bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of different small molecular weight alcohols for sustaining sulfidogenic bioreactors maintained at moderately low pH
Authors: Santos Ana Laura , Johnson D. Barrie
Published: August 2022

Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) catalyse the dissimilatory reduction of sulfate to hydrogen sulfide using a wide range of small molecular weight organic compounds, and hydrogen, as electron donors. Here we report the effects of different combinations of small molecular weight alcohols on the performance and bacterial composition of a moderately low pH sulfidogenic bioreactor (pH 4.0–5.5) operated at 35°C in continuous flow mode. Ethanol alone and methanol or ethanol used in combination with glycerol were evaluated based on their equivalent amounts of carbon. Although evidenced that methanol was utilised as electron donor to fuel sulfidogenesis at pH 5.5, rates of sulfate reduction/sulfide production were negatively impacted when this alcohol was first introduced to the system, though these rates increased in subsequent phases as a result of adaptation of the microbial community. Further increased dosage of methanol again caused rates of sulfidogenesis to decrease. Methanol addition resulted in perturbations of the bioreactor microbial community, and species not previously detected were present in relatively large abundance, including the sulfate-reducer Desulfovibrio desulfuricans. Ethanol utilization was evidenced by the increase in rates of sulfidogenesis as the dosage of ethanol increased, with rates being highest when the bioreactor was fed with ethanol alone. Concentrations of acetate in the effluent liquor also increased (up to 8 mM) as a result of incomplete oxidation of ethanol. This alcohol continued to be used as the electron donor for sulfate reduction when the bioreactor pH was decreased incrementally (to pH 4.0), but rates of sulfidogenesis decreased. The relative abundance of Dv. desulfuricans diminished as the bioreactor pH was lowered, while that of the acidophilic Firmicute Desulfosporosinus acididurans increased. This study has shown that all three alcohols can be used to fuel microbial sulfidogenesis in moderately acidic liquors, though the cost-effectiveness, availability and toxicity to the microbial community will dictate the choice of substrate.
A minimally manipulated preservation and virus inactivation method for amnion/chorion
Authors: Zhang Shang , Gao Lichang , Wang Pin , Ma Yuyan , Wang Xiaoliang , Wen Jie , Cheng Yu , Liu Changlin , Zhang Chunxia , Liu Changfeng , Yan Yongli , Zhao Chengru
Published: August 2022

Allogeneic amnion tissues have been widely used in tissue repair and regeneration, especially a remarkable trend of clinical uses in chronic wound repair. The virus inactivation procedures are necessary and required to be verified for the clinical use and approval of biological products. Cobalt-60 (Co-60) or electron-beam (e-beam) is the common procedure for virus and bacterial reduction, but the excessive dose of irradiation was reported to be harmful to biological products. Herein, we present a riboflavin (RB)-ultraviolet light (UV) method for virus inactivation of amnion and chorion tissues. We used the standard in vitro limiting dilution assay to test the viral reduction capacity of the RB-UV method on amnion or chorion tissues loaded with four types of model viruses. We found RB-UV was a very effective procedure for inactivating viruses of amnion and chorion tissues, which could be used as a complementary method to Co-60 irradiation. In addition, we also screened the washing solutions and drying methods for the retention of growth factors.
Medical high-entropy alloy: Outstanding mechanical properties and superb biological compatibility
Authors: Liu Changxi , Yang Chengliang , Liu Jia , Tang Yujin , Lin Zhengjie , Li Long , Liang Hai , Lu Weijie , Wang Liqiang
Published: August 2022

Medical metal implants are required to have excellent mechanical properties and high biocompatibility to handle the complex human environment, which is a challenge that has always existed for traditional medical metal materials. Compared to traditional medical alloys, high entropy alloys (HEAs) have a higher design freedom to allow them to carry more medical abilities to suit the human service environment, such as low elastic modulus, high biocompatible elements, potential shape memory capability. In recent years, many studies have pointed out that bio-HEAs, as an emerging medical alloy, has reached or even surpassed traditional medical alloys in various medical properties. In this review, we summarized the recent reports on novel bio-HEAs for medical implants and divide them into two groups according the properties, namely mechanical properties and biocompatibility. These new bio-HEAs are considered hallmarks of a historic shift representative of a new medical revolution.
Biomechanical evaluation of a short-rod technique for lumbar fixation surgery
Authors: Huang Ze-Bin , Nie Mao-Dan , Zhang Ning-Ze , Liu Shu , Yuan Jia-Bin , Lin Xu-Miao , Cheng Cheng-Kung , Shi Zhi-Cai , Mao Ning-Fang
Published: August 2022

Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the stability and instrument-related complications associated with fixation of the lumbar spine using the Short-Rod (SR) technique.

Methods: Using finite element analysis, this study assessed the stability of a bilateral lumbar fixation system when inserting the pedicle screws at angles of 10°, 15°, and 20° to the endplate in the sagittal plane. Using the most stable construct with a screw angle, the model was then assessed with different rod lengths of 25, 30, 35, and 45 mm. The optimal screw inclination angle and rod length were incorporated into the SR model and compared against traditional parallel screw insertion (pedicle screws in parallel to the endplate, PPS) in terms of the stability and risk of instrument-related complications. The following parameters were evaluated using the validated L4–L5 lumbar finite element model: axial stiffness, range of motion (ROM), stress on the endplate and facet joint, von-Mises stress on the contact surface between the screw and rod (CSSR), and screw displacement.

Results: The results showed that the SR model with a 15° screw inclination angle and 35 mm rod length was superior in terms of construct stability and risk of complications. Compared to the PPS model, the SR model had lower stiffness, lower ROM, less screw displacement, and lower stress on the facet cartilage, the CSSR, and screws. However, the SR model also suffered more stress on the endplate in flexion and lateral bending.

Conclusion: The SR technique with a 15° screw inclination and 35 mm rod length offers good lumbar stability with a low risk of instrument-related complications.
Microalgae growth in ultra-thin steady-state continuous photobioreactors: assessing self-shading effects
Authors: Saccardo Alberto , Bezzo Fabrizio , Sforza Eleonora
Published: August 2022

To disclose the net effect of light on microalgal growth in photobioreactors, self-shading and mixing-induced light–dark cycles must be minimized and discerned from the transient phenomena of acclimation. In this work, we performed experiments of continuous microalgal cultivation in small-scale photobioreactors with different thicknesses (from 2 to 35 mm): working at a steady state allowed us to describe the effect of light after acclimation, while the geometry of the reactor was adjusted to find the threshold light path that can discriminate different phenomena. Experiments showed an increased inhibition under smaller culture light paths, suggesting a strong shading effect at thicknesses higher than 8 mm where mixing-induced light–dark cycles may occur. A Haldane-like model was applied and kinetic parameters retrieved, showing possible issues in the scalability of experimental results at different light paths if mixing-induced light–dark cycles are not considered. To further highlight the influence of mixing cycles, we proposed an analogy between small-scale operations with continuous light and PBR operations with pulsed light, with the computation of characteristic parameters from pulsed-light microalgae growth mathematical modeling.
Long-term culture of patient-derived cardiac organoids recapitulated Duchenne muscular dystrophy cardiomyopathy and disease progression
Authors: Marini Vittoria , Marino Fabiola , Aliberti Flaminia , Giarratana Nefele , Pozzo Enrico , Duelen Robin , Cortés Calabuig Álvaro , La Rovere Rita , Vervliet Tim , Torella Daniele , Bultynck Geert , Sampaolesi Maurilio , Chai Yoke Chin
Published: August 2022

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked neuromuscular disease which to date is incurable. The major cause of death is dilated cardiomyopathy however, its pathogenesis is unclear as existing cellular and animal models do not fully recapitulate the human disease phenotypes. In this study, we generated cardiac organoids from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (DMD-COs) and isogenic-corrected controls (DMD-Iso-COs) and studied if DMD-related cardiomyopathy and disease progression occur in the organoids upon long-term culture (up to 93 days). Histological analysis showed that DMD-COs lack initial proliferative capacity, displayed a progressive loss of sarcoglycan localization and high stress in endoplasmic reticulum. Additionally, cardiomyocyte deterioration, fibrosis and aberrant adipogenesis were observed in DMD-COs over time. RNA sequencing analysis confirmed a distinct transcriptomic profile in DMD-COs which was associated with functional enrichment in hypertrophy/dilated cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, adipogenesis and fibrosis pathways. Moreover, five miRNAs were identified to be crucial in this dysregulated gene network. In conclusion, we generated patient-derived cardiac organoid model that displayed DMD-related cardiomyopathy and disease progression phenotypes in long-term culture. We envision the feasibility to develop a more complex, realistic and reliable in vitro 3D human cardiac-mimics to study DMD-related cardiomyopathies.
Taste receptors affect male reproduction by influencing steroid synthesis
Authors: Liu Wenjiao , Gong Ting , Shi Fangxiong , Xu Houqiang , Chen Xiang
Published: August 2022

For the male genetic materials to reach and fertilize the egg, spermatozoa must contend with numerous environmental changes in a complex and highly sophisticated process from generation in the testis, and maturation in the epididymis to capacitation and fertilization. Taste is an ancient chemical sense that has an essential role in the animal’s response to carbohydrates in the external environment and is involved in the body’s energy perception. In recent years, numerous studies have confirmed that taste signaling factors (taste receptor families 1, 2 and their downstream molecules, Gα and PLCβ2) are distributed in testes and epididymis tissues outside the oral cavity. Their functions are directly linked to spermatogenesis, maturation, and fertilization, which are potential targets for regulating male reproduction. However, the specific signaling mechanisms of the taste receptors during these processes remain unknown. Herein, we review published literature and experimental results from our group to establish the underlying signaling mechanism in which the taste receptor factors influence testosterone synthesis in the male reproduction.
Semiconductor quantum dots for photodynamic therapy: Recent advances
Authors: Uprety Bhawna , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: August 2022

Photodynamic therapy is a promising cancer treatment that induces apoptosis as a result of the interactions between light and a photosensitizing drug. Lately, the emergence of biocompatible nanoparticles has revolutionized the prospects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in clinical trials. Consequently, a lot of research is now being focused on developing non-toxic, biocompatible nanoparticle-based photosensitizers for effective cancer treatments using PDT. In this regard, semiconducting quantum dots have shown encouraging results. Quantum dots are artificial semiconducting nanocrystals with distinct chemical and physical properties. Their optical properties can be fine-tuned by varying their size, which usually ranges from 1 to 10 nm. They present many advantages over conventional photosensitizers, mainly their emission properties can be manipulated within the near IR region as opposed to the visible region by the former. Consequently, low intensity light can be used to penetrate deeper tissues owing to low scattering in the near IR region. Recently, successful reports on imaging and PDT of cancer using carbon (carbon, graphene based) and metallic (Cd based) based quantum dots are promising. This review aims to summarize the development and the status quo of quantum dots for cancer treatment.
The relationship between ignition and oxidation of molten magnesium alloys during the cooling process
Authors: Zhao Xinyi , Gu Tao , Zhang Haiyang , Wang Zeyu , Butt Hassaan Ahmad , Lei Yucheng
Published: August 2022

Ignition of magnesium alloys during casting processes limits their processability and applications. For identifying the ignition mechanism of magnesium alloys during solidification, a Mg-Al-Zn alloy was solidified with different cooling rates and pouring temperatures. The oxide scale morphologies and thicknesses were identified by SEM and energy dispersive spectrometer. Based on the experimental results, the oxidation kinetics and heat released were calculated and the relationship between oxidation and ignition was discussed in detail. The calculation results indicate that oxide rupture directly induces combustion of the melt. The rupture route of the oxide scale was determined to be buckling cracks according to the experimental and calculation results. Based on the buckling mechanism of the oxide scale, the ignition criterion during solidification was correlated to the pouring temperature, cooling rate and casting modulus. This work reveals the underlying relationship between ignition and casting process parameters, and it helps to develop new technology for inhibiting ignition of molten magnesium alloys.
Analysis of gene expression profile of peripheral blood in alveolar and cystic echinococcosis
Authors: Liu Lei , Chen Fan , Jiang Shan , Zhong Bo , Li Wei , Xu Kejun , Wang Qi , Wang Ying , Cao Jianping
Published: August 2022

RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) is a versatile, high-throughput technology that is being widely employed for screening differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in various diseases. Echinococcosis, a globally distributed zoonosis, has been reported to impose a heavy disease burden in pastoral areas of China. Herein we aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying echinococcosis. In this study, peripheral blood samples were collected from six patients with alveolar echinococcosis (AE), six patients with cystic echinococcosis (CE), and six healthy controls. RNA-Seq (mRNA) was performed to detect gene transcript and expression levels, and DEGs were subjected to bioinformatic analyses. In comparison with healthy controls, 492 DEGs (270 upregulated, 222 downregulated) were found in the AE group and 424 DEGs (170 upregulated, 254 downregulated) were found in the CE group (|log2 (fold change)| > 1 and P < 0.05). Further, 60 genes were upregulated and 39 were downregulated in both the AE and CE groups. Gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that DEGs were mainly involved in molecular functions, including extracellular space, extracellular region, organ and system development, and anatomical structure development. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed to depict the complex relationship between DEGs and interacting proteins.
Pleural thickening induced by Glaesserella parasuis infection was linked to increased collagen and elastin
Authors: Gong Huimin , Chen Liying , He Yanling , Hua Kexin , Ma Bin , Gao Yuan , Xu Xiaojuan , Hu Xueying , Jin Hui
Published: August 2022

Glaesserella parasuis is well-known for causing Glässer’s disease, which costs the worldwide swine industry millions of dollars each year. It has been reported the symptom of pleural thickening during Glässer’s disease but this symptom has received little attention. And there is no research on the elements which promote pleural thickening. In this study, pleural thickening was discovered to be associated with increased collagen fibers and elastic fibers. Furthermore, collagen-I and elastin were found to be up-regulated and concentrated in the pleura at the mRNA and protein levels following infection. To summarize, our findings add to the theoretical understanding of Glässer’s disease and provide strong support for further research into the pathogenic mechanism of Glaesserella parasuis and the program’s target treatment.
Associations between triglyceride-glucose index and different hypertension subtypes: A population-based study in China
Authors: Cai Qian , Xing Cathleen Y. , Zhu Jiang , Wang Ying , Lu Fanghong , Peng Jie
Published: August 2022

Background

Abnormal glycolipid metabolism plays a crucial role in hypertension. While an elevated triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index has been recognized as a risk factor for developing hypertension, the associations between the TyG index and different hypertension subtypes, namely, isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH), and systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH), remain unclear. This study was designed to investigate the associations between the TyG index and hypertension subtypes in a general Chinese population.

Materials and methods

In a sample of 16,793 participants from Shandong Province, China, multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between the TyG index and different hypertension subtypes. Loess smooth curves were fitted to visualize the trends. Stratified analyses were conducted to further assess the potential interactions in the associations between the TyG index and different hypertension subtypes.

Results

A higher TyG index was associated with an increased odds of having IDH (OR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.66–5.23) and SDH (OR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.33–2.49), whereas no apparent relationship was observed between TyG index and ISH. With respect to sex, the effect of TyG index on having IDH and SDH was significant in women, but not in men. Participants with lower lipid profiles and glucose levels demonstrated a stronger strength of association between the TyG index and IDH as compared with the TyG index-SDH association. Stratified analysis showed that participants with a higher TyG index were more than 3 times more likely to have IDH and SDH among persons aged 18–42 years. Significant interactions were observed between TyG index and sex, age, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the SDH group, and a significant interaction was also found between TyG index and body mass index (BMI) in the ISH group.

Conclusion

Triglyceride-glucose index may potentially serve as a novel indicator for IDH and SDH. Our findings could also inform the development and implementation of targeted screening for hypertension.
Combining electrocardiographic criteria for predicting acute total left main coronary artery occlusion
Authors: Liu Chunwei , Yang Fan , Hu Yuecheng , Zhang Jingxia , Li Ximing , Guo Zhigang , Liu Yin , Cong Hongliang
Published: August 2022

Background

Prediction of left main artery (LM) occlusion may contribute to the administration of early reperfusion. We sought to identify electrocardiographic (ECG) features associated with acute total LM occlusion and explore the relationship between ECG features and collateral circulation.

Methods

We retrospectively studied ECGs in 84 consecutive patients with LM occlusion between January 2001 and April 2022. The ECG findings in these patients were compared with those in 468 consecutive patients with LM subtotal occlusion and non-LM occlusion.

Results

Three main ECG patterns were described according to the characteristics of ST elevation (STE) in LM occlusion: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), STE in aVR with diffuse ST depression, and STE in both aVR and aVL. These ECG patterns were associated with different collateral filling territories. One-third STEMI in LM occlusion showed STE in the precordial leads including V1, while 2/3 STEMI showed STE in the precordial leads from V2 to V5 without STE in V1. The following ECG characteristics predicted LM occlusion: STE in both aVR and aVL; STE in I, aVL, and V2–V5 without V1; left anterior fascicular block (LAFB); right bundle branch block (RBBB) + LAFB; and prolongation of the QRS interval. The incidences of STE in aVR and STE in aVR and V1 were higher in LM subtotal occlusion than in LM occlusion. The combination of two different STE criteria (STE in aVR and aVL and STE in I, aVL, V2-V5 without V1) predicted LM occlusion with 62% sensitivity and 95% specificity. The combination of the STE criteria and fascicular block criteria (LAFB and LAFB + RBBB) further improved the specificity to 99% but reduced the sensitivity to 39%.

Conclusion

The combination of STE criteria predicted LM occlusion with high specificity and moderate sensitivity, and the addition of fascicular block criteria further improved the specificity with some loss of sensitivity.
Perspectives for Forkhead box transcription factors in diabetic cardiomyopathy: Their therapeutic potential and possible effects of salvianolic acids
Authors: Han Ronghui , Huang Hemeng , Xia Weiyi , Liu Jingjin , Luo Hui , Tang Jing , Xia Zhengyuan
Published: August 2022

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetic cardiovascular complications, which initially manifests as cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, dysfunctional remodeling, and diastolic dysfunction, followed by systolic dysfunction, and eventually end with acute heart failure. Molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological changes in diabetic hearts are complicated and multifactorial, including but not limited to insulin resistance, oxidative stress, lipotoxicity, cardiomyocytes apoptosis or autophagy, inflammatory response, and myocardial metabolic dysfunction. With the development of molecular biology technology, accumulating evidence illustrates that members of the class O of Forkhead box (FoxO) transcription factors are vital for maintaining cardiomyocyte metabolism and cell survival, and the functions of the FoxO family proteins can be modulated by a wide variety of post-translational modifications including phosphorylation, acetylation, ubiquitination, arginine methylation, and O-glycosylation. In this review, we highlight and summarize the most recent advances in two members of the FoxO family (predominately FoxO1 and FoxO3a) that are abundantly expressed in cardiac tissue and whose levels of gene and protein expressions change as DCM progresses, with the goal of providing valuable insights into the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiovascular complications and discussing their therapeutic potential and possible effects of salvianolic acids, a natural product.
Deep learning assessment of left ventricular hypertrophy based on electrocardiogram
Authors: Zhao Xiaoli , Huang Guifang , Wu Lin , Wang Min , He Xuemin , Wang Jyun-Rong , Zhou Bin , Liu Yong , Lin Yesheng , Liu Dinghui , Yu Xianguan , Liang Suzhen , Tian Borui , Liu Linxiao , Chen Yanming , Qiu Shuhong , Xie Xujing , Han Lanqing , Qian Xiaoxian
Published: August 2022

Background

Current electrocardiogram (ECG) criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) have low sensitivity. Deep learning (DL) techniques have been widely used to detect cardiac diseases due to its ability of automatic feature extraction of ECG. However, DL was rarely applied in LVH diagnosis. Our study aimed to construct a DL model for rapid and effective detection of LVH using 12-lead ECG.

Methods

We built a DL model based on convolutional neural network-long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) to detect LVH using 12-lead ECG. The echocardiogram and ECG of 1,863 patients obtained within 1 week after hospital admission were analyzed. Patients were evenly allocated into 3 sets at 3:1:1 ratio: the training set (n = 1,120), the validation set (n = 371) and the test set 1 (n = 372). In addition, we recruited 453 hospitalized patients into the internal test set 2. Different DL model of each subgroup was developed according to gender and relative wall thickness (RWT).

Results

The LVH was predicted by the CNN-LSTM model with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.62 (sensitivity 68%, specificity 57%) in the test set 1, which outperformed Cornell voltage criteria (AUC: 0.57, sensitivity 48%, specificity 72%) and Sokolow-Lyon voltage (AUC: 0.51, sensitivity 14%, specificity 96%). In the internal test set 2, the CNN-LSTM model had a stable performance in predicting LVH with an AUC of 0.59 (sensitivity 65%, specificity 57%). In the subgroup analysis, the CNN-LSTM model predicted LVH by 12-lead ECG with an AUC of 0.66 (sensitivity 72%, specificity 60%) for male patients, which performed better than that for female patients (AUC: 0.59, sensitivity 50%, specificity 71%).

Conclusion

Our study established a CNN-LSTM model to diagnose LVH by 12-lead ECG with higher sensitivity than current ECG diagnostic criteria. This CNN-LSTM model may be a simple and effective screening tool of LVH.
The clinical outcomes of reni-angiotensin system inhibitors for patients after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Shuai , Lin Xiaoxiao , Guan Yihong , Huang Jinyu
Published: August 2022

Aims

The objective of our systematic reviews and meta-analysis is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of RAS inhibitors for patients after TAVR.

Methods and results

We performed a comprehensive search for Embase, Pubmed, and Cochrane databases from inception to May 1, 2022. The analysis of all outcomes was performed using the random-effects model. In total, 7 articles with a total of 32,585 patients (RAS inhibitor,N= 14,871; Controls,N= 17,714) were included in our study. There was a significantly lower rates of all-cause mortality (RR = 0.76, 95%Cl = 0.68 to 0.86,P< 0.01), cardiovascular death (RR = 0.66, 95%Cl = 0.59–0.74,P< 0.01) and HF readmission (RR = 0.87, 95%Cl = 0.80–0.94,P< 0.01) in patients with RAS inhibitors compared with controls. Patients with RAS inhibitors also had lower rates of all-cause mortality (RR = 0.82, 95%Cl = 0.76–0.89,P< 0.01) and cardiovascular death (RR = 0.73, 95%Cl, 0.62–0.85,P< 0.01) after propensity matching.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our systematic reviews and meta-analysis demonstrated that RAS inhibitors could improve the clinical outcomes for patients after TAVR. Further large and high-quality trials should be conducted to support the use of RAS inhibitors for patients after TAVR.
Redistribution of adipose tissue is associated with left atrial remodeling and dysfunction in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chen Qian , Chen Xiuzhen , Wang Jiafu , Zhong Junlin , Zhang Hui , Wu Bingyuan , Zheng Zhenda , Xie Xujing , Zhu Jieming , Tang Xixiang , Li Suhua
Published: August 2022

Objective

Adipose tissue is recognized as a crucial regulator of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the effect of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) on the pathophysiology of AF might be different from that of other adipose tissues. The purpose of this study was to explore the distribution features of different adipose tissues in AF patients and their relationships with left atrial (LA) remodeling and function.

Methods

A total of 205 participants (including 112 AF and 93 non-AF patients) were recruited. Color doppler ultrasound was used to measure the thickness of subcutaneous, extraperitoneal, and intra-abdominal adipose tissue. Cardiac CT scan was performed to measure the mean thickness of EAT surrounding the whole heart (total-EAT) and specific regions, including left atrium (LA-EAT), left ventricle, right ventricle, interventricular groove, and atrioventricular groove. LA anatomical remodeling and function were measured by echocardiography, while electrical remodeling was evaluated by P-wave duration and dispersion using Electrocardiography (obtained after cardioversion or ablation in AF patients). Relationship between the thickness of different adipose tissues and LA remodeling and function was analyzed.

Results

The thickness of subcutaneous, extraperitoneal, and intra-abdominal adipose tissue was similar between AF and non-AF patients, and had no or only weak association with LA remodeling and dysfunction. However, compared to non-AF participants, total-EAT thickness significantly increased in both paroxysmal and persistent AF patients (non-AF vs. paroxysmal AF vs. persistent AF: 6.31 ± 0.63 mm vs. 6.76 ± 0.79 mm vs. 7.01 ± 1.18 mm, P < 0.001), which was positively correlated with the LA size and P-wave duration and dispersion, and negatively correlated with LA ejection fraction and peak strain rate. More interestingly, EAT thickness in AF patients did not increase uniformly in different regions of the heart. Compared to EAT surrounding the other regions, LA-EAT was found to accumulate more greatly, and had a closer relationship to LA remodeling and dysfunction. Multivariate logistic regression analysis also showed that LA-EAT was significantly correlated with the presence of AF (OR = 4.781; 95% CI 2.589–8.831, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Rather than other adipose tissues, accumulation and redistribution of EAT, especially surrounding the LA, is associated with LA remodeling and dysfunction in AF patients.
Oxidative stress: An essential factor in the process of arteriovenous fistula failure
Authors: Hu Ke , Guo Yi , Li Yuxuan , Lu Chanjun , Cai Chuanqi , Zhou Shunchang , Ke Zunxiang , Li Yiqing , Wang Weici
Published: August 2022

For more than half a century, arteriovenous fistula (AVFs) has been recognized as a lifeline for patients requiring hemodialysis (HD). With its higher long-term patency rate and lower probability of complications, AVF is strongly recommended by guidelines in different areas as the first choice for vascular access for HD patients, and its proportion of application is gradually increasing. Despite technological improvements and advances in the standards of postoperative care, many deficiencies are still encountered in the use of AVF related to its high incidence of failure due to unsuccessful maturation to adequately support HD and the development of neointimal hyperplasia (NIH), which narrows the AVF lumen. AVF failure is linked to the activation and migration of vascular cells and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, where complex interactions between cytokines, adhesion molecules, and inflammatory mediators lead to poor adaptive remodeling. Oxidative stress also plays a vital role in AVF failure, and a growing amount of data suggest a link between AVF failure and oxidative stress. In this review, we summarize the present understanding of the pathophysiology of AVF failure. Furthermore, we focus on the relation between oxidative stress and AVF dysfunction. Finally, we discuss potential therapies for addressing AVF failure based on targeting oxidative stress.
Revisiting the role of IL-1 signaling in the development of apical periodontitis
Authors: Tazawa Kento , Azuma Presse Mariane Maffei , Furusho Hisako , Stashenko Philip , Sasaki Hajime
Published: August 2022

Apical periodontitis (AP) develops as a result of an immune response to pulpal bacterial infection, and various cytokines are involved in the pathogenesis of AP, with Interleukin (IL)-1 being considered a key cytokine. The role of IL-1 in the pathogenesis of AP has been well studied. It is known that IL-1 expression in periapical lesions correlates closely with the development of AP. IL-1 is a potent bone-resorptive cytokine that induces osteoclast formation and activation. Hence, inhibiting its signaling with IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) results in a reduction in periapical lesion size. On the other hand, IL-1 is also a central cytokine that combats bacterial infection by activating innate immune responses. Therefore, a complete loss of IL-1 signaling leads to a failure to limit bacterial dissemination and consequently exacerbates AP. In vivo, IL-1 expression is tightly regulated and its signaling is modulated to optimize the immune response. Obesity causes systemic low-grade chronic inflammation and increases the risk of cardiovascular, renal, and other disorders. In experimentally induced AP, obesity significantly increases periapical bone loss, albeit the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Recent technological innovations have enabled more comprehensive and detailed analyses than previously, leading to new insights into the role of IL-1RA in regulating IL-1 signaling, and modulating apical lesion progression in obesity. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the function of IL-1 in AP development, with special emphasis on the latest findings in normal weight and obese states.
Enhanced understanding of changes in tropical cyclones’ landfall frequency over mainland China
Authors: Li Guangxin , Li Qinglan , Zhao Wei , Zhou Guanbo , Qian Qifeng , Qian Chuanhai , He Lunkai
Published: August 2022

The climatological characteristics and interannual variations of tropical cyclones (TCs) making landfall in mainland China during the peak TC seasons (July–October) from 1980 to 2020 are examined using the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) best-track dataset. There were 270 TCs landfalling in mainland China during the study period, with 226 TCs landfalling in South China (SC) and 44 TCs landfalling in East China (EC). During 1980–2020, the number of TCs affecting mainland China gradually decreased, although the trend is not significant. The number of TCs impacting SC is experiencing a significant decrease, while the number of TC affecting EC is stable. Based on the change-point analysis, the TC landfall frequency in mainland China and SC incurred significant decreases in 1995/1996 and 1996/1997, respectively. The significant reduction in the number of landfalling TCs over SC and the insignificant reduction in the TC landfall frequency over mainland China are mainly due to the great reduction in the TC formation frequency over the western North Pacific (WNP). Meanwhile, the yearly mean of TCs’ landfalling latitudes is moving northward slightly, possibly linked to the slight poleward shift of their genesis locations. A large area of negative anomalies in the lower-tropospheric absolute vorticity and positive variations in the vertical wind shear (VWS) over the tropical WNP are possibly responsible for the reduction in TC genesis over the WNP. Moreover, the apparent opposite anomalies of the two variables over the region north of 20°N and south of 20°N might contribute to the slight poleward shift of genesis locations of landfalling TCs during the 41 years. The variations in the large-scale steering flow are favorable for more TCs moving northwestward and making landfall in EC than before. Meanwhile, the decrease in TC landfall frequency over mainland China is found to be significantly correlated to the pronounced warming over the tropical Indian Ocean.
Comprehensive evaluation of vegetation responses to meteorological drought from both linear and nonlinear perspectives
Authors: Zhou Zhaoqiang , Ding Yibo , Fu Qiang , Wang Can , Wang Yao , Cai Hejiang , Liu Suning , Shi Haiyun
Published: August 2022

The frequent occurrence of drought events in recent years has caused significant changes in plant biodiversity. Understanding vegetation dynamics and their responses to climate change is of great significance to reveal the behaviour mechanism of terrestrial ecosystems. In this study, NDVI and SIF were used to evaluate the dynamic changes of vegetation in the Pearl River Basin (PRB). The relationship between vegetation and meteorological drought in the PRB was evaluated from both linear and nonlinear perspectives, and the difference of vegetation response to meteorological drought in different land types was revealed. Cross wavelet analysis was used to explore the teleconnection factors (e.g., large-scale climate patterns and solar activity) that may affect the relationship between meteorological drought and vegetation dynamics. The results show that 1) from 2001 to 2019, the vegetation cover and photosynthetic capacity of the PRB both showed increasing trends, with changing rates of 0.055/10a and 0.036/10a, respectively; 2) compared with NDVI, the relationship between SIF and meteorological drought was closer; 3) the vegetation response time (VRT) obtained based on NDVI was mainly 4–5 months, which was slightly longer than that based on SIF (mainly 3–4 months); 4) the VRT of woody vegetation (mainly 3–4 months) was longer than that of herbaceous vegetation (mainly 4–5 months); and 5) vegetation had significant positive correlations with the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and sunspots but a significant negative correlation with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). Compared with sunspots, the ENSO and the PDO were more closely related to the response relationship between meteorological drought and vegetation. The outcomes of this study can help reveal the relationship between vegetation dynamics and climate change under the background of global warming and provide a new perspective for studying the relationship between drought and vegetation.
Application of high-resolution processing in seismic data based on an improved synchrosqueezing transform
Authors: Yu Chen , Wang Shuyan , Cheng Lifang
Published: August 2022

This study proposes a high-resolution processing technique for seismic data based on the improved synchrosqueezing transform (SST). The SST rearranges the complex spectrum of the wavelet transform along the frequency axis. However, the energy is not concentrated in the position with the faster frequency change rate. To overcome these problems, the proposed method first transformed the seismic signal into an analytical one via Hilbert transformation and then determined the phase correction value (x0(t)) before and after the transformation. This was achieved using the instantaneous frequency attribute (ω(t)) of the analytical signal and a specific frequency (ω0) selected as the dominant frequency of the input data to adjust the change rate of the signal frequency before the SST falls close to zero, which can improve the time–frequency resolution after compression transformation. The essence of this method only adjusts the phase of the signal before and after transformation, without affecting the inverse expression of the SST. The one- and two-dimensional model data results show that the proposed method can better identify the time–frequency distribution characteristics of seismic signals and improve their resolution and the focusing effect in the time–frequency domain. The proposed method shows good prospects for application in gas reservoir detection and identification.
Psychometric study of a scale on the use of video games for the initial training of teachers
Authors: Muñoz González Juan Manuel , Ariza Carrasco Cristian , Hidalgo Ariza María Dolores , Romero Esquinas María Helena
Published: August 2022

The present study is focused on analyzing the properties and psychometric characteristics of the Questionnaire about the use of video games in Higher Education. Specifically, in this work we focus on the use of a classic video game, such as Lemmings, to work on the curriculum of the Early Childhood Education stage. The instrument was created ad hoc, based on a Likert scale of 5 response options and three dimensions: student/player profile, quality of the video game and assessment of the video game as a teaching resource. Regarding validity, two studies have been carried out, one with an exploratory nature with half of the sample, 131 participants; and another confirmatory with the total number of the participants, 261 students from the Early Childhood Education Degree at the University of Córdoba (Spain), considering the convergent and discriminant validity coefficients. Lastly, a correlational study was also carried out to clarify the relationships established between the different dimensions of the questionnaire. The results achieved demonstrate that the instrument obtained had a coherent and adequate internal structure with the theoretical assumptions initially raised, as the goodness-of-fit indexes of the confirmed model were high, at the same time showing high validity and reliability.
Comparative efficacy and safety of glucose-lowering drugs in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Sijia , He Yina , Wu Yutong , Ji Yiman , Hou Lei , Liu Xinhui , Ge Yilei , Yu Yuanyuan , Yu Yifan , Wei Yun , Qian Fengtong , Luo Qingxin , Feng Yue , Feng Yiping , Wang Jiongjiong , Huo Meiling , Li Hongkai , Xue Fuzhong , Liu Yunxia
Published: August 2022

Objective

Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, but is becoming the major concern in children and adolescent recently. This study aimed to provide additional pharmaceutical management for children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes by assessing the efficacy and safety of several glucose-lowering drugs.

Methods

Searches were performed in PubMed, Medline, Ovid, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL), and ClinicalTrials.gov that reported the efficacy and safety of drugs for children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes. Pooled effects were calculated by frequentist fixed effects network meta-analyses and additive network meta-analyses.

Results

A total of 12 trials assessing eight glucose-lowering drugs were included, which compose of seven trials with monotherapy and five trials with combination therapies. Network meta-analysis results showed compared to placebo, saxagliptin+metformin (mean difference (MD) -1.91% [-2.85%, -0.97%]), liraglutide+metformin (MD -1.45% [-1.65%, -1.26%]), and liraglutide (MD -0.90% [-1.35%, -0.45%]) were the top 3 drugs that significantly reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Sitagliptin+metformin, dapagliflozin, exenatide-2mcg, linagliptin-5mg, metformin, exenatide-5/10mcg, glimepiride, and sitagliptin also showed significant reduction in HbA1c. There were no significant differences between treatments in the incidence of adverse events, except that liraglutide+metformin had significant adverse effect such as abdominal pain. In addition, dapagliflozin, sitagliptin+metformin, and saxagliptin+metformin showed better efficacy compared with FDA-approved drugs.

Conclusions

The top 10 treatments of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents aged 10–17 years were saxagliptin+metformin, liraglutide+metformin, liraglutide, dapagliflozin, exenatide–2 mcg, sitagliptin+metformin, linagliptin–5 mg, linagliptin–1 mg, metformin, and exenatide–5/10 mcg.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=284897, identifier CRD42021284897.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass alters intestinal glucose transport in the obese Zucker rat
Authors: Meng Qinghe , Culnan Derek M. , Ahmed Tamer , Sun Mingjie , Cooney Robert N.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The gastrointestinal tract plays a major role in regulating glucose homeostasis and gut endocrine function. The current study examines the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on intestinal GLP-1, glucose transporter expression and function in the obese Zucker rat (ZR).

Methods

Two groups of ZRs were studied: RYGB and sham surgery pair-fed (PF) fed rats. Body weight and food intake were measured daily. On post-operative day (POD) 21, an oral glucose test (OGT) was performed, basal and 30-minute plasma, portal venous glucose and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels were measured. In separate ZRs, the biliopancreatic, Roux limb (Roux) and common channel (CC) intestinal segments were harvested on POD 21.

Results

Body weight was decreased in the RYGB group. Basal and 30-minute OGT plasma and portal glucose levels were decreased after RYGB. Basal plasma GLP-1 levels were similar, while a 4.5-fold increase in GLP-1 level was observed in 30-minute after RYGB (vs. PF). The increase in basal and 30-minute portal venous GLP-1 levels after RYGB were accompanied by increased mRNA expressions of proglucagon and PC 1/3, GPR119 protein in the Roux and CC segments. mRNA and protein levels of FFAR2/3 were increased in Roux segment. RYGB decreased brush border glucose transport, transporter proteins (SGLT1 and GLUT2) and mRNA levels of Tas1R1/Tas1R3 and α-gustducin in the Roux and CC segments.

Conclusions

Reductions in intestinal glucose transport and enhanced post-prandial GLP-1 release were associated with increases in GRP119 and FFAR2/3 after RYGB in the ZR model. Post-RYGB reductions in the regulation of intestinal glucose transport and L cell receptors regulating GLP-1 secretion represent potential mechanisms for improved glycemic control.
Luteinizing hormone-based modified GnRH antagonist protocol in normal responders undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment: A multi-center randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Shan , Lv Yasu , Liu Minghui , Han Shuo , Liu Xiaoqun , Zhao Zhiming , Cui Wei , Yang Aijun , Li Yuan
Published: August 2022

Objective

To study the clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a modified gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol based on luteinizing hormone (LH) levels through one complete assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle in normal responders.

Design

Non-inferiority, multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Setting

University-based hospitals and an academic medical center.

Patients

A total of 372 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were eligible to participate.

Intervention(s)

Participants were randomized at a 1:1 ratio and stimulated with the conventional flexible GnRH antagonist protocol (control group) or LH-based modified GnRH antagonist protocol (study group).

Main Outcome Measures

The primary outcome was the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate per aspiration. The secondary outcomes were number of oocytes retrieved, number of good quality embryos, cumulative positive βhCG rate, cumulative clinical pregnancy rate, pregnancy loss rate, moderate and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), and financial expenditure.

Results

The cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate was 65.1% in the study group and 70.1% in the control group (odds ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.50–1.26; P = 0.33). The multivariate regression analyses results showed that the number of retrieved oocytes was positively associated with the odds for a higher cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate (adjusted odds ratio, 1.11, 95% confidence interval, 1.06–1.17, P < 0.001). The treatment protocol, female age, and body mass index were not independent predictors. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for luteinizing hormone-based gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist protocol versus the conventional flexible gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist protocol was estimated at 3568.6 USD for each additional ongoing pregnancy.

Conclusion

The luteinizing hormone-based gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist protocol had clinical efficacy similar to the conventional flexible gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist protocol in normal responders undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment but was more cost-effective considering the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate in the entire assisted reproductive technology cycle.

Clinical Trial Registration

www.chictr.org.cn, identifier: ChiCTR1800018077

URL of the registration site

http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=27389&htm=4.

Trial registration date

29 August 2018.

Date of first patient enrollment

1 September 2018.