<rss version='2.0'>

                    <channel>

                    <title><![CDATA[Arterial Occlusive Diseases]]></title>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

                    <description>

                    RSS Feed for Disease Wise Article | BenthamScience

                    </description>

                    <generator>EurekaSelect (+http://eurekaselect.com)</generator>

                    <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:12:37 +0000</pubDate>

                    <image>

                    <title><![CDATA[Arterial Occlusive Diseases]]></title>

                    <url>https://www.benthamscience.com</url>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com</link>

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[Tertiary Hyperparathyroidism and Extra Skeletal Calcification in End Stage
Kidney Disease Patients: Case-series and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135967</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Tertiary hyperparathyroidism (THPT) is a well-known complication of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), resulting from a loss of functional renal tissue with subsequent alterations in calcium and phosphate metabolism. Tertiary hyperparathyroidism reflects severe parathyroid hyperplasia with autonomous excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) that is no longer responsive to the concentration of plasma calcium and leads to abnormal bone remodelling, soft tissue calcifications, vasculopathy, and other systemic complications. <p> Case Presentation: The authors, hereby, highlight varied presentations of tertiary hyperparathyroidism (THPT) by presenting 3 interesting cases, describing their clinical course and outcomes. Through sharing these experiences and insights, we hope to contribute to a better understanding of THPT and its optimal management in patients with ESKD. <p> Conclusion: THPT can have a significant impact on patient health and quality of life. Despite the widespread use of interventions, such as vitamin D analogues, calcimimetics and parathyroidectomy, THPT remains a significant clinical challenge for patients with ESKD.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Congenital Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Presentation, Etiology, Diagnosis and
Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139402</link><description><![CDATA[Aortic aneurysms are common in adults due to atherosclerosis but are rare in children and young adults, often overlooked due to infrequent reporting. Acquired aneurysms are usually linked to factors like umbilical artery ligation, connective tissue diseases, or vasculitides. In contrast, the causes of congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) remain unknown due to their extreme rarity. Only a few cases have been reported. Prompt diagnosis is essential when symptoms such as abdominal distention, vomiting, or abdominal pulsatility occur. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through ultrasonography and multi-slice spiral computed tomography angiographies (MCSTA). After detection, a comprehensive investigation is necessary to rule out acquired AAA causes. Managing congenital AAA requires a highly personalized approach, with early surgical repair using grafts as a recommended option. After an extensive analysis of numerous academic sources, we have comprehensively understood the epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnostic and treatment techniques for congenital abdominal aortic aneurysms.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Molecular Pathways and Treatment Updates on Huntington’s Disease with
Special Preference to Juvenile Phase: A Comprehensive Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139800</link><description><![CDATA[A degenerative brain ailment called Huntington's disease (HTD) causes irritable behavior, emotional distress, cognition, etc. It is also known as Huntington's chorea. Compared to men, women are more likely to get HTD. However, in India, if 3 to 5% of Europeans are affected, it is difficult to estimate the disease's prevalence. The full pathophysiological status, several molecular pathways, and pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological treatments for Huntington's disease are covered in this article. Google, PubMed, Scopus, Bentham, Elsevier, and other significant web resources were used to gather the scientific data. Moreover, this review article may serve as the foundation for future study, particularly on Huntington's illness.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Post-coronary Artery Bypass Graft Complications; Potential Causes and Risk
Factors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130806</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide despite the coexistence of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Current emergency management involves revascularization of the coronary arteries. <P> Aims: Retrospectively evaluate the association between the used number of shunts and postoperative complications. <P> Objectives: Several complications are reported after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, such as postoperative arrhythmia and postoperative stroke. However, the risk factors for the development remain not elaborated. <P> Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study involved 290 patients for the period 2017-2021 treated surgically for ischemic heart disease. The surgery includes shunts of the internal thoracic arteries with the post-occlusion coronary arteries. The number of shunts is varied depending on the size and number of occluded arteries. According to the number of shunts, the patient may be operated on with artificial circulation (CPB; cardiopulmonary bypass), or without a working heart (OFF pump; without artificial circulation. For statistical analysis, T-test, one-way ANOVA test, X2 test, COX proportional hazards, and Pearson correlation test were used by using the Statistica program. <P> Results: The most frequently reported complication is postoperative hydrothorax, in 28 (11.20%) patients. Patients with post-CABG LV aneurysm had a longer CPB time and aortic cross-clamp time, t-value -5.58113, p &#60; 0.000000; t-value -4.72802, p &#60; 0.000004, respectively. Patients with postoperative hydrothorax with low BMI and longer CPB and Aortic cross-clamp time, t-value of-2.33929, p &#60;0.020021; t-value 3.83233, P &#60; 0.000157; t-value 2.71109, p &#60; 0.007119, respectively. Subsequently, post-operative hydrothorax increases the intensive care unit (ICU) and total hospitalization days, t-value 5.80811, p &#60; 0.000000; t-value 7.37431, p &#60; 0.000000, respectively. Patients who have preoperative progressive angina have a higher number of complications, t-value of 2.108504, p &#60; 0.035866. Post-myocardial infarction patients with myocardial sclerosis (PMIMS) have a higher number of complications, t value of 2.516784, p &#60; 0.012396. A direct correlation between the number of complications and age/CPB time/ aortic cross-clamp time/ICU hospitalization days/total hospitalization days, r= 0.138565, 0.204061, 0.162078, 0.487048, 0.408381; respectively. <P> Conclusion: Postoperative complication rate associated with the pre-existence of progressive angina and PMIMS. Elderly people undergoing CABG are at higher risk of psychosis, arrhythmia, longer total and ICU hospitalization days, and stroke. Advanced age, longed CPB time, prolonged aortic cross-clamp time, long ICU hospitalisation, and long total hospitalization days are risks of more frequent post-CABG complications. <P> Others: The number of complications is not associated with the dead and alive status of patients or with the number of shunts.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Effect of Fingolimod on Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in a Rat Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134058</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a leading cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) that induces inflammation and oxidative stress. The main goal of the current study was to assess the impact of fingolimod on kidney IRI in rats. <p> Methods: For this purpose, 18 male Wistar rats (220–250g) were divided into three groups including (i) Sham, (ii) I/R, and (iii) fingolimod+I/R. The last group was pretreated with a single dose of fingolimod (1mg/kg) (intraperitoneal injection) before induction of the I/R injury. Kidney function, oxidative stress marker (malondialdehyde), and antioxidant markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity) were determined in the kidney tissue of the rats. Moreover, kidney samples were taken for histological analysis. <p> Results: Fingolimod pre-treatment could significantly improve the glutathione peroxidase (p&#60;0.01) and glutathione (p&#60;0.001) activities along with the total antioxidant capacity levels (p&#60;0.001) when compared to the I/R group. Moreover, significant recovery of kidney function and histology was seen in the fingolimod+ I/R group compared to the I/R group (p&#60;0.01). <p> Conclusion: Fingolimod pretreatment could improve renal function, antioxidant capacity, and histological alterations after I/R injury. Hence, it might protect the kidney against IRI-related kidney damage including AKI and transplantation.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Anticancer Properties of Baicalin against Breast Cancer and other
Gynecological Cancers: Therapeutic Opportunities based on Underlying
Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138003</link><description><![CDATA[Gynecological cancers are serious life-threatening diseases responsible for high morbidity and mortality around the world. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery are considered standard therapeutic modalities for these cancers. Since the mentioned treatments have undesirable side effects and are not effective enough, further attempts are required to explore potent complementary and/or alternative treatments. This study was designed to review and discuss the anticancer potentials of baicalin against gynecological cancers based on causal mechanisms and underlying pathways. Traditional medicine has been used for thousands of years in the therapy of diverse human diseases. The therapeutic effects of natural compounds like baicalin have been widely investigated in cancer therapy. Baicalin was effective against gynecological cancers by regulating key cellular mechanisms, including apoptosis, autophagy, and angiogenesis. Baicalin exerted its anticancer property by regulating most molecular signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF&#954;B, MAPK/ERK, and Wnt/&#946;-catenin. However, more numerous experimental and clinical studies should be designed to find the efficacy of baicalin and the related mechanisms of action.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hepatic Ischemia-reperfusion Injury: Protective Approaches and Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133359</link><description><![CDATA[Ischemia and reperfusion damage to the liver is one of the major causes of hepatic dysfunction and liver failure after a liver transplant. The start of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion damage is linked to metabolic acidosis, Kupffer cells, neutrophils, excessive calcium, and changes in the permeability of the mitochondrial membrane. Hypoxia activates Kupffer cells, resulting in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS when accumulated, causes apoptosis and necrosis, as well as activate immune and inflammatory responses that involve many cells and signalling molecules. Numerous antioxidant compounds have been researched to lessen oxidative stress and thus serve as potential compounds to deal the ischemia-reperfusion damage. This article confers a deep understanding of the protective effects of some effective therapies, including hepatoprotective agents, attenuation of an increase in xanthine oxidase activity, and administration of antioxidants like N-acetylcysteine, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ornithine.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nrf2 Mediates Effect of Resveratrol in Ischemia-reperfusion Injury]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138158</link><description><![CDATA[Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is a paradoxical phenomenon where removing the source of injury can cause additional damage. Ischemia reduces ATP production and intracellular pH, reducing oxidative reactions, increasing lactic acid release, and activating anaerobic metabolism. Reperfusion restores aerobic respiration and increases ROS production, leading to malfunction of transmembrane transport, activation of proteases, DNA dissolution, and protein denaturation, leading to apoptotic cell death. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates cellular inflammation and oxidative responses. It is activated by oxidants and electrophiles and enhances detoxifying enzyme expression, maintaining redox homeostasis. It also activates ARE, which activates several ARE-regulated genes that favor cell survival by exhibiting resistance to oxidants and electrophiles. Nrf2 regulates the antioxidant defense system by producing phase II and antioxidant defense enzymes, including HO-1, NQO-1, gglutamylcysteine synthetase, and rate-limiting enzymes for glutathione synthesis. Nrf2 protects mitochondria from damage and supports mitochondrial function in stress conditions. Resveratrol is a stilbene-based compound with a wide variety of health benefits for humans, including antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antitumor, and estrogenic/antiestrogenic. Resveratrol protects against IRI through several signaling pathways, including the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Here, we review the studies that investigated the mechanisms of resveratrol protection against IRI through modulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research Progress of Selective Laser Melting Forming Medical Implants]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135733</link><description><![CDATA[Selective laser melting technology has the advantages of rapid manufacture, high precision, and the ability to produce fine structures. Medical implants made using selective laser melting technology have high precision and excellent mechanical properties that meet the needs of patients and make medical implants more promising in the medical field. This paper reviews the progress of research on selective laser melting of medical implants. This paper draws on numerous journals and patents. This paper firstly reviews the classification of medical implants, mainly including hip implants, knee implants, maxillo-craniofacial implants and spinal implants. Secondly, the common porous structure design methods, the effect of porous structure on the mechanical properties of the implant, and the effect of pore structure on the growth properties of porous titanium alloy bone are summarised. Finally, the process of manufacturing titanium alloy implants by selective laser melting technology is described. Medical implants made by selective laser melting have excellent properties and are widely used in the medical field. Compared to traditional mechanical processing methods, selective laser melting technology can better preserve the properties of the raw material, while providing higher precision and faster preparation. However, selective laser melting has a number of drawbacks, including differences in material microstructure, reduced strength and plasticity, inadequate surface treatment, and enhanced safety and reliability. Further scientific research and technological innovation are needed to solve these problems. In the future, as technology continues to innovate and develop, SLM technology will become more mature, resulting in implants that are more natural, suitable for the body and long-lasting. At the same time, as implants are personalised, there will be a huge market demand and development opportunities. In addition, the continuous improvement of regulatory policies is expected to further promote the market development and application of medical implants.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Internal Carotid Artery Dissecting Aneurysm Associated with Persistent
Trigeminal Artery: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138462</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) is the most common vascular anastomosis between the carotid artery and vertebrobasilar systems. We report a very rare case of dissecting aneurysm in the right internal carotid artery (ICA) with ipsilateral PTA and discuss its clinical importance. <p> Case Report: A 38-year-old male presented to the emergency department with paroxysmal dysphasia for 6h. Brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed acute cerebral infarction of the right corona radiata and right parietal lobe. Three-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography (3D TOF MRA) revealed severe stenosis of the petrous segment (C1 portion) of the right internal carotid artery and a PTA originating from the right ICA cavernous segment (C4 portion), with a length of approximately 1.8cm and a diameter of approximately 0.2cm. The ICA segments are all named according to the Bouthilier classification. The basilar artery (BA) under union was well developed. The bilateral posterior communicating arteries were also present. One day later, the high-resolution vessel-wall MR demonstrated a dissecting aneurysm in the C1 portion of the right ICA. The length of the dissecting aneurysm is approximately 4.4cm, the diameter of the true lumen at the most severe stenosis is approximately 0.2cm, and the diameter of the false lumen is approximately 0.8cm. Subsequent digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed a dissecting aneurysm in the C1 portion of the right ICA. The patient was treated conservatively and did not undergo interventional surgery. Four months later, head and neck MRA showed that the right ICA blood flow was smooth and that the dissecting aneurysm had disappeared. <p> The Ethics Committee of Liaocheng People’s Hospital approved the research protocol in compliance with the Helsinki Declaration. Written informed consent was obtained from the individual for the publication of any potentially identifiable images or data included in this article. <p> Conclusion: Flow alteration with PTA may have influenced the formation of ICA dissection in this patient. Awareness of this is crucial in clinical practice because it can influence treatment options and intervention procedures.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Emergent Endovascular Treatment of Iatrogenous Pseudoaneurysms of the
Neck Following Jugular Catheterization]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132700</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Inadvertent puncture of the adjacent structures during a central venous catheterization is a well-known complication which may be managed conservatively when the injury is self-limiting, but requires a further treatment when there’s a proof of an active bleeding and/or a growing hematoma. <P> Case Representation: We report a case of a 57-year-old bone-marrow-transplant patient with neck hematoma and bleeding followed by a non-sonographic-guided central venous line placement. CT showed a right sided hematoma in the neck region with a midline shift of the airway. The patient was under prophylactic LMWH. Emergent angiography demonstrated three different bleeding sites which were successfully embolized with coil and liquid embolic agents by endovascular means. <P> Conclusion: Interventional radiology offers a quick and safe approach in the management of potentially life-threatening bleeding complications.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Coronary Cameral Fistula Disclosed by Echocardiography: A Case Report of
Typical Findings and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130157</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Coronary cameral fistula is a rare cardiovascular anomaly, and usually needs advanced image modalities, such as computerized tomography and/or angiography, to confirm its existence. A few reports in the literature have addressed the role of medical ultrasound in the diagnosis of this disease, without a comprehensive summary of all the valuable echocardiographic features in its diagnosis. <p> Case Presentation: Hereby, we presented an 80-year-old lady with exertional dyspnea and angina. We diagnosed coronary cameral fistula from the left anterior descending artery into the left ventricle by echocardiography with “intramyocardial vascular channel and the diastolic flow”, and “multiple diastolic flow jets into heart chamber from heart wall”. We confirmed the diagnosis with coronary angiography later. In the discussion, we make a comprehensive summary to conclude all the echocardiographic findings of this disease into 3 categories. <p> Conclusion: We believe the identification of those findings will prompt the early diagnosis of this rare anomaly.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Role of Carotid Ultrasonography Combined with Monocyte/HDL Ratio in
Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139851</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Carotid duplex ultrasonography (DUS) is the primary screening tool for carotid artery stenosis, but has low reliability. MHR, which is the ratio of monocytes to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), can be a marker for the degree and distribution of extracranial and intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis. <p> Objective: We determined the diagnostic value of DUS+MHR for internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis. <p> Methods: We divided 273 hospitalized patients into non-stenosis (<50%) and ICA stenosis (≥50%) groups based on Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA). We determined the peak systolic velocity (PSV) in the ICA on DUS, calculated the MHR, and investigated their relationship with ICA stenosis. <p> Results: On DSA, 34.1% (93/273) patients had moderate-to-severe ICA stenosis. DUS and DSA showed low concordance for detecting ICA stenosis (kappa = 0.390). With increasing age, the incidence of moderate-to-severe ICA stenosis increased. PSV, monocyte count, and MHR were significantly greater in the stenosis group than in the non-stenosis group (P < 0.001), while the HDL-C level was significantly lower (P = 0.001). PSV (OR: 1.020, 95% CI: 1.011–1.029, P &#60; 0.001) and MHR (OR: 5.662, 95% CI: 1.945–16.482, P = 0.002) were independent risk factors for ICA stenosis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of PSV+MHR (0.819) was significantly higher than that of PSV or MHR alone (77.42% sensitivity, P = 0.0207; 73.89% specificity, P = 0.0032). <p> Conclusion: The combination of ICA PSV on DUS and MHR is better than PSV alone at identifying ICA stenosis and is well-suited to screen high-risk patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Development and Validation of an Algorithm Model for Predicting Heat Sink
Effects during Pulmonary Thermal Ablation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136383</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aims: The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm model to predict the heat sink effect during thermal ablation of lung tumors and to assist doctors in the formulation and adjustment of surgical protocols. <p> Background: The heat sink effect is an important factor affecting the therapeutic effect of tumor thermal ablation. At present, there is no algorithm model to predict the intraoperative heat sink effect automatically, which needs to be measured manually, which lacks accuracy and consumes time.<p> Objective: To construct a segmentation model based on a convolutional neural network that can automatically identify and segment pulmonary nodules and vascular structure and measure the distance between the nodule and vascular. <p> Methods: First, the classical Faster RCNN model was used as the nodule detection network. After obtaining the bounding box of pulmonary nodules, the VSPP-NET model was used to segment nodules in the bounding box. The distance from the nodule to the vasculature was measured after the surrounding vasculature was segmented by the VSPP-NET model. The lung CT images of 392 patients with pulmonary nodules were used as the training data for the algorithm. 68 cases were used as algorithm validation data, 29 as nodule algorithm test data, and 80 as vascular algorithm test data. We compared the heat sink effect of 29 cases of data with the results of the algorithm model and expert segmentation and compared the difference between the two results. <p> Results: In pulmonary CT image vasculature segmentation, the recall and precision of the algorithm model reached >0.88 and >0.78, respectively. The average time for automatic segmentation of each image model is 29 seconds, and the average time for manual segmentation is 158 seconds. The output image of the model shows that the results of nodule segmentation and nodule distance measurement are satisfactory. In terms of heat sink effect prediction, the positive rate of the algorithm group was 28.3%, and that of the expert group was 32.1%, with no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.687). <p> Conclusion: The algorithm model developed in this study shows good performance in predicting the heat sink effect during pulmonary thermal ablation. It can improve the speed and accuracy of nodule and vessel segmentation, save ablation planning time, reduce the interference of human factors, and provide more reference information for surgeons to make ablation plans to improve the ablation effect.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Evaluation of Coronary Artery Diffuse Calcification Stenosis by Corrected
Coronary Opacification Difference]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131990</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objectives: The artifacts produced by calcification on coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) have a great influence on the diagnosis of coronary stenosis. The purpose of this study is to investigate the value of corrected coronary opacification (CCO) difference in the diagnosis of stenosis in diffusely calcified coronary arteries (DCCAs). <P> Methods: A total of 84 patients were enrolled. The CCO difference across the diffuse calcification was measured through CCTA. Coronary arteries were grouped according to the extent of stenosis obtained by invasive coronary angiography (ICA). The Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare the CCO differences between different groups and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the CCO difference. <P> Results: Among the 84 patients, 58 patients had one DCCA, 14 patients had 2 DCCAs, and 12 patients had 3 DCCAs. A total of 122 coronary arteries were examined, 16 showed no significant stenosis, 42 had <70% stenosis, and 64 had 70-99% stenosis. The median CCO differences among the 3 groups were 0.064, 0.117, and 0.176, respectively. There were significant differences between the group without stenosis and the group with 70-99% stenosis (H = -3.581, P = 0.001), and between the group with <70% stenosis and the group with 70-99% stenosis (H = -2.430, P = 0.045). The area under the ROC curve was 0.681 and the optimal cut-off point was 0.292. Taking the ICA results as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of ≥70% coronary stenosis with a cut-off point of 0.292 were 84.4% and 44.8%, respectively. <P> Conclusion: CCO difference could be useful in the diagnosis of ≥70% severe coronary stenosis in DCCA. Through this non-invasive examination, the CCO difference could be a reference for clinical treatment.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Medical Image Processing based on Generative Adversarial Networks: A
Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135375</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have demonstrated superior data generation capabilities compared to other methods, making them popular for use in medical image applications. These features have intrigued researchers in the medical imaging field, resulting in a swift implementation of these techniques in various conventional and novel applications such as image reconstruction, segmentation, detection, classification, and cross-modality synthesis. A comprehensive review of recent medical imaging breakthroughs will benefit researchers interested in this field. In this review, we aimed to introduce the origin, principle, and extended forms of GANs and summarize the state-of-the-art progress of GAN-based medical image processing methods. <p> Methods: We searched the literature for studies on Google Scholar and PubMed using the keywords “Segmentation,” “Classification,” “medical image,” and “generative adversarial network.” Specifically, the initial search revealed 5423 publications after the removal of duplicated and non-accessible fulltext publications. Then, after the title and abstract screening, 680 underwent full-text screening. Finally, 121 studies were included in our final analysis after full-text screening. <p> Results: The date range of the studies covered in this review is from January 1, 2017, to the present. After a thorough screening and qualification assessment, 121 studies involving GAN-based applications in seven areas of medical images were included in the final methodological review. These areas included synthesis, classification, segmentation, conversion, reconstruction, denoising, and lesion detection. We further classified and summarized these papers into clinical applications, classification methods, and imaging modalities. <p> Conclusion: We thoroughly examined the latest research progress of GAN-based medical image augmentation. These techniques effectively alleviate the challenge of limited training samples for medical image diagnosis and treatment models. Furthermore, several critical issues associated with GANs, such as pattern collapse, instability, and lack of interpretability, require attention in future research.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Efficacy of Bronchial Artery Embolization for Clinically Suspected Bronchial
Dieulafoy’s Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135942</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The efficacy of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) for bronchial Dieulafoy’s disease (BDD) has not been well established. <p> Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of BAE in patients with clinically suspected BDD presenting with major hemoptysis, and to describe angiographic findings. <p> Methods: 17 patients (all men; mean age, 53.5 years) diagnosed with clinically suspected BDD by bronchoscopy (n = 7) or CT angiography (CTA) (n = 10) and who underwent BAE after directional and segmental localization of the target bronchus were enrolled. BAE was performed at the culprit bronchial artery traveling toward the target bronchus, regardless of the pathologic angiographic findings. Angiographic findings and clinical outcomes of BAE, including technical and clinical success, complication, recurrent hemoptysis, and follow-up imaging, were retrospectively reviewed. <p> Results: Representative angiographic findings included parenchymal hypervascularity prominent in the lobe where the BDD was located (82.4%), bronchial artery hypertrophy (70.6%), and contrast extravasation into the bleeding bronchus (17.6%). BAE was technically successful in all patients. All hemoptysis ceased within 24 h. No procedure-related complications occurred. During a mean follow-up of 491.9 days, 1 (6%) patient experienced recurrent hemoptysis. Follow-up bronchoscopy or CT performed in 10 (58.8%) patients showed the disappearance of pre-existing lesions (n = 9) or glue cast within the target bronchial artery (n = 1). <p> Conclusion: Bronchial angiography showed pathologic findings in most patients with clinically suspected BDD. BAE assisted by bronchoscopy or CTA localization is a safe and effective treatment for patients with clinically suspected BDD with excellent short- to mid-term results.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MDCT Imaging of Volvulus Complicated with Acute Mesenteric Ischemia
Secondary to a Large Diverticulum of Jejunum in an Adult: A Case Report and
Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133462</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: A large jejunal diverticulum has been reported as a possible cause of volvulus and acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) in adults. A large diverticulum of the small bowel complicated with volvulus has been reported before in literature. However, imaging findings of a large diverticulum of the small bowel complicated with both volvulus and AMI on MDCT are rarely described and reported. In this study, we reported a case with a large diverticulum, volvulus, and AMI concurrently; these three imaging findings were reviewed and described on MDCT, and the relevant literature was briefly introduced. <p> Case Report: We reported the case of a 69-year-old man who presented to our hospital with acute abdominal pain and vomiting. An emergent abdominal enhanced MDCT imaging was performed and demonstrated the volvulus secondary to a large diverticulum of the jejunum complicated with AMI. Here, a case was presented that highlighted unique imaging findings on MDCT, as well as a literature review. <p> Conclusion: A review of the literature revealed that a single jejunal diverticulum causing both volvulus and AMI is rare in adults. To our knowledge, a systemic description of their signs on MDCT in a case has not been reported yet.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Colour Doppler Sonography of the Ovarian Vein: Recognition and Associated
Lesions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139678</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of colour Doppler sonography for ovarian veins. The clinical incidence of ovarian venous lesions is relatively low and often overlooked. The ovarian veins are located deep in the pelvis, and they are relatively elongated, which could make medical imaging more difficult. Therefore, there is limited literature on the diagnosis of ovarian venous disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of colour Doppler sonography towards ovarian vein. <p> Methods: A total of 37 consecutive patients with clinically suspected ovarian venous disorders were included. All the patients underwent colour Doppler sonography. CTV was performed in 31 patients, while retrograde phlebography was performed in 6 patients. CT/phlebography was the established diagnostic criterion for ovarian vein disorders. The SPSS 22.0 program was used for statistical analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for colour Doppler sonography were calculated. k-test was used to evaluate consistency between colour Doppler sonography and CT/phlebography. <p> Results: In the 37 patients,18 cases were positive for ovarian vein disorders and 19 cases were negative, as assessed with colour Doppler sonography. The associated lesions included ovarian vein thrombosis (7 cases), ovarian varicocele (3 cases), and ovarian venous leiomyoma (8 cases). The calculated values of sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were 94.4%, 94.7%, 94.4%, and 94.7%, respectively. The overall accuracy rate was 94.9%. The K level of the degree of agreement between CT/phlebography and colour Doppler sonography was 0.892. <p> Conclusion: Colour doppler sonography can provide sufficient imaging information. In clinical ultrasonography, attention should be paid to recognizing and detecting ovarian venous lesions.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Digitalis Purpurea: Hope for Myocardial Infarction Induced by Obesity - A
Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136671</link><description><![CDATA[Digitalis purpurea L. belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. The most significant is digitoxin, a very toxic substance that builds up in the body and is impenetrable in water. For millennia, people have utilized the medication Digitalis to treat cardiac problems induced by obesity. External triggers like strenuous exercise, emotional stress, eating, exposure to extreme weather, sexual activity, coffee and alcohol consumption, and use of cocaine or marijuana temporarily increase the risk of having a myocardial infarction. A person's genetic makeup influences disease progression, the presence of chronic risk factors, and lifestyle choices. Despite various educational programs, the fight against obesity does not appear to be successful. According to WHO (World Health Organisation) statistics, 13 percent of adults over the age of 18 are obese, and 39 percent are overweight. Being overweight or obese significantly raises the chance of developing disorders, including coronary heart disease. Digitalis is primarily used to treat heart conditions. It encourages and stimulates the action of all muscle tissues in cases of clogged heart failure. The herb improves heart nutrient absorption by forcing more blood into the coronaries. Digitalis aids in the repair and regulation of the heart's function when blood circulation is hampered.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prediction of Microwave Ablation Recurrence in Pulmonary Malignancies
Using Preoperative Computed Tomography Radiomics Models]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138468</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Assessing the early efficacy of microwave ablation (MWA) for pulmonary malignancies is a challenge for interventionalists. However, performing an accurate efficacy assessment at an earlier stage can significantly enhance clinical intervention and improve the patient’s prognosis. <p> Purpose: This research aimed to create and assess non-invasive diagnostic techniques using pre-operative computed tomography (CT) radiomics models to predict the recurrence of MWA in pulmonary malignancies. <p> Materials and Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 116 eligible patients with pulmonary malignancies treated with MWA. we separated the patients into two groups: a recurrence group (n = 28) and a non-recurrence group (n = 88), following the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (m-RECIST) criteria. We segmented the preoperative tumor area manually. We expanded outward the tumor boundary 4 times, with a width of 3 mm, using the tumor boundary as the baseline. Five groups of radiomics features were extracted and screened using max-relevance and min-redundancy (mRMR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Weight coefficients of the aforementioned features were used to calculate the Radscore and construct radiomics models for both tumoral and peritumoral areas. The Radscore from the radiomics model was combined with clinical risk factors to construct a combined model. The performance and clinical usefulness of the combined models were assessed through the evaluation of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the Delong test, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) curves. <p> Results: The clinical risk factor for recurrence after MWA was tumor diameter (P < 0.05). Both tumoral and four peritumoral radiomics models exhibited high diagnostic efficacy. Furthermore, the combined 1 (C1)-RO model and the combined 2 (C2)-RO model showed higher efficacy with area under the curve (AUCs) of 0.89 and 0.89 in the training cohort, and 0.93 and 0.94 in the validation cohort, respectively. Both combined models demonstrated excellent predictive accuracy and clinical benefit. <p> Conclusion: Preoperative CT radiomics models for both tumoral and peritumoral regions are capable of accurately predicting the recurrence of pulmonary malignancies after MWA. The combination of both models may lead to better performance and may aid in devising more effective preoperative treatment strategies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Randomized Comparison of Transradial and Transfemoral Approach in
Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131699</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) has been popular for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are few reports comparing the transradial approach (TRA) and transfemoral approach (TFA) in HAIC. <P> Objective: This study aimed to compare the duration of the hepatic artery catheterization, fluoroscopy time (FT), radiation exposure, safety, and quality of life associated with the procedure in patients undergoing HAIC via TRA and TFA. <P> Methods: This prospective, single-center, randomized, controlled study included 120 patients with unresectable HCC undergoing HAIC procedures. Patients were randomly assigned to group A (n = 60, TRA-HAIC) or group B (n = 60, TFA-HAIC). The hepatic artery catheterization time, FT, entrance surface dose (ESD), dose area product (DAP), procedure-related complications, and quality of life associated with the procedure were assessed between the two groups. Independent-sample t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to assess differences. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. <P> Results: HAIC procedures were successfully performed in both groups. The hepatic artery catheterization time (19.35 ± 5.84 vs. 18.93 ± 5.62 minutes, P = 0.837), FT (2.35 ± 2.23 vs. 2.25 ± 2.16 minutes, P = 0.901), ESD (259.32 ± 167.46 vs. 250.56 ± 170.58 mGy, P = 0.449), and DAP (125.37 ± 60.65 vs. 120.56 ± 64.33 Gy.cm3, P = 0.566) were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of artery occlusion (10.0% vs. 0%, P < 0.001) in the TRA group was significantly higher than that in the TFA group. TRA was associated with a statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvement in the quality of life. <P> Conclusion: TRA to HAIC was associated with greater improvement in the quality of life associated with the procedure compared with TFA. Both approaches to HAIC had similar efficiency, safety, radiation exposure, and procedure duration.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Intrahepatic Pseudoaneurysm Developing at the Confluence of Bilateral Biliary
Drains Six Months Following a Procedure- A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135373</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Hepatic artery aneurysms (HAAs) exhibit a notable risk of rupture, with both true aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms being exceptionally uncommon (incidence rate approximately 2 per 100,000). Symptoms include epigastric and right upper quadrant pain, jaundice, and potentially life-threatening bleeding upon rupture. This bleeding can extend into the portal vein, hepatic vein, biliary system, or abdominal cavity. While existing literature lacks reports of delayed post-therapeutic complications, this case report discusses a 27-year-old female who developed a pseudoaneurysm six months after bilateral biliary drain insertion, underscoring the potential for delayed complications. <p> Case Presentation: The patient underwent gastric endoscopy revealing an extensive lower esophageal varix protruding into the proximal stomach, subsequently treated with banding. The stomach and duodenum were found to contain fresh blood and blood clots indicating acute bleeding. <p> An urgent CT scan identified active bleeding (extravasation) at segment V and blood accumulation at the confluence of the right and left biliary drains. This was followed by celiac and selective hepatic digital subtraction angiography (DSA). <p> Conclusion: This case study outlines the occurrence of a hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm six months after percutaneous insertion of bilateral biliary drains. The pseudoaneurysm manifested precisely at the confluence of the right and left drains. The reported delayed complication may have resulted from friction between the drains at the confluence or erosion of the adjacent artery by the drains. The insights gained from this case shed light on the causes and preventive measures for potential delayed complications associated with percutaneous biliary drain placement.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Application of Color Doppler Ultrasound to Evaluate and Analyze the Risk
Factors of Residual Stenosis after Vertebral Artery Origin Stenting]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134614</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Vertebral artery origin stenting (VAOS) is the mainstream method for the treatment of vertebral artery stenosis (VAS). However, there are few studies on the risk factors analysis for residual stenosis after VAOS. <p> Purpose: This study aimed to apply color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) to evaluate and analyze the risk factors of residual stenosis after VAOS. <p> Methods: About 178 patients with VAOS were included from 2017 to 2019 in Liuzhou worker’s hospital and divided into the residual stenosis group (n = 38) and the no-residual stenosis group (n = 140). The clinical data and hemodynamics alteration before and after VAOS were collected. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of residual stenosis. <p> Results: Compared with the no-residual stenosis group, the proportion of hypertension, the bending of the initial segment, and the residual stenosis length > 10 mm in the residual stenosis group were significantly higher, while the original internal diameter was significantly smaller (P &#60; 0.05). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the bending of initial segment (OR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.32-5.45, P = 0.033), the original internal diameter (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.13-5.66, P = 0.001), and the residual stenosis length > 10 mm were the risk factors of residual stenosis (OR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.82-5.85, P = 0.044). <p> Conclusion: The bending of initial segment, the original internal diameter, and the residual stenosis length > 10 mm were the risk factors of residual stenosis after VAOS.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Application of Computed Tomography Perfusion Imaging-guided Mechanical
Thrombectomy in Ischemic Stroke Patients with Large Vessel Occlusion beyond
the Therapeutic Time Window]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132389</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: To explore the feasibility of applying computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging-guided mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion beyond the therapeutic time window. <p> Methods: The clinical data of acute cerebral infarction patients with large vessel occlusion who were beyond the therapeutic time window and admitted to Handan Central Hospital from January 2021 to March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and were examined by one-stop CTP imaging. The preoperative onset time of the disease was more than 6 h. Fourteen patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging examination at the same time. Fifty-four patients were retrospectively divided into two groups based on the treatment methods: the mechanical thrombectomy group had 21 patients and the conservative treatment group had 33 patients. NIHSS scoring and computed tomography scan were performed before treatment, 6 h, 24 h, 7 days, and 30 days after treatment. <p> Results: The NIHSS scores of the patients with acute cerebral large vessel occlusion who underwent CTP imaging-guided mechanical thrombectomy at 6 h, 24 h, 7 days, and 30 days after treatment were compared with those of the conventional treatment group. The NIHSS score of the mechanical thrombectomy group was significantly better, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). In terms of the prognosis rate and expansion rate of infarct core volume, the patients of the mechanical thrombectomy group had a better prognosis, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Artificial intelligence-assisted CTP diagnosis can facilitate the automatic evaluation of diseases and enable quick judgments that are independent of radiologists’ evaluation, but it may pose a problem in the determination of infarct core volume (either being too high or too low). <p> Conclusion: It is of great significance to apply CTP imaging in guiding the mechanical thrombectomy procedure in acute stroke patients with large vessel occlusion who are beyond the therapeutic time window.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transfersomes: Recent Advances, Mechanisms, Exhaustive Applications, Clinical Trials, and Patents]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138652</link><description><![CDATA[A feasible nano transdermal delivery system generally intends to have specific ideal and distinct characteristics primarily for safety, clinical efficacy, and boosted therapeutic index. The delivery of drugs, particularly macromolecules, across the skin is one of the most strenuous obstacles in front of pharmaceutical scientists. Technology advancement has provided some opportunities to overcome this difficulty by utilising microneedle arrays, ablation, laser methods etc. However, associated uneasiness, painful sensation, and higher cost of therapies limit their day-today use. Therefore, researchers have focused on developing alternate carriers like ultra-deformable liposomes, also termed transfersomes. Transfersomes are composed of a lipid bilayer containing phospholipids and an edge activator to facilitate drug delivery via transdermal route to deeper layers of skin and for higher systemic bioavailability. The bilayer structure of transfersomes allows ease of encapsulation of both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs with higher permeability than typical liposomes. Therefore, among various vesicular systems, transfersomes have developed much interest in targeted and sustained drug delivery. The current review primarily emphasizes critical aspects of transfersomes, including their applications, clinical trial studies, and patents found in various literature sources.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: A Novel Platform in the Formulation of Targeted Drug Delivery Systems]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138691</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Lipid-based formulations, such as Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), have been thoroughly studied as drug delivery platforms. NLCs are binary systems composed of both solid and liquid lipids that aim to produce a lipidic core that is less ordered. Components of NLCs particularly influence the physicochemical characteristics and efficacy of the final product. </p> <p> Morphology : They contain a solid matrix at room temperature and are thought to be superior to many other conventional lipids-based nanocarriers, such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanoemulsions, and liposomes because of their improved stability, drug loading capacity, good biocompatibility, enhanced permeability, bioavailability, extended half-life, fewer side effects, tissue- specific delivery and wide range of potential applications. </p> <p> Significance : NLCs have multiple applications in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics due to their ease of preparation, the feasibility of scale-up, non-toxic, improved targeting efficiency and potential for site-specific delivery via various routes of administration. </p> <p> Scope of Review: This review enlightens about the most recent developments of NLCs as a drug delivery system, types of NLCs, current techniques to prepare NLCs, and characterization techniques that are essential for the development of safe, effective and stable formulation. It also encompasses the potential of using NLCs for various administration routes and recent developments in pharmaceutical applications with successful outcomes. </p> <p> Conclusion: This review certainly provide great insight into formulation considerations using design experts and modification strategies for improved targeting. On the whole, NLCs are broadly explored and preferred lipid nanocarrier systems with several advantages.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Unravelling the Impact: Pulmonary Side Effects of Anti-Seizure Medications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138307</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Epilepsy is a chronic brain condition affecting over 50 million people worldwide. Several new anti-seizure medications (ASMs) have been introduced to treat epilepsy in recent decades. </p> <p> Objective: Nearby the specific therapeutic action, ASMs, like other types of pharmacotherapy, can produce various side effects. In this review, we shall analyze the different pharmaceutical classes of ASMs, their mechanism of action, and their interaction with the respiratory system. </p> <p> Methods: This manuscript is based on a retrospective review of English publications indexed by Pubmed, UpToDate and datasheets published by the European Medicines Agency and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), using various terms reminiscent of ASMs and pulmonary function. </p> <p> Results: ASMs act on organism homeostasis in different ways, acting on lung function directly and indirectly and playing a protective or damaging role. A damaging direct lung involvement ranged from infections, hypersensitivity reactions, and respiratory depression to other structured pulmonary diseases. Meanwhile, a damaging indirect effect, might be constituted by pulmonary artery hypertension. On the other hand, a protective effect might be the expression of developmental processing, decreasing airway remodelling in asthma patients, vascular remodelling in pulmonary hypertension and, nonetheless, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions. </p> <p> Conclusion: An adequate awareness of ASMs effects on the respiratory system seems essential for better managing frail individuals or/and those predisposed to respiratory disorders to improve our patients' clinical outcomes.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapeutic Significance of Cornin in Medicine for Their Biological Importance and Pharmacological Activity: An Overview of Iridoid Glycosides of <i>Verbena Officinalis L.</i>]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138077</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Plant products have been used for the treatment of numerous kinds of human disorders since the very ancient age. Iridoid glycosides are secondary plant metabolites of medicinal importance that have been well investigated in the scientific field for their role in plants. Numerous iridoid class phytochemicals have cardiovascular, anti-viral, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, anti-spasmodic, hypolipidemic, choleretic, purgative, and hypoglycaemic activity. </p> <p> Methods: Here in the present work, we have collected scientific information on cornin and presented it with respect to its medicinal importance and pharmacological activities with their analytical aspects. Scientific information on cornin has been collected from numerous scientific databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Google, and Scopus to know the biological potential of cornin in medicine. Further, pharmacological activity scientific data of cornin has been presented in this work with proper citations. </p> <p> Results: The scientific data of the present paper described the biological significance of cornin in medicine. The further detailed pharmacological activity of cornin signified its therapeutic effectiveness on cerebral ischemia, angiogenesis, autophagy, myocardial injury, cerebral injury, oxidative injury, lipid peroxidation, proliferation, and cytochrome p450. Analytical data signified the separation, isolation, and identification techniques of cornin in medicine. </p> <p> Conclusion: The scientific information of the present work will be beneficial for all scientific people to explore the therapeutic effectiveness of cornin in medicine.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Resveratrol in Alzheimer's Disease: A Comprehensive Review
of Current Research]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136645</link><description><![CDATA[Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired daily functioning. The etiology of AD is complex and multifactorial, involving various pathological mechanisms such as the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. As the global prevalence of AD continues to rise, there is a growing interest in identifying potential therapeutic interventions to prevent or slow down the progression of the disease. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound found in various plant sources such as grapes, berries, and peanuts, has gained considerable attention due to its potential neuroprotective effects. Numerous preclinical studies utilizing <i>in vitro</i> and animal models have investigated the impact of resveratrol on AD pathology and associated cognitive impairments. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current research on the role of resveratrol in AD. In conclusion, resveratrol holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for AD due to its ability to target multiple pathological processes involved in the disease. Further research, including well-designed clinical trials with larger sample sizes, is needed to fully elucidate the efficacy, optimal dosage, and long-term effects of resveratrol in AD patients. Nevertheless, resveratrol remains an intriguing compound with neuroprotective properties and may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for AD in the future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Curcumin and Curcumin Derivatives for Therapeutic Applications:
<i>In vitro</i> and <i>In vivo</i> Studies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137990</link><description><![CDATA[Curcumin is a naturally derived phytochemical compound obtained from the turmeric plant <i>Curcuma longa L.</i> (Zingiberaceae family), which is a popular spice and food color and has been actively researched for decades. It has been shown to have a variety of pharmacological properties both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. Several investigations have shown that curcumin's metabolites contribute to its pharmacological effectiveness. Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activity when used alone or in conjunction with conventional treatments. There are various unique and diverse pharmacological effects of curcumin against various disease conditions like diabetes, inflammation, cancer, malaria, and Alzheimer's. The <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> mechanisms by which curcumin exerts its pharmacological effects are reviewed. Based on data from the clinical and experimental evaluation of curcumin in animal models and human subjects, the review summarizes the pharmacological effect of curcumin and its derivatives concerning anti-tumor property, their mechanism of action, and their cellular target. The current research focuses on identifying curcumin's function in the immune system's cascade and determining the ideal effective dose (ED50). Through <i>in-vitro</i> and <i>in-vivo</i> experiments, the current study aims to comprehend and establish the role of curcumin in the healing of disease conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137907</link><description><![CDATA[While the majority of patients have complete resolution of their acute pulmonary embolism (PE) after an adequate course of anticoagulation, some patients remain symptomatic with evidence of chronic PE. Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH) and Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Disease (CTEPD) are terms that describe symptomatic patients with chronic thromboembolic occlusions of the pulmonary arteries with or without pulmonary hypertension, respectively. Here, we review the definitions, epidemiology, pathobiology, diagnosis and management of CTEPH. The chronic PE in CTEPH is essentially a scar in the pulmonary vasculature and is accompanied by a pulmonary arteriolar vasculopathy. Ventilation-perfusion scanning is the most sensitive screening test for CTEPH, and diagnosis must be confirmed by right heart catheterization (RHC). Treatment decisions require a multidisciplinary team and guidance from additional imaging, usually CT or pulmonary angiography. While pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) to remove the chronic PE surgically is still the first-line treatment for appropriate candidates, there is an expanding role for balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) and medical treatment, as well as multimodality treatment approaches that incorporate all of those options. New imaging modalities and treatment strategies hold the promise to improve our care and management of CTEPH patients in the future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Group 5 Pulmonary Hypertension: Multiple Systemic Diseases, Multiple
Mechanisms of Pulmonary Hypertension, and Multiple Management
Challenges]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138833</link><description><![CDATA[Group 5 pulmonary hypertension (PH) with unclear and/or multifactorial mechanisms includes a wide variety of conditions associated with PH, and the mechanisms by which PH develops vary dramatically depending on the underlying condition. Indeed, in many group 5 conditions, such as sarcoidosis, multiple distinct drivers of PH are present concurrently in a single patient, with the predominant factor depending on the predisposing disease phenotype. For this reason, thorough diagnostic evaluation to most accurately phenotype every patient with group 5 PH is essential. Treatment of these patients should begin by fully characterizing and optimizing the management of their underlying disease, often in conjunction with disease experts. Initial targets of PH treatment include identifying and correcting factors that worsen PH, such as volume overload and hypoxemia, as well as a complete PH evaluation, searching for other undiagnosed causes of PH (e.g., congenital heart disease or chronic thromboembolic disease). Data to guide treatment with therapies specific to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are inadequate for any specific recommendations, and adverse effects in group 5 patients are common. If these therapies are considered, evaluation by a multidisciplinary team that includes a PH specialist is recommended. Factors in the selection of PAH therapies should include consideration of the dominant physiologic features of the underlying disease, the severity of hemodynamic and right ventricular abnormalities, the risk of adverse drug effects, and any known contraindications to PAH-specific medications based on the underlying condition. Vigilant monitoring following initiation of PAH-specific therapy is critical, as the clinical effects are hard to predict, and untoward events, such as uncovering pulmonary veno-occlusive disease, may occur. Collaborative care by a multidisciplinary team of experts is key to the management of this challenging patient population.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Right Ventricle in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: An Organ at
the “Heart of the Problem”]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139206</link><description><![CDATA[Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease with no cure. A major determinant of outcome is the function of the right ventricle (RV). Unfortunately, progressive RV dysfunction and failure can occur despite PAH-specific therapies. While initial adaptive hypertrophic changes occur to maintain cardiac output and preserve contractile function and reserve, maladaptive changes occur in the RV muscle that contribute to RV systolic and diastolic dysfunction and failure. These include impaired angiogenesis / decreased capillary density with ischemia, fibrosis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis and impaired autophagy, inflammation, enhanced oxidative stress, altered metabolism, etc. Of note, there are no therapies currently approved that offset these changes and treatment of RV dysfunction is largely supportive only. Further patients often do not qualify for bilateral lung transplantation because of co-morbidities such as renal impairment. Thus, a dire unmet need exists regarding the management of RV dysfunction and failure in patients with PAH. In this State-of-the-Art review, we comprehensively outline the unique features of the RV compared to the left ventricle (LV) under normal circumstances and highlight the unique challenges faced by the RV when confronted with increased afterload as occurs in PAH. We provide detailed insights into the basis for the adaptive hypertrophic phase as well as detailed commentary into the pathophysiology of the maladapted dysfunctional state as well as the pathobiological aberrations occurring in the RV muscle that underlines the progressive dysfunction and failure that commonly ensues. We also review comprehensively the evaluation of RV function using all currently employed imaging, hemodynamic and other modalities and provide a balanced outline of strengths and limitations of such approaches with the treating clinician in mind. We outline the current approaches, albeit limited to chronic multi-modal management of RV dysfunction and failure. We further outline new possible approaches to treatment that include novel pharmacologic approaches, possible use of cellular/stem cell therapies and mechanical approaches. This review is directed to the treating clinician to provide comprehensive insights regarding the RV in patients with PAH.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enhanced Solubility and Increased Bioavailability with Engineered
Nanocrystals]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136149</link><description><![CDATA[The exploration of nanocrystal technology is currently receiving significant attention in various fields, including therapeutic formulation, clinical formulation, in-vivo and in-vitro correlation research, and related investigations. The domain of nanocrystals in pharmaceutical delivery has received significant interest as a potential solution for the difficulties associated with medications that have low solubility. The nanocrystals demonstrate promise in improving solubility and bioavailability, presenting a potential resolution to significant challenges. Significantly, nanocrystals have exhibited efficacy in the context of oral administration, showcasing prompt absorption due to their quick breakdown, hence fitting with the requirements of medications that necessitate fast commencement of action. In addition, the adaptability of drug nanocrystals encompasses several methods of administration, including oral, parenteral, ophthalmic, cutaneous, pulmonary, and targeted delivery modalities. The observed consistency can be ascribed to the increased solubility of nanocrystals of the medicine, which effectively counteracts the influence of food on the absorption of the drug. Surface modification tactics have a significant influence on insoluble medicines by enhancing hydrophilicity and reducing plasma protein adsorption on the crystal surface. The surface properties of nanocrystals are modified through the utilization of specific surfactants and polymers, which are subsequently incorporated into polymer solutions via high-pressure homogenization procedures. This article encompasses an examination of the drug distribution mechanism, the nanocrystal formulation technology, the therapeutic applications, the potential future developments, and the challenges associated with the solubility and bioavailability of tailored nanocrystals, as discussed in this article. Consequently, it possesses the capacity to provide guidance for future investigations pertaining to nanocrystal technology.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Group 1 (Part A): Overview,
Classification, Clinical Subsets, and Workup]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136885</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Pulmonary hypertension is a rare, progressive disease characterized by increased pulmonary arterial pressure and right ventricular failure due to pulmonary vascular remodeling. The disease definition and management have evolved over time. The 6th WSPH now defines it as a mean pulmonary arterial pressure >20mmHg, while recent ESC/ERS guidelines recommend lowering the threshold for pulmonary vascular resistance to 2WU. <p> Understanding of the disease has improved through registries, classifying it into five distinct groups with similar histology, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches. These groups include PAH, with heritable and idiopathic causes, as well as various clinical subsets involving connective tissue disease, HIV, portopulmonary hypertension, congenital heart disease, and schistosomiasis. Long-term responders to calcium channel blockers, PAH with venous/capillaries involvement, and persistent PH of newborns are categorized under Group 1, now re-classified as IPAH. <p> A comprehensive workup for suspected patients includes various tests like electrocardiogram, pulmonary function testing, autoimmune workup, HIV testing, echocardiogram, right heart catheterization, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. <p> This review emphasizes the disease's definition and epidemiology, delving into each subset and providing updated workup guidelines. The subsequent article will focus on risk stratification and treatment strategies.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pulmonary Hypertension Related to Left Heart Disease (PH-LHD)]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140187</link><description><![CDATA[Pulmonary Hypertension secondary to left heart disease (PH-LHD) is the most common form of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and is a frequent complication of heart failure. It is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The definitions of both PH and PH-LHD have changed over time and now generally follow those established by the 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (WSPH) in 2018 and the most recent European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines in 2022. A systematic approach including clinical history and noninvasive testing is required to properly diagnose PH-LHD, and accurate hemodynamics by right heart catheterization, sometimes involving provocative testing, are often needed to diagnose PH-LHD but are essential to further subclassify PH-LHD into either isolated post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (Ipc-PH) <i>versus</i> combined pre and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (Cpc-PH). This distinction is important as it guides therapeutic decisions and carries prognostic implications. Cpc-PH, in particular, shares some histo-pathologic and hemodynamic characteristics with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and, hence, the rationale for the potential use of pulmonary vasodilator therapy. To date, however, there is no strong evidence to support PAH-specific medications for Cpc- PH, and the mainstay of treatment for PH-LHD remains to treat the underlying cause of LHD. Further research is warranted to refine therapeutic approaches, improve long-term outcomes, and explore novel treatment modalities to alleviate the burden of PH in this patient population.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Group 1: Overview, Workup,
Risk Stratification, and Current (and Future) Treatment Approaches]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137232</link><description><![CDATA[Risk assessment (or risk stratification) and both current and future therapies for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) will be discussed in part B. Risk assessment is key in the initial evaluation and follow-up of persons with PAH. Risk assessment provides information on disease severity and mortality, which, over time, have been incorporated into the application of PAH therapies. After the initial risk assessment, a 4-strata approach is recommended at subsequent follow- up evaluations by the 2022 ERS/ESC pulmonary hypertension (PH) guidelines as described initially in COMPERA 2.0. This method appears to have increased sensitivity to changes in risk from baseline to follow-up and to changes in long-term mortality risk. Current PAH therapies target the prostacyclin, endothelin, and nitric oxide pathways. A sequential approach to therapy has been recommended since publication of the 2009 guidelines and, in the most recent iteration incorporates the 4-strata approach at follow-up. Additional therapy is recommended when intermediate- high or high-risk status is present. New therapies are under active investigation that include targeting novel pathways. Sotatercept, a fusion protein that binds to and sequesters select transforming growth factor &#946; superfamily ligands, is the most promising novel therapy at this time. A recent phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in group 1 PAH patients showed a statistically significant improvement in 6-minute walk distance and additional studies of this drug in PH populations are ongoing. Progress in phenotyping this heterogeneous disease is being made, and as PAH therapies continue to evolve, the use of personalized treatment regimens may be possible in the care of this complex, and highly morbid and mortal disease.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pathobiology of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139104</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease associated with occlusive pulmonary arterial remodeling of vessels < 500 μm for which there is no cure. Even in the era of PAH-specific combination therapies, aberrant lung pathology and progressive right ventricular (RV) dysfunction occur, culminating in a median survival of 6.2 years, according to the latest data in the treatment era. While better than a median survival from symptom onset of 2.8 years prior to PAH-specific therapies, it is still poor. Thus, there is an urgent need to move the opportunities forward for meaningful treatment strategies. Clearly, a better understanding of the highly complex pathobiology of PAH is needed if we are to achieve new and novel treatment strategies. This is especially so if we are to pursue a more personalized treatment approach to PAH in light of the multitude of pathobiological abnormalities described in PAH, which likely culminate in a final common pathway for PAH development. <p> In this State-of-the-Art review, we provide comprehensive insights into the complex pathobiology of PAH to provide understanding and insights for the practicing clinician. We review the pathology of PAH and the cells involved and their impact in driving pathological abnormalities (pulmonary artery endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts and pericytes) as well as the role of the extracellular matrix. Inflammation and immune dysfunction are considered important drivers of PAH and are comprehensively discussed. Another pathway relates to TGFβ/ bone morphogenic protein (BMP) imbalance, which is highlighted, as well as a new novel agent, sotatercept that impacts this imbalance. Genetic factors underlying heritable PAH (HPAH) are addressed, as well as epigenetic influences. Other important pathways highlighted include growth factor signaling, ion channels/channelopathy, hypoxia signaling pathways, and altered metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction. We also address the “estrogen paradox”, whereby PAH is more common in women but more severe in men. The basis for drug-induced PAH is discussed, including the new methamphetamine epidemic. We briefly provide insights into DNA damage and senescence factors in pathobiology and highlight commonalities between PAH and cancer pathobiology. Furthermore, we provide concluding insights for the treating physician. In conclusion, we need to pose the right questions to motivate novel and effective treatment strategies for the management of PAH based on pathobiological principles and understanding.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Chronic Lung Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139732</link><description><![CDATA[Patients with Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) are frequently burdened by pulmonary hypertension (PH), which is associated with reduced functional capacity, poor quality of life, increased oxygen requirements, and increased morbidity and mortality. The development of PH associated with chronic lung disease (PH-CLD) is complex and multifactorial and varies between different types of CLD. In this review, we provide an update on PH-CLD, with a particular focus on Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). We discussed epidemiology, histopathology, pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment approaches. There are limited data on the use of pulmonary arterial hypertension-specific treatments in PH-CLD, so it has been proposed to phenotype patients based on their degree of pulmonary vascular disease to guide individualized care. The heterogeneity within PH-CLD highlights the importance of identifying novel molecular pathways unique to each subgroup to ultimately achieve precision medicine.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Recent Advances in the Function and Mechanism of Caveolin-1 in
Retinal Neovascularization]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139621</link><description><![CDATA[Retinal neovascularization diseases have relatively high rates of evitable blindness. Abnormal retinal neovascularization is their main hallmark, which can damage the structure and function of the eye and lead to impaired vision. Caveolin-1 is a membrane protein that is expressed in many types of retinal cells and is involved in retinal neovascularization. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of global research on specific functions of caveolin-1 in retinal neovascularization. We believe that the mechanism of action of caveolin-1 might be related to the regulation of relevant signal pathways and looked ahead the application prospects of modulating caveolin- 1 in retinal neovascularization diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Unveiling the Molecular Mechanism of Diosmetin and its Impact on
Multifaceted Cellular Signaling Pathways]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139793</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Diosmetin is an O-methylated flavone and the aglycone part of the flavonoid glycosides diosmin that occurs naturally in citrus fruits. Pharmacologically, diosmetin is reported to exhibit anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, oestrogenic, and anti-inflammatory activities. <p> Objective: This comprehensive review was aimed to critically explore diverse pharmacological activities exhibited by diosmetin. Along with that, this review can also identify potential research areas with an elucidation of the multifactorial underlying signaling mechanism of action of diosmetin in different diseases. <p> Methods: A comprehensive collection of evidence and insights was obtained from scientific journals and books from physical libraries and electronic platforms like Google Scholar and PubMed. The time frame selected was from year 1992 to July 2023. <p> Results: The review delves into diosmetin's impact on cellular signaling pathways and its potential in various diseases. Due to its ability to modulate signaling pathways and reduce oxidative stress, it can be suggested as a potential versatile therapeutic agent for mitigating oxidative stressassociated pathogenesis. <p> Conclusion: The amalgamation of the review underscores diosmetin's promising role as a multifaceted therapeutic agent, highlighting its potential for drug development and clinical applications.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 Molecule on Coronary Collateral
Development]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127210</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Collateral arteries provide an alternative source to the myocardium resulting from ischemia due to occlusive coronary artery disease and may help preserve myocardial function in the case of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although collateral development is so important, its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. Till now, no study has investigated the relationship between Fibroblast growth factor-21(FGF-21) and coronary collateral. <P> Objective: This study aims to investigate the pathophysiology of coronary collateral development. <P> Methods: In our study, which we planned as a case-control, 60 consecutive patients with ≥90 stenosis in at least one large coronary artery as a result of coronary angiography (CAG) and 30 patients with normal coronary angiography were included in the study cross-sectional. Demographic, echocardiographic and laboratory data were recorded. Coronary collateral circulation was evaluated using the Rentrop-Cohen method. FGF-21 levels were measured in all individuals. <P> Results: In the analysis, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in basic biochemical parameters other than HDL (p>0.05 for all). FGF-21 level was statistically significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p: 0.003). Also, the FGF-21 level was found to be statistically significantly higher in the good collateral circulation group than the poor (p:0.006). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to predict the presence of collateral. We found that FGF-21(p=0.006), and C-reactive protein (p=0.020) predicted the presence of collateral independently. <P> Conclusion: Collateral formation and cardiac prognosis are closely related. Our study is the first to investigate the relationship between collateral formation and FGF-21. Our study showed that the FGF-21 level is an independent predictor of collateral formation. In addition, there was a significant difference between bad and good collateral formation regarding FGF-21 levels.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Diabetic Retinopathy Leading to Blindness- A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137696</link><description><![CDATA[Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes that damages the retina, leading to blindness. People with type 1 diabetes are at greater risk of developing DR than people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy may be divided into two primary categories: Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). There are multiple risk factors for the onset and progression of diabetic retinopathy, such as hypertension, obesity, smoking, duration of diabetes, and genetics. Numerous investigations have evaluated the levels of a wide range of inflammatory chemokines within DR patients' serum, vitreous, and aqueous fluids. In diabetic retinopathy, the vitreous fluid exhibited rises in angiogenic factors like platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) or vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or declines in antiangiogenic factors like pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). For prevention of diabetic retinopathy, more physical activity as well as less sedentary behavior were linked to a reduced likelihood of DR. Supplementing with nutraceuticals containing vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, C, D, E, and l-methyl folate) and mineral (zinc) can help decrease or avoid an outbreak of DR. Only laser photocoagulation and Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (Anti-VEGF) injections are advised as favorable therapies in severe retinopathy. When it comes to treating DR's VEGF levels, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and angiogenesis, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has an excellent future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comprehensive Factors for Predicting the Complications of Diabetes
Mellitus: A Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136989</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: This article focuses on extracting a standard feature set for predicting the complications of diabetes mellitus by systematically reviewing the literature. It is conducted and reported by following the guidelines of PRISMA, a well-known systematic review and meta-analysis method. The research articles included in this study are extracted using the search engine \"Web of Science\" over eight years. The most common complications of diabetes, diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases are considered in the study. <p> Method: The features used to predict the complications are identified and categorised by scrutinising the standards of electronic health records. <p> Result: Overall, 102 research articles have been reviewed, resulting in 59 frequent features being identified. Nineteen attributes are recognised as a standard in all four considered complications, which are age, gender, ethnicity, weight, height, BMI, smoking history, HbA1c, SBP, eGFR, DBP, HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, triglyceride, use of insulin, duration of diabetes, family history of CVD, and diabetes. The existence of a well-accepted and updated feature set for health analytics models to predict the complications of diabetes mellitus is a vital and contemporary requirement. A widely accepted feature set is beneficial for benchmarking the risk factors of complications of diabetes. <p> Conclusion: This study is a thorough literature review to provide a clear state of the art for academicians, clinicians, and other stakeholders regarding the risk factors and their importance.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Risk Factors and Prognosis of Early Neurological Deterioration after
Bridging Therapy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137493</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Early neurological deterioration (END) after bridging therapy (BT) of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients is associated with poor outcomes. <p> Objective: We aimed to study the incidence, risk factors and prognosis of END after BT. <p> Methods: From January to December 2021, the clinical data of AIS patients treated by BT (intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase prior to mechanical thrombectomy) from three comprehensive stroke centers were analyzed. Patients were divided into non-END group and END group according to whether they developed END within 72 hours of symptom onset. Modified Rankin scale (mRS) was used to assess the patient’s prognosis at 90 days, and favorable outcomes were defined as mRS≤2. The incidence of END was investigated, and binary logistic regression analysis was used to explore its associated factors. <p> Results: The incidence of END after BT was 33.67%. The eligible 90 patients included 29 cases in the END group and 61 cases in the non-END group. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that increase of systolic blood pressure (SBP) (OR=1.026, 95%CI:1.001-1.051, p =0.043), higher level of blood glucose at admission (OR=1.389, 95%CI:1.092-1.176, p =0.007) and large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) subtype (OR=8.009, 95%CI:2.357-27.223, p =0.001) were independent risk factors of END. Compared with the non-END group, the END group had significantly lower rates of good outcomes (6.90% versus 65.57%, p =0.001) while higher rates of mortality (44.83% versus 4.92%, p =0.001). <p> Conclusion: It was found that the incidence of END after BT in AIS patients was 33.67%. An increase in SBP, higher glucose levels at admission, and LAA were independent risk factors of END that predicted a poor prognosis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[TRUST Technique for Neurointervention: A Promising Alternative for
Complex Cases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137494</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Neurointervention via Transradial Access (TRA) is becoming increasingly popular as experience with this technique increases. However, approximately 8.6–10.3% of complex TRA cases are converted to femoral access due to a lack of support or radial artery spasm. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the TRUST (trans-radial coaxial catheter technique using a short sheath, Simmons catheter, and Tethys intermediate catheter) technique in interventional procedures via TRA. <p> Methods: This was a single-center retrospective analysis of 16 patients admitted to our institute between January 2023 to May 2023 to undergo endovascular interventions with the TRUST technique via the TRA. <p> Results: The mean age of the study population was 63.8 years, and 62.5% were male (10/16). The most common procedure was intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (93.75%, 15/16). All procedures were performed successfully, and the most common procedures in our cohort were ballooning (50.0%, 8/16), stenting (18.75%, 3/16), and both procedures combined (31.25%, 1/16). All procedures were performed using the TRA, and the distal and proximal radial arteries were used for access in 31.35% (5/16) and 68.75% (11/16) of the cases, respectively. Technical success was achieved in all patients and most cases demonstrated mTICI ≥2b recanalization (93.75%, 15/16). In this case, no major access-site complications occurred. <p> Conclusion: The TRUST technique is technically safe and feasible and had a high technical success rate and low complication rate in our study. These results demonstrate that the TRUST technique is a promising alternative for patients undergoing complex neurointerventions.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Promising Role of Guggulipid in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Management: An In-depth Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137965</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Guggulipid, an oleo-gum resin extracted from the bark of <i>Commiphora wightii</i> of the Burseraceae family, holds a significant place in Ayurvedic medicine due to its historical use in treating various disorders, including inflammation, gout, rheumatism, obesity, and lipid metabolism imbalances. <p> Objective: This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the molecular targets of guggulipids and explore their cellular responses. Furthermore, it summarizes the findings from <i>in-vitro, in-vivo</i>, and clinical investigations related to arthritis and various inflammatory conditions. <p> Methods: A comprehensive survey encompassing <i>in-vitro, in-vivo</i>, and clinical studies has been conducted to explore the therapeutic capacity of guggulipid in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Various molecular pathways, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), PI3-kinase/AKT, JAK/STAT, nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and NF&#954;B signaling pathways, have been targeted to assess the antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory effects of this compound. <p> Results: The research findings reveal that guggulipid demonstrates notable antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory effects by targeting key molecular pathways involved in inflammatory responses. These pathways include COX-2, VEGF, PI3-kinase/AKT, JAK/STAT, iNOS, and NF&#954;B signaling pathways. <i>in-vitro, in-vivo</i>, and clinical studies collectively support the therapeutic potential of guggulipid in managing rheumatoid arthritis and related inflammatory conditions. <p> Conclusion: This review provides a deeper understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms and potential of guggulipid in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. The collective evidence strongly supports the promising role of guggulipid as a therapeutic agent, encouraging further research and development in guggulipid-based treatments for these conditions.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Involvement of Nrf2 Signaling in Lead-induced Toxicity]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131984</link><description><![CDATA[Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is used as one of the main protective factors against various pathological processes, as it regulates cells resistant to oxidation. Several studies have extensively explored the relationship between environmental exposure to heavy metals, particularly lead (Pb), and the development of various human diseases. These metals have been reported to be able to, directly and indirectly, induce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cause oxidative stress in various organs. Since Nrf2 signaling is important in maintaining redox status, it has a dual role depending on the specific biological context. On the one hand, Nrf2 provides a protective mechanism against metal-induced toxicity; on the other hand, it can induce metalinduced carcinogenesis upon prolonged exposure and activation. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize the latest knowledge on the functional interrelation between toxic metals, such as Pb and Nrf2 signaling.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuroprotective Properties of Antiepileptics: What are the Implications
for Psychiatric Disorders?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132022</link><description><![CDATA[Since the discovery of the first antiepileptic compound, increasing attention has been paid to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), and recently, with the understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying cells death, a new interest has revolved around a potential neuroprotective effect of AEDs. While many neurobiological studies in this field have focused on the protection of neurons, growing data are reporting how exposure to AEDs can also affect glial cells and the plastic response underlying recovery; however, demonstrating the neuroprotective abilities of AEDs remains a changeling task. The present work aims to summarize and review the literature available on the neuroprotective properties of the most commonly used AEDs. Results highlighted how further studies should investigate the link between AEDs and neuroprotective properties; while many studies are available on valproate, results for other AEDs are very limited and the majority of the research has been carried out on animal models. Moreover, a better understanding of the biological basis underlying neuro-regenerative defects may pave the way for the investigation of further therapeutic targets and eventually lead to an improvement in the actual treatment strategies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Progress on Central Cholinergic Receptors as Therapeutic
Targets for Alzheimer's Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/139353</link><description><![CDATA[Acetylcholine (ACh) is ubiquitously present in the nervous system and has been involved in the regulation of various brain functions. By modulating synaptic transmission and promoting synaptic plasticity, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex, ACh plays a pivotal role in the regulation of learning and memory. These procognitive actions of ACh are mediated by the neuronal muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors. The impairment of cholinergic transmission leads to cognitive decline associated with aging and dementia. Therefore, the cholinergic system has been of prime focus when concerned with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia. In AD, the extensive destruction of cholinergic neurons occurs by amyloid-β plaques and tau protein-rich neurofibrillary tangles. Amyloid-&#946; also blocks cholinergic receptors and obstructs neuronal signaling. This makes the central cholinergic system an important target for the development of drugs for AD. In fact, centrally acting cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil and rivastigmine are approved for the treatment of AD, although the outcome is not satisfactory. Therefore, identification of specific subtypes of cholinergic receptors involved in the pathogenesis of AD is essential to develop future drugs. Also, the identification of endogenous rescue mechanisms to the cholinergic system can pave the way for new drug development. In this article, we discussed the neuroanatomy of the central cholinergic system. Further, various subtypes of muscarinic and nicotinic receptors involved in the cognition and pathophysiology of AD are described in detail. The article also reviewed primary neurotransmitters that regulate cognitive processes by modulating basal forebrain cholinergic projection neurons.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Current Landscape of Gene Therapy for the Treatment of Cardiovascular
Disorders]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138068</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiovascular disorders (CVD) are the primary cause of death worldwide. Multiple factors have been accepted to cause cardiovascular diseases; among them, smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating habits, age, and family history are flag-bearers. Individuals at risk of developing CVD are suggested to make drastic habitual changes as the primary intervention to prevent CVD; however, over time, the disease is bound to worsen. This is when secondary interventions come into play, including antihypertensive, anti-lipidemic, anti-anginal, and inotropic drugs. These drugs usually undergo surgical intervention in patients with a much higher risk of heart failure. These therapeutic agents increase the survival rate, decrease the severity of symptoms and the discomfort that comes with them, and increase the overall quality of life. However, most individuals succumb to this disease. None of these treatments address the molecular mechanism of the disease and hence are unable to halt the pathological worsening of the disease. Gene therapy offers a more efficient, potent, and important novel approach to counter the disease, as it has the potential to permanently eradicate the disease from the patients and even in the upcoming generations. However, this therapy is associated with significant risks and ethical considerations that pose noteworthy resistance. In this review, we discuss various methods of gene therapy for cardiovascular disorders and address the ethical conundrum surrounding it.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapeutic Potential and Prospects of L-arginine in Various Diseases and
its Clinical Intervention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135786</link><description><![CDATA[The goal of this review is to explored the therapeutic application of L-Arginine (L-ARG) against various pathological illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), cardiovascular disorder, mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, stroke-like episodes (MELAS), sickle cell anemia, tumour, epilepsy, erectile dysfunction therapy (ED), gestational hypertension (GH), and menopause issues. L-ARG is an important semi-essential alpha-amino acid that serves as a natural precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO). It is generally synthesized from proteinogenic amino acid proline through glutamine and glutamate. The degradation of L-ARG is a complex process due to the expression of multiple enzymes in the form of a substrate. The metabolism of L-ARG takes place in various multiple pathways, such as nitric oxide synthase, Arginine glycine amidinotransferase, and Arginine decarboxylase which results in the production of a diverse range of biochemical compounds, such as nitric oxide, polyamines, proline, glutamate, creanine, agmatine homoarginine, and urea. NO is a highly diffusible free radicle with a regulatory function in the heart and acts as an important vasodilator in intact endothelium. NO serves as an important neurotransmitter in the brain and a mediator of host defense in the immune system. L-ARG is also needed for ammonia detoxification, which is a very toxic chemical to the central nervous system. This review article focuses on the relevance of L-ARG in the prevention and treatment of a variety of illnesses.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein (CETP) Variations in Relation to Lipid
Profiles and Cardiovascular Diseases: An Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138890</link><description><![CDATA[Lipid metabolism plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is a crucial glycoprotein involved in lipid metabolism by transferring cholesteryl esters (CE) and triglycerides (TG) between plasma lipoproteins. CETP activity results in reduced HDL-C and increased VLDL- and LDL-C concentrations, thus increasing the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In this review, we discuss the structure of CETP and its mechanism of action. Furthermore, we focus on recent experiments on animal CETP-expressing models, deciphering the regulation and functions of CETP in various genetic backgrounds and interaction with different external factors. Finally, we discuss recent publications revealing the association of CETP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, lifestyle factors, diet and therapeutic interventions. While CETP SNPs can be used as effective diagnostic markers, diet, lifestyle, gender and ethnic specificity should also be considered for effective treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pharmacological Considerations during Percutaneous Treatment of Heart
Failure]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138634</link><description><![CDATA[Heart Failure (HF) remains a global health challenge, marked by its widespread prevalence and substantial resource utilization. Although the prognosis has improved in recent decades due to the treatments implemented, it continues to generate high morbidity and mortality in the medium to long term. Interventional cardiology has emerged as a crucial player in HF management, offering a diverse array of percutaneous treatments for both acute and chronic HF. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the role of percutaneous interventions in HF patients, with a primary focus on key features, clinical effectiveness, and safety outcomes. Despite the growing utilization of these interventions, there remain critical gaps in the existing body of evidence. Consequently, the need for high-quality randomized clinical trials and extensive international registries is emphasized to shed light on the specific patient populations and clinical scenarios that stand to benefit most from these innovative devices.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A New Cell Model Overexpressing sTGFBR3 for Studying Alzheimer's Disease
<i>In vitro</i>]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138538</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Recent studies have suggested that abnormal microglial hyperactivation has an important role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). sTGFBR3 (a shed extracellular domain of the transforming growth factor type III receptor) is a newly identified target of microglia polarization dysregulation, whose overexpression can cause abnormal accumulation of transforming growth factor &#946;1 (TGF-&#946;1), promoting A&#946;, tau, and neuroinflammatory pathology. <p> Objective: The objective of this study is to develop and validate a new cell model overexpressing sTGFBR3 for studying AD in vitro. <p> Methods: BV2 cells (a microglial cell derived from C57/BL6 murine) were used as a cell model. Cells were then treated with different concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (0, 1, or 0.3 μg/mL) for 12, 24, or 48h and then with or without sodium pervanadate (100 μM) for 30 min. Next, the effect surface optimization method was used to determine optimal experimental conditions. Finally, the optimized model was used to assess the effect of ZQX series compounds and vasicine on cell viability and protein expression. Expression of TGFBR3 and TNF-&#945; was assessed using Western blot. MTT assay was used to assess cell viability, and enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to evaluate extracellular TGF-&#946;1 and sTGFBR3. <p> Results: LPS (0.3 μg/mL) treatment for 11 h at a cell density of 60% and pervanadate concentration (100 μM) incubation for 30 min were the optimal experimental conditions for increasing membrane protein TGFBR3 overexpression, as well as extracellular sTGFBR3 and TGF-&#946;1. Applying ZQX-5 and vasicine reversed this process by reducing extracellular TGF-&#946;1, promoting the phosphorylation of Smad2/3, a protein downstream of TGF-&#946;1, and inhibiting the release of the inflammatory factor TNF-&#945;. <p> Conclusion: This new <i>in vitro</i> model may be a useful cell model for studying Alzheimer's disease <i>in vitro</i>.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neurobiological Staging with Special Reference to Sleep Apnoea Syndrome: An
Update]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129476</link><description><![CDATA[Sleep apnea (SA) or Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a widely spread sleep disorder marked by repetitions of a complete or partial collapse of the upper airways during sleep. The pathogenesis of OSA is due to the recurrent obstruction of the pharyngeal airway during sleep. The risk factors contributing to upper airway obstruction are obesity, cardiovascular diseases, craniofacial changes, alcohol and smoking. The condition is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis is established with polysomnography (PSG). Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, keeping away from alcohol, tobacco, and sedatives and altering the usual sleeping body position help out in decreasing apnoea symptoms. Various treatments are available for the successful management of this disease, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is mainly used in patients with severe SA and oral appliances are widely used in mild to moderate SA and for patients intolerant to CPAP therapy. There are many options available for surgical therapy, with the UPPP (Uvulopalato-pharyngoplasty) being the most widely employed. Also, a number of medications such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCA’s), decongestants, nasal steroids, antihypertensive agents, CNS stimulants and supplementary oxygen are used for treating patients with OSA.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mitochondrial Transplantation and Immune Response of Human Bone
Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Therapeutic of Ischemic Stroke]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131517</link><description><![CDATA[Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality, imposing a significant social and economic burden on patients and their families. However, cerebral vascular occlusion leads to acute loss of neurons and destruction of synaptic structures. The limited treatment options cannot adequately address intra-neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction due to stroke. Therefore, stem cell-derived mitochondria transplantation plays an important role in neuronal protection and recovery after stroke, when combined with the intracranial and extracranial immunoregulatory effects of stem cell therapy, revealing the mechanism of transferred mitochondria in stem cells in protecting neurological function among chronic-phase ischemic stroke by affecting the endogenous apoptotic pathway of neuronal cells. This research elaborated on the mitochondrial dysfunction in neurons after ischemic stroke, followed by human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSC) rescued damaged neurons by mitochondrial transfer through tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), and the immunomodulatory effect of the preferential transfer of stem cells to the spleen when transplanted into the bodywhich created an immune environment for nerve repair, as well as improved neurological recovery after the chronic phase of stroke. This review is expected to provide a novel idea for applying intracranial stem cell transplantation in chronic-phase ischemic stroke treatment.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Understanding the Therapeutic Approaches for Neuroprotection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136805</link><description><![CDATA[The term “neurodegenerative disorders” refers to a group of illnesses in which deterioration of nerve structure and function is a prominent feature. Cognitive capacities such as memory and decision-making deteriorate as a result of neuronal damage. The primary difficulty that remains is safeguarding neurons since they do not proliferate or regenerate spontaneously and are therefore not substituted by the body after they have been damaged. Millions of individuals throughout the world suffer from neurodegenerative diseases. Various pathways lead to neurodegeneration, including endoplasmic reticulum stress, calcium ion overload, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species generation, and apoptosis. Although different treatments and therapies are available for neuroprotection after a brain injury or damage, the obstacles are inextricably connected. Several studies have revealed the pathogenic effects of hypothermia, different breathed gases, stem cell treatments, mitochondrial transplantation, multi-pharmacological therapy, and other therapies that have improved neurological recovery and survival outcomes after brain damage. The present review highlights the use of therapeutic approaches that can be targeted to develop and understand significant therapies for treating neurodegenerative diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Antithrombotic Treatment in Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134138</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease exhibits growing mortality and morbidity worldwide despite the advances in pharmacotherapy and coronary intervention. Coronary artery disease is classified in the acute coronary syndromes and chronic coronary syndromes according to the most recent guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology. Antithrombotic treatment is the cornerstone of therapy in coronary artery disease due to the involvement of atherothrombosis in the pathophysiology of the disease. Administration of antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants and fibrinolytics reduce ischemic risk, which is amplified early post-acute coronary syndromes or post percutaneous coronary intervention; though, antithrombotic treatment increases the risk for bleeding. The balance between ischemic and bleeding risk is difficult to achieve and is affected by patient characteristics, procedural parameters, concomitant medications and pharmacologic characteristics of the antithrombotic agents. Several pharmacological strategies have been evaluated in patients with coronary artery disease, such as the effectiveness and safety of antithrombotic agents, optimal dual antiplatelet treatment schemes and duration, aspirin de-escalation strategies of dual antiplatelet regimens, dual inhibition pathway strategies as well as triple antithrombotic therapy. Future studies are needed in order to investigate the gaps in our knowledge, including special populations.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Direct Oral Anticoagulants use in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery
Disease, Acute Coronary Syndrome or Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary
Intervention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136421</link><description><![CDATA[The investigation for the optimal anticoagulation strategy for patients with stable coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndromes, and undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention constitutes a great challenge for physicians and is a field of extensive research. Although aspirin is commonly recommended as a protective measure for all patients with coronary artery disease and dual antiplatelet therapy for those undergoing procedures, such as percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft surgery, the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events remains significant. In this context, the shortcomings associated with the use of vitamin K antagonists have led to the assessment of direct oral anticoagulants as promising alternatives. This review will explore and provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing data regarding the use of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with stable coronary artery disease or acute coronary syndrome, as well as their effectiveness in those undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft surgery.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Berberine: Pharmacological Features in Health, Disease and Aging]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129343</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Berberine is the main active compound of different herbs and is defined as an isoquinoline quaternary botanical alkaloid found in barks and roots of numerous plants. It exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as anti-obesity and antidiabetic effects. Berberine has antibacterial activity against a variety of microbiota, including many bacterial species, protozoa, plasmodia, fungi, and trypanosomes. <P> Objective: This review describes the role of berberine and its metabolic effects. It also discusses how it plays a role in glucose metabolism, fat metabolism, weight loss, how it modulates the gut microbiota, and what are its antimicrobial properties along with its potential side effects with maximal tolerable dosage. <P> Methods: Representative studies were considered and analyzed from different scientific databases, including PubMed and Web of Science, for the years 1982-2022. <P> Results: Literature analysis shows that berberine affects many biochemical and pharmacological pathways that theoretically yield a positive effect on health and disease. Berberine exhibits neuroprotective properties in various neurodegenerative and neuropsychological ailments. Despite its low bioavailability after oral administration, berberine is a promising tool for several disorders. A possible hypothesis would be the modulation of the gut microbiome. While the evidence concerning the aging process in humans is more limited, preliminary studies have shown positive effects in several models. <P> Conclusion: Berberine could serve as a potential candidate for the treatment of several diseases. Previous literature has provided a basis for scientists to establish clinical trials in humans. However, for obesity, the evidence appears to be sufficient for hands-on use.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[LncRNA-mediated Modulation of Endothelial Cells: Novel Progress
in the Pathogenesis of Coronary Atherosclerotic Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129436</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary atherosclerotic disease (CAD) is a common cardiovascular disease and an important cause of death. Moreover, endothelial cells (ECs) injury is an early pathophysiological feature of CAD, and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) can modulate gene expression. Recent studies have shown that lncRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of CAD, especially by regulating ECs. In this review, we summarize the novel progress of lncRNA-modulated ECs in the pathogenesis of CAD, including ECs proliferation, migration, adhesion, angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and pyroptosis. Thus, as lncRNAs regulate ECs in CAD, lncRNAs will provide ideal and novel targets for the diagnosis and drug therapy of CAD.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transcription Factor EB: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Ischemic
Stroke]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133083</link><description><![CDATA[Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is an important endogenous defensive protein that responds to ischemic stimuli. Acute ischemic stroke is a growing concern due to its high morbidity and mortality. Most survivors suffer from disabilities such as numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, facial droop, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, confusion, impaired balance or coordination, or loss of vision. Although TFEB plays a neuroprotective role, its potential effect on ischemic stroke remains unclear. This article describes the basic structure, regulation of transcriptional activity, and biological roles of TFEB relevant to ischemic stroke. Additionally, we explore the effects of TFEB on the various pathological processes underlying ischemic stroke and current therapeutic approaches. The information compiled here may inform clinical and basic studies on TFEB, which may be an effective therapeutic drug target for ischemic stroke.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuroprotective Role of MiRNA-9 in Neurological Diseases:
A Mini Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127188</link><description><![CDATA[MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding small RNAs with about 22 nucleotides in eukaryotes. They regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and play a key role in physiological and pathological processes. As one of the most abundant miRNAs in the human brain, miRNA-9 (miR-9) has attracted extensive attention due to its important role in the maintenance of normal function of the nervous system and the occurrence and development of nervous system diseases. Hence, we reviewed the neuroprotective effect of miR-9 in neurological diseases. MiR-9 may be a potential target of nervous system diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Functional Roles of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes in Ischemic Stroke
Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128386</link><description><![CDATA[Stroke is a life-threatening disease and one of the leading causes of death and physical disability worldwide. Currently, no drugs on the market promote neural recovery after stroke insult, and spontaneous remodeling processes are limited to induce recovery in the ischemic regions. Therefore, promoting a cell-based therapy has been needed to elevate the endogenous recovery process. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been regarded as candidate cell sources for therapeutic purposes of ischemic stroke, and their therapeutic effects are mediated by exosomes. The microRNA cargo in these extracellular vesicles is mostly responsible for the positive effects. When it comes to the therapeutic viewpoint, MSCsderived exosomes could be a promising therapeutic strategy against ischemic stroke. The aim of this review is to discuss the current knowledge around the potential of MSCs-derived exosomes in the treatment of ischemic stroke.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Novel Concepts in the Management of Angina in Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131759</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease remains a condition with high prevalence and detrimental effects on the quality of life of affected individuals. Its most frequent manifestation, stable angina pectoris, may be challenging to manage despite the available antianginal pharmacotherapy and adequate risk factor control, especially in subjects not amenable to revascularization. In the direction of refractory angina pectoris, several approaches have been developed over the years with varying degrees of success. Among the most recognized techniques in managing angina is enhanced external counterpulsation, which utilizes mechanical compression of the lower extremities to increase blood flow to the heart. Moving to coronary sinus reduction, it leads to an increase in coronary sinus backward pressure, ultimately augmenting myocardial blood flow redistribution to ischemic regions and ameliorating chronic angina. Clinical trial results of the above-mentioned techniques have been encouraging but are based on small sample sizes to justify their widespread application. Other interventional approaches, such as transmyocardial laser revascularization, extracorporeal shockwave myocardial revascularization, and spinal cord stimulation, have been met with either controversial or negative results, and their use is not recommended. Lastly, angiogenic therapy with targeted intramyocardial vascular endothelial growth factor injection or CD34+ cell therapy may be beneficial and warrants further investigation. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge in the field of angina management, highlighting the potential and the gaps in the existing evidence that ought to be addressed in future larger-scale, randomized studies before these techniques can be safely adapted in the clinical practice of patients with refractory angina pectoris]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[PCSK9 Inhibition in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130880</link><description><![CDATA[Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) represent a novel class of hypolipidemic drugs, providing an additional therapeutic option over conventional hypolipidemic treatments. Given the constantly lowering recommended LDL-C goals, low goal achievement rate and low compliance with treatment, new hypolipidemic drug classes may substantially contribute to residual risk reduction for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This review aims to summarize contemporary evidence on the clinical role of PCSK9i in ASCVD prevention. PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched for keywords in studies on PCSK9i and ASCVD. Approved PCSK9i are the monoclonal antibodies (Mabs), evolocumab and alirocumab, targeting PCSK9, and inclisiran, a small interfering RNA inhibiting PSCK9 synthesis. Overall, PCSK9i effectively reduced LDL-C and other atherogenic lipoproteins, including apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein( a) primarily. PSCK9i Mabs improved imaging markers reflecting coronary atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and reduced ASCVD events in high-risk patients after short-term treatment (&#60; 3 years follow-up). They are currently indicated as a third-line treatment for secondary prevention and primary prevention in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia at high risk of not achieving their LDL-C goals. Patients with higher baseline ASCVD risk receive greater benefits from PCSK9i. Recent evidence suggests that evolocumab was effective and safe after long-term treatment. Ongoing trials investigate new therapeutic indications for PCSK9i while their cost-effectiveness is still being considered. PCSK9i is a novel hypolipidemic drug class currently indicated for reducing residual risk in secondary ASCVD prevention and high-risk patients.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Role of Shear Stress in Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130433</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in developed countries, with an increasing incidence in developing countries. Despite the advances in cardiology, there are yet many unanswered questions about the natural history of coronary atherosclerosis. However, it has not been fully explained why some coronary artery plaques remain quiescent over time, whereas others evolve to a high-risk, “vulnerable” plaque with a predisposition to destabilize and induce a cardiac event. Furthermore, approximately half of the patients with acute coronary syndromes demonstrate no prior symptoms of ischemia or angiographically evident disease. Recent findings have indicated that apart from cardiovascular risk factors, genetics, and other unknown factors, local hemodynamic forces, such as endothelial shear stress, blood flow patterns, and endothelial dysfunction of the epicardial and microvascular coronary arteries, are associated with the progression of coronary plaque and the development of cardiovascular complications with complex interactions. In this review article, we summarize the mechanisms that affect coronary artery plaque progression, indicating the importance of endothelial shear stress, endothelial dysfunction of epicardial and microvascular vessels, inflammation, and their complex associations, underlying in parallel the clinical perspectives of these findings.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuroprotective Strategies for Stroke by Natural Products: Advances and
Perspectives]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132946</link><description><![CDATA[Cerebral ischemic stroke is a disease with high prevalence and incidence. Its management focuses on rapid reperfusion with intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular thrombectomy. Both therapeutic strategies reduce disability, but the therapy time window is short, and the risk of bleeding is high. Natural products (NPs) have played a key role in drug discovery, especially for cancer and infectious diseases. However, they have made little progress in clinical translation and pose challenges to the treatment of stroke. Recently, with the investigation of precise mechanisms in cerebral ischemic stroke and the technological development of NP-based drug discovery, NPs are addressing these challenges and opening up new opportunities in cerebral stroke. Thus, in this review, we first summarize the structure and function of diverse NPs, including flavonoids, phenols, terpenes, lactones, quinones, alkaloids, and glycosides. Then we propose the comprehensive neuroprotective mechanism of NPs in cerebral ischemic stroke, which involves complex cascade processes of oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, apoptosis or ferroptosis-related cell death, inflammatory response, and disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Overall, we stress the neuroprotective effect of NPs and their mechanism on cerebral ischemic stroke for a better understanding of the advances and perspective in NPs application that may provide a rationale for the development of innovative therapeutic regimens in ischemic stroke.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Prevalence and Prognostic Factors of Cortical Laminar Necrosis in Acute
Ischemic Stroke]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131796</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cortical laminar necrosis (CLN) is a specific type of cortical infarction, and little is known about its frequency and outcomes. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and outcomes of CLN caused by brain infarction and its prognostic factors. </p><p> Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) between 2019 and 2022 and for whom magnetic resonance images obtained at our center showed acute-stage CLN. Their medical records were collected and analyzed. An unfavorable outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 3-6 at 90 days. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of an unfavorable outcome. </p><p> Results: Among 5548 consecutive patients with AIS, 151 patients (2.7%) were diagnosed with CLN, and 112 had CLN enrolled in the final analysis. At 90 days, 25 patients (22.3%) had an unfavorable outcome. Compared with the favorable group, poor outcome patients had higher rates of previous stroke (<i>p</i> = 0.012), higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at admission (<i>p</i> &#60; 0.001), and were more likely to have early neurologic deterioration (END) (<i>p</i> = 0.014), diffuse ischemic lesions (<i>p</i> = 0.011), and lesions involving multiple lobes (<i>p</i> = 0.030). In multivariable analysis, the initial NIHSS score (OR, 1.258, (95% CI 1.090 - 1.453), p = 0.002) and END (OR, 5.695, [95% CI 1.410 - 23.007], p = 0.015) were independently associated with unfavorable outcome. </p><p> Conclusion: CLN is a rare ischemic event but has a good prognosis in most cases. A higher initial NIHSS score and END may predict an unfavorable outcome.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Combined Role of Inflammatory Biomarkers and Red Blood Cell Distribution
Width in Predicting In-hospital Outcomes of Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Undergoing Thrombolysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132316</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: To investigate the combined effect of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and inflammatory biomarkers on in-hospital outcomes of acute ischemic stroke(AIS) patients with thrombolysis. <p> Methods: 417 AIS patients with thrombolysis were included. The participants were divided into four groups according to the cut-off of white blood cell (WBC) or C reactive protein (CRP) and RDW: LWLR, LWHR, HWLR, and HWHR; or LCLR, LCHR, HCLR, and HCHR (L-low, Hhigh, W-WBC, C-CRP, R-RDW). Logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of in-hospital pneumonia and functional outcome across the four subgroups. <p> Results: Patients with higher RDW and inflammatory biomarkers levels have the highest risk of in-hospital outcomes. Compared with patients in the LWLR group, the ORs (95% CIs) of those in the HWHR group were 12.16 (4.21-35.14) and 9.31 (3.19-27.17) for in-hospital pneumonia and functional outcome. The ORs (95% CIs) of those in the HCHR group were 6.93 (2.70-17.78) and 3.38 (1.10-10.39) for in-hospital pneumonia and functional outcome, compared with patients in the LCLR group. Simultaneously adding RDW and WBC or CRP to the basic model with established risk factors significantly improved risk discrimination and reclassification for pneumonia and functional outcome (all p &#60;0.05). <p> Conclusions: Combined RDW and inflammatory biomarkers within 4.5 hours had a better predictive power for in-hospital outcomes of AIS patients with thrombolysis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Epigenetics Mechanism and Therapeutic Potential of Approved Epi-drugs
in Pulmonary Hypertension Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130643</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Epigenetics is defined as a heritable change occurring in gene expression and phenotype without altering the underlying primary DNA sequence itself. Epigenetic variation consists of DNA methylation repatterning, posttranslational modification of histone proteins, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Epigenetic modifications are deeply involved in tumorigenesis and tumor development. Epigenetic abnormalities can be therapeutically reversed, and three families of epigenetic marks, including “readers”, “writers” and “erasers”, could be modulated by epi drugs. Over the past decade, ten small-molecule epi drugs (e.g., inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases) have been approved by FDA or CFDA for the treatment of different cancers. Epigenetics therapy has been most effective in oncology and has become an attractive area in cancer treatment. <p> Pulmonary hypertension (PH) encompasses a set of multifactorial diseases of progressive cardiopulmonary disorder. WHO classifies PH into five groups based on similar pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical presentation, haemodynamic characteristics, therapeutic management, and underlying etiology. Since PH shows many similarities with cancer, such as proliferation, resistance to apoptosis, and dysregulation of tumor suppressor genes, the current epigenetics therapeutic strategies used in cancer might be considered for the treatment of PH. The role of epigenetics in the setting of PH is a fast-growing field of research. In this review, we have summarized the up-to-date articles on the role of epigenetic mechanisms in the context of PH. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive insight from the epigenetics perspective and introduce the potential role of approved epi drugs in PH treatment.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Veno-occlusive Priapism, An Undesirable Outcome of Warfarin Therapy: A
Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131212</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Priapism is one of the urological emergencies requiring prompt medical or surgical intervention. The clinical diagnosis is made with adjunct cavernosal blood gas analysis and colour doppler ultrasound to determine the underlying aetiology; ischaemic or non-ischaemic, and the majority are veno-occlusive in origin (ischaemic). The occurrence of warfarin-induced priapism complicated with penile necrosis is a rare occurrence, and many cases are related to protein C deficiency. <p> Case Presentation: We report a case of warfarin therapy initiation following a thromboembolic event as a sequela of COVID-19 infection, subsequently developed veno-occlusive priapism complicated with penile gangrene despite being in an overwarfarinized state. The penis was non-salvageable following the gangrenous event, even with prior cavernosal blood aspiration. Thrombophilia panel screening, which includes Protein C activity was done where the protein C activity was low, measuring 23%. Unfortunately, he succumbed to death due to severe cardiorespiratory complications before this blood result was ready. <p> Discussion: Prompt diagnosis and treatment of priapism is needed to prevent loss of penile function. Priapism as a sequela of anticoagulant therapy should be suspected in a patient with recent anticoagulant initiation. Thus, immediate treatment can be administered to correct the underlying coagulation disorder. <p> Conclusion: The development of veno-occlusive priapism and penile gangrene in a patient on warfarin therapy raises a concern about protein C deficiency.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview on Sources, Biosynthesis and Bioactivities of Osthole: A
Potential Bioactive Compound]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130298</link><description><![CDATA[Different plants are rich in medicinal properties, which nature has provided in abundance for the living beings of this earth. Since the dawn of time, nature has proven to be a rich source of bioactive scaffolds that have been exploited in the creation of pharmaceuticals. Osthole is a natural coumarin derivative and potential bioactive compound found in plants. Herein, we aimed to review the origins, biology and pharmacological profiles of osthole, a plant-derived coumarin that is found in a variety of therapeutic plants, including Cnidium monnieri. Osthole, also called 7-methoxy-8-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)-2H-1-benzopyran-2-one, is a naturally occurring coumarin found to be present in different plants of the Apiaceae family, i.e., Cnidium monnieri and Angelica pubescens. The biological potential of the osthole in medicine has been investigated using a variety of literature databases. This study gathered diverse scientific research data on osthole from various literature sources and analysed, including Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and PubMed. From the collected data, it was found that osthole have potential pharmacological activities, such as anticancer, antioxidant, osteogenic, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-hyperglycaemic, neuroprotective, and antiplatelet. The data in this review paper supports the pharmacological potential of osthole, but to completely appreciate the pharmacological potential of this therapeutically powerful chemical, researchers must focus their efforts on further experimentation, biosafety profiling and synergistic effects of this compound. The purpose of this study was to learn more about the origins, biology, and therapeutic benefits of osthole in medicine in order to develop better treatments for human diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ion Channels-related Neuroprotection and Analgesia Mediated by Spider
Venom Peptides]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130414</link><description><![CDATA[Ion channels play critical roles in generating and propagating action potentials and in neurotransmitter release at a subset of excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Dysfunction of these channels has been linked to various health conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases and chronic pain. Neurodegeneration is one of the underlying causes of a range of neurological pathologies, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), cerebral ischemia, brain injury, and retinal ischemia. Pain is a symptom that can serve as an index of the severity and activity of a disease condition, a prognostic indicator, and a criterion of treatment efficacy. Neurological disorders and pain are conditions that undeniably impact a patient's survival, health, and quality of life, with possible financial consequences. Venoms are the best-known natural source of ion channel modulators. Venom peptides are increasingly recognized as potential therapeutic tools due to their high selectivity and potency gained through millions of years of evolutionary selection pressure. Spiders have been evolving complex and diverse repertoires of peptides in their venoms with vast pharmacological activities for more than 300 million years. These include peptides that potently and selectively modulate a range of targets, such as enzymes, receptors, and ion channels. Thus, components of spider venoms hold considerable capacity as drug candidates for alleviating or reducing neurodegeneration and pain. This review aims to summarize what is known about spider toxins acting upon ion channels, providing neuroprotective and analgesic effects.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Insights into Pharmacological Potential of Apigenin through Various Pathways on a Nanoplatform in Multitude of Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132148</link><description><![CDATA[Apigenin is a natural polyphenolic compound widely distributed as a glycoside in fruits and vegetables. Apigenin belongs to BCS class II with low solubility, which leads to poor absorption and bioavailability. It is mostly absorbed from the small intestine and extensively metabolized through glucuronidation and sulfation processes. Apigenin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a chemopreventive drug in the management of various cancers. Pharmacological effects of apigenin have a wide range, from neuroprotective to treating renal disorders. Apigenin is non-toxic in nature and acts through various pathways (JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB) to exert its therapeutic efficacy. Numerous formulations have been researched to enhance the bioavailability and pharmacological effects of apigenin. Combinatorial therapies are also researched to minimize the side-effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. The review presents pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of apigenin. Apigenin is safe for the treatment and management of numerous diseases. It can be easily incorporated into nanoformulation alone or in combination with other active ingredients to widen the therapeutic window. This review intends to help in drug optimization and therapeutic efficacy maximization for future studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Effect of Early Balloon Inflation of Balloon Guide Catheter in Mechanical
Thrombectomy for Large Vessel Occlusion]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130687</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: A balloon guide catheter (BGC) is widely used in mechanical thrombectomy (MT). However, the balloon inflation timing of BGC has not been clearly established. We evaluated whether balloon inflation timing of BGC affects the results of MT. </p><p> Methods: Patients who underwent MT with BGC for anterior circulation occlusion were enrolled. Patients were dichotomized into early and late balloon inflation groups, according to the timing of BGC inflation. Angiographic and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate the predictive factors for first-pass reperfusion (FPR) and successful reperfusion (SR). </p><p> Results: Of 436 patients, the early balloon inflation group showed a shorter procedure time (21 min (11-37) vs. 29 min (14-46), p = 0.014), a higher rate of SR with aspiration only (64.0% vs. 55.4%, p = 0.016), a lower aspiration catheter delivery failure rate (11.1% vs. 19.4%, p = 0.005), less frequent technique conversion (36.0% vs. 44.5%, p = 0.009), higher rate of FPR (58.2% vs. 50.2%, p = 0.011), and a lower rate of distal embolization (7.9% vs. 11.7%, P = 0.006), compared to the late balloon inflation group. In multivariate analysis, early balloon inflation was an independent predictor for FPR (odds ratio, OR 1.53, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.37–2.57; p = 0.011) and SR (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.18-1.64; p = 0.018). </p><p> Conclusion: Early balloon inflation of BGC enables an effective procedure than late balloon inflation. Early balloon inflation was associated with higher rates of FPR and SR.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Significance of Beta-Blocker in Patients with Hypertensive Left Ventricular
Hypertrophy and Myocardial Ischemia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129214</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Arterial Hypertension (HTN) is a key risk factor for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and a cause of ischemic heart disease (IHD). The association between myocardial ischemia and HTN LVH is strong because myocardial ischemia can occur in HTN LVH even in the absence of significant stenoses of epicardial coronary arteries. </p><p> Objective: To analyze pathophysiological characteristics/co-morbidities precipitating myocardial ischemia in patients with HTN LVH and provide a rationale for recommending beta-blockers (BBs) to prevent/treat ischemia in LVH. </p><p> Methods: We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, PubMed, Elsevier, Springer Verlag, and Google Scholar for review articles and guidelines on hypertension from 01/01/2000 until 01/05/2022. The search was limited to publications written in English. </p><p> Results: HTN LVH worsens ischemia in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Even without obstructive CAD, several pathophysiological mechanisms in HTN LVH can lead to myocardial ischemia. In the same guidelines that recommend BBs for patients with HTN and CAD, we could not find a single recommendation for BBs in patients with HTN LVH but without proven CAD. There are several reasons for the proposal of using some BBs to control ischemia in patients with HTN and LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). </p><p> Conclusion: Some BBs ought to be considered to prevent/treat ischemia in patients with HTN LVH (even in the absence of obstructive CAD). Furthermore, LVH and ischemic events are important causes of ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death; these events are another reason for recommending certain BBs for HTN LVH.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research on the Material Basis and Mechanism of Kudzu Root in Preventing
and Treating Cerebral Ischemia based on Network Pharmacology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127367</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: It has been shown that Kudzu root has significant pharmacological effects such as improving microcirculation, dilating coronary arteries, and increasing cerebral and coronary blood flow, but its material basis and mechanism of action are not clear. <p> Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action of Kudzu root in the prevention and treatment of cerebral ischemia (CI) through network pharmacology combined with animal experiments. <p> Methods: The components of kudzu root were screened by using the Chemistry Database, Chinese Academy of Science. Linpinski's five rules were used to perform pharmacophore-like analysis to obtain the active ingredients of Kudzu root. The Swiss Target Prediction Service database was used to predict the potential protein targets of kudzu root components associated with CI. An active ingredient-target network was constructed by using Cytoscape 3.6.0. A rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established, then the main targets and signaling pathways predicted were verified by observing the area of cerebral infarction and Western blot experiments. <p> Results: In total, 84 major active compounds and 34 targets included gerberoside, belonging to the isoflavone class, gallic acid, amino acid class, 4-Methylphenol, phenolic class, and quercetin, and flavonoid class (Flavonoids). The targets covered were proteins related to excitatory amino acids and calcium overload, including Excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (SLC1A2), Glutamate receptor ionotropic, kainate 1 (GRIK1), Glutamate receptor ionotropic, NMDA 1 (GRIN1), Glutamate receptor 2(GRIA2), Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), Neuronal nitric oxide synthase(nNOS). Glutamatergic energy is prominent, and calcium transport across the membrane is central to the network and occupies an important position. <p> Conclusion: Kudzu root can significantly reduce neurological damage in rats with CI, and also significantly reduce the rate of cerebral infarction. It is worth noting that Kudzu root can prevent and treat CI by reducing excitatory amino acid toxicity and improving calcium overload.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Value of MRI T2 FLAIR Vascular Hyperintensities Combined with DWI
ASPECTS in Predicting the Prognosis of Acute Cerebral Infarction with
Endovascular Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129195</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Objective: To explore the MRI T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) vascular hyperintensities (FVH) combined with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) in predicting the prognosis of acute cerebral infarction (ACI) with endovascular treatment. </p><p> Methods: The patients with ACI in the anterior circulation who underwent endovascular treatment from June 2016 to December 2020 were divided into a good prognosis group and a poor prognosis group according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days after the operation. The differences in general clinical baseline data, CT-ASPECTS, FVH, and DWI-ASPECTS between the two groups were analyzed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analyze the predictive power of prediction models on prognosis. </p><p> Results: The results of the Binomial Logistic regression equation showed initial National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS), Mori grade, DWI-ASPECTS, and FVH were independent risk factors for prognosis. The predictive power of the FVH + DWI-ASPECTS prediction model was highest, and the predictive power of DWI-ASPECTS was higher than that of CT-ASPECTS. </p><p> Conclusion: DWI-ASPECTS is better than CT-ASPECTS in predicting the prognosis of ACI with endovascular treatment, and the combined prediction model of FVH and DWI-ASPECTS has higher prediction performance, which can be used as a preoperative evaluation method to predict the effect of endovascular treatment for ACI.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biomarkers in Hypertension and Hypertension-related Disorders]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126470</link><description><![CDATA[Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is a major risk factor for several secondary diseases, especially cardiovascular and renal conditions. SAH has a high prevalence worldwide, and its precise and early recognition is important to prevent the development of secondary outcomes. In this field, the study of biomarkers represents an important approach to diagnosing and predicting the disease and its associated conditions. The use of biomarkers in hypertension and hypertension-related disorders, such as ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, transient ischemic attack, acute myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and chronic kidney disease, are discussed in this review. Establishing a potential pool of biomarkers may contribute to a non-invasive and improved approach for their diagnosis, prognosis, risk assessment, therapy management and pharmacological responses to a therapeutic intervention to improve patients' quality of life and prevent unfavorable outcomes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets: Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
in Left Carotid Artery Stenosis with Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130999</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Patients with left carotid artery atherosclerotic stenosis have an increased ischemic stroke risk. Left carotid stenosis, the most common cause of the transient ischemic attack, is related to a higher risk of acute stroke. Left carotid artery stenosis is also associated with cerebral artery infarction. The significant coronary stenosis promotes ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions. The severe coronary stenosis plays an important role in development and progression of myocardial infarction. However, the dynamic changes of circulating oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the carotid stenosis combined with coronary artery stenosis are not clear, and it also remains unknown whether mark of oxidative stress and inflammation are potential therapeutic targets for carotid stenosis combined with coronary artery stenosis. </p><p> Aim: This study aims to explore the effects of oxidative stress combined with an inflammatory response on left carotid artery stenosis with coronary artery disease in patients. </p><p> Methods: We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that levels of markers of oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with coexistent severe carotid and coronary artery stenosis in patients. We measured the circulating levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OX-LDL), homocysteine (Hcy), F2- isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-&#945;), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), prostaglandin E2 (PG-E2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-&#947;) in patients with combined carotid and coronary artery severe stenosis. We also assessed the relationships among oxidative stress, inflammation, and severe stenosis of the carotid with a coronary artery in patients. </p><p> Results: Levels of MDA, OX-LDL, Hcy, F2-IsoPs, TNF-&#945;, hs-CRP, PG-E2, and IFN-&#947; were remarkably increased (P < 0.001) in patients with combined carotid and coronary artery severe stenosis. High levels of oxidative stress and inflammation may be related to severe stenosis of the carotid with coronary arteries in patients. </p><p> Conclusion: Our observations indicated that measurements of oxidative stress and inflammatory markers may be valuable for the assessment of the degree of carotid with coronary artery stenosis. The biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammatory response may become therapeutic targets for carotid artery stenosis with coronary artery stenosis in patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pomegranate and Cognitive Performance: A Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130561</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cognitive dysfunction, such as dementia, is the most common neurological disorder that affects memory, perception, learning, and problem-solving. Emerging evidence suggests that nutritional factors may prevent or accelerate the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. </p><p> Objective: This systematic review was designed to evaluate the association between pomegranate treatment and cognitive function. </p><p> Methods: PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases were searched to extract original animal and human studies published until July 2021 without date restrictions. Firstly, 215 studies were retrieved via the search strategy. Irrelevant and duplicated studies were screened out, and critical analysis was used to obtain data. The articles&#039; quality and bias risks were assessed by OHAT and Cochrane Collaboration’s quality assessment tools. </p><p> Results: Finally, 24 articles (20 animal and 4 randomized controlled trial studies) were included in this review. All included animal and human studies indicated that pomegranate treatment was positively associated with improving specific domains of cognitive function. </p><p> Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that pomegranate treatment could improve cognitive function. Therefore, including pomegranate intake during daily life may lower the risk of cognitive impairment at the population level.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Does Diffusion Restriction Pattern on MRI Predict Stroke Etiology in a
Cancer Patient?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128537</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Stroke and cancer are two of the most common health problems. Moreover, stroke is more common in patients with cancer than in the normal population, due to coagulation problems. Knowing the etiology of stroke is important for determining treatment options. This study aimed to determine the relationship between ischemic lesion topographies using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the etiology of stroke in patients with cancer. <p> Patients and Methods: All patients with ischemic stroke in the Bezmialem Stroke Registry over a 4- year period were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Patients with acute ischemic stroke and additional diagnoses of solid and active malignancy (excluding hematologic malignancies) were included in the analysis. We investigated whether there was a relationship between the etiology of patients with cancer-related stroke according to the stroke etiologic classification and the diffusion restriction patterns on MRI. <p> Results: In this registry, 32 of 1472 patients were diagnosed as having active cancer. Fourteen patients were evaluated as having definite cardioembolism, eight patients as probable cardioembolism, and four patients had inadequate examinations. Only one patient was classified as having an atherothrombotic stroke. Isolated acute infarction was seen in 15 of 32 patients. In patients with multiple acute infarct areas (n=17), acute lesions characterized by micro embolisms in a single vessel area were detected in four patients, and acute lesions characterized by bilateral (anterior and/or posterior system) micro embolisms in more than one vessel area in 13 patients. <p> Conclusion: The most common etiology of stroke in patients with cancer was found to be embolic/ cardioembolic. This is important for the treatment plans for ischemic stroke in patients with cancer.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neuroprotective Effects of Shogaol in Metals (Al, As and Pb) and High-fat
diet-induced Neuroinflammation and Behavior in Mice]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126594</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Increased exposure of humans to toxic metals and high-fat diet (HFD) consumption severely damages brain health. Natural plant extracts have shown huge potential to treat multiple human diseases. <p> Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of Shogaol (an active component of ginger) in neuroinflammation and behavioral paradigms in mice treated with metals and HFD. <p> Methods: 8-11 weeks old male mice model was developed by giving a combination of metals, i.e., Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb) and Aluminum (Al), 25mg/kg each mixed in drinking water with laboratory prepared HFD (40% fat) for a total duration of 72 days. Shogaol treated groups received two doses (2mg/kg & 12mg/kg) of Shogaol along with metals and HFD. The biochemical parameters, including body weights, blood glucose, and kidney and liver functions, were assessed along with the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The expression analysis of neuroinflammatory genes (TNF-&#945;, IL-1&#946; & GFAP) was performed using q-PCR in the hippocampus and cortex. The exploratory and anxiety-like behavior was assessed using an open field test, and depressive behavior was assessed through the forced swim test, while learning and memory were assessed using the Morris water maze test and y-maze test. <p> Results: Shogaol (2mg/kg & 12mg/kg) treatment improved metabolic profile and reduced expression of neuroinflammatory genes in the cortex and the hippocampus. Shogaol treatment improved BBB integrity. Results of the behavioral analysis showed that Shogaol treatment (2mg/kg & 12mg/kg) rescued behavioral impairment and improved anxiety and depression. <p> Conclusion: Shogaol treatment showed strong therapeutic potential in metals & HFD induced neuroinflammation and improved cognitive functions; thus, can be considered a potential drug candidate in the future.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Therapeutic Approaches for Intravascular Microthrombi-induced Acute
Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in COVID-19 Infection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125062</link><description><![CDATA[The COVID-19 pandemic has overwhelmed our health care capacity in an unprecedented way due to the sheer number of critically infected patients admitted to hospitals during the last two years. Endothelial injury is seen as one of the central hallmarks of COVID-19 infection that is the starting point in the generation of microthrombi and sepsis eventually leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDs) and multi-organ failure. The dramatic fall in lung function during ARDs is attributed to the microthrombi-induced coagulopathy primed by a hyperactive immune system. Due to the lack of effective antiviral agents, the line of treatment is limited to the management of two key risk factors i.e., immune activation and coagulopathy. In the present review, we describe the mechanistic role, therapeutic targets, and opportunities to control immune activation and coagulopathy during the pathogenesis of COVID-19-induced ARDs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Graft Patency Assessment with CCTA Using a Comprehensive Singlebranch
Bridging Score]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126980</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Aims: This study aims to assess the prognostic value of graft patency with coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) using a comprehensive single-branch targeted atherosclerotic risk score (CSBS) in patients before coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). <P> Methods: This retrospective study contains a total of 88 patients who underwent clinical CCTA before off-pump CABG surgery between 2015 and 2018. Graft failure was defined as patients with missing multi-slice CCTA or coronary angiography. The predictive value of CSBS (ranging from 0-70 and divided into 2 groups: < 20 and ≥20) was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression models. <P> Results: Patients' mean age was 61.2 ± 10.5 years, with a mean follow-up of 20.4 ± 15.2 months. A total of 203 grafts (21.5% arterial grafts) were analyzed and 30 of the vessels were occluded (14.8%). There was no significant difference in graft occlusion among the three targeted vessel groups. The Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that CSBS < 20 was a significant predictor of graft failure. <P> Conclusion: Lower comprehensive single-branch targeted atherosclerotic risk score evaluated by CCTA is an independent prognostic factor for graft failure in patients before CABG surgery.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview of Thrombin Inhibitors in the Perspective of Structureactivity
Relationships]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126169</link><description><![CDATA[Thrombosis is one of the most important pathogenic factors related to cardiovascular diseases. Presently, thrombin inhibitors have gradually gained prominence in clinical practice due to their unique potential, such as dabigatran. Nevertheless, the risk of bleeding is not completely eliminated, and the threats of gastrointestinal bleeding are even increased in some cases. Therefore, developing new oral thrombin inhibitors with low side effects is urgent. In this paper, we summarized recent advances in the newly synthesized and isolated thrombin inhibitors from 2000 to 2019 and their structure-activity relationships (SARs) along with structure-dependent pharmacokinetic parameters, guiding the next generation of oral thrombin inhibitors.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Persistent Sciatic Artery with Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128579</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Persistent sciatic artery (PSA) is a congenital malformation due to incomplete involution during the embryonic period. Its etiology is unknown, with an estimated incidence of 0.02 - 0.04% in the whole population and a mean age of 60-65 years. Its presentation can be bilateral. It is asymptomatic in most cases and is usually detected accidentally; however, some symptoms may appear, such as claudication, sciatic neuralgia, and pain in the affected limb. It can also manifest as an aneurysmal dilatation or thrombosis that can generate distal embolism with ischemia. <p> Case Report: In this case study, a patient in her 90s with a suspected peripheral arterial disease, which required an angiotomography of the lower limb, showing a superficial femoral artery running to the middle and distal third of the thigh and a vascular structure running in the sciatic neurovascular bundle corresponding to a persistent sciatic artery presenting atherosclerotic changes and extensive occlusion, was presented. The patient&#039;s treatment was clinical with dual antiplatelet therapy and prophylactic anticoagulation. This was due to comorbidities and age. Moreover, the PSA occlusion was not critical and did not significantly impact the patient&#039;s quality of life. <p> Conclusion: Most patients with this anatomical variant are asymptomatic all their lives, but some of them may present symptoms with serious consequences. It is important to suspect it by clinical presentation and perform diagnostic confirmation by angiotomography. Treatment has yielded excellent results with endovascular techniques. Certain patients only require conservative treatment with anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Regulatory Mechanisms of Vanillic Acid in Cardiovascular Diseases:
A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126058</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the primary cause of death globally. Activation of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways are contributory to the development of CVD. Pharmacological activities of vanillic acid have been investigated suggesting that they may have therapeutic utility clinically. Given its phenolic nature, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of vanillic acid have been shown to exert potent inhibitory activity against Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK), Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF- κB), the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), Nod‐like receptor family protein (NLRP), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), Mitogen-Activated Signaling Proteins (MAPK) and Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. Vanillic acid has been shown to block pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppress inflammatory cascades. The inhibitory impact of vanillic acid on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxygen synthase (iNOS) expression has also been demonstrated. Vanillic acid reduces oxidative-related markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), Heme Oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Here, we review the cardioprotective effects and mechanisms of action of vanillic acid in CVD. Current potential applications of vanillic acid in CVD are discussed concerning preclinical and clinical studies.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Tetramethylpyrazine Attenuates Oxygen-glucose Deprivation-induced Neuronal
Damage through Inhibition of the HIF-1&#945;/BNIP3 Pathway: from Network
Pharmacological Finding to Experimental Validation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129515</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Aims: A network pharmacological analysis combined with experimental validation was used to investigate the neuroprotective mechanism of the natural product Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP). <P> Background: Protecting neurons is critical for acute ischemic stroke treatment. Tetramethylpyrazine is a bioactive component extracted from Chuanxiong. The neuroprotective potential of TMP has been reported, but a systematic analysis of its mechanism has not been performed. <P> Objective: Based on the hints of network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis, the mechanism by which TMP alleviates oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced neuronal damage through inhibition of the HIF-1&#945;/BNIP3 pathway was verified. <P> Methods: In this study, we initially used network pharmacology and bioinformatics analyses to elucidate the mechanisms involved in TMP&#039;s predictive targets on a system level. The HIF-1&#945;/BNIP3 pathway mediating the cellular response to hypoxia and apoptosis was considered worthy of focus in the bioinformatic analysis. An oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD)-induced PC12 cell injury model was established for functional and mechanical validation. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase leakage, intracellular reactive oxygen species, percentage of apoptotic cells, and Caspase-3 activity were determined to assess the TMP&#039;s protective effects. Transfection with siRNA/HIF-1&#945; or pcDNA/HIF-1&#945; plasmids to silence or overexpress hypoxia-inducible factor 1&#945; (HIF-1&#945;). The role of HIF-1&#945; in OGD-injured cells was observed first. After that, TMP&#039;s regulation of the HIF-1&#945;/BNIP3 pathway was investigated. The pcDNA3.1/HIF-1&#945;-positive plasmids were applied in rescue experiments. <P> Results: The results showed that TMP dose-dependently attenuated OGD-induced cell injury. The expression levels of HIF-1&#945;, BNIP3, and the Bax/Bcl-2 increased significantly with increasing OGD duration. Overexpression of HIF-1&#945; decreased cell viability, increased BNIP3 expression, and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio; siRNA-HIF-1&#945; showed the opposite effect. TMP treatment suppressed HIF-1&#945;, BNIP3 expression, and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and was reversed by HIF-1&#945; overexpression. <P> Conclusion: Our study shows that TMP protects OGD-damaged PC12 cells by inhibiting the HIF-1&#945;/BNIP3 pathway, which provides new insights into the mechanism of TMP and its neuroprotective potential.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Drug-Eluting Stent Restenosis: Modern Approach to a Classic Challenge]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128596</link><description><![CDATA[In-stent restenosis (ISR) is a recognized complication following percutaneous coronary intervention in which the luminal diameter is narrowed through neointimal hyperplasia and vessel remodeling. Although rates of ISR have decreased in most recent years owing to newer generation drug-eluting stents, thinner struts, and better intravascular imaging modalities, ISR remains a prevalent dilemma that proves to be challenging to manage. Several factors have been proposed to contribute to ISR formation, including mechanical stent characteristics, technical factors during the coronary intervention, and biological aspects of drug-eluting stents. Presentation of ISR can range from asymptomatic to late myocardial infarction and could be difficult to differentiate from acute thrombus formation. No definite guidelines are present on the management of ISR. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms underlying ISR and provide insight into patient-related and procedural risk factors contributing to ISR, in addition to highlighting common treatment approaches utilized in the management of ISR.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128365</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of mortality globally. Although substantial advances have been made in the diagnosis, management, and risk stratification of CAD, there is still a need for novel diagnostic biomarkers and new therapeutic targets to prevent the epidemic of the disease. Recently, growing evidence has linked dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) to cardiovascular diseases, including CAD. miRNAs are endogenous, stable, single-stranded, short, non-coding RNAs, and may have utility as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for CAD. Dysregulated miRNAs are involved in regulating lipid and glucose homeostasis pathways, reninangiotensin- aldosterone pathways, inflammation, endothelial and vascular smooth cell phenotypes promoting atherosclerotic plaque development, progression, and instability. Additionally, miRNAs are stable and easily accessible in the extracellular space, may reside in microvesicles, and are detectable in serum or plasma, making them attractive biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular disease. Accumulating studies suggest that miRNAs could be useful biomarkers for early discrimination of patients presenting with myocarditis or Takotsubo syndrome from those with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, early prognostication of patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes, and accurate detection of left ventricular remodeling after a chronic or acute ischemic event. Moreover, miRNAs represent potential novel therapeutic targets for CAD or other cardiovascular diseases. This review provides an overview of the effects of the entire spectrum of CAD, its major risk factors, and complications on levels of circulating miRNAs, as well as the limitations and challenges of their potential clinical applications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[High-throughput Sequencing and Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals the
Neurogenesis Key Targets of Curcumin Action in Mouse Brain with
MCAO]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125292</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Experimental studies have shown that curcumin exerts neuroprotective effects in animal models with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). However, the mechanisms of protective effects of curcumin in MCAO are not fully understood. <P> Objective: This study aims to investigate the key neurogenesis targets of curcumin action in mouse brain with MCAO. <P> Methods: The MCAO models were established in mice. High-throughput sequencing was used to identify differentially expressed mRNA, lncRNA, and circRNA. The reverse expressed mRNAs, lncRNA, and circRNA in sham vs. MCAO and MCAO vs. curcumin were identified. Biological functions were determined by gene ontology (GO) analyses. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of neurogenesis-related genes was constructed. Next, neurogenesis-related lncRNA/ circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA networks were constructed. <P> Results: The total of reverse expressed 1215 mRNAs, 32 lncRNAs, and 43 circRNAs were filtered based on the 2 series (sham vs. MCAO and MCAO vs. Curcumin). The functional enrichment analysis of 1215 reverse expressed mRNAs found that they were involved in neurogenesis, neuron generation, neurogenesis regulation, and others. The PPI network of neurogenesis-related genes consisted of 115 nodes, including 27 down-regulated genes and 36 up-regulated genes. Furthermore, the neurogenesis-related lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNAs networks were constructed, and 5 lncRNA ceRNA networks and 3 circRNA ceRNA networks were explored. <P> Conclusion: Our study revealed that curcumin exerts neuroprotective effects by regulating neurogenesis. The neurogenesis-related lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA networks are potential therapeutic targets of curcumin in MCAO. This study provided a theoretical basis for curcumin exerting neuroprotective effects in MCAO.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview of Pharmacological and Clinical Aspects of <i>Spirulina</i>]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127904</link><description><![CDATA[Spirulina or Arthrospira, a Cyanobacterium from the class Cyanophyceae, with a wide range of properties, has been applied for over 400 years. The present study aimed to review available investigations surrounding the clinical and pharmacological properties of Spirulina that have been carried out so far. Databases including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched for relevant literature using the keywords: (Spirulina), (pharmacology), and (clinical). About 130 papers that studied the pharmacological characteristics of Spirulina in animal models, as well as clinical trials, were selected from the beginning to 29 July 2021. According to this review, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, hypolipidemic, antiviral, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-atherogenic, anti-diabetic, and radio-protective functions are attributed to Spirulina. Moreover, Spirulina's positive influence on several organs, including hair, skin, liver, CNS, lung, and genitourinary tract, are ascribed to different components of various species of Spirulina such as Spirulina platensis, Spirulina fusiformis, and Spirulina maxima. Although so many studies have been accomplished on every aspect of Spirulina in recent years, the lack of a comprehensive investigation surrounding this microalga encouraged us to prepare this paper. Therefore, the present study could be considered an up-to-date overview of the clinical, pharmacological, and molecular aspects of Spirulina, resulting in more occupational research on this valuable organism.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Neuropharmacological Effects of Magnolol and Honokiol: A Review
of Signal Pathways and Molecular Mechanisms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121089</link><description><![CDATA[Magnolol and honokiol are natural lignans with good physiological effects. As the main active substances derived from Magnolia officinalis, their pharmacological activities have attracted extensive attention. It is reported that both of them can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and exert neuroprotective effects through a variety of mechanisms. This suggests that these two ingredients can be used as effective therapeutic compounds to treat a wide range of neurological diseases. This article provides a review of the mechanisms involved in the therapeutic effects of magnolol and honokiol in combating diseases, such as cerebral ischemia, neuroinflammation, Alzheimer's disease, and brain tumors, as well as psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Although magnolol and honokiol have the pharmacological effects described above, their clinical potential remains untapped. More research is needed to improve the bioavailability of magnolol and honokiol and perform experiments to examine the therapeutic potential of magnolol and honokiol.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Flavonoid Components of <i>Scutellaria baicalensis</i>: Biopharmaceutical
Properties and their Improvement using Nanoformulation Techniques]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127884</link><description><![CDATA[Scutellaria baicalensis georgi, known as “Huangqin” in its dried root form, is a herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for “clearing away heat, removing dampness, purging fire and detoxification”. Baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, and wogonoside are the main flavonoid compounds found in Scutellaria baicalensis. Scutellaria baicalensis flavonoid components have the potential to prevent and treat a host of diseases. The components of S. baicalensis have limited clinical application due to their low water solubility, poor permeability, and microbial transformation in vivo. Nanopharmaceutical techniques can improve their biopharmaceutical properties, enhance their absorption in vivo, and improve their bioavailability. However, due to the limited number of clinical trials, doubts remain about their toxicity and improvements in human absorption as a result of nanoformulations. This review summarizes the latest and most comprehensive information regarding the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the Scutellaria baicalensis components in vivo. We examined the main advantages of nanodrug delivery systems and collected detailed information on the nanosystem delivery of the Scutellaria baicalensis components, including nanosuspensions and various lipid-based nanosystems. Lipid-based systems including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and self-micro emulsifying drug delivery systems are introduced in detail. In addition, we make recommendations for related and future research directions. Future research should further examine the absorption mechanisms and metabolic pathways of nanoformulations of the components of Scutellaria baicalensis in vivo, and accurately track the in vivo behavior of these drug delivery systems to discover the specific reasons for the enhanced bioavailability of nanoformulations of the scutellaria baicalensis components. The development of targeted oral administration of intact nanoparticles of Scutellaria baicalensis components is an exciting prospect.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Nanoparticle and Stem Cell Combination Therapy for the Management of Stroke]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128235</link><description><![CDATA[Stroke is currently one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unfortunately, the available treatments for stroke are still extremely limited. Indeed, stem cell (SC) therapy is a new option for the treatment of stroke that could significantly expand the therapeutic time window of stroke. Some proposed mechanisms for stroke-based SC therapy are the incorporation of SCs into the host brain to replace dead or damaged cells/tissues. Moreover, acute cell delivery can inhibit apoptosis and decrease lesion size, providing immunomudolatory and neuroprotection effects. However, several major SC problems related to SCs such as homing, viability, uncontrolled differentiation, and possible immune response, have limited SC therapy. A combination of SC therapy with nanoparticles (NPs) can be a solution to address these challenges. NPs have received considerable attention in regulating and controlling the behavior of SCs because of their unique physicochemical properties. By reviewing the pathophysiology of stroke and the therapeutic benefits of SCs and NPs, we hypothesize that combined therapy will offer a promising future in the field of stroke management. In this work, we discuss recent literature in SC research combined with NP-based strategies that may have a synergistic outcome after stroke incidence.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Assessment of Atherosclerosis in Ischemic Stroke by means of Ultrasound
of Extracranial/Intracranial Circulation and Serum, Urine, and
Tissue Biomarkers]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125549</link><description><![CDATA[It is a common practice to take into consideration age, diabetes, smoking, treated and untreated systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol for the prediction of atherosclerosis and stroke. There are, however, ultrasound markers in use for the assessment of atherosclerosis and the evaluation of stroke risk. Two areas of investigation are of interest: the carotid artery and the intracranial arterial circulation. Again, within the domain of the carotid artery, two ultrasonic markers have attracted our attention: intima media thickness of the carotid artery and the presence of carotid plaque with its various focal characteristics. In the domain of intracranial circulation, the presence of arterial stenosis and the recruitment of collaterals are considered significant ultrasonic markers for the above-mentioned purpose. On the other hand, a series of serum, urine, and tissue biomarkers are found to be related to atherosclerotic disease. Future studies might address the issue of whether the addition of proven ultrasonic carotid indices to the aforementioned serum, urine, and tissue biomarkers could provide the vascular specialist with a better assessment of the atherosclerotic load and solidify their position as surrogate markers for the evaluation of atherosclerosis and stroke risk.]]></description> </item></channel></rss>