Optimal health during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the mother and the developing fetus.This article is focused on the impact of oral health and the role of personalized oral hygiene management i...Optimal health during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the mother and the developing fetus.This article is focused on the impact of oral health and the role of personalized oral hygiene management in addressing prevalent dental issues among pregnant women,with particular emphasis on periodontal disease and dental caries.Despite the high prevalence of these dental problems and their association with obstetric complications such as pre-term birth and low birth weight,many pregnant women do not receive adequate dental care.This gap in care is often due to misconceptions about the safety of dental treat-ments during pregnancy and lack of awareness on the part of healthcare profes-sionals.Appreciations of the impacts of oral health and personalization of oral hygiene strategies such as tailored education and support,have proven effective in improving oral health in this population.Significant reductions in the incidence of caries and periodontal disease may be achieved by adapting care to the specific needs of each patient,thereby enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes.Integration of personalized oral hygiene management into maternal health pro-grams and enhancement of ongoing education for pregnant women and healthcare professionals are essential steps in the reduction of pregnancy-related risks and improvement of maternal and neonatal well-being.Core Tip:In this article,we reviewed a recent study on the effects of personalized oral hygiene management on the oral health of pregnant women,as discussed in the article by Men et al.The study demonstrated that personalized oral hygiene interventions significantly improved oral health outcomes during pregnancy by reducing the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease.We emphasized the importance of individualized oral care programs that integrate education and tailored support,and we highlighted their significance in enhancing maternal and fetal health.This approach underscores the need for incorporating personalized oral hygiene management into routine prenatal care in order to optimize health outcomes.CONCLUSION This article emphasizes the critical role of personalized oral hygiene management in improving oral health during pregnancy.By tailoring oral care strategies to individual needs,significant improvements in dental health may be achieved,as evidenced by the reduced CAT scores observed in the experimental group in the study by Men et al[25].This personalized approach not only addresses common oral issues such as dental caries and periodontal disease but also underscores the broader implications for maternal and fetal health.Despite the positive results,there remains a gap in consistency in the application of oral health practices during pregnancy,partly due to misconceptions and lack of awareness among patients and healthcare providers.Future research should aim at validating these findings across diverse populations,investigating the impact of oral hygiene interventions at various stages of pregnancy,and evaluating their long-term effects on maternal and fetal health.Integrating personalized oral hygiene management into maternal health programs and promoting continuous education for pregnant women and healthcare professionals are essential steps toward enhancing overall health outcomes.By proactively managing oral health,the risks associated with pregnancy may be reduced while improving maternal and neonatal well-being.展开更多
γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the ...γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the Notch family of cell-surface receptors.Mutations inγ-secretase and amyloid precursor protein lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease.γ-Secretase has thus served as a critical drug target for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s disease as well.However,critical gaps remain in understanding the mechanisms of processive proteolysis of substrates,the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,and allosteric modulation of substrate cleavage byγ-secretase.In this review,we focus on recent studies of structural dynamic mechanisms ofγ-secretase.Different mechanisms,including the“Fit-Stay-Trim,”“Sliding-Unwinding,”and“Tilting-Unwinding,”have been proposed for substrate proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein byγ-secretase based on all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.While an incorrect registry of the Notch1 substrate was identified in the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Notch1-boundγ-secretase,molecular dynamics simulations on a resolved model of Notch1-boundγ-secretase that was reconstructed using the amyloid precursor protein-boundγ-secretase as a template successfully capturedγ-secretase activation for proper cleavages of both wildtype and mutant Notch,being consistent with biochemical experimental findings.The approach could be potentially applied to decipher the processing mechanisms of various substrates byγ-secretase.In addition,controversy over the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,particularly the issue of whether they stabilize or destabilizeγ-secretase-substrate complexes,is discussed.Finally,an outlook is provided for future studies ofγ-secretase,including pathways of substrate binding and product release,effects of modulators on familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations of theγ-secretase-substrate complexes.Comprehensive understanding of the functional mechanisms ofγ-secretase will greatly facilitate the rational design of effective drug molecules for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease in general.展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide;however,its therapeutic options are limited.Understanding the molecular mechanisms of HCC could provide insight into new ...Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide;however,its therapeutic options are limited.Understanding the molecular mechanisms of HCC could provide insight into new therapies.Emerging studies indicate the important role of long-noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)in the pathogenesis of HCC.The expression of the well-studied lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1(TUG1)is upregulated in HCC tissues,but its transcriptomic effects in HCC cells remain unexplored.We established TUG1-knockdown and control HCC cells for RNA-seq experiments.KEGG analysis revealed glycolysis as the top enriched pathway upon TUG1 silencing.Accordingly,TUG1-depleted HCC cells showed impairments in glucose uptake,ATP synthesis,and lactate production.Clinical HCC tissue data revealed positive gene expression correlations between TUG1 and several glycolysis-related genes.To identify a molecular function of TUG1 in glycolysis,we explored the competing endogenous model and used bioinformatic tools to find the five microRNAs(miRNAs)that had the most binding sites for TUG1.Among these miRNAs,miR-122-5p exhibited an inverse correlation in gene expression with most TUG1-regulated glycolysis genes,including PKM,ALDOA,ENO2,and PFKM.Dual-luciferase assays demonstrated the direct interaction between TUG1 and miR-122-5p and between miR-122-5p and the 3ʹuntranslated regions of both PKM and ALDOA.We further showed that inhibition of miR-122-5p alleviated the suppression of glycolysis induced by TUG1 depletion.Together,our RNA-seq analysis of TUG1-depleted HCC cells,combined with clinical data,reveals a critical role of TUG1 in regulating glycolysis and provides new insight into its oncogenic function in HCC.展开更多
Extracellular vesicles(EVs)have arisen as potential therapeutic tools in managing infectious diseases because EVs can regulate cell-to-cell signaling,function as drug transport mechanisms,and influence immune reaction...Extracellular vesicles(EVs)have arisen as potential therapeutic tools in managing infectious diseases because EVs can regulate cell-to-cell signaling,function as drug transport mechanisms,and influence immune reactions.They are obtained from a myriad of sources,such as plants,humans,and animal cells.EVs like exosomes and ectosomes can be utilized in their native form as therapeutics or engineered to encompass antimicrobials,vaccines,and oligonucleotides of interest with a targeted delivery strategy.An in-depth understanding of host-pathogen dynamics provides a solid foundation for exploiting its full potential in therapeutics against infectious diseases.This review mainly offers an extensive summary of EVs,comprising their various origins,formations,and pathogen relationships.It further provides insights into the various techniques utilized in isolating and engineering these vesicles to target infectious diseases and how challenges involving large-scale production and cargo loading efficiency should be addressed for clinical application.Finally,preclinical and clinical implementations of EVs derived from animals,plants,and microorganisms are elucidated,stressing their promise for designing innovative antimicrobial approaches.展开更多
Neuroinflammation has been identified as a crucial element in several neurological disorders. Glial cells play a critical role in directing neuroinflammation, both in deleterious and beneficial ways.
BACKGROUND Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA)remains a serious and potentially preventable complication among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM),particularly in Saudi Arabia.Psychological constructs such as perceive...BACKGROUND Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA)remains a serious and potentially preventable complication among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM),particularly in Saudi Arabia.Psychological constructs such as perceived severity and susceptibility influence health behaviour,yet their role in pediatric diabetes management remains underexplored.AIM To examine psychological predictors of DKA in children with T1DM using the health belief model,and to assess the role of caregiver-perceived understanding in influencing adherence and DKA occurrence.METHODS A case-control study was conducted at Prince Sultan Military Medical City in Riyadh,Saudi Arabia,involving 191 caregivers of children with T1DM(96 cases with a history of DKA and 95 controls without).Validated questionnaires measured perceived severity,susceptibility,understanding,and adherence.Statistical analyses included independent t-tests,Pearson and Spearman correlations,and multiple regression.RESULTS Perceived understanding was the strongest predictor of adherence(β=1.03,P<0.001)and was inversely associated with DKA occurrence(P<0.001).Children without a DKA history had significantly higher levels of perceived understanding and adherence.Perceived severity had a moderate positive association with adherence,while perceived susceptibility showed a weak negative correlation.CONCLUSION Caregiver-perceived understanding plays a critical role in adherence and DKA prevention.These findings support expanding the health belief model to include perceived understanding as a distinct construct and highlight the importance of integrating comprehension-focused strategies into pediatric diabetes education.展开更多
BACKGROUND The generation of intrabony defects due to the iatrogenic use of elastic bands is an undesirable situation that can result in persistent gingival inflammation with subsequent bone degradation,thus ultimatel...BACKGROUND The generation of intrabony defects due to the iatrogenic use of elastic bands is an undesirable situation that can result in persistent gingival inflammation with subsequent bone degradation,thus ultimately leading to tooth loss.CASE SUMMARY This clinical case involved a 27-year-old male patient who complained of persistent inflammation and bleeding in the upper anterior region of the gums,despite having undergone dental cleaning for at least 4 years.The dental and medical history indicated the use of removable orthodontic appliances for 8 years,after which braces were placed for 2 years.The intraoral evaluation revealed inflammation and localized suppuration in teeth 11 and 12.Measurements of 2-7 mm for probing depth and 1-5 mm for clinical attachment loss were detected,and combined bone loss was observed via radiographs.Based on the clinical and radiographic findings,localized stage III,grade C periodontitis was diagnosed.During subgingival debridement,two elastic bands emerged around the involved teeth.The bone defects persisted;therefore,they were surgically addressed using a papilla preservation flap and guided tissue regeneration(GTR).CONCLUSION The use of elastic bands of various sizes and elasticities is often essential in multiple orthodontic treatments.However,it is crucial to perform a thorough check-up for each patient during treatment and at the end of treatment to remove any remaining residue of resin,metal bands,or orthodontic bands.Additionally,it is imperative to inform the patients of the importance of attending their follow-up appointments.The use of elastic bands in orthodontics requires special care;moreover,GTR is a management option for intrabony defects associated with the iatrogenic use of bands.展开更多
A unitized regenerative fuel cell(URFC)is a device that may function reversibly as either a fuel cell(FC)or water elec-trolysis(WE).An important component of this device is the Membrane electrode assembly(MEA).Therefo...A unitized regenerative fuel cell(URFC)is a device that may function reversibly as either a fuel cell(FC)or water elec-trolysis(WE).An important component of this device is the Membrane electrode assembly(MEA).Therefore,this study aimed to compare the performance outcomes of MEA using electrodes with single and three catalyst layers.This study measured Electrochemical Surface Area(ECSA),Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy(EIS),X-ray Diffraction analysis(XRD),and X-ray Fluorescence(XRF).Furthermore,the round-trip efficiency(RTE)of the MEA,as w ell as the performance in FC and WE mode,was measured.In comparison,The ECSA values of Pt-Ru/C and Pt/C with three catalyst layers were higher than the single catalyst layer.This result was supported by electrode characterization data for XRD and XRF.The respective electrical conductivity values of Pt-Ru/C and Pt/C with three catalyst layers are also higher than the single cata-lyst layer,and the performance of URFC using MEA with three catalyst layers has the highest value of RTE among the MEA performances of URFC,which is 100%at a current density of 4 mA·cm-2.展开更多
Spinal cord injury results in permanent loss of neurological functions due to severance of neural networks.Transplantation of neural stem cells holds promise to repair disrupted connections.Yet,ensuring the survival a...Spinal cord injury results in permanent loss of neurological functions due to severance of neural networks.Transplantation of neural stem cells holds promise to repair disrupted connections.Yet,ensuring the survival and integration of neural stem cells into the host neural circuit remains a formidable challenge.Here,we investigated whether modifying the intrinsic properties of neural stem cells could enhance their integration post-transplantation.We focused on phosphatase and tensin homolog(PTEN),a well-characterized tumor suppressor known to critically regulate neuronal survival and axonal regeneration.By deleting Pten in mouse neural stem cells,we observed increased neurite outgrowth and enhanced resistance to neurotoxic environments in culture.Upon transplantation into injured spinal cords,Pten-deficient neural stem cells exhibited higher survival and more extensive rostrocaudal distribution.To examine the potential influence of partial PTEN suppression,rat neural stem cells were treated with short hairpin RNA targeting PTEN,and the PTEN knockdown resulted in significant improvements in neurite growth,survival,and neurosphere motility in vitro.Transplantation of sh PTEN-treated neural stem cells into the injured spinal cord also led to an increase in graft survival and migration to an extent similar to that of complete deletion.Moreover,PTEN suppression facilitated neurite elongation from NSC-derived neurons migrating from the lesion epicenter.These findings suggest that modifying intrinsic signaling pathways,such as PTEN,within neural stem cells could bolster their therapeutic efficacy,offering potential avenues for future regenerative strategies for spinal cord injury.展开更多
Primary liver cancer(PLC)is a prevalent malignancy with high incidence and mortality rates globally.Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),primarily resulting from hepatitis B virus infections in Asia,constitutes most PLC case...Primary liver cancer(PLC)is a prevalent malignancy with high incidence and mortality rates globally.Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),primarily resulting from hepatitis B virus infections in Asia,constitutes most PLC cases.Despite advancements in targeted therapies and localized treatments,the 5-year survival rate remains low,indicating limited efficacy of current approaches.The advent of immunotherapy,particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs),has brought new hope for patients with PLC.However,the liver's unique immune microenvironment presents significant challenges to the effectiveness of immunotherapy in HCC.This article reviews recent research developments in liver cancer immunotherapy,focusing on ICIs,combination therapies,emerging treatments,and prospective future directions.展开更多
The 19th Workshop on Antarctic Meteorology and Climate(WAMC)and the 8th Year of Polar Prediction in the Southern Hemisphere(YOPP-SH)meeting were held in June 2024 at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center,The Ohio...The 19th Workshop on Antarctic Meteorology and Climate(WAMC)and the 8th Year of Polar Prediction in the Southern Hemisphere(YOPP-SH)meeting were held in June 2024 at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center,The Ohio State University,Columbus,Ohio.These hybrid events convened 79 participants from 15 nations to foster international collaboration on Antarctic meteorology,climate research,and forecasting.The WAMC featured presentations on automatic weather stations,numerical weather prediction,Antarctic sea ice dynamics,and extreme weather events.The YOPP-SH meeting emphasized the positive impacts of enhanced observations during the 2022 Winter Special Observing Period(SOP)on forecast accuracy and addressed the transition toward the Polar Coupled Analysis and Prediction for Services(PCAPS)initiative.The outcomes reflect significant advancements in polar meteorological research and underscore the importance of sustained collaborative efforts,including improved observational networks and advanced modeling systems,to address the unique challenges of Antarctic meteorology.Future workshops will continue to support and expand upon these critical themes.展开更多
Arsenic,a known environmental carcinogen,disrupts intestinal homeostasis,posing a significant threat to human health.Mitigating its toxic effects is crucial,and this study explores the potential of swim bladder sulfat...Arsenic,a known environmental carcinogen,disrupts intestinal homeostasis,posing a significant threat to human health.Mitigating its toxic effects is crucial,and this study explores the potential of swim bladder sulfated glycosaminoglycan(SBSG)in achieving this.Our previous in vitro studies have shown that SBSG to ameliorate arsenic-induced damage in intestinal epithelial cells,but its in vivo effects remain elusive.The current investigation demonstrates that SBSG exhibits a beneficial prebiotic action in vivo,regulating gut microbiota,metabolites,and intestinal barrier function to counter arsenic's adverse effects.Specifically,SBSG regulates microbiota composition,suppressing pathogenic species like Alistipes and Candidatus_Saccharimonas while promoting beneficial ones such as Ruminococcus and Akkermansia.In the colon,SBSG fermentation enhances the production of short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs),leading to the upregulation of GPR43,GPR109A,and Olfr78 receptors.Additionally,SBSG strengthens the intestinal barrier by increasing the expression of Claudin-1,Occludin,and ZO-1,and enhances mucin gene expression(MUC-1 and MUC-2)to address chemical barrier disruptions.Immunologically,SBSG modulates the RORγt/Foxp3 pathway and the TLR4/My D88/NF-κB signaling cascade,regulating the immune barrier.These findings suggest that SBSG could be a promising prebiotic candidate for maintaining intestinal health and may serve as a dietary supplement or adjunct in heavy metal detoxification therapies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Liver imaging and transient elastography(TE)are both tools used to assess liver fibrosis and steatosis among people with hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection.However,the diagnostic accuracy of conventional imagi...BACKGROUND Liver imaging and transient elastography(TE)are both tools used to assess liver fibrosis and steatosis among people with hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection.However,the diagnostic accuracy of conventional imaging in detecting fibrosis and steatosis in this patient population remains unclear.AIM To investigate the correlation between steatosis and fibrosis and abnormal findings on liver imaging in patients with HCV.METHODS We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients with HCV at Grady Liver Clinic who had TE exams between 2018-2019.We analyzed the correlation of controlled attenuation parameter and liver stiffness measurement on TE and abnormal findings on liver imaging.Liver imaging findings(hepatic steatosis,increased echogenicity,cirrhosis,and chronic liver disease)were further evaluated for their diagnostic performance in detecting fibrosis(≥F2,≥F3,≥F4)and steatosis(≥S1,≥S2,≥S3).RESULTS Of 959 HCV patients who underwent TE,651 had liver imaging.Higher controlled attenuation parameter scores were observed in patients with abnormal liver findings(P=0.0050),hepatic steatosis(P<0.0001),and increased echogenicity(P<0.0001).Higher liver stiffness measurement values were also noted in those with abnormal liver(P<0.0001)and increased echogenicity(P=0.0026).Steatosis severity correlated with hepatic steatosis(r=0.195,P<0.001)and increased echogenicity(r=0.209,P<0.001).For fibrosis detection,abnormal liver imaging had moderate sensitivity(81.7%)and specificity(70.4%)for cirrhosis(≥F4),while cirrhosis on imaging had high specificity(99.2%)but low sensitivity(18.3%).Increased echogenicity showed high specificity(92.8%)but low sensitivity(20.9%)for steatosis detection.CONCLUSION Liver imaging detects advanced fibrosis and steatosis but lacks early-stage sensitivity.Integrating TE with imaging may improve evaluation in patients with HCV.展开更多
The unique properties of TiO_(2)-sulfur(TiO_(2)-S)modified graphene nanocomposite electrode(GPE/TiO_(2)-S)in the electrochemical sensing of formaldehyde compound has been evaluated.We prepared TiO_(2)-S by hydrotherma...The unique properties of TiO_(2)-sulfur(TiO_(2)-S)modified graphene nanocomposite electrode(GPE/TiO_(2)-S)in the electrochemical sensing of formaldehyde compound has been evaluated.We prepared TiO_(2)-S by hydrothermal method and modified the graphene nanocomposite electrode by applying electrochemical cyclic voltammetry(CV)approach.The TiO_(2)-S nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),while the GPE/TiO_(2)-S was examined by scanning electron microscopy(FESEM)and X-Ray fluorosense(XRF)techniques.TiO_(2)-S has a grain size of 19.32 nm.The surface morphology of the GPE/TiO_(2)-S nanocomposite shows a good,intact,and tightly porous structure with TiO_(2)-S covers the graphene surface.The content of optimized GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrodes is 41.5%of graphene,37.8%of TiO_(2),and 12.4%of sulfur that was prepared by mixing 1 g of TiO_(2)-S with 0.5 g of graphene and 0.3 mL paraffin.The GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrode produces a high anodic current(I_(pa))of 800μA and a high cathodic current(I_(pc))of-600μA at a scan rate of 0.1 V·s^(-1)using an electrolyte0.01 mol·L^(-1)K_3[Fe(CN)_6]solution containing 150 mg·L^(-1)formaldehyde.The limit of detection can reach as low as 9.7 mg·L^(-1)with stability with Horwitz ratio value as low as 0.397.The composite electrode also exhibits excellent slectivity properties by showing clear formaldehyde sugnal in the presence of high concentration of interfering agent.GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrode should find potential application of formaldehyde detection in food industries.展开更多
The extensive use of polymeric materials in single-use packaging has driven the need to develop biodegradable alternatives.This study investigates the incorporation of graphene oxide(GO)and Moringa oleifera seed oil(M...The extensive use of polymeric materials in single-use packaging has driven the need to develop biodegradable alternatives.This study investigates the incorporation of graphene oxide(GO)and Moringa oleifera seed oil(MOSO)into a gelatin matrix to create polymer films and evaluate their potential as active packaging materials.The properties of these films were evaluated using structural,thermal,mechanical,optical,and physicochemical methods to determine their suitability for food packaging applications.The results showed that GO and MOSO were homogeneously dispersed in the gelatin matrix,forming colloidal particles(around 5μm in diameter).The addition of GO increased opacity by approximately 20 times the base value while MOSO affected light transmittance without impacting opacity.Mechanical properties were affected differently,GO acted as a crosslinking agent reducing elongation and increasing tensile strength at break,on the other hand MOSO acted as a plasticizer,making films more plastic increasing elongation a 30%.These effects counteracted each other,and similar behavior was recorded in differential scanning calorimetry.The films exhibited an improved water vapor resistance,which is crucial for food packaging.These findings indicate that the incorporation of GO and MOSO into a gelatin matrix may produce biodegradable polymer films with enhanced properties,suitable for active packaging in the food industry.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an inflammatory condition of the intestine,resulting from an increase in oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators.In this study,the extract of endophytic bacterium Rhizobium aegyptiacum...Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an inflammatory condition of the intestine,resulting from an increase in oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators.In this study,the extract of endophytic bacterium Rhizobium aegyptiacum was prepared for the first time using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS).In addition,also for the first time,the protective potential of R.aegyptiacum was revealed using an in vivo rat model of UC.The animals were grouped into four categories:normal control(groupⅠ),R.aegyptiacum(groupⅡ),acetic acid(AA)-induced UC(groupⅢ),and R.aegyptiacum-treated AA-induced UC(groupⅣ).In groupⅣ,R.aegyptiacum was administered at 0.2 mg/kg daily for one week before and two weeks after the induction of UC.After sacrificing the rats on the last day of the experiment,colon tissues were collected and subjected to histological,immunohistochemical,and biochemical investigations.There was a remarkable improvement in the histological findings of the colon tissues in groupⅣ,as revealed by hematoxylin and eosin(H&E)staining,Masson's trichrome staining,and periodic acid-Schiff(PAS)staining.Normal mucosal surfaces covered with a straight,intact,and thin brush border were revealed.Goblet cells appeared magenta in color,and there was a significant decrease in the distribution of collagen fibers in the mucosa and submucosal connective tissues.All these findings were comparable to the respective characteristics of the control group.Regarding cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)immunostaining,a weak immune reaction was shown in most cells.Moreover,the colon tissues were examined using a scanning electron microscope,which confirmed the results of histological assessment.A regular polygonal unit pattern was seen with crypt orifices of different sizes and numerous goblet cells.Furthermore,the levels of catalase(CAT),myeloperoxidase(MPO),nitric oxide(NO),interleukin-6(IL-6),and interlukin-1β(IL-1β)were determined in the colonic tissues of the different groups using colorimetric assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).In comparison with groupⅢ,groupⅣexhibited a significant rise(P<0.05)in the CAT level but a substantial decline(P<0.05)in the NO,MPO,and inflammatory cytokine(IL-6 and IL-1β)levels.Based on reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR),the tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)gene expression was upregulated in groupⅢ,which was significantly downregulated(P<0.05)by treatment with R.aegyptiacum in groupⅣ.On the contrary,the heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)gene was substantially upregulated in groupⅣ.Our findings imply that the oral consumption of R.aegyptiacum ameliorates AA-induced UC in rats by restoring and reestablishing the mucosal integrity,in addition to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.Accordingly,R.aegyptiacum is potentially effective and beneficial in human UC therapy,which needs to be further investigated in future work.展开更多
Surgical repair has been the standard therapy for severe mitral regurgitation causing symptoms or left ventricular dysfunction.Percutaneous mitral valve repair has become an appealing alternative approach for patients...Surgical repair has been the standard therapy for severe mitral regurgitation causing symptoms or left ventricular dysfunction.Percutaneous mitral valve repair has become an appealing alternative approach for patients who are not suitable for surgery.However,clinical trial data are not available on the institutional impact of a percutaneous mitral valve repair program on mitral valve surgery.The current study retrospectively evaluated the impact of the MitraClip program on the mitral valve surgery volume and outcomes.Patient data were retrieved from the 2 years before and the 2 years after initiation of the MitraClip program.The volume of MitraClip procedures increased from eight cases in 2015 to 91 cases in 2017.Since the initiation of the MitraClip program in 2015,the volume of both mitral valve replacement and mitral valve repair also increased(43 vs.60 and 110 vs.154,respectively).Importantly,we observed improved surgical outcomes,including fewer perioperative complications and lower operative mortality and in-hospital mortality.Data from our single-institution experience indicate that the introduction of the MitraClip program is associated with increased mitral valve surgery volume and improved outcomes.The establishment of the MitraClip program enables the hospital to provide higher quality of care and potentially become a referring center for structural heart patients.展开更多
Spinal cord injury can be traumatic or non-traumatic in origin,with the latter rising in incidence and prevalence with the aging demographics of our society.Moreove r,as the global population ages,individuals with co-...Spinal cord injury can be traumatic or non-traumatic in origin,with the latter rising in incidence and prevalence with the aging demographics of our society.Moreove r,as the global population ages,individuals with co-existent degenerative spinal pathology comprise a growing number of traumatic spinal cord injury cases,especially involving the cervical spinal cord.This makes recovery and treatment approaches particula rly challenging as age and comorbidities may limit regenerative capacity.For these reasons,it is critical to better understand the complex milieu of spinal cord injury lesion pathobiology and the ensuing inflammatory response.This review discusses microglia-specific purinergic and cytokine signaling pathways,as well as microglial modulation of synaptic stability and plasticity after injury.Further,we evaluate the role of astrocytes in neurotransmission and calcium signaling,as well as their border-forming response to neural lesions.Both the inflammatory and reparative roles of these cells have eluded our complete understanding and remain key therapeutic targets due to their extensive structural and functional roles in the nervous system.Recent advances have shed light on the roles of glia in neurotransmission and reparative injury responses that will change how interventions are directed.Understanding key processes and existing knowledge gaps will allow future research to effectively target these cells and harness their regenerative potential.展开更多
Diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are defined by inflammation and the damage neurons undergo due to oxidative stress. A primary reactive oxygen species contributor in the central nervous system, NAD...Diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are defined by inflammation and the damage neurons undergo due to oxidative stress. A primary reactive oxygen species contributor in the central nervous system, NADPH oxidase 4, is viewed as a potential therapeutic touchstone and indicative marker for these ailments. This in-depth review brings to light distinct features of NADPH oxidase 4, responsible for generating superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, emphasizing its pivotal role in activating glial cells, inciting inflammation, and disturbing neuronal functions. Significantly, malfunctioning astrocytes, forming the majority in the central nervous system, play a part in advancing neurodegenerative diseases, due to their reactive oxygen species and inflammatory factor secretion. Our study reveals that aiming at NADPH oxidase 4 within astrocytes could be a viable treatment pathway to reduce oxidative damage and halt neurodegenerative processes. Adjusting NADPH oxidase 4 activity might influence the neuroinflammatory cytokine levels, including myeloperoxidase and osteopontin, offering better prospects for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. This review sheds light on the role of NADPH oxidase 4 in neural degeneration, emphasizing its drug target potential, and paving the path for novel treatment approaches to combat these severe conditions.展开更多
Systematic optimization of the photocatalyst and investigation of the role of each component is important to maximizing catalytic activity and comprehending the photocatalytic conversion of CO_(2) reduction to solar f...Systematic optimization of the photocatalyst and investigation of the role of each component is important to maximizing catalytic activity and comprehending the photocatalytic conversion of CO_(2) reduction to solar fuels.A surface-modified Ag@Ru-P25 photocatalyst with H_(2)O_(2) treatment was designed in this study to convert CO_(2) and H_(2)O vapor into highly selective CH4.Ru doping followed by Ag nanoparticles(NPs)cocatalyst deposition on P25(TiO_(2))enhances visible light absorption and charge separation,whereas H_(2)O_(2) treatment modifies the surface of the photocatalyst with hydroxyl(–OH)groups and promotes CO_(2) adsorption.High-resonance transmission electron microscopy,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy,X-ray absorption near-edge structure,and extended X-ray absorption fine structure techniques were used to analyze the surface and chemical composition of the photocatalyst,while thermogravimetric analysis,CO_(2) adsorption isotherm,and temperature programmed desorption study were performed to examine the significance of H_(2)O_(2) treatment in increasing CO_(2) reduction activity.The optimized Ag1.0@Ru1.0-P25 photocatalyst performed excellent CO_(2) reduction activity into CO,CH4,and C2H6 with a~95%selectivity of CH4,where the activity was~135 times higher than that of pristine TiO_(2)(P25).For the first time,this work explored the effect of H_(2)O_(2) treatment on the photocatalyst that dramatically increases CO_(2) reduction activity.展开更多
文摘Optimal health during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the mother and the developing fetus.This article is focused on the impact of oral health and the role of personalized oral hygiene management in addressing prevalent dental issues among pregnant women,with particular emphasis on periodontal disease and dental caries.Despite the high prevalence of these dental problems and their association with obstetric complications such as pre-term birth and low birth weight,many pregnant women do not receive adequate dental care.This gap in care is often due to misconceptions about the safety of dental treat-ments during pregnancy and lack of awareness on the part of healthcare profes-sionals.Appreciations of the impacts of oral health and personalization of oral hygiene strategies such as tailored education and support,have proven effective in improving oral health in this population.Significant reductions in the incidence of caries and periodontal disease may be achieved by adapting care to the specific needs of each patient,thereby enhancing maternal and fetal health outcomes.Integration of personalized oral hygiene management into maternal health pro-grams and enhancement of ongoing education for pregnant women and healthcare professionals are essential steps in the reduction of pregnancy-related risks and improvement of maternal and neonatal well-being.Core Tip:In this article,we reviewed a recent study on the effects of personalized oral hygiene management on the oral health of pregnant women,as discussed in the article by Men et al.The study demonstrated that personalized oral hygiene interventions significantly improved oral health outcomes during pregnancy by reducing the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease.We emphasized the importance of individualized oral care programs that integrate education and tailored support,and we highlighted their significance in enhancing maternal and fetal health.This approach underscores the need for incorporating personalized oral hygiene management into routine prenatal care in order to optimize health outcomes.CONCLUSION This article emphasizes the critical role of personalized oral hygiene management in improving oral health during pregnancy.By tailoring oral care strategies to individual needs,significant improvements in dental health may be achieved,as evidenced by the reduced CAT scores observed in the experimental group in the study by Men et al[25].This personalized approach not only addresses common oral issues such as dental caries and periodontal disease but also underscores the broader implications for maternal and fetal health.Despite the positive results,there remains a gap in consistency in the application of oral health practices during pregnancy,partly due to misconceptions and lack of awareness among patients and healthcare providers.Future research should aim at validating these findings across diverse populations,investigating the impact of oral hygiene interventions at various stages of pregnancy,and evaluating their long-term effects on maternal and fetal health.Integrating personalized oral hygiene management into maternal health programs and promoting continuous education for pregnant women and healthcare professionals are essential steps toward enhancing overall health outcomes.By proactively managing oral health,the risks associated with pregnancy may be reduced while improving maternal and neonatal well-being.
基金supported in part by Award 2121063 from National Science Foundation(to YM)AG66986 from the National Institutes of Health(to MSW).
文摘γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the Notch family of cell-surface receptors.Mutations inγ-secretase and amyloid precursor protein lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease.γ-Secretase has thus served as a critical drug target for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s disease as well.However,critical gaps remain in understanding the mechanisms of processive proteolysis of substrates,the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,and allosteric modulation of substrate cleavage byγ-secretase.In this review,we focus on recent studies of structural dynamic mechanisms ofγ-secretase.Different mechanisms,including the“Fit-Stay-Trim,”“Sliding-Unwinding,”and“Tilting-Unwinding,”have been proposed for substrate proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein byγ-secretase based on all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.While an incorrect registry of the Notch1 substrate was identified in the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Notch1-boundγ-secretase,molecular dynamics simulations on a resolved model of Notch1-boundγ-secretase that was reconstructed using the amyloid precursor protein-boundγ-secretase as a template successfully capturedγ-secretase activation for proper cleavages of both wildtype and mutant Notch,being consistent with biochemical experimental findings.The approach could be potentially applied to decipher the processing mechanisms of various substrates byγ-secretase.In addition,controversy over the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,particularly the issue of whether they stabilize or destabilizeγ-secretase-substrate complexes,is discussed.Finally,an outlook is provided for future studies ofγ-secretase,including pathways of substrate binding and product release,effects of modulators on familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations of theγ-secretase-substrate complexes.Comprehensive understanding of the functional mechanisms ofγ-secretase will greatly facilitate the rational design of effective drug molecules for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease in general.
基金supported by the Thailand Science Research and Innovation Fund Chulalongkorn University(Grant No.HEAF67300078)the 90th Anniversary Scholarship,Chulalongkorn University Ratchadapisek Sompoch Fund(Grant No.Batch#55,T.Boonto)the Center of Excellence in Hepatitis and Liver Cancer,Faculty of Medicine,Chulalongkorn University.T.Boonto was supported by the scholarship from the Graduate School,Chulalongkorn University,to commemorate the 72^(nd) anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej(Grant No.Batch#22).
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide;however,its therapeutic options are limited.Understanding the molecular mechanisms of HCC could provide insight into new therapies.Emerging studies indicate the important role of long-noncoding RNAs(lncRNAs)in the pathogenesis of HCC.The expression of the well-studied lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1(TUG1)is upregulated in HCC tissues,but its transcriptomic effects in HCC cells remain unexplored.We established TUG1-knockdown and control HCC cells for RNA-seq experiments.KEGG analysis revealed glycolysis as the top enriched pathway upon TUG1 silencing.Accordingly,TUG1-depleted HCC cells showed impairments in glucose uptake,ATP synthesis,and lactate production.Clinical HCC tissue data revealed positive gene expression correlations between TUG1 and several glycolysis-related genes.To identify a molecular function of TUG1 in glycolysis,we explored the competing endogenous model and used bioinformatic tools to find the five microRNAs(miRNAs)that had the most binding sites for TUG1.Among these miRNAs,miR-122-5p exhibited an inverse correlation in gene expression with most TUG1-regulated glycolysis genes,including PKM,ALDOA,ENO2,and PFKM.Dual-luciferase assays demonstrated the direct interaction between TUG1 and miR-122-5p and between miR-122-5p and the 3ʹuntranslated regions of both PKM and ALDOA.We further showed that inhibition of miR-122-5p alleviated the suppression of glycolysis induced by TUG1 depletion.Together,our RNA-seq analysis of TUG1-depleted HCC cells,combined with clinical data,reveals a critical role of TUG1 in regulating glycolysis and provides new insight into its oncogenic function in HCC.
基金funded by the National Science Foundation grant(IOS-1900377),received by QLM and EPSCoR GRSP Round 19 grant received by SVTW.
文摘Extracellular vesicles(EVs)have arisen as potential therapeutic tools in managing infectious diseases because EVs can regulate cell-to-cell signaling,function as drug transport mechanisms,and influence immune reactions.They are obtained from a myriad of sources,such as plants,humans,and animal cells.EVs like exosomes and ectosomes can be utilized in their native form as therapeutics or engineered to encompass antimicrobials,vaccines,and oligonucleotides of interest with a targeted delivery strategy.An in-depth understanding of host-pathogen dynamics provides a solid foundation for exploiting its full potential in therapeutics against infectious diseases.This review mainly offers an extensive summary of EVs,comprising their various origins,formations,and pathogen relationships.It further provides insights into the various techniques utilized in isolating and engineering these vesicles to target infectious diseases and how challenges involving large-scale production and cargo loading efficiency should be addressed for clinical application.Finally,preclinical and clinical implementations of EVs derived from animals,plants,and microorganisms are elucidated,stressing their promise for designing innovative antimicrobial approaches.
基金supported by a grant from the Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation(NRF),which is funded by the Korean government(MSIP)(NRF-2020M3E5D9079764)(to KS)。
文摘Neuroinflammation has been identified as a crucial element in several neurological disorders. Glial cells play a critical role in directing neuroinflammation, both in deleterious and beneficial ways.
基金Supported by the Ongoing Research Funding Program at King Saud University,Riyadh,Saudi Arabia,No.ORF-2025-1315.
文摘BACKGROUND Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA)remains a serious and potentially preventable complication among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus(T1DM),particularly in Saudi Arabia.Psychological constructs such as perceived severity and susceptibility influence health behaviour,yet their role in pediatric diabetes management remains underexplored.AIM To examine psychological predictors of DKA in children with T1DM using the health belief model,and to assess the role of caregiver-perceived understanding in influencing adherence and DKA occurrence.METHODS A case-control study was conducted at Prince Sultan Military Medical City in Riyadh,Saudi Arabia,involving 191 caregivers of children with T1DM(96 cases with a history of DKA and 95 controls without).Validated questionnaires measured perceived severity,susceptibility,understanding,and adherence.Statistical analyses included independent t-tests,Pearson and Spearman correlations,and multiple regression.RESULTS Perceived understanding was the strongest predictor of adherence(β=1.03,P<0.001)and was inversely associated with DKA occurrence(P<0.001).Children without a DKA history had significantly higher levels of perceived understanding and adherence.Perceived severity had a moderate positive association with adherence,while perceived susceptibility showed a weak negative correlation.CONCLUSION Caregiver-perceived understanding plays a critical role in adherence and DKA prevention.These findings support expanding the health belief model to include perceived understanding as a distinct construct and highlight the importance of integrating comprehension-focused strategies into pediatric diabetes education.
文摘BACKGROUND The generation of intrabony defects due to the iatrogenic use of elastic bands is an undesirable situation that can result in persistent gingival inflammation with subsequent bone degradation,thus ultimately leading to tooth loss.CASE SUMMARY This clinical case involved a 27-year-old male patient who complained of persistent inflammation and bleeding in the upper anterior region of the gums,despite having undergone dental cleaning for at least 4 years.The dental and medical history indicated the use of removable orthodontic appliances for 8 years,after which braces were placed for 2 years.The intraoral evaluation revealed inflammation and localized suppuration in teeth 11 and 12.Measurements of 2-7 mm for probing depth and 1-5 mm for clinical attachment loss were detected,and combined bone loss was observed via radiographs.Based on the clinical and radiographic findings,localized stage III,grade C periodontitis was diagnosed.During subgingival debridement,two elastic bands emerged around the involved teeth.The bone defects persisted;therefore,they were surgically addressed using a papilla preservation flap and guided tissue regeneration(GTR).CONCLUSION The use of elastic bands of various sizes and elasticities is often essential in multiple orthodontic treatments.However,it is crucial to perform a thorough check-up for each patient during treatment and at the end of treatment to remove any remaining residue of resin,metal bands,or orthodontic bands.Additionally,it is imperative to inform the patients of the importance of attending their follow-up appointments.The use of elastic bands in orthodontics requires special care;moreover,GTR is a management option for intrabony defects associated with the iatrogenic use of bands.
基金support from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia under grant HICOE-2023-005.
文摘A unitized regenerative fuel cell(URFC)is a device that may function reversibly as either a fuel cell(FC)or water elec-trolysis(WE).An important component of this device is the Membrane electrode assembly(MEA).Therefore,this study aimed to compare the performance outcomes of MEA using electrodes with single and three catalyst layers.This study measured Electrochemical Surface Area(ECSA),Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy(EIS),X-ray Diffraction analysis(XRD),and X-ray Fluorescence(XRF).Furthermore,the round-trip efficiency(RTE)of the MEA,as w ell as the performance in FC and WE mode,was measured.In comparison,The ECSA values of Pt-Ru/C and Pt/C with three catalyst layers were higher than the single catalyst layer.This result was supported by electrode characterization data for XRD and XRF.The respective electrical conductivity values of Pt-Ru/C and Pt/C with three catalyst layers are also higher than the single cata-lyst layer,and the performance of URFC using MEA with three catalyst layers has the highest value of RTE among the MEA performances of URFC,which is 100%at a current density of 4 mA·cm-2.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea,Nos.2021R1A2C2006110,2021M3E5D9021364,2019R1A5A2026045(to BGK)the Korea Initiative for Fostering University of Research and Innovation(KIURI)Program of the NRF funded by the MSIT(to HK),No.NRF2021M3H1A104892211(to HSK)。
文摘Spinal cord injury results in permanent loss of neurological functions due to severance of neural networks.Transplantation of neural stem cells holds promise to repair disrupted connections.Yet,ensuring the survival and integration of neural stem cells into the host neural circuit remains a formidable challenge.Here,we investigated whether modifying the intrinsic properties of neural stem cells could enhance their integration post-transplantation.We focused on phosphatase and tensin homolog(PTEN),a well-characterized tumor suppressor known to critically regulate neuronal survival and axonal regeneration.By deleting Pten in mouse neural stem cells,we observed increased neurite outgrowth and enhanced resistance to neurotoxic environments in culture.Upon transplantation into injured spinal cords,Pten-deficient neural stem cells exhibited higher survival and more extensive rostrocaudal distribution.To examine the potential influence of partial PTEN suppression,rat neural stem cells were treated with short hairpin RNA targeting PTEN,and the PTEN knockdown resulted in significant improvements in neurite growth,survival,and neurosphere motility in vitro.Transplantation of sh PTEN-treated neural stem cells into the injured spinal cord also led to an increase in graft survival and migration to an extent similar to that of complete deletion.Moreover,PTEN suppression facilitated neurite elongation from NSC-derived neurons migrating from the lesion epicenter.These findings suggest that modifying intrinsic signaling pathways,such as PTEN,within neural stem cells could bolster their therapeutic efficacy,offering potential avenues for future regenerative strategies for spinal cord injury.
文摘Primary liver cancer(PLC)is a prevalent malignancy with high incidence and mortality rates globally.Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),primarily resulting from hepatitis B virus infections in Asia,constitutes most PLC cases.Despite advancements in targeted therapies and localized treatments,the 5-year survival rate remains low,indicating limited efficacy of current approaches.The advent of immunotherapy,particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs),has brought new hope for patients with PLC.However,the liver's unique immune microenvironment presents significant challenges to the effectiveness of immunotherapy in HCC.This article reviews recent research developments in liver cancer immunotherapy,focusing on ICIs,combination therapies,emerging treatments,and prospective future directions.
基金support from the Office of Polar Programs of the National Science Foundation(Grant Nos.2205398,2233182,1951720,1951603,2301362).
文摘The 19th Workshop on Antarctic Meteorology and Climate(WAMC)and the 8th Year of Polar Prediction in the Southern Hemisphere(YOPP-SH)meeting were held in June 2024 at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center,The Ohio State University,Columbus,Ohio.These hybrid events convened 79 participants from 15 nations to foster international collaboration on Antarctic meteorology,climate research,and forecasting.The WAMC featured presentations on automatic weather stations,numerical weather prediction,Antarctic sea ice dynamics,and extreme weather events.The YOPP-SH meeting emphasized the positive impacts of enhanced observations during the 2022 Winter Special Observing Period(SOP)on forecast accuracy and addressed the transition toward the Polar Coupled Analysis and Prediction for Services(PCAPS)initiative.The outcomes reflect significant advancements in polar meteorological research and underscore the importance of sustained collaborative efforts,including improved observational networks and advanced modeling systems,to address the unique challenges of Antarctic meteorology.Future workshops will continue to support and expand upon these critical themes.
基金supported by Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(GJHZ20240218114715029)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31972163)+2 种基金Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2023A1515010005)Special funds for universities in Guangdong Province in the key areas of biomedicine and health(2023ZDZX2025)the Innovative Team Program of High Education of Guangdong Province(2021KCXTD021)。
文摘Arsenic,a known environmental carcinogen,disrupts intestinal homeostasis,posing a significant threat to human health.Mitigating its toxic effects is crucial,and this study explores the potential of swim bladder sulfated glycosaminoglycan(SBSG)in achieving this.Our previous in vitro studies have shown that SBSG to ameliorate arsenic-induced damage in intestinal epithelial cells,but its in vivo effects remain elusive.The current investigation demonstrates that SBSG exhibits a beneficial prebiotic action in vivo,regulating gut microbiota,metabolites,and intestinal barrier function to counter arsenic's adverse effects.Specifically,SBSG regulates microbiota composition,suppressing pathogenic species like Alistipes and Candidatus_Saccharimonas while promoting beneficial ones such as Ruminococcus and Akkermansia.In the colon,SBSG fermentation enhances the production of short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs),leading to the upregulation of GPR43,GPR109A,and Olfr78 receptors.Additionally,SBSG strengthens the intestinal barrier by increasing the expression of Claudin-1,Occludin,and ZO-1,and enhances mucin gene expression(MUC-1 and MUC-2)to address chemical barrier disruptions.Immunologically,SBSG modulates the RORγt/Foxp3 pathway and the TLR4/My D88/NF-κB signaling cascade,regulating the immune barrier.These findings suggest that SBSG could be a promising prebiotic candidate for maintaining intestinal health and may serve as a dietary supplement or adjunct in heavy metal detoxification therapies.
文摘BACKGROUND Liver imaging and transient elastography(TE)are both tools used to assess liver fibrosis and steatosis among people with hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection.However,the diagnostic accuracy of conventional imaging in detecting fibrosis and steatosis in this patient population remains unclear.AIM To investigate the correlation between steatosis and fibrosis and abnormal findings on liver imaging in patients with HCV.METHODS We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients with HCV at Grady Liver Clinic who had TE exams between 2018-2019.We analyzed the correlation of controlled attenuation parameter and liver stiffness measurement on TE and abnormal findings on liver imaging.Liver imaging findings(hepatic steatosis,increased echogenicity,cirrhosis,and chronic liver disease)were further evaluated for their diagnostic performance in detecting fibrosis(≥F2,≥F3,≥F4)and steatosis(≥S1,≥S2,≥S3).RESULTS Of 959 HCV patients who underwent TE,651 had liver imaging.Higher controlled attenuation parameter scores were observed in patients with abnormal liver findings(P=0.0050),hepatic steatosis(P<0.0001),and increased echogenicity(P<0.0001).Higher liver stiffness measurement values were also noted in those with abnormal liver(P<0.0001)and increased echogenicity(P=0.0026).Steatosis severity correlated with hepatic steatosis(r=0.195,P<0.001)and increased echogenicity(r=0.209,P<0.001).For fibrosis detection,abnormal liver imaging had moderate sensitivity(81.7%)and specificity(70.4%)for cirrhosis(≥F4),while cirrhosis on imaging had high specificity(99.2%)but low sensitivity(18.3%).Increased echogenicity showed high specificity(92.8%)but low sensitivity(20.9%)for steatosis detection.CONCLUSION Liver imaging detects advanced fibrosis and steatosis but lacks early-stage sensitivity.Integrating TE with imaging may improve evaluation in patients with HCV.
基金the financial support from the Ministry of Education,Culture,Research and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia under the Applied Research award(DIPA023.17.1.690523/2023)the World Class Professor award grant 2023。
文摘The unique properties of TiO_(2)-sulfur(TiO_(2)-S)modified graphene nanocomposite electrode(GPE/TiO_(2)-S)in the electrochemical sensing of formaldehyde compound has been evaluated.We prepared TiO_(2)-S by hydrothermal method and modified the graphene nanocomposite electrode by applying electrochemical cyclic voltammetry(CV)approach.The TiO_(2)-S nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),while the GPE/TiO_(2)-S was examined by scanning electron microscopy(FESEM)and X-Ray fluorosense(XRF)techniques.TiO_(2)-S has a grain size of 19.32 nm.The surface morphology of the GPE/TiO_(2)-S nanocomposite shows a good,intact,and tightly porous structure with TiO_(2)-S covers the graphene surface.The content of optimized GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrodes is 41.5%of graphene,37.8%of TiO_(2),and 12.4%of sulfur that was prepared by mixing 1 g of TiO_(2)-S with 0.5 g of graphene and 0.3 mL paraffin.The GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrode produces a high anodic current(I_(pa))of 800μA and a high cathodic current(I_(pc))of-600μA at a scan rate of 0.1 V·s^(-1)using an electrolyte0.01 mol·L^(-1)K_3[Fe(CN)_6]solution containing 150 mg·L^(-1)formaldehyde.The limit of detection can reach as low as 9.7 mg·L^(-1)with stability with Horwitz ratio value as low as 0.397.The composite electrode also exhibits excellent slectivity properties by showing clear formaldehyde sugnal in the presence of high concentration of interfering agent.GPE/TiO_(2)-S electrode should find potential application of formaldehyde detection in food industries.
基金the University of Cartagena for funding through the Strengthening Project Acta 048-2023.
文摘The extensive use of polymeric materials in single-use packaging has driven the need to develop biodegradable alternatives.This study investigates the incorporation of graphene oxide(GO)and Moringa oleifera seed oil(MOSO)into a gelatin matrix to create polymer films and evaluate their potential as active packaging materials.The properties of these films were evaluated using structural,thermal,mechanical,optical,and physicochemical methods to determine their suitability for food packaging applications.The results showed that GO and MOSO were homogeneously dispersed in the gelatin matrix,forming colloidal particles(around 5μm in diameter).The addition of GO increased opacity by approximately 20 times the base value while MOSO affected light transmittance without impacting opacity.Mechanical properties were affected differently,GO acted as a crosslinking agent reducing elongation and increasing tensile strength at break,on the other hand MOSO acted as a plasticizer,making films more plastic increasing elongation a 30%.These effects counteracted each other,and similar behavior was recorded in differential scanning calorimetry.The films exhibited an improved water vapor resistance,which is crucial for food packaging.These findings indicate that the incorporation of GO and MOSO into a gelatin matrix may produce biodegradable polymer films with enhanced properties,suitable for active packaging in the food industry.
基金funding provided by The Science,Technology&Innovation Funding Authority(STDF)in cooperation with The Egyptian Knowledge Bank(EKB).
文摘Ulcerative colitis(UC)is an inflammatory condition of the intestine,resulting from an increase in oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators.In this study,the extract of endophytic bacterium Rhizobium aegyptiacum was prepared for the first time using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(LC-MS).In addition,also for the first time,the protective potential of R.aegyptiacum was revealed using an in vivo rat model of UC.The animals were grouped into four categories:normal control(groupⅠ),R.aegyptiacum(groupⅡ),acetic acid(AA)-induced UC(groupⅢ),and R.aegyptiacum-treated AA-induced UC(groupⅣ).In groupⅣ,R.aegyptiacum was administered at 0.2 mg/kg daily for one week before and two weeks after the induction of UC.After sacrificing the rats on the last day of the experiment,colon tissues were collected and subjected to histological,immunohistochemical,and biochemical investigations.There was a remarkable improvement in the histological findings of the colon tissues in groupⅣ,as revealed by hematoxylin and eosin(H&E)staining,Masson's trichrome staining,and periodic acid-Schiff(PAS)staining.Normal mucosal surfaces covered with a straight,intact,and thin brush border were revealed.Goblet cells appeared magenta in color,and there was a significant decrease in the distribution of collagen fibers in the mucosa and submucosal connective tissues.All these findings were comparable to the respective characteristics of the control group.Regarding cyclooxygenase-2(COX-2)immunostaining,a weak immune reaction was shown in most cells.Moreover,the colon tissues were examined using a scanning electron microscope,which confirmed the results of histological assessment.A regular polygonal unit pattern was seen with crypt orifices of different sizes and numerous goblet cells.Furthermore,the levels of catalase(CAT),myeloperoxidase(MPO),nitric oxide(NO),interleukin-6(IL-6),and interlukin-1β(IL-1β)were determined in the colonic tissues of the different groups using colorimetric assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).In comparison with groupⅢ,groupⅣexhibited a significant rise(P<0.05)in the CAT level but a substantial decline(P<0.05)in the NO,MPO,and inflammatory cytokine(IL-6 and IL-1β)levels.Based on reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR),the tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)gene expression was upregulated in groupⅢ,which was significantly downregulated(P<0.05)by treatment with R.aegyptiacum in groupⅣ.On the contrary,the heme oxygenase-1(HO-1)gene was substantially upregulated in groupⅣ.Our findings imply that the oral consumption of R.aegyptiacum ameliorates AA-induced UC in rats by restoring and reestablishing the mucosal integrity,in addition to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.Accordingly,R.aegyptiacum is potentially effective and beneficial in human UC therapy,which needs to be further investigated in future work.
文摘Surgical repair has been the standard therapy for severe mitral regurgitation causing symptoms or left ventricular dysfunction.Percutaneous mitral valve repair has become an appealing alternative approach for patients who are not suitable for surgery.However,clinical trial data are not available on the institutional impact of a percutaneous mitral valve repair program on mitral valve surgery.The current study retrospectively evaluated the impact of the MitraClip program on the mitral valve surgery volume and outcomes.Patient data were retrieved from the 2 years before and the 2 years after initiation of the MitraClip program.The volume of MitraClip procedures increased from eight cases in 2015 to 91 cases in 2017.Since the initiation of the MitraClip program in 2015,the volume of both mitral valve replacement and mitral valve repair also increased(43 vs.60 and 110 vs.154,respectively).Importantly,we observed improved surgical outcomes,including fewer perioperative complications and lower operative mortality and in-hospital mortality.Data from our single-institution experience indicate that the introduction of the MitraClip program is associated with increased mitral valve surgery volume and improved outcomes.The establishment of the MitraClip program enables the hospital to provide higher quality of care and potentially become a referring center for structural heart patients.
基金supported by the Robert Campeau Family Foundation/Dr.C.H.Tator Chair in Brain and Spinal Cord Research(to MGF)。
文摘Spinal cord injury can be traumatic or non-traumatic in origin,with the latter rising in incidence and prevalence with the aging demographics of our society.Moreove r,as the global population ages,individuals with co-existent degenerative spinal pathology comprise a growing number of traumatic spinal cord injury cases,especially involving the cervical spinal cord.This makes recovery and treatment approaches particula rly challenging as age and comorbidities may limit regenerative capacity.For these reasons,it is critical to better understand the complex milieu of spinal cord injury lesion pathobiology and the ensuing inflammatory response.This review discusses microglia-specific purinergic and cytokine signaling pathways,as well as microglial modulation of synaptic stability and plasticity after injury.Further,we evaluate the role of astrocytes in neurotransmission and calcium signaling,as well as their border-forming response to neural lesions.Both the inflammatory and reparative roles of these cells have eluded our complete understanding and remain key therapeutic targets due to their extensive structural and functional roles in the nervous system.Recent advances have shed light on the roles of glia in neurotransmission and reparative injury responses that will change how interventions are directed.Understanding key processes and existing knowledge gaps will allow future research to effectively target these cells and harness their regenerative potential.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of the Republic of Korea 2018R1D1A3B07047960the Soonchunhyang University Research Fund(to SSY).
文摘Diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are defined by inflammation and the damage neurons undergo due to oxidative stress. A primary reactive oxygen species contributor in the central nervous system, NADPH oxidase 4, is viewed as a potential therapeutic touchstone and indicative marker for these ailments. This in-depth review brings to light distinct features of NADPH oxidase 4, responsible for generating superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, emphasizing its pivotal role in activating glial cells, inciting inflammation, and disturbing neuronal functions. Significantly, malfunctioning astrocytes, forming the majority in the central nervous system, play a part in advancing neurodegenerative diseases, due to their reactive oxygen species and inflammatory factor secretion. Our study reveals that aiming at NADPH oxidase 4 within astrocytes could be a viable treatment pathway to reduce oxidative damage and halt neurodegenerative processes. Adjusting NADPH oxidase 4 activity might influence the neuroinflammatory cytokine levels, including myeloperoxidase and osteopontin, offering better prospects for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. This review sheds light on the role of NADPH oxidase 4 in neural degeneration, emphasizing its drug target potential, and paving the path for novel treatment approaches to combat these severe conditions.
基金supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT in Korea(2021R1A2C2009459)X-ray absorption spectra were obtained from Pohang Accelerator Laboratory(PAL)10C beamlinesupported by the US Department of Energy,Office of Science,Office of Advanced Scientific Computing Research,and Scientific Discovery through Advanced Computing(SciDAC)program under Award Number DE-SC0022209.
文摘Systematic optimization of the photocatalyst and investigation of the role of each component is important to maximizing catalytic activity and comprehending the photocatalytic conversion of CO_(2) reduction to solar fuels.A surface-modified Ag@Ru-P25 photocatalyst with H_(2)O_(2) treatment was designed in this study to convert CO_(2) and H_(2)O vapor into highly selective CH4.Ru doping followed by Ag nanoparticles(NPs)cocatalyst deposition on P25(TiO_(2))enhances visible light absorption and charge separation,whereas H_(2)O_(2) treatment modifies the surface of the photocatalyst with hydroxyl(–OH)groups and promotes CO_(2) adsorption.High-resonance transmission electron microscopy,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy,X-ray absorption near-edge structure,and extended X-ray absorption fine structure techniques were used to analyze the surface and chemical composition of the photocatalyst,while thermogravimetric analysis,CO_(2) adsorption isotherm,and temperature programmed desorption study were performed to examine the significance of H_(2)O_(2) treatment in increasing CO_(2) reduction activity.The optimized Ag1.0@Ru1.0-P25 photocatalyst performed excellent CO_(2) reduction activity into CO,CH4,and C2H6 with a~95%selectivity of CH4,where the activity was~135 times higher than that of pristine TiO_(2)(P25).For the first time,this work explored the effect of H_(2)O_(2) treatment on the photocatalyst that dramatically increases CO_(2) reduction activity.
