Breast Arterial Calcification(BAC)is a mammographic decision dissimilar to cancer and commonly observed in elderly women.Thus identifying BAC could provide an expense,and be inaccurate.Recently Deep Learning(DL)method...Breast Arterial Calcification(BAC)is a mammographic decision dissimilar to cancer and commonly observed in elderly women.Thus identifying BAC could provide an expense,and be inaccurate.Recently Deep Learning(DL)methods have been introduced for automatic BAC detection and quantification with increased accuracy.Previously,classification with deep learning had reached higher efficiency,but designing the structure of DL proved to be an extremely challenging task due to overfitting models.It also is not able to capture the patterns and irregularities presented in the images.To solve the overfitting problem,an optimal feature set has been formed by Enhanced Wolf Pack Algorithm(EWPA),and their irregularities are identified by Dense-kUNet segmentation.In this paper,Dense-kUNet for segmentation and optimal feature has been introduced for classification(severe,mild,light)that integrates DenseUNet and kU-Net.Longer bound links exist among adjacent modules,allowing relatively rough data to be sent to the following component and assisting the system in finding higher qualities.The major contribution of the work is to design the best features selected by Enhanced Wolf Pack Algorithm(EWPA),and Modified Support Vector Machine(MSVM)based learning for classification.k-Dense-UNet is introduced which combines the procedure of Dense-UNet and kU-Net for image segmentation.Longer bound associations occur among nearby sections,allowing relatively granular data to be sent to the next subsystem and benefiting the system in recognizing smaller characteristics.The proposed techniques and the performance are tested using several types of analysis techniques 826 filled digitized mammography.The proposed method achieved the highest precision,recall,F-measure,and accuracy of 84.4333%,84.5333%,84.4833%,and 86.8667%when compared to other methods on the Digital Database for Screening Mammography(DDSM).展开更多
This retrospective cohort study from a single clinical practice enrolled patients with evidence of calcified Peyronie＇s disease （PD） plaques detected on penile ultrasound at the time of initial presentation. The pr...This retrospective cohort study from a single clinical practice enrolled patients with evidence of calcified Peyronie＇s disease （PD） plaques detected on penile ultrasound at the time of initial presentation. The primary objective was to describe the effect of pentoxifylline （PTX） treatment on subtunical calcifications in men with PD. A PD-specific questionnaire was administered and sonographic evaluations were performed at baseline and follow-up visits. Descriptive statistics and X2 analysis were used to characterize the effect of PTX on calcified tunical plaques. In all, 71 men （mean age： 51.9 years） with PD and sonographic evidence of calcification were identified. Of them, 62 of these men were treated with PTX for a mean duration of I year, and nine with vitamin E or no treatment. Improvement or stabilization in calcium burden at follow-up was noted in 57 （91.9%） of men treated with PTX versus four （44,4%） of those not treated with PTX （P〈0.001）. PTX users were much less likely to have a subjective worsening of their clinical condition （25.0% versus 78.3%, P=0.002）. Treatment with PTX appeared to stabilize or reduce calcium content in PD plaques. A randomized controlled trial is warranted to further explore this effect.展开更多
The authors report herein a series of 3 patients with caseous mitral annular calcifications (MAC). One of the patients presented with mass-like, caseous MAC as an incidental finding on a staging computed tomography (C...The authors report herein a series of 3 patients with caseous mitral annular calcifications (MAC). One of the patients presented with mass-like, caseous MAC as an incidental finding on a staging computed tomography (CT) for metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Another patient presented with a nodule on a chest radiograph, which was later found on CT to be due to caseous MAC. In the third patient, caseous MAC was initially detected on echocardiography, and was further evaluated with CT and cardiac magnetic resonance imag-ing. In all three patients, the appearances posed a diagnostic dilemma. The appearance of caseous MAC is dissimilar to non-caseous MAC and is usually seen as an ovoid, mass-like structure, with homogeneous hyperattenuation, representing a liquefied form of calcium and proteinaceous fluid. This homogeneous center is surrounded by peripheral, shell-like calcifications. Caseous MAC is likely an under-recognized entity and may present a diagnostic dilemma at CT, magnetic resonance imaging, or echocardiography.展开更多
The purpose of the present study was to determine the association between presence and progression of Coronary Artery Calcifications (CAC) quantified with Agatston Score (AS) and inflammatory index as CRP and other pa...The purpose of the present study was to determine the association between presence and progression of Coronary Artery Calcifications (CAC) quantified with Agatston Score (AS) and inflammatory index as CRP and other parameters in unselected renal transplant recipients. Forty-five patients were underwent a baseline Multislice CT (MSCT) at the time of renal transplant and a repeat evaluation 12 - 16 months later. After second MSCT recipients were divided in three groups: Gr1 (26 patients) with absence of CAC at basal and second MSCT, Gr2 (11 patients) with reduction of CAC after one year and Gr3 (8 patients) with increased values of CAC after one year. Mean +/- Standard deviation of basal and after one year values of AS and CRP were respectively: Gr1: 2 +/-3;2 +/- 5 and 0.4 +/- 0.3;0.55 +/- 0.67;Gr2: 317 +/- 288;212 +/- 242 and 0.9 +/- 1.1;0.55 +/- 0.6;Gr3: 854 +/- 1168;1032 +/- 1153 and 0.8 +/- 0.8;1.1 +/-?0.96. We found capacity of renal transplantation to protect against development of new calcium deposits in recipients without CAC at time of transplantation. While we confirmed association in Gr2 between reduction of CAC with reduction of CRP levels and in Gr3 between increased levels of CRP with increasing of CAC. Conclusion: In this preliminary study, renal transplantation appears to slow down or increasing CAC, in strict association with modifications of CRP levels. Long term studies are needed to confirm our preliminary data and to determine the effects of CAC on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in renal transplant recipients.展开更多
AIM: To examine the correlation between the severity of venous calcifications and the clinical symptoms of phlebosclerotic colitis.METHODS: This was a retrospective study.The data,including the numbers of episodes of ...AIM: To examine the correlation between the severity of venous calcifications and the clinical symptoms of phlebosclerotic colitis.METHODS: This was a retrospective study.The data,including the numbers of episodes of active disease,were collected from the medical records at Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Wei Gong Memorial Hospital in Taiwan between January 2005 and December 2014.All computed tomography images with or without contrast enhancement were obtained using a multiple detector computed tomography scanner.The scanning range reached from the dome of the diaphragm to the pelvis.The severity of calcification at the tributaries of the portal vein was measured using a four-grade scoring system of the calcification of phlebosclerotic colitis.The episodes of active disease were defined as symptoms of fever,abdominal pain,severe constipation,bowel obstruction,vomiting or diarrhea based on a review of the medical records.Spearman's correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between the numbers of episodes of active disease and the severity of the calcification of the mesenteric veins.RESULTS: More than 3000 cases were reviewed from 2005 to 2014,and a total of 12 patients from Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Wei Gong Memorial Hospital were enrolled according to our inclusion criteria.Among these 12 patients,the mean age of the six males and the six females was 61.8 ± 11.5 years.All patients exhibited typical imaging characteristics,consisting of threadlike calcifications and colonic wall thickening in the standard radiographs and calcifications along the colonic and mesenteric vessels or associated with colonic wall thickening and adjacent fat stranding in the computed tomography images.The median score of the severity of the venous calcifications was 18 ± 13,and the median number of active disease episodes was 1 ± 1.75.Spearman's correlation analysis revealed that the number of episodes of active phlebosclerotic colitis disease significantly positively correlated with the severity of the calcification of the mesenteric veins(r = 0.619,P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: The extent of mesenteric venous calcification is strongly associated with the number of episodes of active disease among patients with phlebosclerotic colitis.展开更多
Prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications have a high incidence in elderly men. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic capabilities of susceptibility-weighted imaging in detecting prostate cancer and prostatic calc...Prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications have a high incidence in elderly men. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic capabilities of susceptibility-weighted imaging in detecting prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications. A total number of 156 men, including 34 with prostate cancer and 122 with benign prostate were enrolled in this study. Computed tomography, conventional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, and susceptibility-weighted imaging were performed on all the patients. One hundred and twelve prostatic calcifications were detected in 87 patients. The sensitivities and specificities of the conventional magnetic resonance imaging, apparent diffusion coefficient, and susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications were calculated. McNemar＇s Chi-square test was used to compare the differences in sensitivities and specificities between the techniques. The results showed that the sensitivity and specificity of susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostatic cancer were greater than that of conventional magnetic resonance imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient （P 〈 0.05）. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostatic calcifications were comparable to that of computed tomography and greater than that of conventional magnetic resonance imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient （P 〈 0.05）. Given the high incidence of susceptibility-weighted imaging （SWl） abnormality in prostate cancer, we conclude that susceptibility-weighted imaging is more sensitive and specific than conventional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, and computed tomography in detecting prostate cancer. Furthermore, susceptibility-weighted imaging can identify prostatic calcifications similar to computed tomography, and it is much better than conventional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging.展开更多
Calcification of the portal venous system is a rare entity that can be incidentally discovered during computed tomography (CT). We describe a case of extensive calcifications in the portal venous system in a middle-ag...Calcification of the portal venous system is a rare entity that can be incidentally discovered during computed tomography (CT). We describe a case of extensive calcifications in the portal venous system in a middle-aged male patient with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This patient presented with epigastric pain that had no obvious origin prior to admission. Laboratory examinations were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen and α-fetoprotein, and severe esophageal and gastric varices were detected during gastroscopy. Abdominal X-ray plain film showed well-defined linear and track-like calcification, with irregular margins directed along the course of the portal venous system. CT revealed extensive calcifications along the course of the portal, splenic, superior mesenteric and gastroesophageal veins. He underwent splenectomy 22 years ago due to splenomegaly and partial hepatectomy seven months before because of HCC of low-grade differentiation, confirmed by pathology. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with postoperative recurrent HCC and extensive portal venous system calcification after selective hepatic angiography under digital subtraction angiography.展开更多
Objective To retrospectively determine the features of stones and calcifications in hepatobiliary system on virtual nonenhanced (VNE) dual-energy computed tomography (CT), and to evaluate the possibility of VNE images...Objective To retrospectively determine the features of stones and calcifications in hepatobiliary system on virtual nonenhanced (VNE) dual-energy computed tomography (CT), and to evaluate the possibility of VNE images in diagnosis for those lesions. Methods A total of 128 gall stones and calcifications of the liver found in 110 patients were examined with triple phase abdominal CT scan from July 2007 to December 2011, in which true nonenhanced (TNE) phase and arterial phase were performed with single-energy CT (120 kVp) and portal venous phase was performed with dual-energy CT (100 kVp and 140 kVp). VNE images were generated from the portal venous phase dual-energy CT data sets by using commercially VNC software. The mean CT values for the stone, liver, bile and paraspinal muscle, mean lesion density and size in area dimension, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of lesion to the liver or bile, and image noise were assessed and compared between VNE and TNE images. The effective dose and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) were also calculated. Results The mean CT values of the lesions measured on VNE images declined significantly compared with those measured on TNE images (164.51±102.13vs. 290.72±197.80 HU,P<0.001), so did the lesion-to-liver CNR (10.80±11.82vs.18.81±17.06,P<0.001) and the lesion-to-bile CNR (17.24±14.41 vs. 21.32±17.31,P<0.001). There was no significant difference in size of lesions area between VNE and TNE images (0.69±0.88vs.0.72±0.85 cm2,P=0.062). Compared to the 128 lesions found in TNE images, VNE images showed the same density in 30 (23.4%) lesions, lighter density in 88 (68.8%) lesions, while failed to show 10 (7.8%) lesions, and showed the same size in 61 (47.7%) lesions and smaller size in 57 (44.5%) lesions. The CT cutoff values of lesion and size were 229.21 HU and 0.15 cm2, respectively. The total effective dose for triple phase scan protocol with TNE images was 19.51±7.03 mSv, and the SSDE was 39.84±11.10 mGy. The effective dose for dual phase scan protocol with VNE images instead of TNE images was 13.29±4.89 mSv, and the SSDE was 27.83±9.99 mGy. Compared with TNE images, the effective dose and SSDE of VNE images were down by 32.05%±3.69 % and 30.63%±2.34 %, respectively. Conclusions Although the CT values and CNR of the lesions decreased in VNE images, the lesions of which attenuation greater than 229.21 HU and size larger than 0.15 cm2could be detected with good reliability and obvious dose reduction. There was good consistency in the size of stones and calcifications in hepatobiliary system between VNE images and TNE images, which ensured the possibility of the clinical application of VNE images.展开更多
BACKGROUND Mucinous gastric carcinoma(MGC)is a rare histological type of gastric carcinoma.Calcifications,seen on imaging and histopathological preparations,and which are infrequent in other types of gastric carcinoma...BACKGROUND Mucinous gastric carcinoma(MGC)is a rare histological type of gastric carcinoma.Calcifications,seen on imaging and histopathological preparations,and which are infrequent in other types of gastric carcinoma,are characteristic of MGC.We present a patient with MGC with calcifications of the gastric wall and describe the computerized tomography(CT)features of the lesion and changes in the calcifications before and after chemotherapy.CASE SUMMARY A 61-year-old man was admitted to our hospital in May 2020 because of a large,tender abdominal mass.Abdominal CT showed diffuse,irregular thickening of the gastric walls,with miliary and punctate calcifications.There were metastases to the perigastric and retroperitoneal lymph nodes and also peritoneal seeding.Histological examination of a specimen obtained by endoscopic biopsy showed poorly differentiated calcified signet-ring cell gastric cancer.The patient was clinically staged with T4N+M1 disease.He was treated with docetaxel,cisplatin,and fluorouracil as first-line therapy,irinotecan combined with S-1 as second-line chemotherapy,and programmed cell death protein 1 as third-line therapy.The patient underwent a total of nine cycles of chemotherapy.Follow-up CT scans every 3 mo showed continually increasing calcifications.As of this writing,the patient has survived almost 1 year.CONCLUSION In this case report,we describe the histopathological and imaging characteristics of a patient with gastric cancer receiving chemotherapy.Multiple punctate calcifications were seen,which gradually increased during chemotherapy.Several possible mechanisms for the calcifications are described,but further research is needed.Future findings may lead to new approaches for the evaluation and treatment of such tumors.展开更多
Background and Objective: Epidemiological and clinical studies have shown that vascular calcification and arterial vascular stiffness are associated with all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in the general popu...Background and Objective: Epidemiological and clinical studies have shown that vascular calcification and arterial vascular stiffness are associated with all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in the general populations and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The objective of this study was the assessment of arterial stiffness and vascular calcification in ESRD patients in Sohag University Hospital. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 100 patients with ESRD (63 males and 37 females) were included. The patients were on regular hemodialysis (HD) for 65.18 ± 50.25 months. Arterial stiffness was measured by brachial pulse pressure (PP). A simple vascular calcification score (SVCS) based on plain radiographic films of pelvis and hands was used for assessment of vascular calcification. The patients undergoing clinical evaluation and serum calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were obtained. Results: PP > 70 mmHg was observed in 24 patients (24%) and vascular calcifications were detected in 50 patients (50%). SVCS ≥ 3 was observed in 36 patients (36%) and 10 patients (10%) had both SVCS ≥ 3 and PP > 70 mmHg. PP > 70 was significantly associated with presence of vascular disease (odds ratio;5, 95% CI = 1.56 - 16.01;P = 0.007). In multivariate analysis, PP > 70 was independently associated with elevated systolic blood pressure (odds ratio;1.34, 95% CI = 1.11 - 1.6;P = 0.002) and serum PTH (odds ratio;1.004, 95% CI = 1 - 1.008;P = 0.03). SVCS ≥ 3 was association with age (odds ratio;1.05, 95% CI = 1.02 - 1.09;P = 0.003) and presence of vascular disease (odds ratio;3.19, 95% CI = 1.3 - 7.85;P = 0.01). Elevated systolic blood pressure was independently associated with SVCS ≥ 3 (odds ratio;1.08, 95% CI = 1.03 - 1.14;P = 0.002). Conclusion: Arterial stiffness and vascular calcifications are common in patients with ESRD on regular hemodialysis. PP and SVCS are simple and inexpensive methods in assessment of vascular calcifications and arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients. PP and SVCS may provide important information that may guide the management of these patients.展开更多
Dear Editor,Sturge-Weber Syndrome(SWS)is a rare congenital neurocutaneous syndrome[1,2],with an estimated prevalence of 0.19 in 100,000 annually[3].It is a non-hereditary disease linked to a somatic mutation in the GN...Dear Editor,Sturge-Weber Syndrome(SWS)is a rare congenital neurocutaneous syndrome[1,2],with an estimated prevalence of 0.19 in 100,000 annually[3].It is a non-hereditary disease linked to a somatic mutation in the GNAQ,GNA11,or GNB2 gene[1],leading to vascular malformations in the cutaneous forehead,cerebral cortex,and eye[1,2].Notably,~70%of pediatric patients diagnosed with SWS exhibit brain calcification(BC)[4],though the prevalence of BC ranges from only 1%in young individuals to>20%in the senior population(>60 years old)[5].Similar to the elderly,BC in pediatric SWS patients is identified as vascular calcification[6,7],whereas BC in pediatric patients with tuberous sclerosis and tumors has been previously described as dystrophic calcification[6].展开更多
Background Hypertension is associated with an increased risk of calcific aortic valve stenosis(CAVS).However,the directionality of causation between blood pressure traits and aortic stenosis is unclear,as is the benef...Background Hypertension is associated with an increased risk of calcific aortic valve stenosis(CAVS).However,the directionality of causation between blood pressure traits and aortic stenosis is unclear,as is the benefit of antihypertensive drugs for CAVS.Methods Using genome-wide association studies(GWAS)summary statistics,we performed bidirectional two-sample univariable mendelian randomization(UVMR)to assess the causal associations of systolic blood pressure(SBP),diastolic blood pressure(DBP),and pulse pressure(PP)with CAVS.Multivariable mendelian randomization(MVMR)was conducted to evaluate the direct effect of hypertension on CAVS,adjusting for confounders.Drug target mendelian randomization(MR)and summary-level MR(SMR)were used to estimate the effects of 12 classes of antihypertensive drugs and their target genes on CAVS risk.Inverse variance weighting was the primary MR method,with sensitivity analyses to validate results.Results UVMR showed SBP,DBP,and PP have causal effects on CAVS,with no significant reverse causality.MVMR confirmed the causality between hypertension and CAVS after adjusting for confounders.Drug-target MR analyses indicated that calcium channel blockers(CCBs),loop diuretics,and thiazide diuretics via SBP lowering exerted protective effects on CAVS risk.SMR analysis showed that the CCBs target gene CACNA2D2 and ARBs target gene AGTR1 were positively associated with CAVS risk,while diuretics target genes SLC12A5 and SLC12A1 were negatively associated with aortic stenosis risk.Conclusions Hypertension has a causal relationship with CAVS.Managing SBP in hypertensive patients with CCBs may prevent CAVS.ARBs might exert protective effects on CAVS independent of blood pressure reduction.The relationship between diuretics and CAVS is complex,with opposite effects through different mechanisms.展开更多
Global coral reef ecosystems have been severely degraded due to the combined effects of climate change and human activities.Changes in the seawater carbonate system of coral reef ecosystems can reflect their status an...Global coral reef ecosystems have been severely degraded due to the combined effects of climate change and human activities.Changes in the seawater carbonate system of coral reef ecosystems can reflect their status and their responses to the impacts of climate change and human activities.Winter and summer surveys in 2019 found that the ecological community of the Luhuitou coral reef flat was dominated by macroalgae and corals,respectively,contrasting with the conditions 10 years ago.The Luhuitou fringing reefs were sources of atmospheric CO_(2) in both seasons.In winter,the daily variation range of dissolved inorganic carbon(DIC)in Luhuitou coral reefs was up to 450μmol/kg,while that of total alkalinity(TA)was only 68μmol/kg.This indicated that the organic production was significantly higher than the calcification process during this period.The TA/DIC was approximately 0.15,which was less than half of that in healthy coral reefs;hence,photosynthesis-respiration processes were the most important factors controlling daily changes in the seawater carbonate system.The net community production(NCP)of the Luhuitou coral reef ecosystem in winter was as high as 47.65 mmol C/(m^(2)·h).While the net community calcification(NCC)was approximately 3.35 and-4.15 mmol CaCO_(3)/(m^(2)·h)during the daytime and nighttime respectively.Therefore,the NCC for the entire day was-21.9 mmol CaCO_(3)/(m^(2)·d),indicating a net autotrophic dissolved state.In summer,the acidification was enhanced by thunderstorms and heavy rain with the highest seawater partial pressure of CO_(2)(p CO_(2))and lowest pH T.Over the past 10 years,the increase rate of seawater p CO_(2) in Luhuitou reef was approximately 13.3μatm/a***,six times that of the open ocean,while the decrease rate of pH was approximately 0.0083/a,being five times that of the global ocean.These findings underscore the importance of protecting and restoring Luhuitou fringing reef,as well as similar reefs worldwide.展开更多
Background:Aortic atherosclerosis increases the risk of embolic events under extracorporeal circulation(ECC).To evaluate the hemodynamic impact of ECC on atheromatous plaques,an atherosclerosis animal model,which is a...Background:Aortic atherosclerosis increases the risk of embolic events under extracorporeal circulation(ECC).To evaluate the hemodynamic impact of ECC on atheromatous plaques,an atherosclerosis animal model,which is also eligible for ECC,is required.Methods:Twenty-nine New Zealand White rabbits received a pro-atherosclerotic diet(group diet,n=10),a pro-atherosclerotic diet and additional intraaortic balloon insufflation injury(group BI,n=9),or served as controls(n=10).After 3 or 6 months,aortic explants were analyzed by(immuno-)histology and RT-PCR.Results:Blood serum analyses revealed increased cholesterol-levels in groups diet and BI compared to controls(3 months:p=0.03 each,6 months:p<0.0001 each).Aortic inflammatory infiltration was significantly enhanced in groups diet(CD3 at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.02;CD68 at 3 months:p=0.01)and BI(CD3 at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.03;CD68 at 3 months:p=0.04,6 months:p=0.02).Increased intima hyperplasia occurred in both groups(p<0.0001 each).Macroscopic analyses after 3 and 6 months showed ubiquitous lumen-narrowing aortic plaques.Calcification of the intima and media was increased in groups diet(intima:p<0.0001 at 3 and 6 months;media at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.01)and BI(intima:p<0.0001 at 3 and 6 months;media at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.02).Extensive lipid accumulation was found in the intima in both treatment groups(p<0.0001 each).Conclusions:A rabbit model with high aortic calcific plaque burden—diet-induced with no implicit need of an additional intimal injury by an intraaortic balloon insufflation due to comparable outcome—exhibiting multiple pathophysiological aspects of human atherosclerosis has been designed and thoroughly characterized.It is suitable for use in future studies on the interaction between atherosclerotic plaques and the arterial blood flow under ECC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Calciphylaxis,also called calcific uremic arteriolopathy,is characterized by microvascular calcification and occlusion,which is commonly seen in patients with end-stage renal disease(ESRD).Although several ...BACKGROUND Calciphylaxis,also called calcific uremic arteriolopathy,is characterized by microvascular calcification and occlusion,which is commonly seen in patients with end-stage renal disease(ESRD).Although several studies have demonstrated an association of calciphylaxis with ESRD,reports linking calciphylaxis to LT(LT)are scarce.This report presents a rare case of calciphylaxis in a patient who underwent LT,leading to microvascular occlusion and hyperbilirubinemia.A 34-year-old man presented with a 7-day history of jaundice and severe bilateral leg pain.The patient had undergone LT and was put on hemodialysis for one year due to calcineurin inhibitor-induced ESRD.Physical examination revealed jaundice,leathery skin changes,severe muscle pain in both legs,and penile induration.Laboratory tests identified elevated bilirubin levels,gamma-glutamyl-transferase,and alkaline phosphatase,while alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were within normal limits.Computed tomography(CT)revealed extensive calcifications in the subcutaneous tissue.Three-dimensional CT reconstruc-tion indicated significantly reduced blood flow in the hepatic artery,primarily in the small to medium-sized branches.Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography confirmed hepatic ischemia,with no enhancement seen in hepatic artery branches.Liver biopsy specimen revealed no signs of rejection.The patient decided to receive conservative treatment and succumbed to the illness after six months.CONCLUSION This case indicates that calciphylaxis should be suspected in patients who have undergone LT with ESRD presenting with hyperbilirubinemia and skin lesions.展开更多
Resource utilization of metallurgical solid waste is vital for the sustainable development of the steel industry in the context of“dual carbon.”The calcification-carbothermal reduction method was employed to extract...Resource utilization of metallurgical solid waste is vital for the sustainable development of the steel industry in the context of“dual carbon.”The calcification-carbothermal reduction method was employed to extract zinc and iron from electric furnace dust effectively.In this process,calcium oxide reacts with zinc ferrite to form dicalcium ferrite and zinc oxide,which further promotes the effective separation of zinc and iron.However,the addition of pure calcium oxide increases production costs for steel companies.Herein,a new process for dust removal and zinc recovery in electric furnaces has been developed,using electric furnace slag as a calcium agent and mineral trough ash as a reducing agent.Large amounts of dicalcium ferrate phases were detected in the carbothermal reduction products by steel slag synergistic calcification.The reaction mechanism was determined as ZnFe_(2)O_(4)+CaO→Ca_(2)Fe_(2)O_(5)+ZnO→Ca_(2)Fe_(2)O_(5)+Zn(g).Such a two-step reaction path indicated that steel slag can effectively promote the reduction and volatilization of zinc.The experimental optimal roasting parameters were determined as roasting temperature of 1150℃,roasting time of 45 min,calcium to zinc molar ratio of 1.1,and carbon to oxygen molar ratio of 0.8.The mass percentage of added steel slag was recorded as 21.83%,while that of mineral trough ash was 21.85%.Under these conditions,the zinc removal rate above 99%and the metallization rate of pellets of about 75.31%were achieved.Overall,the proposed method looks promising for future efficient separation of zinc and iron in industrial steel slag.展开更多
Vascular calcification is closely associated with cardiovascular-related mortality,particularly high-risk of occurring this disease is in patients suffering from hypertension.Vascular calcification involves the active...Vascular calcification is closely associated with cardiovascular-related mortality,particularly high-risk of occurring this disease is in patients suffering from hypertension.Vascular calcification involves the active deposition of calcium and other mineral substances in the vascular wall.In blood vessels,intimal calcification is related to atherosclerosis,whereas medial calcification is a non-occlusive process that increases vascular stiffness and reduces vascular compliance.In the valves,calcification of the leaflets can change the mechanical properties of the tissue and result in stenosis.Cardiovascular diseases are being lead significant health risk worldwide and its estimated 30%of deaths.Synthetic drugs can help in the treatment of cardiovascular disease but they have limited efficacy and carry substantial risks.High risk and narrow margin of safety of synthetic drugs growing our interest to explore the different plants with specific medicinal properties in treatment of different cardiovascular disorders including hypertension,atherosclerosis,cardiac arrest and heart failure.Plants like Daucus carota,Nerium oleander,Amaranthus,Terminalia arjuna,and Picrorhiza kurroa contain phytochemicals like tea flavonoids,polyphenols,plant sterols,and terpenoids that can prevent low density lipoprotein cholesterol oxidation,inhibit cholesterol synthesis and promote vasodilation.Researchers has identified many medicinal herbs and their chemical components that show potential in alleviating vascular calcification via antioxidant mechanisms.In this study,we briefly discuss the role of vascular calcification in the pathophysiology of cardiac diseases.Utilizing the efficacy of these natural molecules will lead to the development of new treatment methods for chronic heart disease associated with vascular calcification.展开更多
BACKGROUND Postmenopausal women face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease(CVD)due to estrogen withdrawal,which exacerbates traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidemia,glucose intolerance,and hy...BACKGROUND Postmenopausal women face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease(CVD)due to estrogen withdrawal,which exacerbates traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidemia,glucose intolerance,and hypertension.Coronary Artery Calcium Score(CACS),a well-established marker of subclinical atherosclerosis,has emerged as a key predictor of adverse cardiovascular events.Despite the recognized association between menopause and heightened CVD risk,there remains a paucity of literature exploring the specific role of menopause in influencing CACS and its implications for cardiovascular morbidity and morta lity.AIM To examine the interplay between menopause,CACS,and cardiovascular health by synthesizing existing literature.METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar,focusing on studies that analyzed CACS in postmenopausal women,including the influence of factors such as hormone therapy,Triglyceride-Glucose index,bone mineral density,lipid metabolism,and type-1 diabetes.Data extraction and synthesis emphasized key patterns,metabolic influences,and potential mechanisms driving coronary calcification in menopause.RESULTS Findings suggest that menopause contributes to increased CACS through multiple pathways,including altered lipid metabolism,insulin resistance,and arterial stiffness.Additionally,premature menopause is associated with higher CACS and elevated CVD risk.While hormone replacement therapy(HRT)appears to have a protective effect against coronary calcification,further research is needed to clarify its long-term benefits and risks.CONCLUSION We introduce a novel framework combining CACS with metabolic and hormonal markers,and discuss estrogendriven mechanisms and HRT considerations in postmenopausal cardiovascular risk.This review underscores the need for targeted cardiovascular risk assessment in postmenopausal women,integrating CACS with other metabolic markers to improve early detection and prevention of CVD in this high-risk population.展开更多
Background Coronary artery calcification(CAC),a hallmark of atherosclerosis,paradoxically associates with reduced cardiovascular risk under statin therapy despite accelerated calcification progression,prompting this s...Background Coronary artery calcification(CAC),a hallmark of atherosclerosis,paradoxically associates with reduced cardiovascular risk under statin therapy despite accelerated calcification progression,prompting this study to explore CAC metrics as potential mediators between statin use and major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE).Methods Clinical data of 246 hospitalized patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography(CCTA)at Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital from January 2023 to June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.Linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between statin use and CAC parameters.Multivariable Poisson regression models were applied to explore the associations of statin use and CAC parameters with MACE risk.A mediation analysis was performed to assess the role of CAC parameters in the statin-MACE relationship.Results Statin use was independently associated with increased calcification score(β=0.648,P<0.001),CAC volume(β=0.623,P<0.001),and calcified plaque proportion(β=0.606,P=0.002).Multivariable Poisson regression indicated that statin use significantly reduced MACE risk[incidence rate ratio(IRR):0.33,P=0.018],whereas calcification score(IRR:2.63,P=0.026)and CACvolume(IRR:2.66,P=0.044)were associated with elevated MACE risk;Calcified plaque proportion showed no significant association.Mediation analysis revealed that calcification score(β=0.035,P=0.021)and CAC volume(β=0.023,P=0.018)exerted masking effects,while calcified plaque proportion had no mediating role.Conclusions Calcification score and CACvolume demonstrated limited masking effects in the association between statin use and MACE.展开更多
A simplified CaO-V_(2)O_(5)-MnO_(2) system was established to qualitatively and quantitatively investigate the transformation behavior of vanadates.The results demonstrated dynamic transformations between calcium vana...A simplified CaO-V_(2)O_(5)-MnO_(2) system was established to qualitatively and quantitatively investigate the transformation behavior of vanadates.The results demonstrated dynamic transformations between calcium vanadate and manganese vanadate as n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))ratios and roasting temperatures varied.When MnO_(2) was incrementally added with n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))of 2,some Ca_(2)V_(2)O_(7) converted to Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7).The mass of vanadium as calcium vanadate consistently exceeded that as manganese vanadate.Conversely,when CaO was gradually added with n(MnO_(2))/n(V_(2)O_(5))of 2,Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7) tended to transform into Ca_(2)V_(2)O_(7) and Ca3V2O8.The affinity of vanadium for calcium was higher compared that of vanadium for manganese.The specific type of calcium vanadate formed depended on both n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))values and roasting temperatures,while manganese vanadate remained predominantly as Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7).The influence of roasting temperature on the conversion between calcium vanadate and manganese vanadate was minimal.At n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))of 2/1/2 and temperatures ranging from 650 to 850°C,the mass ratio of vanadium present as calcium vanadate to manganese vanadate stabilized at approximately 2.展开更多
文摘Breast Arterial Calcification(BAC)is a mammographic decision dissimilar to cancer and commonly observed in elderly women.Thus identifying BAC could provide an expense,and be inaccurate.Recently Deep Learning(DL)methods have been introduced for automatic BAC detection and quantification with increased accuracy.Previously,classification with deep learning had reached higher efficiency,but designing the structure of DL proved to be an extremely challenging task due to overfitting models.It also is not able to capture the patterns and irregularities presented in the images.To solve the overfitting problem,an optimal feature set has been formed by Enhanced Wolf Pack Algorithm(EWPA),and their irregularities are identified by Dense-kUNet segmentation.In this paper,Dense-kUNet for segmentation and optimal feature has been introduced for classification(severe,mild,light)that integrates DenseUNet and kU-Net.Longer bound links exist among adjacent modules,allowing relatively rough data to be sent to the following component and assisting the system in finding higher qualities.The major contribution of the work is to design the best features selected by Enhanced Wolf Pack Algorithm(EWPA),and Modified Support Vector Machine(MSVM)based learning for classification.k-Dense-UNet is introduced which combines the procedure of Dense-UNet and kU-Net for image segmentation.Longer bound associations occur among nearby sections,allowing relatively granular data to be sent to the next subsystem and benefiting the system in recognizing smaller characteristics.The proposed techniques and the performance are tested using several types of analysis techniques 826 filled digitized mammography.The proposed method achieved the highest precision,recall,F-measure,and accuracy of 84.4333%,84.5333%,84.4833%,and 86.8667%when compared to other methods on the Digital Database for Screening Mammography(DDSM).
文摘This retrospective cohort study from a single clinical practice enrolled patients with evidence of calcified Peyronie＇s disease （PD） plaques detected on penile ultrasound at the time of initial presentation. The primary objective was to describe the effect of pentoxifylline （PTX） treatment on subtunical calcifications in men with PD. A PD-specific questionnaire was administered and sonographic evaluations were performed at baseline and follow-up visits. Descriptive statistics and X2 analysis were used to characterize the effect of PTX on calcified tunical plaques. In all, 71 men （mean age： 51.9 years） with PD and sonographic evidence of calcification were identified. Of them, 62 of these men were treated with PTX for a mean duration of I year, and nine with vitamin E or no treatment. Improvement or stabilization in calcium burden at follow-up was noted in 57 （91.9%） of men treated with PTX versus four （44,4%） of those not treated with PTX （P〈0.001）. PTX users were much less likely to have a subjective worsening of their clinical condition （25.0% versus 78.3%, P=0.002）. Treatment with PTX appeared to stabilize or reduce calcium content in PD plaques. A randomized controlled trial is warranted to further explore this effect.
文摘The authors report herein a series of 3 patients with caseous mitral annular calcifications (MAC). One of the patients presented with mass-like, caseous MAC as an incidental finding on a staging computed tomography (CT) for metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Another patient presented with a nodule on a chest radiograph, which was later found on CT to be due to caseous MAC. In the third patient, caseous MAC was initially detected on echocardiography, and was further evaluated with CT and cardiac magnetic resonance imag-ing. In all three patients, the appearances posed a diagnostic dilemma. The appearance of caseous MAC is dissimilar to non-caseous MAC and is usually seen as an ovoid, mass-like structure, with homogeneous hyperattenuation, representing a liquefied form of calcium and proteinaceous fluid. This homogeneous center is surrounded by peripheral, shell-like calcifications. Caseous MAC is likely an under-recognized entity and may present a diagnostic dilemma at CT, magnetic resonance imaging, or echocardiography.
文摘The purpose of the present study was to determine the association between presence and progression of Coronary Artery Calcifications (CAC) quantified with Agatston Score (AS) and inflammatory index as CRP and other parameters in unselected renal transplant recipients. Forty-five patients were underwent a baseline Multislice CT (MSCT) at the time of renal transplant and a repeat evaluation 12 - 16 months later. After second MSCT recipients were divided in three groups: Gr1 (26 patients) with absence of CAC at basal and second MSCT, Gr2 (11 patients) with reduction of CAC after one year and Gr3 (8 patients) with increased values of CAC after one year. Mean +/- Standard deviation of basal and after one year values of AS and CRP were respectively: Gr1: 2 +/-3;2 +/- 5 and 0.4 +/- 0.3;0.55 +/- 0.67;Gr2: 317 +/- 288;212 +/- 242 and 0.9 +/- 1.1;0.55 +/- 0.6;Gr3: 854 +/- 1168;1032 +/- 1153 and 0.8 +/- 0.8;1.1 +/-?0.96. We found capacity of renal transplantation to protect against development of new calcium deposits in recipients without CAC at time of transplantation. While we confirmed association in Gr2 between reduction of CAC with reduction of CRP levels and in Gr3 between increased levels of CRP with increasing of CAC. Conclusion: In this preliminary study, renal transplantation appears to slow down or increasing CAC, in strict association with modifications of CRP levels. Long term studies are needed to confirm our preliminary data and to determine the effects of CAC on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in renal transplant recipients.
文摘AIM: To examine the correlation between the severity of venous calcifications and the clinical symptoms of phlebosclerotic colitis.METHODS: This was a retrospective study.The data,including the numbers of episodes of active disease,were collected from the medical records at Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Wei Gong Memorial Hospital in Taiwan between January 2005 and December 2014.All computed tomography images with or without contrast enhancement were obtained using a multiple detector computed tomography scanner.The scanning range reached from the dome of the diaphragm to the pelvis.The severity of calcification at the tributaries of the portal vein was measured using a four-grade scoring system of the calcification of phlebosclerotic colitis.The episodes of active disease were defined as symptoms of fever,abdominal pain,severe constipation,bowel obstruction,vomiting or diarrhea based on a review of the medical records.Spearman's correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between the numbers of episodes of active disease and the severity of the calcification of the mesenteric veins.RESULTS: More than 3000 cases were reviewed from 2005 to 2014,and a total of 12 patients from Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Wei Gong Memorial Hospital were enrolled according to our inclusion criteria.Among these 12 patients,the mean age of the six males and the six females was 61.8 ± 11.5 years.All patients exhibited typical imaging characteristics,consisting of threadlike calcifications and colonic wall thickening in the standard radiographs and calcifications along the colonic and mesenteric vessels or associated with colonic wall thickening and adjacent fat stranding in the computed tomography images.The median score of the severity of the venous calcifications was 18 ± 13,and the median number of active disease episodes was 1 ± 1.75.Spearman's correlation analysis revealed that the number of episodes of active phlebosclerotic colitis disease significantly positively correlated with the severity of the calcification of the mesenteric veins(r = 0.619,P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: The extent of mesenteric venous calcification is strongly associated with the number of episodes of active disease among patients with phlebosclerotic colitis.
文摘Prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications have a high incidence in elderly men. We aimed to investigate the diagnostic capabilities of susceptibility-weighted imaging in detecting prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications. A total number of 156 men, including 34 with prostate cancer and 122 with benign prostate were enrolled in this study. Computed tomography, conventional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, and susceptibility-weighted imaging were performed on all the patients. One hundred and twelve prostatic calcifications were detected in 87 patients. The sensitivities and specificities of the conventional magnetic resonance imaging, apparent diffusion coefficient, and susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostate cancer and prostatic calcifications were calculated. McNemar＇s Chi-square test was used to compare the differences in sensitivities and specificities between the techniques. The results showed that the sensitivity and specificity of susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostatic cancer were greater than that of conventional magnetic resonance imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient （P 〈 0.05）. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of susceptibility-filtered phase images in detecting prostatic calcifications were comparable to that of computed tomography and greater than that of conventional magnetic resonance imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient （P 〈 0.05）. Given the high incidence of susceptibility-weighted imaging （SWl） abnormality in prostate cancer, we conclude that susceptibility-weighted imaging is more sensitive and specific than conventional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, and computed tomography in detecting prostate cancer. Furthermore, susceptibility-weighted imaging can identify prostatic calcifications similar to computed tomography, and it is much better than conventional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging.
文摘Calcification of the portal venous system is a rare entity that can be incidentally discovered during computed tomography (CT). We describe a case of extensive calcifications in the portal venous system in a middle-aged male patient with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This patient presented with epigastric pain that had no obvious origin prior to admission. Laboratory examinations were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen and α-fetoprotein, and severe esophageal and gastric varices were detected during gastroscopy. Abdominal X-ray plain film showed well-defined linear and track-like calcification, with irregular margins directed along the course of the portal venous system. CT revealed extensive calcifications along the course of the portal, splenic, superior mesenteric and gastroesophageal veins. He underwent splenectomy 22 years ago due to splenomegaly and partial hepatectomy seven months before because of HCC of low-grade differentiation, confirmed by pathology. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with postoperative recurrent HCC and extensive portal venous system calcification after selective hepatic angiography under digital subtraction angiography.
基金Supported by the Health Industry Special Scientific Research Project(201402019)
文摘Objective To retrospectively determine the features of stones and calcifications in hepatobiliary system on virtual nonenhanced (VNE) dual-energy computed tomography (CT), and to evaluate the possibility of VNE images in diagnosis for those lesions. Methods A total of 128 gall stones and calcifications of the liver found in 110 patients were examined with triple phase abdominal CT scan from July 2007 to December 2011, in which true nonenhanced (TNE) phase and arterial phase were performed with single-energy CT (120 kVp) and portal venous phase was performed with dual-energy CT (100 kVp and 140 kVp). VNE images were generated from the portal venous phase dual-energy CT data sets by using commercially VNC software. The mean CT values for the stone, liver, bile and paraspinal muscle, mean lesion density and size in area dimension, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of lesion to the liver or bile, and image noise were assessed and compared between VNE and TNE images. The effective dose and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) were also calculated. Results The mean CT values of the lesions measured on VNE images declined significantly compared with those measured on TNE images (164.51±102.13vs. 290.72±197.80 HU,P<0.001), so did the lesion-to-liver CNR (10.80±11.82vs.18.81±17.06,P<0.001) and the lesion-to-bile CNR (17.24±14.41 vs. 21.32±17.31,P<0.001). There was no significant difference in size of lesions area between VNE and TNE images (0.69±0.88vs.0.72±0.85 cm2,P=0.062). Compared to the 128 lesions found in TNE images, VNE images showed the same density in 30 (23.4%) lesions, lighter density in 88 (68.8%) lesions, while failed to show 10 (7.8%) lesions, and showed the same size in 61 (47.7%) lesions and smaller size in 57 (44.5%) lesions. The CT cutoff values of lesion and size were 229.21 HU and 0.15 cm2, respectively. The total effective dose for triple phase scan protocol with TNE images was 19.51±7.03 mSv, and the SSDE was 39.84±11.10 mGy. The effective dose for dual phase scan protocol with VNE images instead of TNE images was 13.29±4.89 mSv, and the SSDE was 27.83±9.99 mGy. Compared with TNE images, the effective dose and SSDE of VNE images were down by 32.05%±3.69 % and 30.63%±2.34 %, respectively. Conclusions Although the CT values and CNR of the lesions decreased in VNE images, the lesions of which attenuation greater than 229.21 HU and size larger than 0.15 cm2could be detected with good reliability and obvious dose reduction. There was good consistency in the size of stones and calcifications in hepatobiliary system between VNE images and TNE images, which ensured the possibility of the clinical application of VNE images.
文摘BACKGROUND Mucinous gastric carcinoma(MGC)is a rare histological type of gastric carcinoma.Calcifications,seen on imaging and histopathological preparations,and which are infrequent in other types of gastric carcinoma,are characteristic of MGC.We present a patient with MGC with calcifications of the gastric wall and describe the computerized tomography(CT)features of the lesion and changes in the calcifications before and after chemotherapy.CASE SUMMARY A 61-year-old man was admitted to our hospital in May 2020 because of a large,tender abdominal mass.Abdominal CT showed diffuse,irregular thickening of the gastric walls,with miliary and punctate calcifications.There were metastases to the perigastric and retroperitoneal lymph nodes and also peritoneal seeding.Histological examination of a specimen obtained by endoscopic biopsy showed poorly differentiated calcified signet-ring cell gastric cancer.The patient was clinically staged with T4N+M1 disease.He was treated with docetaxel,cisplatin,and fluorouracil as first-line therapy,irinotecan combined with S-1 as second-line chemotherapy,and programmed cell death protein 1 as third-line therapy.The patient underwent a total of nine cycles of chemotherapy.Follow-up CT scans every 3 mo showed continually increasing calcifications.As of this writing,the patient has survived almost 1 year.CONCLUSION In this case report,we describe the histopathological and imaging characteristics of a patient with gastric cancer receiving chemotherapy.Multiple punctate calcifications were seen,which gradually increased during chemotherapy.Several possible mechanisms for the calcifications are described,but further research is needed.Future findings may lead to new approaches for the evaluation and treatment of such tumors.
文摘Background and Objective: Epidemiological and clinical studies have shown that vascular calcification and arterial vascular stiffness are associated with all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in the general populations and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The objective of this study was the assessment of arterial stiffness and vascular calcification in ESRD patients in Sohag University Hospital. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 100 patients with ESRD (63 males and 37 females) were included. The patients were on regular hemodialysis (HD) for 65.18 ± 50.25 months. Arterial stiffness was measured by brachial pulse pressure (PP). A simple vascular calcification score (SVCS) based on plain radiographic films of pelvis and hands was used for assessment of vascular calcification. The patients undergoing clinical evaluation and serum calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were obtained. Results: PP > 70 mmHg was observed in 24 patients (24%) and vascular calcifications were detected in 50 patients (50%). SVCS ≥ 3 was observed in 36 patients (36%) and 10 patients (10%) had both SVCS ≥ 3 and PP > 70 mmHg. PP > 70 was significantly associated with presence of vascular disease (odds ratio;5, 95% CI = 1.56 - 16.01;P = 0.007). In multivariate analysis, PP > 70 was independently associated with elevated systolic blood pressure (odds ratio;1.34, 95% CI = 1.11 - 1.6;P = 0.002) and serum PTH (odds ratio;1.004, 95% CI = 1 - 1.008;P = 0.03). SVCS ≥ 3 was association with age (odds ratio;1.05, 95% CI = 1.02 - 1.09;P = 0.003) and presence of vascular disease (odds ratio;3.19, 95% CI = 1.3 - 7.85;P = 0.01). Elevated systolic blood pressure was independently associated with SVCS ≥ 3 (odds ratio;1.08, 95% CI = 1.03 - 1.14;P = 0.002). Conclusion: Arterial stiffness and vascular calcifications are common in patients with ESRD on regular hemodialysis. PP and SVCS are simple and inexpensive methods in assessment of vascular calcifications and arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients. PP and SVCS may provide important information that may guide the management of these patients.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province(2022A1515010297)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32100765)+1 种基金the Xiamen Medical Health Science and Technology Project(3502Z20194098)the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao Science and Technology Innovation Project(SGDX2020110309280100).
文摘Dear Editor,Sturge-Weber Syndrome(SWS)is a rare congenital neurocutaneous syndrome[1,2],with an estimated prevalence of 0.19 in 100,000 annually[3].It is a non-hereditary disease linked to a somatic mutation in the GNAQ,GNA11,or GNB2 gene[1],leading to vascular malformations in the cutaneous forehead,cerebral cortex,and eye[1,2].Notably,~70%of pediatric patients diagnosed with SWS exhibit brain calcification(BC)[4],though the prevalence of BC ranges from only 1%in young individuals to>20%in the senior population(>60 years old)[5].Similar to the elderly,BC in pediatric SWS patients is identified as vascular calcification[6,7],whereas BC in pediatric patients with tuberous sclerosis and tumors has been previously described as dystrophic calcification[6].
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82170375,U23A20395)1.3.5 project for disciplines of excellence from West China Hospital of Sichuan University(ZYGD23021,23HXF-H009)Sichuan Science and Technology Program 2023NSFSC1645。
文摘Background Hypertension is associated with an increased risk of calcific aortic valve stenosis(CAVS).However,the directionality of causation between blood pressure traits and aortic stenosis is unclear,as is the benefit of antihypertensive drugs for CAVS.Methods Using genome-wide association studies(GWAS)summary statistics,we performed bidirectional two-sample univariable mendelian randomization(UVMR)to assess the causal associations of systolic blood pressure(SBP),diastolic blood pressure(DBP),and pulse pressure(PP)with CAVS.Multivariable mendelian randomization(MVMR)was conducted to evaluate the direct effect of hypertension on CAVS,adjusting for confounders.Drug target mendelian randomization(MR)and summary-level MR(SMR)were used to estimate the effects of 12 classes of antihypertensive drugs and their target genes on CAVS risk.Inverse variance weighting was the primary MR method,with sensitivity analyses to validate results.Results UVMR showed SBP,DBP,and PP have causal effects on CAVS,with no significant reverse causality.MVMR confirmed the causality between hypertension and CAVS after adjusting for confounders.Drug-target MR analyses indicated that calcium channel blockers(CCBs),loop diuretics,and thiazide diuretics via SBP lowering exerted protective effects on CAVS risk.SMR analysis showed that the CCBs target gene CACNA2D2 and ARBs target gene AGTR1 were positively associated with CAVS risk,while diuretics target genes SLC12A5 and SLC12A1 were negatively associated with aortic stenosis risk.Conclusions Hypertension has a causal relationship with CAVS.Managing SBP in hypertensive patients with CCBs may prevent CAVS.ARBs might exert protective effects on CAVS independent of blood pressure reduction.The relationship between diuretics and CAVS is complex,with opposite effects through different mechanisms.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Nos.2021YFC3100500,2022YFC3103602,2021YFF0502800)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U23A2035)+3 种基金the Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangdong Province,China(No.2023B1212060047)the State Key Laboratory of Tropical Oceanography,South China Sea Institute of Oceanology,Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.LTO1919)the Visiting Fellowship Program of the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science,Xiamen University(No.MELRS1914)the Hainan Province Key R&D Program(No.ZDYF2023SHFZ131)。
文摘Global coral reef ecosystems have been severely degraded due to the combined effects of climate change and human activities.Changes in the seawater carbonate system of coral reef ecosystems can reflect their status and their responses to the impacts of climate change and human activities.Winter and summer surveys in 2019 found that the ecological community of the Luhuitou coral reef flat was dominated by macroalgae and corals,respectively,contrasting with the conditions 10 years ago.The Luhuitou fringing reefs were sources of atmospheric CO_(2) in both seasons.In winter,the daily variation range of dissolved inorganic carbon(DIC)in Luhuitou coral reefs was up to 450μmol/kg,while that of total alkalinity(TA)was only 68μmol/kg.This indicated that the organic production was significantly higher than the calcification process during this period.The TA/DIC was approximately 0.15,which was less than half of that in healthy coral reefs;hence,photosynthesis-respiration processes were the most important factors controlling daily changes in the seawater carbonate system.The net community production(NCP)of the Luhuitou coral reef ecosystem in winter was as high as 47.65 mmol C/(m^(2)·h).While the net community calcification(NCC)was approximately 3.35 and-4.15 mmol CaCO_(3)/(m^(2)·h)during the daytime and nighttime respectively.Therefore,the NCC for the entire day was-21.9 mmol CaCO_(3)/(m^(2)·d),indicating a net autotrophic dissolved state.In summer,the acidification was enhanced by thunderstorms and heavy rain with the highest seawater partial pressure of CO_(2)(p CO_(2))and lowest pH T.Over the past 10 years,the increase rate of seawater p CO_(2) in Luhuitou reef was approximately 13.3μatm/a***,six times that of the open ocean,while the decrease rate of pH was approximately 0.0083/a,being five times that of the global ocean.These findings underscore the importance of protecting and restoring Luhuitou fringing reef,as well as similar reefs worldwide.
基金German Heart Foundation/German Foundation of Heart Research。
文摘Background:Aortic atherosclerosis increases the risk of embolic events under extracorporeal circulation(ECC).To evaluate the hemodynamic impact of ECC on atheromatous plaques,an atherosclerosis animal model,which is also eligible for ECC,is required.Methods:Twenty-nine New Zealand White rabbits received a pro-atherosclerotic diet(group diet,n=10),a pro-atherosclerotic diet and additional intraaortic balloon insufflation injury(group BI,n=9),or served as controls(n=10).After 3 or 6 months,aortic explants were analyzed by(immuno-)histology and RT-PCR.Results:Blood serum analyses revealed increased cholesterol-levels in groups diet and BI compared to controls(3 months:p=0.03 each,6 months:p<0.0001 each).Aortic inflammatory infiltration was significantly enhanced in groups diet(CD3 at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.02;CD68 at 3 months:p=0.01)and BI(CD3 at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.03;CD68 at 3 months:p=0.04,6 months:p=0.02).Increased intima hyperplasia occurred in both groups(p<0.0001 each).Macroscopic analyses after 3 and 6 months showed ubiquitous lumen-narrowing aortic plaques.Calcification of the intima and media was increased in groups diet(intima:p<0.0001 at 3 and 6 months;media at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.01)and BI(intima:p<0.0001 at 3 and 6 months;media at 3 months:p<0.0001,6 months:p=0.02).Extensive lipid accumulation was found in the intima in both treatment groups(p<0.0001 each).Conclusions:A rabbit model with high aortic calcific plaque burden—diet-induced with no implicit need of an additional intimal injury by an intraaortic balloon insufflation due to comparable outcome—exhibiting multiple pathophysiological aspects of human atherosclerosis has been designed and thoroughly characterized.It is suitable for use in future studies on the interaction between atherosclerotic plaques and the arterial blood flow under ECC.
基金Supported by the Guangzhou Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2025A04J4730National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82470635 and No.82300751+2 种基金Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,No.2024A1515011723Medical Scientific Research Foundation of Guangdong Province of China,No.A2023033Jiangxi Provincial Natural Science Foundation,No.20244BAB28028.
文摘BACKGROUND Calciphylaxis,also called calcific uremic arteriolopathy,is characterized by microvascular calcification and occlusion,which is commonly seen in patients with end-stage renal disease(ESRD).Although several studies have demonstrated an association of calciphylaxis with ESRD,reports linking calciphylaxis to LT(LT)are scarce.This report presents a rare case of calciphylaxis in a patient who underwent LT,leading to microvascular occlusion and hyperbilirubinemia.A 34-year-old man presented with a 7-day history of jaundice and severe bilateral leg pain.The patient had undergone LT and was put on hemodialysis for one year due to calcineurin inhibitor-induced ESRD.Physical examination revealed jaundice,leathery skin changes,severe muscle pain in both legs,and penile induration.Laboratory tests identified elevated bilirubin levels,gamma-glutamyl-transferase,and alkaline phosphatase,while alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations were within normal limits.Computed tomography(CT)revealed extensive calcifications in the subcutaneous tissue.Three-dimensional CT reconstruc-tion indicated significantly reduced blood flow in the hepatic artery,primarily in the small to medium-sized branches.Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography confirmed hepatic ischemia,with no enhancement seen in hepatic artery branches.Liver biopsy specimen revealed no signs of rejection.The patient decided to receive conservative treatment and succumbed to the illness after six months.CONCLUSION This case indicates that calciphylaxis should be suspected in patients who have undergone LT with ESRD presenting with hyperbilirubinemia and skin lesions.
基金the support from Graduate Student Scientific Research Innovation Projects in Jiangsu Province(KYCX22_3804)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK20210888).
文摘Resource utilization of metallurgical solid waste is vital for the sustainable development of the steel industry in the context of“dual carbon.”The calcification-carbothermal reduction method was employed to extract zinc and iron from electric furnace dust effectively.In this process,calcium oxide reacts with zinc ferrite to form dicalcium ferrite and zinc oxide,which further promotes the effective separation of zinc and iron.However,the addition of pure calcium oxide increases production costs for steel companies.Herein,a new process for dust removal and zinc recovery in electric furnaces has been developed,using electric furnace slag as a calcium agent and mineral trough ash as a reducing agent.Large amounts of dicalcium ferrate phases were detected in the carbothermal reduction products by steel slag synergistic calcification.The reaction mechanism was determined as ZnFe_(2)O_(4)+CaO→Ca_(2)Fe_(2)O_(5)+ZnO→Ca_(2)Fe_(2)O_(5)+Zn(g).Such a two-step reaction path indicated that steel slag can effectively promote the reduction and volatilization of zinc.The experimental optimal roasting parameters were determined as roasting temperature of 1150℃,roasting time of 45 min,calcium to zinc molar ratio of 1.1,and carbon to oxygen molar ratio of 0.8.The mass percentage of added steel slag was recorded as 21.83%,while that of mineral trough ash was 21.85%.Under these conditions,the zinc removal rate above 99%and the metallization rate of pellets of about 75.31%were achieved.Overall,the proposed method looks promising for future efficient separation of zinc and iron in industrial steel slag.
文摘Vascular calcification is closely associated with cardiovascular-related mortality,particularly high-risk of occurring this disease is in patients suffering from hypertension.Vascular calcification involves the active deposition of calcium and other mineral substances in the vascular wall.In blood vessels,intimal calcification is related to atherosclerosis,whereas medial calcification is a non-occlusive process that increases vascular stiffness and reduces vascular compliance.In the valves,calcification of the leaflets can change the mechanical properties of the tissue and result in stenosis.Cardiovascular diseases are being lead significant health risk worldwide and its estimated 30%of deaths.Synthetic drugs can help in the treatment of cardiovascular disease but they have limited efficacy and carry substantial risks.High risk and narrow margin of safety of synthetic drugs growing our interest to explore the different plants with specific medicinal properties in treatment of different cardiovascular disorders including hypertension,atherosclerosis,cardiac arrest and heart failure.Plants like Daucus carota,Nerium oleander,Amaranthus,Terminalia arjuna,and Picrorhiza kurroa contain phytochemicals like tea flavonoids,polyphenols,plant sterols,and terpenoids that can prevent low density lipoprotein cholesterol oxidation,inhibit cholesterol synthesis and promote vasodilation.Researchers has identified many medicinal herbs and their chemical components that show potential in alleviating vascular calcification via antioxidant mechanisms.In this study,we briefly discuss the role of vascular calcification in the pathophysiology of cardiac diseases.Utilizing the efficacy of these natural molecules will lead to the development of new treatment methods for chronic heart disease associated with vascular calcification.
文摘BACKGROUND Postmenopausal women face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease(CVD)due to estrogen withdrawal,which exacerbates traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidemia,glucose intolerance,and hypertension.Coronary Artery Calcium Score(CACS),a well-established marker of subclinical atherosclerosis,has emerged as a key predictor of adverse cardiovascular events.Despite the recognized association between menopause and heightened CVD risk,there remains a paucity of literature exploring the specific role of menopause in influencing CACS and its implications for cardiovascular morbidity and morta lity.AIM To examine the interplay between menopause,CACS,and cardiovascular health by synthesizing existing literature.METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar,focusing on studies that analyzed CACS in postmenopausal women,including the influence of factors such as hormone therapy,Triglyceride-Glucose index,bone mineral density,lipid metabolism,and type-1 diabetes.Data extraction and synthesis emphasized key patterns,metabolic influences,and potential mechanisms driving coronary calcification in menopause.RESULTS Findings suggest that menopause contributes to increased CACS through multiple pathways,including altered lipid metabolism,insulin resistance,and arterial stiffness.Additionally,premature menopause is associated with higher CACS and elevated CVD risk.While hormone replacement therapy(HRT)appears to have a protective effect against coronary calcification,further research is needed to clarify its long-term benefits and risks.CONCLUSION We introduce a novel framework combining CACS with metabolic and hormonal markers,and discuss estrogendriven mechanisms and HRT considerations in postmenopausal cardiovascular risk.This review underscores the need for targeted cardiovascular risk assessment in postmenopausal women,integrating CACS with other metabolic markers to improve early detection and prevention of CVD in this high-risk population.
文摘Background Coronary artery calcification(CAC),a hallmark of atherosclerosis,paradoxically associates with reduced cardiovascular risk under statin therapy despite accelerated calcification progression,prompting this study to explore CAC metrics as potential mediators between statin use and major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE).Methods Clinical data of 246 hospitalized patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography(CCTA)at Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital from January 2023 to June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.Linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between statin use and CAC parameters.Multivariable Poisson regression models were applied to explore the associations of statin use and CAC parameters with MACE risk.A mediation analysis was performed to assess the role of CAC parameters in the statin-MACE relationship.Results Statin use was independently associated with increased calcification score(β=0.648,P<0.001),CAC volume(β=0.623,P<0.001),and calcified plaque proportion(β=0.606,P=0.002).Multivariable Poisson regression indicated that statin use significantly reduced MACE risk[incidence rate ratio(IRR):0.33,P=0.018],whereas calcification score(IRR:2.63,P=0.026)and CACvolume(IRR:2.66,P=0.044)were associated with elevated MACE risk;Calcified plaque proportion showed no significant association.Mediation analysis revealed that calcification score(β=0.035,P=0.021)and CAC volume(β=0.023,P=0.018)exerted masking effects,while calcified plaque proportion had no mediating role.Conclusions Calcification score and CACvolume demonstrated limited masking effects in the association between statin use and MACE.
基金finally supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.52204309,52174277,52374300)。
文摘A simplified CaO-V_(2)O_(5)-MnO_(2) system was established to qualitatively and quantitatively investigate the transformation behavior of vanadates.The results demonstrated dynamic transformations between calcium vanadate and manganese vanadate as n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))ratios and roasting temperatures varied.When MnO_(2) was incrementally added with n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))of 2,some Ca_(2)V_(2)O_(7) converted to Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7).The mass of vanadium as calcium vanadate consistently exceeded that as manganese vanadate.Conversely,when CaO was gradually added with n(MnO_(2))/n(V_(2)O_(5))of 2,Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7) tended to transform into Ca_(2)V_(2)O_(7) and Ca3V2O8.The affinity of vanadium for calcium was higher compared that of vanadium for manganese.The specific type of calcium vanadate formed depended on both n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))values and roasting temperatures,while manganese vanadate remained predominantly as Mn_(2)V_(2)O_(7).The influence of roasting temperature on the conversion between calcium vanadate and manganese vanadate was minimal.At n(CaO)/n(V_(2)O_(5))/n(MnO_(2))of 2/1/2 and temperatures ranging from 650 to 850°C,the mass ratio of vanadium present as calcium vanadate to manganese vanadate stabilized at approximately 2.
