bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Challenge for Engineering Biomimetic Microvascular Models: How do we Incorporate the Physiology?
Authors: Lampejo Arinola O. , Hu Nien-Wen , Lucas Daniela , Lomel Banks M. , Nguyen Christian M. , Dominguez Carmen C. , Ren Bing , Huang Yong , Murfee Walter L.
Published: June 2022

The gap between in vitro and in vivo assays has inspired biomimetic model development. Tissue engineered models that attempt to mimic the complexity of microvascular networks have emerged as tools for investigating cell-cell and cell-environment interactions that may be not easily viewed in vivo. A key challenge in model development, however, is determining how to recreate the multi-cell/system functional complexity of a real network environment that integrates endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, vascular pericytes, lymphatics, nerves, fluid flow, extracellular matrix, and inflammatory cells. The objective of this mini-review is to overview the recent evolution of popular biomimetic modeling approaches for investigating microvascular dynamics. A specific focus will highlight the engineering design requirements needed to match physiological function and the potential for top-down tissue culture methods that maintain complexity. Overall, examples of physiological validation, basic science discoveries, and therapeutic evaluation studies will emphasize the value of tissue culture models and biomimetic model development approaches that fill the gap between in vitro and in vivo assays and guide how vascular biologists and physiologists might think about the microcirculation.
AuNPs@MIL-101 (Cr) as a SERS-Active Substrate for Sensitive Detection of VOCs
Authors: Xie Dan , Wang Ruimeng , Fu Jinghao , Zhao Zhongxing , Li Min
Published: June 2022

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is an important and powerful analytical technique in chemical and biochemical analyses. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) can effectively capture volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with high adsorption capacity and fast kinetics, and the local surface plasmon resonance characteristics of gold nanoparticles can quickly and effectively distinguish different VOCs by SERS. Combining both, we designed a novel SERS substrate based on embedding gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) within MIL-101(Cr) for the recognition of various VOCs in the gaseous phase. Occupying of AuNPs inside MIL-101(Cr) increased the micropore-specific surface area of AuNPs@MIL-101(Cr), which enabled AuNPs@MIL-101(Cr) to absorb more toluene molecules and consequently realized its high detection sensitivity. The detection limits for toluene, 4-ethylbenzaldehyde, and formaldehyde were down to 6, 5, and 75, ppm respectively. Moreover, this substrate could be used for detecting different VOCs simultaneously. Finally, we discussed the enhancement of AuNPs outside and inside MIL-101(Cr) on the Raman signal.
Fabrication, Properties, and Biomedical Applications of Calcium-Containing Cellulose-Based Composites
Authors: Shi Ru-Jie , Lang Jia-Qi , Wang Tian , Zhou Nong , Ma Ming-Guo
Published: June 2022

Calcium-containing cellulose-based composites possess the advantages of high mechanical strength, excellent osteoconductivity, biocompatibility, biodegradation, and bioactivity, which represent a promising application system in the biomedical field. Calcium-containing cellulose-based composites have become the hotspot of study of various biomedical fields. In this mini-review article, the synthesis of calcium-containing cellulose-based composites is summarized via a variety of methods such as the biomimetic mineralization method, microwave method, co-precipitation method, hydrothermal method, freeze-drying method, mechanochemical reaction method, and ultrasound method. The development on the fabrication, properties, and applications of calcium-containing cellulose-based composites is highlighted. The as-existed problems and future developments of cellulose-based composites are provided. It is expected that calcium-containing cellulose-based composites are the ideal candidate for biomedical application.
Psychosocial Well-Being Determinants and Occupants’ Happiness in a Green Neighbourhood/Community
Authors: Ekhaese Eghosa Noel , Hussain Waqar Sukoon
Published: June 2022

Psychosocial well-being and happiness are better in green neighbourhoods due to access to nature and green spaces. Hence, this study focusses on investigating how psychosocial well-being determinants (PWDs) affect occupants’ happiness in a green residential community. This article identifies the psychosocial-well-being domain, ascertains PWDs in the green neighbourhood, and analyses the effects of these PWDs on occupants’-happiness. The research method includes a qualitative and systematic subjective approach. Data were collected using triangulation—deductive extractions from literature to familiarize authors with the phenomenon under investigation, interview guides and focused group discussion on expert opinions, and observation guide to elicit information on the identified PWDs in a green community. The researchers had interactions with fifty (50) professionals, architects, builders, material engineers, service engineers, estate surveyors, urban and regional planners, property developers, medical doctors, psychologists, environmentalists, biologists, chemists, art historians, environmental health practitioners, and occupants. From the interviews, discussion, and deduction, psychosocial well-being determinants in a green neighbourhood include personal happiness and demography, lifestyle, community structure, local economy, activities, the built environment, natural environment, and global ecosystem. The data result suggested that other environmental factors influenced PWDs. Consequently, PWDs in the community affect occupants’ well-being and happiness in a green home/neighbourhood or community.
Self-Assembling Imageable Silk Hydrogels for the Focal Treatment of Osteosarcoma
Authors: Peng Zhibin , Li Ming , Wang Yuan , Yang Hongbo , Wei Wei , Liang Min , Shi Jianhui , Liu Ruixuan , Li Rui , Zhang Yubo , Liu Jingsong , Shi Xu , Wan Ran , Fu Yao , Xie Rui , Wang Yansong
Published: June 2022

Background: The standard treatment for osteosarcoma comprises complete surgical resection and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which may cause serious side effects and partial or total limb loss. Therefore, to avoid the disadvantages of traditional treatment, we developed self-assembling imageable silk hydrogels for osteosarcoma.

Methods: We analysed whether iodine induced apoptosis in MG-63 and Saos-2 cells by using CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays and transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was used to analyse the pathway of iodine-induced apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. PEG400, silk fibroin solution, polyvinylpyrrolidone iodine (PVP-I), and meglumine diatrizoate (MD) were mixed to produce an imageable hydrogel. A nude mouse model of osteosarcoma was established, and the hydrogel was injected locally into the interior of the osteosarcoma with X-ray guidance. The therapeutic effect and biosafety of the hydrogel were evaluated.

Results: Iodine treatment at 18 and 20 µM for 12 h resulted in cell survival rate reduced to 50 ± 2.1% and 50.5 ± 2.7% for MG-63 and Sao-2 cells, respectively (p < 0.01). The proportion of apoptotic cells was significantly higher in the iodine-treatment group than in the control group (p < 0.05), and apoptotic bodies were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Iodine could regulate the death receptor pathway and induce MG-63 and Saos-2 cell apoptosis. The hydrogels were simple to assemble, and gels could be formed within 38 min. A force of less than 50 N was required to inject the gels with a syringe. The hydrogels were readily loaded and led to sustained iodine release over 1 week. The osteosarcoma volume in the PEG-iodine-silk/MD hydrogel group was significantly smaller than that in the other three groups (p < 0.001). Caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) expression levels were significantly higher in the PEG-iodine-silk/MD hydrogel group than in the other three groups (p < 0.001). Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining showed no abnormalities in the heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, pancreas or thyroid in any group.

Conclusions: Self-assembling imageable silk hydrogels could be injected locally into osteosarcoma tissues with X-ray assistance. With the advantages of good biosafety, low systemic toxicity and minimal invasiveness, self-assembling imageable silk hydrogels provide a promising approach for improving the locoregional control of osteosarcoma.
Long Noncoding RNAs as Orchestrators of CD4+ T-Cell Fate
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang Yanli , Ma Zhanchuan , Yi Huanfa
Published: June 2022

CD4+T cells differentiate towards different subpopulations through the regulation of lineage-specific cytokines and transcription factors, which flexibly respond to various immune challenges. However, considerable work has demonstrated that the CD4+T-cell differentiation mechanism is complex and not limited to transcription factors and cytokines. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA molecules with lengths exceeding 200 base pairs that regulate various biological processes and genes. LncRNAs have been found to conciliate the plasticity of CD4+T-cell differentiation. Then, we focused on lncRNAs involved in CD4+T-cell differentiation and enlisted some molecular thought into the plasticity and functional heterogeneity of CD4+T cells. Furthermore, elucidating how lncRNAs modulate CD4+T-cell differentiation in disparate immune diseases may provide a basis for the pathological mechanism of immune-mediated diseases.
Evolution, Expression and Functional Analysis of CXCR3 in Neuronal and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Satarkar Devi , Patra Chinmoy
Published: June 2022

Chemokines form a sophisticated communication network wherein they maneuver the spatiotemporal migration of immune cells across a system. These chemical messengers are recognized by chemokine receptors, which can trigger a cascade of reactions upon binding to its respective ligand. CXC chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) is a transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor, which can selectively bind to CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11. CXCR3 is predominantly expressed on immune cells, including activated T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. It thus plays a crucial role in immunological processes like homing of effector cells to infection sites and for pathogen clearance. Additionally, it is expressed on several cell types of the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, due to which it has been implicated in several central nervous system disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, dengue viral disease, and glioblastoma, as well as cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy, and hypertension. This review provides a narrative description of the evolution, structure, function, and expression of CXCR3 and its corresponding ligands in mammals and zebrafish and the association of CXCR3 receptors with cardiovascular and neuronal disorders. Unraveling the mechanisms underlying the connection of CXCR3 and disease could help researchers investigate the potential of CXCR3 as a biomarker for early diagnosis and as a therapeutic target for pharmacological intervention, along with developing robust zebrafish disease models.
Resource for FRET-Based Biosensor Optimization
Authors: Kim Heonsu , Choi Gyuho , Suk Myung Eun , Kim Tae-Jin
Published: June 2022

After the development of Cameleon, the first fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based calcium indicator, a variety of FRET-based genetically encoded biosensors (GEBs) have visualized numerous target players to monitor their cell physiological dynamics spatiotemporally. Many attempts have been made to optimize GEBs, which require labor-intensive effort, novel approaches, and precedents to develop more sensitive and versatile biosensors. However, researchers face considerable trial and error in upgrading biosensors because examples and methods of improving FRET-based GEBs are not well documented. In this review, we organize various optimization strategies after assembling the existing cases in which the non-fluorescent components of biosensors are upgraded. In addition, promising areas to which optimized biosensors can be applied are briefly discussed. Therefore, this review could serve as a resource for researchers attempting FRET-based GEB optimization.
In Vitro Biotransformation of Total Glycosides in Qiwei Baizhu Powder by the Gut Microbiota of Normal and Diarrheal Mice: Novel Insight Into the Biotransformation of Multi-Glycosides by the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Xie Guozhen , Zhou Rongrong , Huang Lili , Zhang Shuihan , Tan Zhoujin
Published: June 2022

The gut microbiota (GM) is involved in the metabolism of glycosides and is beneficial for enhancing their bioactivity. However, the metabolism of multi-glycosides by the GM under normal and pathological conditions is unclear. In this study, the total glycosides (TG) of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula Qiwei Baizhu Powder (QWBZP) were extracted to represent a multi-glycoside system. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) was used to rapidly identify the components and in vitro metabolites of QWBZP-TG. The metabolic profiles of QWBZP-TG in the GM of normal and diarrheal mice were also compared. A total of 68 compounds and seven metabolites were identified in the QWBZP-TG and metabolic samples, respectively. Deglycosylation was the main metabolic pathway of in vitro multi-glycoside metabolism. Liquiritin apioside, isoliquiritin apioside, liquiritin, protopanaxadiol (PPD)-type, and oleanane (OLE)-type ginsenosides were relatively easy to metabolize by the GM. At first, the deglycosylation capability of the GM of normal mice was superior to that of diarrheal mice, but the deglycosylation capability of diarrheal mice gradually recovered and produced abundant deglycosylation metabolites. In conclusion, deglycosylation metabolites may be the bioactive components of QWBZP. Glycoside-bacteria interaction may be a key mechanism for QWBZP to therapy diarrhea.
Genomic and Evolutionary Analysis of Salmonella enterica Serovar Kentucky Sequence Type 198 Isolated From Livestock In East Africa
Authors: Saraiva Mauro de Mesquita Sousa , Benevides Valdinete Pereira , Silva Núbia Michelle Vieira da , Varani Alessandro de Mello , Freitas Neto Oliveiro Caetano de , Berchieri Ângelo , Delgado-Suárez Enrique Jesús , Rocha Alan Douglas de Lima , Eguale Tadesse , Munyalo Janet Agnes , Kariuki Samuel , Gebreyes Wondwossen Abebe , Oliveira Celso José Bruno de
Published: June 2022

Since its emergence in the beginning of the 90’s, multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Kentucky has become a significant public health problem, especially in East Africa. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial resistance profile and the genotypic relatedness of Salmonella Kentucky isolated from animal sources in Ethiopia and Kenya (n=19). We also investigated population evolutionary dynamics through phylogenetic and pangenome analyses with additional publicly available Salmonella Kentucky ST198 genomes (n=229). All the 19 sequenced Salmonella Kentucky isolates were identified as ST198. Among these isolates, the predominant genotypic antimicrobial resistance profile observed in ten (59.7%) isolates included the aac(3)-Id, aadA7, strA-strB, blaTEM-1B, sul1, and tet(A) genes, which mediated resistance to gentamicin, streptomycin/spectinomycin, streptomycin, ampicillin, sulfamethoxazole and tetracycline, respectively; and gyrA and parC mutations associated to ciprofloxacin resistance. Four isolates harbored plasmid types Incl1 and/or Col8282; two of them carried both plasmids. Salmonella Pathogenicity islands (SPI-1 to SPI-5) were highly conserved in the 19 sequenced Salmonella Kentucky isolates. Moreover, at least one Pathogenicity Island (SPI 1–4, SPI 9 or C63PI) was identified among the 229 public Salmonella Kentucky genomes. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that almost all Salmonella Kentucky ST198 isolates (17/19) stemmed from a single strain that has accumulated ciprofloxacin resistance-mediating mutations. A total of 8,104 different genes were identified in a heterogenic and still open Salmonella Kentucky ST198 pangenome. Considering the virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance genes detected in Salmonella Kentucky, the implications of this pathogen to public health and the epidemiological drivers for its dissemination must be investigated.
Predictors of Occurrence and 30-Day Mortality for Co-Infection of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Lv Dongmei , Zuo Yan , Wang Yuerong , Wang Zhongxin , Xu Yuanhong
Published: June 2022

Background

The phenomenon of co-infection with multiple carbapenem-resistant bacteria is growing, which pose a great challenge for infection control and treatment. This study aimed to analyze predictors of occurrence and 30-day mortality for carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii co-infection.

Methods

From June 2018 to June 2021, clinical data of 103 patients co-infected with carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) were collected from a tertiary teaching hospital in Anhui Province, China. The clinical characteristics and predictors of mortality were analyzed. Meanwhile, the bacterial isolates were characterized for drug susceptibility, multi-locus sequence typing, and drug resistance genes.

Results

The multivariate analysis revealed that fiberoptic bronchoscopy (p = 0.005, OR=2.72), repeat transfusions (p = 0.008, OR= 2.23) and exposure to tigecycline (p = 0.002, OR = 6.58) were independent risk factors for CRKP and CRAB co-infection. Neutrophil ≥11.9*109 (p = 0.035, adjusted HR = 3.12) and C-reactive protein ≥ 149 mg/L (p = 0.009, adjusted HR = 4.41) were found associated with 30-day mortality. Combined neutrophil with C-reactive protein could predict 30-day mortality, of which AUC value was 0.791 (95%CI: 0.661-0.921). KPC (46/51, 90.2%) was the most common carbapenemase in CRKP. 33 isolates of CRKP belong to ST11 (33/51, 64.7%), and three new ST types ST5882, ST5883, ST5885 were detected.

Conclusions

Invasive operations and antibiotics exposure can lead to CRKP and CRAB co-infection. Combined neutrophil with C-reactive protein could predict 30-day mortality.
Evidence for the Benefits of Melatonin in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Tobeiha Mohammad , Jafari Ameneh , Fadaei Sara , Mirazimi Seyed Mohammad Ali , Dashti Fatemeh , Amiri Atefeh , Khan Haroon , Asemi Zatollah , Reiter Russel J. , Hamblin Michael R. , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: June 2022

The pineal gland is a neuroendocrine gland which produces melatonin, a neuroendocrine hormone with critical physiological roles in the circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin has been shown to possess anti-oxidant activity and neuroprotective properties. Numerous studies have shown that melatonin has significant functions in cardiovascular disease, and may have anti-aging properties. The ability of melatonin to decrease primary hypertension needs to be more extensively evaluated. Melatonin has shown significant benefits in reducing cardiac pathology, and preventing the death of cardiac muscle in response to ischemia-reperfusion in rodent species. Moreover, melatonin may also prevent the hypertrophy of the heart muscle under some circumstances, which in turn would lessen the development of heart failure. Several currently used conventional drugs show cardiotoxicity as an adverse effect. Recent rodent studies have shown that melatonin acts as an anti-oxidant and is effective in suppressing heart damage mediated by pharmacologic drugs. Therefore, melatonin has been shown to have cardioprotective activity in multiple animal and human studies. Herein, we summarize the most established benefits of melatonin in the cardiovascular system with a focus on the molecular mechanisms of action.
Assessment and Treatment for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction by Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Zhan Junzhen , Zhong Longhe , Wu Juefei
Published: June 2022

With growing evidence in clinical practice, the understanding of coronary syndromes has gradually evolved out of focusing on the well-established link between stenosis of epicardial coronary artery and myocardial ischemia to the structural and functional abnormalities at the level of coronary microcirculation, known as coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). CMD encompasses several pathophysiological mechanisms of coronary microcirculation and is considered as an important cause of myocardial ischemia in patients with angina symptoms without obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). As a result of growing knowledge of the understanding of CMD assessed by multiple non-invasive modalities, CMD has also been found to be involved in other cardiovascular diseases, including primary cardiomyopathies as well as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In the past 2 decades, almost all the imaging modalities have been used to non-invasively quantify myocardial blood flow (MBF) and promote a better understanding of CMD. Myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) is a breakthrough as a non-invasive technique, which enables assessment of myocardial perfusion and quantification of MBF, exhibiting promising diagnostic performances that were comparable to other non-invasive techniques. With unique advantages over other non-invasive techniques, MCE has gradually developed into a novel modality for assessment of the coronary microvasculature, which may provide novel insights into the pathophysiological role of CMD in different clinical conditions. Moreover, the sonothrombolysis and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) will offer the opportunity to extend the use of contrast ultrasound theragnostics.
Markers of Atrial Cardiopathy in Severe Embolic Strokes of Undetermined Source
Authors: Acampa Maurizio , Cartocci Alessandra , Domenichelli Carlo , Tassi Rossana , Guideri Francesca , Lazzerini Pietro Enea , Martini Giuseppe
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose

The current definition of embolic strokes of undetermined source (ESUS) seems to be too broad, including strokes due to heterogeneous mechanisms, such as atrial cardiopathy and other occult cardiac conditions, aortic arch plaques, and non-stenosing atherosclerosis, that can be differently associated with clinical stroke severity at the time of presentation. The aim of our study was to assess the possible association between neurological deficit severity and presence of markers of atrial cardiopathy in ESUS.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of a cohort of 226 ESUS patients (105 M, 121 F), that were divided into two groups according to the severity of neurological deficit (99 mild strokes with NIHSS ≤ 5 and 127 severe strokes with NIHSS >5). The following indices of atrial cardiopathy were evaluated: P wave dispersion, P wave max, P wave min, P wave mean, P wave index, P wave axis, left atrial size.

Results

Patients with severe ESUS were significantly older (74 ± 12 vs. 67 ± 14 years, P < 0.001) and female sex was prevalent (67 vs. 36%, P > 0.001); they had higher values of P-wave-dispersion (51 ± 14 vs. 46 ± 13, P = 0.01), P-wave-max (131 ± 20 vs. 125 ± 15 ms, P = 0.01), P-wave-index (16 ± 5 vs. 15 ± 5 ms, P = 0.01), left atrial size (20 ± 6 vs. 18 ± 4 cm2, P = 0.01), left atrial volume index (31 ± 14 vs. 27 ± 11 ml/m2, P = 0.04), in comparison with mild ESUS. An abnormal P wave axis was detected more frequently in severe ESUS (21 vs. 9%, P = 0.01). Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression showed that age (OR = 1.21 for each 5-year increase, 95% CI 1.09–1.35), sex (OR = 3.24 for female sex, 95% CI 1.82–5.76) and PWD (OR = 1.32 for each 10-ms increase, 95% CI 1.07–1.64) were the best subset of associated variables for severe ESUS.

Conclusions

Our findings shed light on specific clinical characteristics of severe ESUS including the presence of atrial cardiopathy that could play a pathogenic role in this subgroup of patients. Searching for atrial fibrillation in these patients is especially important to perform the most appropriate therapy.
Effects of ω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Coronary Atherosclerosis and Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gao Zheng , Zhang Dewen , Yan Xiaocan , Shi Hekai , Xian Xiaohui
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose

Multiple guidelines suggest the ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) help to prevent major vascular events of coronary heart disease (CHD), but the data on large trials of ω-3 fatty acids are controversial. We reviewed the available evidence to determine the effect of ω-3 PUFAs on coronary atherosclerosis.

Materials and Methods

Literature were from online databases. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational studies were acceptable. Quantitative data synthesis was conducted using R version 4.1.2. Each outcome was calculated using standardized mean difference (SMD) in a random-effect model. Sensitivity analysis was conducted for each outcome. A total of 21 RCTs and 1 observational study with 2,277 participants were included.

Results

Meta-analysis indicated a benefit of ω-3 PUFAs on coronary atherosclerosis, namely, (1) ω-3 PUFAs can reduce the atherosclerotic plaque volume (SMD −0.18; 95% CI −0.31 to −0.05); (2) ω-3 PUFAs can help reduce the loss of the diameter of the narrowest segments of coronary arteries in patients with CHD (SMD 0.29; 95% CI, 0.05–0.53); (3) ω-3 PUFAs do not have significant effect on volume of lipid plaque in coronary arteries (SMD −1.18; 95% CI −2.95 to 0.58), volume of fiber plaque (SMD 0.26; 95% CI −0.81 to 1.33), and calcified plaque (SMD 0.17; 95% CI −0.55 to 0.89); and (4) ω-3 PUFAs had no significant effect on endothelial inflammatory factors in peripheral blood.

Conclusions

We confirmed that ω-3 PUFAs benefit patients with CHD by reducing the progression of coronary atherosclerosis. We indicated that the benefits were not caused by reducing endothelial inflammations of coronary arteries.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021285139, identifier: CRD42021285139.
Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Patients on SGLT2 Inhibitors Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Interventions: A Propensity-Matched Analysis
Authors: Hua Rui , Ding Ning , Guo Hanqing , Wu Yue , Yuan Zuyi , Li Ting
Published: June 2022

Background

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a common complication of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Data regarding the influence of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor on the CI-AKI incidence and renal outcomes of patients undergoing PCI are limited. This study aimed to examine the real-world risk of CI-AKI in SGLT2 inhibitor users undergoing PCI.

Methods

We used longitudinal data from the medical records of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University. We selected SGLT inhibitor users and nonusers [patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) without SGLT2 inhibitor prescription] undergoing PCI. We determined CI-AKI by the ESUR (European Society of Urogenital Radiology, AKIESUR) and KDIGO definition (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes, AKIKDIGO). We performed 1:1 nearest-neighbor propensity matching and calculated unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) and adjusted ORs (aORs; accounting for covariates poorly balanced) for AKI in primary and sensitivity analyses. We compared the renal function indicators in users and nonusers at 24, 48, and 72 h post-PCI.

Results

We identified 242 SGLT2 inhibitor users and 242 nonusers in the cohort. The unadjusted ORs of CI-AKIESUR were 63% lower in users [OR: 0.37 (95% CI: 0.18–0.68); P = 0.01], which was unchanged [aOR: 0.37 (95% CI: 0.19–0.67); P < 0.01] post adjustment. These estimates did not qualitatively change across several sensitivity analyses. There was no significant difference in urea nitrogen, creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values between the two groups before PCI, and at 24 h, while the creatinine (48 and 72 h post-PCI) and CyC (24 and 48 h post-PCI) were significantly lower than those in the nonuser group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings do not suggest an increased risk of CI-AKI associated with SGLT2 inhibitor use in patients with CAD and T2D undergoing PCI.
Investigating Dissolved Organic Matter Dynamics in the Downstream Reaches of the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers Using Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Niloy Nahin Mostofa , Shammi Mashura , Haque Md. Morshedul , Tareq Shafi M.
Published: June 2022

The Ganges and the Brahmaputra, two major rivers in Bangladesh, contribute major loads of dissolved organic matter (DOM) into the Bay of Bengal. The composition, sources, availability, and seasonal heterogeneity of DOM in these two rivers are thus very important to know about the biogeochemical cycles, fate, and ecological and environmental aspects before discharge into the Bay of Bengal. In this study, DOM was characterized in the downstream reaches of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers before their confluence with each other. The concentration of dissolved oxygen decreased in the pre-monsoon and monsoon in both rivers due to the increased decomposition and oxidation of rainfall-washed substances and thus made the water unsuitable for drinking. The amount of total coliform also made the water of both rivers unsuitable for drinking, recreational, and irrigation purposes. In total, four DOM components (one humic, one detergent-, and two protein-like) in the Ganges River and five DOM components (three humic- and two protein-like) in the Brahmaputra River were identified at their downstream reaches using fluorescence spectroscopy, three-dimensional excitation emission matrix (EEM) measurement, and parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC). The abundances of DOM components were higher in the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons than in the post-monsoon season. Protein-like components contributed the most in two rivers. DOM was obtained mostly from terrestrial sources and was matured and less aromatic. This study also identifies that sewage water is the largest contributor to DOM in surface water, next to natural sources, and indicates the excessive anthropogenic activities in the river basins of Bangladesh.
Sedimentary Rock Magnetic Response to Holocene Environmental Instability in the Pearl River Delta
Authors: Wu Yi , Fu Shuqing , Xiong Haixian , Zong Yongqiang , Ouyang Tingping , Peng Shasha , Cai Jianxin , Han Yulin , Zhu Zhaoyu
Published: June 2022

Located on the northern coast of the South China Sea, the densely populated Pearl River Delta has experienced the combined effects of sea-level change, monsoon-driven discharge, and especially human activity, since the late Holocene. However, how these factors have regulated the regional environmental and sedimentary evolution remains unclear. To better understand these processes, we conducted a high-resolution rock magnetic investigation of the Holocene sediments of core DS01, drilled in the vicinity of the West River channel in the head area of the Pearl River deltaic plain. The magnetic grain-size proxy of the ARM/κlf ratio (the ratio of anhysteretic remanent magnetization to low-field magnetic susceptibility) indicates a long-term fining trend of the magnetite grain size, which may be a response to an increase in the weathering intensity in the Asian monsoon region during the Holocene. An interval with an enhanced concentration of magnetic minerals (mainly magnetite and hematite) occurred during 7.7–4.8 kyr BP (calendar years before 1950), coinciding with a period of delta progradation. During the marine transgression in the early Holocene, two similar intervals of magnetic enrichment may reflect regional hydrodynamic shifts associated with cooling events at ∼9.5–9.3 kyr BP and 8.2 kyr BP. The subsequent 4.2 kyr BP cooling event possibly induced a cold and dry environment in the sediment source area. From ∼800 yr BP onward, there was a major increase in the sedimentary magnetic mineral content, likely in response to intensified agricultural and industrial activities.
The Sedimentary Context of El Kherba Early Pleistocene Oldowan Site, Algeria: Sediment and Soil Micromorphology Studies
Authors: Abdessadok Salah , Sahnouni Mohamed , Harichane Zoheir , Mazouni Nacim , Chelli Cheheb Razika , Mouhoubi Yasmine , Chibane Saloua , Pérez-González Alfredo
Published: June 2022

A comprehensive investigation is conducted on the archeological sediments from the Early Pleistocene site of El Kherba (Algeria), involving sediment and soil micromorphology analyses. El Kherba yielded Oldowan stone tools associated with animal fossils from three archeological levels. The studies aim at assessing the sedimentary processes that acted in the burial of the archeological remains and at identifying microfacies in order to gain high-resolution paleoenvironmental information pertaining to early hominin behavioral activities at the site 1.8 million years ago. The data indicate that the archeological assemblages accumulated in sediments with fine-grained particles, primarily silt and clay of massive structure, in a floodplain landscape in a temperate climate in the lower part of the stratigraphy and a gradual change from humid to arid environment in the upper part. These results are also supported by taphonomic and isotope studies carried out previously on the site.
Numerical Simulation of Wind-Driven Rain Based on the Eulerian Model
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Zhou Bo
Published: June 2022

The wind-driven rain model based on the Eulerian multiphase model is the most widely used in engineering applications of green buildings. In this study, a real-world case of wind-driven rain was simulated using a wind-driven rain solver based on the Eulerian multiphase model developed by OpenFOAM. Separation of flow was observed at the front edges of the top of the building in the numerical simulation results, and the separated flow lines reconnected in the middle region of the roof. This type of corner flow with separation produces an accelerated horizontal airflow and increases the catch ratio; hence, there is often a larger catch ratio at the windward facades near the roof. The simulation results show that the Eulerian model used in this study possesses adequate capability and accuracy for wind-driven rain simulation.
Adipose Tissue Myeloid-Lineage Neuroimmune Cells Express Genes Important for Neural Plasticity and Regulate Adipose Innervation
Authors: Blaszkiewicz Magdalena , Gunsch Gilian , Willows Jake W. , Gardner Miranda L. , Sepeda Jesse A. , Sas Andrew R. , Townsend Kristy L.
Published: June 2022

Peripheral nerves allow a bidirectional communication between brain and adipose tissues, and many studies have clearly demonstrated that a loss of the adipose nerve supply results in tissue dysfunction and metabolic dysregulation. Neuroimmune cells closely associate with nerves in many tissues, including subcutaneous white adipose tissue (scWAT). However, in scWAT, their functions beyond degrading norepinephrine in an obese state remain largely unexplored. We previously reported that a myeloid-lineage knockout (KO) of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) resulted in decreased innervation of scWAT, accompanied by an inability to brown scWAT after cold stimulation, and increased adiposity after a high-fat diet. These data underscored that adipose tissue neuroimmune cells support the peripheral nerve supply to adipose and impact the tissue’s metabolic functions. We also reported that a subset of myeloid-lineage monocyte/macrophages (Ly6c+CCR2+Cx3cr1+) is recruited to scWAT in response to cold, a process known to increase neurite density in adipose and promote metabolically healthy processes. These cold-induced neuroimmune cells (CINCs) also expressed BDNF. Here we performed RNAseq on CINCs from cold-exposed and room temperature-housed mice, which revealed a striking and coordinated differential expression of numerous genes involved in neuronal function, including neurotrophin signaling and axonal guidance, further supporting that CINCs fulfill a nerve-supporting role in adipose. The increased expression of leukocyte transendothelial migration genes in cold-stimulated CINCs also confirms prior evidence that they are recruited to scWAT and are not tissue resident. We now provide whole-depot imaging of scWAT from LysM-BDNF KO mice, revealing a striking reduction of innervation across the depot fitting with their reduced energy expenditure phenotype. By contrast, Cx3cr1-BDNF KO mice (a macrophage subset of LysM+ cells) exhibited increased thermogenesis and energy expenditure, with compensatory increased food intake and no change in adiposity or body weight. While these KO mice also exhibit a significantly reduced innervation of scWAT, especially around the subiliac lymph node, they displayed an increase in small fiber sympathetic neurite branching, which may underlie their increased thermogenesis. We propose a homeostatic role of scWAT myeloid-lineage neuroimmune cells together in nerve maintenance and neuro-adipose regulation of energy expenditure.
Prognostic Value of Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio (TG/HDL-C) in IgA Nephropathy Patients
Authors: Pei Gaiqin , Qin Aiya , Dong Lingqiu , Wang Siqing , Liu Xiang , Yang Dandan , Tan Jiaxing , Zhou Xiaoyuan , Tang Yi , Qin Wei
Published: June 2022

Background

The triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio is an easy-to-use atherogenic and prognostic marker which has attracted increasing attention these days. However, whether TG/HDL-C correlate with outcomes in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patients remains unknown. To clarify these issues, we conducted this study.

Methods

A total of 1146 patients from West China Hospital of Sichuan University were retrospectively analysed between 2008 and 2018.The demographic, clinical and pathological data of all patients at the time of biopsy were collected. Then, patients were divided into the high TG/HDL group (TG/HDL ≥ 1.495, N=382) and the low TG/HDL group (TG/HDL-C < 1.495, N=764) based on the optimal cut-off value of the TG/HDL-C using receive operating curve. Cox proportional hazard models and Kaplan–Meier curves were used to evaluate the renal outcomes of IgAN.

Results

The median age of the patients was 33 (26-42) years, and 44.5% were men. By correlation analysis, we found that the TG/HDL-C ratio was negatively correlated with the eGFR (r = 0.250, P < 0.001) but positively correlated with proteinuria (r = 0.230, P< 0.001), BMI (r=0.380, P<0.001) and serum uric (r =0.308, P< 0.001). Patients with a higher TG/HDL-C ratio tended to have hypertension [odds ratio (OR), 1.987; 95% CI, 1.527-2.587; P<0.001] and more severe pathologic lesions with tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (OR, 1.610; 95% CI, 1.203-2.154; P=0.001). During a median follow-up period of 54.1 (35.6-73.2) months, a high TG/HDL ratio was strongly associated with worse renal survival in IgAN patients (log-rank: P <0.001). Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that a high TG/HDL-C ratio (HR 1.775, 95% CI 1.056-2.798; P=0.029) was an independent predictive marker to ESRD.

Conclusion

In this study, we addressed the importance of TG/HDL-C ratio as a predictive marker for IgAN progression.
Progress in Simulation Studies of Insulin Structure and Function
Authors: Gorai Biswajit , Vashisth Harish
Published: June 2022

Insulin is a peptide hormone known for chiefly regulating glucose level in blood among several other metabolic processes. Insulin remains the most effective drug for treating diabetes mellitus. Insulin is synthesized in the pancreatic β-cells where it exists in a compact hexameric architecture although its biologically active form is monomeric. Insulin exhibits a sequence of conformational variations during the transition from the hexamer state to its biologically-active monomer state. The structural transitions and the mechanism of action of insulin have been investigated using several experimental and computational methods. This review primarily highlights the contributions of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in elucidating the atomic-level details of conformational dynamics in insulin, where the structure of the hormone has been probed as a monomer, dimer, and hexamer. The effect of solvent, pH, temperature, and pressure have been probed at the microscopic scale. Given the focus of this review on the structure of the hormone, simulation studies involving interactions between the hormone and its receptor are only briefly highlighted, and studies on other related peptides (e.g., insulin-like growth factors) are not discussed. However, the review highlights conformational dynamics underlying the activities of reported insulin analogs and mimetics. The future prospects for computational methods in developing promising synthetic insulin analogs are also briefly highlighted.
Association of Plasma Neurofilament Light Chain With Glycaemic Control and Insulin Resistance in Middle-Aged Adults
Authors: Thota Rohith N. , Chatterjee Pratishtha , Pedrini Steve , Hone Eugene , Ferguson Jessica J. A. , Garg Manohar L. , Martins Ralph N.
Published: June 2022

Aims

This study aimed to determine the association of plasma neurofilament light (NfL), a marker of neurodegeneration, with diabetes status and glycaemic parameters in people with normal glycaemia (NG), pre-diabetes (PD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Clinical and descriptive data for the diagnostic groups, NG (n=30), PD (n=48) and T2D (n=29), aged between 40 and 75 years were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Plasma NfL levels were analyzed using the ultra-sensitive single-molecule array (Simoa) platform.

Results

A positive correlation was evident between plasma NfL and fasting glucose (r = 0.2824; p = 0.0032). Plasma NfL levels were not correlated with fasting insulin and insulin resistance. Plasma Nfl levels were significantly different across the diabetes groups (T2D >PD >NG, p=0.0046). Post-hoc analysis indicated significantly higher plasma NfL levels in the T2D [12.4 (5.21) pg/mL] group than in the PD [10.2 (4.13) pg/mL] and NG [8.37 (5.65) pg/mL] groups. The relationship between diabetes status and NfL remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, HOMA-IR and physical activity (adjusted r2 = 0.271, p = 0.035).

Conclusions

These results show biomarker evidence of neurodegeneration in adults at risk or with T2D. Larger sample size and longitudinal analysis are required to better understand the application of NfL in people with risk and overt T2D.
Addressing Non-response Bias in Urban Forest Inventories: An Estimation Approach
Authors: Westfall James A. , Edgar Christopher B.
Published: June 2022

When conducting urban forest inventories, complete or partial inaccessibility of sample plots results in non-response for a portion of the selected sample. Unfortunately, the non-response is rarely random and thus a potential bias may be imparted in the sample and associated data analyses. In this study, results from an alternative estimation method that employs response homogeneity groups (RHGs) appeared to be more robust to non-random non-response when compared to those of a standard estimation method. Across the six cities studied, the total non-response rates varied from 8.0 to 20.4%. Percent differences between the two methods in estimated number of trees ranged from −0.7 to 12.6%; whereas 1.4 to 14.8% differences were found for tree biomass density. While these differences only approximate the amount of non-response bias present under standard estimation methods, there is a clear indication that misleading results may be obtained if non-response bias is not adequately addressed. By implementing methods that mitigate potential non-response bias, urban forest inventory practitioners would increase the reliability of information used by city planners to make effective management and policy decisions.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Soil Quality Indicators in Eucalyptus genotypes With Different Drought Tolerance Levels
Authors: Lopes Bruna Andreia de Bacco , Silva Antonio Marcos Miranda , Santana Maiele Cintra , Feiler Henrique Petry , Pereira Arthur Prudêncio de Araújo , Teixeira Marcos Ferreira , Araújo Victor Lucas Vieira Prudêncio de , Ávila Patrícia Andressa de , Gonçalves José Leonardo de Moraes , Staunton Siobhan , Cardoso Elke Jurandy Bran Nogueira
Published: June 2022

Silviculture has great importance worldwide, and the use of Eucalyptus species, which account for 75% of the local planted forest in Brazil, is one of the factors that contributes to the success of this activity in the country. Despite its adaptability, the yield of Eucalyptus is often affected by climate change, particularly water deficiency. Plants have developed strategies to mitigate water stress, for example, through their association with mycorrhizal fungi. The genus Eucalyptus, particularly in the plant domain, establishes symbioses with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMF). The influence of Eucalyptus species on AMF and soil quality indicators is not well understood. Our aim was to conduct a preliminary evaluation of the various responses of soil AMF communities and soil nutrient dynamics in the presence of Eucalyptus species with different degrees of drought tolerance. A field experiment was established containing six Eucalyptus species, E. brassiana, E. camaldulensis, E. citriodora, E. cloeziana, E. grandis, and E. urophylla, all of which were planted in large plots. Soil and root samples were taken when the plants were 1.7 and 2.2 years old. We found that Eucalyptus species with low (E. grandis and E. urophylla) and intermediate drought tolerance (E. citriodora and E. cloeziana) showed stronger correlations with the AMF community than Eucalyptus species with high drought tolerance (E. brassiana and E. camaldulensis). Differences were also found between Eucalyptus species for AMF spore numbers and root colonization percentages, which was most evident for E. urophylla. The microbiological attributes found to be most responsive to Eucalyptus species were soil enzyme activities, AMF spore numbers, root colonization percentages, and fungal abundance. Soil organic carbon, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and iron were the main chemical drivers related to the soil AMF community structure in the presence of E. brassiana.