bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Liposomes – metabolically active drug transport systems: visualization and pharmacokinetic. Part 2 (review)
Authors: Pozharitskaya O. N. , Kozur Yu. M. , Osochuk S. S. , Flisyuk E. V. , Smekhova I. E. , Malkov S. D. , Zarifi K. O. , Titovich I. A. , Krasova E. K. , Shikov A. N. 
Published: November 2024

Introduction. In the second part of the review we discussed aspects of visualization, pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of liposomes.Text. Many different methodsh as been proposed for the visualization of liposoms morphology and quality such as light microscopy, ESEM, TEM, AFM, etc. Each method have own advantages and limitations which are discussed in the article: In general, the selection of method depends on the specific morphological characteristics and level of details. It is important to understand the specificity of the liposomes and the visualization method for correct preparation of samples. Adequately performed pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies can also be used as a tool for liposome visualization. The nature of active pharmaceutical ingredients, dose, lipid components, size of liposomes, charge, coating of liposomes with excipients and route of administration significantly affects the pharmacokinetics of liposomal forms. Additionally, the interaction of liposomal forms with the immune system, reticuloendothelial system and blood components play an important role in their absorption, distribution and elimination.Conclusion. The better understanding of the absorption, biodistribution, metabolism and clearance of liposomal formulations is essential for the development of modern drugs.
Analysis of the key component puff-by-puff transport in special segments and aerosol for electrical heated tobacco product
Authors: Jin Xinyan , Meng Decai , Fu Lili , Zhao Yang , Zhang Qi , Zhang Zhan , Yin Xianzhong , Shen Qinpeng , Wang Shuang , Zhang Yue , Wang Le , Lei Ping , Li Bin 
Published: November 2024

Understanding the puff-by-puff delivery mechanisms of key components of heated tobacco products is critical to developing product designs. This study investigates the puff-by-puff release patterns of key components in Natural Smoke Cigarettes (NSCs), which are designed to deliver nicotine without combustion by reducing oxygen content, utilizing a 30-s puff interval, a 2-s puff duration, and a 55 mL puff volume to simulate realistic smoking conditions. By establishing models to analyze the variation of nicotine, glycerol, 1,2-propylene glycol (PG), and water in different functional sections of the cigarette under controlled smoking conditions. These sections include the tobacco, hollow, cooling, and filter sections, constituting the structure of NSCs. In addition, the model calculates the port-by-port release of the components in the flue gas aerosol and compares it with the measured value. The results showed that: The retention amount in the tobacco section showed a steep decline in the first three puffs, with an overall exponential decrease. The amounts in the other sections were consistent, increasing in the first two puffs and then stabilizing. The retention amount decreased linearly with each puff, with a similar pattern across sections. The release amount peaked at the fourth to fifth puffs and then stabilized. The retention amount in the tobacco section declined exponentially in the first three puffs. It peaked in the second to third puffs in other sections, then decreased with each subsequent puff. The retention amount in the tobacco section showed a significant decline in the first puff, stabilizing at around 4 mg. In other sections, it peaked at the first puff and then rapidly declined. These findings can inform the development of reduced-harm smoking products and contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics of smoke generation. Additionally, the study offers a reference for the puff-by-puff release stability of NSCs and the improvement of consumers’ sensory quality.
Ectopic USP15 expression inhibits HIV-1 transcription involving changes in YY1 deubiquitination and stability
Authors: Rezaei Sahar , Timani Khalid A. , Liu Ying , He Johnny J. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionProtein homeostasis is maintained by the opposing action of ubiquitin ligase and deubiquitinase, two important components of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, and contributes to both normal physiological and pathophysiological processes. The current study aims to delineate the roles of ubiquitin-specific protease 15 (USP15), a member of the largest deubiquitinase family, in HIV-1 gene expression and replication.MethodsWe took advantage of highly selective and specific ubiquitin variants (UbV), which were recently designed and developed for USP15, and ascertained the inhibitory effects of USP15 on HIV-1 gene expression and production by transfection and Western blotting. We also used real-time RT-PCR, transcription factor profiling, subcellular fractionation, immunoprecipitation followed by Western blotting to determine the transcription factors involved and the underlying molecular mechanisms.ResultsWe first confirmed the specificity of USP15-mediated HIV-1 gene expression and virus production. We then showed that the inhibition of HIV-1 production by USP15 occurred at the transcription level, associated with an increased protein level of YY1, a known HIV-1 transcription repressor. Moreover, we demonstrated that USP15 regulated YY1 deubiquitination and stability. Lastly, we demonstrated that YY1 siRNA knockdown significantly diminished the inhibition of USP15 on HIV-1 gene expression and virus production.ConclusionThese findings together demonstrate that stabilization of YY1 protein by USP15 deubiquitinating activity contributes to USP15-mediated inhibition of HIV-1 transcription and may help the development of USP15-specific UbV inhibitors as an anti-HIV strategy.
Ticks without borders: microbiome of immature neotropical tick species parasitizing migratory songbirds along northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Karim Shahid , Zenzal Theodore J. , Beati Lorenza , Sen Raima , Adegoke Abdulsalam , Kumar Deepak , Downs Latoyia P. , Keko Mario , Nussbaum Ashly , Becker Daniel J. , Moore Frank R. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe long-distance, seasonal migrations of birds make them an effective ecological bridge for the movement of ticks. The introduction of exotic tick species to new geographical regions can cause the emergence of novel tick-borne pathogens. This study examined the prevalence of exotic tick species parasitizing migratory songbirds at stopover sites along the northern Gulf of Mexico using the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene.MethodsOverall, 421 individual ticks in the genera Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis, and Ixodes were recorded from 28 songbird species, of which Amblyomma and Amblyomma longirostre were the most abundant tick genera and species, respectively. A high throughput 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing approach characterized the microbial communities and identified pathogenic microbes in all tick samples.Results and discussionMicrobial profiles showed that Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum. The most abundant pathogens were Rickettsia and endosymbiont Francisella, Candidatus Midichloria, and Spiroplasma. Permutation multivariate analysis of variance revealed that the relative abundance of Francisella and Rickettsia drives microbial patterns across the tick genera. We also noted a higher percentage of positive correlations in microbe-microbe interactions among members of the microbial communities. Network analysis suggested a negative correlation between a) Francisella and Rickettsia and, b) Francisella and Cutibacterium. Lastly, mapping the distributions of bird species parasitized during spring migrations highlighted geographic hotspots where migratory songbirds could disperse ticks and their pathogens at stopover sites or upon arrival to their breeding grounds, the latter showing mean dispersal distances from 421–5003 kilometers. These findings spotlight the potential role of migratory birds in the epidemiology of tick-borne pathogens.
Right ventricular function and anemia in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Wang Jia , Jiang Jiahui , Li Xiang , Tan Xilun , Zhou Yanni , Luo Ze , Wang Xuesen , Zhao Xuezhu , Liu Yiying , Wang Ming , Zhang Chenhao 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAnemia is a common complication in patients with heart failure and is associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. However, its role in right ventricular (RV) function has not been evaluated.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the electronic medical data of 1,014 Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) patients to evaluate the relationship between anemia and RV dysfunction in patients with HFpEF and whether this relationship is influenced by classical risk factors such as smoking and hypertension.ResultsThe study showed that anemic patients were older and had significantly higher New York Heart Association functional class and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) than non-anemic patients. The level of hemoglobin (Hb) had a weak negative linear correlation with NT-pro-BNP (log-transform, r = 0.30, P &lt; 0.0001) and a positively correlation with the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) ratio (r = 0.44, P &lt; 0.0001). Multivariate linear regression analysis shows that the degree of anemia, atrial fibrillation, and TR were independently associated with the TAPSE/PASP ratio.ConclusionAnemia in HFpEF is associated with RV dysfunction, and this relationship is not affected by classical risk factors, such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes.
Case Report: Zero-contrast balloon pulmonary angioplasty guided by real-time fusion of CT angiography with x-ray fluoroscopy
Authors: Tang Yinjiang , Xu Ou , Zhang Chunmei , Bao Xia , Ye Shaodong 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundAllergy to iodine contrast agents has long been a contraindication for balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA). We report the successful zero-contrast BPA procedure of a patient with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and severe iodine allergy using real-time fusion of computed tomography angiography (CTA) with x-ray fluoroscopy.Case presentationA 62-year-old woman with CTEPH who developed a severe allergic reaction after the first BPA procedure. The second BPA procedure was successfully performed using the fusion of previous pulmonary artery CTA images and real-time fluoroscopy images. Pulmonary artery pressure showed a significant decrease after performing BPA twice. As of 6-month follow-up, the patient has recovered well.Conclusion3 Dimensions (3D) reconstruction of CTA images and real-time fluoroscopic image fusion navigation technology provide a new option for BPA treatment in patients allergic to iodine contrast agents.
Association between weight-adjusted waist circumference index and myocardial infarction: results from the national health and nutrition examination survey, 1999–2014
Authors: Yu Jian-hong , Yin Ming-gang 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundWeight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI) is a novel index related to obesity and has been associated with the risk and prognosis of several diseases. The aim of the study was to determine the association between WWI and myocardial infarction.MethodsThe study analyzed cross-sectional data from 31,535 participants derived from the 1999–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset. Multiple logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were conducted to assess both linear and nonlinear associations between WWI and myocardial infarction. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests were also performed.ResultsAmong the 31,535 participants analyzed, 1,449 (4.82%) had experienced a myocardial infarction. The fully adjusted models demonstrated a positive association between WWI and myocardial infarction [odds ratio (OR) = 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13–1.58]. Individuals in the highest quartile of WWI were 81% more likely to suffer from a myocardial infarction compared to those in the lowest quartile (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.24–2.63). The analysis employing restricted cubic spline modeling indicated a nonlinear positive correlation between WWI and myocardial infarction. The risk of myocardial infarction was 1.29 times higher when WWI was below 10.97 cm/√kg (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.37–3.84). When WWI exceeded 10.97 cm/√kg, the upward trend in the risk of myocardial infarction significantly slowed with increasing WWI (OR = 1.26, 95%CI:1.03–1.56). A threshold WWI value of greater than 11.15 cm/√kg was identified for predicting myocardial infarction, outperforming waist circumference and body mass index (BMI). Subgroup analyses revealed that the impact of WWI on myocardial infarction varied across different populations. Interaction analyses demonstrated significant interactions between myocardial infarction incidence and WWI with age, hypertension, coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, and stroke (P for interaction &lt;0.05), but not with gender, race, obesity, diabetes, or prediabetes and heart failure (P for interaction &gt;0.05).ConclusionsThe findings suggest that there is a positive and non-linear association between WWI and the incidence of myocardial infarction. We recommend incorporating WWI into routine physical examinations and cardiovascular risk screening as an early warning mechanism. This may facilitate early identification of high-risk individuals and promote earlier preventive interventions.
Identification of key genes and immune infiltration of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in mice and humans based on bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhang Yumin , Zhou Hui , Liu Juan , Zhou Nan 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundDiabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common chronic complication of diabetes, while the underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. The aim of this study was to screen the key genes and the roles of immune infiltration in DPN using bioinformatics analysis.MethodsDPN mice datasets including GSE222778, GSE11343, GSE70852, GSE27382, and GSE34889 were retrieved from the GEO database. Data of human DPN were retrieved from the dbGaP. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected and further analyzed by using Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to find the shared key pathway. Protein–protein interaction networks were built in shared mouse and human DEGs. The hub genes were selected and verified in vitro using high- glucose-treated PC12 cells and Schwann cells. The single-sample GSEA (ssGSEA) algorithm was used to analyze the proportions of infiltrating immune cells in human DPN and the subsequent correlations with hub genes.ResultsA total of 323 mouse DEGs and 501 human DEGs were selected, and they were found significantly enriched in immune-related biological functions and pathways. A total of 13 DEGs were found shared in mice and human DPN datasets, and among them, there were 7 hub genes, namely, PLAUR, S100A8, IL7R, CXCL13, SRPX2, CD300LB, and CFI. The expression of Cfi, S100a8, Cxcl13, and Cd300lb was consistently confirmed in vitro. The scores of neutrophils and NK CD56bright cells varied most significantly by immune cell infiltration analysis (p &lt; 0.01). Furthermore, the selected hub genes were found to be highly correlated with the immune infiltration.ConclusionOur study indicated the importance of immune dysregulations in DPN and identified several hub genes through combined analysis in mice and human DPN samples, thus providing potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets in the future.
The feasibility of using a multivariate regression model incorporating ultrasound findings and serum markers to predict thyroid cancer metastasis
Authors: Li Hong , Zhang Lanli , Wang Yanbing , Tong Shengju , Shi Yang , Lu Shengnan , Bu Yanling 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the viability of a multivariate regression model utilizing ultrasound findings and serum markers for predicting thyroid cancer metastasis.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 98 thyroid patients admitted from January 2022 to October 2022 was conducted to categorize them into a metastasis group (n=20) and a non-metastasis group (n=78) based on postoperative pathological results. Both groups underwent ultrasound examination and serum marker testing. Correlative analysis was performed to explore the association between various indicators and thyroid cancer metastasis. A multivariate regression model was developed, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the predictive value of ultrasound findings, serum markers, and their combination for thyroid cancer metastasis.ResultsStatistically significant differences were found in the levels of ultrasound findings and serum markers between the two groups. Nodule boundaries, presence or absence of halos, margins, lobulation, capsular invasion, surface smoothness, nodule aspect ratio, uric acid, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol levels were predictors of metastasis in thyroid cancer. The AUC value of 0.950 for the prediction of thyroid cancer metastasis by ultrasound signs combined with serologic indicators was significantly higher than 0.728 and 0.711 predicted by ultrasound signs or serologic indicators alone.ConclusionThe multivariate regression model incorporating ultrasound findings and serum markers enhances the predictive accuracy for thyroid cancer metastasis, offering essential guidance for early prediction and intervention in a clinical setting.
Prenatal depressive symptoms in Latinas: a qualitative investigation
Authors: Almeida Isabel F. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionExposure to prenatal depressive symptoms is associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and child health complications. Research examining experiences of maternal depression among Latinas living in the United States, who have increased risk for experiencing prenatal depression symptoms, is lacking.ObjectivesThe purpose of this qualitative investigation is to examine the experience of prenatal depression symptoms among Latinas primarily of Mexican descent.MethodsFourteen pregnant Latinas shared their experiences of depressive symptoms during pregnancy in individual interviews and one focus group conducted in Spanish.ResultsThe most described symptoms of depression were periods of crying for no reason; feelings of irritability, sadness, and loneliness; and a loss of interest in normal activities. The participants coped with their depressive symptoms through distraction. Additionally, participants shared their beliefs that experiencing prenatal depressive symptoms was normal due to hormonal changes and that social support was protective. Themes about the baby “feeling” the mother's emotions during pregnancy and that prenatal depression is misunderstood also emerged.ConclusionsThese findings shed light on how Latina's experience maternal depressive symptoms and call for additional research on risk factors during the perinatal period among this growing subpopulation.
Long term survival and outcomes in patients with paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes
Authors: Bar Mucha Sapir , Rozenberg Ayal , Gutter Kapon Lilach , Gorenshtein Alon , Ganelin-Cohen Esther , Ben Hayun Rachel , Yarovinsky Nataliya , Shelly Shahar 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveIt is unknown whether delay in diagnosis affects morbidity reportedly in paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS). We aimed to explore various aspects of PNS, including prevalence, clinical characteristics, diagnostic criteria, and treatment outcomes.MethodsWe studied n-PNS diagnosis between 2016 to 2023, and included only patients with positive onconeural antibodies, who developed cancer, and exhibited a recognizable PNS phenotype.ResultsWe identified 12 patients with positive Abs and co-occurring cancer, most prevalent PNS antibodies included anti-GAD65, anti-Recoverin and anti-Yo. The most common phenotypes were limbic encephalitis (n=5, 42%) and encephalomyelitis (n=4,33%). Cancer preceded neurological presentation in 6 cases. Among the 6 patients who initially presented with n-PNS, median time from neurological presentation to oncologic diagnosis was 73 days, as five of them (83%) were diagnosed with cancer during oncological evaluation prompted by the PNS diagnosis or suspicion. Lymphoma was the most frequent cancer (n=3, 25%), followed by lung cancer (n=2, 17%), and ovarian cancer (n=2, 17%). Among patients who received immunotherapy as n-PNS treatment (n=9, 75%), steroids were a part of the management at 78% (n=7). Another immunotherapy used included plasmapheresis (n=5, 55%) and steroid sparing immunosuppressant (n=2, 29%). Four (33%) patients had short term therapeutic benefit with improvement or stabilization at mRS ≤ 4. Median Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), as disease burden value, was 13 years. Death occurred in 9 of the 12 patients, with most cases deaths attributed to cancer progression. Compering to the expected median survival by type and stage of tumor, from 9 deceased patients, 56% (n=5) died younger than expected. Median survival was 410 days (range 29-2738 days), and 152 days since the appearance of n-PNS (range 8-1434 days). There were no differences in survival between patients who initially presented with n-PNS versus cancer (p=0.39).ConclusionIn up to 8 years of follow up, there was no difference in mortality among patients who presented initially n-PNS. There was a significant decline in the quality of life, most face substantial disability and functional impairment long term.