bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of colchicine against osteoarthritis in rat induced by monosodium iodoacetate
Authors: Ibraheem Medhat , Mahmoud Ahmad Mostafa ,   Nahla Abd Elaal Ahmed3, Aziz Hekmat O. Abdel , Elnasr Suzan Elsayed Abd 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating condition that can severely limit an individual’s mobility and quality of life. This study evaluated the efficacy of colchicine therapy in promoting cartilage healing in a rat model with monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced knee OA. This was assessed through semiquantitative radiographic features as well as histological and biochemical alterations.
Methods
Rats were given an intra-articular injection of MIA on day zero to induce knee OA. After that, 40 Wistar albino female rats were split into 4 groups at random (10 rats/each group): a negative control group, an osteoarthritic control group, an osteoarthritic reference group receiving a meloxicam®, and an osteoarthritic group receiving an intraperitoneal injection of colchicine. The body weight and knee diameter were recorded once per week. Semiquantitative radiographic imaging and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) analysis of serum inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1beta (IL-β) and anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10 (IL-10), were carried out before the end of the trial. Finally, hematoxylin/and eosin stains were used for histological investigation.
Results
Colchicine significantly reduced the osteoarthritic conditions after six weeks of supplementation. We observed decreased joint diameters in response to treatment in OA animals. Colchicine significantly decreased IL-1β (p = 0.000) and increased the IL-10 (p = 0.000) in the serum of osteoarthritic rats in response to treatment in OA rats compared to the OA group with no treatment. Colchicine improved the histological structure of the knee joint and lowered the radiographic scores of osteoarthritic rats.
Conclusion
These results point to the potential benefit of colchicine in treating rats with MIA-induced knee OA by postponing cartilage deterioration and reducing the activity of inflammatory mediators.
Outcomes of Adjuvant Radiation Treatment Following Subtotal Resection of World Health Organization Grade II Meningiomas
Authors: Petitt Jordan C. , Murayi Roger , El-Abtah Mohamed E. , Momin Arbaz , Halima Ahmed , Potter Tamia , Ahorukomeye Peter , BA Jakub Jarmula , MA Mihika Thapliyal , Murphy Erin S. , Chao Samuel T. , Suh John H. , Recinos Pablo F. , Kshettry Varun R. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Existing literature on adjuvant radiation after subtotal resection (STR) of WHO II meningiomas is limited by heterogenous patient cohorts, combining adjuvant and salvage radiation, gross total resection (GTR) and STR, primary radiation treatment vs re-treatment, or grade II and III meningiomas, all of which have different expected outcomes. Tumor control estimates in a large homogenous patient cohort are needed to accurately counsel patients.
Methods: A retrospective review of patients that had immediate post-operative imaging-confirmed residual WHO grade II meningioma followed by either adjuvant intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) between 1996 to 2020 was conducted. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test was used to assess progression-free survival (PFS).
Results: Thirty-nine patients met inclusion criteria (IMRT=32; SRS=7). Overall, the 3-, 5-, and 10-year PFS was 81.1%, 61.2%, and 44.6%, respectively. Median follow-up time was 37 months. When comparing IMRT and SRS cohorts, baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between groups, but significantly larger residual tumor volumes were treated with IMRT (22.2 cm3 vs 6.3 cm3, p=0.004). PFS was not significantly different between IMRT and SRS at 3 years (81.1% vs 80.0%) or 5 years (65.5% vs 40%) (p=0.19). There was no significant difference in radiation necrosis between groups (IMRT=3/32 patients vs SRS=0/7 patients, p=0.32).
Conclusion: Our homogenous patient cohort displayed acceptable control rates at 3 years using SRS or IMRT as adjuvant therapy. No significant difference in PFS or radiation necrosis was noted between patients treated with adjuvant IMRT versus SRS.
Photon Irradiation Prompts Autophagy in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Wächter Sabine , Knauff Franziska , Roth Silvia , Krasser-Gercke Norman , Roth Katrin , Bartsch Detlef Klaus , Fazio Pietro Di 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Although promising results have been obtained for anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) therapy, this therapy still needs to be improved. In addition to the currently approved therapies, radiotherapy alone or combined with adjuvant immunotherapy could be beneficial for patients affected by ATC. The patients affected by this aggressive solid malignancy could benefit from the modulation of autophagy in cancer cells. This study focused on detecting autophagy players in ATCs and bursting autophagy process via photon irradiation to induce decay in irradiated ATCs. The transcript expression of autophagy genes was detected in tumor tissue resected from 19 patients and in C643 cells, four primary ATC cell lines and primary follicular thyroid cell line (Nthy-ori-3-1) photons irradiated with 4 or 6 Gy. The protein level of Beclin1 was detected by immunofluorescence in 10/19 patients. The levels of autophagy markers were detected by RT‒qPCR and western blotting in irradiated cells. Autophagy and maturation of autophagosome vesicles were monitored in C643 cells stably transfected with the GFP-RFP-LC3B plasmid. All patients included in the study exhibited significant overexpression of autophagy transcripts. Additionally, the Beclin1 protein was expressed in resected tumor tissue. Furthermore, the analysis of autophagy-related gene transcripts revealed significant increases in the expression of these genes in C643, Patient 2 and Patient 3 cells irradiated with 4 or 6 Gy. Additionally, irradiation with 4 or 6 Gy downregulated the expression of all the proteins involved in the autophagy process. Thus, the ongoing catabolic process was confirmed. Interestingly, the levels of AMPKα and its active phosphorylated form were strongly downregulated, which excluded its involvement in autophagy activation. 6 Gy photon irradiation caused an increase in both green and red fluorescence in C643-derived spheroids. An increase in fluorescence was detectable for up to 28 days. The spheroids gradually exhibited an increase in fluorescence, which probably caused the dismantling of their ultrastructure. This finding provides evidence of the bursting of autophagy and its ability to affect spheroid integrity. Photon irradiation exacerbates autophagy in anaplastic thyroid cancer cells and could represent a valid target for focused therapy against this aggressive malignancy.
Forearm bone mineral density as a predictor of adjacent vertebral refracture after percutaneous kyphoplasty in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture
Authors: Wang Jinzhou , Xie Xiansong , Gou Yuwei , Wu Yucheng , Pu Hongyu , chen qian , He Jiangtao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: The incidence of adjacent vertebral body re-fracture after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) is associated with a number of variables, of which decreased bone mineral density is one of the major risk factors. Forearm bone mineral density (BMD) measurements are gaining attention because of their convenience and validity, but there is a lack of systematic research on the specific relationship between forearm BMD and the risk of adjacent vertebral re-fracture after PKP.
Purpose: to investigate the correlation between forearm BMD and the risk of adjacent vertebral re-fracture after PKP in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures（OVCF）patients.
Methods: Retrospective evaluation of 198 OVCF patients receiving PKP was conducted in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: the no-fracture group and the re-fracture group, according to whether or not they had undergone vertebral re-fracture. Basic data were obtained, including age, gender, BMI, history of smoking, history of diabetes, and surgery segment. Using computed tomography, the mean Hounsfield unit (HU) values for the BMD of the L1 lumbar spine were determined. For the dual-energy X-ray (DXA) BMD test, the distal one-third lengths of the patient's nondominant forearm's radius and ulna were chosen. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were utilized to evaluate the predictive value of forearm BMD versus lumbar CT values for vertebral re-fracture, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify characteristics related with vertebral re-fracture following PKP.
Results: Re-fracture rate after PKP was 17.2% at a minimum 12-month follow-up. The mean forearm BMD (0.21 ± 0.05 vs. 0.36 ± 0.08, p < 0.05) and mean HU values (88.7 ± 11.9 vs. 124.3 ± 16.3, p < 0.05) were lower in the re-fractured group than in the unfractured group. In multifactorial logistic regression analysis, forearm bone density (OR 0.819; 95%CI 0.753-0.894, p = 0.006) and HU values (OR 0.806; 95%CI 0.752-0.881, p = 0.004) were independent risk factors for vertebral re-fracture. The area under the curve (AUC) for forearm BMD values and HU values predicting adjacent vertebral re-fracture were 0.956 and 0.967, respectively.
Conclusions: Forearm BMD is an independent risk factor for re-fracture of adjacent vertebrae after PKP. In addition, forearm BMD, as a valid indicator of postoperative re-fracture after PKP in patients with OVCF, and the HU value of lumbar spine CT were both powerful tools for predicting re-fracture.
Housing distance, Salt intake and Cardiovascular Risk in Rural Aceh Tamiang: Insights from a 10 Year Non-Laboratory Assessment
Authors: Fitri Nadya Keumala , Saragih Yusrina Br , Sari Dina Keumala 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Ischemic heart disease and stroke are among the primary reasons for mortality, making a substantial contribution to the nation's health challenges. Implementing public health campaigns that emphasise prevention, early detection, and effective management is essential, especially in rural areas. Consequently, targeted screening programs within these communities are greatly warranted. To examine the representation of CVD Risk in the Karang Baru region in Aceh Tamiang. A cross-sectional survey using a questionnaire survey. The 10-year cardiovascular risk scores were calculated based on the region-specific World Health Organization cardiovascular disease risk charts. Among 1035 participants, 22.5% are within the high-risk range, The majority (40.8%) is within the 5–10% estimated 10-year risk. Notable significant predictors with the strongest is the unmodifiable gender, and followed by the modifiable smoking, salt consumption, and house distance to the assigned CHC. This study highlights the demographic characteristics and significant relationships between different risk classes, providing valuable insights into the distribution and characteristics of various risk groups in the Karang Baru region.
Study of the Impact of Green Finance Reform and Innovation Pilot Zones on Total Factor Carbon Productivity in Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhang Youzhi , Bian Rumeng , Liu Yinke , Wang Jingyi , Zhao Jing 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

With global climate change, environmental pollution and other problems becoming increasingly prominent, green finance has gradually become a powerful driver of green development. On the basis of the panel data of 282 cities in China from 2012 to 2022, an SBM-GML model is first applied to measure the total factor carbon productivity of cities; then, the establishment of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones is regarded as a quasinatural experiment, and a multiperiod DID method is adopted to test the impact of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones on the total factor carbon productivity of cities in stages. The study reveals that (1) the construction of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones can significantly increase urban total factor carbon productivity and is robust; (2) the heterogeneity test reveals that the construction of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones can significantly increase total factor carbon productivity in the eastern, central and western regions, with the effect being more obvious in the western region; and (3) a mechanism test reveals that the construction of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones can enhance urban total factor carbon productivity by improving the level of green innovation and promoting the ecological industrial structure, whereas public environmental concern can effectively enhance the policy effect of green financial reform and innovation pilot zones on urban total factor carbon productivity.
Znrf2-mediated Ubiquitination of ST2L Regulates Cardiac Fibrosis and Remodeling after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: BAO HAILONG , CHEN XIN , CHEN BINGXIU , ZHOU WEI , YAN FEI , HUANG RUNZE , LI WEI , chen zhangrong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a leading cause of cardiac death, primarily driven by myocardial necrosis resulting from coronary artery occlusion. Post-MI, ventricular remodeling, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, frequently progresses to heart failure. The IL-33/ST2L signaling axis is known for its protective role in mitigating fibrosis following MI. However, this effect is antagonized by the soluble form of ST2 (sST2), which inhibits the interaction between IL-33 and ST2L. In this study, we investigated the role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase Znrf2 in regulating ST2L degradation in a mouse model of MI. Through a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments, including protein ubiquitination assays, plasmid transfections, and immunoblotting, we demonstrated that Znrf2 selectively mediates ST2L ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation, impairing its anti-fibrotic function. Inhibition of Znrf2 expression stabilized ST2L, enhanced IL-33 signaling, significantly reduced cardiac fibrosis, and improved cardiac function post-MI. The zinc finger motif of Znrf2 was identified as essential for this interaction, as mutations in this domain abolished ST2L degradation. These findings suggest that Znrf2-mediated ST2L ubiquitination is a key regulator of cardiac fibrosis, offering a potential therapeutic target for improving post-MI cardiac recovery. Further studies are warranted to validate these results in human models and explore additional molecular targets of Znrf2.
Lactobacillus Plantarum Mediated Tryptophan Metabolism to Alleviate Tropomyosin-induced Food Allergy Through the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor
Authors: Ma Jing , Tong Pengyan , Jia Yining , Yan Zhuomin , Ren Xiaojing , Zhao Mengya , Long Fangyu 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Recently, food allergy (FA) has become increasingly prevalent, affecting daily life and possibly endangering lives. Probiotics ameliorate FA by modulating immune-microbial interactions. However, the effective metabolites and mechanism of alleviating FA in Lactobacillus Plantarum (L. Plantarum) remain to be elucidated.
Results: In the present study, L. Plantarum strains JM113, PA01, and 21805 demonstrated the ability to improve FA by modulating regulatory T (Treg)/Th1/Th2 balance, reshaping gut microbial composition, and regulating gut metabolites. Tropomyosin sensitisation was associated with a decreased in the levels of 5-Hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA) in cecum contents, as evidenced in the serum of mice and patients with FA. Cellular experiments revealed that tryptophan (Trp), tryptamine, tryptophol, kynurenine, 5-HIAA, and indole-3-acetamide inhibited the degranulation of RHL-2H cells; however, these benefits were eliminated by AHR antagonist CH223191. Furthermore, in vivo results suggested that 5-HIAA and Trp diets downregulated levels of IgE, β-Hex, HIS, IL-4, IL-13, while upregulated concentrations of IFN-γ, TGF-β to activate AhR-mediated immune response. Intestinal morphological analysis revealed that 5-HIAA and Trp increased the number of cup cells and recover intestinal damage.
Conclusions: In summary, the beneficial effect of 5-HIAA and Trp on FA appear to rely on the AhR-related pathways, providing compelling evidence for the positive role of Trp metabolites in alleviating FA.
Research on calculation method of contact stress of wind turbine main shaft bearing under alternating load
Authors: Zou Yi , Sun Wenlei , Wang Hongwei , Xu Tiantian , Wang Bingkai 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The main shaft bearing of the 2MW wind turbine is an aligning roller bearing, the contact form between the roller and the raceways is very complex, and the calculation method of contact stress is very important. In this paper, the slicing model of the roller is established, and the load-displacement relationship is solved. eight kinds of loads are considered, which affect the life of the wind turbine with a probability of more than 99%, the deformation of the ring and radial clearance is considered, an elastic contact model in finite element software is established, the relationship of the load-displacement is taking as the boundary condition. This method is applied to the main shaft bearing of wind turbine and verified. The results indicate that the contact form of the aligning roller bearing varies with the load, the proposed method makes more rollers contact the raceway, and reduces the contact stress between the roller and the raceway. And the carrying capacity of the bearing is improved, it can provide greater space for the optimization design of the bearing. The proposed method provides reference for contact design of the bearing.
Sexual satisfaction on PrEP, and what else?
Authors: SAVEL Carine , LAMBERT Céline , GONCALVES Emilie , BACHE Morgane RUDE , MOUMOUNI Abla ANTHONY , NEHME Evelyne , GOURDON Florence , CORBIN Violaine , JACOMET Christine 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background : Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM), reduces the risk of HIV transmission and contributes to their sexual well-being. But what about the overall sexual health satisfaction of MSM (sexual satisfaction, emotional satisfaction, changes in risk behaviour, number of STIs) and its determinants?
Methods: Multicentre observational cross-sectional study of all MSM on PrEP followed up in seven dedicated care centres in Auvergne for at least one year. Satisfaction and risk behaviour were measured using 5-point Likert scales and 10-point numerical rating scales respectively.
Results : Of the 151 MSM followed up, 51,47% of whom were aged over 46, had been on PrEP for a median of 2.7 [1.8; 4.2] years and agreed to take part in the study. Their overall sexual satisfaction improved significantly (p<0.001) due to a reduction in anxiety linked to HIV infection. Their emotional satisfaction remained stable (p=0.11), explained by some as being due solely to the way they met via apps. Risk behaviour increased (p<0.001), as did the number of chlamydia infections (p=0.04).
The factors associated with sexual satisfaction on PrEP were greater acceptance of one's sexuality by friends (9.6 ± 1.1 vs. 7.8 ± 2.9, p=0.003), the absence of sexual dysfunction (91.4% sexual satisfaction among MSM without sexual dysfunction vs. 62.5% in MSM with sexual dysfunction, p=0.02), and a lower depression score on the hospital anxiety and depression scale (2 [1; 4] vs. 4 [3; 6], p=0.006).
Conclusion : In the short term, of the components of sexual health assessed (sexual satisfaction, emotional satisfaction, risk behaviours and number of STIs), the only improvement experienced by PrEP users is sexual satisfaction, which for some requires access to mental health and sexology care. It is vital that the MSM population should benefit from an integrated range of healthcare services, both in specialised centres and with general practitioners. PrEP should not be considered simply as a pill, but as an opportunity for patient-centred care.
Trial registration: The protocol was registered with the National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products under N° 2021-A01579-32.
The prevalence and correlates of early marriages for women aged 20-29 in Zimbabwe: An analysis of the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS)
Authors: Bvurume E , Mangombe K , Mhlanga K , Lwanga C 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Early marriage remains a significant public health issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. It has the potential to deprive adolescent girls of their sexual and reproductive rights and expose them to the risks associated with early and high-risk fertility behavior. This study analyzes the prevalence and factors associated with early marriages in Zimbabwe.
Methods
The analysis utilized data from the 2019 Zimbabwe Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. A pooled weighted sub-sample of 2219 women aged 20–29 was used for the study. Statistical analysis was carried out using the R-Studio software package, version 3, considering complex survey design analysis. Logistic regression models were used to examine the correlations between individual-level factors and early marital behavior.
Results
According to the study, 40.9% of women were married before reaching adulthood. The research found a strong correlation between early sexual initiation as strongly related to early marriage (OR = 7.311, p < 0.005), living in the Mashonaland provinces, particularly Mashonaland East, and an increased likelihood of child marriage (OR = 4.1169, p < 0.005). Furthermore, religious affiliation and level of education were also identified as independent factors that elevate the risk of child marriage.
Conclusion
The research highlighted the necessity of implementing coordinated strategies across different policy and community levels to empower girls, provide education, and ensure protection. These strategies are crucial for addressing the structural, sociocultural, and individual barriers effectively. The study underscored the importance of the evidence presented, which can guide policy-making and the development of targeted interventions to combat child marriage in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, it recommended that future qualitative research should delve deeper into community and intergenerational factors and utilize mixed methods to explore the issues associated with high early marriage rates in the Mashonaland provinces.
Improving Water Productivity in Greenhouse and Open-Field Vegetable Crops
Authors: Alomran Abdulrasoul , Alharbi Abdulaziz , Obadi Abdullah 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Improving water productivity in arid and semi-arid regions by using clean technologies and sustainable solutions in agri-food systems is essential for food security and protecting the environment. A series of studies were conducted to improve water productivity in protected cultivation and open-field agriculture. This includes adding biochar as soil amendments and sub-drip irrigation for different vegetable crops. Also, some irrigation practices, such as regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) and partial root-zone drying (PRD), were tested using different irrigation water quality. When 5% biochar was applied with fresh water increased tomato plants' yield under various irrigation treatments. The yield increased by 4.60%, 16.74%, 8.67%, and 2.97% at 100%, 80%, 60%, and 40% ETc, respectively. Tomato plants treated with biochar and irrigated with fresh water under 40% deficit irrigation showed a remarkable 97.02% increase in water use efficiency compared to those under full irrigation. Adding other organic materials, such as compost, also improved WUE. Compared to the control treatment, biochar 2% + Compost 2% increased WUE by 54.0%. PRD consistently achieved greater irrigation efficiency, especially with subsurface irrigation. Sub-drip Irrigation (SDI) was also tested in an open-field study with potato plants. An SDI system with full irrigation (I100) maximized potato yield, while deficit irrigation (I50) improved water use efficiency (IWUE).