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1.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 21448, 2024 09 13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39271729

ABSTRACT

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) have the potential application in evaluating pathological structural change of the optic nerve. We aimed to evaluate the value of the OCT and OCTA parameters of the optic disk and macular in differentiating early chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (CPACG) and early pituitary adenoma (PA) in case of mild visual field defects (the mean defect (MD) > 6 dB). The results showed that regarding OCTA parameters, CPACG patients had lower retinal blood flow density of most layers of the optic disk and macular than PA patients. Regarding OCT parameters, CPACG patients had thinner circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (CP-RNFL) in all quadrants and average CP-RNFL, ganglion cell layer (GCL) and macular ganglion cell complex (GCC) in each quadrant of macular inner and outer rings, and inner plexus layer (IPL) of macular inner ring, superior-outer ring and temporal-outer ring than PA patients. The Z test indicated that OCTA parameters and OCT parameters had similar value in the diagnosis of disease. In conclusion, in the case of similar visual field damage, early CPACG patients have smaller blood flow density and thinner optic disk and macular than early PA. OCTA has similar performance to OCT in diagnosing CPACG and PA.


Subject(s)
Adenoma , Glaucoma, Angle-Closure , Optic Disk , Pituitary Neoplasms , Tomography, Optical Coherence , Humans , Tomography, Optical Coherence/methods , Glaucoma, Angle-Closure/physiopathology , Glaucoma, Angle-Closure/diagnosis , Glaucoma, Angle-Closure/pathology , Glaucoma, Angle-Closure/diagnostic imaging , Pituitary Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Pituitary Neoplasms/pathology , Male , Female , Middle Aged , Adenoma/pathology , Adenoma/diagnostic imaging , Optic Disk/pathology , Optic Disk/diagnostic imaging , Adult , Chronic Disease , Retinal Ganglion Cells/pathology , Visual Fields/physiology , Aged
2.
Ir J Med Sci ; 2024 Sep 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39254748

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Cosmetic tourism is an increasingly common phenomenon, both in Ireland and internationally. Complications associated with procedures performed abroad may manifest after the patient has traveled back to their home country with patients often presenting to local health services. Such complications can be infectious in nature requiring either antimicrobial therapy and/or source control in the form of wound debridement or radiologically guided interventional procedures. METHODS: Patients who had presented to a regional plastic surgery unit between September 2021 and December 2022 with complications related to aesthetic procedures performed outside Ireland were identified in this retrospective-prospective design. Medical records were reviewed to ascertain what procedures were performed, where the procedure had taken place, the nature of complications, and microbial culture and sensitivity results. RESULTS: Thirty patients were identified during the study timeframe, predominantly female (n = 28) with a mean age of 40.27 years (SD 10.6). Abdominoplasty was the most common procedure (n = 17), and Turkey was the most frequently cited destination (70%). Wound dehiscence accounted for the majority of complications (n = 18). Wound cultures were obtained in 80% (n = 24) of patients and a causative organism was isolated in 85% (n = 34) of cultures. Eighteen species of bacteria were identified and antimicrobial sensitivities were obtained for 16 of these. Antimicrobial resistance to commonly prescribed empiric antibiotics was noted in several isolates. CONCLUSION: Post-operative infections related to cosmetic tourism are a growing concern in plastic surgery. The bacterial etiology is varied, and antimicrobial resistance poses significant challenges, highlighting the need for early intervention and wound cultures to guide effective management.

3.
J Psychosom Res ; 187: 111910, 2024 Sep 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39255588

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Older adults with heart disease often experience higher rates of comorbid anxiety and depression. This study examined depression and anxiety network structures among older adults with heart disease and their heart disease free peers. METHODS: Network analyses of secondary cross-sectional data from the 2017 to 2018 wave of CLHLS were used to construct groups of older adults with and without heart disease using propensity score matching. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, respectively. Central symptoms and bridge symptoms were identified using expected influence. RESULTS: 1689 older adults with heart disease and matched control sample of 1689 older adults without heart disease were included. The prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety were significantly higher in older adults with heart disease compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in overall structures of depression and anxiety network models between two the groups. Key central symptoms and bridge symptoms within these groups were highly similar; GAD 2 "Uncontrollable worrying" and GAD 4 "Trouble relaxing" were identified as the most central symptoms, while GAD 1 "Nervousness" and CESD 1 "Feeling bothered" were identified as key bridge symptoms across both network models. CONCLUSION: Depression and anxiety are more prevalent in older adults with heart disease than demographically-matched heart disease free controls. However, network structures of these symptoms do not differ between two groups. Accordingly, depression and anxiety psychosocial interventions developed for older adults without heart disease may also benefit older adults with heart disease.

4.
Plant Physiol ; 2024 Sep 24.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39315969

ABSTRACT

Abscisic acid signaling has been implicated in plant responses to water deficit-induced osmotic stress. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unelucidated. This study identified the RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase RING ZINC FINGER PROTEIN1 (PtrRZFP1) in poplar (Populus trichocarpa), a woody model plant. PtrRZFP1 encodes a ubiquitin E3 ligase that participates in protein ubiquitination. PtrRZFP1 mainly functions in the nucleus and endoplasmic reticulum and is activated by drought and abscisic acid. PtrRZFP1-overexpressing transgenic poplars (35S:PtrRZFP1) showed greater tolerance to drought, whereas PtrRZFP1-knockdown lines (KD-PtrRZFP1) showed greater sensitivity to drought. Under treatment with polyethylene glycol and abscisic acid, PtrRZFP1 promoted the production of NO and H2O2 in stomatal guard cells, ultimately enhancing stomatal closure and improving drought tolerance. Additionally, PtrRZFP1 physically interacted with the clade A Protein Phosphatase 2C protein PtrPP2C-9, a core regulator of abscisic acid signaling, and mediated its ubiquitination and eventual degradation through the ubiquitination-26S proteasome system, indicating that PtrRZFP1 positively regulates the abscisic acid signaling pathway. Furthermore, the PtrPP2C-9-overexpression line was insensitive to abscisic acid and more sensitive to drought than the wild-type plants, whereas the opposite phenotype was observed in 35S:PtrRZFP1 plants. In general, PtrRZFP1 negatively regulates the stability of PtrPP2C-9 to mediate poplar drought tolerance. The results of this study provide a theoretical framework for the targeted breeding of drought-tolerant traits in perennial woody plants.

5.
J Affect Disord ; 369: 227-233, 2024 Sep 14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39284529

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Behavioral and emotional problems are common and often co-occur during childhood and adolescence. The aim of this study was to assess gender differences in the network structures of behavioral and emotional problems of children and adolescents in China based on a national survey. METHODS: The Parent version of Achenbach' s Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) was used to assess behavioral and emotional problems. To account for potential confounding factors in comparisons between boys and girls, propensity score matching was utilized. Network model differences were assessed using Network Comparison Test (NCT). RESULTS: Data from 60,715 children and adolescents were included for analyses. Boys exhibited more severe total behavioral and emotional problems compared to girls. While several edges showed significant differences between boys and girls, the strongest association was consistently found between "Attention problems" (CBCL6) and "Aggressive behavior"(CBCL8) in both boys and girls, regardless of age. Network centrality was higher among adolescents compared to children. The most central problems commonly found across different genders and age groups were "Aggressive behavior" (CBCL8) (centrality values were 1.142 for boys aged 6-11 years, 1.051 for boys aged 12-16 years, 1.148 for girls aged 6-11 years, and 1.028 for girls aged 12-16 years), "Anxious/depressed" (CBCL1) (centrality values of 0.892 for boys aged between 6 and 11 years, 1.031 for boys aged 12-16 years, 0.951 for girls aged 6-11 years, and 1.099 for girls aged 12-16 years) and "Social problems" (CBCL4) (centrality values of 1.080 for boys aged 6-11 years, 0.978 for boys aged 12-16 years, 1.086 for girls aged between 6 and 11 years, and 0.929 for girls aged 12-16 years). CONCLUSION: Testing effective interventions that address aggressive behavior, anxiety/depression, and social problems may be beneficial for reducing risk of psychopathology among children and adolescents.

6.
Int J Biol Macromol ; 280(Pt 2): 135627, 2024 Sep 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39306172

ABSTRACT

This study aims to investigate the properties of edible Pickering emulsions (PEs) stabilized by donkey myofibrillar protein (DMP). The DMP was characterized by an atomic force microscope and interfacial tensiometer. The PEs stabilized by DMP were characterized by a confocal laser scanning microscope, rheometer, and lumisizer stability analyzer. The results showed that the DMP particles were spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 143.97 nm. The DMP could reduce the oil-water interfacial tension very well. The emulsifying activity index was below 14.06 m2/g, and the emulsion stability index was up to 93.76% when the DMP concentration was above 10 mg/mL. Increasing the concentration of DMP (5 mg/mL to 25 mg/mL) could decrease the emulsion droplet sizes and fluidity of the PEs and increase the viscoelasticity of the PEs. The increase in the oil-water ratio (1:9 to 5:5) resulted in a larger average emulsion droplet size, reduced fluidity, and enhanced viscoelasticity. The increase in DMP concentration (from 5 mg/mL to 25 mg/mL) and oil-water ratio (from 1:9 to 4:6) improved the physical stability of the PEs. These results may expand the application of DMP and provide new insight into developing edible PEs suitable for the formulation of functional foods.

7.
J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg ; 98: 339-341, 2024 Sep 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39332160

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Aesthetic surgery tourism is a flourishing trend, and challenges often arise when patients return home with post-operative complications, necessitating follow-up care. METHODS: Between July 2021 and June 2023, we conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who presented with complications from aesthetic surgery tourism in two major teaching hospitals in Ireland. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients with a mean age of 41 years were identified. Procedures were predominantly performed in Turkey (67%), followed by Lithuania (24%). Complications included wound dehiscence (n = 22), infections (n = 9), seroma (n = 9), haematoma (n = 2) and skin necrosis (n = 1). A total of 27 operations were performed, with an average hospital stay of four days and a per-patient cost of €5 486. CONCLUSION: Complications from aesthetic surgery abroad not only have a psychological and financial impact on the individuals involved but also strain our public healthcare system. Therefore, it is important for us, as medical professionals to advocate for our patients in order for them to make informed and safe decisions before seeking healthcare abroad.

8.
Int J Biol Macromol ; : 136141, 2024 Sep 28.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39349084

ABSTRACT

This study sought to develop an edible active film by integrating Pickering emulsions of forsythia essential oil and bacterial nanofibers at various concentrations into a film-forming matrix composed of funoran (F). The stability of the emulsions was evaluated through examination of the micro-morphology, particle size and distribution, 7-day emulsification index, and embedding rate of the Pickering emulsions. Subsequently, selected Pickering emulsions were incorporated into F to generate the edible active film. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy revealed that the Pickering emulsion was uniformly distributed throughout the F film, interconnected by hydrogen bonds. X-ray Diffraction spectra exhibited changes in peak intensity and shifts in position attributable to the edible active film. Pickering emulsion had a minimal impact on thermal stability. The film's tensile strength significantly increased, while elongation at break decreased. The heightened concentration of hydroxyl groups in the film led to increased thickness, reduced moisture content, and enhanced hygroscopicity. The edible active film exhibited superior antioxidant and antibacterial properties, thereby more efficiently shielding against oxygen and water vapour. In preservation tests involving chicken and lamb, the Pickering emulsion led to elevations in pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels in the meat.

10.
JACS Au ; 4(8): 3170-3182, 2024 Aug 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39211601

ABSTRACT

In this study, we present the first example of using a machine learning (ML)-assisted design strategy to optimize the synthesis formulation of enzyme/ZIFs (zeolitic imidazolate framework) for enhanced performance. Glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were chosen as model enzymes, while Zn(eIM)2 (eIM = 2-ethylimidazolate) was selected as the model ZIF to test our ML-assisted workflow paradigm. Through an iterative ML-driven training-design-synthesis-measurement workflow, we efficiently discovered GOx/ZIF (G151) and HRP/ZIF (H150) with their overall performance index (OPI) values (OPI represents the product of encapsulation efficiency (E in %), retained enzymatic activity (A in %), and thermal stability (T in %)) at least 1.3 times higher than those in systematic seed data studies. Furthermore, advanced statistical methods derived from the trained random forest model qualitatively and quantitatively reveal the relationship among synthesis, structure, and performance in the enzyme/ZIF system, offering valuable guidance for future studies on enzyme/ZIFs. Overall, our proposed ML-assisted design strategy holds promise for accelerating the development of enzyme/ZIFs and other enzyme immobilization systems for biocatalysis applications and beyond, including drug delivery and sensing, among others.

11.
Emerg Infect Dis ; 30(9): 1922-1925, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39174030

ABSTRACT

We investigated a fatal case of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis from an indoor surfing center in Taiwan. The case was detected through encephalitis syndromic surveillance. Of 56 environmental specimens, 1 was positive for Naegleria fowleri ameba. This report emphasizes the risk for N. fowleri infection from inadequately disinfected recreational waters, even indoors.


Subject(s)
Central Nervous System Protozoal Infections , Naegleria fowleri , Humans , Naegleria fowleri/isolation & purification , Naegleria fowleri/genetics , Taiwan/epidemiology , Central Nervous System Protozoal Infections/parasitology , Central Nervous System Protozoal Infections/diagnosis , Central Nervous System Protozoal Infections/epidemiology , Fatal Outcome , Male , Meningoencephalitis/parasitology , Meningoencephalitis/diagnosis , Amebiasis/diagnosis , Amebiasis/parasitology , Adult
12.
Heliyon ; 10(14): e34039, 2024 Jul 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39104488

ABSTRACT

This study delves into the intricate relationship between economic growth and its ecological repercussions, employing a comprehensive assessment of ecological footprint across 131 nations. The time period considered for the research spans from 2009 to 2019. Utilizing the CS-ARDL methodology, the results indicate a correlation between reducing ecological footprint and bolstering private sector domestic credit. Additionally, a relationship between diminishing private sector domestic credit of banks and augmenting private sector domestic credit within the financial sector has been identified. In conjunction with other indicators of financial advancement, the significance of domestic lending to the private sector has been underscored. The study reveals a notable reduction in human population's adverse impact on the environment. However, increased levels of energy consumption, foreign direct investment and per capita GDP are associated with an improvement in global quality of life. Particularly noteworthy is the validation of the "pollution haven hypothesis" in the global economic context. The implications of this research are substantial; suggesting that global economic dynamics may support efforts towards environmental conservation. However, outcomes may vary across regions or countries, particularly regarding the emphasis placed by the financial sector on environmental preservation. This study comprehensively examines the complex nexus between economic progress and its ecological consequences, keeping in consideration factors such as financial growth, urbanization, energy consumption and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

13.
J Pediatr Nurs ; 79: 24-31, 2024 Aug 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39190967

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To explore the lived experiences of mothers caring for school-age children with Pompe disease. DESIGN AND METHODS: A qualitative study using a descriptive phenomenology approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from October to December 2022 with 10 mothers of school-age children diagnosed with Pompe disease, which were identified through the Taiwan Pompe Disease Association. Colaizzi's phenomenological method was employed for data analysis. RESULTS: The study identified five themes in the caregiving experiences of mothers: 1. unwavering parenting beliefs; 2. child-centric approach; 3. focus on peer relationships and coping strategies; 4. integration of learning, treatment, and rehabilitation; and 5. embracing and navigating life's challenges. Mothers balanced education, treatment, and rehabilitation for their children with Pompe disease, offering perspectives into the caregiving experience. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the complex experiences of mothers caring for children with Pompe disease, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Insights into the perspectives of mothers can aid health-care professionals in understanding the challenges faced by families with children diagnosed with Pompe disease and can enable the development of strategies for providing comprehensive psychological support to improve mental health outcomes for these children and their families. Increased awareness among health-care professionals and in the society leads to an informed and empathetic approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by children with Pompe disease and their families.

14.
J Assist Reprod Genet ; 41(9): 2485-2494, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39215793

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The objective of the trial was to compare the regression rate of atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) in patients treated with megestrol acetate (MA) vs. levonorgestrel-intrauterine device (LNG-IUS). We also aimed to assess the fertility and pregnancy outcomes in these patients. METHODS: The study was a phase II multi-centre randomised controlled trial on the use of MA compared to LNG-IUS in the treatment of AEH conducted from January 2020 to January 2024 in Singapore. Women who were diagnosed with AEH and between 21 and 40 years old were included. The patients were randomised to receive either MA (160 mg orally daily) or LNG-IUS. The primary outcomes assessed were the regression rates at 3 months, 6 months and 9 months of treatment. The secondary outcomes assessed were the side effects, patient acceptability and fertility outcomes. RESULTS: Thirty-six patients completed the trial. The overall regression rate was 88.9% by 9 months. There was no statistically significant difference in the 9-month complete regression rate between MA vs. LNG-IUS. There was also no significant difference in side effects and weight change between both arms. Nineteen patients were actively pursuing fertility after complete regression. There were 8 pregnancies achieved, with resultant 4 live births and 4 miscarriages. CONCLUSION: Our study confirms a high regression rate of AH with medical treatment. LNG-IUS is a non-inferior treatment compared to megestrol acetate. Successful pregnancy outcomes can be achieved after regression of AEH. Long-term studies of sufficient sample-size are needed to assess for fertility and pregnancy outcomes, risk of recurrence and long-term risk of malignancy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: The study was registered with the Health Science Authority (HSA) (License No.: CTA1900087) on September 5, 2019: https://eservice.hsa.gov.sg/prism/ct_r/enquiry.do?action=loadSpecificDetail . The trial was registered retrospectively on ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT05492487) on April 7, 2022: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05492487 .


Subject(s)
Endometrial Hyperplasia , Fertility Preservation , Intrauterine Devices, Medicated , Levonorgestrel , Megestrol Acetate , Humans , Female , Levonorgestrel/administration & dosage , Levonorgestrel/therapeutic use , Pregnancy , Adult , Endometrial Hyperplasia/drug therapy , Endometrial Hyperplasia/pathology , Megestrol Acetate/therapeutic use , Megestrol Acetate/administration & dosage , Fertility Preservation/methods , Pregnancy Outcome , Pregnancy Rate , Young Adult
15.
Biomacromolecules ; 25(9): 5758-5770, 2024 Sep 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39145523

ABSTRACT

Lanthanide-containing luminescent hydrogels have shown potential for sensing and imaging applications. Nonetheless, integrating lanthanide ions or complexes into the polymer matrix often results in the poor stability and mechanical strength of the hydrogels. This work presents an innovative approach to fabricating luminescent hydrogels with three dynamic cross-links: imine bond, boronate ester bond, and metal-ligand coordination. Europium(III) (Eu3+) ions are incorporated into a dual-cross-linked matrix composed of phenylboronic acid-polyethylenimine-modified gelatin (PPG) and alginate dialdehyde (ADA) through a combined treatment involving freeze-drying-swelling (FDS) and freeze-thawing (FT) processes. The FDS process facilitates the formation of additional europium-carboxylate cross-links within the polymeric network to enhance its luminescence and stability, while the FT process strengthens the network physically. The impact of the FDS-FT cycle number on the microstructures and properties of PPG/ADA-Eu3+ hydrogels is thoroughly investigated, and their potential for monitoring bacterial growth and detecting copper(II) ions is also demonstrated.


Subject(s)
Alginates , Gelatin , Hydrogels , Alginates/chemistry , Hydrogels/chemistry , Gelatin/chemistry , Europium/chemistry , Cross-Linking Reagents/chemistry , Freeze Drying/methods , Luminescence , Freezing , Glucuronic Acid/chemistry , Hexuronic Acids/chemistry
16.
J Pediatr Nurs ; 78: e417-e423, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39122579

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Parenting resilience is essential for the well-being and development of children with chronic illnesses. Given the importance of parenting resilience in this context, this study explored the nature of parenting resilience among mothers caring for adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD). DESIGN AND METHODS: We adopted Husserl's phenomenological approach and conducted semistructured in-depth interviews. In addition, we conducted purposive sampling at the pediatric cardiology outpatient departments of 2 medical centers in Taiwan to recruit 11 mothers of adolescents with CHD; all of these adolescents had received open-heart surgery. Furthermore, we analyzed data by using Colaizzi's approach, and we adhered to the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research checklist. RESULTS: Mothers caring for adolescents with CHD was a dynamic process involving problem solving. The 11 mothers in this study employed resilience to remain strong, provided a sense of normalcy for their children, and approached challenges calmly and bravely. We uncovered three major themes among these mothers: "providing support for the child, "facing challenges with equanimity," and "overcoming adversity through positivity and gratitude." CONCLUSIONS: The present results provide a deeper understanding of how mothers caring for adolescents with CHD can cultivate resilience. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The study's findings can inform transitional programs for adolescents with CHD and their families, with nursing professionals supporting mothers' resilience.


Subject(s)
Heart Defects, Congenital , Mother-Child Relations , Mothers , Qualitative Research , Resilience, Psychological , Humans , Female , Heart Defects, Congenital/nursing , Heart Defects, Congenital/psychology , Adolescent , Mothers/psychology , Adult , Taiwan , Male , Adaptation, Psychological , Parenting/psychology
17.
J Mol Biol ; 436(20): 168750, 2024 Oct 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39173734

ABSTRACT

The final step in the de novo synthesis of cytidine 5'-triphosphate (CTP) is catalyzed by CTP synthase (CTPS), which can form cytoophidia in all three domains of life. Recently, we have discovered that CTPS binds to ribonucleotides (NTPs) to form filaments, and have successfully resolved the structures of Drosophila melanogaster CTPS bound with NTPs. Previous biochemical studies have shown that CTPS can bind to deoxyribonucleotides (dNTPs) to produce 2'-deoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate (dCTP). However, the structural basis of CTPS binding to dNTPs is still unclear. In this study, we find that Drosophila CTPS can also form filaments with dNTPs. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we are able to resolve the structure of Drosophila melanogaster CTPS bound to dNTPs with a resolution of up to 2.7 Å. By combining these structural findings with biochemical analysis, we compare the binding and reaction characteristics of NTPs and dNTPs with CTPS. Our results indicate that the same enzyme can act bifunctionally as CTP/dCTP synthase in vitro, and provide a structural basis for these activities.


Subject(s)
Carbon-Nitrogen Ligases , Cryoelectron Microscopy , Drosophila melanogaster , Animals , Carbon-Nitrogen Ligases/chemistry , Carbon-Nitrogen Ligases/metabolism , Carbon-Nitrogen Ligases/genetics , Cytidine Triphosphate/metabolism , Cytidine Triphosphate/chemistry , Deoxycytosine Nucleotides/metabolism , Deoxycytosine Nucleotides/chemistry , Drosophila melanogaster/enzymology , Models, Molecular , Protein Binding , Protein Conformation
18.
Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther ; 49: 104298, 2024 Jul 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39089477

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of CO2 fractional laser and microneedling pretreatment combined with ALA-PDT for moderate-to-severe acne, aiming to optimize clinical treatment. METHODS: Patients were randomly divided into three groups: Group A (CO2 fractional laser + ALA-PDT), Group B (microneedling + ALA-PDT), and Group C (ALA-PDT). Each group underwent photodynamic therapy once a week for 3 weeks. Efficacy was assessed at the end of the 4th week, and recurrence was assessed at the end of the 12th week. RESULTS: A total of 150 patients with moderate to severe acne were included in this study, with 50 patients in each group. Four weeks after the end of treatment, the effective rates were 88 % for Group A, 62 % for Group B, and 36 % for Group C. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups (P < 0.05), with Group A showing superior efficacy compared to Group B (P < 0.05). No serious systemic or local adverse reactions were observed in any group. No recurrence was seen in any group 12 weeks after the end of treatment, and some patients continued to show improvement in skin lesions over time. CONCLUSION: Both the CO2 fractional laser group and the microneedling group improved the efficacy of photodynamic therapy for moderate to severe acne compared to the control group, with the CO2 fractional laser group demonstrating better efficacy and fewer adverse effects.

20.
J Parkinsons Dis ; 14(6): 1211-1223, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39031382

ABSTRACT

Background: While multiple system atrophy (MSA) presents with high heterogeneous motor and nonmotor symptoms, the associations between clinical phenotypes and prognosis are unclear. Objective: We aimed to evaluate clinical phenotypes of MSA using data-driven approach and measure the impact of phenotypes on survival and bedbound status. Methods: 193 MSA patients were recruited from Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, whose history, motor and non-motor symptoms were examined using cluster analysis. Ninety-five participants were followed-up via telephone after a mean of 31.87 months. We employed Kaplan- Meier analysis to examine survival and performed Cox and logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with survival and bedbound status. Results: We identified four clinical profiles of MSA: cerebellar symptom-dominant, sleep and mood disorder-dominant, rigid akinetic-dominant, and malignant diffuse. The overall median survival was 7.75 years (95% CI 7.19-8.31). After adjusting for years from symptom onset to diagnosis, age and sex, patients in the malignant diffuse and rigid akinetic-dominant clusters had greater risk of death than sleep and mood disorder-dominant cluster. Furthermore, patients in the malignant diffuse and rigid akinetic-dominant clusters had higher risk of being bedbound than cerebellar symptom-dominant cluster. Conclusions: The malignant diffuse and sleep and mood disorder-dominant were identified besides the two classical subtypes, parkinsonism, and cerebellar symptom-variant. Patients with rigid-akinetic motor profiles have a worse prognosis than cerebellar symptom-dominant profiles in general. Diffuse symptoms, especially postural instability, and cognitive alterations at diagnosis, indicate rapid functional loss and disease progression. The different profiles and prognoses might indicate varied underlying pathological mechanisms.


Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a complex disease that can affect both movement and non-movement functions of patients. However, we do not know much about how these different symptoms relate to how the patient's health might change over time. In this study, we looked at 193 MSA patients to learn more about if the patients can be distinguished into different subgroups at diagnosis and if the subgroups might be associated with their survival and ability to move in the future. We found four main subgroups of patients: group 1 characterized by the dysfunction of cerebellum (a part of the brain), group 2 characterized by sleep and mood problems, group 3 characterized by rigidity and slow movements, and group 4 with diffuse symptoms mentioned above. After tracking 95 patients for nearly 32 months, we found that those characterized by rigidity and slow movements, and those with diffuse symptoms had a higher chance of dying compared to those characterized by sleep and mood problems. Group 3 and 4 also had a higher chance of becoming unable to move out of bed. This suggests that patients with severe symptoms of rigidity and slowness at diagnosis tend to have a worse outlook than those without. And if multiple MSA symptoms are found when the patient is diagnosed, especially trouble with thinking, are also signs that the disease is getting worse quickly. By understanding these disease patterns, we can better tailor treatments and provide better support for people with MSA.


Subject(s)
Multiple System Atrophy , Humans , Multiple System Atrophy/diagnosis , Multiple System Atrophy/mortality , Multiple System Atrophy/classification , Male , Female , Middle Aged , Prognosis , Aged , Sleep Wake Disorders/etiology , Phenotype , Mood Disorders/diagnosis , Cluster Analysis
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