Exposure to ozone, a powerful greenhouse gas and a widespread air pollutant in many major cities, may cause cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and lead to heart attacks and strokes, according to a new study of Chinese adults. Ozone is a pollutant formed by a chemical reaction when sunlight interacts with nitrogen oxides and other organic compounds generated by coal-burning, vehicle exhaust and some natural sources. It has long been associated with adverse health effects in children and adults. "We know that ozone can damage the respiratory system, reduce lung function and cause asthma attacks," said study author Junfeng Zhang, from Duke and Duke Kunshan universities. "Here, we wanted to learn whether ozone affects other aspects of human health, specifically the cardiovascular system." Zhang and colleagues did a yearlong study of 89 healthy adults living in Changsha. They monitored indoor and outdoor ozone levels, along with other pollutants. The team examined inflammation and oxidative stress, arterial stiffness, blood pressure, clotting factors and lung function in participants. They noted an increase in blood pressure, suggesting a possible mechanism by which ozone may affect cardiovascular health. These effects were found with ozone exposure lower than levels that affect respiratory health. "This study shows that standards for safe ozone exposure should take into account its effect on cardiovascular disease risk," said Zhang. The findings were published on Monday in the US journal JAMA Internal Medicine. Xinhua 24 hour wristbands coupon codewellies and wristbands 201724 wristbandscustom fidget
BEIJING -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) is expected to amend its constitution at the upcoming national congress. The Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee deliberated a draft amendment to the constitution at a meeting which was presided over by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, on Monday. Amending the constitution at the 19th CPC National Congress on the basis of the new situation and tasks would promote the development of socialism with Chinese characteristics and Party building, said a statement issued after the meeting. It said the amendments should include the key theories and strategic thoughts presented by a work report to be delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress. The amended constitution should fully represent the latest sinicization of Marxism, the new governance concepts, thoughts and strategies of the CPC Central Committee since the 18th CPC National Congress, as well as the fresh experiences in adhering to and strengthening Party leadership, and in strict Party governance, according to the statement. It also noted that the amendment should make the CPC more vigorous, stronger and enable it to keep a close connection with the people. The draft amendment will be submitted to the seventh plenary meeting of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which will be held on Oct 11. The CPC constitution was last amended in 2012.
