bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ovarian response to polyovulatory stimulation in Holstein cows with different polymorphic variants of the DIO1 gene
Authors: Yermilova A. , Smekalova A. , Aleinikova O. , Lebedeva I.
Published: February 2025

The response of the ovaries of cattle to polyovulatory stimulation is characterized by significant variability and may depend to some extent on the animal genotype. In Holstein cows with a weak superovulatory ovarian response, a decreased thyroid activity was detected on the day of insemination and one week after insemination. However, there is no information on the relationship between polymorphism of genes controlling the thyroid system and the ovarian response to polyovulatory stimulation in cattle.

Objective: To analyze the relationship between polymorphic variants of the deiodinase type 1 gene (DIO1) at position 13149 and the ovarian response to polyovulatory stimulation in Holstein cows.

Materials and methods. The experiments involved 37 Holstein cows of the first and second lactation, in which 2 to 9 cycles of polyovulation stimulation were studied. On the first day of insemination, the number of follicles with a diameter greater than 5 mm was recorded in each ovary using an ultrasound scanner. Seven days after insemination, the embryos were washed out and assessed, and the number of corpora lutea in both ovaries was determined. Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism of the DIO1 gene at position 13149 was performed on DNA samples using real-time PCR.

Results. The frequency of occurrence of cows with the GG, CG and CC genotypes was 48,65 %, 43,24 % and 8,11 %, respectively. A tendency towards an increase in the occurrence frequency of individuals with a large number of corpora lutea (> 6,0) on the 7th day after insemination was found in animals with the GG genotype compared to the CG genotype (55,6 % versus 25,0 %, p<0,1). At the same time, among cows homozygous for the G allele, individuals with a higher number of degenerated embryos (> 1.0) per 1 washout were more common (33,3 % versus 0 % in cows with the CG genotype, p<0.05). Concurrently, the occurrence frequency of cows with a large number of high-quality morulae and blastocysts washed out during one session (> 4,0) was slightly higher in the group with the GG genotype than with the CG genotype (33,3 % versus 12,5 %).

Conclusions. The data obtained suggest that the response of the ovaries of Holstein cows to polyovulatory stimulation may partially depend on the polymorphism of the DIO1 gene at position 13149. Furthermore, they indicate that the effect of polymorphic gene variants on fertility traits in cattle should be considered in combination with the breed of animals.
(Re)membering the Ecology of the Self
Authors: Neal-Stanley Amber
Published: February 2025

"I spent five years in elementary and middle school classrooms as a teacher of reading, language arts, and social studies. Because my school was located in a refugee resettlement area, I taught and engaged with students from across the globe – from Tanzania, Iran, and Mexico, among many other places. In this space, my students also served as my teacher, instructing me in the ways of their worlds..."
Black Forest: A Model of “Post” Pandemic Praxis
Authors: Bartholomew Joshua S.
Published: February 2025

"By combining nature and Black cultural raw materials, Black Forest presents the most relevant response to the growing need for social interventions that address environmental disparities in the United States. As a young boy from Trinidad and Tobago in New England, my parents taught my family to love trees and nature..."
Innovative Gastrointestinal Drug Delivery Systems: Nanoparticles, Hydrogels, and Microgrippers
Authors: Chen Haiming , Islam Waliul , El Halabi Jessica , Li Ling , Selaru Florin M.
Published: February 2025

Over the past decade, new technologies have emerged to increase intrinsic potency, enhance bioavailability, and improve targeted delivery of drugs. Most pharmaceutical formulations require multiple dosing due to their fast release and short elimination kinetics, increasing the risk of adverse events and patient non-compliance. Due to these limitations, enormous efforts have focused on developing drug delivery systems (DDSs) for sustained release and targeted delivery. Sustained release strategies began with pioneering research using silicone rubber embedding for small molecules and non-inflammatory polymer encapsulation for proteins or DNA. Subsequently, numerous DDSs have been developed as controlled-release formulations to deliver systemic or local therapeutics, such as small molecules, biologics, or live cells. In this review, we discuss the latest developments of DDSs, specifically nanoparticles, hydrogels, and microgrippers for the delivery of systemic or localized drugs to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We examine innovative DDS design and delivery strategies tailored to the GI tract’s unique characteristics, such as its extensive length and anatomical complexity, varying pH levels and enzymatic activity across different sections, and intrinsic peristalsis. We particularly emphasize those designed for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with in vivo preclinical studies.
METTL3/YTDHF1 Stabilizes MTCH2 mRNA to Regulate Ferroptosis in Glioma Cells
Authors: Liu Hongjun , Tan Shasha , Zhao Zhenyu , Tang Xiaoping , Li Zhou , Qi Jian
Published: February 2025

Background: Gliomas are aggressive brain tumors known for their poor prognosis and resistance to standard treatment options. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death that has emerged as a promising target for cancer treatment. This study examined how the methyltransferase-like 3/YTH domain family protein 1 (METTL3/YTHDF1) axis influences ferroptosis and glioma progression by stabilizing mitochondrial carrier homolog 2 (MTCH2) messenger RNA (mRNA). Methods: MTCH2 expression in glioma tissues and cell lines was evaluated through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blot analyses. To assess the effects of MTCH2 knockdown and overexpression on glioma cell functions, we performed a series of functional assays, including cell viability, colony formation, and measurements of lipid reactive oxygen species (lipid ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Additionally, we conducted RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA stability assays to explore the underlying mechanisms governing the interaction between METTL3, YTHDF1, and the stability of MTCH2 mRNA. Results: MTCH2 was significantly upregulated in glioma tissues and cell lines. Silencing of MTCH2 resulted in decreased glioma cell proliferation and induced ferroptosis, as evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation and ROS accumulation. Conversely, overexpression of MTCH2 enhanced glioma cell survival and reduced ferroptosis. METTL3-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification enhanced MTCH2 mRNA stability by enabling YTHDF1 to bind and protect the modified mRNA from degradation. Conclusion: The METTL3/YTHDF1/MTCH2 axis plays a critical role in glioma progression by inhibiting ferroptosis and promoting tumor cell survival. Targeting this pathway may provide a new and effective treatment strategy for glioma patients.
Targeting the AURKB-MAD2L2 Axis Disrupts the DNA Damage Response and Glycolysis to Inhibit Colorectal Cancer Progression
Authors: Li Shengjie , Ye Jiayou , Yang Kaifeng , Xu Chengfan , Qin Zhixiang , Xue Yiyang , Yu Lanjian , Zhou Tianyu , Yin Ziming , Sun Bin , Xu Jun
Published: February 2025

Background: Dysregulated metabolic pathways, including glycolysis and a compromised DNA damage response (DDR), are linked to the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The mitotic arrest deficient-like 2 (MAD2L2) and aurora kinase B (AURKB) genes play roles in cell cycle regulation and the DDR, making them potential targets for CRC therapy. Methods: Differential expression analysis was performed using The Cancer Genome Atlas-Colon Adenocarcinoma (TCGA-COAD) and GSE47074 datasets. A predictive model was established, and gene expression levels were further analyzed. The Gene Expression Profiling Interaction Analysis database and co-immunoprecipitation experiments assessed the correlation between AURKB and MAD2L2. Knockdown experiments in CRC cell lines further investigated the role of AURKB, followed by analyses of cell behavior, oxidative stress, glycolysis, DDR, and interaction with MAD2L2. Results: The risk model identified six prognostic genes (BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B (BUB1B), AURKB, aurora kinase A (AURKA), exonuclease 1 (EXO1), topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A), cyclin A2 (CCNA2)) associated with CRC, which were significantly expressed in tumor samples from the TCGA-COAD and GSE47074 datasets. In vitro assays confirmed that AURKB knockdown inhibited CRC cell behavior, induced G1 cell cycle arrest, and increased oxidative stress and apoptosis. AURKB knockdown also impaired glycolysis, reducing lactate production, glucose uptake, and ATP levels. Overexpression of MAD2L2 partially reversed these effects, restored glycolytic activity, and mitigated the cell cycle arrest and DDR caused by AURKB knockdown. Conclusion: AURKB regulates CRC progression by modulating glycolysis and DDR pathways. Targeting the AURKB-MAD2L2 axis offers a promising therapeutic strategy for disrupting fundamental metabolic and DNA repair mechanisms in CRC.
Proteomic Screening of Early Reperfusion in Acute Ischemic Heart and Insights into Mitochondrial-Associated Cell Damage: Role of RIP3
Authors: Marciníková Andrea , Horváth Csaba , Jarabicová Izabela , Majerová Petra , Olešová Dominika , Suleiman M. Saadeh , Adameová Adriana
Published: February 2025

Background: Regulated forms of necrosis-like cell death (e.g., necroptosis) have been shown to contribute to cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, pro-inflammatory necroptosis is unlikely to be involved during early reperfusion and little is known about the associated molecular changes. Thus, this study aimed to provide an in-depth protein screening with a particular focus on pro-pyroptotic and mitochondrial damage-related pathways. Methods: Langendorff-perfused rat hearts were subjected to 30-minute global ischemia followed by 10-minute reperfusion. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and immunoblotting techniques were used to study the complex cardiac proteome. In addition, calcium-induced mitochondrial swelling and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were examined to assess mitochondrial stress and necrosis phenotype, respectively. Results: Approximately 160 proteins linked to cell death signaling, cellular metabolism, and post-translational modifications were significantly differentially expressed in I/R hearts compared to controls. Conventional proteins of pyroptosis, either of canonical or non-canonical signaling, were not affected during the short reperfusion. Notably, this type of I/R was associated with increased expression of p25 cleaved form of poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase 1 (PARP1 p25) and mature apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), alongside nitrosative stress and mitochondrial swelling. Conversely, a receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) inhibitor (GSK′872, 250 nM) reversed mitochondrial swelling and plasma membrane rupture and mitigated the increase in the expression of PARP1 p25 and AIF. Conclusions: This study shows for the first time that necrosis-like injury during early I/R of the isolated heart is associated with mitochondrial events, rather than pro-inflammatory pyroptotic cell death. Furthermore, the inhibition of RIP3 mitigates this injury independent of targeting pro-inflammatory signaling.
HSPB1 Orchestrates the Inflammation-Associated Transcriptome Profile of Atherosclerosis in HUVECs
Authors: Zhao Gang , Zhao Li , Miao Yulin , Yang Lei , Huang Lizhen , Hu Zhipeng
Published: February 2025

Background: Atherosclerosis (AS), with a profound inflammatory response, is the basis of cardiovascular diseases. Previous reports showed that heat shock protein family B member 1 (HSPB1) has a protective effect against AS, but the specific mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we aim to explore the functions and downstream targets of HSPB1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Methods: Expression of the HSPB1 gene was knocked down in HUVECs. Cellular phenotype was then assessed and transcriptome data (RNA-seq) was analyzed to identify the potential targets regulated by HSPB1. Moreover, RNA-seq data for human fibroatheroma (GSE104140) from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database was re-analyzed to verify the targets of HSPB1 in AS. Results: Silencing of HSPB1 significantly reduced apoptosis (p < 0.0001) and increased the proliferation (p < 0.05) of HUVECs. The 608 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified after HSPB1 knockdown, including 423 upregulated genes. DEGs, including CXCL1, CXCL8, CXCL2, TRIB3, GAS5, SELE, and TNIP1, were enriched in inflammatory and immune response pathways. HSPB1 was also shown to affect alternative splicing patterns of hundreds of genes, especially those enriched in apoptotic processes, including ACIN1, IFI27, PAK4, UBE2D3, and FIS1. An overlapping gene set was found between the HSPB1-regulated and AS-induced transcriptome. This included 171 DEGs and 250 alternatively spliced genes that were also enriched in inflammatory/immune response- and apoptosis-associated pathways, respectively. Conclusion: In summary, HSPB1 knockdown modulates the proliferation and apoptosis of HUVECs by regulating RNA levels and alternative splicing patterns. HSPB1 plays an important role in AS pathogenesis by modulating the inflammatory and immune response. This study provides novel insights for the investigation of future AS therapeutic strategies.
Application of Diffusional Kurtosis Imaging on Normal-Appearing White Matter in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Guo Yue-lin , Chen Si-lan , Rao Hai-bing , Kong Ling-mei , Li Wei-jia , Liu Qi-ze , Liu Feng-yu , Wang Yu , Zheng Wen-bin
Published: February 2025

Background: This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic potential of diffusional kurtosis imaging (DKI) parameters in detecting pathological alterations in the normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) associated with cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). Methods: A total of 56 patients diagnosed with CSVD were enrolled, all exhibiting confirmed lacunar infarction in the corticospinal tract (CST) as verified by conventional magnetic resonance imaging. A control group of 24 healthy individuals who exhibited no discernible abnormalities on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans was also included. The following DKI parameters were recorded, including mean kurtosis (MK), axial kurtosis (Ka), and radial kurtosis (Kr). Regions of interest were placed at representative levels of the CST on the affected side, encompassing the pons, anterior part of the posterior limb of the internal capsule (PLIC), corona radiata, and subcortex. Results: Variations in MK, Ka, and Kr values in the pons, anterior part of the PLIC, corona radiata, and subcortex of the control group were observed. Notably, the MK and Kr values of the normal-appearing pons in CSVD patients were significantly elevated compared with the control group. The MK, Ka value of the normal-appearing anterior part of the PLIC was significantly higher in the CSVD group than in the control group. The Kr value of the normal-appearing corona radiata exhibited a significant elevation in CSVD patients compared with the control group. Lastly, patients with CSVD displayed lower Ka values and higher Kr values in the normal-appearing subcortex compared with the control group. Conclusions: DKI is an effective tool for assessing NAWM in patients with CSVD. These findings potentially offer novel insights into the prognosis of CSVD and serve as a foundational platform for future DKI studies on NAWM in other diffuse brain lesions.
Frequencies of Circulating Immune Cells in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: Correlation with MDS-UPDRS Scores
Authors: Goldeck David , Oettinger Lilly , Fülöp Tamas , Schulte Claudia , Hamprecht Klaus , Berg Daniela , Maetzler Walter , Pawelec Graham
Published: February 2025

Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is associated with dysregulated/chronic inflammation. The immune system has multiple roles including beneficial effects such as clearing alpha synuclein aggregates. However, peripheral immune cells entering the brain may also contribute to inflammation and neurodegeneration. To identify which cells might have a negative impact and could be potential therapeutic targets, we compared immune signatures of patients and healthy controls. Methods: Multicolor flow cytometry was used to determine the frequencies of major immune cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of PD patients and controls. Because of the major impact of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection on the distribution of immune cell subsets, particularly cluster of differentiation (CD)8+ T-cells, all participants were tested for CMV seropositivity. Results: Although the cohort of 35 PD patients exhibited the well-established T-cell differentiation signature driven by CMV infection, there were no differences in the frequencies of differentiated or pro-inflammatory T-cells, B-cells or natural killer cells (NK-cells) attributable to the disease. However, percentages of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) were higher in PD patients than controls. Moreover, percentages of CD14+CD16+ (intermediate) monocytes expressing the C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5) correlated with disease severity assessed by the Movement Disorder Society’s revised version of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) score and disease duration. Conclusions: A comprehensive evaluation of the major subsets of circulating immune cells in PD patients revealed differences in myeloid cells between PD and healthy controls and some correlation of monocyte abundance with disease severity.
The Impact of Prostate-Specific Antigen and Gleason Scores on Cardiovascular Death in Prostate Cancer Patients after Radiotherapy or Chemotherapy: A Population-Based Study
Authors: He Huijuan , Guo Liyu , Wang Peipei , Yang Yuting , Lu Zhenxing , Peng Xiaoping , Guan Tianwang
Published: February 2025

Background: Tumor characteristics are associated with the risk of cardiovascular death (CVD) in cancer patients. However, the influence of tumor characteristics on CVD risk among prostate cancer (PC) patients who have received radiotherapy (RT) or chemotherapy (CT) is often overlooked. This study explored the association between PC tumor characteristics and CVD risk in PC patients who had received RT or CT. Methods: Fine-gray competitive risk analysis was employed to identify CVD risk factors. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to adjust for confounding factors. The predicted prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and Gleason score values were visualized using a nomogram, which was subsequently validated through calibration curves and concordance indexes (C-indexes). Results: A total of 120,908 patients were enrolled in the study, with a mean follow-up time of 80 months. PSA values between 10 and 20 ng/mL (adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20–1.36, p < 0.001) and >20 ng/mL (adjusted HR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.21–1.35, p < 0.001), and a Gleason score >7 (adjusted HR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.07–1.41, p = 0.004) were identified as risk factors of CVD for PC patients after RT or CT. The C-index of the training cohort was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.66–0.67), and the C-index of the validation cohort was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.65–0.68). Consistency was observed between the actual observations and the nomogram. Risk stratification was also significant (p < 0.001). Conclusions: PSA values ≥10 ng/mL and Gleason scores >7 may be associated with an increased risk of CVD in PC patients after RT or CT. These patients may require more long-term follow-up and monitoring of CVD risk.
Effects of Inclisiran, Alirocumab, Evolocumab, and Evinacumab on Lipids: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Lin , Li Bin , Chen Wei , Li Wei , Yang Huayun , Pan Diguang
Published: February 2025

Background: Direct comparisons between the drugs are limited, and the dosing remains debatable. Therefore, the study aims to indirectly compare the efficacy and safety of inclisiran, alirocumab, evolocumab, and evinacumab in lipid-lowering through a network meta-analysis. Methods: Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were utilized to retrieve randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The search was conducted up to July 1, 2023. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was employed to appraise the quality of included studies. R software was used to conduct the Bayesian network meta-analysis. Results: Twenty-one RCTs with 10,835 patients were included. The network meta-analysis indicated that Evolocumab [mean difference (MD) = –60, 95% credibility interval (CrI) (–72, –49)] was the most effective (87%) in reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), followed by alirocumab (71.4%) and inclisiran (47.2%), with placebo being the least effective (0.01%). In increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), evolocumab [MD = 6.5, 95% CrI (3.2, 10)] ranked first (81.8%), followed by alirocumab (68.2%), with placebo again at the bottom (0.03%). In lowering total cholesterol, evolocumab [MD = –36, 95% CrI (–54, –19)] performed the best (86%), followed by alirocumab (64%), and placebo remained the least effective (0.04%). Regarding adverse events (AEs), evinacumab [odds ratio (OR) = 2, 95% CrI (1.17, 3.44)] ranked the highest (98.9%), followed by inclisiran (59.6%) and evolocumab (15.2%). Conclusions: Evolocumab appears to be the most effective in increasing HDL-C and reducing LDL-C and total cholesterol. Evinacumab shows the best safety profile with the lowest incidence of AEs. The PROSPERO registration: CRD42024570445, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=570445.
The Influence of the Presence of the Ramus Intermedius on Atherosclerosis Plaque Deposition in the Left Bifurcation Region in Low-Risk Individuals
Authors: Rosani Nurul Sazmi , Zamin Rasheeda Mohd , Aman Raja Rizal Azman Raja , Zuhdi Ahmad Syadi Mahmood , Danaee Mahmoud , Zulkafli Intan Suhana
Published: February 2025

Background: Additional bifurcations at the left main coronary artery (LMCA) could modify the geometry of the left coronary system, disturbing haemodynamic flow patterns and potentially altering endothelial shear stress (ESS). A low ESS has been implicated in atherogenesis. The emergence of the ramus intermedius (RI) from the LMCA creates additional branching, but the specific role of the RI in plaque deposition at the left coronary system remains unclear. This study sought to elucidate the potential effects of the RI on plaque formation at the LMCA and its bifurcation. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional single-centre study was conducted using data from 139 female patients who were identified to have low risk of cardiovascular disease. These patients underwent cardiac computed tomography angiography between January 2017 and December 2018. Contrasted multiplanar coronary images taken during the best diastolic phase were analysed for the presence (experimental group) or absence (control group) of the RI. Measurements of plaques were done at the LMCA and at a 10 mm distance from the ostia of daughter arteries. Plaque data at the left bifurcation region were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and binary logistic regression tests. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Amongst these low-risk patients, 33.8% (n = 47) had an RI. In the presence of RI, there was an eight-fold increased risk of plaque deposition at the LMCA (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 8.5) and a three-fold increased risk of plaque deposition at the proximal left anterior descending (pLAD), especially on its lateral wall (aOR = 3.5). However, the RI did not influence plaque deposition at the distance of 10 mm from the ostium of the proximal left circumflex artery. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the RI increases the risk for atherosclerosis plaque deposition by three to eight-fold at the pLAD artery and the LMCA.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for Cardiotoxicity Caused by Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Jialian , Li Yanwei , Tao Li , Zhang Chuan , Zuo Zhong
Published: February 2025

Background: The complex process of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and the uncertainty of each parameter in the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiotoxicity limit its promotion in the cardiac evaluation of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Cochrane databases for relevant articles published up until September 28, 2024. Results: After screening, 8 articles were included in this study. The analysis revealed that following ICI treatment, the left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) increased significantly [weighted mean difference (WMD) 2.33; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26, 3.41; p < 0.01], while the global radial strain (GRS) decreased [WMD –4.73; 95% CI –6.74, –2.71; p < 0.01]. Additionally, T1 and T2 values increased [standardized mean difference (SMD) 1.14; 95% CI 0.59, 1.68; p < 0.01] and [SMD 1.11; 95% CI 0.64, 1.58; p < 0.01], respectively. An elevated T2 was associated with a higher occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), with a hazard ratio of 1.36 (95% CI 1.12, 1.64). Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that T1, T2, and GLS increase, while GRS decreases following ICI administration. By consolidating these critical metrics, we propose a streamlined, abbreviated (non-contrast) CMR protocol that can be completed within 15 minutes, thereby facilitating the integration of CMR in cardio-oncology. The PROSPERO registration: CRD42023437238, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437238.
Which Parameter Related to Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol is Superior for Predicting the Recurrence of Myocardial Infarction in Young Patients with Previous Coronary Heart Disease? A Real-World Study
Authors: Xu Feng , Xing Hao-Ran , Yang Hong-Xia , Wang Jin-Wen , Song Xian-Tao , Zuo Hui-Juan
Published: February 2025

Background: Lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a well-established strategy for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD). However, the effectiveness of specific LDL-C parameters in predicting myocardial infarction (MI) recurrence in real-world settings remains inadequately explored. This study aims to examine the relationship between MI recurrence and various LDL-C parameters in young CHD patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study involved 1013 patients aged 18–44 at the time of initial CHD diagnosis, collected from the cardiology department clinics at Beijing Anzhen Hospital between October 2022 and October 2023. LDL-C levels were assessed at the time of CHD diagnosis and at the final follow-up. The primary outcome was MI events, analyzed using survival analysis and logistic regression models to determine associations with LDL-C parameters. Results: The study included 1013 patients (mean age: 38.5 ± 3.9 years; 94.7% men), with a median follow-up time of 1.7 years. Initially, 13.6% had LDL-C levels <1.8 mmol/L, which increased to 37.8% by the study’s end. During follow-up, 96 patients (9.5%) experienced MI. While LDL-C <1.8 mmol/L at baseline showed a slightly lower cumulative incidence of MI than LDL-C ≥1.8 mmol/L, the difference was not statistically significant (log-rank p = 0.335). Reductions in LDL-C levels of ≥50% and the patterns of change did not correlate with decreased MI risk. However, LDL-C <1.4 mmol/L at the final measurement was associated with a reduced MI risk (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.33–0.98) compared with LDL-C ≥2.6 mmol/L. Conclusions: This study suggests that the most important parameter related to LDL-C for predicting the recurrence of MI in young patients with a history of CHD is the ideal target LDL-C level. Lowering LDL-C to <1.4 mmol/L could potentially reduce MI risk, regardless of baseline LDL-C levels.
Application of Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with New-Onset ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Chen Min , Sun Cuiling , Yang Li , Zhang Ting , Zhang Jing , Chen Chunli
Published: February 2025

Background: This study aimed to develop and validate a predictive model for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with new-onset ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) using four machine learning (ML) algorithms. Methods: Data from 250 new-onset STEMI patients were retrospectively collected. Feature selection was performed using the Boruta algorithm. Four ML algorithms—K-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), Complement Naive Bayes (CNB), and logistic regression—were applied to predict MACE risk. Model performance was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) analysis was used to rank feature importance, and a nomogram was constructed for risk visualization. Results: Logistic regression showed the best performance (AUC = 0.814 in training, 0.776 in validation) compared to KNN, SVM, and CNB. SHAP analysis identified seven key predictors, including Killip classification, Gensini score, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), heart rate (HR), creatinine (CR), glutamine transferase (GLT), and platelet count (PCT). The nomogram provided accurate risk predictions with strong agreement between predicted and observed outcomes. Conclusions: The logistic regression model effectively predicts MACE risk after PCI in STEMI patients. The nomogram serves as a practical tool for clinicians, supporting personalized risk assessment and improving clinical decision-making.
Predictive Value of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Parameters in Patients under Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with High Pulse Pressure
Authors: Ren Qiang , Mu Xingbo , Li Yushan , Zhang Jian , Liang Yanchun , Zhang Quanyu , Han Yaling
Published: February 2025

Background: The correlation between cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters and the prognosis of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with high pulse pressure (PP) is unclear. The purpose of present study is to investigate the correlation of CPET parameters in patients under PCI with high PP and assess their reference value for prognosis. Methods: Individuals aged 18 years and older who were diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD) and underwent PCI along with CPET from November 1, 2015 to September 30, 2021 were enrolled. The patients were categorized into two groups based on PP: high PP group (PP of males ≥50 mmHg; PP of females ≥60 mmHg) and normal PP group (PP of males <50 mmHg; PP of females <60 mmHg). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The optimal predictors of MACE were identified through Cox regression analysis. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was measured to evaluate the discriminatory ability in patients with high PP. Results: A total of 2785 patients were included in present study, with a median follow-up period of 1215 (687–1586) days. Through multifactorial analysis, it was determined that peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2, hazard ratio (HR): 0.94, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.88 to 1.00, p = 0.038) and ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide (VE/VCO2, HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.15, p = 0.007) are important predictive factors in the parameters of CPET. The ROC based on diabetes mellitus (DM), smoking, peak VO2, and VE/VCO2 could effectively evaluate the prognosis of patients [1-year AUC: 0.636 (0.515~0.758), 3-year AUC: 0.675 (0.599~0.752), 5-year AUC: 0.718 (0.607~0.830)]. Conclusions: The prognosis of CAD patients with high PP was worse compared to the patients with normal PP. The peak VO2 and VE/VCO2 were predictors of MACE in CAD patients with high PP.
Cardiovascular Outcome of the SGLT2 Inhibitor in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hu Siqi , Tang Ting , Yu Qingwen , Tong Xuhan , You Yao , Zhang Shenghui , Chen Chen , Tang Jiake , Wang Chunyi , Wang Hu , Fu Xinyan , Chen Juan , Zhang Xingwei , Wang Mingwei , Liu Ling
Published: February 2025

Background: Unexpected cardiovascular events are likely to occur within a short period following an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2-I) is a recently recommended drug for the treatment of AMI. However, its role in the risk of the outcomes following an AMI, including all-cause death and heart failure readmission, remains controversial. Therefore, in this study, we explored the effect of SGLT2-Is on cardiovascular outcomes after an AMI. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched without language restrictions to retrieve case-control studies published before April 2024. Citations were independently screened by two authors, and the studies meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were retained. Data on author names, year of publication, location of the study group, gender and age of participants, outcome assessment, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and the follow-up period were extracted. Results: Eight studies were eligible for inclusion, and these studies showed that the use of SGLT2-Is after an AMI was significantly associated with a lower risk of hospitalization for heart failure (OR: 0.66, 95% CI 0.57–0.76, p < 0.01) and a lower incidence of major cardiovascular adverse events (OR: 0.79, 95% CI 0.70–0.89, p < 0.01), but was unrelated to a lower incidence of all-cause mortality (OR: 0.84, 95% CI 0.69–1.02, p = 0.07). Conclusions: Compared with placebo, SGLT2-I therapy following an AMI can reduce the risk of heart failure hospitalization and the incidence of major cardiovascular adverse events, but has no effect on all-cause mortality. The PROSPERO registration: CRD42024542335, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024542335.
Construction and Verification of a Frailty Risk Prediction Model for Elderly Patients with Coronary Heart Disease Based on a Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Cao Jiao-yu , Zhang Li-xiang , Zhou Xiao-juan
Published: February 2025

Background: This study aimed to develop a machine learning-based predictive model for assessing frailty risk among elderly patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: From November 2020 to May 2023, a cohort of 1170 elderly patients diagnosed with CHD were enrolled from the Department of Cardiology of a tier-3 hospital in Anhui Province, China. Participants were randomly divided into a development group and a validation group, each containing 585 patients in a 1:1 ratio. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was employed in the development group to identify key variables influencing frailty among patients with CHD. These variables informed the creation of a machine learning prediction model, with the most accurate model selected. Predictive accuracy was subsequently evaluated in the validation group through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: LASSO regression identified the activities of daily living (ADL) score, hemoglobin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), depression, cardiac function classification, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, solitary living, and age as significant predictors of frailty among elderly patients with CHD in the development group. These variables were incorporated into a logistic regression model and four machine learning models: extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), random forest (RF), light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), and adaptive boosting (AdaBoost). AdaBoost demonstrated the highest accuracy in the development group, achieving an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.803 in the validation group, indicating strong predictive capability. Conclusions: By leveraging key frailty determinants in elderly patients with CHD, the AdaBoost machine learning model developed in this study has shown robust predictive performance through validated indicators and offers a reliable tool for assessing frailty risk in this patient population.
Incorporating Circulating Plasma Interleukin-10 Enhanced Risk Predictability of Mortality in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Surgery
Authors: Diao Yi-fei , Chen Zhi-bin , Gu Jia-xi , Xu Xin-yang , Lin Wen-feng , Yuan Chun-ze , Xiong Jia-qi , Li Ming-hui , Ni Bu-qing , Zhao Sheng , Shao Yong-feng , Zhang Ying-yuan , Liu Hong
Published: February 2025

Background: Acute type A aortic dissection (TAAD) is a life-threatening cardiovascular emergency with a high mortality rate. The peri-operative factors influencing in-hospital mortality among surgically treated TAAD patients remain unclear. This study aimed to identify key peri-operative risk factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Methods: Peri-operative laboratory data, surgical strategies, and TAAD-related risk factors, associated with mortality, were collected. Machine learning techniques were applied to evaluate the impact of various parameters on in-hospital mortality. Based on the findings, a nomogram model was developed and validated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis, calibration plots, and internal validation methods. Results: A total of 199 patients with TAAD were included in the study cohort, which was divided into derivation and validation cohorts. Using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression method, 66 features were narrowed down to six key predictors. These included age, lymphocyte count, use of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, duration of mechanical ventilation, and postoperative interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels, all of which were identified as significant risk factors for in-hospital mortality following TAAD surgery. Conclusions: We developed and validated a predictive model, presented as a nomogram, to estimate in-hospital survival in patients with TAAD. Post-operative IL-10 was identified as an independent prognostic factor for patients with TAAD. The combination of IL-10 with five additional indicators significantly improved the predictive accuracy, demonstrating superiority over the use of any single variable alone. Clinical Trial Registration: This study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04711889). https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04711889.
Uric Acid to Albumin Ratio: A Predictive Marker for Acute Kidney Injury in Isolated Tricuspid Valve Surgery
Authors: Liao Yaoji , Li Liuyuan , Li Jie , Zhao Feifei , Zhang Chongjian
Published: February 2025

Background: The plasma uric acid/albumin ratio (UAR) has emerged as a novel inflammatory biomarker for predicting the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) following percutaneous coronary intervention. However, the potential of the UAR to serve as a predictive marker for AKI in patients undergoing isolated tricuspid valve (TV) surgery remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the association between the UAR and AKI and to assess whether the UAR can predict AKI in these patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent isolated TV surgery between January 2018 and June 2019. The patients were divided into three groups based on the tertiles of the UAR. We utilized multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline analysis to examine the association between the UAR and AKI. Additionally, we used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to assess the predictive accuracy of the UAR for AKI. Results: A total of 224 patients were enrolled in this study, of whom 41 developed AKI. The incidence of AKI across the three UAR tertiles was 3.8%, 22.2%, and 29.7%, with a significant difference between the group (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, UAR ≥8.5 was associated with a 7-fold increased risk of AKI (odds ratio (OR): 7.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.61–37.14), while a UAR ≥10.8 was a linked to a 9-fold increased risk (OR: 9.34, 95% CI: 1.96–44.60). The restricted cubic spline model showed a linear association between the UAR and AKI development. The area under the curve (AUC) value for the UAR was 0.713 (95% CI: 0.633–0.793; p < 0.001) with a cutoff value of 8.89. Conclusions: An increased UAR was significantly associated with a higher risk of AKI in patients undergoing isolated TV surgery; however, while the UAR could serve as a marker to predict AKI, it was not superior to uric acid alone.
Questions and Certainty in Diagnosis and Management of Acute Type B Aortic Dissection
Authors: Lovato Luigi , Cocozza Maria Adriana , Onori Alessandro , Fattori Rossella
Published: February 2025

Type B aortic dissection (TBAD) is a severe cardiovascular condition that requires timely diagnosis and intervention to prevent life-threatening complications. The aim of this review was to focus on the most crucial and controversial aspects of contemporary TBAD management. It is recognized that in the acute phase, computed tomography angiography (CTA) plays an essential role in evaluating the extent of the dissection and monitoring disease progression. CTA has significantly improved the management of TBAD by providing detailed assessments of aortic anatomy and dynamic flow changes, positioning it as the cornerstone imaging modality for identifying acute high-risk patients who may require early intervention. Recently, new advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) technology have the potential to provide further information beyond imaging alone. However, such sophisticated techniques should be reserved for stable patients after the acute phase. After decades of medical therapy and high risk surgery, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery for complicated TBAD, offering lower perioperative morbidity and mortality. Nevertheless, its use in uncomplicated TBAD remains a topic of ongoing debate. While recent studies suggest that preemptive TEVAR combined with optimal medical therapy may reduce late adverse events and improve long-term outcomes, these findings remain controversial. This review critically analyzes the current literature on both diagnosis and TEVAR treatment, evaluating these controversies in the context of clinical practice.
НАВЧАННЯ ФІЗИКИ ЧЕРЕЗ ПРАКТИКУ: STEM-ІНТЕГРАЦІЯ НА ПРИКЛАДІ ПРОЄКТУВАННЯ СИСТЕМ ДЛЯ ВИРОЩУВАННЯ РОСЛИН
Authors: Гольський Віталій , Столярчук Ігор , Лешко Роман , Даньків Олеся , Паньків Людмила , Угрин Юрій , Британ Віктор , Кузик Олег
Published: February 2025

У статті розглядається інтеграція STEM-освіти в освітній процес фізики через реалізацію практичних проєктів, таких як проєктування систем для вирощування рослин. Автори акцентують увагу на тому, що традиційні методи викладання фізики часто обмежуються теоретичним підходом, який не сприяє розвитку практичних навичок і міждисциплінарного мислення. Відсутність зв’язку між теорією та реальним життям знижує інтерес учнів до фізики, що обмежує їхню здатність адаптуватися до викликів сучасного світу. У цьому контексті впровадження STEM-підходу допомагає поєднати фізику з іншими науками, такими як біологія, хімія та інженерія, і забезпечує практичне застосування фізичних знань. На прикладі проєкту створення боксу для розсади демонструється, як вивчення фізичних явищ (теплових, світлових, газових, механічних) сприяє розумінню учнями основних фізичних законів і формуванню навичок аналізу, моделювання та конструювання. Учні основної школи зосереджуються на базових поняттях і простих експериментах, тоді як у старшій школі акцент робиться на складніших аспектах, таких як хвильова природа світла, теплообмін, електрика та програмування. Використання цифрових технологій, зокрема датчиків і мікроконтролерів, дозволяє учням збирати, аналізувати та систематизувати дані. Проєктне навчання стимулює розвиток критичного мислення, творчості, командної роботи та екологічної грамотності. Завдяки інтеграції STEM-методів учні здобувають навички, необхідні для розв'язання глобальних проблем, таких як енергоефективність і сталий розвиток. Автори підкреслюють, що такі проєкти дозволяють гармонійно поєднувати теоретичні знання з практичними завданнями, мотивуючи учнів до навчання та готуючи їх до інноваційної діяльності. Стаття є важливим внеском у розвиток STEM-освіти, демонструючи її потенціал для модернізації освітнього процесу з фізики та формування ключових компетенцій учнів.
МЕТОДИЧНІ ОСНОВИ РОЗВИТКУ ВИТРИВАЛОСТІ ТА ЇЇ ВПЛИВ НА ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНІ МОЖЛИВОСТІ БІГУНІВ НА СЕРЕДНІ ДИСТАНЦІЇ
Authors: Скачедуб Наталія , Лазоренко Сергій , Сергієнко Володимир
Published: February 2025

Легка атлетика – найстарший вид спорту на нашій планеті. Біг – вид рухової активності, який зародився в надрах людської цивілізації тисячі років тому та допоміг зберегти біологічну ідентифікацію виду вищих приматів Homo sapiens. На думку відомих філософів, таких як Йохан Гейзинга, Йоган-Кристоф-Фрідріх фон Шиллер, Жана Бодріяра, Валерій Косяк біг був ключовим фактором трансформації Homo sapiens до статусу Homo sроrticus. Тому сучасні спортивні науковці досліджують проблематичні питання діалектики легкої атлетики у тісній інтеграції з еволюцією сучасної людини. Найбільшого піднесення у добу античності легка атлетика набула у системі змагальної практики древніх греків, яка носила назву агоністика. Усі найвідоміші змагання тієї пори – Олімпійські, Істмійські, Піфійські та Немейські агони розпочиналися протистояннями майстрів бігу. Біг входив і до програми мультиспортивний випробовувань таких як пентатлон. Грекині, правда окремо від чоловіків, теж змагалися у майстерності бігу на іграх присвячених богиням Гері, Деметрі та Афіні. Сучасна історія олімпійської легкої атлетики розпочинається від моменту відродження інтернаціонального проєкту 1896 року. Результати виступів легкоатлетів на міжнародних спортивних аренах сьогодення демонструють досить прогресивні тенденції, що указує на оптимальну організацію навчально-тренувального вишколу спортсменів, який включає в себе багатофакторність елементів вишколу. Саме останній аспект, покликана забезпечити спортивна наука, яка досить скрупульозно і раціонально повинна формувати рекомендації для тренерів у легкій атлетиці черз високу конкуренцію у цьому виді спорту.
Тому у даній науковій публікації, авторський колектив презентує інформацію перевірки ефективності моделі тренувальної системи щодо розвитку витривалості та її впливу на функціональні можливості легкоатлетів-бігунів на, які спеціалізуються у бігові на середні дистанції, розробленої на основі аналізу науково-методичної літератури. Для вирішення прогностичних завдань автори використали адекватні методи дослідження та довели перспективність власних наукових поглядів.