AIM:To evaluate the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(3D-CVI)in amblyopic eyes of preschool children compared with age-matched healthy controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography(S...AIM:To evaluate the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(3D-CVI)in amblyopic eyes of preschool children compared with age-matched healthy controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography(SS-OCTA).METHODS:A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted.Children aged between 4y and less than 7y diagnosed with hyperopic amblyopia were consecutively recruited between January 1,2021 and May 30,2024.Age-matched controls were selected from healthy children without ocular or systemic diseases.All participants underwent SS-OCTA scanning,and choroidal parameters-including 3D-CVI,choroidal vessel volume(CVV),and choroidal thickness(CT)-were analyzed in both foveal and parafoveal regions.Comparative and correlational analyses were conducted to examine differences between groups and to explore the relationship between best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA)and 3D-CVI.RESULTS:A total of 80 eyes(40 amblyopic and 40 agematched controls)were included.3D-CVI was significantly lower in the amblyopic group compared to controls in both the foveal[0.318(0.2885-0.3525)vs 0.381(0.3460-0.4212),P<0.05]and parafoveal[0.331(0.2982-0.3589)vs 0.386(0.3538-0.4293),P<0.05]regions.Similarly,CT was significantly higher in the amblyopic group than in the control group in both the foveal(438±67.3 vs 369±74.1μm,P<0.001)and parafoveal regions(419±59.0 vs 353±67.5μm,P<0.001),whereas CVV did not differ significantly between the two groups in either region(P>0.05).Furthermore,multivariate regression analysis showed that BCVA was positively associated with foveal 3D-CVI(P=0.024),whereas no such association was found in the parafoveal region.CONCLUSION:Hyperopic amblyopic eyes in preschool children show significantly lower foveal and parafoveal 3D-CVI compared to normal controls,suggesting a potential reduction in 3D-CVI during early refractive development.Lower foveal 3D-CVI is also associated with poorer BCVA,suggesting that 3D-CVI may serve as a valuable parameter for monitoring structural changes in hyperopic amblyopia.展开更多
AIM:To explore the repeatability,reproducibility,and agreement in the measurement of the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)for different swept-source optical coherence tomography(OCT)devices and between OCT and OCT angi...AIM:To explore the repeatability,reproducibility,and agreement in the measurement of the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)for different swept-source optical coherence tomography(OCT)devices and between OCT and OCT angiography(OCTA)images.METHODS:Two swept-source OCT imaging systems,VG200I and Topcon DRI OCT Triton,were used to capture OCT and OCTA images in triplicate.The first and third images were taken by one operator,and the second image was taken by another operator.The built-in software was used to calculate the CVI from the OCTA images(CVI-OCTA),and a custom-designed algorithm was used to calculate the CVI from the OCT images(CVI-OCT).Repeatability and reproducibility were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient(ICC),and agreement between devices and between OCT and OCTA were evaluated with Bland-Altman analysis.RESULTS:Sixty-eight eyes from 35 adults(17 females)were included in the analysis.The average age of the participants was 23.6±2.3y,with an average spherical equivalent refraction of-3.08±2.47 D and an average AL of 25.21±1.20 mm.Both OCT devices demonstrated high repeatability and reproducibility in measuring the CVI-OCTA(all ICCs>0.894 across five choroidal regions)and CVI-OCT(all ICCs>0.838).Furthermore,the between-device agreement in measuring the CVI-OCT was good[mean difference(MD)ranging from-2.32%to-3.07%],but that in measuring the CVI-OCTA was poor(MD,1.48%to-7.43%).Additionally,the between-imaging agreement(CVI-OCTA versus CVI-OCT)was poor for both devices(Triton,MD,6.05%to 12.68%;VG200I,MD,6.67%to 12.09%).CONCLUSION:Both OCT devices and the two analytical methods demonstrate good stability.The inter-device consistency of CVI-OCT is good,while the inter-device consistency of CVI-OCTA and the consistency between the two analytical methods in the same device are both poor.展开更多
The degree of nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injury can be altered by the microenvironment at the site of injury. Stem cells and vascularity are postulated to be a part of a complex pathway that enhances pe...The degree of nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injury can be altered by the microenvironment at the site of injury. Stem cells and vascularity are postulated to be a part of a complex pathway that enhances peripheral nerve regeneration;however, their interaction remains unexplored. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on this interaction, including various mechanisms through which trophic factors are promoted by stem cells and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis after nerve injury is stimulated by hypoxia, mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor, resulting in the growth of preexisting vessels into new areas. Modulation of distinct signaling pathways in stem cells can promote angiogenesis by the secretion of various angiogenic factors. Simultaneously, the importance of stem cells in peripheral nerve regeneration relies on their ability to promote myelin formation and their capacity to be influenced by the microenvironment to differentiate into Schwann-like cells. Stem cells can be acquired through various sources that correlate to their differentiation potential, including embryonic stem cells, neural stem cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. Each source of stem cells serves its particular differentiation potential and properties associated with the promotion of revascularization and nerve regeneration. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles released from cell types and play an important role in cell-to-cell communication. Exosomes hold promise for future transplantation applications, as these vesicles contain fewer membrane-bound proteins, resulting in lower immunogenicity. This review presents pre-clinical and clinical studies that focus on selecting the ideal type of stem cell and optimizing stem cell delivery methods for potential translation to clinical practice. Future studies integrating stem cell-based therapies with the promotion of angiogenesis may elucidate the synergistic pathways and ultimately enhance nerve regeneration.展开更多
Background: Objectives were to examine the effects of selenium (Se) supply and maternal nutritional plane during gestation on mammary gland growth, cellular proliferation, and vascularity at parturition and d 20 of...Background: Objectives were to examine the effects of selenium (Se) supply and maternal nutritional plane during gestation on mammary gland growth, cellular proliferation, and vascularity at parturition and d 20 of lactation. Rambouillet primiparous ewes (n = 84) were allocated to treatments in a 2 x 3 factorial. Factors were dietary Se (adequate Se [ASe, 11.5 μg/kg BW] or high Se [HSe, 77.0 μg/kg BVV]) and nutritional plane (60% IRES], 100% [CON], or 140% [EXC]). At parturition, lambs were removed and 42 ewes (7/treatment) were necropsied. Remaining ewes were fed a common diet meeting requirements for lactation and mechanically milked twice daily until necropsy on d 20. At both necropsy periods, mammary glands were dissected and tissues harvested. Samples were analyzed for RNA, DNA, and protein content, cell proliferation, and vascularity. Where interactions were present (P 〈 0.05), least squares means from the highest-order interaction are presented. Results: Final body weight of ewes was least (P 〈 0.002) in RES, intermediate for CON, and greatest for EXC, regardless of stage of the ewe at necropsy (parturition or d 20 of lactation). In ewes necropsied at parturition, mammary glands were heavier (P = 0.02) in EXC compared to RES, with CON intermediate. Concentration of RNA (rag/g) was decreased (P= 0.01) in EXC compared to CON at parturition. There was a tendency (P= 0.07) for a Se by nutrition interaction in percentage of cells proliferating where ASe-EXC ewes had greater (P_〈 0.02) number of proliferating cells then all other treatments. Mammary vascular area tended (P = 0.08) to be affected by a Se by nutrition interaction where ASe-CON had less (P= 0.007) vascular area than HSe-CON ewes. In ewes necropsied at d 20 of lactation, the number of alveoli per area was decreased (P 〈- 0.05) in RES compared to CON and EXC-fed ewes. Conclusions: Results of this study indicate that proper maternal nutritional plane during gestation is important for mammary gland development, even out to d 20 of lactation.展开更多
Scaphoid fractures,particularly those that occur more proximally,are unreliable in achieving union due to the retrograde blood supply of the scaphoid bone.Vascular compromise is associated with the development of nonu...Scaphoid fractures,particularly those that occur more proximally,are unreliable in achieving union due to the retrograde blood supply of the scaphoid bone.Vascular compromise is associated with the development of nonunions and avascular necrosis of the proximal pole.Due to the tenuous blood supply of the scaphoid,it is imperative that the vascularity be assessed when creating diagnostic and treatment strategies.Early detection of vascular compromise via imaging may signal impending nonunion and allow clinicians to perform interventions that aid in restoring perfusion to the scaphoid.Vascular compromise in the scaphoid presents a diagnostic challenge,in part due to the non-specific findings on plain radiographs and computed tomography.Magnetic resonance imaging techniques have dramatically improved our ability to assess the blood supply to the scaphoid and improve time to intervention.This review aims to summarize these advances and highlights the importance of imaging in assessing vascular compromise in scaphoid nonunion and in reperfusion following surgical intervention.展开更多
AIM:To compare the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and choroidal thickness between fellow eyes of acute primary angle-closure(F-APAC)and chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma(F-CPACG)and the eyes of...AIM:To compare the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and choroidal thickness between fellow eyes of acute primary angle-closure(F-APAC)and chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma(F-CPACG)and the eyes of normal controls.METHODS:This study included 37 patients with unilateral APAC,37 with asymmetric CPACG without prior treatment,and 36 healthy participants.Using swept-source optical coherence tomography(SS-OCT),the macular and peripapillary choroidal thickness and three-dimensional CVI were measured and compared globally and sectorally.Pearson’s correlation analysis and multivariate regression models were used to evaluate choroidal thickness or CVI with related factors.RESULTS:The mean subfoveal CVIs were 0.35±0.10,0.33±0.09,and 0.29±0.04,and the mean subfoveal choroidal thickness were 315.62±52.92,306.22±59.29,and 262.69±45.55μm in the F-APAC,F-CPACG,and normal groups,respectively.All macular sectors showed significantly higher CVIs and choroidal thickness in the F-APAC and F-CPACG eyes than in the normal eyes(P<0.05),while there were no significant differences between the F-APAC and F-CPACG eyes.In the peripapillary region,the mean overall CVIs were 0.21±0.08,0.20±0.08,and 0.19±0.05,and the mean overall choroidal thickness were 180.45±54.18,174.82±50.67,and 176.18±37.94μm in the F-APAC,F-CPACG,and normal groups,respectively.There were no significant differences between any of the two groups in all peripapillary sectors.Younger age,shorter axial length,and the F-APAC or F-CPACG diagnosis were significantly associated with higher subfoveal CVI and thicker subfoveal choroidal thickness(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The fellow eyes of unilateral APAC or asymmetric CPACG have higher macular CVI and choroidal thickness than those of the normal controls.Neither CVI nor choroidal thickness can distinguish between eyes predisposed to APAC or CPACG.A thicker choroid with a higher vascular volume may play a role in the pathogenesis of primary angle-closure glaucoma.展开更多
AIM:To investigate changes in choroidal thickness and vascularity in keratoconus patients treated with corneal crosslinking.METHODS:This study evaluated 28 eyes of 22 patients with keratoconus who underwent corneal cr...AIM:To investigate changes in choroidal thickness and vascularity in keratoconus patients treated with corneal crosslinking.METHODS:This study evaluated 28 eyes of 22 patients with keratoconus who underwent corneal crosslinking.The choroidal thicknesses were evaluated on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography at the preoperative and postoperative 3d,1,and 3mo.Choroidal thickness in the four cardinal quadrants and the fovea were evaluated.The choroidal vascularity index was also calculated.RESULTS:There was no significant difference in central choroidal thickness between the preoperative and postoperative 3d,1mo(P>0.05).There was a significant increase in the 3mo(P=0.034)and a significant decrease in the horizontal choroidal vascularity index on the postoperative 3d(P=0.014),there was no statistically significant change in vertical axes and other visits in horizontal sections(P>0.05).CONCLUSION:This study sheds light on choroidal changes in postoperative corneal crosslinking for keratoconus.While it suggests the procedure’s relative safety for submacular choroid,more extensive research is necessary to confirm these findings and their clinical significance.展开更多
Objective:?The aim of this study is to assess any potential relationship between perifollicular vascularity and occurrence of pregnancy in cases of stimulated IUI cycles using the subjective grading system by 2D trans...Objective:?The aim of this study is to assess any potential relationship between perifollicular vascularity and occurrence of pregnancy in cases of stimulated IUI cycles using the subjective grading system by 2D transvaginal power Doppler ultrasonography.?Design: A prospective cross sectional cohort study. Method: This is a prospective cross-sectional cohort study of 90 stimulated IUI treatment cycles. Selected women were prescribed clomiphene citrate combined with highly purified urinary follicle stimulating hormone. All patients underwent serial transvaginal ultrasound scans starting from day 6 to 7 of the cycle. Perifollicular Doppler blood flows were assessed in dominant follicles ≥18 mm. The patients then were categorized into 3 groups (high vascularity group {G3 & G4}, low vascularity group {G1 & G2} and mixed grades group). Other parameters measured included number of follicles ≥ 18 mm in both ovaries, endometrial thickness and estradiol (E2) level . Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection 10,000 IU IM was given to the patient when the dominant follicle reached 18 mm in diameter. At that time, the endometrium was evaluated as regards endometrial thickness. IUI was carried out using prepared/“washed” semen (husband). All patients received luteal support in the form of progesterone from day of IUI for 14 days. Serum Β-hCG was estimated 2 weeks after insemination. Results: In this study, from all 90 cases only 8 cases got pregnant with pregnancy rate of 8.88% (6 cases got pregnant in high grade vascularity group;2 cases in mixed grades group and no cases got pregnant?in low grade group). There was statistically significant difference among the 3 groups as regarding?the pregnancy rate (P value = 0.02). There is statistically significant difference in perifollicular resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) between pregnant and non pregnant cases (P value = 0.016 and 0.047 respectively). In this study, there is no statistically significant difference between pregnant and non pregnant cases as regarding endometrial thickness and E2 level at the day of hCG administration (P value = 0.39 and 0.76 respectively). Conclusion: Perifollicular blood-flow assessment by 2D transvaginal power Doppler is a good predictive for the outcome of stimulated IUI cycles.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the association between anti-DFS70 antibody positivity and ocular parameters,specifically,the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and other optical coherence tomography(OCT)metrics,in a healthy populati...AIM:To investigate the association between anti-DFS70 antibody positivity and ocular parameters,specifically,the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and other optical coherence tomography(OCT)metrics,in a healthy population.METHODS:This age-and sex-matched case-control study enrolled 84 healthy individuals with positive anti-DFS70 antibody findings and 84 healthy negative controls.All participants underwent detailed ophthalmological examinations,including biometry and OCT imaging.Anti-DFS70 positivity was determined by indirect immunofluorescence and scored semi-quantitatively(1+to 3+).CVI was calculated from OCT images using a standardized protocol with Image J software.Statistical analyses,including Student’s t-test,Mann-Whitney U test,Spearman correlation,and logistic regression,were used to compare groups and identify predictive factors.RESULTS:The individuals who tested positive and negative for anti-DFS70 included in the study were matched for age(median age=47y)and sex(F:M=7:1).CVI was significantly lower in the anti-DFS70-positive group compared to the negative group.A higher anti-DFS70 antibody titer was significantly associated with decreased subfoveal and nasal choroidal thickness(P=0.016 and P=0.014,respectively).In univariate regression analysis,CVI was the only significant predictor of anti-DFS70 positivity[odds ratio(OR)=0.02,P=0.025].Multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between macular thinning outside the subfoveal area and anti-DFS70 status(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Our study demonstrates a novel association between anti-DFS70 antibody positivity and reduced choroidal vascularity in healthy individuals.These findings suggest that anti-DFS70 antibodies may be associated with subtle choroidal vascular changes detectable by OCT,even in asymptomatic individuals.Further longitudinal research is warranted to clarify the underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical significance of these ocular changes.展开更多
Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves’disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)in patients with thyroidassoc...Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves’disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)in patients with thyroidassociated ophthalmopathy(TAO).Methods:In this cross-sectional observational study,40 patients affected by TAO were recruited.Forty healthy individuals,matched for age and sex,served as controls.Foveal enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were obtained from all participants.Images were binarized using the ImageJ software and luminal area(LA)and total choroidal area(TCA)were measured.CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA.The relation between CVI or subfoveal choroidal thickness(SFCT)and clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,diplopia status,gender,and age was evaluated.Results:CVI was significantly higher in patients with TAO(P=0.004).No significant difference was observed in SFCT(P=0.200)and TCA(P=0.153)comparing TAO patients and healthy controls.LA was significantly higher in TAO group(P=0.045).On multiple regression analysis,CVI was associated with TCA(P=0.043).No association was found between SFCT or CVI and TCA,clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,Inami value,diplopia status,gender or age(P>0.05).Conclusions:This is the first study that has demonstrated an increase in CVI in eyes with TAO compared with healthy controls and has assessed its association with clinical features.展开更多
Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in s...Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in spinal cord injury.Previous studies have shown that microglia can promote neuronal survival by phagocytosing dead cells and debris and by releasing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory factors.However,excessive activation of microglia can lead to persistent inflammation and contribute to the formation of glial scars,which hinder axonal regeneration.Despite this,the precise role and mechanisms of microglia during the acute phase of spinal cord injury remain controversial and poorly understood.To elucidate the role of microglia in spinal cord injury,we employed the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 to deplete microglia.We observed that sustained depletion of microglia resulted in an expansion of the lesion area,downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor,and impaired functional recovery after spinal cord injury.Next,we generated a transgenic mouse line with conditional overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor specifically in microglia.We found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia increased angiogenesis and blood flow following spinal cord injury and facilitated the recovery of hindlimb motor function.Additionally,brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia reduced inflammation and neuronal apoptosis during the acute phase of spinal cord injury.Furthermore,through using specific transgenic mouse lines,TMEM119,and the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX73086,we demonstrated that the neuroprotective effects were predominantly due to brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia rather than macrophages.In conclusion,our findings suggest the critical role of microglia in the formation of protective glial scars.Depleting microglia is detrimental to recovery of spinal cord injury,whereas targeting brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia represents a promising and novel therapeutic strategy to enhance motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.展开更多
Ischemic stroke,a frequently occurring form of stroke,is caused by obstruction of cerebral blood flow,which leads to ischemia,hypoxia,and necrosis of local brain tissue.After ischemic stroke,both astrocytes and the bl...Ischemic stroke,a frequently occurring form of stroke,is caused by obstruction of cerebral blood flow,which leads to ischemia,hypoxia,and necrosis of local brain tissue.After ischemic stroke,both astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier undergo morphological and functional transformations.However,the interplay between astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier has received less attention.This comprehensive review explores the physiological and pathological morphological and functional changes in astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier in ischemic stroke.Post-stroke,the structure of endothelial cells and peripheral cells undergoes alterations,causing disruption of the blood–brain barrier.This disruption allows various pro-inflammatory factors and chemokines to cross the blood–brain barrier.Simultaneously,astrocytes swell and primarily adopt two phenotypic states:A1 and A2,which exhibit different roles at different stages of ischemic stroke.During the acute phase,A1 reactive astrocytes secrete vascular endothelial growth factor,matrix metalloproteinases,lipid carrier protein-2,and other cytokines,exacerbating damage to endothelial cells and tight junctions.Conversely,A2 reactive astrocytes produce pentraxin 3,Sonic hedgehog,angiopoietin-1,and other protective factors for endothelial cells.Furthermore,astrocytes indirectly influence blood–brain barrier permeability through ferroptosis and exosomes.In the middle and late(recovery)stages of ischemic stroke,A1 and A2 astrocytes show different effects on glial scar formation.A1 astrocytes promote glial scar formation and inhibit axon growth via glial fibrillary acidic protein,chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans,and transforming growth factor-β.In contrast,A2 astrocytes facilitate axon growth through platelet-derived growth factor,playing a crucial role in vascular remodeling.Therefore,enhancing our understanding of the pathological changes and interactions between astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier is a vital therapeutic target for preventing further brain damage in acute stroke.These insights may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke.展开更多
Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves'disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVi)in patients with thyroid-a...Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves'disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVi)in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).Methods:In this cross-sectional observational study,40 patients affected by TAO were recruited.Forty healthy individuals,matched for age and sex,served as controls.Foveal enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were obtained from all participants.Images were binarized using the ImageJ software and luminal area(LA)and total choroidal area(TCA)were measured.CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA.The relation between CVI or subfoveal choroidal thickness(SFCT)and clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,diplopia status,gender,and age was evaluated.Results:CVI was significantly higher in patients with TAO(P=0.004).No significant difference was observed in SFCT(P=0.200)and TCA(P=0.153)comparing TAO patients and healthy controls.LA was significantly higher in TAO group(P=0.045).On multiple regression analysis,CVI was associated with TCA(P=0.043).No association Was found between SFCT or CVI and TCA,clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,Inami value,diplopia status,genderorage(P>0.05).Conclusions:This is the first study that has demonstrated an increase in CVI in eyes with TAO compared with healthy controls and has assessed its association with clinical features.展开更多
The central nervous system(CNS)does not function in isolation-it engages in continuous molecular dialogue with the vascular and immune systems.Traditionally,the blood-brain barrier(BBB)was portrayed solely as an imper...The central nervous system(CNS)does not function in isolation-it engages in continuous molecular dialogue with the vascular and immune systems.Traditionally,the blood-brain barrier(BBB)was portrayed solely as an impermeable wall,safeguarding the CNS by excluding blood-derived molecules and circulating cells.However,this view has evolved.The BBB is now recognized as a dynamic interface that selectively regulates the exchange of signals,cells.展开更多
Objective:To characterize placental morphologic features in Moroccan women with adverse outcomes,across different clinical contexts,based on the Amsterdam consensus classification.Methods:A prospective analysis was co...Objective:To characterize placental morphologic features in Moroccan women with adverse outcomes,across different clinical contexts,based on the Amsterdam consensus classification.Methods:A prospective analysis was conducted on placentas with umbilical cords collected fresh between March 1,2024 and July 15,2024 from women with adverse pregnancy outcomes.Clinical data(age,parity,gravidity,complications)were retrieved.Macroscopic parameters(weight,dimensions,cord insertion,membranes,lesions)were assessed,followed by systematic sampling.Tissue was processed by standard histology(formalin fixation,paraffin embedding,hematoxylin and eosin staining),and lesions were classified per Amsterdam criteria.Results:16 placentas from patients with adverse pregnancy outcomes were included.The median maternal age was 30 years.Adverse conditions included placental abruption(50%),intrauterine growth restriction(IUGR,38%),intrauterine fetal death(IUFD,31%),pre-eclampsia/eclampsia(19%),premature rupture of membranes(13%),and oligohydramnios(13%).Several placentas were associated with more than one adverse condition.Histopathology revealed maternal vascular malperfusion lesions in 94%,particularly in pre-eclampsia,IUGR,and IUFD.Fetal vascular malperfusion was found in 88%,mainly in IUGR and IUFD.Inflammatory lesions,dominated by acute maternal and fetal responses stage 3(necrotizing chorioamnionitis and funisitis),were primarily linked to IUFD.Conclusions:Placental examination enhances understanding of the pathophysiology underlying adverse pregnancy outcomes,supports diagnostic confirmation,and guides preventive strategies for recurrence.This study highlights the prevalence of maternal vascular malperfusion in Moroccan women and emphasizes the importance of systematic placental histopathology in obstetric care.展开更多
Recently,Tian et al.published a research paper with significant breakthroughs in Cell[1].The study found that targeting the signalling pathways named Serpine2-lowdensity lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(Lrp1)and...Recently,Tian et al.published a research paper with significant breakthroughs in Cell[1].The study found that targeting the signalling pathways named Serpine2-lowdensity lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(Lrp1)and ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1(CD39)-adenosine A_(3)receptor(A_(3)AR)is a promising strategy for the treatment of vascular dementia.The Serpine2-Lrp1 signalling pathway primarily exerts its therapeutic effects on myelin regeneration by regulating the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells.Serpine2 is a secretory serine protease inhibitor regulates proteolytic homeostasis.It may also bind to cell surface receptors such as Lrp1 to directly activate signalling pathways.As a transmembrane glycoprotein receptor,Lrpl mediates the endocytic clearance of ligands.展开更多
Varicocele(VC)is widely recognized as a prevalent and clinically significant cause of male infertility.However,the comprehensive pathogenic mechanisms underlying VC development and progression remain incompletely unde...Varicocele(VC)is widely recognized as a prevalent and clinically significant cause of male infertility.However,the comprehensive pathogenic mechanisms underlying VC development and progression remain incompletely understood,creating an important knowledge gap in the field of andrology.This review establishes that VC pathogenesis centers on abnormal vascular remodeling and integrates multiple contributing elements,including anatomical abnormalities,biochemical disturbances,genetic factors,low body mass index(BMI),age,and specific sports habits,while secondary varicoceles are primarily induced by compressive pathologies.Through a systematic synthesis of current evidence and recent advances,this review aims to elucidate the complex pathogenic network of VC and provide valuable insights to guide future research directions and inform the development of targeted clinical applications.展开更多
Background:The traditional method of heterotopic abdominal heart transplantation(HTx)involves crossclamping the inferior vena cava,which inevitably leads to bilateral lower limb ischemia(LI).This study first aimed to ...Background:The traditional method of heterotopic abdominal heart transplantation(HTx)involves crossclamping the inferior vena cava,which inevitably leads to bilateral lower limb ischemia(LI).This study first aimed to investigate the impact of LI on renal function in rats subjected to unilateral nephrectomy(UNx).Second,a modified method utilizing renal vessel-assisted anastomosis in rats with left UNx was compared with the traditional method for abdominal HTx.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats were utilized as subjects for both experimental phases.In experiment 1,the animals were divided into four groups:sham operation group;LI group-rats undergoing occlusion of the abdominal aorta and vena cava below the renal vessels;UNx group-rats with left UNx;and LI+UNx group.All operated animals were monitored for up to 7 days for biochemical markers,renal histopathology,and survival rates.In experiment 2,we introduced the renal vessel-assisted method as the experimental group and compared it against the traditional method as the control within rat heterotopic HTx models.We assessed operative characteristics,echocardiography results,histological findings,and graft survival.Results:First,LI resulted in acute kidney dysfunction characterized by a decrease in 7day survival rates and creatinine clearance rates in both the LI and LI+UNx groups compared to the sham operation and UNx groups.Particularly,histopathological damage in the kidney and liver did not exhibit significant effects during this period.Second,the implementation of the renal vessel-assisted method significantly reduced bleeding volume at suture sites and enhanced the 7day survival rate compared to the traditional method.Conclusion:Acute kidney injury was induced by LI postoperation in treated rats.The renal vessel-assisted method demonstrated its effectiveness as a superior alternative that mitigates complications associated with the traditional method.展开更多
The formation of wood is affected by the growing season and the environment.Ring-porous tree species have distinct earlywood-latewood differences.However,it is not clear how early wood and latewood respond to drought ...The formation of wood is affected by the growing season and the environment.Ring-porous tree species have distinct earlywood-latewood differences.However,it is not clear how early wood and latewood respond to drought and the differences in adaptation.Therefore,based on the analyses of phenology,growth,and xylem development over a year,xylem development in Fraxinus mandshurica was divided into earlyw ood,transition,and latewood stages.Variation patterns of 38 wood indices from 31 genotypes indicated that the formation of wood tissues was inhibited,and the proportion of xylem cells was affected by drought at each stage.However,soluble sugar affected osmotic regulation only during drought across early wood and transition stages.To maintain water and nutrient transport during drought and to resist embolism risk,drought in the early wood stage leads to varying degrees of early wood vessel diameter reduction,with pits enlarging to compensate.In contrast,during the late wood stage,drought causes latewood vessel diameter to increase and pits to shrink accordingly.In addition,the results indicate that several wood indices correlate with drought resistance at each stage,but early wood vessel diameter,soluble sugar,and latewood ves sel diameters exhibited the strongest correlations in the early wood,transition,and latewood stages.These findings provide clues to understanding plant survival strategies under drought stress and are of significance for plant ecology research on the growth and adaptation of tree species under climate change.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effects of health education based on the Transtheoretical Model(TTM)on self-management and vascular crisis in patients undergoing finger replantation surgery.Methods:A total of 106 patient...Objective:To investigate the effects of health education based on the Transtheoretical Model(TTM)on self-management and vascular crisis in patients undergoing finger replantation surgery.Methods:A total of 106 patients who underwent finger replantation surgery between January 2025 and December 2025 were randomly divided into control and intervention groups using a random number table method(control group,n=52;intervention group,n=54).The control group received standard perioperative nursing care,while the intervention group received TTM-based health education in addition to standard care.Self-management levels and incidence of vascular crisis were compared between the two groups.Results:After intervention,the Adult Health Self-Management Skills Rating Scale(AHSMSRS)scores in both groups increased significantly compared with baseline(control:91.26±5.49 to 116.97±8.15;intervention:90.39±6.72 to 136.38±9.36,p<0.001).The intervention group showed significantly higher AHSMSRS scores than the control group(136.38±9.36 vs.116.97±8.15,p<0.001).Similarly,general self-efficacy scores increased significantly in both groups,with the intervention group demonstrating superior improvement(36.73±4.78 vs.28.49±4.11,p<0.001).The incidence of vascular crisis was significantly lower in the intervention group(5.5%)compared with the control group(19.23%,χ2=3.421,p<0.05).Conclusion:Health education based on the Transtheoretical Model effectively enhances self-management abilities and self-efficacy in patients undergoing finger replantation surgery,and significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative vascular crisis.展开更多
基金Supported by the Youth Special Fund of Clinical Research of Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital(No.2020QN03)Tianjin Key Medical Displine Construction Project(No.TJYXZDXK-3-004A-2).
文摘AIM:To evaluate the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(3D-CVI)in amblyopic eyes of preschool children compared with age-matched healthy controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography(SS-OCTA).METHODS:A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted.Children aged between 4y and less than 7y diagnosed with hyperopic amblyopia were consecutively recruited between January 1,2021 and May 30,2024.Age-matched controls were selected from healthy children without ocular or systemic diseases.All participants underwent SS-OCTA scanning,and choroidal parameters-including 3D-CVI,choroidal vessel volume(CVV),and choroidal thickness(CT)-were analyzed in both foveal and parafoveal regions.Comparative and correlational analyses were conducted to examine differences between groups and to explore the relationship between best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA)and 3D-CVI.RESULTS:A total of 80 eyes(40 amblyopic and 40 agematched controls)were included.3D-CVI was significantly lower in the amblyopic group compared to controls in both the foveal[0.318(0.2885-0.3525)vs 0.381(0.3460-0.4212),P<0.05]and parafoveal[0.331(0.2982-0.3589)vs 0.386(0.3538-0.4293),P<0.05]regions.Similarly,CT was significantly higher in the amblyopic group than in the control group in both the foveal(438±67.3 vs 369±74.1μm,P<0.001)and parafoveal regions(419±59.0 vs 353±67.5μm,P<0.001),whereas CVV did not differ significantly between the two groups in either region(P>0.05).Furthermore,multivariate regression analysis showed that BCVA was positively associated with foveal 3D-CVI(P=0.024),whereas no such association was found in the parafoveal region.CONCLUSION:Hyperopic amblyopic eyes in preschool children show significantly lower foveal and parafoveal 3D-CVI compared to normal controls,suggesting a potential reduction in 3D-CVI during early refractive development.Lower foveal 3D-CVI is also associated with poorer BCVA,suggesting that 3D-CVI may serve as a valuable parameter for monitoring structural changes in hyperopic amblyopia.
基金Supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFC3502503)the Medical and Health Science and Technology Project of the Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission of China(No.2022PY072).
文摘AIM:To explore the repeatability,reproducibility,and agreement in the measurement of the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)for different swept-source optical coherence tomography(OCT)devices and between OCT and OCT angiography(OCTA)images.METHODS:Two swept-source OCT imaging systems,VG200I and Topcon DRI OCT Triton,were used to capture OCT and OCTA images in triplicate.The first and third images were taken by one operator,and the second image was taken by another operator.The built-in software was used to calculate the CVI from the OCTA images(CVI-OCTA),and a custom-designed algorithm was used to calculate the CVI from the OCT images(CVI-OCT).Repeatability and reproducibility were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient(ICC),and agreement between devices and between OCT and OCTA were evaluated with Bland-Altman analysis.RESULTS:Sixty-eight eyes from 35 adults(17 females)were included in the analysis.The average age of the participants was 23.6±2.3y,with an average spherical equivalent refraction of-3.08±2.47 D and an average AL of 25.21±1.20 mm.Both OCT devices demonstrated high repeatability and reproducibility in measuring the CVI-OCTA(all ICCs>0.894 across five choroidal regions)and CVI-OCT(all ICCs>0.838).Furthermore,the between-device agreement in measuring the CVI-OCT was good[mean difference(MD)ranging from-2.32%to-3.07%],but that in measuring the CVI-OCTA was poor(MD,1.48%to-7.43%).Additionally,the between-imaging agreement(CVI-OCTA versus CVI-OCT)was poor for both devices(Triton,MD,6.05%to 12.68%;VG200I,MD,6.67%to 12.09%).CONCLUSION:Both OCT devices and the two analytical methods demonstrate good stability.The inter-device consistency of CVI-OCT is good,while the inter-device consistency of CVI-OCTA and the consistency between the two analytical methods in the same device are both poor.
文摘The degree of nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injury can be altered by the microenvironment at the site of injury. Stem cells and vascularity are postulated to be a part of a complex pathway that enhances peripheral nerve regeneration;however, their interaction remains unexplored. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on this interaction, including various mechanisms through which trophic factors are promoted by stem cells and angiogenesis. Angiogenesis after nerve injury is stimulated by hypoxia, mediated by vascular endothelial growth factor, resulting in the growth of preexisting vessels into new areas. Modulation of distinct signaling pathways in stem cells can promote angiogenesis by the secretion of various angiogenic factors. Simultaneously, the importance of stem cells in peripheral nerve regeneration relies on their ability to promote myelin formation and their capacity to be influenced by the microenvironment to differentiate into Schwann-like cells. Stem cells can be acquired through various sources that correlate to their differentiation potential, including embryonic stem cells, neural stem cells, and mesenchymal stem cells. Each source of stem cells serves its particular differentiation potential and properties associated with the promotion of revascularization and nerve regeneration. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles released from cell types and play an important role in cell-to-cell communication. Exosomes hold promise for future transplantation applications, as these vesicles contain fewer membrane-bound proteins, resulting in lower immunogenicity. This review presents pre-clinical and clinical studies that focus on selecting the ideal type of stem cell and optimizing stem cell delivery methods for potential translation to clinical practice. Future studies integrating stem cell-based therapies with the promotion of angiogenesis may elucidate the synergistic pathways and ultimately enhance nerve regeneration.
基金supported by National Research Initiative Competitive Grants no.2005-35206-15281 from the USDA Cooperative State ResearchEducation and Extension Service to JSC+1 种基金DARand KAV
文摘Background: Objectives were to examine the effects of selenium (Se) supply and maternal nutritional plane during gestation on mammary gland growth, cellular proliferation, and vascularity at parturition and d 20 of lactation. Rambouillet primiparous ewes (n = 84) were allocated to treatments in a 2 x 3 factorial. Factors were dietary Se (adequate Se [ASe, 11.5 μg/kg BW] or high Se [HSe, 77.0 μg/kg BVV]) and nutritional plane (60% IRES], 100% [CON], or 140% [EXC]). At parturition, lambs were removed and 42 ewes (7/treatment) were necropsied. Remaining ewes were fed a common diet meeting requirements for lactation and mechanically milked twice daily until necropsy on d 20. At both necropsy periods, mammary glands were dissected and tissues harvested. Samples were analyzed for RNA, DNA, and protein content, cell proliferation, and vascularity. Where interactions were present (P 〈 0.05), least squares means from the highest-order interaction are presented. Results: Final body weight of ewes was least (P 〈 0.002) in RES, intermediate for CON, and greatest for EXC, regardless of stage of the ewe at necropsy (parturition or d 20 of lactation). In ewes necropsied at parturition, mammary glands were heavier (P = 0.02) in EXC compared to RES, with CON intermediate. Concentration of RNA (rag/g) was decreased (P= 0.01) in EXC compared to CON at parturition. There was a tendency (P= 0.07) for a Se by nutrition interaction in percentage of cells proliferating where ASe-EXC ewes had greater (P_〈 0.02) number of proliferating cells then all other treatments. Mammary vascular area tended (P = 0.08) to be affected by a Se by nutrition interaction where ASe-CON had less (P= 0.007) vascular area than HSe-CON ewes. In ewes necropsied at d 20 of lactation, the number of alveoli per area was decreased (P 〈- 0.05) in RES compared to CON and EXC-fed ewes. Conclusions: Results of this study indicate that proper maternal nutritional plane during gestation is important for mammary gland development, even out to d 20 of lactation.
文摘Scaphoid fractures,particularly those that occur more proximally,are unreliable in achieving union due to the retrograde blood supply of the scaphoid bone.Vascular compromise is associated with the development of nonunions and avascular necrosis of the proximal pole.Due to the tenuous blood supply of the scaphoid,it is imperative that the vascularity be assessed when creating diagnostic and treatment strategies.Early detection of vascular compromise via imaging may signal impending nonunion and allow clinicians to perform interventions that aid in restoring perfusion to the scaphoid.Vascular compromise in the scaphoid presents a diagnostic challenge,in part due to the non-specific findings on plain radiographs and computed tomography.Magnetic resonance imaging techniques have dramatically improved our ability to assess the blood supply to the scaphoid and improve time to intervention.This review aims to summarize these advances and highlights the importance of imaging in assessing vascular compromise in scaphoid nonunion and in reperfusion following surgical intervention.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82101087)Shanghai Clinical Research Key Project(No.SHDC2020CR6029).
文摘AIM:To compare the three-dimensional choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and choroidal thickness between fellow eyes of acute primary angle-closure(F-APAC)and chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma(F-CPACG)and the eyes of normal controls.METHODS:This study included 37 patients with unilateral APAC,37 with asymmetric CPACG without prior treatment,and 36 healthy participants.Using swept-source optical coherence tomography(SS-OCT),the macular and peripapillary choroidal thickness and three-dimensional CVI were measured and compared globally and sectorally.Pearson’s correlation analysis and multivariate regression models were used to evaluate choroidal thickness or CVI with related factors.RESULTS:The mean subfoveal CVIs were 0.35±0.10,0.33±0.09,and 0.29±0.04,and the mean subfoveal choroidal thickness were 315.62±52.92,306.22±59.29,and 262.69±45.55μm in the F-APAC,F-CPACG,and normal groups,respectively.All macular sectors showed significantly higher CVIs and choroidal thickness in the F-APAC and F-CPACG eyes than in the normal eyes(P<0.05),while there were no significant differences between the F-APAC and F-CPACG eyes.In the peripapillary region,the mean overall CVIs were 0.21±0.08,0.20±0.08,and 0.19±0.05,and the mean overall choroidal thickness were 180.45±54.18,174.82±50.67,and 176.18±37.94μm in the F-APAC,F-CPACG,and normal groups,respectively.There were no significant differences between any of the two groups in all peripapillary sectors.Younger age,shorter axial length,and the F-APAC or F-CPACG diagnosis were significantly associated with higher subfoveal CVI and thicker subfoveal choroidal thickness(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The fellow eyes of unilateral APAC or asymmetric CPACG have higher macular CVI and choroidal thickness than those of the normal controls.Neither CVI nor choroidal thickness can distinguish between eyes predisposed to APAC or CPACG.A thicker choroid with a higher vascular volume may play a role in the pathogenesis of primary angle-closure glaucoma.
文摘AIM:To investigate changes in choroidal thickness and vascularity in keratoconus patients treated with corneal crosslinking.METHODS:This study evaluated 28 eyes of 22 patients with keratoconus who underwent corneal crosslinking.The choroidal thicknesses were evaluated on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography at the preoperative and postoperative 3d,1,and 3mo.Choroidal thickness in the four cardinal quadrants and the fovea were evaluated.The choroidal vascularity index was also calculated.RESULTS:There was no significant difference in central choroidal thickness between the preoperative and postoperative 3d,1mo(P>0.05).There was a significant increase in the 3mo(P=0.034)and a significant decrease in the horizontal choroidal vascularity index on the postoperative 3d(P=0.014),there was no statistically significant change in vertical axes and other visits in horizontal sections(P>0.05).CONCLUSION:This study sheds light on choroidal changes in postoperative corneal crosslinking for keratoconus.While it suggests the procedure’s relative safety for submacular choroid,more extensive research is necessary to confirm these findings and their clinical significance.
文摘Objective:?The aim of this study is to assess any potential relationship between perifollicular vascularity and occurrence of pregnancy in cases of stimulated IUI cycles using the subjective grading system by 2D transvaginal power Doppler ultrasonography.?Design: A prospective cross sectional cohort study. Method: This is a prospective cross-sectional cohort study of 90 stimulated IUI treatment cycles. Selected women were prescribed clomiphene citrate combined with highly purified urinary follicle stimulating hormone. All patients underwent serial transvaginal ultrasound scans starting from day 6 to 7 of the cycle. Perifollicular Doppler blood flows were assessed in dominant follicles ≥18 mm. The patients then were categorized into 3 groups (high vascularity group {G3 & G4}, low vascularity group {G1 & G2} and mixed grades group). Other parameters measured included number of follicles ≥ 18 mm in both ovaries, endometrial thickness and estradiol (E2) level . Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection 10,000 IU IM was given to the patient when the dominant follicle reached 18 mm in diameter. At that time, the endometrium was evaluated as regards endometrial thickness. IUI was carried out using prepared/“washed” semen (husband). All patients received luteal support in the form of progesterone from day of IUI for 14 days. Serum Β-hCG was estimated 2 weeks after insemination. Results: In this study, from all 90 cases only 8 cases got pregnant with pregnancy rate of 8.88% (6 cases got pregnant in high grade vascularity group;2 cases in mixed grades group and no cases got pregnant?in low grade group). There was statistically significant difference among the 3 groups as regarding?the pregnancy rate (P value = 0.02). There is statistically significant difference in perifollicular resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) between pregnant and non pregnant cases (P value = 0.016 and 0.047 respectively). In this study, there is no statistically significant difference between pregnant and non pregnant cases as regarding endometrial thickness and E2 level at the day of hCG administration (P value = 0.39 and 0.76 respectively). Conclusion: Perifollicular blood-flow assessment by 2D transvaginal power Doppler is a good predictive for the outcome of stimulated IUI cycles.
文摘AIM:To investigate the association between anti-DFS70 antibody positivity and ocular parameters,specifically,the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)and other optical coherence tomography(OCT)metrics,in a healthy population.METHODS:This age-and sex-matched case-control study enrolled 84 healthy individuals with positive anti-DFS70 antibody findings and 84 healthy negative controls.All participants underwent detailed ophthalmological examinations,including biometry and OCT imaging.Anti-DFS70 positivity was determined by indirect immunofluorescence and scored semi-quantitatively(1+to 3+).CVI was calculated from OCT images using a standardized protocol with Image J software.Statistical analyses,including Student’s t-test,Mann-Whitney U test,Spearman correlation,and logistic regression,were used to compare groups and identify predictive factors.RESULTS:The individuals who tested positive and negative for anti-DFS70 included in the study were matched for age(median age=47y)and sex(F:M=7:1).CVI was significantly lower in the anti-DFS70-positive group compared to the negative group.A higher anti-DFS70 antibody titer was significantly associated with decreased subfoveal and nasal choroidal thickness(P=0.016 and P=0.014,respectively).In univariate regression analysis,CVI was the only significant predictor of anti-DFS70 positivity[odds ratio(OR)=0.02,P=0.025].Multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between macular thinning outside the subfoveal area and anti-DFS70 status(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Our study demonstrates a novel association between anti-DFS70 antibody positivity and reduced choroidal vascularity in healthy individuals.These findings suggest that anti-DFS70 antibodies may be associated with subtle choroidal vascular changes detectable by OCT,even in asymptomatic individuals.Further longitudinal research is warranted to clarify the underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical significance of these ocular changes.
文摘Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves’disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVI)in patients with thyroidassociated ophthalmopathy(TAO).Methods:In this cross-sectional observational study,40 patients affected by TAO were recruited.Forty healthy individuals,matched for age and sex,served as controls.Foveal enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were obtained from all participants.Images were binarized using the ImageJ software and luminal area(LA)and total choroidal area(TCA)were measured.CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA.The relation between CVI or subfoveal choroidal thickness(SFCT)and clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,diplopia status,gender,and age was evaluated.Results:CVI was significantly higher in patients with TAO(P=0.004).No significant difference was observed in SFCT(P=0.200)and TCA(P=0.153)comparing TAO patients and healthy controls.LA was significantly higher in TAO group(P=0.045).On multiple regression analysis,CVI was associated with TCA(P=0.043).No association was found between SFCT or CVI and TCA,clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,Inami value,diplopia status,gender or age(P>0.05).Conclusions:This is the first study that has demonstrated an increase in CVI in eyes with TAO compared with healthy controls and has assessed its association with clinical features.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82072165 and 82272256(both to XM)the Key Project of Xiangyang Central Hospital,No.2023YZ03(to RM)。
文摘Spinal cord injury represents a severe form of central nervous system trauma for which effective treatments remain limited.Microglia is the resident immune cells of the central nervous system,play a critical role in spinal cord injury.Previous studies have shown that microglia can promote neuronal survival by phagocytosing dead cells and debris and by releasing neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory factors.However,excessive activation of microglia can lead to persistent inflammation and contribute to the formation of glial scars,which hinder axonal regeneration.Despite this,the precise role and mechanisms of microglia during the acute phase of spinal cord injury remain controversial and poorly understood.To elucidate the role of microglia in spinal cord injury,we employed the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 to deplete microglia.We observed that sustained depletion of microglia resulted in an expansion of the lesion area,downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor,and impaired functional recovery after spinal cord injury.Next,we generated a transgenic mouse line with conditional overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor specifically in microglia.We found that brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia increased angiogenesis and blood flow following spinal cord injury and facilitated the recovery of hindlimb motor function.Additionally,brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia reduced inflammation and neuronal apoptosis during the acute phase of spinal cord injury.Furthermore,through using specific transgenic mouse lines,TMEM119,and the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor PLX73086,we demonstrated that the neuroprotective effects were predominantly due to brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia rather than macrophages.In conclusion,our findings suggest the critical role of microglia in the formation of protective glial scars.Depleting microglia is detrimental to recovery of spinal cord injury,whereas targeting brain-derived neurotrophic factor overexpression in microglia represents a promising and novel therapeutic strategy to enhance motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injury.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.U21A20400(to QW)the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82104560(to CL)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Beijing,No.7232279(to XW)the Project of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine,Nos.2024-JYB-JBZD-043(to CL),2022-JYB-JBZR-004(to XW)。
文摘Ischemic stroke,a frequently occurring form of stroke,is caused by obstruction of cerebral blood flow,which leads to ischemia,hypoxia,and necrosis of local brain tissue.After ischemic stroke,both astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier undergo morphological and functional transformations.However,the interplay between astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier has received less attention.This comprehensive review explores the physiological and pathological morphological and functional changes in astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier in ischemic stroke.Post-stroke,the structure of endothelial cells and peripheral cells undergoes alterations,causing disruption of the blood–brain barrier.This disruption allows various pro-inflammatory factors and chemokines to cross the blood–brain barrier.Simultaneously,astrocytes swell and primarily adopt two phenotypic states:A1 and A2,which exhibit different roles at different stages of ischemic stroke.During the acute phase,A1 reactive astrocytes secrete vascular endothelial growth factor,matrix metalloproteinases,lipid carrier protein-2,and other cytokines,exacerbating damage to endothelial cells and tight junctions.Conversely,A2 reactive astrocytes produce pentraxin 3,Sonic hedgehog,angiopoietin-1,and other protective factors for endothelial cells.Furthermore,astrocytes indirectly influence blood–brain barrier permeability through ferroptosis and exosomes.In the middle and late(recovery)stages of ischemic stroke,A1 and A2 astrocytes show different effects on glial scar formation.A1 astrocytes promote glial scar formation and inhibit axon growth via glial fibrillary acidic protein,chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans,and transforming growth factor-β.In contrast,A2 astrocytes facilitate axon growth through platelet-derived growth factor,playing a crucial role in vascular remodeling.Therefore,enhancing our understanding of the pathological changes and interactions between astrocytes and the blood–brain barrier is a vital therapeutic target for preventing further brain damage in acute stroke.These insights may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke.
文摘Background:Hemodynamic changes have been observed in patients with Graves'disease.The aim of our study was to evaluate choroidal vascular change using the choroidal vascularity index(CVi)in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy(TAO).Methods:In this cross-sectional observational study,40 patients affected by TAO were recruited.Forty healthy individuals,matched for age and sex,served as controls.Foveal enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography scans were obtained from all participants.Images were binarized using the ImageJ software and luminal area(LA)and total choroidal area(TCA)were measured.CVI was calculated as the proportion of LA to TCA.The relation between CVI or subfoveal choroidal thickness(SFCT)and clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,diplopia status,gender,and age was evaluated.Results:CVI was significantly higher in patients with TAO(P=0.004).No significant difference was observed in SFCT(P=0.200)and TCA(P=0.153)comparing TAO patients and healthy controls.LA was significantly higher in TAO group(P=0.045).On multiple regression analysis,CVI was associated with TCA(P=0.043).No association Was found between SFCT or CVI and TCA,clinical activity score,exophthalmometric value,Inami value,diplopia status,genderorage(P>0.05).Conclusions:This is the first study that has demonstrated an increase in CVI in eyes with TAO compared with healthy controls and has assessed its association with clinical features.
基金supported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number K02NS110973 and R01NS126498(to MAP).
文摘The central nervous system(CNS)does not function in isolation-it engages in continuous molecular dialogue with the vascular and immune systems.Traditionally,the blood-brain barrier(BBB)was portrayed solely as an impermeable wall,safeguarding the CNS by excluding blood-derived molecules and circulating cells.However,this view has evolved.The BBB is now recognized as a dynamic interface that selectively regulates the exchange of signals,cells.
文摘Objective:To characterize placental morphologic features in Moroccan women with adverse outcomes,across different clinical contexts,based on the Amsterdam consensus classification.Methods:A prospective analysis was conducted on placentas with umbilical cords collected fresh between March 1,2024 and July 15,2024 from women with adverse pregnancy outcomes.Clinical data(age,parity,gravidity,complications)were retrieved.Macroscopic parameters(weight,dimensions,cord insertion,membranes,lesions)were assessed,followed by systematic sampling.Tissue was processed by standard histology(formalin fixation,paraffin embedding,hematoxylin and eosin staining),and lesions were classified per Amsterdam criteria.Results:16 placentas from patients with adverse pregnancy outcomes were included.The median maternal age was 30 years.Adverse conditions included placental abruption(50%),intrauterine growth restriction(IUGR,38%),intrauterine fetal death(IUFD,31%),pre-eclampsia/eclampsia(19%),premature rupture of membranes(13%),and oligohydramnios(13%).Several placentas were associated with more than one adverse condition.Histopathology revealed maternal vascular malperfusion lesions in 94%,particularly in pre-eclampsia,IUGR,and IUFD.Fetal vascular malperfusion was found in 88%,mainly in IUGR and IUFD.Inflammatory lesions,dominated by acute maternal and fetal responses stage 3(necrotizing chorioamnionitis and funisitis),were primarily linked to IUFD.Conclusions:Placental examination enhances understanding of the pathophysiology underlying adverse pregnancy outcomes,supports diagnostic confirmation,and guides preventive strategies for recurrence.This study highlights the prevalence of maternal vascular malperfusion in Moroccan women and emphasizes the importance of systematic placental histopathology in obstetric care.
基金support from the Sichuan Science and Technology Program(2024JDHJ0043 and 2025YFHZ0121).
文摘Recently,Tian et al.published a research paper with significant breakthroughs in Cell[1].The study found that targeting the signalling pathways named Serpine2-lowdensity lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1(Lrp1)and ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1(CD39)-adenosine A_(3)receptor(A_(3)AR)is a promising strategy for the treatment of vascular dementia.The Serpine2-Lrp1 signalling pathway primarily exerts its therapeutic effects on myelin regeneration by regulating the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells.Serpine2 is a secretory serine protease inhibitor regulates proteolytic homeostasis.It may also bind to cell surface receptors such as Lrp1 to directly activate signalling pathways.As a transmembrane glycoprotein receptor,Lrpl mediates the endocytic clearance of ligands.
基金funded by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(Grant Number:2025M773939)NationalNatural Science Foundation of China(Grant Number:82205131)Sichuan Science and Technology Program(Grant Number:2025ZNSFSC1798).
文摘Varicocele(VC)is widely recognized as a prevalent and clinically significant cause of male infertility.However,the comprehensive pathogenic mechanisms underlying VC development and progression remain incompletely understood,creating an important knowledge gap in the field of andrology.This review establishes that VC pathogenesis centers on abnormal vascular remodeling and integrates multiple contributing elements,including anatomical abnormalities,biochemical disturbances,genetic factors,low body mass index(BMI),age,and specific sports habits,while secondary varicoceles are primarily induced by compressive pathologies.Through a systematic synthesis of current evidence and recent advances,this review aims to elucidate the complex pathogenic network of VC and provide valuable insights to guide future research directions and inform the development of targeted clinical applications.
基金The Youth Project of Tianjin Natural Science Foundation,Grant/Award Number:23JCQNJC01380。
文摘Background:The traditional method of heterotopic abdominal heart transplantation(HTx)involves crossclamping the inferior vena cava,which inevitably leads to bilateral lower limb ischemia(LI).This study first aimed to investigate the impact of LI on renal function in rats subjected to unilateral nephrectomy(UNx).Second,a modified method utilizing renal vessel-assisted anastomosis in rats with left UNx was compared with the traditional method for abdominal HTx.Methods:Male Sprague-Dawley rats were utilized as subjects for both experimental phases.In experiment 1,the animals were divided into four groups:sham operation group;LI group-rats undergoing occlusion of the abdominal aorta and vena cava below the renal vessels;UNx group-rats with left UNx;and LI+UNx group.All operated animals were monitored for up to 7 days for biochemical markers,renal histopathology,and survival rates.In experiment 2,we introduced the renal vessel-assisted method as the experimental group and compared it against the traditional method as the control within rat heterotopic HTx models.We assessed operative characteristics,echocardiography results,histological findings,and graft survival.Results:First,LI resulted in acute kidney dysfunction characterized by a decrease in 7day survival rates and creatinine clearance rates in both the LI and LI+UNx groups compared to the sham operation and UNx groups.Particularly,histopathological damage in the kidney and liver did not exhibit significant effects during this period.Second,the implementation of the renal vessel-assisted method significantly reduced bleeding volume at suture sites and enhanced the 7day survival rate compared to the traditional method.Conclusion:Acute kidney injury was induced by LI postoperation in treated rats.The renal vessel-assisted method demonstrated its effectiveness as a superior alternative that mitigates complications associated with the traditional method.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD2200303)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32271903,U24A20428)。
文摘The formation of wood is affected by the growing season and the environment.Ring-porous tree species have distinct earlywood-latewood differences.However,it is not clear how early wood and latewood respond to drought and the differences in adaptation.Therefore,based on the analyses of phenology,growth,and xylem development over a year,xylem development in Fraxinus mandshurica was divided into earlyw ood,transition,and latewood stages.Variation patterns of 38 wood indices from 31 genotypes indicated that the formation of wood tissues was inhibited,and the proportion of xylem cells was affected by drought at each stage.However,soluble sugar affected osmotic regulation only during drought across early wood and transition stages.To maintain water and nutrient transport during drought and to resist embolism risk,drought in the early wood stage leads to varying degrees of early wood vessel diameter reduction,with pits enlarging to compensate.In contrast,during the late wood stage,drought causes latewood vessel diameter to increase and pits to shrink accordingly.In addition,the results indicate that several wood indices correlate with drought resistance at each stage,but early wood vessel diameter,soluble sugar,and latewood ves sel diameters exhibited the strongest correlations in the early wood,transition,and latewood stages.These findings provide clues to understanding plant survival strategies under drought stress and are of significance for plant ecology research on the growth and adaptation of tree species under climate change.
文摘Objective:To investigate the effects of health education based on the Transtheoretical Model(TTM)on self-management and vascular crisis in patients undergoing finger replantation surgery.Methods:A total of 106 patients who underwent finger replantation surgery between January 2025 and December 2025 were randomly divided into control and intervention groups using a random number table method(control group,n=52;intervention group,n=54).The control group received standard perioperative nursing care,while the intervention group received TTM-based health education in addition to standard care.Self-management levels and incidence of vascular crisis were compared between the two groups.Results:After intervention,the Adult Health Self-Management Skills Rating Scale(AHSMSRS)scores in both groups increased significantly compared with baseline(control:91.26±5.49 to 116.97±8.15;intervention:90.39±6.72 to 136.38±9.36,p<0.001).The intervention group showed significantly higher AHSMSRS scores than the control group(136.38±9.36 vs.116.97±8.15,p<0.001).Similarly,general self-efficacy scores increased significantly in both groups,with the intervention group demonstrating superior improvement(36.73±4.78 vs.28.49±4.11,p<0.001).The incidence of vascular crisis was significantly lower in the intervention group(5.5%)compared with the control group(19.23%,χ2=3.421,p<0.05).Conclusion:Health education based on the Transtheoretical Model effectively enhances self-management abilities and self-efficacy in patients undergoing finger replantation surgery,and significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative vascular crisis.