bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A chronological history of heart valve prostheses to offer perspectives of their limitations
Authors: Evangelista Raquel Ahnert Aguiar , Pires Ana Luiza Resende , Nogueira Breno Valentim 
Published: February 2025

Prosthetic heart valves (PHV) have been studied for around 70 years. They are the best alternative to save the life of patients with cardiac valve diseases. However, current PHVs may still cause significant disadvantages to patients. In general, native heart valves show complex structures and reproducing their functions challenges scientists. Valve repair and replacement are the options to heal heart valve diseases (VHDs), such as stenosis and regurgitation, which show high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Valve repair contributes to the performance of cardiac cycles. However, it fails to restore valve anatomy to its normal condition. On the other hand, replacement is the only alternative to treat valve degeneration. It may do so by mechanical or bioprosthetic valves. Although prostheses may restructure patients’ cardiac cycle, both prostheses may show limitations and potential disadvantages, such as mechanical valves causing thrombogenicity or bioprosthetic valves, calcification. Thus, prostheses require constant improvements to remedy these limitations. Although the design of mechanical valve structures has improved, their raw materials cause great disadvantages, and alternatives for this problem remain scarce. Cardiac valve tissue engineering emerged 30 years ago and has improved over time, e.g., xenografts and fabricated heart valves serving as scaffolds for cell seeding. Thus, this review describes cardiac valve substitutes, starting with the history of valvular prosthesis transplants and ending with some perspectives to alleviate the limitations of artificial valves.
Specific gut microbiota and serum metabolite changes in patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Wendong , Liu Xincheng , Nan Hao , Li Huan , Yan Litao 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionRecent research indicated a strong link between the gut microbiota and osteoarthritis. However, the complex interplay between the gut microbiota, serum metabolites, and the progression of osteoarthritis in affected individuals remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of the gut microbiota and serum metabolites in patients with osteoarthritis.MethodsParticipants with either healthy knees or osteoarthritis were enrolled and categorized into healthy control (HC) and osteoarthritis (OA) groups. Fecal and blood samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metabolomic analysis via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and integrated evaluation.ResultsThe results showed no significant variation in gut microbiota richness and diversity between the two groups. However, the abundance of Bacteroides plebeius and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii was reduced in the OA group, both of which are known for their potential as next-generation probiotics for human health. Metabolomic analysis indicated that serum metabolites, including pyrogallol and 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB), were significantly lower in the OA group. These metabolites are known to positively impact osteoarthritis progression and other diseases and demonstrated good diagnostic performance for distinguishing osteoarthritis patients from healthy controls. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between Bacteroides plebeius and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and between pyrogallol and 3HB.DiscussionThis study highlighted specific gut microbiota and serum metabolite profiles in osteoarthritis patients, suggesting that the specific changes in bacteria and derived metabolites are closely tied to osteoarthritis progression. This underscores the potential of gut microbiota and serum metabolites as modifiable elements and therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis prevention.
Enhanced invasion and survival of antibiotic- resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae pathotypes in host cells and strain-specific replication in blood
Authors: Klaper Kathleen , Pfeifer Yvonne , Heinrich Lena , Prax Marcel , Krut Oleg , Bekeredjian-Ding Isabelle , Wahl Anika , Fischer Martin A. , Kaspar Heike , Borgmann Stefan , Gerlach Roman G. , Werner Guido 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundKlebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most important opportunistic pathogens causing healthcare-associated and community-acquired infections worldwide. In recent years, the increase in antibiotic resistance and infections caused by hypervirulent K. pneumoniae poses great public health concerns. In this study, host-pathogen interactions of different K. pneumoniae strains of human and animal origins were analyzed in microbiological, cell-biological and immunological experiments.MethodsIn vitro infection experiments using representatives of different K. pneumoniae pathotypes and various epithelial and macrophage cell lines were executed analyzing adhesion, invasion and intracellular replication. Experimental conditions involved normoxia and hypoxia. Furthermore, survival and growth of further K. pneumoniae isolates expressing defined siderophores in blood (platelet concentrates, serum) was investigated. All experiments were done in triplicate and statistically significant differences were determined.ResultsSignificant differences in adhesion and invasion capability, phagocytosis resistance and intracellular replication were measured between different K. pneumoniae pathotypes. Especially, ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates demonstrated increased invasion in host cell lines and survival in macrophages. A strong cytotoxic effect on intestinal cells was observed for hypervirulent K. pneumoniae. The results from our investigations of the growth behavior of K. pneumoniae in platelets and serum showed that siderophores and/or an enlarged capsule are not essential factors for the proliferation of (hypervirulent) K. pneumoniae strains in blood components.ConclusionOur in vitro experiments revealed new insights into the host-pathogen interactions of K. pneumoniae strains representing different pathovars and clonal lineages in different infectious contexts and hosts. While a clear limitation of our study is the limited strain set used for both infection and as potential host, the results are a further step for a better understanding of the pathogenicity of K. pneumoniae and its properties essential for different stages of colonization and infection. When developed further, these results may offer novel approaches for future therapeutics including novel “anti-virulence strategies”.
Global burden of reported lower respiratory system fungal infection
Authors: Wang Zheng , Pan Mengshu , Zhu Jie 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundThe epidemiological trend of lower respiratory tract fungal infections remains unclear. This study aims to quantify the global burden of these infections from 1990 to 2021 using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.MethodsData were analyzed at global, regional, and national levels, considering factors such as age, gender, region, and socio-demographic index (SDI). Key indicators included age-standardized disability-adjusted life-year (ASDR) and age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR).ResultsOn a global scale, the burden of lower respiratory fungal infections decreased significantly from 1990 to 2021, with a decline in mortality rates. Regionally, substantial disparities were observed among the 21 geographic super-regions. Nationally, Argentina experienced the greatest increase in ASDR and ASMR, while Finland showed the largest decrease, with average annual percentage changes (AAPC) below -5 for both indicators. Sex-based analysis revealed a notably higher burden in males compared to females. ASDR and ASMR were negatively correlated with SDI in most regions.ConclusionAlthough the global burden of lower respiratory tract fungal infections has decreased, it remains a substantial public health issue, particularly in low-SDI regions. There is an urgent need to implement targeted preventive measures to address this ongoing challenge.
Unveiling the threat of crystalline silica on the cardiovascular system. A comprehensive review of the current knowledge
Authors: Gurzu Irina Luciana , Handra Claudia Mariana , Ghita Isabel , Otelea Marina Ruxandra 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThis paper aims to expose the link between occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica (SiO2) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).MethodsA comprehensive review of the literature was conducted, focusing on epidemiological studies that assessed the association between silicosis or SiO2 exposure and CVDs. Specific cardiovascular diseases, such as acute myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension and pericarditis, were also pointed. Biomarkers commonly used in both silicosis and cardiovascular diseases were reviewed to underline the common pathological pathways.ResultsPublished epidemiological data revealed a higher risk of ischemic heart disease, stroke, and hypertension in silica-exposed workers, even at low exposure levels. SiO2 exposure was linked to an increased risk of myocardial infarction, with potential mechanisms involving inflammation and platelet activation. Elevated risk of arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, correlated with occupational silica exposure. Consistent with the pathological mechanisms supporting the SiO2 exposure—CVDs relationship, biomarkers related to NLP3 inflammasome activation, reflecting oxidative stress, and revealing fibrosis have been presented.ConclusionActual data support the relationship between occupational SiO2 exposure and various CVDs promoting cardiovascular monitoring in silica-exposed workers. Further studies are needed to identify specific/distinctive biomarkers to improve early detection of CVDs in silica exposed workers.
The relationship between the 3D electroanatomical mapping parameters of the left atrial posterior wall and the recurrence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chen Yuqiao , Zhuang Jun , Li Xiaolong , Zhang Chunqin , Cao Xinfu , Xu Zhiwei , Feng Xiu 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundPulmonary vein isolation (PVI) remains the cornerstone of catheter ablation in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). However, the recurrence of AF after PVI needs further investigation. The left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) is embryologically related to the pulmonary vein and plays an important role in the initiation and maintenance of AF. This study aims to explore the relationship between the 3D electroanatomical mapping parameters of the LAPW and recurrence in patients with PAF.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with PAF who underwent PVI. Both clinical and procedural characteristics from the enrolled subjects were collected before PVI. 3D electroanatomical mapping anatomical and electrical parameters were measured and calculated in the CARTO system. Intergroup comparisons and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to demonstrate the relationship between the parameters of LAPW and AF recurrence. A combined prediction model for AF recurrence was constructed in this study.ResultsA total of 120 patients were included in the final analysis. Among procedural characteristics, compared with Group 1 (no recurrence), there was a significantly larger posterior wall surface area (PWSA) (p = 0.013) and a percentage of very low-voltage area (PVLVA) (p &lt; 0.001) in Group 2 (recurrence). Further analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the distribution of VLVA (p = 0.026). Subsequently, in a multivariate logistic regression analysis, both PWSA and PVLVA were found to be independent risk factors for AF recurrence [odds ratio (OR): 1.457, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.037–2.049, p = 0.030; OR: 1.059, 95% CI: 1.013–1.107, p = 0.012, respectively]. Finally, a prediction model that combined the PWSA with the PVLVA for AF recurrence was constructed to draw the receiver operating characteristic curve. The area under the curve of this model was 0.900 (0.827–0.973) (p &lt; 0.001). The result, evaluated by using the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, showed that χ2 = 4.643 (p = 0.796).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that both PWSA and PVLVA were independent risk factors for AF recurrence. Moreover, we proposed a model that combined the PWSA with the PVLVA to predict the recurrence of AF, which may provide an approach for screening patients with PAF who may require attention for the LAPW.
The mediating influence of self-efficacy and self-regulation in the relationship between perfectionism and listening anxiety
Authors: Movafagh Ardestani Elham , Barjesteh Hamed , Dehqan Mahmood 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThis study investigates the complex relationship between perfectionism and Listening Anxiety (LA) in the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL), with a focus on the mediating roles of Listening Self-Efficacy (LS) and Self-Regulated Learning (SRL).MethodA sample of 350 EFL learners from various language institutes in Iran was selected through cluster random sampling and completed four validated questionnaires measuring SRL, LS, perfectionism, and LA. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the data and provide detailed insights into the interrelationships among these variables.ResultsThe results revealed significant linear relationships between the variables under study. Specifically, LS, perfectionism, and SRL were found to directly influence LA, with LS and SRL serving as stronger predictors of LA than perfectionism. In terms of predictive power, SRL ranked just behind LS.DiscussionBoth SRL and LS were significant mediators in the relationship between perfectionism and LA, suggesting that learners’ self-regulation and listening self-efficacy play key roles in how perfectionism affects LA. The findings have important implications for EFL instruction: by prioritizing LS and SRL, educators can create a more supportive, enjoyable, and effective learning environment for EFL students, ultimately reducing LA.
Cu/Co meta-interconnects for 112 Gbps high speed applications
Authors: Kim Hae-in , Wilcher Alexander , Bowrothu Renuka , Yoon Yong-Kyu 
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an innovative interconnect approach called “meta-interconnect,” which utilizes a combination of copper (Cu) and cobalt (Co) metaconductor (Cu/Co-MC) to enhance signal integrity in the millimeter-wave (mm-wave) spectrum. The primary objective is to demonstrate reduced conductor losses from the skin effect compared to Cu at the 112 Gbps Nyquist frequency of 28 GHz. For the first time, a comprehensive parametric analysis is conducted using both simulation and experimentation methods to suppress the skin effect with Cu/Co-MC. Based on the optimization of Cu/Co-MC-based coplanar waveguide (CPW) transmission lines, a minimum insertion loss of only 0.08 dB/mm at 28 GHz, which is 0.06 dB/mm less than that of the Cu counterpart, has been demonstrated, which represents a 42.86% reduction in conductor power losses. Additionally, Cu/Co-MC-based CPWs meet the sub-0.1 dB/mm channel loss target. The study verifies the impact that the thickness and number of Cu/Co-MC layers have on device performances. This provides valuable insights into the optimizing MC configurations, which in this study are 250 nm thick Cu and 40 nm thick Co. Cu/Co-MC pairs with optimized layers and total thicknesses demonstrate significant improvements in insertion loss and thermal noise. These findings highlight the potential benefits of the Cu/Co-MC-based meta-interconnect technology for data center high-speed serial bus applications, offering a promising solution for achieving high signal integrity in the mm-wave spectrum, contributing to the overall understanding and its MCs translation to commercial applications.
Association between LDL/HDL ratio and hypertension in Chinese middle-aged and older adults: a cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis based on CHARLS LDL/HDL ration and hypertension
Authors: Lai Weicheng , Chen Xiao , Wang Lerui , Wu Liangxiu , Li Xin , Zhou Boda 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionHypertension is a global public health issue and major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Low-density lipoprotein/high-density lipoprotein ratio (LDL/HDL Ratio, LHR) is an important indicator of lipid metabolism related to CVD. However, the relationship between LHR and the prevalence and incidence of hypertension has not been reported in large populations. This study aims to investigate the association between LHR and hypertension in middle-aged and elderly population.MethodsThis study utilized the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) database from 2011 to 2020. Cross-sectional study was employed to analyze the association between LHR and the prevalence of hypertension; longitudinal analysis was used to examine the association between LHR and the incidence of hypertension. Eligible participants were adults aged 45 years and older with complete LHR and self-reported hypertension records. Multivariate logistic regression, smooth curve fitting, threshold effect analysis was performed.ResultsIn the cross-sectional study, we included 13,150 participants. After adjusting for potential confounders, each one-unit increase in LHR was associated with a 22% increase in the prevalence of hypertension (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.15-1.30, P &lt; 0.0001). The association between LHR and hypertension was consistent across different subgroups, with higher LHR being more strongly associated with increased hypertension prevalence in females and non-smokers. Our results revealed a linear relationship between LHR and hypertension prevalence. Longitudinal analysis showed that, among participants without hypertension in 2011, after 7 years of follow-up, the association between LHR and hypertension incidence remained robust after adjusting for a wide range of demographic, clinical, and biochemical variables (P &lt; 0.05).ConclusionsThese results demonstrated significant positive association between LHR and the prevalence &amp; incidence of hypertension, in a nationwide representative middle-aged and elderly population in China.
Adults with Phenylketonuria have suboptimal bone mineral density apart from vitamin D and calcium sufficiency
Authors: Hanusch Beatrice , Schlegtendal Anne , Grasemann Corinna , Lücke Thomas , Sinningen Kathrin 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionImprovement of early diagnosis and treatment in patients with Phenylketonuria (PKU) allowed for healthy survival into adulthood of these patients, but non-neurological health impairments of unknown etiology emerged. One of these is impaired bone health that manifests in adolescence and adulthood, potentially depending not only on treatment adherence but also on additional lifestyle factors and nutrition.MethodsEighteen adults with PKU (18.3–51.6 years, ♀ n = 11) and 19 age- and gender-matched controls (18.3–54.9 years, ♀ n = 10) participated in the study. Bone metabolism–related parameters (BMRPs) in plasma, serum, and urine were analyzed. Dietary habits and lifestyle factors were obtained from questionnaires; a 6-min walk test and a dual X-ray absorptiometry measurement at two sites were performed. Phenylalanine (Phe) serum concentrations from the 5 years prior to study participation were collected from the patients’ charts.ResultsPatients had reduced bone mineral density (BMD) T-score in hips (−0.67 ± 1.05) and lumbar spine (−0.71 ± 1.11, both p = 0.018). Most BMRPs in plasma, serum, and urine, as well as markers of oxidative stress did not differ from healthy controls. Whereas 89% of adults with PKU were vitamin D–sufficient, only 68% of controls reached vitamin D sufficiency. 25-Hydroxy vitamin D concentration was significantly higher in adults with PKU than that in controls [33.1 ng/mL (26.2–40.3) vs. 23.4 ng/mL (17.2–24.9); p &lt; 0.001], whereas parathyroid hormone concentrations showed no difference [PKU: 27.6 pg/mL (19.6–42.8) vs. Co: 36.1 pg/mL (29.2–40.8); p = 0.089]. Neither Phe blood concentration nor dietary habits or lifestyle factors were associated with BMD in regression analysis.ConclusionNeither dietary habits nor lifestyle factors showed an association with BMD in this group of adults with PKU, whereas BMD was reduced.
Interactions with and activation of immune cells by CD41a+ extracellular vesicles
Authors: Tamagne Marie , Khelfa Mehdi , Many Souganya , Neyrinck-Leglantier Deborah , Delorme Adèle Silane , Pinheiro Marion Klea , Andrieu Muriel , Cleophax Sabine , Pirenne France , Vingert Benoît 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe immunological profiles of CD4+ T lymphocytes (TLs) from patients with hematological malignancies differ between patients who have and have not received transfusions. There may be several reasons for these differences, including the presence of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from plasma membrane budding and present in the platelet concentrates. Indeed, EVs can modulate the immune system through interactions with many immune cells, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood.MethodsWe therefore investigated how interactions with CD41a+ EVs cause immune cells to change phenotype and function. CD41a+ EVs were cultured with TLs, B lymphocytes, and monocytes. Given the potential involvement of monocytes in leukemia progression, we performed a new original multi-omics study to confirm the protein changes and gene activation observed following interaction with CD41a+ EVsResultsThe CD41a+ EVs had immunomodulatory effects on all these cell types but this effect depended on the numbers of EVs. CD4+ TLs required large numbers of CD41a+ EVs for activation, whereas monocytes were the most sensitive. With the new multi-omics technique, we confirmed the direct effects of CD41a+ EVs on protein phenotype and gene activation.ConclusionTransfusion EVs should be considered during the immunological follow-up of patients after transfusion to detect immunological effects on malignant hemopathies, and during the development of new immunotherapies.