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                    <title><![CDATA[Aneurysm]]></title>

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                    <pubDate>Sun, 19 Jul 2026 21:21:21 +0000</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Aneurysm]]></title>

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

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

                    </image><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[Hydralazine Induced Vasculitis: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136008</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Hydralazine has been used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure for a long time. It has been associated with the development of Vasculitis and Drug induced lupus. This is a male patient in his sixties who was admitted at the hospital and prescribed hydralazine. He developed Hydralazine-induced lupus with Pancytopenia and renal failure. This case report has been written to raise awareness about the hydralazine side effects. <p> Case Presentation: This case report describes a 68-year-old male, transferred to our hospital for rehabilitation. He was tracheostomized. He is hypertensive with a history of CVA. BP was elevated during the admission. He has no family history of immunological diseases or any allergies. 6 months after hydralazine, the patient started to have a purpuric rash over the lower limbs and an elevated renal profile. Only Direct Coomb’s test was positive. He had hematuria and pancytopenia also. He was started on steroids and he became edematous. On March 2021, the hydralazine was stopped and the patient's blood tests improved, the rash disappeared and hematuria stopped. Unfortunately, he got fungemia and septicemia with pneumonia. He became hypotensive and anuric. The patient kept deteriorating and passed away. <p> Discussion: Hydralazine is not a first line choice for the treatment of hypertension. Common side effects include tachycardia and headache. It can also cause drug-induced lupus. <p> Conclusion: Hydralazine has been used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure for a long time. It has been associated with the development of Vasculitis and Drug induced lupus.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multiple, Extensive Cardiac and Pulmonary Hydatid Cysts Managed by a
Single-stage Surgical Removal: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133360</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Echinococcosis is a zoonotic infection that is characterised clinically by the development of hydatid cysts in different organs, mainly the liver and lungs. Cardiac involvement is rare but can lead to serious and fatal complications. <P> Case Report: We report a rare challenging case of multiple, extensive cardiac and pulmonary Echinococcal cysts that were treated by successful single-stage surgical resection via median sternotomy without additional thoracic incisions. <P> Conclusion: This article highlights the rare presentation of multiple, extensive cardiac and pulmonary Echinococcal cysts and how to overcome diagnostic challenges in the era of modern diagnostic imaging. Surgical removal remains the mainstay treatment, and a single-stage surgical approach is feasible in capable centres. Perioperative chemotherapy with Albendazole and the intraoperative use of scolicidal agents improved immediate surgical outcomes, although long-term effects could not be established in this case due to loss of follow-up.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cell Physiological Behavior in the Context of Local Hypothermia]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132813</link><description><![CDATA[Local hypothermia has protective effects on injured endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, and neurocytes. Unfortunately, the underlying mechanism of local hypothermia is still unknown. The overall effect of local hypothermia involves changes in cellular and extracellular homeostasis. Reduction in cellular metabolism is the hallmark effect of local hypothermia, resulting in a reduction in energy expenditure already impaired by starvation conditions, such as ischemia. However, on a molecular basis, local hypothermia modifies cell physiology according to the type and the vitality of the cells (brain cells are more important than skin cells; therefore, local hypothermia of the brain tissue is more critical than skin tissue, and the overall reaction of the organism is to prevent the brain from dying). This involves activating survival mechanisms, such as autophagy of brain tissue and apoptosis. The activated signaling pathways are not identical in various tissues. However, the whole machinery signaling axes have not yet been elucidated. Local hypothermia promotes the healing of the injury and improves the proliferation of regenerative tissue, but not differentiation. Hypothermia prevents the transdifferentiation of endothelial cells, neurons, and myocardiocytes. Finally, the therapeutic effects of hypothermia involve activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1).]]></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[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[A Network Medical Framework based on Inflammatory Genes to Identify Drug
Candidates for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131855</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Clinically, abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) can be treated with surgical intervention, but there is currently no effective drug for the disease. <P> Methods: This study analyzed the biomedical data of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), RNA-seq and the network medical data of drug-target interaction as well as protein-protein interaction to identify key targets and potential drug compounds of AAA. <P> Results: Firstly, we identified 10 types of cells from AAA and nonaneurysmal control samples and screened monocyte, mast cell, smooth muscle cell and 327 genes showing significant differences between non-dilated PVATs and dilated PVATs. To further explore the association of three types of cells in AAA, we screened the common DEGs associated with the three types of cells and then identified 10 potential therapeutic targets for AAA. SLC2A3 and IER3 were the key targets that were the most closely related to immune score and significantly related to inflammatory pathways. We then designed a network-based proximity measure to identify potential drugs targeting SLC2A3. Finally, with computer simulation, we found that the compound with the highest affinity to SLC2A3 protein was DB08213, which was embedded into the SLC2A3 protein cavity and formed close contact with various amino acid residues, and was stable during the 100-ns MD simulation. <P> Conclusion: This study provided a computational framework for drug design and development. It revealed key targets and potential therapeutic drug compounds for AAA, which might contribute to the drug development for AAA.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Early Prognostic Instrumental and Laboratory Biomarkers in Post-MI]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138078</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Post-myocardial infarction (MI) changes have been frequently reported in the literature and are associated with determining the prognosis. </p> <p> Aims: The aim of this study is to find a prognosis marker for the favorability of determination of the medium-term outcomes in patients with acute MI. </p> <p> Objectives: MI patients’ prognosis is poorly understood and requires further elaboration. </p> <p> Materials and Methods: A single center, cross-sectional cohort study involved 211 patients’ medical history with acute MI, for the period 2014-2019, had been evaluated retrospectively for 76 parameters. The data was collected from the Republic Rehabilitation Mordovian Hospital. The described measurement units were used in the local laboratories to describe the values. The descriptive values were expressed in the mean average and standard deviation. For statistical analysis, descriptive statistics, t-test independent by groups and dependent by numerical variables for repeated analysis for the same patients, multinomial logistic regression, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, ROC analysis, and for clarification purposes, diagrams and bar figures were used. For performing the statistical analysis, the SPSS program, version 28 was used. </p> <p> Results: Descriptive statistics showed a proportion of men to females 7:3. The mean age of the MI patients was 61.50 years (Std. Dev. ± 10.68), and the mean height of the sample was 171.00 cm (Std. Dev. ± 7.20). The mean body weight of the sample is 83.62 kg (Std. Dev. ± 12.35), and the body mass index (BMI) is 29.02 kg/m2 (Std. Dev. ± 5.07). The total hospitalization days are 14.79 (Std. Dev. ± 3.41). The mean heart rate (HR) beat per minute (bpm) was 79.03 (Std. Dev. ± 15.63), and the mean blood pressure was 138.53/84.09 mmHg (Std. Dev. ± 28.66/12.79). On the complete blood count (CBC), the mean level of the hemoglobin (Hb) 136.33 g/l (Std. Dev. ± 15.29), the mean level of the leukocytes (WBC) 8.76 /μl (Std. Dev. ± 2.77), the mean level of the red blood cells (RBC) 4.55 /μl (Std. Dev. ± 0.52), the mean level of the relative value of the lymphocytes 24.46 % (Std. Dev. ± 9.015), and the mean level of the thrombocytes 207.87 /μl (Std. Dev. ± 64.035). The mean erythrocytes segmentation rate (ESR) is 18.99 mm/hr (Std. Dev. ± 12.16). The regression analysis demonstrated that the dependent variable, complication, in particular, pericarditis, and the independent factor, concomitant disease, in particular, chronic heart failure, has a significant regression coefficient of 29.101 at p &#60;0.05. Furthermore, the dependent variable, complication, in particular, pneumonitis, and the independent factor, concomitant disease, particularly, arrhythmia, have a significant regression coefficient of 21.937 at p &#60;0.05. </p> <p> Conclusion: An elevated level of CPK-MB/LDH/Troponin I is linked to the development of arrhythmia. Patients with other medical conditions experience high diastolic blood pressure and an enlargement of the right ventricle. The early complication observed after MI is the formation of a left ventricular aneurysm. Complications arise due to low levels of potassium and calcium. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) contributes to the End-Diastolic Size (EDS) of the Left Ventricle (LV), Troponin I, and creatine phosphokinase-MB (CPK-MB). Advanced CKD patients have a hypertrophic left ventricle and persistently elevated post-myocardial Infarction (MI) cardiac biomarkers (CPKMB/ LDH/Troponin I) due to impaired kidney detoxification. Therefore, prolonged elevation of MI biomarkers can be an indicative of severe MI or kidney function impairment due to the chronic mild elevation in the MI biomarkers. Pericarditis development is related to the pre-existence of chronic heart failure. Moreover, pneumonitis development is related to the pre-existence of arrhythmia. </p> <p> Others: Hypertensive patients do not exhibit a significant increase in calcium levels, indicating that it is not a reliable biomarker in this patient population. Additionally, gender plays a crucial role in the development of ischemic heart disease, including myocardial infarction.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Case Report of Diffuse-type Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor as a Calcaneus
Mass: A Diagnostic Challenge]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138999</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Diffuse-type tenosynovial giant cell tumor (D-TGCT) originates from synovial cells in tendon sheaths and bursae and rarely presents as a calcaneal mass. <p> Case Report: A 44-year-old female presented with left heel pain that had persisted for over a year and had worsened over the past six months. A mass was found on the Lateral radiograph of the calcaneus, which was diagnosed as an aneurysmal bone cyst. Non-contrast computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)diagnosed a benign tumor. Based on light microscopy, special stains, and immunohistochemistry, a final diagnosis of diffuse tenosynovial giant cell tumor (D-TGCT) was rendered. <p> Results: D-TGCT is a slow-growing, infiltrative tumor that can form single or multiple masses outside the joint, and can also involve adjacent jointsmainly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knee, hip, and ankle. However, D-TGCT presents as a calcaneal mass, which poses a diagnostic challenge for all radiologists. <p> Conclusion: A calcaneal mass exhibiting well-defined borders, focal cortical destruction, a sclerotic rim, and T2WI hypointensity, the possibility of D-TGCT should be considered.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Assessment of the Characteristics of Patent Foramen Ovale Associated with
Cryptogenic Stroke]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138766</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: This study aims to comprehensively assess the characteristics of patent foramen ovale (PFO) in relation to Cryptogenic Strok (CS) by utilizing transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and contrast transthoracic echocardiography (c-TTE) and to identify high-risk factors associated with PFO-related CS. <p> Background: Transcatheter PFO closure has demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing PFO-related CS. Therefore, understanding the specific structural attributes of PFO associated with CS is imperative. <p> Methods: Enrollment comprised 113 test patients who experienced CS in conjunction with PFO and 117 control patients diagnosed with migraine with PFO but without a history of stroke. The characteristics of the PFO were observed by TEE and c-TTE. A comparative analysis was undertaken to assess the variations in PFO characteristics between the test patients and controls, and to uncover the independent factors relevant to CS. <p> Results: The patients in the test group were older than the controls. Both the height and length of the PFO during Valsalva exhibited greater dimensions in the test group when contrasted with controls. Notably, the test group presented higher incidence rates of low-angle PFO (defined as an angle between the inferior vena cava (IVC) and PFO ≤ 10°) and atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) as contrasted with the control group. Right-to-left shunt (RLS) III during Valsalva demonstrated a significantly elevated occurrence within the test group as opposed to the controls. Conversely, RLS II during Valsalva exhibited a significantly higher frequency in the controls in contrast to the tests. No significant disparities were observed between the two groups with respect to RLS I during Valsalva and all grades of RLS at rest. Multivariate analysis revealed that the length of the PFO during Valsalva, the presence of ASA, RLS III during Valsalva and low-angle PFO were independent relevant factors associated with CS. <p> Conclusions: The length of the PFO tunnel, low-angle PFO, RLS III during Valsalva and the presence of ASA were independent risk factors for CS. The combined utilization of TEE and c-TTE may prove valuable in identifying PFO patients at a heightened risk of CS and in facilitating the screening process for transcatheter PFO closure.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Dual-energy CT Portal Venography: Clinical Application Values and Future
Opportunities]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138644</link><description><![CDATA[Standard multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) uses a single X-ray tube to emit a mixed energy X-ray beam, which is received by a single detector. The difference is that dual-energy CT (DECT), a new equipment in recent years, employs a single X-ray tube or two X-ray tubes to emit two single-energy X-ray beams, which are received by a single or two detectors. The application of dual-energy technology to portal venography has become one of the research hotspots. This paper will elaborate on the clinical application values of DECT portal venography in improving portal vein image quality, distinguishing the nature of portal vein thrombus, reducing contrast agent dose and radiation dose, and will discuss the possibility of its movement from research to routine practice and future development opportunities.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Enhanced Regularized Ensemble Encoderdecoder Network for Accurate Brain
Tumor Segmentation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138554</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Segmenting tumors in MRI scans is a difficult and time-consuming task for radiologists. This is because tumors come in different shapes, sizes, and textures, making them hard to identify visually. <P> Objective: This study proposes a new method called the enhanced regularized ensemble encoder-decoder network (EREEDN) for more accurate brain tumor segmentation. <P> Methods: The EREEDN model first preprocesses the MRI data by normalizing the intensity levels. It then uses a series of autoencoder networks to segment the tumor. These autoencoder networks are trained using back-propagation and gradient descent. To prevent overfitting, the EREEDN model also uses L2 regularization and dropout mechanisms. <P> Results: The EREEDN model was evaluated on the BraTS 2020 dataset. It achieved high performance on various metrics, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and dice coefficient score. The EREEDN model outperformed other methods on the BraTS 2020 dataset. <P> Conclusion: The EREEDN model is a promising new method for brain tumor segmentation. It is more accurate and efficient than previous methods. Future studies will focus on improving the performance of the EREEDN model on complex tumors.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Iatrogenic Pseudoaneurysm with Acute Arterial Thrombosis in Multiple
Branches of the Lower Limbs Treated by Ultrasound-guided Thrombin
Injection: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138466</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Abstract: Introduction: With the development of vascular intervention, pseudoaneurysm complications are increasing. Ultrasound-guided thrombin injection (UGTI) is currently the treatment of choice for pseudoaneurysm, but the pharmacological properties of thrombin may trigger acute thrombosis within the vessel lumen. Despite a very low incidence, this type of primary arterial thrombosis is a serious complication of UGTI, and cases involving multiple branches of the lower limb arteries are particularly rare. <P> Case Presentation: Here, we report a case of a 65-year-old male who underwent UGTI for the treatment of an iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm of the femoral artery complicated by acute thrombosis of multiple arteries in the lower limbs, and the patient ultimately underwent a successful thrombectomy. <P> Conclusion: We reviewed the case and analyzed the possible etiologic causes, providing a reference for future clinical work.</P>]]></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[The Application Value of Gemstone Spectral Imaging (GSI) Combined with an
80 mm Wide-body Detector in Head-neck CTA]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135964</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Objective: This study aims to investigate the value of gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) combined with an 80 mm wide-body detector in head-neck CTA. <P> Methods: Ninety patients with head-neck CTA were prospectively selected and randomly divided into a control group and a test group, with 45 patients in each group. The control group was scanned conventionally. With a tube voltage of 100 kVp and detector width of 40 mm, a 70 ml contrast agent was injected at a flow rate of 5.0 ml/s. The test group used GSI. With a tube current fixed of 445 mAs and a detector width of 80 mm, the contrast agent was injected at a flow rate of 3.5 ml/s and 0.6 ml/kg body weight, and the 55 keV virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) were automatically reconstructed. Finally, the target vessel CT values, background noise (BN), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), subjective scores, contrast agent dose, CT dose index volume (CTDIvol), and dose length product (DLP) were recorded. The DLP was converted to the effective dose (ED). <P> Results: The target vessel CT values, BN, SNR, CNR, and subjective scores of the two groups were not statistically significant (all P > 0.05), and the image quality of both groups was the same and met the diagnostic requirements. The contrast agent dose and effective dose (ED) in the test group were approximately 44% and 26% lower than that of the control group, respectively (all P &#60; 0.05). <P> Conclusion: In head-neck CTA examination, the Revolution CT GSI combined with an 80 mm wide-body detector can reduce the contrast agent dose and radiation dose while ensuring image quality.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multidisciplinary Management of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in Paediatric Patients:
A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135518</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: The aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign neoplasm that tends to form the appearance of a mass with a bony septum that forms cavities with blood inside. It is estimated to represent 1% of bone tumours and has an incidence of 0.14 per 100,000 people worldwide. Current publications have not shown a multidisciplinary approach that can benefit patients, mainly in the functionality and quality of the management approach. <p> Objective: Describe the multidisciplinary approach and the benefits of quality of life and functionality in this diagnosis. <p> Case presentation: A paediatric patient was diagnosed with an aneurysmal bone cyst located in the cervical spine, which initially manifested with muscle pain, enlargement of the posterior cervical region, and difficulty in performing arcs of movement. He was treated with multidisciplinary management with surgery, embolisation, radiation, and bisphosphonate support. <p> Conclusion: The purpose of approaching multidisciplinary management helped to improve the accompanying symptoms that prevented our patient from having an active and quality life. However, more successful cases have not been reported to establish the best therapeutic protocol.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Subcutaneous Cavernous Haemangioma in a Patient with Klippel-Trenaunay
Syndrome: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135455</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare congenital disease that mainly involves blood vessels and is characterized by the presence of capillary malformations (port wine stains), varicose veins, soft tissue and/or bone hypertrophy. <P> Case Presentation: We report a 28-year-old man who was diagnosed 20 years ago with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. Approximately 3 years ago, he found enlarged masses on both upper extremities and a new dark red mass that was pathologically diagnosed as cavernous haemangioma appeared on the right index finger. <P> Conclusion: KTS is a rare and potentially multisystem disease requiring multidisciplinary management for which imaging examination is an important auxiliary diagnostic method. Various complications may occur during its development, so regular follow-up is required to prevent serious accidents.</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[Multimodal Medical Image Fusion Utilizing Two-scale Image Decomposition via
Saliency Detection]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135266</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Modern medical imaging modalities used by clinicians have many applications in the diagnosis of complicated diseases. These imaging technologies reveal the internal anatomy and physiology of the body. The fundamental idea behind medical image fusion is to increase the image's global and local contrast, enhance the visual impact, and change its format so that it is better suited for computer processing or human viewing while preventing noise magnification and accomplishing excellent real-time performance. Objective: The top goal is to combine data from various modal images (CT/MRI and MR-T1/MR-T2) into a solitary image that, to the greatest degree possible, retains the key characteristics (prominent features) of the source images. <p> Methods: The clinical accuracy of medical issues is compromised because innumerable classical fusion methods struggle to conserve all the prominent features of the original images. Furthermore, complex implementation, high computation time, and more memory requirements are key problems of transform domain methods. With the purpose of solving these problems, this research suggests a fusion framework for multimodal medical images that makes use of a multi-scale edge-preserving filter and visual saliency detection. The source images are decomposed using a two-scale edge-preserving filter into base and detail layers. Base layers are combined using the addition fusion rule, while detail layers are fused using weight maps constructed using the maximum symmetric surround saliency detection algorithm. <p> Results: The resultant image constructed by the presumed method has improved objective evaluation metrics than other classical methods, as well as unhindered edge contour, more global contrast, and no ringing effect or artifacts. <p> Conclusion: The methodology offers a dominant and symbiotic arsenal of clinical symptomatic, therapeutic, and biomedical research competencies that have the prospective to considerably strengthen medical practice and biological understanding.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Radiological Features of Rare Non-odontogenic Lesions of the Jaws]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134204</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The jaws can be affected by several lesions that manifest in the oral cavity, but little is known about non-odontogenic benign and malignant lesions and their radiological findings. <P> Introduction: Our aim was to discuss the imaging findings of non-odontogenic jaw lesions to help the surgeon in the diagnosis and formulating a differential diagnosis for this vast spectrum of jaw lesions with overlapping clinical and imaging appearances. <P> Methods: CT and MR images of the mandible, maxillofacial region, and neck were retrieved from the archive of the Radiology Department of Pamukkale University for the duration between 2012-2023 and assessed. <P> Results: A total of 8125 CT and MR images were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 39.5 years in females and 43.2 in males, with a range varying from 15 to 72 years. Histopathologically approved benign and malignant non-odontogenic lesions were detected in only 19 patients out of 8125 images (0.23%). Osteomyelitis and abscess were the most common (n=3; 0.03%), followed by two cases (n=2; 0.02%) of each fibrous dysplasia, hemangioma, osteosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and multiple myeloma, and one case (n=1; 0.01%) of each ossifying fibroma, osteoma, lymphoma, metastasis, and solitary bone cyst. <P> Conclusion: Although non-odontogenic benign and malignant lesions of the jaw are rare, awareness of the radiological features of these lesions plays an important role in their diagnosis and management.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Extra-articular Ganglion Cyst with Multiple Fluid-fluid Levels]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133461</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Ganglion cysts are the knee’s most common benign soft tissue tumors. Ganglion cysts are seen as multiloculated fluid collections on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluid-fluid levels are not an expected finding. <P> Case Presentation: A 36-year-old female patient presented with swelling in her right knee. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a multiseptated cyst with multiple fluid-fluid levels within the anterior of the right patellar tendon. Open surgical excision was performed, and the pedicle of the cyst was dissected. The histopathology revealed a ganglion cyst with hemorrhage. <P> Conclusion: The ganglion cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lesions with fluid-fluid levels, in addition to hemangioma, synovial sarcoma, and aneurysmal bone cysts of soft tissues.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Comparative Analysis of Ultrasound Diagnosis and Pathological Characteristics
of External Jugular Venous Aneurysm]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132898</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis of the external jugular venous aneurysm on color Doppler ultrasound and its relationship with pathological characteristics. <P> Methods: A retrospective analysis of 17 patients with external jugular venous aneurysm admitted to the Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University from May, 2010, to June, 2020, was performed. The color Doppler ultrasound characteristics of 17 patients with external jugular vein aneurysms were analyzed and summarized, which were then compared with postoperative pathological outcomes. <P> Results: All 17 patients with external jugular venous aneurysms were presented with cystic structures adjacent to and communicated with the external jugular vein. Color Doppler flow imaging showed a bidirectional venous flow signal in the communication between the cystic structure and the external jugular vein. Among the 17 patients, ultrasound diagnosis showed true venous aneurysm due to degenerative changes in the venous wall in 8 cases, venous pseudoaneurysm in 4 cases, and external jugular venous aneurysm in 5 cases, and postoperative pathology indicated degenerative changes in the venous wall in all 17 patients. <P> Conclusion: Bidirectional blood flow at the communication between the cystic lesion and the external jugular vein on color Doppler ultrasound should not be the criterion for the diagnosis of external jugular venous pseudoaneurysm, which requires pathological support.</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[3D Synthetic Brain MRI with Compressed Sensing: Can It be a Promising way
Forward for Daily Neuroimaging?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132472</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Synthetic MRI can provide multiple contrast-weighted brain images with high resolution from a single scan via a 3D sequence using an interleaved Look-Locker acquisition sequence with a T2 preparation pulse (3D-QALAS). <P> Objective: This study aimed to assess the diagnostic image quality of 3D synthetic MRI using compressed sensing (CS) in clinical practice. <P> Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the imaging data of 47 patients who underwent brain MRI, including 3D synthetic MRI using CS in a single session, between December 2020 and February 2021. Two neuroradiologists independently evaluated the overall image quality, anatomic demarcation, and artifacts for synthetic 3D T1-weighted, T2-weighted, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), phase-sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR), and double inversion recovery images, using a 5-point Likert scale. The interobserver agreement between the two readers was assessed using percent agreement and weighted κ statistics. <P> Results: The overall image quality of 3D synthetic T1WI and PSIR was good to excellent, with easy or excellent anatomic demarcation and mild or no visible artifact. However, other 3D synthetic MRI-derived images showed insufficient image quality and anatomic demarcation with marked CSF pulsation artifacts. In particular, 3D synthetic FLAIR showed high-signal artifacts on the brain surface. <P> Conclusion: 3D synthetic MRI, at its current status, cannot completely replace conventional brain MRI in daily clinical practice. However, 3D synthetic MRI can achieve scan-time reduction using CS and parallel imaging and may be useful for motion-prone or pediatric patients requiring 3D images where time-efficiency is important.</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[Pseudoaneurysm of a Lumbal Artery: CT-guided Treatment with Nonadhesive
Liquid Embolic Agent]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130321</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: A 65-year-old patient presented with subtle lumbalgia twenty days following his failed endovascular retrograde recanalization of the right iliac artery, followed by a surgical femoral-femoral left-to-right by-pass graft. <p> Case Presentation: Computer tomography angiography (CTA) revealed a left-sided 18 mm large pseudoaneurysm (PA) at the level of L5 lumbar vertebrae adjacent to the aorta. This lumbal artery originated from the false lumen of the known chronic infrarenal aortic dissection. Within a single session, the pseudoaneurysm was treated by percutaneous nonadhesive liquid embolic agent (NALEA - Onyx 34) embolization under CT-fluoroscopy guidance. Follow-up imaging showed complete occlusion of the PA. <p> Conclusion: This case shows the first usage of Onyx as a liquid embolic agent for this complication.</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[Coexistence of Large Meningioma and Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case
Report and Literature Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130096</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction The simultaneous presence of a giant intracranial meningioma and an arteriovenous malformation(AVM)in the same cerebral hemisphere is extremely rare. The treatment should be individualized depending on the case. <p> Case Presentation A 49-year-old man presented with hemiparesis. Preoperative neuroimaging revealed a giant lesion and an AVM on the left hemisphere of the brain. Craniotomy and tumour resection were performed. The AVM was not treated and needed to be followed up. The histological diagnosis was meningioma (World Health Organization grade I). The patient was in good neurological condition postoperatively. <p> Conclusion This case adds to the growing literature suggesting that the association between the two lesions is complex. Besides, treatment depends on the risk of neurologic function damage and hemorrhagic stroke of meningiomas and AVMs.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Fistulized Giant Duodenal Stromal Tumor in a Young Patient: A Case Report
With Literature Review for Tomographic Diagnosis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129788</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of periampullary region pathologies. <P> Case Report: A 24-year-old male patient applied to the general surgery department with the complaint of long-standing abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting after meals, and 8-10 kg weight loss in 1 month. Three-phase dynamic abdominopelvic CT showed that the 1st and the 2nd segments of the duodenum were dilated. At this level, a peripherally intensely contrasted heterogeneous mass lesion, 91x70x46 mm in size, was observed. There was oral contrast and air values in the center of the mass. A fistulized mass connected with the duodenal wall was considered in the differential diagnosis. In the surgical exploration, a soft, vascularized mass fistulized to the 2nd segment of the duodenum was observed. Pathological diagnosis was reported as GIST. <P> Conclusion: GISTs arise from the precursors of Cajal Interstitial cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Contrast-enhanced CT is the preferred diagnostic method for staging, risk stratification, and follow-up. We presented a young case with a giant duodenal GIST and discussed differential diagnosis and some diagnostic properties.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Protective Effect of Statin Therapy in Ankylosing Spondylitis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137719</link><description><![CDATA[Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a complex autoimmune and auto-inflammatory disorder characterized by a gradual onset that can progress to spinal ankylosis over time. This chronic condition primarily affects the sacroiliac joints and the spine, often extending its influence to peripheral joints and extra-articular organs, including the eyes AS is associated with significant disability, along with comorbidities such as uveitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Moreover, individuals with AS face an elevated risk of mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). This paper explores the potential benefits of statins, known for their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, in mitigating AS-related cardiovascular risk and their therapeutic effects on disease activity.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Transcription Factor MAZ Potentiates the Upregulated NEIL3-mediated Aerobic Glycolysis, thereby Promoting Angiogenesis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138449</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by high vascularity and notable abnormality of blood vessels, where angiogenesis is a key process in tumorigenesis and metastasis. The main functions of Nei Like DNA Glycosylase 3 (NEIL3) include DNA alcoholization repair, immune response regulation, nervous system development and function, and DNA damage signal transduction. However, the underlying mechanism of high expression NEIL3 in the development and progression of HCC and whether the absence or silencing of NEIL3 inhibits the development of cancer remain unclear. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which increased NEIL3 expression promotes cancer development is needed. </p> <p> Methods: Expression of NEIL3 and its upstream transcription factor MAZ in HCC tumor tissues was analyzed in bioinformatics efforts, while validation was done by qRT-PCR and western blot in HCC cell lines. The migration and tube formation capacity of HUVEC cells were analyzed by Transwell and tube formation assays. Glycolytic capacity was analyzed by extracellular acidification rate, glucose uptake, and lactate production levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and dual-luciferase reporter gene assays were utilized to investigate specific interactions between MAZ and NEIL3. </p> <p> Results: NEIL3 and MAZ were substantially upregulated in HCC tissues and cells. NEIL3 was involved in modulating the glycolysis pathway, suppression of which reversed the stimulative impact of NEIL3 overexpression on migration and angiogenesis in HUVEC cells. MAZ bound to the promoter of NEIL3 to facilitate NEIL3 transcription. Silencing MAZ reduced NEIL3 expression and suppressed the glycolysis pathway, HUVEC cell migration, and angiogenesis. </p> <p> Conclusion: MAZ potentiated the upregulated NEIL3-mediated glycolysis pathway and HCC angiogenesis. This study provided a rationale for the MAZ/NEIL3/glycolysis pathway as a possible option for anti-angiogenesis therapy in HCC.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Emerging Treatments for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138718</link><description><![CDATA[The current landscape of therapeutic strategies for subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a significant adverse neurological event commonly resulting from the rupture of intracranial aneurysms, is rapidly evolving. Through an in-depth exploration of the natural history of SAH, historical treatment approaches, and emerging management modalities, the present work aims to provide a broad overview of the shifting paradigms in SAH care. By synthesizing the historical management protocols with contemporary therapeutic advancements, patient-specific treatment plans can be individualized and optimized to deliver outstanding care for the best possible SAH-related outcomes.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Vasospasm in Pediatric Subarachnoid Hemorrhage]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136305</link><description><![CDATA[Cerebral vasospasm (CV) is a common severe complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a severe type of intracranial bleeding that is uncommon in children. The purpose of this article is to review the current literature regarding this potentially devastating complication. CV may be asymptomatic and is less common in children compared to adults. Several molecular phenomena, including inflammatory ones, contribute to its pathophysiology. Better collateral circulation and higher cerebral blood flow are protective factors in children. When clinically apparent, CV may manifest as a change in the child’s neurologic status or vital signs. CV can be diagnosed using brain vessel imaging, such as computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, digital subtraction angiography, transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, and computed tomography perfusion. A reduction of < 50% in the artery’s caliber confirms the diagnosis. Besides general supportive measures and causative treatment of SAH, CV management options include the administration of calcium channel blockers and neurointerventional approaches, such as intra-arterial vasodilators and balloon angioplasty. Long-term outcomes in children are usually favorable.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Landscape of Randomized Clinical Trial Meta-analyses on Statins for
Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Scoping Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134812</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a type of non-traumatic SAH that can have detrimental effects on the central nervous system, resulting in severe disability or death. </p> <p> Methods: Early nimodipine is currently the only strongly recommended pharmacological treatment that has shown efficacy in improving neurological/functional outcomes in aSAH patients. Whether statin treatment is of benefit to aSAH patients is an issue that has generated considerable interest and debate. In the present scoping review, we mapped and analyzed the available literature on metaanalyses of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) examining the effect of statins on aSAH. Seventeen meta-analyses of RCTs, published between 2008 and 2023, were identified. </p> <p> Results: Treatments in included meta-analyses were based on various regimens of simvastatin, pravastatin, pitavastatin or atorvastatin for up to 21 days. Eleven of the included reports indicated some beneficial effect of statin treatment, reducing rates of at least one of the following: cerebral vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia/delayed ischemic neurologic deficit, mortality or functional/ neurological outcome. In contrast, six meta-analyses, showed no such effects. </p> <p> Conclusion: The limitations reported by several meta-analyses, included low patient numbers or disproportionate representation of patients from certain RCTs, differences in drug treatment, patient diagnostic criteria and outcome evaluation between RCTs, as well as poor data quality or lack of RCTs data. Knowledge of the reported limitations may aid the design of future clinical trials and/or their meta-analyses.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Flow Diversion for the Management of Posterior Circulation’s
Intracranial Aneurysms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132675</link><description><![CDATA[The endovascular treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms, although challenging, has been well-established due to various factors that limit the surgical approach in most cases. Flow diversion has also been utilized in the treatment of such aneurysms, although its effectiveness and safety still require evaluation. Numerous studies have examined the outcomes and complication rates in patients treated with FD, resulting in varying findings. This review aimed to summarize the most recent literature concerning the effectiveness of flow diversion devices in posterior circulation aneurysms. Additionally, it highlights reports that compare results in the posterior versus anterior circulation, as well as flow diversion versus stent-assisted coiling.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Atrial Septal Abnormalities and Cryptogenic Stroke: A Cross-Sectional
Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/140059</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cryptogenic stroke, whose underlying pathology is unknown, accounts for 30-40% of all ischemic strokes. Studies have mentioned the association between atrial septal abnormalities and cryptogenic stroke, but there are still disparities in the results among different studies. </p> <p> Objective: We aimed to clarify the prevalence of atrial septal abnormalities in patients with cryptogenic stroke. </p> <p> Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on 91 patients with cryptogenic stroke/transient ischemic attack from March 2021 to March 2022. We evaluated the demographic data of the patients and also the existence of neurologic attacks. Furthermore, echocardiography was performed to determine the type of atrial septal abnormality. </p> <p> Results: Out of 91 patients with cryptogenic stroke/transient ischemic attack, 16 patients (17.5%) had patent foramen ovale, 1 man (1.1%) had atrial septal aneurysm, and 1 woman (1.1%) had an atrial septal defect. Patients with patent foramen ovale were significantly younger than those without. The size of patent foramen ovale in patients with cryptogenic stroke was larger than those with transient ischemic attack, but this difference was not significant. Also, the size of the patent foramen ovale (length and width) was not significantly related to any of the demographic variables (p-value = 0.544, 0.604). </p> <p> Conclusion: Based on our results, the prevalence of atrial septal abnormalities was relatively high. Considering these issues and the importance of preventing neurological accidents in patients, especially young people, it is recommended to always consider atrial septal disorders and, if diagnosed, to carry out the necessary treatment in this field.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Length of Survival, Outcome, and Potential Predictors in Poor-Grade
Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients Treated with
Microsurgical Clipping]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135346</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) has been associated with severe morbidity and high mortality. It has been demonstrated that early intervention is of paramount importance. The aim of our study is to evaluate the functional outcome and the overall survival of early microsurgically treated patients. </p> <p> Material and Methods: Poor-grade aSAH patients admitted at our institution over fifteen years (January 2008 - December 2022) were included in our retrospective study. All participants underwent brain Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA). Fisher scale was used to assess the severity of hemorrhage. All our study participants underwent microsurgical clipping, and their functional outcome was assessed with the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). We used logistic regression analysis to identify any parameters associated with a favorable outcome at 12 months. Cox proportional hazard analysis was also performed, identifying factors affecting the length of survival. </p> <p> Results: Our study included 39 patients with a mean age of 54 years. Thirty of our participants (76.9%) were Hunt and Hess grade V, while the vast majority (94.9%) were Fisher grade 4. The observed six-month mortality rate was 48.6%. The mean follow-up time was 18.6 months. The functional outcome at six months was favorable in 6 patients (16.2%), increased to 23.5% at 12 months. Our data analysis showed that the age, as well as the employment of temporary clipping during surgery, affected the overall outcome. </p> <p> Conclusion: Management of poor-grade aSAH patients has been dramatically changed. Microsurgical clipping provides promising results in carefully selected younger patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Expression of Circulating miR-21 and -29 and their Association with
Myocardial Fibrosis in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138201</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis, and sarcomeric disarray. <P> Objective: To evaluate the expression levels of circulating miR-21 and -29 in patients with HCM and their association with clinical characteristics and myocardial fibrosis. <P> Methods: In this case-control study, 27 subjects with HCM, 13 subjects with hypertensive cardiomyopathy, and 10 control subjects were enrolled. Evaluation of patients’ functional capacity was made by the six-minute walk test. Echocardiographic measurements of left ventricle systolic and diastolic function were conducted. Cardiac magnetic resonance late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) -through a semiquantitative evaluation- was used in the assessment of myocardial fibrosis extent in HCM patients. The expression of miR-21 and -29 in peripheral blood samples of all patients was measured via the method of quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. <P> Results: Circulating levels of miR-21 were higher in both hypertensive and HCM (p<0.001) compared to controls, while expression of miR-29 did not differ between the three studied groups. In patients with HCM and LGE-detected myocardial fibrosis in more than 4 out of 17 myocardial segments, delta CT miR-21 values were lower than in patients with myocardial LGE in 3 or fewer myocardial segments (2.71 ± 1.06 deltaCT vs. 3.50 ± 0.55 deltaCT, p<0.04), indicating the higher expression of circulating miR-21 in patients with more extensive myocardial fibrosis. <P> Conclusion: MiR-21 was overexpressed in patients with HCM and hypertensive cardiomyopathy. Importantly, in patients with HCM, more extensive myocardial fibrosis was associated with higher levels of miR-21.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Microarray-based Detection of Critical Overexpressed Genes in the
Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease:
A Protein-protein Interaction Network Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131823</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent cause of chronic liver disease and encompasses a broad spectrum of disorders, including simple steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. However, due to the global epidemic of NAFLD, where invasive liver biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis, it is necessary to identify a more practical method for early NAFLD diagnosis with useful therapeutic targets; as such, molecular biomarkers could most readily serve these aims. To this end, we explored the hub genes and biological pathways in fibrosis progression in NAFLD patients. <P> Methods: Raw data from microarray chips with GEO accession GSE49541 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the R package (Affy and Limma) was applied to investigate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in the progress of low- (mild 0-1 fibrosis score) to high- (severe 3-4 fibrosis score) fibrosis stage NAFLD patients. Subsequently, significant DEGs with pathway enrichment were analyzed, including gene ontology (GO), KEGG and Wikipathway. In order to then explore critical genes, the protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was established and visualized using the STRING database, with further analysis undertaken using Cytoscape and Gephi software. Survival analysis was undertaken to determine the overall survival of the hub genes in the progression of NAFLD to hepatocellular carcinoma. <P> Results: A total of 311 significant genes were identified, with an expression of 278 being upregulated and 33 downregulated in the high vs. low group. Gene functional enrichment analysis of these significant genes demonstrated major involvement in extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, protein digestion and absorption, and the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. The PPI network was constructed with 196 nodes and 572 edges with PPI enrichment using a p-value < 1.0 e-16. Based on this cut-off, we identified 12 genes with the highest score in four centralities: Degree, Betweenness, Closeness, and Eigenvector. Those twelve hub genes were CD34, THY1, CFTR, COL3A1, COL1A1, COL1A2, SPP1, THBS1, THBS2, LUM, VCAN, and VWF. Four of these hub genes, namely CD34, VWF, SPP1, and VCAN, showed significant association with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. <P> Conclusion: This PPI network analysis of DEGs identified critical hub genes involved in the progression of fibrosis and the biological pathways through which they exert their effects in NAFLD patients. Those 12 genes offer an excellent opportunity for further focused research to determine potential targets for therapeutic applications.</P>]]></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[The Safety and Efficacy of Leo Stents with Coiling or Alone for Anterior Cerebral Artery Aneurysms]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136642</link><description><![CDATA[Introduction: Treatment of anterior cerebral artery (ACA) aneurysms is still not well established. The Leo stent with blood flow direction is a retrievable stent for intracranial aneurysms, whereas it needs to be studied clearly in patients with ACA aneurysms. <p> Methods: Consecutive patients with ACA aneurysms were retrospectively enrolled in three neurosurgical centers between January 2016 and October 2021. The data on demographics, aneurysm characteristics, symptom resolution, and postoperative course were collected and analyzed. The aneurysm occlusion status was appraised by Raymond-Ray Occlusion Class (RROC). <p> Results: A total of 57 patients with ACA aneurysms were included in our study. Immediate postprocedural angiograms showed that 20 aneurysms (35.1%) were in complete occlusion (RROC 1), 26 aneurysms (45.6%) were in near-complete occlusion (RROC 2), 11 aneurysms (19.3%) were in incomplete occlusion (RROC 3). The angiographic follow-up found that the rate of complete occlusion increased to 57.9%, and near-completion and incomplete occlusion dropped to 29.8% and 12.3%, respectively. The angiographic result of the last follow-up improved significantly (Z=- 2.805, P=0.005). Univariate analysis indicated that distal location of aneurysms (Z=4.538, P=0.033) and ruptured aneurysms (χ2=.6120, P=0.032) were potential risk factors for intra-parent artery narrowing. Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analysis found that A3 aneurysms (95% CI 1.427~32.744, P=0.016) are the key risk factor for intra-parent artery narrowing. <p> Conclusions: The Leo stent is safe and effective for aneurysms located in ACA circulations. The overall occlusion degree improved during follow-up. A distal, small artery was the risk factor for intra-parent artery narrowing.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Strategies to Minimize Access Site-related Complications in Patients
Undergoing Transfemoral Artery Procedures with Large-bore Devices]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136595</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Large bore accesses refer to accesses with a diameter of 10 French or greater and are necessary for various medical devices, including those used in transcatheter aortic valve replacement, endovascular aneurysm repair stent-grafts, and percutaneous mechanical support devices. Notably, the utilization of these devices via femoral access is steadily increasing due to advancements in technology and implantation techniques, which are expanding the pool of patients suitable for percutaneous procedures. However, procedures involving large bore devices carry a high risk of bleeding and vascular complications (VCs), impacting both morbidity and long-term mortality. <p> In this review article, we will first discuss the incidence, determinants, and prognostic impact of VCs in patients undergoing large bore access procedures. Subsequently, we will explore the strategies developed in recent years to minimize VCs, including techniques for optimizing vascular puncture through femoral cannulation, such as the use of echo-guided access cannulation and fluoroscopic guidance. Additionally, we will evaluate existing vascular closure devices designed for large bore devices. Finally, we will consider new pharmacological strategies aimed at reducing the risk of periprocedural access-related bleeding.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ignored Role of Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation in the Pathophysiology of
Cryptogenic Stroke in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale and Atrial
Septal Aneurysm]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/138277</link><description><![CDATA[<P>The association between cryptogenic stroke (CS) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) with or without atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) has been a debate for decades in terms of pathophysiologic processes and clinical courses. This issue has become more interesting and complex, because of the concerns associating the CS with so-called normal variant pathologies of interatrial septum, namely ASA and PFO. While there is an anatomical pathology in the interatrial septum, namely PFO and ASA, the embolic source of stroke is not clearly defined. Moreover, in patients with PFO and CS, the risk of recurrent stroke has also been associated with other PFOunrelated factors, such as hyperlipidemia, body mass index, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, leading to the difficulty in understanding the pathophysiologic mechanism of CS in patients with PFO and/or ASA. Theoretically, the embolic source of cryptogenic stroke in which PFO and/or ASA has been involved can be categorized into three different anatomical locations, namely PFO tissue and/or ASA tissue itself, right or left atrial chambers, and venous vascular territory distal to the right atrium, i.e., inferior vena cava and lower extremity venous system. However, the possible role of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation associated with PFO and/or ASA as a source of cryptogenic stroke has never been mentioned clearly in the literature. This review aims to explain the association of cryptogenic stroke with PFO and/or ASA in a comprehensive manner, including anatomical, clinical, and mechanistic aspects. <P> The potential role of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and its contribution to clinical course have been also discussed in a hypothetical manner to elucidate the pathophysiology of CS and support further treatment modalities.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances in Nanobiotechnology for the Treatment of
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134580</link><description><![CDATA[Lymphoma is the eighth most common type of cancer worldwide. Currently, lymphoma is mainly classified into two main groups: Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), with NHL accounting for 80% to 90% of the cases. NHL is primarily divided into B, T, and natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma. Nanotechnology is developing rapidly and has made significant contributions to the field of medicine. This review summarizes the advancements of nanobiotechnology in recent years and its applications in the treatment of NHL, especially in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), and follicular lymphoma (FL). The technologies discussed include clinical imaging, targeted drug delivery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and thermodynamic therapy (TDT) for lymphoma. This review aims to provide a better understanding of the use of nanotechnology in the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Biology of Tenascin C and its Role in Physiology and Pathology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130686</link><description><![CDATA[Tenascin-C (TNC) is a multimodular extracellular matrix (ECM) protein hexameric with several molecular forms (180-250 kDa) produced by alternative splicing at the pre-mRNA level and protein modifications. The molecular phylogeny indicates that the amino acid sequence of TNC is a well-conserved protein among vertebrates. TNC has binding partners, including fibronectin, collagen, fibrillin-2, periostin, proteoglycans, and pathogens. Various transcription factors and intracellular regulators tightly regulate TNC expression. TNC plays an essential role in cell proliferation and migration. Unlike embryonic tissues, TNC protein is distributed over a few tissues in adults. However, higher TNC expression is observed in inflammation, wound healing, cancer, and other pathological conditions. It is widely expressed in a variety of human malignancies and is recognized as a pivotal factor in cancer progression and metastasis. Moreover, TNC increases both pro-and anti-inflammatory signaling pathways. It has been identified as an essential factor in tissue injuries such as damaged skeletal muscle, heart disease, and kidney fibrosis. This multimodular hexameric glycoprotein modulates both innate and adaptive immune responses regulating the expression of numerous cytokines. Moreover, TNC is an important regulatory molecule that affects the onset and progression of neuronal disorders through many signaling pathways. We provide a comprehensive overview of the structural and expression properties of TNC and its potential functions in physiological and pathological conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Impact of Statin or Fibrate Therapy on Homocysteine
Concentrations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130907</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Statins and fibrates are two lipid-lowering drugs used in patients with dyslipidemia. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the magnitude of the effect of statin and fibrate therapy on serum homocysteine levels. <p> Methods: A search was undertaken of the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar electronic databases up to 15 July 2022. Primary endpoints focused on plasma homocysteine levels. Data were quantitatively analyzed using fixed or random- effect models, as appropriate. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the drugs and hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of statins. <p> Results: After screening 1134 papers, 52 studies with a total of 20651 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis showed a significant decrease in plasma homocysteine levels after statin therapy (WMD: -1.388 μmol/L, 95% CI: [-2.184, -0.592], p = 0.001; I2 = 95%). However, fibrate therapy significantly increased plasma homocysteine levels (WMD: 3.459 μmol/L, 95% CI: [2.849, 4.069], p < 0.001; I2 = 98%). The effect of atorvastatin and simvastatin depended on the dose and duration of treatment (atorvastatin [coefficient: 0.075 [0.0132, 0.137]; p = 0.017, coefficient: 0.103 [0.004, 0.202]; p = 0.040, respectively] and simvastatin [coefficient: -0.047 [-0.063, -0.031]; p < 0.001, coefficient: 0.046 [0.016, 0.078]; p = 0.004]), whereas the effect of fenofibrate persisted over time (coefficient: 0.007 [-0.011, 0.026]; p = 0.442) and was not altered by a change in dosage (coefficient: -0.004 [-0.031, 0.024]; p = 0.798). In addition, the greater homocysteine- lowering effect of statins was associated with higher baseline plasma homocysteine concentrations (coefficient: -0.224 [-0.340, -0.109]; p < 0.001). <p> Conclusion: Fibrates significantly increased homocysteine levels, whereas statins significantly decreased them.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Effect of Xiao-Chai-Hu Decoction on Treating Psoriasis Based on
Network Pharmacology and Experiment Validation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/137498</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory and recurrent skin disease. Xiao-Chai-Hu Decoction (XCHD) has shown good effects against some inflammatory diseases and cancers. However, the pharmacological effect and mechanisms of XCHD on psoriasis are not yet clear. <p> Objective: To uncover the effect and mechanisms of XCHD on psoriasis by integrating network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo experiments. <p> Methods: The active ingredients and corresponding targets of XCHD were screened through Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis (TCMSP) and Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of psoriasis were obtained from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. The XCHD-psoriasis intersection targets were obtained by intersecting XCHD targets, and DEGs were used to establish the “herb-active ingredient-target” network and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) Network. The hub targets were identified based on the PPI network by Cytoscape software. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed next. Molecular docking was executed via AutoDockTools-1.5.6. Finally, <i>in vivo</i> experiments were carried out further to validate the therapeutic effects of XCHD on psoriasis. <p> Results: 58 active components and 219 targets of XCHD were screened. 4 top-active components (quercetin, baicalein, wogonin and kaempferol) and 7 hub targets (IL1B, CXCL8, CCND1, FOS, MMP9, STAT1 and CCL2) were identified. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses indicated that the TNF signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway and several pathways were involved. Molecular docking results indicated that hub genes had a good affinity to the corresponding key compounds. In imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis mouse models, XCHD could significantly improve psoriasis-like skin lesions, downregulate KRT17 and Ki67, and inhibit inflammation cytokines and VEGF. <p> Conclusion: XCHD showed the therapeutic effect on psoriasis by regulating keratinocyte differentiation, and suppressing inflammation and angiogenesis, which provided a theoretical basis for further experiments and clinical research.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[NLRP3 Inflammasome: Key Role in the Pathophysiology of Cardiac Disorders
and its Potential as a Therapeutic Target]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135972</link><description><![CDATA[The NLRP3 inflammasome holds a pivotal position in the pathophysiological landscape of cardiac disorders, presenting itself as a promising therapeutic target. Central to this role are the proinflammatory cytokines Interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18, which emerge as major players orchestrated by the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. This activation culminates in pyroptosis, a programmed form of cell death. While controlled activation of NLRP3 supports tissue repair, its excessive activation yields adverse consequences. Within the spectrum of cardiovascular diseases, ranging from abdominal aortic aneurysm to calcific aortic valve disease, the NLRP3 inflammasome is notably implicated. Atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, diabetic cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and dilated cardiomyopathy collectively contribute to the genesis of inflammatory conditions. Key to this process is the nucleotide oligomerization domain-containing leucine-rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammation, necessitating both priming and activation signals to orchestrate inflammation. Extensive scientific evidence substantiates the critical role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiac disorders. Experimental models and clinical studies converge, highlighting its contribution to the intricate web of inflammatory pathways that underlie cardiac pathologies. This deeper understanding has spurred interest in targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome as a therapeutic avenue. Efforts to modulate the NLRP3 inflammasome are underway, aiming to temper its hyperactivity without disrupting its beneficial functions. Strategies involve small molecule inhibitors and biological agents, targeting various points along the signaling cascade. By selectively intervening in the NLRP3 pathway, researchers aspire to mitigate inflammatory responses, potentially ameliorating the progression of cardiac disorders. In conclusion, the NLRP3 inflammasome is a central orchestrator in the pathophysiology of diverse cardiac disorders. Its dual nature, capable of both driving repair and provoking harm, accentuates its significance as a therapeutic target. Scientific endeavors are actively unraveling its complexities, fostering the development of innovative interventions that could potentially revolutionize the management of cardiac inflammatory conditions.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cellular Senescence and Senolytic Agents: Recent Updates on Their Role
and Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136431</link><description><![CDATA[Cellular senescence, an eternal condition of cell cycle arrest due to cellular stressors, is a sign of aging. Senescent cells (SCs) build up in tissues as they age, impairing their ability to repair themselves by causing the cell cycle to seize in progenitor cells and producing proinflammatory and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) or matrix-degrading molecules. SASP aids in the emergence of several age-related diseases. Genetic studies have shown that removing SCs can delay aging and prolong life. Senolytics are small molecules designed to treat numerous age-related disorders can selectively kill SCs. A detailed discussion on senolytics and their potential as therapeutics to treat neuro-disorder and slow down aging is described herein. Emerging natural products, such as quercetin, dasatinib, fisetin, piperlongumine, and curcumin, have recently been reported to be effective senolytic agents, and some structurally modified analogue of these have also been explored for better selectivity and efficacy in animal models. These showed significant potential in clinical studies and could be developed as senolytic drugs in the future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Spontaneous Intracranial Hemorrhage and Acute Respiratory Distress
Syndrome Associated with Dengue: A Case Report]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/135858</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Dengue is a major health burden worldwide, notably in tropical and subtropical countries, with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic infection to severe hemorrhagic or shock syndrome. The clinical and biochemical profile of dengue has been shown in the literature to be expanding as more atypical signs have been added over the past few decades. Most dengue-related symptoms are typically mild to moderate and self-limited. However, intracranial hemorrhage and acute respiratory distress syndrome in severe dengue is an event that has been encountered uncommonly. <p> Case presentation: A 30-year-old female presented with complaints of fever, headache, cough, and altered sensorium. Later, she was diagnosed with severe dengue fever complicated by dengue hemorrhagic fever, which manifested as subarachnoid and subdural bleeding and acute respiratory distress syndrome. She was managed conservatively with a positive outcome. <p> Conclusion: Atypical manifestation, though rare, should be kept in mind while dealing with severe dengue patients, as early detection based on anticipated risk factors and timely treatment have the potential to save lives.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hyper IgE Syndromes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/134445</link><description><![CDATA[The Hyper IgE Syndromes are rare primary immunodeficiencies characterized by eczema, recurrent skin and respiratory infections and elevated serum IgE levels. Nowadays a geneticmolecular characterization is possible and allows the distinction in various monogenic pathologies, which share some clinical characteristics but also important differences. In addition to long-known STAT3 and DOCK8 gene mutations, in fact, also ZNF341, CARD11, ERBB2IP, IL6R and IL6ST genes mutations can cause the disease. The main clinical manifestations are represented by newborn rash, eczema similar to atopic dermatitis, bacterial and viral skin infections, cold abscesses, respiratory infections with possible pulmonary complications, allergies, gastrointestinal manifestations, malignancies and connective tissue abnormalities. Diagnosis is still a challenge because, especially in the early stages of life, it is difficult to distinguish from other pathologies characterized by eczema and high IgE, such as atopic dermatitis. Several scores and diagnostic pathways have been developed, but it is essential to seek a genetic diagnosis. Treatment is based on prevention and early treatment of infections, meticulous skincare, intravenous immunoglobulins and HSCT, which, in some HIES subtypes, can modify the prognosis. Prognosis is related to the affected gene, but also to early diagnosis, timely treatment of infections and early HSCT.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Simultaneous Study of Analysis of Anti-inflammatory Potential of <i>Dryopteris ramosa</i>
(C. Hope) C. Chr. using GC-Mass and Computational Modeling on the
Xylene-induced Ear Oedema in Mouse Model]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/136715</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: In the present study, we aimed to investigate the extraction and identification of the potential phytochemicals from the Methanolic Extract of <i>Dryopteris ramosa</i> (MEDR) using GC-MS profiling for validating the traditional uses of MEDR its efficacy in inflammations by using <i>in-vitro, in-vivo</i> and <i>in silico</i> approaches in anti-inflammatory models. </P><P> Methods: GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of a total of 59 phytochemical compounds. The human red blood cells (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay and heat-induced hemolysis method were used as <i>in-vitro</i> anti-inflammatory activity of the extract. The <i>in-vivo</i> analysis was carried out through the Xylene-induced mice ear oedema method. It was found that MEDR at a concentration of 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg showed 35.45%, 36.01%, and 36.33% protection to HRBC in a hypotonic solution, respectively. At the same time, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 45.31% protection of HRBC in a hypotonic solution. </P><P> Results: The extract showed inhibition of 25.32%, 26.53%, and 33.31% cell membrane lysis at heating at 20 μg, 30 μg, and 40 μg, respectively. In comparison, standard Diclofenac at 30 μg showed 50.49% inhibition of denaturation to heat. Methanolic extract of the plant exhibited momentous inhibition in xylene-induced ear oedema in mice treated with 30 μg extract were 47.2%, 63.4%, and 78.8%, while inhibition in mice ear oedema treated with 60 μg extract was 34.7%, 43.05%, 63.21% and reduction in ear thickness of standard drug were 57.3%, 59.54%, 60.42% recorded at the duration of 1, 4 and 24 hours of inflammation. Molecular docking and simulations were performed to validate the anti-inflammatory role of the phytochemicals that revealed five potential phytochemicals <i>i.e.</i> Stigmasterol,22,23dihydro, Heptadecane,8methyl, Pimaricacid, Germacrene and 1,3Cyclohexadiene,_5(1,5dimethyl4hexenyl)-2methyl which revealed potential or significant inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-6) in the docking analysis. </P><P> Conclusion: The outcome of the study signifies that MEDR can offer a new prospect in the discovery of a harmonizing and alternative therapy for inflammatory disease conditions.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cardiospecific Troponins as Laboratory Biomarkers of Myocardial
Cell Injury in Hypertension: A Mini-Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129598</link><description><![CDATA[<P>To date, it is well known that a significant number of diseases of cardiovascular genesis (coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, Takotsubo syndrome, heart failure, etc.) and extra-cardiac genesis (renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sepsis, diabetes mellitus, etc.) cause injury to contractile cells of the heart muscle (myocardial cells). The most sensitive and specific criteria for proving myocardial cell injury are cardiospecific troponins (CSTns) - CSTnI and CSTnT. According to the current clinical recommendations of the European, American, and Russian Cardiological Communities, CSTnI and CSTnT are the main biomarkers for early diagnosis of myocardial infarction. Hypertension is one of the most dangerous and common risk factors for the development of cardiovascular pathologies and is associated with a high risk of dangerous cardiovascular complications. Therefore, there is an urgent need to search for new biomarkers for the timely assessment of the prognosis of patients with hypertension. <P> This mini-review aims to substantiate the possibilities of using the cardiomarkers (CSTnI and CSTnT) to assess the prognosis of patients suffering from hypertension and to discuss potential mechanisms that cause injury to myocardial cells and increase serum levels of CSTnI and CSTnT. <P> This is a narrative mini-review, which was prepared using the following databases: Pubmed/Medline, PubMed Central, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. The following keywords were used in the literature search: “myocardial cells”, “injury”, “damage”, and “hypertension” in combination with the terms “mechanisms of injury” “predictive significance”, “cardiac troponins”, or “cardiospecific troponins”.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Testosterone and Peripheral Arterial Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/133497</link><description><![CDATA[Testosterone levels in men begin declining in the early years of adulthood, with a 1-2% reduction/year. Low testosterone levels in men are associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and increased cardiovascular mortality. However, observational studies of testosterone levels in males and their relationship with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) have yielded mixed results; only some cohorts show a clear association with low free testosterone levels. This discrepancy may, in part, be due to methodological issues with estimating free testosterone but also to different effects of testosterone on the vessel wall and metabolism. While testosterone improves glycaemic control, has anti-obesity effects and induces vasodilation, it also stimulates platelet aggregation and increases the haematocrit. Androgen deprivation treatment for advanced prostate cancer may be associated with elevated cardiovascular risk, as is testosterone abuse for performance enhancement. On the other hand, judicious treatment of male hypogonadism or testosterone treatment of trans-men appears to be safe.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Redefining the Roles of Aspirin across the Spectrum of Cardiovascular
Disease Prevention]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/131410</link><description><![CDATA[Even before its role in platelet inhibition was fully characterized in the 1980s, aspirin had been incorporated into the cardiovascular disease care algorithm. Early trials examining its use in unstable angina and acute myocardial infarction revealed evidence of its protective role in the secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Large trials assessing use in the primary prevention setting and optimal dosing regimens were studied in the late 1990s and early 2000s. As a cornerstone of cardiovascular care, aspirin was incorporated into primary and secondary ASCVD prevention guidelines in the United States and mechanical heart valve guidelines. However, in recent years, with significant advances in medical and interventional ASCVD therapies, scrutiny has been placed on the bleeding profile of aspirin, and guidelines have adapted to new evidence. Updates in primary prevention guidelines reserve aspirin only for patients at higher ASCVD risk and low bleeding risk - though questions remain in ASCVD risk assessment as risk-enhancing factors have proven difficult to incorporate on a population level. New thoughts regarding aspirin use in secondary prevention - especially with the concomitant use of anticoagulants - have altered recommendations as additional data accrued. Finally, a recommendation for aspirin and vitamin K antagonists with mechanical heart valves has been modified. Despite aspirin losing a foothold in cardiovascular care, new evidence has strengthened claims for its use in women at high risk for preeclampsia.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Sojourn of Polymeric Micelles for Effective Brain Drug Delivery
System]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130895</link><description><![CDATA[The brain is a delicate organ and targeting neurological diseases with conventional approaches is still a daunting task. This is due to the presence of necessary physiological barriers, mainly the blood-brain barrier, that blocks the entry of dangerous and poisonous substances from the bloodstream, thus helping in maintaining homeostasis. Furthermore, the presence of multidrug resistance transporters which act by prohibiting the entry of drugs across the cell membrane and by channelizing them to the outside environment is another defense mechanism. Despite the advancements in the understanding of disease pathology, only a restricted number of drugs and drug therapies can treat and target neurological diseases. To overcome this shortcoming, the therapeutic approach using amphiphilic block copolymers - using polymeric micelles has gained momentum because of its wide applications like drug targeting, delivery, and imaging. Polymeric micelles are nanocarriers that arise when amphiphilic block copolymers spontaneously assemble in aqueous solutions. The hydrophobic core–hydrophilic shell configuration of these nanoparticles makes it easier to load hydrophobic drugs into the core and as a result, the solubility of these medications is improved. Micelle-based drug delivery carriers can target the brain with reticuloendothelial system uptake and produce a long-circulating effect. PMs can also be combined with targeting ligands that increase their uptake by specific cells and thus decreasing off-target effects. In the present review, we primarily focused on polymeric micelles for brain delivery along with the method of preparation, mechanism of micelle formulation, and the ongoing formulations under clinical trials for brain delivery.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hyper-coagulopathy State in COVID-19: A Pivotal Challenge]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132725</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: The novel SARS-CoV-2 has caused a global pandemic. COVID-19 infection is described by the adverse impact on the population’s health and economy. Coagulopathy is associated with various thrombotic complications and disease severity. Therefore, this review aims to elucidate the pathophysiology of this coagulopathy. <P> Methods: Relevant English language literature was searched and retrieved from the Google Scholar search engine and PubMed database. We used “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “Coagulopathy”, “Thrombosis”, “Anticoagulation”, and “ARDS” as keywords. <P> Results: Several studies showed that the primary targets of SARS-CoV-2 are pneumocytes, immune cells, and vascular endothelial cells. Coagulopathy appears to induce more thrombotic complications than hemorrhagic events. The critically ill patients stimulate the coagulopathy state and thrombosis complication through cytokine storm, systemic inflammation, complement cascade, and platelets. Accordingly, thromboembolic complications cause mortality among COVID-19-infected patients and can negatively affect disease management outcomes and treatment. <P> Conclusion: A pivotal clinical feature of acute COVID-19 infection is coagulopathy and prothrombotic events, which are associated with excessive arterial and venous thrombosis, microvascular thrombosis, and adverse clinical outcomes. Therefore, adopting an approach for preventing, treating, and reducing thrombotic and bleeding events in these patients is necessary.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Novel Approaches to the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Patients with
Coronary Artery Disease]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132745</link><description><![CDATA[Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM). Although benefit has been attributed to the strict control of hyperglycemia with traditional antidiabetic treatments, novel antidiabetic medications have demonstrated cardiovascular (CV) safety and benefits by reducing major adverse cardiac events, improving heart failure (HF), and decreasing CVD-related mortality. Emerging data underline the interrelation between diabetes, as a metabolic disorder, and inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of microvascular and macrovascular complications. Conventional glucose-lowering medications demonstrate controversial CV effects. Dipeptidyl peptidase- 4 inhibitors have not only failed to prove to be beneficial in patients with coronary artery disease, but also their safety is questionable for the treatment of patients with CVD. However, metformin, as the first-line option for type 2 DM (T2DM), shows CVD protective properties for DM-induced atherosclerotic and macrovascular complications. Thiazolidinedione and sulfonylureas have questionable effects, as evidence from large studies shows a reduction in the risk of CV events and deaths, but with an increased rate of hospitalization for HF. Moreover, several studies have revealed that insulin monotherapy for T2DM treatment increases the risk of major CV events and deaths from HF, when compared to metformin, although it may reduce the risk of myocardial infarction. Finally, this review aimed to summarize the mechanisms of action of novel antidiabetic drugs acting as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors that show favorable effects on blood pressure, lipid levels, and inflammation, leading to reduced CVD risk in T2DM patients.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Lipoprotein(a) as a Predictive Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Acute
Coronary Syndromes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132233</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Western societies, despite the significant advances that have improved primary and secondary prevention. Hence, several novel biomarkers have been identified as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets which could improve outcomes even when traditional risk factors are well-controlled. Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] has pro-atherogenic, pro-thrombotic, and pro-inflammatory properties, and its levels are relatively constant and genetically predetermined. Several epidemiological studies have associated high Lp(a) with increased risk for acute coronary syndromes (ACS) even when other CAD risk factors are included in the multivariate analysis. However, until recently, specific therapeutic options targeting Lp(a) were not associated, and thus, Lp(a) is currently used as a risk and treatment modifying biomarker with guidelines suggesting the intensified treatment of low-density lipoprotein in intermediate- to-high-risk patients with increased Lp(a) levels. Lately, specific treatment options targeting Lp(a) have become available and include antisense oligonucleotides and small-interfering RNA, which induce a robust reduction of Lp(a). Results of ongoing phase-3 trials will answer whether Lp(a) will become a biomarker specifically treated to reduce the burden of cardiovascular mortality. The scope of this review article is to present the current evidence regarding the use of Lp(a) as a biomarker, predictive of increased CAD risk, and to discuss the future perspectives on pharmaceutical reduction of Lp(a) as a therapeutic target in high-risk patients.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Multisystemic Inflammatory Syndrome Post COVID-19 Infection in an Arab
Female: A Case Report of a Rare Manifestation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130363</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome is a rare but severe complication in children and adolescents infected with SARS-CoV-2. <P> Case Report: This report describes a four-year-old Arab descent female presenting with a history of high-grade fever of 7 days duration with erythematous rash and family history of COVID infection suggestive of atypical Kawasaki disease, which turned out to be multisystemic inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) post COVID infection. Based on the available published evidence, the World Health Organization has provided a preliminary definition of MIS-C as “children and adolescents 0–19 years of age with fever > 3 days presenting with two of five clinical criteria, such as 1. skin rash or mucocutaneous inflammation or non-purulent conjunctivitis, 2. hypotensive shock, 3. signs of myocardial dysfunction, 4. coagulopathy, and 5. the acute gastrointestinal problem, elevated inflammatory markers, no evidence of other microbial infections, and evidence of COVID-19 (RT-PCR, antigen test or serology positive), or likely contact with patients with COVID-19”. <P> Some criteria are similar, and others are different from Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome, such as the presence of rash, conjunctivitis, mucocutaneous inflammation, and coronaries involvement are shared criteria between Kawasaki and MIS-C, whereas hypotensive shock and coagulopathy are shared criteria between MIS-C and toxic shock syndrome. The positive testing for COVID-19 in the absence of microbiological isolation confirms MIS-C. <P> Conclusion: Among the complications of COVID-19 infection, MIS-C is rare. Owing to the management differences among Kawasaki, toxic shock syndrome, and MIS-C, timely diagnosis of MIS-C saves the children from a poor outcome.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Clinical Characteristics of Kawasaki Disease in Children with Different Age
Groups: A Literature Review and Retrospective Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/132453</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Objective: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute self-limiting systemic vascular disease commonly observed in children less than 5 years of age. The present study comparatively assesses the clinical characteristics of children diagnosed with KD in different age groups. Furthermore, a comprehensive literature review on the clinical features and diagnostic guidelines of KD is performed. </p> <p> Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted on the data of KD children admitted to the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Guangzhou, China, from January 2016 to December 2018. The children were divided into 3 age groups, including children < 1 year of age (group A, n = 66), 1-5 years of age (group B, n = 74), and children > 5 years of age (group C, n = 14). Complete clinical evaluation, hematological, and cardiovascular assessments were conducted and compared between the three groups. </p> <p> Results: The time of diagnosis, hemoglobin, and neutrophil ratio of children in group A were significantly lower than the other two groups (p < 0.05), while the platelet count was significantly higher (p < 0.05). The proportion of incomplete KD (iKD) was the greatest in group A (40.9%), while the proportion of children with increased coronary Z value and aseptic meningitis was greater than that in group B (p < 0.0167). Group A showed less patients with KD shock syndrome (KDSS) than the other two groups (p < 0.05). Group B showed the greatest number of patients with arthralgia compared to the other two groups (p < 0.05). Three groups showed no significant difference to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy (p > 0.05). </p> <p> Conclusion: The younger the age of KD onset, the more atypical the conditions are, with a greater risk of affecting other systems and a higher incidences of coronary artery disease. An early treatment with glucocorticoids might be helpful in older children and those with a greater high-risk KD warning score to prevent coronary injury. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Coronary Artery Aneurysms as a Cause of Acute Coronary Syndrome
Presentation - A Focused Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130610</link><description><![CDATA[Coronary artery aneurysms (CAA) are defined as a dilation of a coronary vessel greater than 1.5 times the diameter of a local reference vessel. While CAAs tend to be incidental findings on imaging, they result in complications, such as thrombosis, embolization, ischemia, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Among symptomatic cases, chest pain has been the most common manifestation of CAAs. This necessitates an understanding of CAAs as a cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) presentation. However, due to the unclear pathophysiology of CAAs and their variable presentation complicated by similar ACS conditions, there is no clear strategy for CAA management. In this article, we will discuss the contribution of CAAs to ACS presentations and review the current management options for CAAs.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Pseudocoarctation of the Arch and the Abdominal Aorta: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130466</link><description><![CDATA[Pseudocoarctaion of the aorta is a rare congenital anomaly occurring in isolation or with other congenital heart diseases. The anatomical basis of the condition is linked to an elongated, redundant aorta which may affect the arch, or the abdominal aorta rarely giving rise to kink and buckling without causing any significant functional stenosis. It should be carefully differentiated from the common true coarctation of the aorta. No clinical features are specific to pseudo coarctation and are often diagnosed incidentally. Although asymptomatic in the majority, few patients can have nonspecific symptoms and complications due to aneurysm formation, dissection, or rupture of the aorta. Hence Pseudocoarctaion should be closely followed for the onset of symptoms or possible complications. Without recommendations, no specific therapy is indicated in asymptomatic patients, although symptoms and complications warrant definitive treatment. As the natural history of the disease is unknown, the condition, when diagnosed, should be closely followed up for the occurrence of any complications. This article reports a pseudo aortic coarctation involving the arch and a brief literature review of this rare congenital anomaly.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cardiac Multimodality Imaging in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: What
to Look for and When to Image]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130186</link><description><![CDATA[Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), now recognized as a common cardiomyopathy of complex genomics and pathophysiology, is defined by the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy of various morphologies and severity, significant hemodynamic consequences, and diverse phenotypic, both structural and clinical, profiles. Advancements in cardiac multimodality imaging, including echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and cardiac computed tomography, with and without angiography have greatly improved the diagnosis of HCM, and enable precise measurements of cardiac mass, volume, wall thickness, function, and physiology. Multimodality imaging provides comprehensive and complementary information and hasemerged as the bedrock for the diagnosis, clinical assessment, serial monitoring, and sudden cardiac death risk stratification of patients with HCM. This review highlights the role of cardiac multimodality imaging in the modern diagnosis and management of HCM.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support: Left, Right, and Biventricular
Devices]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/130140</link><description><![CDATA[Temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) encompasses a wide array of invasive devices, which provide short-term hemodynamic support for multiple clinical indications. Although initially developed for the management of cardiogenic shock, indications for MCS have expanded to include prophylactic insertion prior to high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention, treatment of acute circulatory failure following cardiac surgery, and bridging of end-stage heart failure patients to more definitive therapies, such as left ventricular assist devices and cardiac transplantation. A wide variety of devices are available to provide left ventricular, right ventricular, or biventricular support. The choice of a temporary MCS device requires consideration of the clinical scenario, patient characteristics, institution protocols, and provider familiarity and training. In this review, the most common forms of left, right, and biventricular temporary MCS are discussed, along with their indications, contraindications, complications, cannulations, hemodynamic effects, and available clinical data.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Homocysteine, Vitamin B12 and Folate Level: Possible Risk Factors in the
Progression of Chronic Heart and Kidney Disorders]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129381</link><description><![CDATA[Cobalamin is an essential molecule for humans; it is exceptionally important for various body functions, including deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis and cellular energy production. Vegans are more vulnerable to vitamin B12 deficiency than natives with moderate consumption of animal dietary supplements or people with inadequate nutritional patterns. However, the long-term effects of sub-medical deficiency have not been thoroughly studied, but they may have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system, pregnancy outcomes, and vascular, renal, cognitive, bone, and eye health. Alongside the statin remedy, that is a powerful approach for CVD prevention. Another approach is related to the B nutrition substitution remedy with folic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 are extensively practised nowadays. There is a tremendous interest in plasma homocysteine (tHcy) as a cardiovascular hazard factor. However, current research in the field of its prevention is more inclined toward confirming the benefit of tHcy-reducing remedy with vitamin B12. Thus, while folic acid fortification is primarily aimed at reducing neural-tube defects, it may also play a significant role in the primary prevention of CVD by lowering tHcy. Folate and B-vitamins play important roles in CVD prevention and nutrition policy implementation. Patients affected with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or end-stage Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) experience a tremendous cardiovascular threat that may also further lead to death. As a result, routine monitoring of vitamin B12 levels is likely to be beneficial for the early detection and treatment of metabolic vitamin B12 deficiency, as well as the prevention of heart-related diseases.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Ang-1 Inhibited Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Apoptosis of VECs in
Rats with aSAH-induced CVS Through the Regulated PI3K/Akt Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122479</link><description><![CDATA[<P> Aims: To explore angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) involved in cerebral vasospasm (CVS) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) through its effect on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells (VECs). </p> <P> Background: CVS accounts for high morbidity and mortality of aSAH. Abnormal cellular physiological processes of VECs play a critical role in aSAH-induced CVS. In addition, Ang-1 is involved in regulating vascular structure and function. </p> <P> Objective: To study the role of Ang-1 played in CVS and the underlying mechanism. </p> <P> Methods: Blood samples of 130 aSAH patients were collected from 2016 to 2020 at West China Hospital of Sichuan University. A two-hemorrhage rodent model was employed to structure an aSAH-induced CVS rat model. Moreover, oxyHb was used to treat VECs to construct a CVS cell model in vitro. ELISA was used to measure the level of Ang-1 and HE staining to assess the rat&#039;s basilar arteries. Subsequently, CCK-8 was used to detect cell viability ability, and flow cytometry was used to test the cell apoptosis rate. Western blotting was used to determine the expression level of ERS marker and apoptosis-related proteins. </p> <P> Results: There was an abnormally low expression of Ang-1 in CVS patients and CVS rats; besides, oxyHb treatment decreased Ang-1 in VECs in a concentration-dependent manner. Ang-1 treatment led to the thinner basilar artery wall and lumen circumference in CVS rats; moreover, in oxyHbtreated VECs, Ang-1 treatment inhibited ERS and apoptosis. In addition, the expression of p-PI3K and p-Akt in the CVS group decreased, while the expression of p53 in the CVS group increased. The expression of p-PI3K and p-Akt in 8 CVS rats negatively correlates with the expression of Ang- 1, but the correlation between p53 and Ang-1 was positive. Furthermore, the results suggested that Ang-1 suppressed ERS and apoptosis of VECs through the regulated PI3K/Akt/p53 pathway. </p> <P> Conclusion: Elevated Ang-1 inhibited p53-mediated ERS and apoptosis of VECs through the activated PI3K/Akt pathway; Ang-1 might be an attractive treatment strategy for CVS.</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[The Association of LDH Expression and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia in
Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Possible Involvement
of Cerebral Blood Perfusion]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128541</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background and Purpose: Several pieces of evidence suggest that serum lactate hydrogenase (LDH) level is associated with the pathological process of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). This research aimed to investigate the associations of serum LDH level with the occurrence of DCI in aSAH patients. <p> Methods: A total of 122 patients diagnosed with aSAH within 72h of onset were retrospectively enrolled. The serum levels of LDH between 7:00-8:00 am on day 1, day 3 and day 7, patients’ demographics, and clinical features were collected. Computed tomography perfusion was performed within 7 days after aSAH. The occurrence of DCI was recorded during the hospitalization. <p> Results: Among all the enrolled patients, 43 (35.2%) developed DCI during hospitalization. Patients occurred DCI were always accompanied by more serious clinical features and found with higher serum LDH levels. LDH levels on day 3 and day 7 after onset were independently associated with the occurrence of DCI and showed high predictive value according to the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Moreover, there was a strong correlation between LDH and mean cerebral blood flow, transit time, and mean time to peak. <p> Conclusion: Serum LDH level on day 3 and day 7 may be a valuable, convenient, and rapid predictive indicator for the occurrence of DCI in aSAH patients.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Labelling Matrix Metalloproteinases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128845</link><description><![CDATA[Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-containing proteases that participate in many physiological and pathological processes in vivo. Recently, the MMP network has been established according to a deeper understanding of its functions. Some MMPs have been also regarded as biomarkers of various diseases, including inflammation, nerve diseases, and cancers. MMP labelling has been thus paid more attention in recent decades. Accordingly, both reagents and technologies for MMP labelling have been rapidly developed. Here we summarize the recent development of some MMP labelling methods. This review was identified through keyword (MMPs; labelling; etc.) searches in the ScienceDirect database, Scifinder, Web of Science, and PubMed for which typical cases were used for an inductive overview. In spite of the advances in MMP labelling, selective labelling of a specific MMP is still an open issue. We hope that this article can be helpful in developing specific MMP labelling methods in future.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Understanding the Potential Function of Perivascular Adipose Tissue
in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Current Research Status and
Future Expectation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127984</link><description><![CDATA[An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a progressive dilatation of the vascular wall occurring below the aortic fissure, preferably occurring below the renal artery. The molecular mechanism of AAA has not yet been elucidated. In the past few decades, research on abdominal aortic aneurysm has been mainly focused on the vessel wall, and it is generally accepted that inflammation and middle layer fracture of the vessel wall is the core steps in the development of AAA. However, perivascular adipose tissue plays a non-negligible role in the occurrence and development of AAA. The position of PVAT plays a supporting and protective role on the vascular wall, but the particularity of the location makes it not only have the physiological function of visceral fat; but also can regulate the vascular function by secreting a large number of adipokines and cytokines. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is getting higher and higher, with a vascular rupture, low rescue success rate, and extremely high lethality rate. At present, there is no drug to control the progression or reverse abdominal aortic aneurysm. Therefore, it is critical to deeply explore the mechanism of abdominal aortic aneurysms and find new therapeutic ways to inhibit abdominal aortic aneurysm formation and disease progression. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is mainly characterized by inflammation of the vessel wall and matrix metalloprotein degradation. In this review, we mainly focus on the cytokines released by the perivascular adipose tissue, summarize the mechanisms involved in the regulation of abdominal aortic aneurysms, and provide new research directions for studying abdominal aortic aneurysms.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Emphysematous Osteomyelitis: Novel Use of PET-MRI and a Review of
Characteristic Imaging Findings]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126585</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Emphysematous Osteomyelitis (EO) is an extremely rare bone infection caused by gas-forming bacteria with few documented cases in the literature. Our study aims to highlight characteristic imaging features, including the novel use of positron emission tomographymagnetic resonance imaging (PET-MRI) in diagnosing this potentially fatal entity. <p> Case: Radiography and computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis were performed due to complaints of persistent back pain in a 36-year-old male with a history of recent abdominal aorta surgery. Sacroiliac joint aspiration was performed, and a follow-up PET-MRI was subsequently performed. <p> Results: Radiography and CT demonstrated bilateral sacroiliitis, osteonecrosis and EO in the bony pelvis. Left sacroiliac joint aspiration identified Staphylococcus aureus as the causative organism. PET-MRI revealed EO with left iliopsoas abscess and abdominal aortic graft infection. The patient&#039;s symptoms resolved following antibiotic therapy and image-guided abscess drainage. <p> Conclusion: EO is a lethal variant of osteomyelitis with a dearth of published cases. Pertinent imaging characteristics of EO on radiography, CT and PET-MRI are discussed here, along with a review of the literature surrounding this rare condition.</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[Hepatic and Systemic Inflammation for Left Ventricular Mass in Physically
Fit Adults: CHIEF Heart Study]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128948</link><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: Both low-grade systemic and hepatic inflammation could result in increased left ventricular mass (LVM) in the general population. However, the associations, which might be modified by exercise, have not been clarified in physically active young adults. </p><p> Methods: The study included 2,004 military males aged 18–43 years in eastern Taiwan. Systemic and hepatic inflammation was defined by the upper tertiles of blood white blood cell (WBC) counts (7.51-11.00 x 103/μL) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT: 30-120 U/L), respectively. LVM indexed for the body height ≥49 g/m<sup>2</sup>.7 was defined as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) based on echocardiography. Multiple logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, smoking, alcohol intake, physical fitness, and metabolic syndrome was utilized to determine the associations. </p><p> Results: As compared to the lower WBC/lower ALT group, there tended to have an increased risk of LVH with the higher WBC/lower ALT group, the lower WBC/higher ALT group, and the higher WBC/higher ALT group [odds ratios: 0.89 (95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.41-1.94), 1.90 (95% CI: 0.86-4.22) and 2.48 (95% CI: 1.04-5.92); p-value for trend = 0.01]. </p><p> Conclusion: Our study suggested that in physically active males, those with hepatic inflammation rather than low-grade systemic inflammation had a higher risk of LVH. Hepatic injury might be relevant to LVH as an early sign of end-organ damage regardless of physical fitness in young adults.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Toxicological Advancements in Cocaine Detection: A Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127214</link><description><![CDATA[Cocaine, also known as methyl benzoylecgonine, is one of the most used drugs of abuse and one of the oldest; however, there has been a recent increase in the consumption of this substance. This trend has once again caught the attention of the scientific community. We discuss the current knowledge about this drug, focusing our attention on the forensic approach. Despite the fact that the cut-off of positivity to cocaine in drug tests is quite high, most current tests are able to detect much lower concentrations and could improve forensic sciences in both post-mortem investigations and in people screening. Immunological assays possessing substantial cross-reactivity to cocaine are particularly useful for screening oral fluid, hair, and post-mortem blood, where significant concentrations of the drug can be found. Liquid chromatography has now supplanted the previous techniques because it is very sensitive and specific and allows samples to be analyzed in a shorter time with only minimal sample preparation. Recent studies have focused on increased sensitivity, reduced processing times, and cheaper analysis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Recent Advances: From Cell Biology to Cell Therapy in Atherosclerosis
Plaque <i>via</i> Stent Implantation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127267</link><description><![CDATA[Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial result of complicated pathophysiology. Changes in the expression of polygenes, coupled with environmental and lifestyle factors, trigger a cascade of adverse events involving a variety of cell types, such as vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. In this review, we summarize the function and therapeutic targets of atherosclerotic cells. This article reviews the role of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages and foam cells in the development of atherosclerosis and the progress in the treatment of atherosclerosis by targeting these cells. Atherosclerotic plaque involves a variety of cells and biomolecules, and its complex biological environment is a difficult point for the study and treatment of atherosclerosis. For treating atherosclerosis, a large number of studies emerged based on blocking or inhibiting factors affecting the formation and development of plaque. Cardiovascular stent intervention is currently the main method for the treatment of atherosclerosis. In recent decades, numerous studies on cardiovascular, stents mainly involve drug coating or biomolecular modification of stents to enhance anti-thrombosis, anti-restenosis and endothelialization. This paper introduces the research status of cardiovascular stents and new strategies for surface modification. The treatment of atherosclerosis based on the level of molecular biology and cell biology is becoming a research hotspot in the coming decades.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[<i>Salvia miltiorrhiza</i> Extract Prevents the Occurrence of Early Atherosclerosis
in Apoe -/- Mice via TLR4/ NF-kB Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129298</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Objective: <i>Salvia miltiorrhiza</i> (SM) contains four major aqueous active ingredients, which have been isolated, purified and identified as danshensu (DSS), salvianolic acid A (Sal-A), salvianolic acid B (Sal-B) and protocatechuic aldehyde (PAL), A mixture of these four ingredients is called SABP. Although aqueous extract from <i>Salvia miltiorrhiza</i> has been traditionally used to treat cardiovascular diseases, the efficacy and function of the optimal ratio of SABP in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases remain unknown. This study aims to explore the antiinflammatory mechanisms underlying the attenuation of atherosclerosis development by aqueous extract from <i>Salvia miltiorrhiza</i>. </p><p> Methods: Male ApoE<sup>-/-</sup> mice (6 weeks) were randomly allocated into three groups: the model group (Model), the SABP group (SABP), and the rosuvastatin calcium group (RC). Male C57BL/6 mice (6 weeks) were used as a control group. All mice were fed with an ordinary diet. After 8 weeks of treatment, the lipid profiles in serum and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) in heart tissue were measured using an automatic biochemical analyzer. Alterations of the thoracic aorta and the heart were assessed using Hematoxylin and eosin staining. The protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TGF beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-&#945; (TNF-&#945;) in the heart tissue were determined though immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis. </p><p> Results: The serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels were increased, and the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level was decreased in ApoE<sup>-/-</sup> mice. SABP significantly decreased serum lipid levels and improved histopathology in the thoracic aorta. In addition. SABP treatment inhibited the expression of TLR4, TAK1, NF-&#954;B, IL-6 and TNF-&#945; in the heart in ApoE<sup>-/-</sup> mice. The LDH and CK in the heart did not differ significantly among different groups, and the heart did not have obvious pathological changes. </p><p> Conclusion: These findings indicated that SABP may exert an anti-atherosclerotic effect by lowering blood lipids and inhibiting inflammatory response via TLR4/ NF-&#954;B signaling pathway.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[An Overview of Radiolabeled RGD Peptides for Theranostic Applications]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128090</link><description><![CDATA[Angiogenesis phenomenon, as a highly affecting factor on the growth and spread of cancer cells, depends on specific molecular interactions between components of the extracellular matrix and vascular cells. αv integrin acts as a cell adhesive molecule involved in tumor invasion and angiogenesis. Among the various combinations of integrin subunits expressed on the surface of cells, &#945;<sub>v</sub>&#946;<sub>3</sub> integrin has a particularly interesting expression pattern during angiogenesis. The &#945;<sub>v</sub>&#946;<sub>3</sub> integrin is a vital receptor affecting tumor growth, tumor invasiveness, metastasis, and angiogenesis overexpressed on various human tumors, leading to the development of different theranostics probes and radiopharmaceuticals. The &#945;<sub>v</sub>&#946;<sub>3</sub> integrin can recognize several extracellular matrix molecules in the base of the RGD adhesive sequence. This review provides an overview of the status, trends and future of the most studied &#945;<sub>v</sub>&#946;<sub>3</sub> integrin-binding ligand, RGD tripeptides, labeled with various radioisotopes. An overview of the pre-clinical models for radiolabeled RGD peptides and clinical aspects of the RGD- based radiopharmaceuticals is provided with some new considerations and ways forward.]]></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[Involvement of Metabolites and Non-coding RNAs in Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/126461</link><description><![CDATA[Non-coding RNAs have a role in gene regulation and cellular metabolism control. Metabolism produces metabolites which are small molecules formed during the metabolic process. So far, a direct relationship between metabolites and genes is not fully established; however, pseudogenes and their progenitor genes regulate health and disease states. Other non-coding RNAs also contribute to this regulation at different cellular processes. Accumulation and depletion of metabolites accompany the dynamic equilibrium of health and disease state. In this study, metabolites, their roles in the cell, and the link between metabolites and non-coding RNAs are discussed.]]></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[A Case of Subdural Hematoma without Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Secondary to Rupture of Posterior Communicating Artery-infundibular
Dilatation]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128254</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction: Subdural hematoma without subarachnoid hemorrhage secondary to intracranial aneurysm rupture is rare and may complicate patient management due to delay in diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Herein, we describe a case presenting with pure SDH secondary to the rupture of a posterior communicating artery infundibular dilatation (PcoA-ID). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of rupture of a PcoA-ID with SDH in the convexity and tentorium, which also tracked into the upper cervical spine along the subdural space. Additionally, we briefly discuss the previously published cases of pure SDH secondary to intracranial aneurysm rupture. <p> Case Report: A 44-year-old female presented with headache, dizziness, nausea and left-sided diplopia to an outside institution. Initial diagnostic work-up showed no intracranial hemorrhage, however, magnetic resonance angiography and subsequent digital subtraction angiography revealed left posterior communicating artery infundibular dilatation. Two days later, the patient presented with a loss of consciousness. Computed tomography was positive for bilateral hemispheric subdural hematoma with no evidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Digital subtraction angiography showed left posterior communicating artery infundibular dilatation and pseudoaneurysm originating from the inferior area of the infundibular dilatation, concerning recent rupture. Balloon assisted coil embolization was performed and the patient had a good outcome without any neurological deficit. <p> Conclusion: Subdural hematoma in a young adult without a history of trauma or coagulopathy warrants additional vascular imaging to search for underlying vascular lesions. It should also be kept in mind that infundibular dilatation may rupture and cause a pure subdural hematoma.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Dual Functions of Non-Coding RNA CRNDE in Different Tumors]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125873</link><description><![CDATA[Long non-coding RNA has attracted the interest of researchers as a relevant factor that can influence human cancers. As an oncogene and suppressor gene, it has numerous pathways and is closely related to the pathophysiology of human diseases. Meanwhile, it may become a novel treatment option and target for tumor treatment. CRNDE is the gene symbol for Colorectal Neoplasia Differentially Expressed (non-protein-coding) since it was found to be considerably higher in colorectal cancer when it was first discovered. It's transcribed from human chromosome 16. Many studies have shown that it is intimately linked to the etiology of many tumors and malignancies. According to the paper, the biological function and pathophysiological mechanism of CRNDE in tumors have been studied extensively in recent years. PubMed served as an essential platform for conducting literature searches and related analyses. CRNDE, a long non-coding RNA closely related to tumors, was highly expressed in many tumor cells. There were various underlying mechanisms affecting the progression of CRNDE-regulated tumorigenesis, including hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, prostate carcinoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma, breast cancer, thyroid cancer, myeloma, leukemia, melanoma, colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, osteosarcoma, cervical cancer, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, nonsmall cell lung cancer, hepatoblastoma cell tumor, abdominal aortic aneurysm, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, bladder cancer, Wilms tumor, medulloblastoma, pancreatic cancer, gallbladder cancer, ovarian cancer, and renal cell carcinoma. CRNDE is involved in the processes of proliferation, migration, invasion, and inhibition of apoptosis of various cancer cells.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Mechanism of Yi-Jing Decoction in Treating Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome by Using Network Pharmacology]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123182</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background: Yi-Jing decoction (YJD), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, has been reported to be effective in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the underlying mechanisms of YJD in treating PCOS are still unclear. <P> Objective: In the present work, the effective ingredients of YJD and their treatment mechanisms on PCOS were systematically analyzed. <P> Methods: The effective ingredients of YJD and targets of PCOS were selected from public databases. The network pharmacology method was used to analyze the ingredients, potential targets, and pathways of YJD for the treatment of PCOS. <P> Results: One hundred and three active ingredients were identified from YJD, of which 82 were hit by 65 targets associated with PCOS. By constructing the disease-common targetcompound network, five ingredients (quercetin, arachidonate, beta-sitosterol, betacarotene, and cholesterol) were selected out as the key ingredients of YJD, which can interact with the 10 hub genes (VEGFA, AKT1, TP53, ALB, TNF, PIK3CA, IGF1, INS, IL1B, PTEN) against PCOS. These genes are mainly involved in prostate cancer, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance pathways. In addition, the results of molecular docking showed that the ingredients of YJD have a good binding affinity with the hub genes. <P> Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the treatment of PCOS by YJD is through regulating the levels of androgen and insulin and improving the inflammatory microenvironment.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Giant Vertebral Artery Aneurysm in Behçet’s Disease: A Rare Case and
Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124171</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Behçet's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves systemic organs and vascular structures. Arterial system involvement is rarer than the venous system, and it is one of the major causes of death. Vertebral artery (VA) involvement is rare and there are a limited number of reported cases in the literature. This report aimed to present the imaging findings of a case of Behçet's disease with a giant aneurysm originating from the right VA. <p> Case Report: A 35-year-old woman with a 10-year history of Behçet's disease applied to our center with complaints of pain on the right side of the neck. CT angiography showed a 7.5x6.5 cm sized saccular aneurysm in the superior of the right hemithorax adjacent to the mediastinum, with contrast filling the V1 segment of the VA. In our case, the VA aneurysm had no relation to the subclavian artery and showed filling from the contralateral VA. The described findings were demonstrated in Doppler examination, phase-contrast MRI, and conventional and CT angiography. <p> Conclusion: Behçet's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that can involve the arterial system. Although VA involvement has not been reported frequently, this vasculitic process may affect all arterial structures.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mitral Valve Prolapse and Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes at High Risk]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128341</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is the most frequent valvulopathy in the general population, with usually a favourable prognosis. Although it can be associated with some complications, ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) are the most worrying. The estimated risk of SCD in MVP is between 0.2% to 1.9% per year, including MVP patients with and without severe mitral regurgitation (MR). The association between SCD and MVP is expressed by a phenotype called “malignant MVP” characterized by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) findings such as bileaflet myxomatous prolapse and mitral annulus disjunction (MAD), ECG findings such as repolarization abnormalities, complex ventricular arrhythmias (c-VAs) and LV fibrosis of papillary muscles (PMs) and inferobasal wall visualized by late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR). Therefore, attention is raised for patients with “arrhythmic MVP” characterized from an ECG point of view by frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) arising from one or both PMs as well as by T-wave inversion in the inferolateral leads. In athletes, SCD is the most frequent medical cause of death and in young subjects (< 35 years) usually is due to electrical mechanism affecting who has a silent cardiovascular disease and are not considered per se a cause of increased mortality. In MVP, SCD was reported to happen during sports activity or immediately after and valve prolapse was the only pathological aspect detected. <P> The aim of the present paper is to explore the association between SCD and MVP in athletes, focusing attention on ECG, TTE in particular, and CMR findings that could help to identify subjects at high risk for complex arrhythmias and eventually SCD. In addition, it is also examined if sports activity might predispose patients with MVP to develop major arrhythmias.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hyponatremia Related to Neurocritical Care: Focus on Diagnosis and
Therapy: A Systematic Review]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128160</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Introduction: Hyponatremia is the most frequently occurring electrolyte disorder in neurocritical care and traumatic brain injury, aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), neurosurgery, and ischemic stroke are the clinical conditions more often associated with this condition. SIADH and CSWS are the main causes of hyponatremia in neurologically ill patients. Since hyponatremia is a negative prognostic factor for neurocritical patients, early diagnosis and consequent targeted therapy are of fundamental importance. The present review was carried out to provide a brief recap on the main causes and management of hyponatremia in the neurocritical patient. <P> Methods: A methodical search of the medical literature using the online database MEDLINE was carried out and studies comprising case reports, prospective and retrospective observational studies, or randomized controlled clinical trials in which there is a diagnosis of hyponatremia in neurocritical patients were included. <P> Results: 18 articles were analyzed, consisting of 8 case reports, 4 case series, 3 prospective trials, 1 retrospective study, and 1 multicenter trial. A total of 1371 patients from 18 studies were included. Patients’ average age was 29.28 ± 20.9, respectively. TBI was the main cause of hyponatremia in the literature reviewed; 12 studies were about the relationship between TBI and hyponatremia, 2 studies about stroke, 2 studies about SAH and 1 about hyponatremia postneurosurgical procedure. <P> Discussion: Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in hospitalized patients and the main scenarios of hyponatremic neurocritical patients are subarachnoid hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury and iatrogenic hyponatremia due to neurosurgical cases. <P> Conclusion: Hyponatremia is a frequent finding in neurocritical care and is also a recognized negative prognostic factor leading to increased mortality and ICU length hospitalization. Its diagnosis and therapy are essential for correct neurocritical management. The most common cause of serum sodium abnormality is SIADH, and an early diagnosis for target treatment is paramount to prevent delayed symptoms and complications.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Second Part of Current Route of Neuro-Critical Care]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/129694</link><description><![CDATA[]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cerebral Vasospasm: Practical Review of Diagnosis and Management]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125402</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Cerebral vasospasm is one of the frequent complications that can occur following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). With new protocols in the management of SAH, the combined risk of death and long-term disability have been reduced by about 10% compared with the past. <p> Objective: This work aims to report the latest updates on the vasospasm developing after the SAH in patients in the ICU department. In this short review, we reviewed the latest scientific findings on the mechanisms of vasospasm, and in addition, we considered it necessary to review the literature to report the tools for early diagnosis of vasospasm and the best treatment strategies to prevent the negative outcome in patients admitted to ICU. <p> Aim: The aim of this narrative review is to report the main characteristics of vasospasm, new diagnostic methods, and, especially, more effective treatment of vasospasm. <p> Materials and Methods: The peer-reviewed articles analyzed were selected from PubMed, Google scholar, Embase, and Scopus databases published in the previous 20 years using the keywords \"vasospasm\", \"vasospasm diagnosis\", \"vasospasm and SAH\", \"vasospasm treatment\", and nontraumatic brain injury. Among the 78 papers identified, 43 articles were selected; after the title - abstract examination and removing the duplicates, only 31 articles were examined. <p> Results: Vasospasm can be classified according to clinical (asymptomatic vs. symptomatic) and diagnostic (angiographic vs. ultrasound) methods. Various procedures such as TCD and CT perfusion are used for early diagnosis and close monitoring of this condition. The treatment of vasospasm consists of both prevention (nimodipine, statitis, and magnesium sulphate) and active treatment (mainly endovascular). <p> Conclusion: As the review shows, vasospasm is a complication of SAH, a complication that is difficult to recognize early and treat with the best outcome. However, with the equipment we have, it has been possible to improve the outcome, even if it is still not ideal, in patients who develop vasospasm. Several studies are in the final stages to improve the outcome of this unfortunately frequent condition.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The 100 Most-Cited Papers on Giant Cell Arteritis: A Bibliometric
Analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124037</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Giant cell arteritis (GCA) carries a significant risk of vascular and visual morbidity. Given its clinical importance, the 100 most frequently cited articles on GCA were systematically identified and bibliometrically analyzed. <p> Methods: All databases belonging to the Web of Science platform were searched for research articles with no restriction on publication date. The distribution of papers among journals, countries of origin, and publication types were evaluated. The correlations between the year of publication with total number of citations and annual citation rate were also assessed. <p> Results: The top 100 articles on GCA were published between 1946 and 2018 and were cited a median (range) of 229 (153-1751) times. The papers were published in 30 journals, including nine rheumatology journals (n= 45), seven general medical journals (n= 21), three ophthalmology journals (n= 8), and eleven journals from other fields of research (n= 26). Based on corresponding author affiliation, the articles originated from 13 countries, led by the US (n= 55), Spain (n= 12), and the UK (n= 11). Clinical studies (n= 73) and non-systematic reviews (n= 11) were the most common publication types. The median (range) number of authors per article was 5 (1-44), and 73 individuals had more than one authorship. Year of publication was significantly correlated with the annual citation rate (P<0.001) but not with the total number of citations (P= 0.487). <p> Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis provides insight into the history and evolution of GCA research, highlighting some of the most influential contributions to the field. The latest landmark papers may not have been identified due to temporal constraints on citation accumulation.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[P2Y<sub>6</sub>R: A Promising New Target in Inflammatory Diseases and Advances in its Antagonists]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/124428</link><description><![CDATA[P2Y receptors (P2YRs) are G protein-coupled receptors that are activated by extracellular nucleotides. The P2Y6 receptor (P2Y<sub>6</sub>R) is specifically activated by UDP, causing PKC activation and intracellular calcium ion release through the PLC pathway. Based on receptor tissue distribution and related pathways, several studies have reported that P2Y<sub>6</sub>R plays a physiological role in mediating inflammation, which suggests that P2Y<sub>6</sub>R could be a promising molecular target for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In the past ten years, several P2Y<sub>6</sub>R antagonists have been discovered as new therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases. In this article, we systematically summarize the role of P2Y<sub>6</sub>R in inflammation and highlight the anti-inflammatory mechanism of a key P2Y<sub>6</sub>R antagonist, MRS2578. Insight into recent progress on the discovery of P2Y<sub>6</sub>R antagonists is also discussed.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Hymenoptera Venom Allergy and Anaphylaxis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125517</link><description><![CDATA[Hymenoptera stings can induce allergic and occasionally fatal reactions, and are responsible for significant morbidity and deterioration in health-related quality of life. The diagnostic work-up must consider the medical history of patients, in the context of venom allergy epidemiology and Hymenoptera taxonomy, and the clinical manifestations of the reactions, to channel the available in vivo and in vitro tests towards the most accurate diagnosis and the consequent appropriate management, also considering the risk profile of the patients on a precision-medicine approach. All these aspects are covered by this work that aims at providing an up-to-date review to increase the awareness of this topic among interested stakeholders, like healthcare professionals and political decision makers, who can contribute to the proper immediate and long-term management of venom allergy and anaphylaxis.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[New Insights of Early Brain Injury after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A
Focus on the Caspase Family]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/122706</link><description><![CDATA[Spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), primarily caused by ruptured intracranial aneurysms, remains a prominent clinical challenge with a high rate of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Accumulating clinical trials aiming at the prevention of cerebral vasospasm (CVS) have failed to improve the clinical outcome of patients with SAH. Therefore, a growing number of studies have shifted focus to the pathophysiological changes that occur during the periods of early brain injury (EBI). New pharmacological agents aiming to alleviate EBI have become a promising direction to improve outcomes after SAH. Caspases belong to a family of cysteine proteases with diverse functions involved in maintaining metabolism, autophagy, tissue differentiation, regeneration, and neural development. Increasing evidence shows that caspases play a critical role in brain pathology after SAH. Therefore, caspase regulation could be a potential target for SAH treatment. Herein, we provide an overview pertaining to the current knowledge on the role of caspases in EBI after SAH, and we discuss the promising therapeutic value of caspase-related agents after SAH.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Diabetes Mellitus and Bell’s Palsy]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121454</link><description><![CDATA[The aim of the present brief review was to discuss Bell’s palsy (BP) in diabetes mellitus (DM). The risk of BP is increased in DM. DM subjects with BP are more prone to severe facial nerve degeneration. Further characteristics of BP in DM include a) infrequent taste impairment; b) more frequent and more marked facial nerve subclinical electrophysiological impairment; c) more frequent Blink reflex impairment; d) potentially concurrent distal symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy; e) more frequent alternating BP with recurrent episodes affecting different sides of the face. Diagnosis of BP rests on clinical examination, along with facial nerve electromyographic and electroneurographic evaluation. Management of BP in DM includes physical therapy, corticosteroids, and antiviral agents. Finally, acupuncture, low-level laser therapy, lipoprostaglandin E1, and stellate ganglion block are new modalities with initially promising results.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Qingchang Mixture Prevents the Intestinal Ischemia-reperfusion Injury
through TLR4/NF-kB Pathway]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/121899</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Object: This study aims to determine the protective effect and molecular responses of the traditional Chinese medicine Qingchang mixture on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. <p> Methods: The rat intestinal IR model was prepared. The intestinal ischemic injury was evaluated by HE staining, biochemical assay and western blot. In addition, a human hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR) in vitro model was prepared using intestinal epithelial cells (IEC-6). The viability and apoptosis of IEC-6 cells were measured by CCK8 and apoptosis detection. TAK242 or PDTC was used as a small molecule inhibitor of TLR4 or NF-κB, respectively. <p> Results: Compared with the IR group, the pretreatment of the Qingchang mixture reduced the morphological damage, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and barrier function damage of the small intestine tissue. IR significantly increased the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB, while the pretreatment of the Qingchang mixture inhibited the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB. Furthermore, the pretreatment of Qingchang mixture, TAK242, or PDTC effectively improved the viability and hindered apoptosis of the HR-induced IEC-6 cells. <p> Conclusions: Traditional Chinese medicine Qingchang mixture prevents intestinal IR injury through TLR4/NF-kB pathway.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Neurological Complications in Systemic Inflammatory Diseases]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/123706</link><description><![CDATA[Systemic inflammatory diseases could produce neurologic complications, and they are frequently incorporated in the differential diagnosis of neurological symptoms. There are wellestablished criteria to meet the diagnosis of neurologic manifestations of these systemic diseases. <p> Methods: However, the range of clinical presentations varies in each condition, and the prevalence of these complications differs between studies. Hence, in many cases, an etiological relationship is not clearly defined. <p> Results and Conclusion: For these reasons, it is challenging to make an accurate diagnosis. We analyzed the spectrum of neurological manifestations in a cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Behçet disease and sarcoidosis in order to improve our current knowledge of these complications.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Lipoprotein (a) Levels and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. A Systematic Review
and Meta-analysis]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/127798</link><description><![CDATA[<p>Background: Several studies have linked high Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) concentrations to cardiovascular events, including the formation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA). We review and meta-analyze existing evidence on the association of Lp(a) levels with AAA. <p> Methods: Studies evaluating the link of Lp(a) with AAA, up to December 27th 2021, were identified by a systematic search of PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases. The results were qualitatively and quantitatively synthesized according to PRISMA guidelines. Results are presented as standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). <p> Results: A total of 5,078 subjects (1,637 patients with AAA vs. 3,441 controls) from 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a mean age of 69.9 years and a male sex prevalence of 85.8%. Based on the qualitative synthesis, high Lp(a) concentrations are linked to abdominal aortic wall degradation and extracellular matrix disarrangement. Moreover, despite the considerable variability among races, high Lp(a) levels are related to increased AAA risk, independently of race differences. Accordingly, patients with AAA displayed significantly higher Lp(a) levels compared to controls (SMD: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.55-1.17, p < 0.001). The outcome was not affected in a sensitivity analysis excluding three outlying studies (SMD: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.22-0.58, p < 0.001). <p> Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates the association between high Lp(a) levels and the presence of AAA, although existing literature presents high heterogeneity. Further studies are needed to standardize Lp(a) measurements and to conclude whether Lp(a) can be used as a sensitive biomarker of early presymptomatic AAA diagnosis.</p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Association of Rebleeding and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia with Long-term
Mortality Among 1-year Survivors After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/125733</link><description><![CDATA[<P>Background and Objective: The potential impact of rebleeding and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia (DCI) on long-term survival in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) remained unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether DCI and rebleeding increase the risk of long-term all-cause mortality in patients with aSAH who survived the follow-up period of one year. <P> Methods: We retrospectively collected data on patients with atraumatic aSAH who were still alive 12 months after aSAH occurrence between December 2013 and June 2019 from the electronic health system. Patients were then classified by the occurrence of rebleeding or DCI during hospitalization. Death records were obtained from an administrative database, the Chinese Household Registration Administration System, until April 20, 2021. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare overall survival in different groups. Sensitivity analysis was performed with propensity-score matching (PSM). <P> Results: A total of 2,607 patients were alive one year after aSAH. The crude annual death rate from any cause among patients who had rebleeding (7.2 per 100 person-years) and patients who had DCI (3.7 per 100 person-years) during hospitalization was higher than that of patients with neither event (2.1 per 100 person-years). Multivariate analysis showed that rebleeding is an independent risk factor for long-term mortality (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 2.37; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.47- 3.81). DCI was an independent prognostic factor of poorer overall survival (aHR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.54-2.84). <P> Conclusion: Amongst patients alive one year after aSAH, rebleeding and DCI during hospitalization were independently associated with higher rates of long-term mortality.</P>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Anemic Newborn at Birth: From Diagnosis to Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.comarticle/128328</link><description><![CDATA[Neonatal anaemia is a very frequent clinical condition that may be due to apparent or not evident blood loss, decreased red blood cells (RBCs) production, or increased destruction of RBCs. RBCs transfusion criteria are clearly defined by several national and locally agreed guidelines. However, it is not possible to define a unique cut-off to guide clinicians' transfusion practice, which needs a multiparametric analysis of demographic variables (gestational age, postnatal age, birth weight), clinical evaluation, conventional and new generation monitoring (such as echocardiography and near-infrared spectroscopy). Unfortunately, few tools are available in the delivery room to help neonatologists in the management of newborn with acute anaemia. Early volume replacement with cristalloids and RBCs transfusion could be life-saving in the delivery room when a hypovolaemic shock is suspected, but the use of un-crossmatched whole is not risk-free nor easily available in clinical practice. Placental transfusion could be an extremely effective and inexpensive method to increase haemoglobin (Hb), to improve oxygen delivery, and to increase cardiac output with a reduced need for RBCs transfusions, a reduced risk of intraventricular haemorrhages, and an improved survival of the newborn.]]></description> </item></channel></rss>