bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug repurposing-based nanoplatform via modulating autophagy to enhance chemo-phototherapy against colorectal cancer
Authors: Ding Ke , Tian Hailong , Li Lei , Wang Zhihan , Liu Shanshan , Ding Ning , Nice Edouard C. , Huang Canhua , Bao Jinku , Gao Wei , Shi Zheng
Published: April 2024

Multi-modal combination therapy is regarded as a promising approach to cancer treatment. Combining chemotherapy and phototherapy is an essential multi-modal combination therapy endeavor. Ivermectin (IVM) is a potent antiparasitic agent identified as having potential antitumor properties. However, the fact that it induces protective autophagy while killing tumor cells poses a challenge to its further application. IR780 iodide (IR780) is a near-infrared (NIR) dye with outstanding photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) effects. However, the hydrophobicity, instability, and low tumor uptake of IR780 limit its clinical applications. Here, we have structurally modified IR780 with hydroxychloroquine, an autophagy inhibitor, to synthesize a novel compound H780. H780 and IVM can form H780-IVM nanoparticles (H-I NPs) via self-assembly. Using hyaluronic acid (HA) to modify the H-I NPs, a novel nano-delivery system HA/H780-IVM nanoparticles (HA/H-I NPs) was synthesized for chemotherapy-phototherapy of colorectal cancer (CRC). Under NIR laser irradiation, HA/H-I NPs effectively overcame the limitations of IR780 and IVM and exhibited potent cytotoxicity. In vitro and in vivo experiment results showed that HA/H-I NPs exhibited excellent anti-CRC effects. Therefore, our study provides a novel strategy for CRC treatment that could enhance chemo-phototherapy by modulating autophagy.
Homologous-magnetic dual-targeted metal-organic framework to improve the Anti-hepatocellular carcinoma efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor
Authors: Guo Hong , Li Xia , Mao Dengxuan , Wang Hong , Wei Liangyin , Qu Ding , Qin Xiaoying , Li Xiaoqi , Liu Yuping , Chen Yan
Published: April 2024

The insufficient abundance and weak activity of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are two important reasons for the poor efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. The combined administration of tanshinone IIA (TSA) and astragaloside IV (As) can up-regulate the abundance and activity of TILs by normalising tumour blood vessels and reducing the levels of immunosuppressive factors respectively. For enhancing the efficacy of PD-1 antibody, a magnetic metal–organic framework (MOF) with a homologous tumour cell membrane (Hm) coating (Hm@TSA/As-MOF) is established to co-deliver TSA&As into the HCC microenvironment. Hm@TSA/As-MOF is a spherical nanoparticle and has a high total drug-loading capacity of 16.13 wt%. The Hm coating and magnetic responsiveness of Hm@TSA/As-MOF provide a homologous-magnetic dual-targeting, which enable Hm@TSA/As-MOF to counteract the interference posed by ascites tumour cells and enhance the precision of targeting solid tumours. Hm coating also enable Hm@TSA/As-MOF to evade immune clearance by macrophages. The release of TSA&As from Hm@TSA/As-MOF can be accelerated by HCC microenvironment, thereby up-regulating the abundance and activity of TILs to synergistic PD-1 antibody against HCC. This study presents a nanoplatform to improve the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in HCC, providing a novel approach for anti-tumour immunotherapy in clinical practice.
H2S-driven chemotherapy and mild photothermal therapy induced mitochondrial reprogramming to promote cuproptosis
Authors: Qiao Lihong , Ou Yijing , Li Lin , Wu Shuzhen , Guo Yanxian , Liu Mu , Yu Dongsheng , Chen Qinghua , Yuan Jianmin , Wei Chuanqi , Ou Chiyi , Li Haowen , Cheng Du , Yu Zhiqiang , Li Zhongjun
Published: April 2024

The elevated level of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in colon cancer hinders complete cure with a single therapy. However, excessive H2S also offers a treatment target. A multifunctional cascade bioreactor based on the H2S-responsive mesoporous Cu2Cl(OH)3-loaded hypoxic prodrug tirapazamine (TPZ), in which the outer layer was coated with hyaluronic acid (HA) to form TPZ@Cu2Cl(OH)3-HA (TCuH) nanoparticles (NPs), demonstrated a synergistic antitumor effect through combining the H2S-driven cuproptosis and mild photothermal therapy. The HA coating endowed the NPs with targeting delivery to enhance drug accumulation in the tumor tissue. The presence of both the high level of H2S and the near-infrared II (NIR II) irradiation achieved the in situ generation of photothermic agent copper sulfide (Cu9S8) from the TCuH, followed with the release of TPZ. The depletion of H2S stimulated consumption of oxygen, resulting in hypoxic state and mitochondrial reprogramming. The hypoxic state activated prodrug TPZ to activated TPZ (TPZ-ed) for chemotherapy in turn. Furthermore, the exacerbated hypoxia inhibited the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate, decreasing expression of heat shock proteins and subsequently improving the photothermal therapy. The enriched Cu2+ induced not only cuproptosis by promoting lipoacylated dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase (DLAT) heteromerization but also performed chemodynamic therapy though catalyzing H2O2 to produce highly toxic hydroxyl radicals ·OH. Therefore, the nanoparticles TCuH offer a versatile platform to exert copper-related synergistic antitumor therapy.
Deciphering the importance of culture pH on CD22 CAR T-cells characteristics
Authors: Prochazkova Michaela , Dreyzin Alexandra , Shao Lipei , Garces Pam , Cai Yihua , Shi Rongye , Pelayo Alejandra , Kim Yong Soo , Pham Victoria , Frodigh Sue Ellen , Fenton Shannon , Karangwa Catherine , Su Yan , Martin Kathryn , Zhang Nan , Highfill Steven L. , Somerville Robert P. , Shah Nirali N. , Stroncek David F. , Jin Ping
Published: April 2024

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have demonstrated significant efficacy in targeting hematological malignancies, and their use continues to expand. Despite substantial efforts spent on the optimization of protocols for CAR T-cell manufacturing, critical parameters of cell culture such as pH or oxygenation are rarely actively monitored during cGMP CAR T-cell generation. A comprehensive understanding of the role that these factors play in manufacturing may help in optimizing patient-specific CAR T-cell therapy with maximum benefits and minimal toxicity.

Methods

This retrospective study examined cell culture supernatants from the manufacture of CAR T-cells for 20 patients with B-cell malignancies enrolled in a phase 1/2 clinical trial of anti-CD22 CAR T-cells. MetaFLEX was used to measure supernatant pH, oxygenation, and metabolites, and a Bio-Plex assay was used to assess protein levels. Correlations were assessed between the pH of cell culture media throughout manufacturing and cell proliferation as well as clinical outcomes. Next-generation sequencing was conducted to examine gene expression profiles of the final CAR T-cell products.

Results

A pH level at the lower range of normal at the beginning of the manufacturing process significantly correlated with measures of T-cell expansion and metabolism. Stable or rising pH during the manufacturing process was associated with clinical response, whereas a drop in pH was associated with non-response.

Conclusions

pH has potential to serve as an informative factor in predicting CAR T-cell quality and clinical outcomes. Thus, its active monitoring during manufacturing may ensure a more effective CAR T-cell product.
Understanding the matrix: collagen modifications in tumors and their implications for immunotherapy
Authors: Borst Rowie , Meyaard Linde , Pascoal Ramos M. Ines
Published: April 2024

Tumors are highly complex and heterogenous ecosystems where malignant cells interact with healthy cells and the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Solid tumors contain large ECM deposits that can constitute up to 60% of the tumor mass. This supports the survival and growth of cancerous cells and plays a critical role in the response to immune therapy. There is untapped potential in targeting the ECM and cell-ECM interactions to improve existing immune therapy and explore novel therapeutic strategies. The most abundant proteins in the ECM are the collagen family. There are 28 different collagen subtypes that can undergo several post-translational modifications (PTMs), which alter both their structure and functionality. Here, we review current knowledge on tumor collagen composition and the consequences of collagen PTMs affecting receptor binding, cell migration and tumor stiffness. Furthermore, we discuss how these alterations impact tumor immune responses and how collagen could be targeted to treat cancer.
Neuroinflammation driven by human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) directs the expression of long noncoding RNA RP11-677M14.2 resulting in dysregulation of neurogranin in vivo and in vitro
Authors: dos Reis Roberta S. , Wagner Marc C. E. , McKenna Savannah , Ayyavoo Velpandi
Published: April 2024

Neuroinflammation and synaptodendritic damage represent the pathological hallmarks of HIV-1 associated cognitive disorders (HAND). The post-synaptic protein neurogranin (Nrgn) is significantly reduced in the frontal cortex of postmortem brains from people with HIV (PWH) and it is associated with inflammatory factors released by infected microglia/macrophages. However, the mechanism involved in synaptic loss have yet to be elucidated. In this study, we characterized a newly identified long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) transcript (RP11-677M14.2), which is antisense to the NRGN locus and is highly expressed in the frontal cortex of HIV-1 individuals. Further analysis indicates an inverse correlation between the expression of RP11-677M14.2 RNA and Nrgn mRNA. Additionally, the Nrgn-lncRNA axis is dysregulated in neurons exposed to HIV-1 infected microglia conditioned medium enriched with IL-1β. Moreover, in vitro overexpression of this lncRNA impacts Nrgn expression at both mRNA and protein levels. Finally, we modeled the Nrgn-lncRNA dysregulation within an HIV-1-induced inflammatory environment using brain organoids, thereby corroborating our in vivo and in vitro findings. Together, our study implicates a plausible role for lncRNA RP11-677M14.2 in modulating Nrgn expression that might serve as the mechanistic link between Nrgn loss and cognitive dysfunction in HAND, thus shedding new light on the mechanisms underlying synaptodendritic damage.
Mas receptor activation facilitates innate hematoma resolution and neurological recovery after hemorrhagic stroke in mice
Authors: Deng Xiangyang , Ren Junwei , Chen Kezhu , Zhang Jin , Zhang Quan , Zeng Jun , Li Tianwen , Tang Qisheng , Lin Jian , Zhu Jianhong
Published: April 2024

Background

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating neurological disease causing severe sensorimotor dysfunction and cognitive decline, yet there is no effective treatment strategy to alleviate outcomes of these patients. The Mas axis-mediated neuroprotection is involved in the pathology of various neurological diseases, however, the role of the Mas receptor in the setting of ICH remains to be elucidated.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were used to establish the ICH model by injection of collagenase into mice striatum. The Mas receptor agonist AVE0991 was administered intranasally (0.9 mg/kg) after ICH. Using a combination of behavioral tests, Western blots, immunofluorescence staining, hematoma volume, brain edema, quantitative-PCR, TUNEL staining, Fluoro-Jade C staining, Nissl staining, and pharmacological methods, we examined the impact of intranasal application of AVE0991 on hematoma absorption and neurological outcomes following ICH and investigated the underlying mechanism.

Results

Mas receptor was found to be significantly expressed in activated microglia/macrophages, and the peak expression of Mas receptor in microglia/macrophages was observed at approximately 3–5 days, followed by a subsequent decline. Activation of Mas by AVE0991 post-treatment promoted hematoma absorption, reduced brain edema, and improved both short- and long-term neurological functions in ICH mice. Moreover, AVE0991 treatment effectively attenuated neuronal apoptosis, inhibited neutrophil infiltration, and reduced the release of inflammatory cytokines in perihematomal areas after ICH. Mechanistically, AVE0991 post-treatment significantly promoted the transformation of microglia/macrophages towards an anti-inflammatory, phagocytic, and reparative phenotype, and this functional phenotypic transition of microglia/macrophages by Mas activation was abolished by both Mas inhibitor A779 and Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. Furthermore, hematoma clearance and neuroprotective effects of AVE0991 treatment were reversed after microglia depletion in ICH.

Conclusions

Mas activation can promote hematoma absorption, ameliorate neurological deficits, alleviate neuron apoptosis, reduced neuroinflammation, and regulate the function and phenotype of microglia/macrophages via Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway after ICH. Thus, intranasal application of Mas agonist ACE0991 may provide promising strategy for clinical treatment of ICH patients.
Fatigue in children using motor imagery and P300 brain-computer interfaces
Authors: Keough Joanna RG. , Irvine Brian , Kelly Dion , Wrightson James , Comaduran Marquez Daniel , Kinney-Lang Eli , Kirton Adam
Published: April 2024

Background

Brain-computer interface (BCI) technology offers children with quadriplegic cerebral palsy unique opportunities for communication, environmental exploration, learning, and game play. Research in adults demonstrates a negative impact of fatigue on BCI enjoyment, while effects on BCI performance are variable. To date, there have been no pediatric studies of BCI fatigue. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of two different BCI paradigms, motor imagery and visual P300, on the development of self-reported fatigue and an electroencephalography (EEG) biomarker of fatigue in typically developing children.

Methods

Thirty-seven typically-developing school-aged children were recruited to a prospective, crossover study. Participants attended three sessions: (A) motor imagery-BCI, (B) visual P300-BCI, and (C) video viewing (control). The motor imagery task involved an imagined left- or right-hand squeeze. The P300 task involved attending to one square on a 3 × 3 grid during a random single flash sequence. Each paradigm had respective calibration periods and a similar visual counting game. Primary outcomes were self-reported fatigue and the power of the EEG alpha band both collected during resting-state periods pre- and post-task. Self-reported fatigue was measured using a 10-point visual analog scale. EEG alpha band power was calculated as the integrated power spectral density from 8 to 12 Hz of the EEG spectrum.

Results

Thirty-two children completed the protocol (age range 7–16, 63% female). Self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power increased across all sessions (F(1,155) = 33.9, p < 0.001; F = 5.0(1,149), p = 0.027 respectively). No differences in fatigue development were observed between session types. There was no correlation between self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power change. BCI performance varied between participants and paradigms as expected but was not associated with self-reported fatigue or EEG alpha band power.

Conclusion

Short periods (30-mintues) of BCI use can increase self-reported fatigue and EEG alpha band power to a similar degree in children performing motor imagery and P300 BCI paradigms. Performance was not associated with our measures of fatigue; the impact of fatigue on useability and enjoyment is unclear. Our results reflect the variability of fatigue and the BCI experience more broadly in children and warrant further investigation.
Stability indicating high performance thin layer chromatography method development and validation for quantitative determination of tetracycline hydrochloride in tetracycline hydrochloride active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and its dosage forms
Authors: Gashaw Misganaw , Layloff Thomas , Hymete Ariaya , Ashenef Ayenew
Published: April 2024

Simple, quick, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly analytical methods for quality assurance and control roles for different medicines, including Tetrcyclines, are most significantly needed. Also, different thin layer chromatography (TLC)-based methods for tetracycline identification exist, but high performance thin layer chromatography methods based on modern state- of- the art equipment are still nonexistent. Thus, in this study, analytical method development and verification were done by high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) (using an automated equipment model) using glass plates coated with silica gel 60 F254 after treating with 10% Na2EDTA. Validation was carried out according to International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. A mobile phase formed from ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, methanol, and 1% aqueous ammonia in the composition of 4.4:19.6:10:6 volume to volume ratio (V/V) was used. Rf value, percentage recoveries, linearity ranges, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantitation (LOQ) for the developed HPTLC method were 0.28, 100.83–106.25%, 160–560 ng/band (r2 values of 0.9999), 31.9 ng/band, and 96.7 ng/band, respectively. The results of the sample assays conducted using the new method and the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method were 91.59% to 108.3% and 90.83% to 102.85%, respectively. The F test for the aforementioned methods was 2.01, which is smaller than the tabulated F value of 5.05 with 5 degrees of freedom at a 95% confidence range, proving that the newly developed HPTLC and HPLC pharmacopoeial methods can be used interchangeably.The newly developed HPTLC method is easy, economical, specific, accurate, and roboust, thus it can be employed in a range of settings that require quality control and assurance activities of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC-HCl) in bulk and ointment dosage forms.
Causal effect of gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: He Ganyuan , Chen Jiayi , Hao Wenke , Hu Wenxue
Published: April 2024

Background

The interaction of dysbiosis of gut microbiota (GM) with diabetic nephropathy (DN) drew our attention and a better understanding of GM on DN might provide potential therapeutic approaches. However, the exact causal effect of GM on DN remains unknown.

Methods

We applied two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger methods, etc., to screen the significant bacterial taxa based on the GWAS data. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the robustness of MR results. To identify the most critical factor on DN, Mendelian randomization-Bayesian model averaging (MR-BMA) method was utilized. Then, whether the reverse causality existed was verified by reverse MR analysis. Finally, transcriptome MR analysis was performed to investigate the possible mechanism of GM on DN.

Results

At locus-wide significance levels, the results of IVW suggested that order Bacteroidales (odds ratio (OR) = 1.412, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.025–1.945, P = 0.035), genus Akkermansia (OR = 1.449, 95% CI: 1.120–1.875, P = 0.005), genus Coprococcus 1 (OR = 1.328, 95% CI: 1.066–1.793, P = 0.015), genus Marvinbryantia (OR = 1.353, 95% CI: 1.037–1.777, P = 0.030) and genus Parasutterella (OR = 1.276, 95% CI: 1.022–1.593, P = 0.032) were risk factors for DN. Reversely, genus Eubacterium ventriosum (OR = 0.756, 95% CI: 0.594–0.963, P = 0.023), genus Ruminococcus gauvreauii (OR = 0.663, 95% CI: 0.506–0.870, P = 0.003) and genus Erysipelotrichaceae (UCG003) (OR = 0.801, 95% CI: 0.644–0.997, P = 0.047) were negatively associated with the risk of DN. Among these taxa, genus Ruminococcus gauvreauii played a crucial role in DN. No significant heterogeneity or pleiotropy in the MR result was found. Mapped genes (FDR < 0.05) related to GM had causal effects on DN, while FCGR2B and VNN2 might be potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusions

This work provided new evidence for the causal effect of GM on DN occurrence and potential biomarkers for DN. The significant bacterial taxa in our study provided new insights for the ‘gut-kidney’ axis, as well as unconventional prevention and treatment strategies for DN.
Mendelian randomisation highlights type 1 diabetes as a causal determinant of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Ma Xinlai , Zhang Yang , Wu Fan , Liu Xue , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2024

Background

It is unclear whether type 1 diabetes (T1D) causes idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), despite observational research linking the two conditions. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the causal link between T1D and the likelihood of IPF by employing the Mendelian randomization (MR) technique of two-sample Mendelian randomization.

Methods

Using data from two genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with European ancestry, we performed a two-sample MR analysis. These studies involved 18,856 individuals (6,683 cases and 12,173 controls) for T1D and 198,014 individuals (10,028 cases and 196,986 controls) for IPF. We utilized inverse-variance weighted (IVW) analysis as our main approach to determine the association between the risk of IPF and T1D. To evaluate multidirectionality, the MR-Egger regression test was utilized, whereas heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q test. Additionally, a leave-one-out analysis was performed to assess the reliability of the results.

Results

38 SNPs linked to T1D were employed as instrumental variables (IVs). Multiple MR methods yielded consistent results, and the MR analysis reveals a significant and positive causal impact of T1D on IPF (MR-IVW, odds ratio [OR] = 1.128, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.034–1.230; P = 0.006). The limitations of the study include the lack of data from non-European groups and the inability to rule out the possibility of small links. Larger MR experiments are necessary to investigate minute impacts.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide evidence that T1D contributes to the onset and advancement of IPF. This finding may provide important insights into the cause of IPF and possible treatments in the future.
Evaluation of Th1/Th2, regulatory cytokines and transcriptional factor FoxP3 in sheep immunized with a partially protective and non-protective vaccine and challenged with Fasciola hepatica
Authors: Ruiz-Campillo María Teresa , Pacheco Isabel Lourdes , Abril Nieves , Bautista María José , Martínez-Moreno Álvaro , Martínez-Moreno Francisco Javier , Buffoni Leandro , Pérez José , Molina-Hernández Verónica , Zafra Rafael
Published: April 2024

Gene expression for Th1/Th2 cytokines (IL-4 and IFN-ɣ), regulatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10) and the transcriptional factor FoxP3 was analyzed in the liver and hepatic lymph nodes (HLN) from sheep immunized with partially protective and non-protective vaccine candidates and challenged with Fasciola hepatica. FoxP3 T cells were also evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHQ). The most remarkable difference between the partially protected vaccinated (V1) group and the non-protected vaccinated (V2) group was a more severe expansion of FoxP3 T cells recorded by IHQ in both the liver and HLN of the V2 group as compared to the V1 group, whereas no differences were found between the V2 group and the infected control (IC) group. Similar results were recorded for FoxP3 gene expression although significant differences among V1 and V2 groups were only significant in the HLN, while FoxP3 gene expression was very similar in the V2 and IC groups both in the liver and HLN. No significant differences for the remaining cytokines were recorded between the V1 and V2 groups, but in the liver the V2 group shows significant increases of IFN-ɣ and IL-10 as compared to the uninfected control (UC) group whereas the V1 group did not. The lower expansion of FoxP3 T cells and lower increase of IFN-ɣ and IL-10 in the partially protected vaccinated group may be related with lower hepatic lesions and fluke burdens recorded in this group as compared to the other two infected groups. The most relevant change in regulatory cytokine gene expression was the significant increase of TGF-β in the liver of IC, V1 and V2 groups as compared to the UC group, which could be related to hepatic lesions.
Association of quality of nursing care with violence load, burnout, and listening climate
Authors: Shafran Tikva Sigal , Gabay Gillie , Shkoler Or , Kagan Ilya
Published: April 2024

Background

Violence against nurses is common. Previous research has recommended further development of the measurement of violence against nurses and integration of the individual and ward-related factors that contribute to violence against hospital nurses. This study was designed to address these issues by investigating the associations between violence, the listening climate of hospital wards, professional burnout, and perceived quality of care. For this purpose, we used a new operationalization of the violence concept.

Methods

We sought nurses to participate in the study through social media which yielded 765 nurses working in various healthcare systems across Israel who volunteered to complete a self-administered online questionnaire. 80% of the sample were hospital nurses, and 84.7% were female. The questionnaire included validated measures of burnout, listening climate, and quality of care. Instead of using the traditional binary measure of exposure to violence to capture the occurrence and comprehensive impact of violence, this study measured the incremental load of violence to which nurses are subjected.

Results

There were significant correlations between violence load and perceived quality of care and between constructive and destructive listening climates and quality of care. Violence load contributed 14% to the variance of burnout and 13% to the variance of perceived quality of care. The ward listening climate moderated the relationship between burnout and quality of care.

Conclusions

The results of this study highlight the impact of violence load among nurses and the ward listening climate on the development of burnout and on providing quality care. The findings call upon policymakers to monitor violence load and allocate resources to foster supportive work environments to enhance nurse well-being and improve patient care outcomes.
Research advances on molecular mechanism and natural product therapy of iron metabolism in heart failure
Authors: Zhang Tianqing , Luo Li , He Qi , Xiao Sijie , Li Yuwei , Chen Junpeng , Qin Tao , Xiao Zhenni , Ge Qingliang
Published: April 2024

The progression of heart failure (HF) is complex and involves multiple regulatory pathways. Iron ions play a crucial supportive role as a cofactor for important proteins such as hemoglobin, myoglobin, oxidative respiratory chain, and DNA synthetase, in the myocardial energy metabolism process. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that HF is associated with iron dysmetabolism, and deficiencies in iron and overload of iron can both lead to the development of various myocarditis diseases, which ultimately progress to HF. Iron toxicity and iron metabolism may be key targets for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HF. Some iron chelators (such as desferrioxamine), antioxidants (such as ascorbate), Fer-1, and molecules that regulate iron levels (such as lactoferrin) have been shown to be effective in treating HF and protecting the myocardium in multiple studies. Additionally, certain natural compounds can play a significant role by mediating the imbalance of iron-related signaling pathways and expression levels. Therefore, this review not only summarizes the basic processes of iron metabolism in the body and the mechanisms by which they play a role in HF, with the aim of providing new clues and considerations for the treatment of HF, but also summarizes recent studies on natural chemical components that involve ferroptosis and its role in HF pathology, as well as the mechanisms by which naturally occurring products regulate ferroptosis in HF, with the aim of providing reference information for the development of new ferroptosis inhibitors and lead compounds for the treatment of HF in the future.
Mental health during ecological crisis: translating and validating the Hogg Eco-anxiety Scale for Argentinian and Spanish populations
Authors: Rodríguez Quiroga Andrea , Peña Loray Juan Segundo , Moreno Poyato Antonio , Roldán Merino Juan , Botero Camila , Bongiardino Laura , Aufenacker Saskia Ivana , Stanley Samantha K. , Costa Tiago , Luís Sílvia , O’Brien Léan V. , Hogg Teaghan L. , Teixeira-Santos Luísa , Guedes de Pinho Lara , Sequeira Carlos , Sampaio Francisco
Published: April 2024

Background

Eco-anxiety is increasingly recognized as a shared experience by many people internationally, encompassing fear of environmental catastrophe and anxiety about ecological crises. Despite its importance in the context of the changing climate, measures for this construct are still being developed in languages other than English.

Methods

To contribute to global eco-anxiety research, we translated the Hogg Eco-Anxiety Scale (HEAS) into Spanish, creating the HEAS-SP. We validated this measure in samples from both Argentina (n = 990) and Spain (n = 548), performing measurement invariance and confirmatory factor analyses. Internal consistency of the scale and score stability over time were investigated through reliability analyses. Differences in eco-anxiety across sociodemographic variables were explored through Student’s t-tests and Pearson’s r tests.

Results

The four-factor model of the HEAS-SP comprising affective and behavioural symptoms, rumination, and anxiety about personal impact demonstrated excellent model fit. We found good internal consistency for each subscale, and established measurement invariance between Spanish and Argentine samples, as well as across genders and participants’ age. Spanish participants reported higher scores on the affective symptoms and personal impact anxiety factors compared to the Argentinian sample. Also, men reported lower levels than women on the subscales of affective symptoms, rumination, and personal impact anxiety. It was found that the relationship between both age and personal impact anxiety and age and affective symptoms varies significantly depending on the gender of the individuals. Younger participants tended to report higher scores on most dimensions of eco-anxiety.

Conclusions

These findings enhance the global initiative to investigate, explore and therefore comprehend eco-anxiety by introducing the first valid and reliable Spanish-language version of this psychometric instrument for its use within Spanish and Argentinian populations. This study augments the body of evidence supporting the robust psychometric properties of the HEAS, as demonstrated in prior validations for Australian, Turkish, Portuguese, German, French, and Italian populations.
The complete chloroplast genome and phylogentic results support the species position of Swertia banzragczii and Swertia marginata (Gentianaceae) in Mongolia
Authors: Oyuntsetseg Dashzeveg , Nyamgerel Nudkhuu , Baasanmunkh Shukherdorj , Oyuntsetseg Batlai , Urgamal Magsar , Yoon Jung Won , Bayarmaa Gun-Aajav , Choi Hyeok Jae
Published: April 2024

Background

Swertia banzragczii and S. marginata are important medicinal species in Mongolia. However, their taxonomic positions and genetic backgrounds remain unknown. In this study, we explored the complete chloroplast genomes and DNA barcoding of these species and compared them with those of closely related species within the subgenus to determine their taxonomic positions and phylogenetic relationships.

Result

The chloroplast genomes of S. banzragczii and S. marginata encoded 114 genes, including 80 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Among them, 16 genes contained a single intron, and 2 genes had two introns. Closely related species had a conserved genome structure and gene content. Only differences in genome length were noticed, which were caused by the expansion and contraction of the inverted repeat (IR) region and loss of exons in some genes. The trnH-GUG–psbA and trnD-GUC–trnY-GUA intergenic regions had high genetic diversity within Swertia plastomes. Overall, S. banzragczii and S. marginata are true species and belong to the subgenus Swertia.

Conclusions

These results provide valuable genetic and morphological information on rare and subendemic Swertia species in Mongolia, which can be used for further advanced studies on the Swertia genus.
Carboxyhemoglobin predicts oxygenator performance and imminent oxygenator change in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Erlebach Rolf , Buhlmann Alix , Andermatt Rea , Seeliger Benjamin , Stahl Klaus , Bode Christian , Schuepbach Reto , Wendel-Garcia Pedro David , David Sascha ,   the BonHanZA (Bonn-Hannover-Zurich-ARDS) study group, Kleinert Eva-Maria , Hofmaenner Daniel Andrea , Müller Mattia M , Ganter Christoph Camille , Welte Tobias , Pape Thorben , Rath Ann-Kathrin , Nalbant Bahar , Ruwisch Jannik , Putensen Christian , Peukert Konrad , Sauer Andrea , Wild Lennart
Published: April 2024

Background

The continuous exposure of blood to a non-biological surface during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may lead to progressive thrombus formation in the oxygenator, hemolysis and consequently impaired gas exchange. In most centers oxygenator performance is monitored only on a once daily basis. Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) is generated upon red cell lysis and is routinely measured with any co-oximetry performed to surveille gas exchange and acid–base homeostasis every couple of hours. This retrospective cohort study aims to evaluate COHb in the arterial blood gas as a novel marker of oxygenator dysfunction and its predictive value for imminent oxygenator change.

Results

Out of the 484 screened patients on ECMO 89, cumulatively requiring 116 oxygenator changes within 1833 patient days, including 19,692 arterial COHb measurements were analyzed. Higher COHb levels were associated with lower post-oxygenator pO2 (estimate for log(COHb): − 2.176 [95% CI − 2.927, − 1.427], p < 0.0001) and with a shorter time to oxygenator change (estimate for log(COHb): − 67.895 [95% CI − 74.209, − 61.542] hours, p < 0.0001). COHb was predictive of oxygenator change within 6 h (estimate for log(COHb): 5.027 [95% CI 1.670, 15.126], p = 0.004).

Conclusion

COHb correlates with oxygenator performance and can be predictive of imminent oxygenator change. Therefore, longitudinal measurements of COHb in clinical routine might be a cheap and more granular candidate for ECMO surveillance that should be further analyzed in a controlled prospective trial design.
Incomplete bowel obstruction caused by sigmoid colon cancer in an inguinal hernia: a case report
Authors: Sujino Hiroki , Gon Hideki , Shimoda Yota , Takishita Chie , Enomoto Masanobu , Tachibana Shingo , Kasuya Kazuhiko , Nagakawa Yuichi
Published: April 2024

Background

Most colon cancers that develop in the intestinal tract within the inguinal hernia sac are identified by incarceration. However, treatment methods for these cases vary depending on the pathology. Cases showing perforation or abscess formation require emergency surgery for infection control, while cases with no infection generally involve oncological resection, with laparoscopic surgery also being an option. We encountered a case of Incomplete bowel obstruction secondary to sigmoid colon cancer within the hernial sac. We report the process leading to the selection of the treatment method and the surgical technique, along with a review of the literature.

Case presentation

A 79-year-old man presented to our hospital complaining of a left inguinal bulge (hernia) and pain in the same area. The patient had the hernia for more than 20 years. Using computed tomography, we diagnosed an incomplete bowel obstruction caused by a tumor of the intestinal tract within the hernial sac. Since imaging examination showed no signs of strangulation or perforation, we decided to perform elective surgery after a definitive diagnosis. After colonoscopy, we diagnosed sigmoid colon cancer with extra-serosal invasion; however, we could not insert a colorectal tube. Although we proposed sigmoid resection and temporary ileostomy, we chose the open Hartmann procedure because the patient wanted a single surgery. For the hernia, we simultaneously used the Iliopubic Tract Repair method, which does not require a mesh. Eight months after the surgery, no recurrence of cancer or hernia was observed.

Conclusions

We report a case of advanced sigmoid colon cancer with a long-standing inguinal hernia that later became incomplete bowel obstruction. Although previous studies have used various approaches among the available surgical methods for cancer within the hernial sac, such as inguinal incision, laparotomy, and laparoscopic surgery, most hernias are repaired during the initial surgery using a non-mesh method. For patients with inguinal hernias that have become difficult to treat, the complications of malignancy should be taken into consideration and the treatment option should be chosen according to the pathophysiology.
Outcomes of nonrejection in weakly fluorescent intestine detected by indocyanine green fluorescence angiography: a case series of infants
Authors: Hashizume Naoki , Yoneda Akihiro , Ozeki Genta , Saito Takeshi , Fujiogi Michimasa , Kano Motohiro , Yamamoto Yuki , Ishimaru Tetsuya , Kanamori Yutaka , Fujino Akihiro
Published: April 2024

Background

Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography, a validated noninvasive imaging technique, is used to assess tissue vascularization. Here, we report three infant patients who underwent intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography and suffered from postoperative complications caused by the lack of weak fluorescent intestinal resection and assessed residual intestinal perfusion.

Case presentation

We observed the clinical characteristics and operative findings of patients treated from January 2022 to December 2022. Indocyanine green (0.5 mg/kg) was intravenously injected. The first patient was a 29-day-old girl with surgical necrotizing enterocolitis who underwent intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography at the first- and second-look operations. The proximal jejunum was difficult to diagnose to detect blood flow during the second-look operation. The second patient was a 32-day-old boy with surgical necrotizing enterocolitis. A part of the antimesenteric mucosa of the patient that exhibited weak fluorescence was preserved; however, it formed postoperative hematomas. The third patient was a 30-day-old boy with midgut volvulus. Weak fluorescence in the intestinal wall was observed 5 cm of the small intestine from the ileocecal valve was preserved, but it formed a stricture, and the patient underwent ileocecal resection after 30 days.

Conclusions

Weak fluorescence in the intestine in infants by performing indocyanine green fluorescence angiography is associated with a high risk of non-recovering ischemic lesions and postoperative complications.
The power of financial support in accelerating digital transformation and corporate innovation in China: evidence from banking and capital markets
Authors: Du Zhuoya , Wang Qian
Published: April 2024

This study explores the role of financial support in the digital transformation of Chinese A-share-listed companies from 2001 to 2020. By utilizing the moderating effect model and threshold regression model, this study finds the following results: (1) Digital transformation positively impacts innovation, and the support of banking and capital markets further strengthens this impact. (2) With the development of banking and capital markets, the impact of digital transformation on innovation changes from negative to positive, which is also reflected in the subsamples of Eastern companies, small and medium-sized companies (SMEs), and non-SMEs. (3) The study reveals that only the capital market in the non-Eastern region has no threshold, and capital market support is effective only for non-SMEs when it reaches a higher level. These findings have important implications for policymakers in promoting digital transformation through financial support and help companies understand how to use financial support to improve competitiveness.
Effects of autoclaving and disinfection on 3D surgical guides using LCD technology for dental implant
Authors: Labakoum Badreddine , Farhan Amr , Taleb Lhoucine Ben , Mouhsen Azeddine , Lyazidi Aissam
Published: April 2024

Background

Surgical guides can improve the precision of implant placement and minimize procedural errors and their related complications. This study aims to determine how different disinfection and sterilization methods affect the size changes of drill guide templates and the mechanical properties of 3D-printed surgical guides made with LCD technology.

Methods

We produced a total of 100 samples. Forty surgical guides were fabricated to assess the implant drill guides’ surface and geometric properties. We subjected sixty samples to mechanical tests to analyze their tensile, flexural, and compressive properties. We classified the samples into four groups based on each analytical method: GC, which served as the control group; GA, which underwent autoclave sterilization at 121 °C (+ 1 bar, 20 min); GB, which underwent autoclave sterilization at 134 °C (+ 2 bar, 10 min); and GL, which underwent disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol for 20 min.

Result

The results show that sterilization at 121 °C and 134 °C affects the mechanical and geometric characteristics of the surgical guides, while disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol gives better results.

Conclusion

Our study of 3D-printed surgical guides using LCD technology found that sterilization at high temperatures affects the guides’ mechanical and geometric properties. Instead, disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol is recommended.
Impact of green technology and energy on green economic growth: role of FDI and globalization in G7 economies
Authors: Wani Mohammad Jibran Gul , Loganathan Nanthakumar , Esmail Hanaa Abdelaty Hasan
Published: April 2024

With the increase in economic growth, the world is facing serious challenges concerning environmental sustainability. Hence, the green economic growth is imperative for sustainable and inclusive development. The objective of this study is to contribute to the existing literature about the factors that influence green economic growth. The study investigates the role of green technology, green energy, foreign direct investment, and globalization on green economic growth in G7 countries. The data of the study is collected from WDI, KOF Swiss Economic Institute, and OECD database and the data period ranges from 1995 to 2020. The existence of cointegration between the variables of the study was tested by Westerlund’s (Oxford Bull Econ Stat 69(6):709–748) cointegration test. Due to the presence of cross-sectional dependency, the study employed the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) method to estimate the coefficients in the long and short run. The study also used a common correlated effect—mean group (CCEMG) estimator for robustness check. The findings of the study reveal that green energy and FDI positively contribute to green economic growth in the long and short run. The green technology also contributes positively to enhance green economic growth but only in long run. To accelerate green economic growth, G7 countries should incorporate policies promoting green energy and technology, while acquiring more foreign investments to ensure a sustainable development.
Role of inferior vena cava assessment in volume management in acute kidney injury patients
Authors: AbdulGalil Ahmed ElSaeed , Abdelhalem Aya Fathi , Eldeeb Ahmed Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Background

Intravascular volume assessment is critical to guiding volume management in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aimed to compare the impact of using inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter and collapsibility index (IVC-CI) measurements versus clinical assessment on the management of volume status and improvement of renal function in patients with AKI.

Methods

This prospective comparative study included 88 patients with AKI or AKI on top of chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were randomly allocated into two groups: In group 1, volume status was managed according to IVC assessment, while in group 2, volume status was managed according to clinical assessment. In addition, group 1 patients were assessed clinically and compared with IVC measurements in the same group.

Results

There was moderate agreement between the IVC and clinical methods in diagnosing 86.4% of patients (P < 0.001) within group 1. The percentage of patients with edema increased post-treatment in group 2. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding renal recovery and survival.

Conclusion

Bedside ultrasonographic IVC assessment is a non-invasive method that can facilitate volume management in AKI patients, helping to administer fluids more wisely without unintended excess fluid administration.
Perspectives on the use of Virtual Reality within a public hospital setting: surveying knowledge, attitudes, and perceived utility among health care professionals
Authors: Shiner Christine T. , Croker Gabrielle , McGhee John , Faux Steven G.
Published: April 2024

Background

Virtual reality (VR) is a burgeoning technology within healthcare, though routine implementation of VR within hospital settings remains limited. Health professionals are key stakeholders in knowledge translation, though limited research has explored their knowledge and attitudes towards using VR for different purposes within healthcare. This study aimed to scope health professionals’ knowledge of, and attitudes towards, the use of VR applications in a public hospital setting.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of multidisciplinary health professionals (medical, nursing, allied health professionals) was conducted in a major metropolitan public hospital in Australia. The custom survey was comprised of 28 mixed categorical and free-text fields designed to scope levels of knowledge, prior experience, and interest in VR; the perceived utility of VR within a hospital context; and perceived barriers and enablers of VR use within the hospital setting. Data were analyzed via descriptive and non-parametric statistics.

Results

One hundred and thirty-seven health professionals participated (38% allied health, 37% nursing, 24% medical). The majority had no prior exposure to VR in clinical (95%) or recreational (67%) settings; and only 16% were aware of any clinical research evidence for VR. Despite limited awareness, participants expressed support for VR use in hospitals. 99% reported VR had potential utility in healthcare, most commonly for clinical simulations (81%), clinical education (80%) and as a physical therapy tool (68%). Participants identified multiple barriers to VR implementation most commonly relating to perceived cost, lack of required infrastructure, time, knowledge and technical skill. Prominent enablers related to increasing capability at provider and system levels. Participants’ familiarity with VR was associated with stronger support for its’ use (Rho = 0.4, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Health professionals in the hospital workforce reported limited knowledge and familiarity with VR; yet they perceived VR had broad utility and expressed overall support for different VR applications within hospitals. Health professionals appear interested in VR though face multiple barriers to its use in a hospital context. Increasing capability among multidisciplinary health providers and the wider hospital system appear to be important considerations for the success of future VR implementation in public hospitals.