bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of early endothelial function improvement on subclinical target organ damage in hypertensives
Authors: Huang Xiaodong , Huang Xianwei , Pan Mandong , Lin Jiyan , Xie Liangdi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is acknowledged as a marker for subclinical target organ damage (STOD) in hypertension, though its therapeutic potential has not yet been clarified. This study assessed whether early endothelial function improvement (EEFI) reduced STOD in patients with essential hypertension (EH). We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 503 EH patients initially free from STOD. Endothelial function was assessed using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), with values ≤ 7.1% indicating dysfunction. Patients were initially categorized by endothelial status (dysfunction: n = 192, normal: n = 311), and further divided into improved or unimproved groups based on changes within three months post-enrollment. During a median follow-up of 25 months, 195 patients developed STOD. The incidence of STOD was significantly higher in patients initially dysfunctional compared to those with normal function. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the improved group had a lower cumulative incidence of STOD compared to the unimproved group (p < 0.05). Multivariable Cox regression confirmed EEFI (HR = 0.56, 95%CI 0.36–0.87) as an independent protective factor against STOD in EH patients, particularly in males, overweight individuals, and non-diabetics. In conclusion, EEFI significantly reduces STOD incidence in EH patients initially exhibiting endothelial dysfunction, especially in specific subgroups, emphasizing the need for early intervention in endothelial function to prevent STOD.
Cuffless Wearable Sphygmomanometers using Dual Digital Optical Frequency Combs in Chalcogenide Chips
Authors: Zhang Xuming , Zhong Ruifeng , Pan Jingshun , Li Qiang , Li Luya , Xu Yi , Fu Zhihao , Yang Shuixian , YU Changyuan , Lu Chao , Li Zhaohui 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Sphygmomanometers often inflate a rubber cuff wrapped around the upper arm to measure blood pressure. However, the cuff is uncomfortable and inconvenient, making it highly desirable to develop cuffless sphygmomanometers for continuous monitoring of blood pressure in emergencies and healthcare. Electrical and optical blood pressure sensors provide high sensitivity but often suffer from limited pressure range, temperature drift, slow response and poor wearability. To address the aforementioned limitations, we design and demonstrate a unique cuffless wearable blood pressure sensor (dimensions of 12 mm x 2 mm x 0.5 mm) equipped with two original components: a GeSbS/AsS chalcogenide dual-microring chip as the pressure sensing unit for high sensitivity and wide pressure range, and a dual digital optical frequency comb (DDOFC) system as the detection unit for fast response and low-cost detection. Our sensor is comparable to reported electrical and optical blood pressure sensors in its detection limit (23 Pa) but has a 10-times faster response rate (2 kHz), a 1,000-times longer stable operation (> 4.3x10^7 cycles) and a well-compensated temperature drift (< 0.012 pm/°C) that eliminates the need for temperature control. Our work holds great promise for wearable electronics, mobile healthcare, and human-computer interactions. Moreover, its 2-kHz fast response would enable the capture of previously inaccessible transient details of cardiovascular conditions for critical applications such as in-surgery blood pressure monitoring, orthostatic hypotension studies and unexplored early detection of potential myocardial ischemia and strokes.
In vitro conservation of Agave sisalana germplasm under slow growth conditions
Authors: Tavares Priscila Fonseca , Nepomuceno Cristina Ferreira , Costa Maria Angelica P. de Carrvalho , Wyzykowski Jair , Soares Ana Cristina Fermino 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The increasing demand for natural hard fibers has stimulated sisal (Agave sisalana) fiber production and exportation. Plant germplasm conservation is essential to preserve their genetic diversity and it is a vital tool for plant selection, breeding, and in vitro propagation. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of the osmotic regulator’s mannitol and sorbitol, as well as the growth regulator paclobutrazol on A. sisalana in vitro morphological responses and to develop in vitro conservation protocols for this species. The in vitro conservation of A. sisalana was evaluated with two experiments: I – with sorbitol and mannitol, at concentrations of 0; 87; 174 and 261 mM, and with 87 mM sucrose, corresponding to the osmotic potentials of -0.217; -0.437; -0.655 and -0.873 MPa, and II – with paclobutrazol (PBZ) at concentrations of 0; 3; 6; 9; 12 and 15 μM. Mannitol at 261 mM (-0.873 MPa) promoted the slowest growth of sisal plants in vitro, with growth reduction of 288.6%, when compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, this treatment did not affect the percentage of plant regeneration and multiplication after 12 months of cultivation. Paclobutrazol at 15 µM promoted a reduction of 93.5% in plant height, when compared to the control, and did not restrict plant regeneration and multiplication percentage. Mannitol and paclobutrazol can be used with efficiency for in vitro conservation, maintaining explant viability and plant survival after acclimatization. In addition, these treatments did not cause phenotypic variations of genetic origin. This is the first study reporting strategies for in vitro germplasm conservation of A. sisalana.
Infiltrating B-cell subtypes and associated hub genes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma identified from integrated RNA sequencing data and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Zhong Fangyan , Chen Junjun , Lu Tianzhu , Zhang Lin , Liu Zhiliang , Guan Chunhong , Xiong Xiaopeng , Gong Xiaochang , Li Jingao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is associated with lymphocyte infiltration; however, the majority of research on NPC has focused on the role of T cells, with relatively little known about the roles of B cells and their subtypes. Therefore, we evaluated the prognostic value of CD20 + B cell density and B-cell subtypes along with their functional enrichment and hub genes in NPC.
Methods
The prognostic value of CD20 + B-cell density for distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) was explored by immunohistochemistry using multivariate analysis. Transcriptomic expression data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets were analyzed to identify B-cell subtypes and their functional enrichment in NPC tissues. Pseudotime trajectory analysis was performed to evaluate the B-cell differentiation trajectory and hub genes were identified using Cytoscape software.
Results
Patients with NPC exhibiting a high infiltrating density of CD20+ B cells showed significantly better 5-year DMFS, OS, and PFS compared to those of patients with a low infiltrating density. Naïve B cells, switched memory B cells, exhausted B cells, and plasma cells were identified as key B-cell subtypes infiltrating NPC tumors, with naïve B cells showing the highest infiltration levels associated with a better prognosis. Naïve B cells were closely associated with immune pathways and the hub genes were typical markers for T and B cells.
Conclusion
A high infiltrating density of B cells showed strong prognostic value in patients with NPC. Naïve B cells may play an important role in tumor immunity for NPC.
Causal Effects of Genetically Determined Lipidome on Lung Cancer and Its Subtypes: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Luo Cong , Mi Jie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Previous observational studies have identified abnormalities in lipid metabolism among lung cancer patients, but the causal relationship between lipidomes and lung cancer risk remains unclear. Herein, we investigate the causal effect of lipidomes on the incidence of lung cancer and its subtypes through two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Methods
A genome-wide association study of 179 lipid metabolites was used as the exposure, while lung cancer and its subtypes were the outcomes. All the datasets were obtained from an open database. The inverse variance weighted method was used as the primary analysis, and MR-Egger regression, the weighted median method, and the weighted mode method were employed to test the robustness of the results. MR-Egger intercept and Cochran's Q statistical analysis were used to assess potential pleiotropy and heterogeneity. Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was also used to test the stability of the findings.
Results
Forty-two significant lipids were identified as causative exposures for lung cancer. Seventeen lipids affected lung cancer risk in smokers, while only four affected non-smokers. There were two overlapping lipids among the three pathological types of lung cancer. Phosphatidylcholine (O-16:1_18:0) had protective effects on small cell lung cancer (odds ratio (OR) = 0.828, P = 0.038) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) (OR = 0.859, P = 0.005). Phosphatidylethanolamine (18:0_18:2) also exhibited protective effects on lung adenocarcinoma (OR = 0.943, P = 0.038) and LUSC (OR = 0.912, P = 0.003). Our results were robust even without a single SNP due to a "leave-one-out" analysis. The MR Egger intercept test indicated that genetic pleiotropy had no effect on the results. No heterogeneity was detected by Cochran's Q test.
Conclusion
This study unveiled the causal effect of specific lipid species on lung cancer and its subtypes. Smoking patients are more susceptible to abnormal lipid metabolism and are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Different lipid species are closely associated with various pathological types of lung cancer. Our study suggests that lipids may be utilized in the early screening, prevention, and treatment of lung cancer.
Experimental study on the evolution of three-dimensional fracture structure and enhanced permeability of bituminous coal under high and low temperature conditions
Authors: Qiao Yonggang , Wang Yuqiang , Fan Nan , Yuan Danping , Zuo Wenzhe , Lyu Xingyu , Zhao Jindian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

A systematic study of the three-dimensional reconstructed coal microstructure under low-temperature liquid nitrogen shock and cryogenic-heat shock combined with high-temperature convective heating is of great significance for the improvement of permeability of coal seams by low-temperature media. By combining CT scanning experiments with three-dimensional reconstruction techniques, the pore and fracture structures, their spatial distribution, and connectivity within the coal matrix under single-cryogenic (SC) and cryogenic-heat (CH) treatment conditions were investigated. A pore network model of connection fractures with statistical pore radius, throat radius, and coordination number distribution was constructed, based on the "Volume Fraction module" in Avizo. Finally, the effect was verified by a permeability analyzer. Experimental results indicate that SC treated coal surfaces exhibit partially connected, axially developed fractures. And Coal sample that was subjected to CH treatment showed greater fracture apertures. Significant changes in the fracture volume distribution after different treatments were found by statistical analysis. Specifically, the fraction of fracture volume in CH treated samples between 1010-1011 µm3 decreased from 51.5–5.6%, while the segment from 1011-1012 µm3 jumped from 0–85.47%. Additionally, under different treatment conditions, the overall trend of the number of pores and throats increased and then decreased as the pore radius and throat radius increased, and this trend is more pronounced in coal samples treated with CH. The permeability of gas is largely constrained by the degree of expansion of internal fissures within rocks, the permeability of coal samples decreases with the increase of confining pressure.
Lymphatic Vessel Ligation: A Novel Murine Model for Inhibiting Corneal Transplantation Rejection
Authors: Igarashi Ami , Hayashi Takahiko , Shimizu Toshiki , Yuda Kentaro , Yamagami Satoru 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The lymphatic system is a crucial contributor to allograft rejection after corneal transplantation. However, no surgical procedures for the central pathway where conjunctival lymphatic vessels converge have been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to establish a murine model of lymphatic vessel ligation and evaluate its inhibitory effect on corneal allograft rejection. A tracer was used to visualise lymphatic vessels, and complications were evaluated. A surgical technique was developed to block the lymphatic vessels. Corneas from C57BL/6 mice were transplanted into BALB/c mice divided into two groups—one with and one without lymphatic vessel ligation, to evaluate their effects on allograft rejection. Graft opacity scores were evaluated for 8 weeks, and immunohistochemistry was used to quantify angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Twenty percent trypan blue used as a tracer showed clear inflow with no complications. The two sutures and cyanoacrylate glue combination demonstrated a blocking effect after 25 days and was thus used for lymphatic ligation. Three and nine out of fourteen eyes showed rejection at 8 weeks post-surgery in the lymphatic vessel ligation and allograft groups, respectively. Furthermore, neovascularisation and lymphangiogenesis significantly decreased in the lymphatic vessel ligation group. Overall, we present a novel therapeutic strategy for corneal transplantation.
Change Characteristics of Water Vapor Budget in the Hengduan Mountains from 1979 to 2022
Authors: FANG Yun , WANG Jinning , QIU Qingdong , ZHANG Yujun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Using NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis(NCEP2) data from 1979 to 2022, change characteristics of water vapor budget in the Hengduan Mountains of China in summer and winter were studied. The results showed that in winter and summer, the Hengduan Mountains area is the most abundant area of water vapor in the Tibet Plateau, and the water vapor in the Hengduan Mountains is mainly from Bengal Bay. In summer, water vapor diverge in the northeast part of the Hengduan Mountains while converge in the southwest part of the Hengduan Mountains; in winter, both convergence and divergence of water vapor are weak in the Hengduan Mountains area. The Hengduan Mountains gain water vapor in summer, and lose it in winter. Meanwhile, water vapor budget in Hengduan Mountains area has multiple-time scales characteristic: 4-a oscillation is the most obvious in the summer while 2-a and 6-a oscillation is obvious in the winter.
Biallelic loss-of-function variations in BTD cause profound biotinidase deficiency in an Indian patient
Authors: Kannan Balachander , Jayaseelan Vijayashree Priyadharsini , Arumugam Paramasivam , Navamani Hephzibah Kirubamani , DV Lal 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background Biotinidase deficiency (BD) is a rare, autosomal recessive metabolic disorder characterized by neurocutaneous symptoms. This study investigates a case of profound BD in an Indian patient and the underlying genetic basis. Methods A 10-month-old male presenting with seizures, hypotonia, ataxia, visual impairments, and developmental delay underwent biochemical and genetic analysis. Biotinidase activity was measured using an ELISA kit. Sanger sequencing of theBTDgene was performed to identify mutations.In silicoanalysis was employed to assess the potential impact of the identified variants. Results The patient exhibited profound biotinidase deficiency. Biallelic loss-of-function variations (c.903G > A and c.946C > T) in theBTDgene were identified, leading to premature stop codons and truncated, non-functional protein fragments.In silicoanalysis supported the functional significance of these variations, demonstrating their location within a critical domain essential for enzyme activity. Conclusion This case expands our knowledge of BD genetic diversity and underscores the critical role of early diagnosis and newborn screening programs in managing this treatable condition.
The effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on post-stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Abbasi Hamid , Abedi Rana Sadat , Tajer Kiarash , Farhoudi Mehdi , Jourabchi-Ghadim Neda 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Stroke, a major contributor to enduring disability on a global scale, demands inventive strategies for improving recuperation and alleviating concomitant neurological deficits. Several studies demonstrated improving effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on post-stroke patients. This study provided systematic review and meta-analysis of current literature concerning the potential impacts of ALA supplementation in individuals recovering from strokes.
Methods: Relevant studies were searched in the international databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, up August 2023. The pooled results were calculated with the use of a random-effects model to assess the effects of ALA on post-stroke patients.
Results: The results revealed that the ALA supplementation was effective on fast plasma glucose levels (SMD= -1.57 mg/dl; 95% CI: -2.60, -0.54; P<0.001), high density lipoprotein levels (SMD= -5.04 mg/dl; 95% CI: -6.12, -3.97; P<0.001) and super oxide dismutase (SMD= 0.63 U/ml; 95% CI: 0.27, 1.00; P<0.05).
Conclusion: The findings of the current systematic review and meta-analysis reveal the advantageous effects of ALA on individuals recovering from a stroke.
Analysis of post-market adverse events of ivabradine: a real-world study base on FAERS database
Authors: Ye Yonghuo , Lai Yuxing , Lin Yuhao , Wang Xingjian , Wang Shaoli 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a prevalent condition characterized by the heart's inability to effectively pump blood, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Ivabradine, a medication targeting heart rate regulation, has emerged as a valuable therapy for managing CHF symptoms. However, comprehensive real-world data on ivabradine's adverse reactions are lacking. Our study utilized FAERS data and statistical algorithms to identify and characterize ivabradine-related adverse events, providing insights crucial for enhancing medication safety and informing clinical practice.Methods: This study utilized the FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to analyze adverse drug reaction (ADR) reports associated with ivabradine over an eight-year period. Four statistical methodologies, including Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and Empirical Bayes Geometric Mean (EBGM), were employed to assess the association between ivabradine and ADRs. Disproportionality analysis at both the System Organ Class (SOC) and Preferred Terms (PTs) levels was conducted to identify potential safety signals.Results: Analysis of 1,860 ADR reports revealed notable associations between ivabradine and various ADRs across different organ systems. Common AEs included cardiovascular events such as bradycardia and atrial fibrillation, as well as visual disturbances and autonomic dysfunction. The study also highlighted the importance of monitoring off-label use and potential interactions with other medications.Conclusions: This comprehensive pharmacovigilance analysis identified and characterized ADRs associated with ivabradine, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals and regulatory authorities. Despite limitations inherent in spontaneous reporting systems, these findings underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance to ensure the safe use of ivabradine in clinical practice.
Fence line Monitoring of Petroleum Refining Plants in Korea: UV-DOAS Analysis of SO2, NO2, and Benzene Emissions for Comprehensive Management
Authors: Kang Cheonwoong , Kim Dongwoo , Kim Jeonghun , Cho Sunghwan , Yu Jungung , Kang Daeil , Park Poongmo , Jeon Ki-Joon 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Increasing public interest in air pollutants driven by climate change and high concentrations of particulate matter (PM) has highlighted the importance of managing pollutants such as SO2, NO2, and benzene. These compounds are known precursors of secondary PM that affect the climate and human health, with benzene being particularly carcinogenic. Benzene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can persist in the atmosphere for approximately 9.4 days, potentially traveling long distances and contributing to the generation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA) through photochemical reactions, leading to elevated fine dust concentrations. To comprehensively manage emissions, leaks, and point sources, a fence line monitoring study was conducted at petroleum refining industrial complexes in Daesan-eup, Chungcheongnam-do, and Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do in Korea. UV-DOAS technology was used to confirm measurement reliability and monitor emissions. High SO2 concentrations emitted in a specific direction were identified at the Yeosu-si, and further investigation identified the flare stack of a suspected plant as the emission source. Fence line monitoring was effective in identifying and addressing unknown high-concentration emission sources and devising measures to manage fugitive emissions and leaks.
The effect of hydrophilic statins on adiponectin, leptin, visfatin and vaspin levels in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Kaya Hacer Kayhan , Demirtas Berjan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Statins may affect glucose metabolism through adipokines. The aim of this study was to measure the effects of hydrophilic statins on some adipokine levels in diabetic rats. Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: healthy control, untreated diabetic, diabetic treated with pravastatin, and diabetic treated with rosuvastatin. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Thereafter, 20 mg/kg/day doses of either pravastatin or rosuvastatin were administered to the treated diabetic rats for eight weeks. At the end of the experiment, the body weights, the levels of fasting blood glucose, serum insulin and insulin resistance as wel as serum adiponectin, leptin, visfatin and vaspin were measured. Fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance levels were significantly higher, whereas insulin level and the body weight were significantly lower in untreated diabetic group than the control group. Diabetes caused significant decreases in adiponectin, leptin, vaspin levels, but a significant increase in visfatin level. Pravastatin treatment significantly increased the body weight and decreased the fasting blood glucose level, whereas rosuvastatin decreased the body weight and did not have any effect on fasting blood glucose level. Pravastatin caused significant increases in both adiponectin and vaspin levels. However, rosuvastatin did not have any effect on adiponectin level, whereas caused a decrease in vaspin level. Both pravastatin and rosuvastatin treatments decreased the levels of leptin and visfatin.
In conclussion, pravastatin is more effective to improve the fasting blood glucose level and the body weight in diabetes, probably by increasing adiponectin and vaspin levels.