bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oral Finasteride (5 mg and 2 mg) versus Topical Minoxidil 5% in Female Pattern Hair Loss
Authors: El Morsy Eman Hamed , Toto Asmaa Saad Abd , Hassan Eman Mohamed 
Published: January 2025

Background:
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) has a negative psychological and social impact. Lacks of consensus for its treatment as well as inconsistent response to treatment modalities are considered major challenges for physicians.

Objectives:
To assess the safety and efficacy of oral finasteride 5 mg and 2 mg versus topical minoxidil 5% in FPHL both clinically and by trichoscopy.

Patients and Methods:
Forty-five females with FPHL were included in the study for 6-month duration. Fifteen patients in Group A received oral finasteride 5 mg daily, 15 patients in Group B received oral finasteride 2 mg daily, and 15 patients in Group C were treated with topical minoxidil 5% solution. Assessment was done using Sinclair scale, photography, trichoscopy, degree of improvement, and patient satisfaction scale.

Results:
Significant improvement of Sinclair scale, hair density, and yellow dots in each group was noted along the treatment period; however, no further improvement of hair density in Group B after the 3rd month was detected. There was significant higher improvement in the hair density in Group A and C than Group B. The degree of improvement and patient satisfaction were significantly greater in Group A and C than Group B. A negative correlation between degree of improvement and patient’s age was observed in Group B.

Conclusion:
Oral finasteride 5 mg and topical minoxidil 5% gave comparable results in FPHL, yet both provided greater and maintained response than 2 mg finasteride. In addition, low-dose finasteride gave better responses in the younger age group. However, all three treatment options were safe in the treatment of FPHL.
Knowledge and practices of lactational amenorrhea among urban slum-dwelling women in Chandigarh
Authors: Kalia Meenu , Rohilla Ravi , Walia Dinesh Kumar , Goel Naveen Krishan , Vashisht Deepak , Vashisht Pooja , Singh Prabhdeep 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND:
Unmet family planning needs persist globally, especially in developing countries. The lactational amenorrhea method (LAM) offers a natural, cost-effective option for post-partum women, promoting optimal breastfeeding and maternal health while providing effective contraception.

OBJECTIVES:
To assess knowledge, perceptions and beliefs, and practices regarding LAM among reproductive-age women in the urban slums of Chandigarh.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted among 427 women living in the urban slums of Chandigarh with their youngest child aged between 1 and 2 years using a pre-designed and pre-tested interview schedule.

RESULTS:
About 38.6% of the participants had heard about LAM, while only 7% of the participants in the study were aware of its contraceptive effect. More than two-third of the participants (69.8%) considered contraceptive use during lactational amenorrhea safe. The majority (95.1%) did not use any contraception during lactational amenorrhea.

CONCLUSION:
The study revealed insufficient awareness and utilization of LAM among participants, emphasizing the need for improved education and counseling during post-natal care. Training health workers can enhance maternal contraceptive support, promoting both child health and effective contraception.
Assessing the Relationship between Graft–Host Junction Profile and Corneal Astigmatism and Higher-Order Aberrations in Postpenetrating Keratoplasty Eyes
Authors: Mohebi Masoomeh , Masoumi Ahmad , Abdi Parisa , Fakhredin Hanieh , Raeisi Saeed , Ghanbari Hamidreza 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose:
To assess the relationship between graft–host junction (GHJ) profile and corneal astigmatism and higher-order aberrations (HOAs) in postpenetrating keratoplasty (post-PKP) eyes.

Methods:
A retrospective observational cross-sectional study was carried out at the Corneal Department of the Farabi Eye Hospital from April 2019 to March 2020. The objective of the study was to review the clinical records of 32 eyes belonging to 25 patients who had undergone PKP. The classification of the eyes was based on the most frequent alignment pattern observed in the eight GHJ sections using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). The three classifications included the well-apposed junction, mal-apposed junction, and equally apposed junction.

Results:
A total of 256 GHJ sections were analyzed in 32 AS-OCT images, comprising 24 keratoconus and 8 nonkeratoconus eyes. Among them, 10 eyes (31.25%) exhibited well-apposed junctions, 15 eyes (46.8%) had mal-apposed junctions, and 7 eyes (21.8%) displayed equally apposed junctions. The most prevalent type of mal-apposition observed was protrusion, accounting for 67 sections (25.3%). The mal-apposed group displayed a significantly higher mean spherical equivalent (SE) (P = 0.01) and postoperative astigmatism (P < 0.001), whereas there was no significant difference in total HOAs between the mal-apposed group and the other groups (P = 0.58).

Conclusions:
Significant associations were observed between the alignment pattern of GHJ after PKP and both SE and keratometric astigmatism. Conversely, no significant association was found between the alignment pattern of GHJ and HOAs.
Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Damages from Macular Grasping during Vitrectomy Comparing Traditional and Three-Dimensional Microscope: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Caretti Luigi , Guerriero Alberto , Verzola Giacomo , Pillon Giulia , Monterosso Cristina , Daniele Anna Rita 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose:
To analyze the advantages of the new advanced three-dimensional (3D) heads-up microscopy system in vitreoretinal surgery compared to a standard optical microscope, by evaluating postoperative tissue trauma, defined by the extent of swelling of the arcuate nerve fiber layer (SANFL).

Methods:
Sixty-four consecutive eyes affected by macular pucker or macular hole underwent macular peeling using a traditional optical microscope (Leica F40) or a 3D heads-up microscopy system (NGENUITY 3D Visualization System). Infrared, blue autofluorescence imaging, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed preoperatively and 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery. The presence of SANFLs was checked postoperatively on infrared and blue autofluorescence fundus imaging, and the extent of each SANFL was measured on OCT near-infrared fundus images.

Results:
The presence and the extension of SANFLs were comparable in the two groups (P > 0.05), with a regression over time that was similar in the two groups. The change of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in the various sectors also appeared to have a similar trend with no statistically significant differences in the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:
NGENUITY system is comparable in terms of visual and anatomical results, offering perspectives for the integration of new advanced visualization technologies.
Pigmented Paravenous Chorioretinal Atrophy and Mucopolysaccharidosis: A Case Report
Authors: Algouti Zineb , Bezza Houda , Kriet Mohamed , El asri Fouad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose:
To report the atypical case of a patient with mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II) in whom bilateral pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy (PPRCA) was found.

Methods:
An observational case report.

Results:
We present the case of a 31-year-old male patient who presented with decreased visual acuity and in whom fundus examination and multimodal imaging revealed a typical appearance of bilateral symmetrical PPRCA. Our patient also had thick facies with hypertelorism and stubby hands, which prompted an enzyme assay revealing MPS II.

Conclusions:
PPRCA is an uncommon condition with an uncertain origin that continues to be a subject of debate. Our case represents an unusual association that points to a potential genetic origin; however, further studies are needed to understand this condition.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy and Safety of Topical Pilocarpine 1.25% in Presbyopia Treatment
Authors: Singh Mamta , Sinha Bibhuti Prassan , Dutta Siddhartha , Deokar Kunal Khanderao , Mishra Deepak , Goswami Khyati 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose:
To do a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the existing literature on the effectiveness and safety of pilocarpine 1.25% eye drops in presbyopia management.

Methods:
Relevant articles were extracted from the online database using keywords – “pilocarpine and presbyopia”, “AGN-190584 and presbyopia”, and “Vuity and presbyopia”. The primary outcome measure considered was an improvement in distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) and secondary outcome measures were improvement in distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity (DCIVA) and adverse events (AEs). Risk of bias (ROB) assessment was done using the ROB2 tool and R software was used for quantitative analysis.

Results:
The 3 included randomized control trials (RCTs) had a total of 980 participants between 40–55 years of age. They were randomized into 2 groups – 489 in the pilocarpine group and 491 in the vehicle group. In the pilocarpine group, 1.25% of pilocarpine was used either once (in the Gemini 1 and 2 trials) or twice daily (Virgo trial). A significantly higher proportion of patients reported improvement of DCIVA and gain of ≥ 3 lines in binocular DCNVA in the pilocarpine group than the vehicle group (P < 0.01). Headache was the most commonly reported AE (13.49% of participants). Three case reports published on pilocarpine use for presbyopia management have reported vitreomacular traction in 1 and retinal detachment in 5 eyes.

Conclusions:
The available evidence documents significant improvement in near and intermediate vision in presbyopia participants with pilocarpine 1.25% drop. However, more RCTs, involving a wider age group, larger refractive error, longer follow-up, and clinical testing in a real-world scenario are required to conclusively prove its role in presbyopia management.
The Effect of Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty on Corneal Biomechanical Parameters Measured by Corvis ST
Authors: Rafizadeh Seyed Mohsen , Ghochani Ghazal , Khorrami-Nejad Masoud , Jumah Rawshan , Hashemian Hesam 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose:
To determine the effect of upper eyelid blepharoplasty (UEB) surgery on corneal biomechanical parameters 4 months after the procedure.

Methods:
In this prospective longitudinal study, numerous corneal biomechanical parameters were evaluated before and 4 months after UEB surgery. All parameters were measured by the Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (Corvis ST, CVS, Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Germany) device.

Results:
The study included 35 eyelids of the right eyes of 35 patients with dermatochalasis who underwent UEB, with a mean age of 56.9 ± 8.9 (range, 40–75) years. With a Bonferroni corrected significance level of P < 0.001 to account for multiple comparisons, significant increases were observed in the first applanation (A1) and second applanation (A2) times and the highest concavity (HC) time following the UEB surgery. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and biomechanical-compensated IOP (bIOP) also showed a significant increase. Other corneal biomechanical parameters did not show significant differences following the UEB procedure (P > 0.001).

Conclusions:
UEB surgery resulted in significant changes in A1 and A2 applanation times, HC time, IOP, and bIOP. These findings suggest that altered eyelid pressure after UEB surgery can impact specific corneal biomechanical properties. It is advisable for practitioners to evaluate postoperative IOP measurement carefully in patients undergoing UEB surgery due to its potential impact on corneal biomechanical properties.
Comparative study of chocolate balloon versus conventional balloon on vessel preparation for femoropopliteal artery diseases: Propensity score-matched analysis of the CIVILIAN registry
Authors: Fan Weijian , Ye Meng , Wu Ziheng , Feng Zibo , Guo Lianrui , Shi Zhenyu , Fang Xin , He Chunshui , Lu Shuangshuang , Shi Weihao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
The objective of this study was to compare the safety and effectiveness of Chocolate and conventional balloons for vessel preparation followed by drug-coated balloon (DCB) in femoropopliteal (FP) artery disease.

METHODS:
This was a retrospective, multi-centered real-world study. Patients’ data of demographics, lesions, and peri-procedural characteristics were consecutively collected between August 2021 and December 2022. All patients were matched through propensity score matched (PSM) analysis. Primary endpoints included the rate of flow-limiting dissections after ultimate dilatation. Secondary endpoints were the rate of bailout stenting and freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) at 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS:
Patients were finally divided into the Chocolate percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) (n = 148) and the conventional balloon (n = 148) groups after PSM. Regarding the primary endpoint, rates of flow-limiting dissections were slightly lower in the Chocolate PTA group (19.6% vs. 20.3%, P = 0.88). Sub-analysis also showed similar trends in the two groups without sequential dilatation. The rate of flow-limiting dissections was significantly lower in the Chocolate PTA group without combining predilatation (11.7% and 13.3%, P = 0.04). Predictors of bailout stenting in the Chocolate PTA group were chronic limb ischemia, severe calcification, and TASCII C/D. The overall freedom from CD-TLR rate during follow-up was 100% and 98.0% ±1.2% in the Chocolate and conventional groups, respectively (P = 0.08).

CONCLUSION:
Chocolate balloon combined with DCB resulted in a comparable reduced rate of severe dissections and bailout stenting in FP disease patients compared with conventional balloon, especially when combing with non-sequential dilatation. Meanwhile, the Chocolate balloon could achieve significant better outcomes for vessel preparation without performing predilatation.
A retrospective cohort study: Balloon blockage-guided intercostal angiography synchronously displaying intercostal arteries
Authors: Wang Chao , Fang Guanyu , Jin Jie , Wu Jianjin , Liu Yandong , Ji Xiangguo , Bai Jun , Qu Lefeng 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

PURPOSE:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of balloon blockage-guided intercostal angiography (BBIA) for simultaneous observation of intercostal arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Eight patients who underwent BBIA were retrospectively enrolled at a single institution from January 2018 to June 2019. All the procedures were performed during endovascular aneurysm repair. The patients’ demographics, angiographic parameters, and complications were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS:
The mean age of the patients was 69.4 ± 5.0 years and male: female ratio was 7:1. Mean body mass index was 24.1 ± 2.9 kg/m². The number of patients with smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia was 4 (50%), 7 (87.5%), 0 (0%) and 2 (25%), respectively. The total procedural duration, balloon-blocking time, and fluoroscopy time were averaged into 24.1 ± 3.0 min, 35.8 ± 5.0 s, and 5.6 ± 0.6 min, respectively. The mean contrast volume was 85.3 ± 11.6 ml and the mean radiation exposure was 417.3 ± 36.6 mGy. The technical success rate was 100%. A mean of 14 ± 2.5 intercostal arteries was finally visualized. No major complication related to intercostal artery angiography was noted; however, two minor complications were observed, one patient developed hematoma at the groin site after the procedure. Another patient presented with low back pain.

CONCLUSIONS:
BBIA is a safe and effective method for visualizing multiple intercostal arteries simultaneously. The technique may present an alternative for rapidly locating the pathologies at intercostal artery.
Investigation and management of iliac artery endofibrosis
Authors: Tong Yisha , Qi Sara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Iliac artery endofibrosis (IAE) is a nonatherosclerotic vascular condition characterized by subintimal fibrosis of the external iliac artery (EIA). It typically affects young otherwise healthy endurance athletes, especially competitive cyclists. It causes claudication during intense sporting activities. IAE is also known as cyclist’s iliac syndrome, external iliac artery endofibrosis, iliac artery compression, iliac artery syndrome, and iliac outlet syndrome. IAE is relatively rare and perhaps underrecognized. This article reviews current knowledge of the clinical features, diagnostic investigations, and management options for IAE to help multidisciplinary healthcare professionals familiarize themselves with this condition.
Continuum of glucose and bone metabolism impairment across autonomous cortisol secretion: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Han Min-Min , Cao Xiao-Ming , Liu Zi-Ang , Zhang Yi , Liu Yun-Feng 
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND
Autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS) is linked to a higher prevalence of metabolic abnormalities and an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events.
AIM
To evaluate glucose and bone metabolism in patients with ACS using a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).
METHODS
Patients diagnosed with ACS, including Cushing syndrome, mild ACS (MACS), and nonfunctional adrenal incidentaloma (NFAI), were recruited for this study. Glucose variability and glycemic status were assessed using CGMS. Regional bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), and bone area (BA) were evaluated using DXA. CGMS- and DXA-derived parameters were compared across the subgroups of ACS. Correlation analysis was performed to examine relationships between varying degrees of cortisol secretion, measured by cortisol after 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (DST) or 24-hour urine free cortisol (24h UFC), and CGMS- or DXA-derived parameters.
RESULTS
A total of 64 patients with ACS were included in this study: 19 with Cushing syndrome, 11 with MACS, and 34 with NFAI. Glucose variability, time above range (TAR), and time in range (TIR) along with specific areal BMC, BMD, and BA, differed significantly between groups of Cushing syndrome and NFAI. A significant positive correlation was observed between glucose variability or TAR and cortisol after 1 mg overnight DST or 24h UFC. By contrast, TIR, along with regional BMC, BMD, and BA, were negatively correlated with varying degrees of cortisol secretion.
CONCLUSION
Glucose and bone metabolism impairments are on a continuum alteration from NFAI to MACS and Cushing syndrome. Prompt attention should be given to these patients with ACS, especially those with mild hormone secretion. Parameters of glucose variability and glycemic status along with bone condition in regions rich in cancellous bone will provide valuable information.
Role of duodenal mucosal resurfacing in controlling diabetes in rats
Authors: Nie Li-Juan , Cheng Zhe , He Yi-Xian , Yan Qian-Hua , Sun Yao-Huan , Yang Xin-Yi , Tian Jie , Zhu Peng-Fei , Yu Jiang-Yi , Zhou Hui-Ping , Zhou Xi-Qiao 
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND
The duodenum plays a significant role in metabolic regulation, and thickened mucous membranes are associated with insulin resistance. Duodenal mucosal resurfacing (DMR), a new-style endoscopic procedure using hydrothermal energy to ablate this thickened layer, shows promise for enhancing glucose and lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. However, the mechanisms driving these improvements remain largely unexplored.
AIM
To investigate the mechanisms by which DMR improves metabolic disorders using a rat model.
METHODS
Rats with T2D underwent a revised DMR procedure via a gastric incision using a specialized catheter to abrade the duodenal mucosa. The duodenum was evaluated using histology, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. Serum assays measured glucose, lipid profiles, lipopolysaccharide, and intestinal hormones, while the gut microbiota and metabolomics profiles were analyzed through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrum/mass spectrum, severally.
RESULTS
DMR significantly improved glucose and lipid metabolic disorders in T2D rats. It increased the serum levels of cholecystokinin, gastric inhibitory peptide, and glucagon-like peptide 1, and reduced the length and depth of duodenal villi and crypts. DMR also enhanced the intestinal barrier integrity and reduced lipopolysaccharide translocation. Additionally, DMR modified the gut microbiome and metabolome, particularly affecting the Blautia genus. Correlation analysis revealed significant links between the gut microbiota, metabolites, and T2D phenotypes.
CONCLUSION
This study illustrates that DMR addresses metabolic dysfunctions in T2D through multifaceted mechanisms, highlighting the potential role of the Blautia genus on T2D pathogenesis and DMR’s therapeutic impact.
O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine transferase regulates macrophage polarization in diabetic periodontitis: In vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Wu Ye-Ke , Liu Min , Zhou Hong-Ling , He Xiang , Wei Jing , Hua Wei-Han , Li Hui-Jing , Yuan Qiang-Hua , Xie Yun-Fei 
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND
Periodontitis, when exacerbated by diabetes, is characterized by increased M1 macrophage polarization and decreased M2 polarization. O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAcylation), catalyzed by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), promotes inflammatory responses in diabetic periodontitis (DP). Additionally, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase regulates macrophage polarization. However, the interplay between OGT, macrophage polarization, and p38 signaling in the progression of DP remains unexplored.
AIM
To investigate the effect of OGT on macrophage polarization in DP and its role in mediating O-GlcNAcylation of p38.
METHODS
For in vivo experiments, mice were divided into four groups: Control, DP model, model + short hairpin (sh) RNA-negative control, and model + sh-OGT. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin, followed by ligation and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration to induce periodontitis. The impact of OGT was assessed by injecting sh-OGT lentivirus. Maxillary bone destruction was evaluated using micro-computed tomography analysis and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, while macrophage polarization was determined through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. For in vitro experiments, RAW264.7 cells were treated with LPS and high glucose (HG) (25 mmol/L D-glucose) to establish a cell model of DP. OGT was inhibited by OGT inhibitor (OSMI4) treatment and knocked down by sh-OGT transfection. M1/M2 polarization was analyzed using qPCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Levels of O-GlcNAcylation were measured using immunoprecipitation and western blotting.
RESULTS
Our results demonstrated that M1 macrophage polarization led to maxillary bone loss in DP mice, associated with elevated O-GlcNAcylation and OGT levels. Knockdown of OGT promoted the shift from M1 to M2 macrophage polarization in both mouse periodontal tissues and LPS + HG-induced RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, LPS + HG enhanced the O-GlcNAcylation of p38 in RAW264.7 cells. OGT interacted with p38 to promote its O-GlcNAcylation at residues A28, T241, and T347, as well as its phosphorylation at residue Y221.
CONCLUSION
Inhibition of OGT-mediated p38 O-GlcNAcylation deactivates the p38 pathway by suppressing its self-phosphorylation, thereby promoting M1 to M2 macrophage polarization and mitigating DP. These findings suggested that modulating macrophage polarization through regulation of O-GlcNAcylation may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for treating DP.