bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
N-acetylcysteine attenuates sodium arsenite-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in embryonic fibroblast cells
Authors: Tasci Tunahan , Orta-Yilmaz Banu , Aydin Yasemin , Caliskan Mahmut 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
In recent years, the increase in environmental pollutants has been one of the most important factors threatening human and environmental health. Arsenic, a naturally occurring element found in soil, water, and air, easily enters the human body and leads to many metabolic disorders. In this study, we focused on the possible protective effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against sodium arsenite (As)-induced toxic effects on embryonic fibroblast cells. The effects of As and NAC treatment on cells were evaluated, including cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Embryonic fibroblast cells were exposed to As (ranging from 0.01 μM to 10 μM) and NAC (at a concentration of 2 mM) for 24 h. The assessment of cytotoxicity markers, such as cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), showed that As significantly reduced cell viability and increased LDH levels. Furthermore, we observed that As increased the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cell, decreased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and triggered apoptosis in cells. Additionally, our research revealed that the administration of NAC mitigates the detrimental effects of As. The results showed that As exerted hazardous effects on embryonic fibroblast cells through the induction of oxidative stress and apoptosis. In this context, our study provides evidence that NAC may have a protective effect against the toxicity of As in embryonic fibroblast cells.
Inhibition of TFEB deacetylation in proximal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) promotes TFEB activation and alleviates TEC damage in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Zhang Yaozhi , Chen Huixia , Wu Yang , Chen Yongming , Gong Siqiao , Liu Yonghan , Liu Huafeng 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe inhibition of the autophagolysosomal pathway mediated by transcription factor EB (TFEB) inactivation in proximal tubular epithelial cells (TECs) is a key mechanism of TEC injury in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Acetylation is a novel mechanism that regulates TFEB activity. However, there are currently no studies on whether the adjustment of the acetylation level of TFEB can reduce the damage of diabetic TECs. In this study, we investigated the effect of Trichostatin A (TSA), a typical deacetylase inhibitor, on TFEB activity and damage to TECs in both in vivo and in vitro models of DKD. Here, we show that TSA treatment can alleviate the pathological damage of glomeruli and renal tubules and delay the DKD progression in db/db mice, which is associated with the increased expression of TFEB and its downstream genes. In vitro studies further confirmed that TSA treatment can upregulate the acetylation level of TFEB, promote its nuclear translocation, and activate the expression of its downstream genes, thereby reducing the apoptosis level of TECs. TFEB deletion or HDAC6 knockdown in TECs can counteract the activation effect of TSA on autophagolysosomal pathway. We also found that TFEB enhances the transcription of Tfeb through binding to its promoter and promotes its own expression. Our results, thus, provide a novel therapeutic mechanism for DKD that the alleviation of TEC damage by activating the autophagic lysosomal pathway through upregulating TFEB acetylation can, thus, delay DKD progression.
Integrative therapeutics for ocular surface disorders
Authors: Kourosh Atoosa , Nanda Anil , Sheth Dipa K. , Parmer Fariba Eshraghi 
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review
Integrative medicine techniques are increasingly accepted into the treatment paradigm for many chronic disorders including eye disease. Over 71% of patients, including 67% of those with eye disorders, use some form of Integrative therapy. Physicians should be well versed in evidence-based therapies to know how to refer patients for the best complimentary care. We highlight the most effective integrative therapeutics from different complementary treatment paradigms to offer a framework for approaching therapy in patients with ocular surface disorders (OSDs).

Recent findings
Lifestyle and behavioral modifications help a proportion of people with OSDs like dry eye disease and allergic conjunctivitis, which are interrelated disorders. Nutrition and supplementation can also play a role in addressing underlying inflammation and improving OSD symptoms. Acupuncture and traditional herbal medicine may also benefit some patients. New technologies offer innovative treatment pathways in the treatment of OSD but require referral to Ocular Surface Treatment Centers.

Summary
Integrative treatment approach for OSD incorporates allopathic medicine, traditional remedies and lifestyle behavioral interventions, Ayurveda and herbal medicine, Nutritional Supplements, Homeopathy, Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. New cutting-edge technologies offer breakthroughs in difficult to treat ocular surface cases. Collaboration between allergy or otolaryngology offices, complementary practitioners, as well as optometrists and ophthalmologists in Ocular Surface Treatment Centers can offer patients new avenues of treatment.
Pediatric Neural Changes to Physical and Emotional Pain After Intensive Interdisciplinary Pain Treatment
Authors: Lepping Rebecca J. , Hoffart Cara M. , Bruce Amanda S. , Taylor Jasmine M. , Mardis Neil J. , Lim Seung-Lark , Wallace Dustin P. 
Published: August 2024

Objective:
Brain areas activated during pain can contribute to enhancing or reducing the pain experience, showing a potential connection between chronic pain and the neural response to pain in adolescents and youth.

Methods:
This study examined changes in brain activation associated with experiencing physical pain and observing physical and emotional pain in others by using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) before and after intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT). Eighteen youths (age 14 to 18) with widespread chronic pain completed fMRI testing before and after IIPT to assess changes in brain activation in response to physical and emotional pain.

Results:
Broadly, brain activation changes were observed in frontal, somatosensory, and limbic regions. These changes may suggest improvements in descending pain modulation via thalamus and caudate, and the different pattern of brain activation after treatment suggests potentially better discrimination between physical and emotional pain. Brain activation changes were also correlated with improvements in clinical outcomes of catastrophizing (reduced activation in right caudate, right mid-cingulate, and postcentral gyrus) and pain-related disability (increased activation in precentral gyrus, left hippocampus, right middle occipital cortex, and left superior frontal gyrus).

Discussion:
These changes could indicate that reduced brain protective responses to pain were associated with treatment-related improvements. This pilot study highlights the need for larger trials designed to better understand the brain mechanisms involved in pediatric widespread pain treatment.
The Different Surgical Approaches to Maxillofacial Reconstruction after Ballistic Trauma
Authors: Zeidan Toufic , Kassouf Elia , Ahmadieh Nizar , Nassar Aref , Jabbour Georges , Sleilati Fadi 
Published: August 2024

Background:
Ballistic trauma to the face is a challenge, combining complex bone injury with severe soft tissue loss. The various surgical methods available are influenced by the extent of injuries. This study compares different operative modalities and their outcomes with different variables, aiming to define the ideal therapeutic approach.

Methods:
We retrospectively compared reconstructive modalities used to treat facial ballistic trauma cases at Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon, for a 12-year span. Statistical analysis was used to determine correlation between several factors and satisfactory results.

Results:
Eighteen patients were included, with varying degrees of bone and soft tissue loss. After conservative debridement, fractures were treated by different modalities: open reduction and internal fixation, maxillomandibular fixation, and osteosynthesis with a reconstruction plate. Although primary closure was sufficient in 10 cases, severe loss of tissues was reconstructed with a fibular free flap in five cases, radial free forearm flap in two cases, and free parascapular flap in one case. Two others received an iliac bone graft as secondary reconstruction. The average follow-up was 2.45 years. Most cases achieved good aesthetic and functional results after several secondary operations, with few late complications. Early reconstruction and younger patients were associated with better outcomes.

Conclusions:
We favor early debridement and reconstruction. Free flaps were ideal for extensive tissue loss. Bone grafting was needed secondarily. A single surgical procedure seldom led to satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes, and secondary operations were inevitable.
Whole-Eye Transplantation: How Far Are We From a Breakthrough?
Authors: Bekono-Nessah Ingrid , Duah-Asante Kwaku A. , Poku Daryl , Kankam Hadyn K. N. , Kannan Ruben Y. 
Published: August 2024

Purpose:
Traumatic facial injuries and resultant eye enucleation remain a devastating life-changing event for many. However, whole-eye transplantation (WET) has remained a distant goal until recently. This narrative review explores the existing literature on WET, assesses current hurdles to its success, and considers the ethical challenges to the expansion of WET programs globally.

Method:
The authors identified pertinent keywords by conducting an initial literature exploration which were subsequently used to search scientific databases. In line with the narrative methodology employed in this article, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were not explicitly defined. Nevertheless, the review focused exclusively on articles relating to ocular restoration and reconstructive surgery.

Results:
Though vision restoration remains elusive, burgeoning surgical techniques such as vascularized composite allotransplantation have opened the scope for surgeons to consider WET when planning facial transplants. Dr. Rodriguez and the New York University Langone team’s success supports the recent advancements made in surgical innovation and the potential of CD34-positive stem cells as neuroprotective agents when injected at the optic nerve connection of the recipient. For WET to succeed, vascular and neural structures and the transplanted eye must be considered. Such requirements have been strengthened by the development of microsurgical techniques. In addition to addressing the technical feasibility of WET, it is crucial to deliberate on ethical considerations such as the lifelong implications associated with immunosuppression and, challenges related to the fair division of ocular tissue for WET versus keratoplasty.

Conclusion:
WET amid significant facial trauma has great potential to restore the quality of life in patients, however, more research is required to demonstrate its long-term viability.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Disseminated Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections in Patients With Solid Organ Transplant
Authors: Ong Leong Tung 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIntroductionSolid organ transplant recipients are predisposed to nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections due to the use of immunosuppressant drugs. This metasummary aims to characterize the clinical characteristics and outcomes of disseminated NTM infection in solid organ transplant recipients.MethodsA systematic literature search was conducted using different electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid SP) to identify relevant case reports. Case reports involved patients with diagnosis of disseminated NTM infection after solid organ transplant. Statistical analyses were performed using JMP software (version 15; SAS Institute, Cary, NC).ResultsA total of 34 case reports with 36 patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 49.6 ± 13.0 years, and 44.4% of the patients were male. The majority of the patients had kidney transplant (61.1%). Fever (58.3%) was the most common presenting symptoms of disseminated NTM disease, followed by skin manifestations (44.0%), gastrointestinal symptoms (38.9%), and constitutional symptoms (30.6%). The most frequent organs involved were skin (44.4%), blood (36.1%), and lungs (36.1%). The most common cause of disseminated NTM infection was Mycobacterium avium complex (30.6%). The overall mortality rate was 22.2%. Univariate regression analysis demonstrated that infection of bone marrow (odds ratio, 6.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–34.32) and infection of the gastrointestinal tracts (odds ratio, 8.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.33–52.03) were independent predictors of mortality.ConclusionDisseminated NTM infection in solid organ recipients may present with different clinical features and involve a wide spectrum of different organs.
Posterior capsule opacification with two similar-design hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses: 3-year results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Leydolt Christina , Schartmüller Daniel , Schwarzenbacher Luca , Prenner Veronika , Danzinger Victor , Lisy Marcus , Abela-Formanek Claudette , Menapace Rupert 
Published: August 2024

Purpose:
To compare intraindividually the incidence and intensity of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and Nd:YAG capsulotomy rates between 2 similar open-loop single-piece hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs) differing slightly in their particular material, optic surface, and sharp posterior edge design over a period of 3 years.

Setting:
Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria.

Design:
Randomized, prospective, patient-masked and examiner-masked clinical trial with intraindividual comparison.

Methods:
100 patients randomly received a Vivinex XY1 IOL in 1 eye and a Clareon CNA0T0 IOL in the fellow eye. The amount of PCO (score 0 to 10) was assessed subjectively and objectively with digital retroillumination pictures using automated image analysis software (Automated Quantification of After-Cataract). Corrected distance visual acuity and the presence of glistenings, subjective visual symptoms, and Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rate were noted.

Results:
67 of 100 patients were available for the 3-year follow-up examination. The objective PCO score of the Vivinex XY1 IOLs was 1.0 ± 1.0 compared with the PCO score of 1.5 ± 1.2 for the Clareon CNA0T0 IOLs (P < .001). 7.5% of patients had a Nd:YAG capsulotomy in the Vivinex XY1 eye, and 9.0% had a capsulotomy in the Clareon CNA0T0 eye (P = 1.0).

Conclusions:
Both hydrophobic acrylic IOLs showed low PCO and YAG rates with a small but significant favor of the Vivinex XY1 IOL compared with the Clareon CNA0T0 IOL. The interaction of various factors such as hydrophobic material, smooth optic surface, and sharp posterior optic edge is the major key for PCO prevention.

Clinical Trial Number:
NCT 04369482.
The Unique Challenges of Older Informal Caregivers Living With HIV in the U.S. Deep South: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lee Yookyong , Vance David E. , Batey D. Scott 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
As people with HIV live longer and healthier, it has become more likely that they will assume a caregiver role for their families and/or friends. Yet, there is a significant gap in the literature that older caregivers with HIV (OCWH) have not received attention from practitioners and researchers. To fill the gap, our qualitative study was conducted with OCWH (N = 19) to explore various themes such as adjustment to caregiving, caregiving responsibilities, HIV and other health issues, support systems, caregiving outcomes, needs assessment, cognitive health, and the impact of COVID-19. Results indicated that each OCWH faced their own unique challenges (e.g., severity of health conditions, intense caregiving responsibilities, caregiving situation, lack of social support/transportation/financial means), but they expressed positive and fulfilling caregiving outcomes. Understanding the lived experiences of OCWH is requisite to develop holistic service programs to meet their caregiving needs while supporting their HIV health and co-occurring health conditions.
Provider Factors Likely to Impact Access and Uptake of Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir for Transgender Women in the United States: Results of a Qualitative Study
Authors: Rael Christine Tagliaferri , Das Doyel , Porter Jonathan , Lopez-Ríos Javier , Abascal Elena , Dolezal Curtis , Vaughn Michael P. , Giffenig Pilar , Lopez Jasmine M. , Stonbraker Samantha , Sun Christina , Velasco Roque Anthony , Bitterfeld Leandra , Bockting Walter O. , Bauermeister Jose 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) was US Food and Drug Administration–approved in 2021. However, little is known about providers' CAB-LA knowledge, attitudes, challenges, and prescribing preferences for transgender women patients. Understanding this is critical to developing new pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) interventions tailored to transgender women. We conducted 45-min, in-depth Zoom interviews (IDIs) with United States–based health care providers who prescribe PrEP to transgender women. IDIs focused on providers' CAB-LA knowledge/acceptability, willingness to prescribe CAB-LA to transgender women, potential challenges, and solutions to mitigate challenges. Providers (N = 17) had a mean age of 43 years, and 35.4% (n = 6) identified as people of color. Most (n = 12) had basic knowledge of CAB-LA but wanted additional training. All participants found CAB-LA acceptable and were willing to prescribe. Most (n = 11) anticipated minimal challenges to implementation. Others (n = 4) reported potential issues, including logistical/scheduling concerns that impede CAB-LA integration and staffing concerns. Many providers expressed support for self-injection (n = 13) and injections at “drop-in” clinics (n = 8) to overcome challenges.
Ethics of abortion in transplantation
Authors: Ramos Hector C. , Hill Allison 
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review
The controversial medical procedure of abortion is the subject of this article. It argues that for transplant patients, including recipients, abortion is ethical.

Recent findings
In June 2022, the United States Supreme Court overturned the long-standing decision of Roe v. Wade. This decision has led to a socio-legal environment where obtaining an abortion is impossible for some patients. However, the moral position relating to patients who have undergone transplants or are on a waiting list has been largely overlooked. End-stage renal, liver, and heart disease presents a hazardous situation for pregnancy, posing risks to both the fetus and the pregnant person. The abortion procedure is medically safer and allows a patient to proceed with a transplant. Limiting access to abortion or preventing it altogether will have a significant negative impact on transplant patients. The ethical analysis of abortion can be likened to compelling a relative or loved one of a transplant recipient to donate an organ to their family member or loved one.

Summary
This article emphasizes the importance of maintaining the legal availability of abortion for transplant patients. Allowing abortions in transplant patients upholds ethical parity, as seen in the analogous situation of live organ donation.
Assessment of the occurrence of apical periodontitis and endodontically treated/non-treated teeth in a Lower Austrian patient population treated for osteoporosis: a cohort study
Authors: Grün Pascal , Meier Marius , Dittrich Johannes , Gjergjindreaj Arb , Ströbele Dragan , Pfaffeneder-Mantai Florian , Hatamikia Sepideh , Geibel Margrit-Ann , Turhani Dritan 
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Osteoporosis (OP) is a bone disease linked to low bone mass and heightened fracture risk. Apical periodontitis (AP) is an inflammation of the apical periodontium, visible on radiographs, often associated with infection or necrosis of the root canal system. Both conditions, AP and OP, share inflammation and ageing as common factors, warranting exploration of their potential interactions. This study examined the association between AP and endodontically treated/non-treated teeth in patients with OP in Lower Austria.

Methods:
The authors included 425 patients (7924 examined teeth) aged over 60 years (average age 68±10 years) with 208 patients (3537 examined teeth) [179 women (3027 teeth) and 29 men (510 teeth)] initially diagnosed and treated for OP and a corresponding control group with 217 patients (4387 examined teeth) [187 women (3781 teeth) and 30 men (606 teeth)] without an OP diagnosis. For the diagnosis of AP, the panoramic radiographs and medical history taken at the initial presentation were analysed.

Results:
In patients treated for OP, AP was diagnosed as follows: in 134 (26%) treated and 234 (9%) non-treated teeth among women (511 treated/2516 non-treated teeth) and in 23 (27%) treated and 50 (11%) non-treated teeth among men (83 treated/427 non-treated teeth). The control group without OP consisted of: women (569 treated/ 3212 non-treated teeth) in 147 (25%) treated and 403 (12%) non-treated teeth; men (77 treated/ 529 non-treated teeth) 17 (22%) treated and 29 (6%) non-treated teeth.
When comparing AP in endodontically treated teeth according to sex, no statistically significant differences were observed between patients with and without OP (P>0.05). The same result was observed in endodontically non-treated teeth (P>0.05).

Conclusion:
The authors’ results indicate that there is no association between the occurrence of AP and endodontically or non-endodontically treated teeth in female and male patients treated for OP.
Combined ethanol and radiofrequency ablation for the elimination of focal atrial tachycardia originating from the Marshall bundle
Authors: Volkov Dmytro , Karpenko Yurii , Sidhu Alamjeet Kaur , Skoryi Dmytro , Batsak Bogdan , Akobirov Yevhen Sadatshovych , Shustytsky Roman Volodymyrovych , Kravchenko Tetiana 
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:
Atrial tachycardias (AT) originating from the Marshall bundle (MB) are rare and present significant challenges in diagnosis and management. The authors present the case of a 29-year-old male with recurrent AT successfully treated with a combined ethanol and radiofrequency ablation approach. This case highlights the effectiveness of this dual ablation strategy in resolving AT originating from the MB, contributing valuable insights into managing complex AT cases.

Case presentation:
A 29-year-old male with recurrent, symptomatic palpitations was initially suspected of orthodromic atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia, but an initial electrophysiological study (EPS) failed to induce arrhythmia. Subsequent spontaneous episodes led to a detailed EPS, revealing automatic AT originating presumably from an epicardial focus on the posterior wall of the left atrium (LA). Detailed mapping identified the earliest activation at the vein of Marshall (VoM) ostium within the coronary sinus (CS). Suspecting the involvement of MB structures, VoM ethanol ablation was performed. Complete arrhythmia elimination was achieved with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) at the VoM ostium within the CS, with no recurrence.

Discussion:
Most cases in the literature are associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) or AT within AF, typically involving re-entry mechanisms. The given case is unique as it presents a highly probable VoM origin of automatic AT with no concomitant AF. The VoM’s anatomical and electrophysiological properties make it a potential source of refractory AT. In this case, ethanol ablation supplemented by targeted, limited RFA emerged as an effective strategy, highlighting the importance of comprehensive mapping and tailored ablation approaches in managing complex atrial arrhythmias.

Conclusion:
The potential implications for clinical practice include recognizing the VoM as a critical target in refractory AT cases and adopting a combined ablation strategy to improve patient outcomes in similarly challenging scenarios.