes,and significant vacuolation.In contrast,AL-fed fish demonstrated improved health parameters through Complete Blood Count analysis,liver function tests,and histo-pathological observations,suggesting successful reduction of anti-nutritional factors in the processed mustard meals.In near future,replacement of unprocessed seed meal with processed seed meal will lead to economic gains in fish farming.展开更多
Based on the high-and low-resolution Community Earth System Model, version 1(CESM1), and corresponding simulations from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project(CMIP6), we compare the interannual variabili...Based on the high-and low-resolution Community Earth System Model, version 1(CESM1), and corresponding simulations from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project(CMIP6), we compare the interannual variability of the East Asian summer monsoon(EASM). The EASM interannual variability is characterized by the anomalous western North Pacific anticyclone(WNPAC) circulation and the dipole rainfall pattern with a negative southern lobe over the western North Pacific and a positive northern lobe along the Meiyu–Baiu region, which is better reproduced by the highresolution models. The reason for the improvement in the high-resolution models has been attributed to the better simulation of the warm temperature advection from the wind anomalies on the climatological temperature gradient. Positive sea surface temperature(SST) anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean are the key to the improved wind anomalies featuring a WNPAC in the high-resolution models. The warm SST anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean strengthen the WNPAC by triggering a Kelvin-wave response to the enhanced heat release induced by the increased precipitation. Based on the mixed-layer heat budget analysis, the warm SST anomalies over the western Indian Ocean in the high-resolution CESM1 are tied to the anomalous easterly wind along the equator, which reduces surface evaporation and upwelling.Therefore, the better simulations of air–sea feedback and the oceanic mesoscale eddy over the western Indian Ocean are the key for the improved simulation of the EASM interannual variations in the high-resolution CESM1.展开更多
The present study of metabasalts was carried out to understand the mantle source and geodynamic setting of the Mahakoshal Group in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone.In this study,we present detailed field,petrography,a...The present study of metabasalts was carried out to understand the mantle source and geodynamic setting of the Mahakoshal Group in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone.In this study,we present detailed field,petrography,and whole rock geochemistry of the Mahakoshal metabasalts.The Mahakoshal metabasalts are sub-alkaline in nature and belong to the tholeiitic series of rocks.The variation in rareearth element patterns of metabasalts indicates the different degrees of partial melting at shallow as well as deeper depths.Further,Eu/Eu*varies from 0.8 to 1.1(except sample KP-144=0.3),Ce/Ce*varies from 0.97 to 1.05,showing no cerium anomaly,and Nb/Nb*ranges from 0.7 to 1.3(except KP-144=0.1).The magnesium number(Mg#)varies from 0.2 to 0.3,which is quite low,indicating the evolved nature of the metabasalts.The studied metabasalts show E-MORB to OIB-type affinities,which are placed in the trench-distal back-arc setting.The opening of the Mahakoshal Basin is due to retreating orogen in the accretionary orogen setting and is contemporaneous with the assembly of the Columbia Supercontinent(~2.1-1.8 Ga).Hence,field,petrographic,and geochemical signatures indicate that the Mahakoshal basin opened as a back-arc rift basin on the Bundelkhand Craton,and that metabasalts are derived from the mantle that underwent variable degrees of partial melting at different depths.展开更多
文摘Endothelial dysfunction is the postulated link between coronary artery disease （CAD） and erectile dysfunction （ED）. Brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilatation （FMD） is a non-invasive surrogate marker for endothelial function assessment. Despite Asian Indians representing a considerable global CAD burden, data on FMD and ED in these patients are lacking. Of the 225 patients undergoing coronary angiography, 72% had ED （assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function （IIEF-5） questionnaire）; ED was moderate to severe in 61% of the patients. ED patients had a higher incidence of severe and diffuse angiographic CAD, a greater number of coronary vessels involved and a lower mean brachial artery FMD （6.40%±4.60% vs. 9.10%±4.87%, P〈0.001） compared to non-ED patients. A progressive reduction in FMD was noted with increasing severity of ED. Impaired FMD （ ≤ 5.5%） was twice as common in ED patients （52% vs. 24% without ED）. Patients with impaired FMD had higher ED prevalence （85% vs. 62%） and lower mean I IEF-5 scores compared to those with normal FMD. Impaired FMD was a significant ED predictor independent of other risk factors （odds ratio, 2.33; 95% confidence interval： 0.59-9.23; P=0.03）. An inverse correlation between FMD and ED severity was observed （r=-0.22; P=0.004）. ED is common among Asian Indians with angiographically documented CAD. Patients with ED have impaired FMD independent of other risk factors, suggesting that endothelial dysfunction is the underlying pathophysiology. Urologists and cardiologists need to be aware of the association between ED, CAD and endothelial dysfunction.
文摘AIM:To assess the predisposition for cardiovascular diseases among young Asian Indians by anthropometric data analysis.METHODS:One hundred and thirty males and 329 females aged between 15 and 26 years,attending health care check-ups at VIT University,were included in this study.Their body mass index,systolic and diastolic blood pressure,waist circumference,waist-to-hip ratio,pulse rate and pressure,along with mean arterial pressure,were measured and the data analyzed as per World Health Organization guidelines.RESULTS:Based on the analysis,54% of the male population was found to be predisposed to cardiovascular disease.Of these,approximately 40% were at highest possible risk,with greater than threshold values of body mass index,waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio.Females were found to have lower risk.Both genders showed significant correlation(P < 0.0001) between body mass index and waist circumference.Waist-to-hip ratio correlated significantly only in males with the former index whereas it correlated significantly with waist circumference in both genders.Receiver operating curve analysis,when performed,showed optimal sensitivity and specificity for body mass index and waist circumference.CONCLUSION:The above results indicate that seeds of cardiovascular disease may have been sown at a young age in Asian Indian populations.Interventional measures are advised to prevent accelerated atherosclerosis leading to premature cardiovascular disease.
基金Supported by a grant from Confederation of Epidemiological Associations registered under Govt of Kerala(Grant number:30-956/2013 CEA)
文摘The global burden of disease due to cardiovascular diseases(CVDs) is escalating,and the changing trends of CVD risk factors are identified among Indians experiencing rapid health transition.Contributory causes include:growing population with demographic shifts and altered age profile,socio-economic factors,lifestyle changes due to urbanization.Indians are also having genetic predisposition to cardiovascular diseases and adult are susceptible to vascular disease linking possible gene-environment interactions influencing ethnic diversity.Altered diets with more of junk foods along with diminished physical activity are additive factors contributing to the acceleration of CVD epidemics,along with all form of tobacco use.The pace of health transition,however,varies across geographical regions from urban to rural population with consequent variations in the relative burdens of the dominant CVDs.A comprehensive public health response must be looked to plan over all strategies to integrate policies and programs that effectively impact on the multiple determinants of CVDs to provide protection over the life span through primordial,primary and secondary prevention.Populations as well as individuals at risk must be protected through initiatives,enable nutritionbased preventive strategies to protect and promote cardiovascular health.
文摘AIM To examine the differences in metabolic risk factors(RFs) by gender in the Asian Indian(AI) population in the United States. METHODS Using cross-sectional data from 1038 randomly selected Asian Indians, we investigated the relationship between metabolic syndrome(Met S) RFs, cardiovascular disease,and diabetes. RESULTS A greater percent of women in this group had increased waist circumference and low high density lipoprotein(HDL) levels than men, but AI males had increased blood glucose, increased blood pressure, and increased triglycerides compared to females. Those individuals who met the Met S criteria had increased cardiovascular disease. One of the biggest single RFs for cardiovascular disease and diabetes reported in the literature for AIs is low HDL. CONCLUSION Our results show that lack of knowledge about diabetes, low physical activity, increased body mass index, and age were the factors most significantly correlated with low HDL in this population. Future studies and prospective trials are needed to further elucidate causes of the Met S and diabetes in AIs.
文摘There have been controversies over differing opinions in the source of the American Indians. In this paper, the writer criticized the so-called classical theory that the remote ancestors of the American Indians entered America from Asia through the Bering Straits 14,000 ~ 20,000 years ago, worn their “clothes” and carried kindling during the late Paleolithic, no matter how by “boat” across the Bering Sea or by foot through a “Bering Land Bridge” which might once link up Asia and North America during glacial period;and independently proposed a new hypothesis that American Indians might be originated from the Western Rift Valley of North America. On the basis of locus distribution of American ancient human’s remnants, the writer pointed out that American ancient humans might be first originated at Yukon Territory of Canada within the Western Rift Valley of North America (the Basin & Range Province), and then migrated south ward (Yukon Territory → Mojave Desert → Mexico → Peru → Chile). Moreover, American Indians would have long been a presence for 40,000 years, or even 100,000 ~ 200,000 years in the American continents. So far, the logical basis which American Indians came from Asia 14,000 ~ 20,000 years ago was crushed, and derived two inferences: 1) American Indians might be originated from the Western Rift Valley of North America;2) Only the Eskimo might be the mover eastward from Asia, because of their gene B.
文摘Background and Aims: Psychometric hepatic encephalop-athy score(PHES)is used widely for diagnosis of minimal hepatic encephalopathy(MHE).This prospective study aimed to determine the utility of the inhibitory control test(ICT)for the diagnosis of MHE.Additionally,the efficacy of rifaximin and lactulose for reversal of MHE was evaluated.Methods:A total of 180 eligible cirrhotic patients underwent testing for MHE.When PHES was ≤ ?5 and ICT lures were ≥ 14,MHE was diagnosed.The 108 patients with MHE were randomized to three groups for treatment with either lactulose,rifaximin,or placebo.Treatment outcomes were measured at the end of 3 months.Results: The 108 patients with MHE diagnosed by PHES and/or ICT accounted for 60%.The diagnosis of MHE was made by both ICT and PHES positivity in 56 patients,by abnormal ICT and normal PHES in 37 patients,and by abnor-mal PHES and normal ICT in 15 patients.For diagnosis of MHE,ICT had sensitivity of 78.87%,specificity of 66.06%with 60.22%positive predictive value and 82.76%negative predictive value.An area under the curve value of 0.724(95%CI: 0.653–0.788)was obtained for diagnosis of MHE.Reversal of MHE was seen in 71.42%,70.27%and 11.11%of patients in the rifaximin,lactulose and placebo arms(p < 0.001).Rifaximin showed better tolerability compared to lactulose.Conclusions: For the diagnosis of MHE,ICT is a simple tool but has lower sensitivity and better specificity than PHES.Rifaximin is as efficacious as lactulose in the treat-ment of MHE and better tolerated.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.42288101 and 42375045)
文摘This study investigates the influence of major climatic modes on the interannual variability of the annual minimum extent of Antarctic sea ice.It shows that the Southern Annular Mode(SAM),the Indian Ocean Dipole(IOD),and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO),along with the total sea ice condition during the preceding spring,serve as precursor signals of February sea ice extent(SIE).These climate modes interact,energizing the Pacific-South American pattern(PSA),which deepens and shifts the Amundsen Sea Low(ASL)westward in spring.This pattern generates a dipole sea ice anomaly characterized by an increase in sea ice in the northern Ross Sea but a decrease in ice in the Bellingshausen and northern Weddell Seas.However,as the season transitions into summer,the ASL exerts a pronounced delayed effect,contributing to widespread sea ice loss across West Antarctica.Strong southerly winds on the western flank of the ASL push sea ice away from the inner Ross Sea,exposing coastal waters that absorb solar radiation,thereby accelerating ice melt through positive ice-albedo feedback.Simultaneously,northwesterly winds on the eastern flank transport warm air toward the Bellingshausen and northern Weddell Seas,intensifying ice loss in these regions.Furthermore,the active PSA is accompanied by a tripole sea surface temperature pattern characterized by warming in the Weddell Sea,which promotes continued ice melt.The co-occurrence of an exceptionally positive SAM,a La Niña,and a strong negative IOD during spring 2022,combined with lower-than-normal total spring SIE,ultimately contributed to the record-low Antarctic SIE observed in February 2023.
文摘From international student to professor,Tripathi Mani shares his thoughts on Chinese and Indian cultures and the beneficial exchanges between them.TRIPATHI Vivek Mani first learned about China from bedtime stories told by his father,a Sanskrit teacher in rural Bihar,a state in east India.Many of the stories were about the Chinese monk Xuanzang’s adventures during his long journey to India to find Buddhist scriptures.They kindled the young boy’s interest in China and the desire to visit it one day.
文摘Indian Pilgrimage in China's Xizang to Resume This Summer Indian pilgrimage to Mount Gang Rinpoche and Lake Mapham Yutso in the Xizang Autonomous Region will resume this summer as agreed between the two countries,according to China's Foreign Ministry.Mount Gang Rinpoche and Lake Mapham Yutso are the sacred mountain and lake for believers of several religions,including Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism,and thus the pilgrimage is an important part of the cultural and people-to-people exchange between China and India.
文摘First Published:2020 ISBN:9781421438740 Published by John Hopkins Press https://www.press.jhu.edu“The geological imagination of India,its landscapes,people,past and destiny,drive the narrative of this book”,Pratik Chakrabarti writes in his introduction to Inscriptions of Nature.His ambitious work examines the development of the natural and anthropological sciences on the Indian subcontinent since the early 19th century,and the shaping of knowledge about Indian nature through the exploration of its deep past:an exploration that dug not only into the depths of the earth,but also into ancient history,texts,myths,legends,folklore and the genealogies of local populations.This in-depth study not only combines the history of geology,paleontology,anthropology and ethnography,it also finely analyzes the interactions between the theoretical framework of scientific knowledge imported from Europe and local history,mythologies and indigenous beliefs.
基金ISRO-RESPOND GAP3332 and PMN-MOES GAP2175 Project support this work.NIO-PMN and MOES-NCPOR supported the deep-sea and Antarctica micrometeorite collections,respectively.
文摘Extraterrestrial phenomena have influenced Earth’s processes throughout geological history.Evaluating the impact of extraterrestrial material on the environment is crucial for understanding the evolution of Earth and life.This study incorporates the investigation of micrometeorites(MMs),abundant cosmic materials on Earth,to understand their influence on the chemical composition and biogeochemistry of the ocean.Comprehensive etching and flux analyses reveal that∼95%of cosmic spherules(CSs)entering seawater are etched or wholly dissolved,supplying nutrients to phytoplankton.Barred spherules show the highest degree of etching(∼19%),followed by porphyritic(∼17%),glass(∼15%),cryptocrystalline(∼12%),scoriaceous(∼10%),G-type(∼9%),and I-type(∼6%).Annually,∼3080 tonnes(t)of olivine from MMs dissolve into seawater,contributing∼495 t of Mg^(2+),∼1110 t of Fe^(2+),and∼1928 t of silicic acid.This signifies that over the Indian Ocean’s∼40 Myr history,∼23 Gt of olivine from CSs has dissolved,providing nutrients to seawater and sequestering∼7 Gt of CO_(2).The world ocean during this time has sequestered∼35 Gt of CO_(2),with fluctuations influenced by extraterrestrial activity.For instance,the Veritas event,lasting∼1.5 Myr,sequestered∼6 Gt of CO_(2)from the atmosphere.A robust flux calculation based on∼2 t of deep-sea sediments from 3610 MMs provides a more accurate estimate of the time-averaged flux of∼229 t yr^(−1).These comprehensive analyses reveal MM’s original characteristics,post-deposition processes,geological record and their overall impact on Earth’s marine environments,thereby contributing to our knowledge of the interconnection between terrestrial and extraterrestrial processes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China[grant numbers 42105030 and 42105066]the Ministry of Commerce,People’s Republic of China.
文摘Tanzania is mainly subject to a bimodal rainfall pattern,characterized by two distinct seasons:the long rains,occurring from March to May,and the short rains,which typically take place from October to December(OND).Short rains are usually less intense but still significantly influence local agriculture.Therefore,with station-based observations and reanalysis data,the current paper examines the interannual variability of OND precipitation in Tanzania from 1993 to 2022 and explores the possible impacts from El Niño–Southern Oscillation(ENSO)and the Indian Ocean Dipole(IOD)as well as the mechanisms.It is found that the Tanzania OND precipitation is above(below)normal in 1997,2006,2011,and 2019(1993,1998,2005,and 2016).The composite difference between wet(dry)years and the climatology indicates that the anomalous lower-level convergence(divergence)and upward(downward)motion are the critical circulation characters for above(below)precipitation.Further analysis indicates ENSO and the IOD are the two main oceanic systems modulating OND precipitation in Tanzania.El Niño and a positive IOD could induce easterly anomalies and weaken the Walker circulation over the Indian Ocean,consequently leading to lower-level convergence in water vapor flux,upward anomalies,and more than normal precipitation in Tanzania.In contrast,La Niña and a negative IOD produce opposite circulation anomalies and less than normal precipitation over Tanzania.Moreover,through partial correlation and Generalized Equilibrium Feedback Analysis,the individual contributions of ENSO and the IOD to circulation are investigated.It is found that although both the IOD and ENSO impact the Walker circulation,the feedback to the IOD is stronger than ENSO.These results provide critical insights into the oceanic drivers and their mechanistic pathways underlying precipitation anomalies in Tanzania.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(42288101,42192564)Project of Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China(2020YFA0608802)Guangdong Major Project of Basic and Applied Basic Research(2020B0301030004)。
文摘El Niño is frequently followed by La Niña,while La Niña tends to sustain into the next year or even longer,exhibiting a notable phase transition asymmetry(TA)of El Niño-Southern Oscillation(ENSO).This study explores the potential influences of tropical Indian Ocean(TIO)decadal variability on TA based on a comparative analysis of the relationship between the TIO sea surface temperature anomalies(SSTA)and ENSO during different periods.Generally,the TIO SSTA strengthened TA before the 1980s,corresponding to a highly positive relationship between the whole TIO SSTA and ENSO.However,the weakening effect was exhibited after the 1980s when the correlation diminished.After the late 1990s,ENSO was only positively correlated with western TIO,with the westerly exhibit of the SSTA center leading to smaller impacts on TA.Moreover,TIO SSTA tends to weaken TA by promoting the transition efficiency of La Niña,while bringing little effect on that of El Niño.Physically,compared to the mid-1970s,TIO SSTA triggered westerly wind anomalies during the autumn and winter of the La Niña development phase in the central equatorial Pacific in the late 1990s,which sped up the decay of La Niña.It then regenerated westerly anomalies in the following winter,facilitating the development of El Niño.This study quantifies the impact of the TIO SSTA on TA in seasonal signals and investigates the decadal variability of such influence,aiming to further understand phase transition asymmetry and offer valuable insights for the prediction of multi-year La Niña.
文摘In the author list,the corresponding author indicator(*)was inadvertently omitted from HOU Zengqian’s name.This has now been corrected to:“HOU Zengqian¹,*”.The online version of this article was corrected.
文摘Objective:Irrational medicine consumption practices increase the country's health expenditures and raise public health concerns,challenging sustainable development in multiple ways.The objective of this study is to identify the key factors influencing irrational medicine consumption and devise a strategic framework to encourage responsible medicine use.Method:A cross-sectional qualitative descriptive design was used.Study data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis to identify the key factors contributing to irrational medicine consumption.Results:Various factors like cyberchondria coupled with health misinformation,inaccessible healthcare,limited product choices,misleading online pharmacies,and infeasible pharmaceutical regulations act as key drivers of irresponsible medicine consumption.The participants recommended enhancing healthcare access,utilizing technology,promoting health literacy,and updating regulations as strategies to improve responsible medicine use.Against this backdrop,the study proposes a double helix model for responsible consumption of medicines through bilateral efforts from both consumers and the health system.Conclusion:Highlighting the importance of responsible consumption,this paper calls health system actors to action to accelerate the efforts to foster responsible consumption of medicines.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No.42275031)Natural Science Foundation of Yunnan Province (Grant No.202302AN360006)。
文摘This study investigated the impacts of Tibetan Plateau(TP) snow cover extent(SCE) on the interannual variation in spring precipitation over the Tarim Basin(SPTB) for the period 1980–2019. Significant anomalies in westerly winds,associated with a low-pressure anomaly in the northern Tarim Basin and a high-pressure anomaly in the southwestern basin, enhance moisture conveyance from upstream areas to the inland, thereby promoting increased SPTB. The analysis shows that anomalous snow over the northwestern and central-western TP, persisting from winter to spring, has a close relationship with SPTB variation. A localized energy budget analysis reveals that increased winter TP snow induces a cooling effect on the overlying atmosphere, resulting in an abnormal low-pressure system prevailing over the troposphere above the western TP. This anomalous low-pressure system can persist into the subsequent spring facilitated by the local snow–atmosphere feedback effects and energy conversion from the background flow. This persistence is accompanied by upward motion and moisture convergence, ultimately enhancing the SPTB. Further analysis indicates that anomalous warming in the Indian Ocean sea surface temperature(SST) during winter intensifies the subtropical high, facilitating the uplift and transport of warm moisture from lower latitude oceans to middle latitudes, thereby contributing to the increased TP snow and SPTB. Importantly, the impact of TP snow on SPTB is primarily independent of anomalous Indian Ocean SST in the northern Tarim Basin. This study elucidates a complex mechanism of ocean–land–atmosphere interaction,enhancing our understanding of SPTB variation and highlighting the significant role of TP snow in this process.
文摘The current investigation focuses on intertwined relationships of ecology and aquaculture for the benefit of farmers involved in fish farming practices.The study evaluated glucosinolate reduction in black,brown,and white mustard meals as fish feed ingredients for Indian Major Carps.Fish were fed with 10%mustard meal-supplemented diets in three forms:Raw(R),Anti-nutritional Rich(AR),and Anti-nutritional Lowered(AL),alongside a control group using floating feed.The three-month indoor experiment(September-November 2023)was conducted in FRP tanks with triplicate treatments.Blood analysis revealed compromised health in AR-fed carps,with reduced hemoglobin levels in rohu,catla and mrigal and elevated total leukocyte counts indicating inflammation in all the three carps studied here.Liver function was impaired in AR-fed fish,shown by increased alanine transaminase levels,highest in rohu followed by mrigal and catla.Histopathological examination of AR-fed carps liver tissue revealed necrotic spots,deformed hepatocytes,and significant vacuolation.In contrast,AL-fed fish demonstrated improved health parameters through Complete Blood Count analysis,liver function tests,and histo-pathological observations,suggesting successful reduction of anti-nutritional factors in the processed mustard meals.In near future,replacement of unprocessed seed meal with processed seed meal will lead to economic gains in fish farming.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant Nos.42275018 (L.D.) and 42175029 (F.S.)]the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Fund for Excellent Young Scientists Fund Program (Overseas) [Grant No.2022HWYQ-065 (L.D.)]+3 种基金the Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province [Grant No.tsqn202211068 (L.D.)]the Fund of Laoshan Laboratory [Grant Nos.LSKJ202202602 (L.D.) and LSKJ202202201 (F.S.)]financially supported by Laoshan Laboratory (Grant No.LSKJ202300302)supported by the Office of Science, U.S.Department of Energy (DOE) Biological and Environmental Research through the Water Cycle and Climate Extremes Modeling (WACCEM) scientific focus area funded by the Regional and Global Model Analysis program area。
文摘Based on the high-and low-resolution Community Earth System Model, version 1(CESM1), and corresponding simulations from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project(CMIP6), we compare the interannual variability of the East Asian summer monsoon(EASM). The EASM interannual variability is characterized by the anomalous western North Pacific anticyclone(WNPAC) circulation and the dipole rainfall pattern with a negative southern lobe over the western North Pacific and a positive northern lobe along the Meiyu–Baiu region, which is better reproduced by the highresolution models. The reason for the improvement in the high-resolution models has been attributed to the better simulation of the warm temperature advection from the wind anomalies on the climatological temperature gradient. Positive sea surface temperature(SST) anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean are the key to the improved wind anomalies featuring a WNPAC in the high-resolution models. The warm SST anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean strengthen the WNPAC by triggering a Kelvin-wave response to the enhanced heat release induced by the increased precipitation. Based on the mixed-layer heat budget analysis, the warm SST anomalies over the western Indian Ocean in the high-resolution CESM1 are tied to the anomalous easterly wind along the equator, which reduces surface evaporation and upwelling.Therefore, the better simulations of air–sea feedback and the oceanic mesoscale eddy over the western Indian Ocean are the key for the improved simulation of the EASM interannual variations in the high-resolution CESM1.
文摘The present study of metabasalts was carried out to understand the mantle source and geodynamic setting of the Mahakoshal Group in the Central Indian Tectonic Zone.In this study,we present detailed field,petrography,and whole rock geochemistry of the Mahakoshal metabasalts.The Mahakoshal metabasalts are sub-alkaline in nature and belong to the tholeiitic series of rocks.The variation in rareearth element patterns of metabasalts indicates the different degrees of partial melting at shallow as well as deeper depths.Further,Eu/Eu*varies from 0.8 to 1.1(except sample KP-144=0.3),Ce/Ce*varies from 0.97 to 1.05,showing no cerium anomaly,and Nb/Nb*ranges from 0.7 to 1.3(except KP-144=0.1).The magnesium number(Mg#)varies from 0.2 to 0.3,which is quite low,indicating the evolved nature of the metabasalts.The studied metabasalts show E-MORB to OIB-type affinities,which are placed in the trench-distal back-arc setting.The opening of the Mahakoshal Basin is due to retreating orogen in the accretionary orogen setting and is contemporaneous with the assembly of the Columbia Supercontinent(~2.1-1.8 Ga).Hence,field,petrographic,and geochemical signatures indicate that the Mahakoshal basin opened as a back-arc rift basin on the Bundelkhand Craton,and that metabasalts are derived from the mantle that underwent variable degrees of partial melting at different depths.
