bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Amine and Aldehyde-Containing Copolymers for Enzymatic Crosslinking of Gelatine
Authors: Alfei Silvana , Pintaudi Federica , Zuccari Guendalina
Published: March 2024

In tissue engineering (TE), the support structure (scaffold) plays a key role necessary for cell adhesion and proliferation. The protein constituents of the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as collagen, its derivative gelatine, and elastin, are the most attractive materials as possible scaffolds. To improve the modest mechanical properties of gelatine, a strategy consists of crosslinking it, as naturally occurs for collagen, which is stiffened by the oxidative action of lysyl oxidase (LO). Here, a novel protocol to crosslink gelatine has been developed, not using the commonly employed crosslinkers, but based on the formation of imine bonds or on aldolic condensation reactions occurring between gelatine and properly synthesized copolymers containing amine residues via LO-mediated oxidation. Particularly, we first synthesized and characterized an amino butyl styrene monomer (5), its copolymers with dimethylacrylamide (DMAA), and its terpolymer with DMAA and acrylic acid (AA). Three acryloyl amidoamine monomers (11a–c) and their copolymers with DMAA were then prepared. A methacrolein (MA)/DMAA copolymer already possessing the needed aldehyde groups was finally developed to investigate the relevance of LO in the crosslinking process. Oxidation tests of amine copolymers with LO were performed to identify the best substrates to be used in experiments of gelatine reticulation. Copolymers obtained with 5, 11b, and 11c were excellent substrates for LO and were employed with MA/DMAA copolymers in gelatine crosslinking tests in different conditions. Among the amine-containing copolymers, that obtained with 5 (CP5/DMMA-43.1) afforded a material (M21) with the highest crosslinking percentage (71%). Cytotoxicity experiments carried out on two cell lines (IMR-32 and SH SY5Y) with the analogous (P5) of the synthetic constituent of M21 (CP5/DMAA) had evidenced no significant reduction in cell viability, but proliferation promotion, thus establishing the biocompatibility of M21 and the possibility to develop it as a new scaffold for TE, upon further investigations.
Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography–Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange–Mass Spectrometry (HILIC-HDX-MS) for Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Cajka Tomas , Hricko Jiri , Rakusanova Stanislava , Brejchova Kristyna , Novakova Michaela , Rudl Kulhava Lucie , Hola Veronika , Paucova Michaela , Fiehn Oliver , Kuda Ondrej
Published: March 2024

Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolomics detects thousands of molecular features (retention time–m/z pairs) in biological samples per analysis, yet the metabolite annotation rate remains low, with 90% of signals classified as unknowns. To enhance the metabolite annotation rates, researchers employ tandem mass spectral libraries and challenging in silico fragmentation software. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) may offer an additional layer of structural information in untargeted metabolomics, especially for identifying specific unidentified metabolites that are revealed to be statistically significant. Here, we investigate the potential of hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC)-HDX-MS in untargeted metabolomics. Specifically, we evaluate the effectiveness of two approaches using hypothetical targets: the post-column addition of deuterium oxide (D2O) and the on-column HILIC-HDX-MS method. To illustrate the practical application of HILIC-HDX-MS, we apply this methodology using the in silico fragmentation software MS-FINDER to an unknown compound detected in various biological samples, including plasma, serum, tissues, and feces during HILIC-MS profiling, subsequently identified as N1-acetylspermidine.
Monocytes as Targets for Immunomodulation by Regional Citrate Anticoagulation
Authors: Di Marco Giovana Seno , Chasan Achmet Imam , Boeckel Göran Ramin , Beul Katrin , Pavenstädt Hermann , Roth Johannes , Brand Marcus
Published: March 2024

Immune alterations in end-stage renal patients receiving hemodialysis are complex and predispose patients to infections. Anticoagulation may also play an immunomodulatory role in addition to the accumulation of uremic toxins and the effects of the dialysis procedure. Accordingly, it has been recently shown that the infection rate increases in patients under regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) compared with systemic heparin anticoagulation (SHA). We hypothesized that RCA affects the immune status of hemodialysis patients by targeting monocytes. In a cohort of 38 end-stage renal patients undergoing hemodialysis, we demonstrated that whole blood monocytes of patients receiving RCA—but not SHA—failed to upregulate surface activation markers, like human leukocyte antigen class II (HLA-DR), after stressful insults, indicating a state of deactivation during and immediately after dialysis. Additionally, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data and gene set enrichment analysis of pre-dialysis monocytes evidenced a great and complex difference between the groups given that, in the RCA group, monocytes displayed a dramatic transcriptional change with increased expression of genes related to the cell cycle regulation, cellular metabolism, and cytokine signaling, compatible with the reprogramming of the immune response. Transcriptomic changes in pre-dialysis monocytes signalize the lasting nature of the RCA-related effects, suggesting that monocytes are affected even beyond the dialysis session. Furthermore, these findings demonstrate that RCA—but not SHA—impairs the response of monocytes to activation stimuli and alters the immune status of these patients with potential clinical implications.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid Modulates Transient Receptor Potential V1 Expression in Specific Brain Areas in a Mouse Fibromyalgia Pain Model
Authors: Liao Hsien-Yin , Yen Chia-Ming , Hsiao I-Han , Hsu Hsin-Cheng , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: March 2024

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience accompanied by tissue injury. Often, an individual’s experience can be influenced by different physiological, psychological, and social factors. Fibromyalgia, one of the most difficult-to-treat types of pain, is characterized by general muscle pain accompanied by obesity, fatigue, sleep, and memory and psychological concerns. Fibromyalgia increases nociceptive sensations via central sensitization in the brain and spinal cord level. We used intermittent cold stress to create a mouse fibromyalgia pain model via a von Frey test (day 0: 3.69 ± 0.14 g; day 5: 2.13 ± 0.12 g). Mechanical pain could be reversed by eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) administration (day 0: 3.72 ± 0.14 g; day 5: 3.69 ± 0.13 g). A similar trend could also be observed for thermal hyperalgesia. The levels of elements in the transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1) signaling pathway were increased in the ascending pain pathway, including the thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex, somatosensory cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and cerebellum. EPA intake significantly attenuated this overexpression. A novel chemogenetics method was used to inhibit SSC and ACC activities, which presented an analgesic effect through the TRPV1 downstream pathway. The present results provide insights into the role of the TRPV1 signaling pathway for fibromyalgia and its potential as a clinical target.
Bone Health Impairment in Patients with Hemoglobinopathies: From Biological Bases to New Possible Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Di Paola Alessandra , Marrapodi Maria Maddalena , Di Martino Martina , Giliberti Giulia , Di Feo Giuseppe , Rana Deeksha , Ahmed Shakeel , Argenziano Maura , Rossi Francesca , Roberti Domenico
Published: March 2024

Hemoglobinopathies are monogenic disorders affecting hemoglobin synthesis. Thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) are considered the two major hemoglobinopathies. Thalassemia is a genetic disorder and one of the major hemoglobinopathies determined by an impairment of globin chain production, which causes an alteration of erythropoiesis, an improvement in hemolysis, and an alteration of iron homoeostasis. In SCD, the mutations are on the β-globin chain of hemoglobin which results in a substitution of glutamic acid by valine with consequent formation of Hemoglobin S (HbS). Several factors are involved in bone metabolism alteration in patients with hemoglobinopathies, among them hormonal deficiency, bone marrow hyperplasia, iron overload, inflammation, and increased bone turnover. Bone metabolism is the result of balance maintenance between bone deposition and bone resorption, by osteoblasts (OBs) and osteoclasts (OCs). An impairment of this balance is responsible for the onset of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis (OP). Therefore, here we will discuss the alteration of bone metabolism in patients with hemoglobinopathies and the possible therapeutic strategies to contain and/or counteract bone health impairment in these patients, taking into consideration not only the pharmacological treatments already used in the clinical armamentarium, but also the new possible therapeutic strategies.
Animals in Respiratory Research
Authors: Fröhlich Eleonore
Published: March 2024

The respiratory barrier, a thin epithelial barrier that separates the interior of the human body from the environment, is easily damaged by toxicants, and chronic respiratory diseases are common. It also allows the permeation of drugs for topical treatment. Animal experimentation is used to train medical technicians, evaluate toxicants, and develop inhaled formulations. Species differences in the architecture of the respiratory tract explain why some species are better at predicting human toxicity than others. Some species are useful as disease models. This review describes the anatomical differences between the human and mammalian lungs and lists the characteristics of currently used mammalian models for the most relevant chronic respiratory diseases (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary fibrosis, and tuberculosis). The generation of animal models is not easy because they do not develop these diseases spontaneously. Mouse models are common, but other species are more appropriate for some diseases. Zebrafish and fruit flies can help study immunological aspects. It is expected that combinations of in silico, in vitro, and in vivo (mammalian and invertebrate) models will be used in the future for drug development.
Use of the Proboscis Extension Response Assay to Evaluate the Mechanism of House Fly Behavioral Resistance to Imidacloprid
Authors: D’Arco Sara , Maistrello Lara , Hubbard Caleb B. , Murillo Amy C. , Gerry Alec C.
Published: March 2024

The house fly, Musca domestica L., is a significant human and livestock pest. Experiments used female adult house flies glued onto toothpicks for controlled exposure of their tarsi alone (tarsal assay) or their tarsi and proboscis (proboscis assay) with a sucrose solution containing imidacloprid at either a low (10 µg/mL) or high (4000 µg/mL) concentration. Proboscis extension response (PER) assays were used to characterize the response of imidacloprid-susceptible and behaviorally resistant house fly strains to contact with sucrose solutions containing either a low or high concentration of imidacloprid. In each assay, 150 female flies from each fly strain were individually exposed to sucrose solutions containing either a low or high concentration of imidacloprid by deliberate contact of the fly tarsi to the test solution. The PER for each fly was subsequently recorded at 0, 2, and 10 s following the initial tarsal contact. A significant and rapid reduction in PER was observed only for the behaviorally resistant fly strain and only following contact by the flies’ proboscis with the sucrose solution containing the high imidacloprid concentration. The results suggest that chemoreceptors on the fly labellum or internally on the pharyngeal taste organs are involved in the detection of imidacloprid and discrimination of the concentration, resulting in an avoidance behavior (proboscis retraction) only when imidacloprid is at sufficient concentration. Further research is needed to identify the specific receptor(s) responsible for imidacloprid detection.
Recent Advances across the Spectrum of Heart Failure and Heart Transplant
Authors: Masarone Daniele , Lombardi Carlo , Falco Luigi , Coscioni Enrico , Metra Marco
Published: March 2024

In recent years, remarkable progress has been accomplished in the heart failure (HF) landscape, with novel drugs and groundbreaking device approaches [...]
Unraveling the Puzzle: Health Benefits of Probiotics—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Gul Sabiha , Durante-Mangoni Emanuele
Published: March 2024

A growing number of probiotic-containing products are on the market, and their use is increasing. Probiotics are thought to support the health of the gut microbiota, which in turn might prevent or delay the onset of gastrointestinal tract disorders. Obesity, type 2 diabetes, autism, osteoporosis, and some immunological illnesses are among the conditions that have been shown to possibly benefit from probiotics. In addition to their ability to favorably affect diseases, probiotics represent a defense system enhancing intestinal, nutritional, and oral health. Depending on the type of microbial strain utilized, probiotics can have variable beneficial properties. Although many microbial species are available, the most widely employed ones are lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria. The usefulness of these bacteria is dependent on both their origin and their capacity to promote health. Probiotics represent a valuable clinical tool supporting gastrointestinal health, immune system function, and metabolic balance. When used appropriately, probiotics may provide benefits such as a reduced risk of gastrointestinal disorders, enhanced immunity, and improved metabolic health. Most popular probiotics, their health advantages, and their mode of action are the topic of this narrative review article, aimed to provide the reader with a comprehensive reappraisal of this topic matter.
Evaluating the Effects of an Enhanced Strength Training Program in Remote Cardiological Rehabilitation: A Shift from Aerobic Dominance—A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nabutovsky Irene , Sabah Roy , Moreno Merav , Epstein Yoram , Klempfner Robert , Scheinowitz Mickey
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Cardiac rehabilitation often emphasizes aerobic capacity while overlooking the importance of muscle strength. This study evaluated the impact of an enhanced remote strength training program (RCR-ST) on cardiac rehabilitation. (2) Methods: In this randomized prospective study (RCT registration number SMC-9080-22), 50 patients starting cardiac rehabilitation were assessed for muscle strength, aerobic capacity, and self-reported outcomes at baseline and after 16 weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: the RCR-ST group received a targeted resistance training program via a mobile app and smartwatch, while the control group received standard care with general resistance training advice. (3) Results: The RCR-ST group demonstrated significant improvements in muscle endurance, notably in leg extension and chest press exercises, with increases of 92% compared to 25% and 92% compared to 13% in the control group, respectively. Functional assessments (5-STS and TUG tests) also showed marked improvements in agility, coordination, and balance. Both groups improved in cardiorespiratory fitness, similarly. The RCR-ST group reported enhanced physical health and showed increased engagement, as evidenced by more frequent use of the mobile app and longer participation in the rehabilitation program (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Incorporating a focused strength training regimen in remote cardiac rehabilitation significantly improves muscle endurance and patient engagement. The RCR-ST program presents a promising approach for optimizing patient outcomes by addressing a crucial gap in traditional rehabilitation protocols that primarily focus on aerobic training.
Orchestrating Resilience: How Neuropilin-2 and Macrophages Contribute to Cardiothoracic Disease
Authors: Dhupar Rajeev , Powers Amy A. , Eisenberg Seth H. , Gemmill Robert M. , Bardawil Charles E. , Udoh Hannah M. , Cubitt Andrea , Nangle Leslie A. , Soloff Adam C.
Published: March 2024

Immunity has evolved to balance the destructive nature of inflammation with wound healing to overcome trauma, infection, environmental insults, and rogue malignant cells. The inflammatory response is marked by overlapping phases of initiation, resolution, and post-resolution remodeling. However, the disruption of these events can lead to prolonged tissue damage and organ dysfunction, resulting long-term disease states. Macrophages are the archetypic phagocytes present within all tissues and are important contributors to these processes. Pleiotropic and highly plastic in their responses, macrophages support tissue homeostasis, repair, and regeneration, all while balancing immunologic self-tolerance with the clearance of noxious stimuli, pathogens, and malignant threats. Neuropilin-2 (Nrp2), a promiscuous co-receptor for growth factors, semaphorins, and integrins, has increasingly been recognized for its unique role in tissue homeostasis and immune regulation. Notably, recent studies have begun to elucidate the role of Nrp2 in both non-hematopoietic cells and macrophages with cardiothoracic disease. Herein, we describe the unique role of Nrp2 in diseases of the heart and lung, with an emphasis on Nrp2 in macrophages, and explore the potential to target Nrp2 as a therapeutic intervention.
Lung Cancer in Women—Sociodemographic, Clinical and Psychological Characteristics with Comparison to Men
Authors: Trojnar Anna , Knetki-Wróblewska Magdalena , Sobieraj Piotr , Domagała-Kulawik Joanna
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: There is a difference in the course of lung cancer between women and men. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate various factors in the patient population treated in daily practice. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical, sociodemographic and psychological aspects of female lung cancer. To better express the results, we compared women and men. (2) Methods: Consecutive patients with a history of lung cancer treatment admitted to the outpatient oncology clinic (Department of Lung Cancer and Chest Tumours, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw) and the Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, were enrolled. We conducted analyses of the clinical, psychological and socioeconomic factors of women with lung cancer treated in everyday practice, including a comparison with a group of men. Demographic data were collected from a self-administered questionnaire. We used the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS) questionnaires for psychological evaluation. (3) Results: A total of 100 patients with confirmed primary lung cancer with a history of treatment were enrolled in the study (50 women and 50 men). We found a significantly shorter history of smoking in the group of women; at the same time, there were no differences in the reported incidence of COPD. Despite comparable results to men on the psychological questionnaire (PSS-10, AIS), women more often reported a willingness to be supported by a psychologist or psychiatrist due to lung cancer. However, they did not decide to consult them more often than men. Immunotherapy was a significantly less frequently used method in women. (4) Conclusions: We should be more active in finding out the willingness to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist among women with lung cancer. The diagnosis of COPD should be considered more often among women due to the lack of differences in the reported incidence of COPD between men and women, despite a clear contrast in the number of pack-years.
The Influence of Temporary Epiphysiodesis of the Proximal End of the Tibia on the Shape of the Knee Joint in Children Treated for Leg Length Discrepancy
Authors: Starobrat Grzegorz , Danielewicz Anna , Szponder Tomasz , Wójciak Magdalena , Sowa Ireneusz , Różańska-Boczula Monika , Latalski Michał
Published: March 2024

Background: Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common problem in the daily clinical practice of pediatric orthopedists. Surgical treatment using LLD temporary epiphysiodesis with eight-plate implants is a minimally invasive, safe, and well-tolerated procedure that provides good treatment effects with a relatively low percentage of complications. The main aim of this retrospective study was to determine the effect of epiphysiodesis on the shape of the proximal tibia. Methods: The retrospective study was based on medical records from 2010 to 2019. Radiographs taken before the epiphysiodesis and at 6-month intervals until the end of the treatment were investigated. A total of 60 patients treated for LLD were included in the study (24 girls, 36 boys). They were divided into three groups depending on the duration of the LLD treatment: group I (18 months), group II (30 months), and group III (42 months of treatment). Radiological parameters were assessed, including the roof angle (D), the slope angles (α and β), and the specific parameters of the tibial epiphysis, namely LTH (lateral tubercle height), MTH (medial tubercle height), and TW (tibial width). Results: The roof angle decreased in all the groups, which was accompanied by an increase in the β or α angle. LTH, MTH and TW also increased, and the differences before and after the treatment for the treated legs were statistically significant in all the studied groups. The greatest change in the shape of the articular surface of the proximal tibia occurred after 42 months of treatment. Conclusions: The study showed that epiphysiodesis affects the proximal tibial articular surface over prolonged treatment. Thus, there is a need for future long-term follow-up studies to elucidate the potential effects of LLD egalization.
Recent Insights and Recommendations for Preventing Excessive Gestational Weight Gain
Authors: Niebrzydowska-Tatus Magdalena , Pełech Aleksandra , Rekowska Anna , Satora Małgorzata , Masiarz Angelika , Kabała Zuzanna , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Trojnar Marcin
Published: March 2024

Recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy are based on pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). Pregnancy is a risk factor for excessive weight gain and many endocrine problems, making it difficult to return to pre-pregnancy weight and increasing the risk of postpartum obesity and, consequently, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Both excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) and obesity are associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, shoulder dystocia, and neonatal macrosomia. In the long term, EGWG is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly from diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and some cancers. This study aims to present recommendations from various societies regarding weight gain during pregnancy, dietary guidance, and physical activity. In addition, we discuss the pathophysiology of this complication and the differential diagnosis in pregnant women with EGWG. According to our research, inadequate nutrition might contribute more significantly to the development of EGWG than insufficient physical activity levels in pregnant women. Telehealth systems seem to be a promising direction for future EGWG prevention by motivating women to exercise. Although the importance of adequate pre-pregnancy weight and weight gain during pregnancy is well known, an increasing number of women gain excessive weight during pregnancy.
Postoperative Myocardial Infarction after Non-Cardiac Surgery: An Update
Authors: Rostagno Carlo , Craighero Anna
Published: March 2024

Every year, not less than 300 million non-cardiac surgery interventions are performed in the world. Perioperative mortality after non-cardiac surgery is estimated at 2% in patients over 45 years of age. Cardiovascular events account for half of these deaths, and most are due to perioperative myocardial infarction (MINS). The diagnosis of postoperative myocardial infarction, before the introduction of cardiac biomarkers, was based on symptoms and electrocardiographic changes and its incidence was largely underestimated. The incidence of MINS when a standard troponin assay is used ranges between 8 and 19% but increases to 20–30% with high-sensitivity troponin assays. Higher troponin values suggesting myocardial injury, both with or without a definite diagnosis of myocardial infarction, are associated with an increase in 30-day and 1-year mortality. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are reported.
Can Multifrequency Tympanometry Be Used in the Diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tsilivigkos Christos , Vitkos Evangelos N. , Ferekidis Eleftherios , Warnecke Athanasia
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Ménière’s disease (MD) is a disease of the inner ear, presenting with episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.The aim of this study is to examine the role of multifrequency tympanometry (MFT) in the diagnosis of MD. (2) Methods: A systematic review of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library was performed, aligned with the PRISMA guidelines. Only studies that directly compare ears affected by Ménière’s disease with unaffected or control ears were included. Random-effects model meta-analyses were performed. (3) Results: Seven prospective case-control studies reported a total of 899 ears, 282 of which were affected by Ménière’s disease (affected ears—AE), 197 unaffected ears in patients with MD (UE), and 420 control ears (CE) in healthy controls. No statistically significant differences between the groups were observed regarding resonant frequency (RF). The pure tone audiometry average of the lower frequencies (PTA basic) was significantly greater in affected ears when compared with unaffected ears. The conductance tympanogram at 2 kHz revealed a statistically significantly greater G width of 2 kHz in the affected ears when compared to both unaffected and control ears, while control ears had a statistically significant lesser G width of 2 kHz compared to both the other two groups. (4) Conclusions: MFT, and specifically G width at 2 kHz, could be an important tool in the diagnosis of MD.
Post-Discectomy Infection: A Critical Review and Suggestion of a Management Algorithm
Authors: Chaniotakis Constantinos , Koutserimpas Christos , Tsantes Andreas G. , Papadopoulos Dimitrios V. , Tsiridis Christothea-Alexandra , Karantanas Apostolos , Alpantaki Kalliopi , Hadjipavlou Alexander
Published: March 2024

Postoperative discitis (POD) accounts for 20% to 30% of all cases of pyogenic spondylodiscitis, while POD may be mis-or-under-diagnosed, due to the vague related symptomatology and the non-specific imaging findings. Most studies report infection rate of less than 1%, which increases with the addition of non-instrumented fusion to 2.4% to 6.2%. It remains controversial whether POD is caused by an aseptic or infectious process. Positive cultures are presented only in 42–73% of patients with Staphylococcus species being the most common invading organisms, while Staphylococcus aureus is isolated in almost 50% of cases. The onset of POD symptoms usually occurs at 2–4 weeks after an apparently uneventful operation. Back pain and muscle spasms are usually refractory to bed rest and analgesics. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive and specific imaging diagnostic technique. Antimicrobial therapy depends on the results of tissue cultures, and along with bracing represents the mainstay of management. Surgical intervention is necessary in patients failing conservative treatment. For the majority of cases, extensive surgical debridement, antibiotic therapy, and orthosis immobilization are effective in eliminating the infection. According to this, we recommend an Algorithmic approach for the management of POD. Postoperative infections after spinal surgery pose a certain clinical challenge, and in most cases can be treated conservatively. Nevertheless, disability may be persistent, and surgery could be necessary. The purpose of this concise review is to describe the manifestation of post-discectomy infection, its pathogenesis and particularly a rational approach for its management.
Cardiovascular Outcomes after Paclitaxel-Coated Balloon Angioplasty versus Drug-Eluting Stent Placement for Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kondo Yuki , Ishikawa Tetsuya , Shimura Masatoshi , Yamada Kota , Ukaji Tomoaki , Tamura Yohei , Arai Miona , Mori Kahoko , Takeyama Taro , Hori Yuichi , Hisauchi Itaru , Nakahara Shiro , Itabashi Yuji , Kobayashi Sayuki , Taguchi Isao
Published: March 2024

Background: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the feasibility of paclitaxel-coated balloon (PCB) angioplasty for de novo lesions in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) by comparing with drug-eluting stent (DES) placement. Methods: By a systematic literature search, nine (five randomized controlled, two retrospective propensity-score matched, and two retrospective baseline-balanced) studies comparing the midterm clinical and angiographic outcomes after PCB angioplasty and DES placement were included, yielding 974 and 1130 ACS cases in PCB and DES groups, respectively. Major adverse cardiac event (MACE) was defined as a composite of cardiac mortality (CM), all-cause mortality (ACM), myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and target lesion revascularization (TLR). Late luminal loss (LLL) and bleeding events (BLD) were also estimated. Results: The frequencies of MACE in PCB and DES groups were 8.42% and 10.62%, respectively. PCB angioplasty had no significant impacts on all of MACE (risk ratio: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.68–1.18, p = 0.44), CM, ACM, MI, TVR, TLR, BLD, and LLL, compared to DES placement in random-effects model. Conclusions: The present systematic review and meta-analysis showed the feasibility of PCB angioplasty for the de novo lesions in patients with ACS in comparison with DES placement by the emergent procedures.
The Correlation between Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin and Clinical Characteristics According to Anti-Müllerian Hormone in Women with Regular Menstrual Cycles: A Prospective Study
Authors: Keum Jihyun , Kim Yong Jin , Choi Sae Kyung , Lee Won Moo , Bae Jaeman
Published: March 2024

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can be diagnosed when the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels are high, but in clinic, women who do not meet the diagnosis of PCOS but have elevated AMH levels are often seen. This study aimed to compare the differences in menstrual cycle patterns and hormone levels in women with regular menstrual cycles, but not PCOS, by dividing them into high and low AMH groups. Material and Methods: This multicenter prospective study included 68 healthy women. Participants with regular menstrual cycles were divided into two groups according to their AMH levels. The main outcome measures were menstrual cycle pattern, body mass index, and hormone levels (thyroid stimulating hormone, prolactin, testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, and free androgen index), which were compared between the groups according to AMH levels. The ovulation was assessed by performing pelvic ultrasound, and by assessing the hormone levels of the luteinizing hormone and progesterone. Results: The criteria for determining normal and high AMH levels were based on previous literatures. The participants were divided into normal (39 people) and high (29 people) AMH group. No differences were found in age or BMI between the two groups, and no other differences were observed in TSH, prolactin, testosterone, or free androgen index. However, the high AMH group had significantly higher SHBG levels than the normal group (normal group: 65.46 ± 25.78 nmol/L; high group: 87.08 ± 45.05 nmol/L) (p = 0.025). Conclusions: This study is the first to analyze the association between SHBG and AMH levels in women with regular menstrual cycles. Elevated AMH levels are associated with increased levels of SHBG levels.
The Association between Hormone Replacement Therapy and Gastroparesis in Post-Menopausal Women: A Worldwide Database Analysis
Authors: Khalil Jacqueline , Hill Hannah , Kaelber David , Song Gengqing
Published: March 2024

Female sex hormones have been hypothesized to influence the higher prevalence of gastroparesis in females. This study investigated the effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on gastroparesis and its related symptoms, medication use, and diagnostic testing in post-menopausal women. Utilizing the TriNetX platform, we conducted a population-based cohort study involving post-menopausal women aged 50 or older, with and without HRT. One-to-one propensity score matching was performed to adjust for age, race, ethnicity, diabetes, body mass index (BMI), and hemoglobin A1c. The exclusion criteria included functional dyspepsia, cyclic vomiting syndrome, and surgical procedures. After applying the exclusion criteria, we identified 78,192 post-menopausal women prescribed HRT and 1,604,822 not prescribed HRT. Post-propensity matching, each cohort comprised 67,874 patients. A total of 210 of the post-menopausal women prescribed HRT developed an ICD encounter diagnosis of gastroparesis at least 30 days after being prescribed HRT compared to post-menopausal women not prescribed HRT (OR = 1.23, 95% CI [1.01–1.51] p-value = 0.0395). These associations persisted in sensitivity analysis over 5 years (OR = 1.65, 95% CI [1.13–2.41] p-value = 0.0086). HRT was associated with increased GI symptoms, including early satiety (OR = 1.22, 95% CI [1.03–1.45] p-value = 0.0187), domperidone use (OR = 2.40, 95% CI [1.14–5.02] p-value = 0.0163), and undergoing gastric emptying studies (OR = 1.67, 95% CI [1.39–2.01] p-value < 0.0001). HRT is linked to an increased risk of developing an ICD encounter diagnosis of gastroparesis.
Fasting GLP-1 Levels and Albuminuria Are Negatively Associated in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Jang Cheol-Won , Yu Tae Yang , Jeong Jin Woo , Ha Se Eun , Singh Rajan , Lee Moon Young , Ro Seungil
Published: March 2024

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone known for its pivotal role in enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon release from the pancreas. Diabetic nephropathy, which is characterized by albuminuria, represents a significant microvascular complication of diabetes. Most of the previous studies mainly focused on the therapeutic renal protective effect in clinical trials after the administration of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), rather than before administration. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the association between fasting plasma GLP-1 levels and albuminuria before GLP-1 RA administration. A cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate the association between fasting plasma GLP-1 levels and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A cohort of 68 participants with T2DM was analyzed using data collected at Wonkwang University Hospital in Iksan, Korea. Logistic regression analysis was employed to determine the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the incidence of albuminuria between two groups categorized by fasting GLP-1 levels, low (Group L) and high GLP-1 (Group H). The OR (95% CI) for the incidence of albuminuria comparing Group L with Group H of fasting plasma GLP-1 levels was 3.41 (1.16–10.02), p = 0.03 after adjustment for relevant variables including age, gender, fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide, creatinine, and medication use [angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors]. When analyzed as a continuous variable, each 1 pmol/L reduction in fasting plasma GLP-1 levels was associated with an OR (95% CI) of 1.67 (1.17–1.87), p = 0.02, following full adjustment. These results highlight a negative association between fasting plasma GLP-1 levels and the incidence of albuminuria in Korean patients with T2DM, before GLP-1 RA administration. These findings suggest that endogenous GLP-1 may have a beneficial impact in mitigating albuminuria.
Impacts of Climate Change and Human Activity on Lakes around the Depression of Great Lakes in Mongolia
Authors: Yang Song , Zhou Hongfei , Liu Yan , Dorjsuren Batsuren , Demberel Otgonbayar , Batmunkh Dashlkham
Published: March 2024

The western region of Mongolia is characterized by an arid climate and a fragile ecological environment. It is a sensitive zone in response to global climate change and one of the major sources of dust globally. This region is home to numerous lakes, and their dynamic changes not only reflect global climate variations but also have implications for the global ecological environment quality. In this study, Landsat images were used as the data source, and Google Earth Engine (GEE) was employed to extract lakes with an area larger than 1 km2 from 1992 to 2021. The spatiotemporal characteristics of lake water area (LWA) changes were analyzed, and a structural equation model was applied to attribute the lake changes. The results indicate an overall trend of increasing lake area followed by a decrease in the study area. Specifically, lakes in the provinces of Khovd and Gobi-Altai exhibited a decreasing trend followed by an increasing trend, while lakes in the provinces of Uvs and Zavkhan showed an increasing trend followed by a decreasing trend. Three typical types of lakes, namely, alpine lakes, throughflow lakes, and terminal lakes, all exhibited a trend of increasing area followed by a decrease. The analysis of driving forces behind lake area changes reveals that climate change and human activities primarily exert indirect influences on the lake area changes in each province. Specifically, climate change and human activities lead to changes in soil moisture, which have a significant explanatory power for lake area changes. Regarding the typical types of lakes, climate change serves as the primary driving force for alpine lakes, while human activities are the main driving forces for throughflow lakes and terminal lakes.
Urban Complexity and the Dynamic Evolution of Urban Land Functions in Yiwu City: A Micro-Analysis with Multi-Source Big Data
Authors: Zhou Liangliang , Shi Yishao , Xie Mengqiu
Published: March 2024

The diversification of business forms leads to functional and spatial complexity in cities. The efficient determination of the complexity of an urban system is the basis for the scientific monitoring of the multi-functional aggregation within cities. Previous studies on the urban spatial structure were limited by the difficulty of collecting micro-data and the high time cost, and they focused on the macro-spatial structure, lacking fine-grained investigations of the micro-spatial structure. Additionally, high-resolution remote sensing images, which mainly rely on the textural characteristics of the spectrum of ground objects, cannot detect the social and economic functions of ground objects. Thus, it is difficult to meet the actual needs of urban planning and management. The purpose of this paper is to automatically identify the spatial heterogeneity and temporal variation of urban land use functions in the context of complex urban systems. The TF-IDF (term frequency–inverse document frequency) algorithm, a machine learning classification algorithm, and other methods are applied to identify the urban functions and distribution characteristics of the main urban area based on the POI (point of interest) data and urban form data. The results show the following: (1) From 2012 to 2022, all types of land use in Yiwu city grew at different rates, with logistics and warehousing space growing the fastest, which is in line with Yiwu’s goal of building a national logistics center for trade and services. (2) The residential area has a spatial structure with a dense central circle and a scattered periphery extending from northeast to southwest and from east to west. (3) The commercial service sector shows clear spatial differentiation between the core and the periphery. The commercial functional areas of Niansanli, Houzhai, and Chengxi, where the number of commercial POIs is relatively small, are located at the intersection of the administrative subdistricts near the city center, indicating that the commercial economic activities of the downtown subdistrict have a certain spillover effect on adjacent subdistricts. (4) The public facilities of each subdistrict are generally located in the core of each subdistrict, which ensures better convenience and accessibility. (5) Industrial land with a large total area that is scattered and mixed with urban residential land gradually tends to be centralized, forming an industrial belt around the city. This study comprehensively considers the aggregation relationship between urban buildings and land use and improves the accuracy of land identification and functional zoning.
Promoting Urban Innovation through Smart Cities: Evidence from a Quasi-Natural Experiment in China
Authors: Ji Mingbo , Jin Mengyun , Chen Lingyun , Liu Yuwei , Tian Yihao
Published: March 2024

It is of great theoretical and practical significance to investigate the influence of intelligent city construction on urban innovation. Based on the data of 238 cities in China from 2006 to 2019, this paper utilizes the staggered difference-in-differences (staggered DID) model and the mediating effect model to examine the impact and mechanisms of smart city construction on urban innovation. We find that China’s smart city pilot policies significantly promote urban innovation. Mechanism analysis shows that this innovation promotion effect acts through improving urban informatization, government financial expenditure on science and technology, and the upgrading of the city’s industrial structure. Further analysis shows that smart city construction has a stronger promoting effect on innovation in cities of a larger scale, that located in the eastern region, and have a lower level of science and education. Overall, our findings provide new insights into urban innovation and objectively assess the impact of smart city construction in China.
Unveiling the Past: Deep-Learning-Based Estimation of Historical Peatland Distribution
Authors: Cha Sungeun , Lee Junghee , Choi Eunho , Lim Joongbin
Published: March 2024

Acknowledging the critical role of accurate peatland distribution estimation, this paper underscores the significance of understanding and mapping these ecosystems for effective environmental management. Highlighting the importance of precision in estimating peatland distribution, the research aims to contribute valuable insights into ecological monitoring and conservation efforts. Prior studies lack robust validation, and while recent advancements propose machine learning for peatland estimation, challenges persist. This paper focuses on the integration of deep learning into peatland detection, underscoring the urgency of safeguarding these global carbon reservoirs. Results from convolutional neural networks (CNNs) reveal a decrease in the classified peatland area from 8226 km2 in 1999 to 5156 km2 in 2019, signifying a 37.32% transition. Shifts in land cover types are evident, with an increase in estate plantation and a decrease in swamp shrub. Human activities, climate, and wildfires significantly influenced these changes over two decades. Fire incidents, totaling 47,860 from 2000 to 2019, demonstrate a substantial peatland loss rate, indicating a correlation between fires and peatland loss. In 2020, wildfire hotspots were predominantly associated with agricultural activities, highlighting subsequent land cover changes post-fire. The CNNs consistently achieve validation accuracy exceeding 93% for the years 1999, 2009, and 2019. Extending beyond academic realms, these discoveries establish the foundation for enhanced land-use planning, intensified conservation initiatives, and effective ecosystem management—a necessity for ensuring sustainable environmental practices in Indonesian peatlands.
Influence of Lemongrass Essential Oil (Cymbopogon flexuosus) Supplementation on Diabetes in Rat Model
Authors: Júnior Ailton S. S. , Aidar Felipe J. , Silva Luiz A. S. , de B. Silva Thais , de Almeida Sara F. M. , Teles Daiane C. S. , de L. Junior Waldecy , Schimieguel Dulce M. , de Souza Daniel A. , Nascimento Ana C. S. , Camargo Enilton A. , dos Santos Jymmys L. , de O. e Silva Ana M. , de S. Nunes Rogéria , Borges Lysandro P. , Lira Ana A. M.
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Species of the genus Cymbopogon and its essential oil are known for their antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the essential oil of Cymbopogon flexuosus (EOCF), and its major component, citral, on glycemic, lipid, antioxidant parameters, and oxidative stress in a type 1 diabetes (DM1) rat model. (2) Methods: Initially, EOCF was analyzed by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the antioxidant activity of EOCF and citral was evaluated. Next, male Wistar rats (3 months old, 200–250 g) induced with DM1 using Streptozotocin (STZ) were divided into four groups: negative control supplemented with an 80% Tween solution, two groups of animals supplemented with EOCF (32 mg/kg and 64 mg/kg) and with citral (32 mg/kg), and treated for 14 days. Measurements of blood glucose levels and body weight were taken; after euthanasia, biochemical markers, including lipid profile, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), were evaluated. (3) Results: The predominant compounds in EOCF were α-citral (53.21%) and neral (19.42%), constituting 72.63% citral. EOCF showed good antioxidant activity, significantly greater than citral. EOCF supplementation demonstrated a mitigating effect on glycemic, lipid, and hepatic abnormalities induced by DM1. (4) Conclusions: EOCF emerges as a promising therapeutic option for the management of DM1.
Study on Grease Lubrication and Electric Erosion Characteristics in AC Electric Fields
Authors: Li Ziying , Guo Feng , Jing Zhaogang , Li Bing , Zhang Li , Wang Xiaobo
Published: March 2024

Protecting motor bearings from electric erosion is crucial as electric vehicles evolve. To better understand how lubrication interacts with electric discharge within motor bearings during varying speeds of vehicle operation, an optical ball-on-disk tribometer was modified to investigate the influence of alternating current (AC) electric fields on film thickness, friction force under various lubrication regions, and discharge characteristics. The study revealed that in AC electric fields, as the lubrication state shifts from mixed lubrication to fluid lubrication region, the electrical characteristic of the lubricating oil film changes from resistive to capacitive, accompanied by an increase in discharge frequency. Under the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) region, an electrical potential difference between the surfaces separated by the lubrication film leads to a reduction in film thickness, which can be attributed to the generation of Joule heating. If the potential difference across the oil film increases to the threshold voltage, destructive discharge occurs with the emission of a significant amount of purple light. Joule heating generated by the AC electric fields also results in a reduction in the friction coefficient under the fluid lubrication region. However, due to the reduction in film thickness, the lubrication state eventually moves to mixed lubrication, leading to a substantial increase in the friction coefficient. In addition, the study also investigated the use of grease with a nanographite conductive additive. It was found that inappropriate additive amounts can lead to discharge phenomena occurring outside the contact region.