Association of Triglyceride-Glucose Index with the Risk of Hyperhomocysteinemia Among Chinese Male Bus Drivers: A Longitudinal Study

Background

Insulin resistance (IR) and hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) are significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). As an important marker for IR, Triglyceride-Glucose (TyG) index maybe a significant predictor for HHcy progression, reflecting cardiovascular risk. However, the relationship between TyG index and HHcy has been unknown, especially for the high-risk occupation group of male bus drivers. This longitudinal study was initially conducted to explore the outcome of TyG index in predicting HHcy among male bus drivers.

Methods

In total, 1018 Chinese male bus drivers with Hcy data and regular follow-up from 2017 to 2021 were screened, and 523 non-HHcy subjects at baseline were included in the longitudinal cohort. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) was performed to investigate the possible non-linear relationship between TyG index and the progression of HHcy. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to explore the association between TyG index and developing HHcy via assessing the value of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

After the median follow up time of 2.12 years, approximately 27.7% of male bus drivers (mean age: 48.1 years) was identified as new incidents HHcy. Multivariate logistic regression found that the higher level of TyG was associated with an increased risk of new onset HHcy (OR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.11-1.94); and the association seemed to be strong among male bus drivers with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P for interaction < 0.05).

Conclusion

As a higher risk occupation group for HHcy, male bus drivers should cause much more attentions from policy makers, employers, and health professionals in China. Identifying male bus drivers with HHcy is of significance at an earlier stage in the primary care setting. Being a significant predictive factor for HHcy, TyG index could be used to monitor and prevent Chinese male bus drivers from HHcy, especially for individuals with elevated LDL-C.

Identification of Gentian-Related Species Based on Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy (2D-COS) Combined with Residual Neural Network (ResNet)

Gentian is a traditional Chinese herb with heat-clearing, damp-drying, inflammation-alleviating and digestion-promoting effects, which is widely used in clinical practice. However, there are many species of gentian. According to the pharmacopoeia, Gentiana manshurica Kitag, Gentiana scabra Bge, Gentiana triflora Pall and Gentianarigescens Franch are included. Therefore, accurately identifying the species of gentian is important in clinical use. In recent years, with the advantages of low cost, convenience, fast analysis and high sensitivity, infrared spectroscopy (IR) has been extensively used in herbal identification. Unlike one-dimensional spectroscopy, a two-dimensional correlation spectrum (2D-COS) can improve the resolution of the spectrum and better highlight the details that are difficult to detect. In addition, the residual neural network (ResNet) is an important breakthrough in convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for significant advantages related to image recognition. Herein, we propose a new method for identifying gentian-related species using 2D-COS combined with ResNet. A total of 173 gentian samples from seven different species are collected in this study. In order to eliminate a large amount of redundant information and improve the efficiency of machine learning, the extracted feature band method was used to optimize the model. Four feature bands were selected from the infrared spectrum, namely 3500-3000 cm^-1, 3000-2750 cm^-1, 1750-1100 cm^-1 and 1100-400 cm^-1, respectively. The one-dimensional spectral data were converted into synchronous 2D-COS images, asynchronous 2D-COS images, and integrative 2D-COS images using Matlab (R2022a). The identification strategy for these three 2D-COS images was based on ResNet, which analyzes 2D-COS images based on single feature bands and full bands as well as fused feature bands. According to the results, (1) compared with the other two 2D-COS images, synchronous 2D-COS images are more suitable for the ResNet model, and (2) after extracting a single feature band 1750-1100 cm^-1 to optimize ResNet, the model has the best convergence performance, the accuracy of training, test and external validation is 1 and the loss value is only 0.155. In summary, 2D-COS combined with ResNet is an effective and accurate method to identify gentian-related species.

Vibrational Spectroscopy of Phytochromes

Phytochromes are biological photoswitches that translate light into physiological functions. Spectroscopic techniques are essential tools for molecular research into these photoreceptors. This review is directed at summarizing how resonance Raman and IR spectroscopy contributed to an understanding of the structure, dynamics, and reaction mechanism of phytochromes, outlining the substantial experimental and theoretical challenges and describing the strategies to master them. It is shown that the potential of the various vibrational spectroscopic techniques can be most efficiently exploited using integral approaches via a combination of theoretical methods as well as other experimental techniques.

In Vitro Generated Equine Hepatic-Like Progenitor Cells as a Novel Potent Cell Pool for Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) Treatment

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is recognized as one of the leading cause of health threatening in veterinary medicine worldwide. Recently, PTP1B inhibition has been proposed as an interesting strategy for liver insulin resistance reversion in both equines and humans, however as being a multifactorial disease, proper management of EMS horses further necessities additional interventional approaches aiming at repairing and restoring liver functions. In this study, we hypothesized that in vitro induction of Eq_ASCs hepatogenic differentiation will generate a specialized liver progenitor-like cell population exhibiting similar phenotypic characteristics and regenerative potential as native hepatic progenitor cells. Our obtained data demonstrated that Eq_ASCs-derived liver progenitor cells (Eq_HPCs) displayed typical flattened polygonal morphology with packed fragmented mitochondrial net, lowered mesenchymal CD105 and CD90 surface markers expression, and significant high expression levels of specific hepatic lineage genes including PECAM-1, ALB, AFP and HNF4A. therewith, generated Eq_HPCs exhibited potentiated stemness and pluripotency markers expression (NANOG, SOX-2 and OCT-4). Hence, in vitro generation of hepatic progenitor-like cells retaining high differentiation capacity represents a promising new approach for the establishment of cell-based targeted therapies for the restoration of proper liver functions in EMS affected horses.

Nanocomposites as Substituent of Cement: Structure and Mechanical Properties

To date, the scientific research in the field of recycling of construction and demolition wastes was focused on the production of concrete, cements, and bricks. The attainment of these products was limited to the addition of suitable binder contents, such as lime or cement, compaction, and possibly heat treatment, without a concrete recycling method. In this paper, new cement materials consisting of 2.5 weight% composite and originating from construction and demolition waste powder, were prepared and investigated in view of applications in the construction industry as a substituent of cement. The materials with recycled powder from construction and demolition wastes were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The XRD data indicate vitroceramic structures with varied crystalline phases. The NMR relaxometry data show four reservoirs of water associated with bounded water and with three types of pores in the composite construction material. The micro-Vickers hardness was measured to reflect the influence of composite nature in the local mechanical properties of the composite-cement for the mixture with Portland cement and (EC) expired cement.

Optimization of the Electrochemical Method of Obtaining Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs)

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were prepared using the electrolytic exfoliation method on graphite foil in an ammonium sulfate solution. A series of experiments were conducted in order to optimize the production of the flakes by varying the pH of the solution, applied voltage and current, duration of electrolysis, temperature in the electrolytic system, and type and duration of the ultrasound interaction. The quality of the produced graphene nanoplatelets was analyzed using X-ray diffraction, Raman and IR spectroscopy, and TEM.

Should cognitive restructuring precede imagery rescripting? An experimental pilot study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is a promising therapeutic technique used in treatment for a variety of psychiatric disorders. During an ImRs session, an aversive disorder-related memory, is activated in imagination and rescripted to a more positive outcome. It has been shown to successfully weaken the negative cognitive meaning, so-called encapsulated beliefs of the targeted aversive memory. In many studies, ImRs is preceded by a cognitive restructuring (CR) technique focused on the encapsulated belief of the target memory. It is not clear whether adding such a CR technique is necessary or that ImRs as standalone technique can achieve comparable effects.

METHODS

Students with mild psychological distress (N = 53) were randomized over one session of cognitive restructuring plus imagery rescripting (CR + ImRs), a therapist attention placebo plus imagery rescripting (PLA + ImRs) and a double therapist attention placebo (PLA + PLA). Believability of the idiosyncratic encapsulated belief (primary outcome) and quality (vividness, distress and emotional connotation: secondary outcome) of the target memory were assessed at pre, post and at 1-week follow-up.

RESULTS

Results indicate that both, CR + ImRs and PLA + ImRs, reduced the believability of the encapsulated beliefs in greater extent than PLA + PLA. No differences appeared between the two ImRs conditions. For the secondary outcomes no differences between the three conditions were found.

LIMITATIONS

This study should be seen as a pilot study, moreover a non-clinical sample was used.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that a CR technique preceding ImRs is redundant. However, this study needs replication in a larger sample.

Sesamin Attenuates Obesity-Associated Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in High-Fat and High-Fructose Diet-Fed Mice

This study explored the effects of sesamin on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). High-fat and high-fructose diet-fed mice supplemented with or without sesamin. The results suggested that sesamin-treated mice lost body weight and fat tissue weight, had lower levels of serum metabolic parameters, and insulin resistance was mitigated. Histological examinations showed that sesamin treatment mitigated the progression of hepatic steatosis, and inflammation. In addition, sesamin enhanced hepatic antioxidant capacity, and decreased the activations of hepatic c-jun N-terminal kinase, inhibitor of kappa B kinase α, and insulin receptor substrate 1 as well as hepatic interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels. Further experiments indicated that sesamin treatment downregulated GRP78 and phospho-inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) expression, and upregulated x-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) expression in hepatic tissue. The aforementioned results suggest that sesamin alleviates obesity-associated NASH, which might be linked to the effect of sesamin on the regulation of the hepatic endoplasmic reticulum stress-IRE1/XBP1 pathway. Thus, sesamin may be a good food functional ingredient in the treatment of obesity-associated NASH.

Effect of resistance vs. aerobic exercise in pre-diabetes: an RCT

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the different impacts of aerobic and resistance exercise intervention on pre-diabetes and its possible influencing factor (obesity) to identify which exercise intervention mode was better for pre-diabetes to control their blood glucose levels.

METHODS

Single-blind randomized controlled trial. Participants were recruited from Southwest Hospital between February 2016 and May 2017 and randomly divided into three groups using stratified randomization: aerobic exercise (A), resistance exercise (R), and control (C). The effects of each group were analyzed, and the relationship with obesity was investigated following a 12-week intervention.

RESULTS

Eighty participants were enrolled (9 were lost, and 1 was excluded). Finally, 26 participants were included in group A, 23 in group R, and 21 in group C. In groups A and R, FPG, OGTT 2-h PG, and HOMA2-IR decreased by 6.17% (P = 0.001) and 4.81% (P = 0.019), 20.39% (P < 0.001) and 16.50% (P < 0.001), and 8.34% (P = 0.026) and 18.31% (P = 0.001, superior to that in group A), respectively (all P < 0.001 compared with group C, with no significant differences between groups A and R). The ratio of reversal to euglycemia was 69.2% (P = 0.003 compared with group C) in group A and 43.5% (P = 0.213 compared with group C) in group R. The decreased ratio of GSP in group R was greater (65.2%, P = 0.008 compared with group C) compared with group A (38.5%, P = 0.355 compared with group C). Decreases in the parameters BMI (3.1 ± 3.2% P < 0.001, moderately positive correlation with the decreased FPG level, r = 0.498, P = 0.010, two-tailed) and waist circumference (3.1 ± 2.7% P < 0.001) were noted in group A, but no significant correlations were noted between other indicators in group R.

CONCLUSIONS

Both resistance and aerobic exercise can control and reverse IGR. Compared with aerobic exercise, resistance exercise may be superior in terms of GSP and IR improvement. Aerobic exercise decreases blood glucose levels through weight loss. However, the effect of resistance exercise might not be mediated via weight loss and obesity control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000038304. Registered on September 17, 2020.

Fungi That Promote Plant Growth in the Rhizosphere Boost Crop Growth

The fungi species dwelling in the rhizosphere of crop plants, revealing functions that endeavor sustainability of the plants, are commonly referred to as 'plant-growth-promoting fungi' (PGPF). They are biotic inducers that provide benefits and carry out important functions in agricultural sustainability. The problem encountered in the agricultural system nowadays is how to meet population demand based on crop yield and protection without putting the environment and human and animal health at risk based on crop production. PGPF including Trichoderma spp., Gliocladium virens, Penicillium digitatum, Aspergillus flavus, Actinomucor elegans, Podospora bulbillosa, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, etc., have proven their ecofriendly nature to ameliorate the production of crops by improving the growth of the shoots and roots of crop plants, the germination of seeds, the production of chlorophyll for photosynthesis, and the abundant production of crops. PGPF's potential mode of action is as follows: the mineralization of the major and minor elements required to support plants' growth and productivity. In addition, PGPF produce phytohormones, induced resistance, and defense-related enzymes to inhibit or eradicate the invasion of pathogenic microbes, in other words, to help the plants while encountering stress. This review portrays the potential of PGPF as an effective bioagent to facilitate and promote crop production, plant growth, resistance to disease invasion, and various abiotic stresses.

Synthesis, crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of bis-[4-(2-amino-eth-yl)morpholine-κ2 N,N']di-aqua-nickel(II) dichloride

The title coordination compound, [Ni(C6H14N2O)2(H2O)2]Cl2, was synthesized by mixing 4-(2-amino-eth-yl)morpholine and nickel chloride in double-distilled water. The asymmetric unit comprises one half of an NiII cation (located on an inversion centre), one 4-(2-amino-eth-yl)morpholine ligand, one coordinated water mol-ecule and one chloride ion outside the metal coordination sphere. The nickel ion is in a octa-hedral environment of the N4O2 type, coordinating four N atoms from two 4-(2-amino-eth-yl)morpholine ligands and two trans-located O atoms from two water mol-ecules. The morpholine ligand was found disordered over two positions with a site occupancy ratio of 0.708 (8):0.292 (8). The crystal structure is consolidated by N-H⋯Cl, N-H⋯O, C-H⋯Cl and C-H⋯O hydrogen bonds. Hirshfeld surface analysis confirms that van der Waals inter-actions are prevalent in the crystal packing of the synthesized complex.

Crystal structure of 2-(morpholino)ethyl-ammonium picrate monohydrate

The title compound, C6H15N2O+·C6H2N3O7 -·H2O, was synthesized via slow evaporation of an aqueous solution of picric acid with the substituted morpholine base and crystallized with one cation (C6H15N2O)+, one anion (C6H2N3O7)- and a water mol-ecule in the asymmetric unit. The morpholine ring in the cation adopts a chair conformation. The structure is stabilized by C-H⋯O, O-H⋯O, O-H⋯N and N-H⋯O hydrogen-bonding inter-actions and π-π stacking. The inter-molecular inter-actions of the synthesized compound were qu-anti-fied by Hirshfeld surface analysis.

Role of Insulin Resistance in Patients of Acne Vulgaris and Hirsutism in the Western Part of India- A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Despite being common and easy to treat conditions, acne and hirsutism may have a striking consequence on one's perception of self. Though understanding the pathogenesis of acne and hirsutism has undergone a major paradigm shift, one of them being insulin resistance (IR), extensive research is still underway. The purpose of the study is to establish causal relationship linking IR with acne vulgaris and hirsutism, as well as to assess severity of the two with increasing IR.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the dermatology department. Patient's detailed clinical history and necessary parameters like height, weight, body mass index (BMI), etc., were recorded in predefined proforma, noting signs and symptoms of underlying IR, along with acne severity calculated by global acne grading system (GAGS) and hirsutism severity by modified Ferriman Gallwey score (mFG), then analyzing using Pearson's correlation test to establish correlation between IR and acne with/without hirsutism and hirsutism alone.

Results

A total of 349 patients included in our study were divided into three groups, (i) Acne-only (N = 308) group showed statistically significant correlation of IR with acne severity (P < 0.0001) and recurrence (P < 0.0001). (ii) In hirsutism-only (N = 24) group, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was strongly associated with modified Ferriman-Gallwey score and recurrence suggesting raised insulin resistance with increased severity of hirsutism (P < 0.0001) and recurrence (P < 0.007). (iii) In acne + hirsutism (N = 17) group, raised BMI was found to be positively associated with IR but not with severity of both conditions.

Conclusion

IR has emerged as an important contributory, if not, causative event in pathogenesis of severe, resistant acne, and hirsutism. These conditions have great deal of impact on the psychological health of those affected necessitating different approach to manage such cases.

Physical Mechanism of Spectra in Carbon Nanobelts under Quantum Size Effect

Since the successful synthesis of [6,6]carbon nanobelt (CNB), [8,8]CNB and [12,12]CNB have been synthesized successively. CNBs with different sizes ([2N,2N]CNB; N = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8) have quantum size effects and exhibit completely different optical properties. In this work, the linear and nonlinear optical properties and spectral changes of [2N,2N]CNB are studied based on density functional theory (DFT). The molecular volume, pore volume, and stability of [2N,2N]CNB are investigated. The electron transition mechanism of the one-photon absorption (OPA) and two-photon absorption (TPA) spectra of [2N,2N]CNB is explained, and the extrapolation formula between the wavelength of the absorption peak and the absorption coefficient (ε) and size is given. The infrared (IR) and Raman spectra of [2N,2N]CNB are calculated, and the vibrational modes of characteristic peaks are provided. Finally, the nonlinear optical properties of [2N,2N]CNB are studied, which reflect the anisotropy of molecular polarization. The extrapolation formulas for the polarizability (α) and second hyperpolarizability (γ) of [2N,2N]CNB under different external fields are given. The extrapolation formulas given in this work will help to predict the linear and nonlinear optical properties of arbitrary [2N,2N]CNB beyond computational power, laying the foundation for the practical application of [2N,2N]CNB's theoretical basis.

A prospective cross-sectional study assessing teaching of interventional radiology across 20 Australian medical schools, endorsed by the Australian Medical Students Association

BACKGROUND

Existing literature from around the world has shown that teaching of Interventional Radiology (IR) to medical students remains suboptimal. Despite calls for improvement at a "grass-roots" level, most IRs find that junior doctors have limited or no knowledge of IR, and thus reduced awareness of potential IR treatments for their patients or contemplating IR as a future career. The aim of this study was to survey current medical students to assess perception of whether a wider variety of medical schools are integrating IR into their curriculum, from universities all across Australia. This was a prospective cross-sectional study of members of the Australian Medical Students Association (AMSA) from across Australia. Students were given a 14-question survey of current university teaching and students' knowledge of the discipline of IR. The primary outcome was perception of current teaching and knowledge of IR. Secondary outcomes include awareness of technical, clinical, and other duties of IRs.

RESULTS

Surveys were sent in a newsletter and posted on the AMSA Facebook page to their members. 82 responses were received via students from 20 out of 23 Australian medical schools. 61% of students described poor or no knowledge of IR. Teaching of IR was significantly worse than diagnostic radiology (p < 0.001), only 12% suggested that current IR teaching was adequate, and 99% suggested that IR teaching could be improved. Only 11% of students would consider a career in IR.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical student perception of exposure to IR is poor compared to diagnostic radiology. Better awareness may lead to improved referral patterns for patients and more career interest in IR.

Effect of β-sitosterol on insulin resistance & protein expression of insulin signalling molecules in quadriceps muscle of high fat diet-induced type-2 diabetic rats

Changes in life style, such as high-calorie diet intake and lack of exercise, have increased the global prevalence of obesity and diabetes. The major pathophysiological event contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus is the target tissues to insulin action. Currently available drugs are unsuccessful for the treatment of type 2 diabetes due to their unwanted side effects. Hence, search drugs, from plant sources. β-sitosterol is plant sterols with structurally almost like that of cholesterol. It is widely present in various medicinal plants. It has been reported to elicit multitude of bioactivities including anti-lipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic activity. However, specific effect of β-sitosterol on insulin signalling molecules of quadriceps muscle remains unclear. Hence, the study aimed to assess the beneficial role of β-sitosterol on the expression of insulin signalling molecules in quadriceps muscle of high fat diet and sucrose-induced type-2 diabetic rats. The oral effective dose of β-sitosterol (25 mg/kg body weight) was given once each day until the end of the study (30 days post‑induction of diabetes) to HFD- fed diabetic rats. At the end of the experimental period, fasting blood sugar (FBG), oral glucose (OGTT) and insulin tolerances (IT), Tissue glycogen, Serum insulin, Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI), as well as the levels of insulin signalling molecules like insulin receptor (IR), glucose transporter subtype 4 (GLUT4) proteins and glycogen concentration within the quadriceps muscle were assessed. A diabetic rat indicates impaired glucose and insulin tolerances and insulin signalling molecules (IR and GLUT4) proteins and glycogen concentration. Serum insulin, were found to be increased in diabetic rats. The treatment with β-sitosterol normalized the altered levels of blood glucose, serum insulin, and IR and GLUT4 protein levels. Thus, we concluded that β-sitosterol enhances glycemic control through activation of IR and GLUT4 in the quadriceps muscle of high fat diet and sucrose‑induced type2 diabetic rats.

Nanoscale Printing of Indium-Tin-Oxide by Femtosecond Laser Pulses

For constructing optical and electrical micro-devices, the deposition/printing of materials with sub-1 μm precision and size (cross-section) is required. Crystalline c-ITO (indium tin oxide) nanostructures were patterned on glass with sufficient precision to form 20-50 nm gaps between individual disks or lines of ∼250 nm diameter or width. The absorbed energy density [J/cm3] followed a second-order dependence on pulse energy. This facilitated high-resolution and precise nanoscale laser-writing at a laser wavelength of 515 nm. Patterns for optical elements such as circular gratings and micro-disks were laser-printed using ITO as a resist. Unexposed amorphous a-ITO was chemically removed in aqueous 1% vol. HF solution. This use of a-ITO as a solid resist holds promise for metamaterial and micro-optical applications.

Structural, Optical, and Magnetic Studies of the Metallic Lead Effect on MnO2-Pb-PbO2 Vitroceramics

MnO₂-lead materials have attracted attention in their applications as electrodes. This work reports a detailed spectroscopic study of the compositional variation of MnO₂-xLead vitroceramic materials with varied Pb contents. The concentration variation of lead and manganese ions issystematically characterized throughthe analysis of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy.The MnO₂-xLead samples consist of a vitroceramic structure with Pb, PbO, PbO₂,and Mn₃O₄ crystalline phases. The introduction of higher Pb content in the host vitroceramic reveals the [PbO₆]→[PbO_n] conversion, where n = 3, 4, and the formation of distorted [MnO₆] octahedral units. The UV-Vis data of the samples possess the intense bands between 300 and 500 nm, which are due to the presence of divalent lead ions (320 nm) and divalent and trivalent manganese ions (420 and 490 nm, respectively) in the structure of glass ceramics. The EPR data show resonance lines located around g ~ 8 and 4.3, and a sextet hyperfine structure at g ~ 2, which isascribed to the Mn⁺³ and Mn⁺² ions.

Insulin-like Growth Factor-2 (IGF-2) in Fibrosis

The insulin family consists of insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2), their receptors (IR, IGF-1R and IGF-2R), and their binding proteins. All three ligands are involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, protein synthesis and metabolism due to their homologous sequences and structural similarities. Insulin-like growth factor 2, a member of the insulin family, plays an important role in embryonic development, metabolic disorders, and tumorigenesis by combining with three receptors with different degrees of affinity. The main pathological feature of various fibrotic diseases is the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) after tissue and organ damage, which eventually results in organic dysfunction because scar formation replaces tissue parenchyma. As a mitogenic factor, IGF-2 is overexpressed in many fibrotic diseases. It can promote the proliferation of fibroblasts significantly, as well as the production of ECM in a time- and dose-dependent manner. This review aims to describe the expression changes and fibrosis-promoting effects of IGF-2 in the skin, oral cavity, heart, lung, liver, and kidney fibrotic tissues.

Pyroptosis and Insulin Resistance in Metabolic Organs

Skeletal muscle serves as the optimal effective organ to balance glucose homeostasis, but insulin resistance (IR) in skeletal muscle breaks this balance by impeding glucose uptake and causes metabolic disorders. IR in skeletal muscle is caused by multiple factors, and it has been reported that systemic low-grade inflammation is related to skeletal muscle IR, though its molecular mechanisms need to be ulteriorly studied. Pyroptosis is a novel inflammatory-mediated type of cell death. It has recently been reported that pyroptosis is associated with a decline in insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. The appropriate occurrence of pyroptosis positively eliminates pathogenic factors, whereas its excessive activation may aggravate inflammatory responses and expedite disease progression. The relationship between pyroptosis and IR in skeletal muscle and its underlined mechanism need to be further illustrated. The role of pyroptosis during the process of IR alleviation induced by non-drug interventions, such as exercise, also needs to be clarified. In this paper, we review and describe the molecular mechanisms of pyroptosis and further comb the roles of its relevant key factors in skeletal muscle IR, aiming to propose a novel theoretical basis for the relationship between pyroptosis and muscle IR and provide new research targets for the improvement of IR-related diseases.

The Actual Role of Iterative Reconstruction Algorithm Methods in Several Saudi Hospitals As A Tool For Radiation Dose Minimization of Ct Scan Examinations

Background

Iterative reconstruction algorithm (IR) techniques were developed to maintain a lower radiation dose for patients as much as possible while achieving the required image quality and medical benefits. The main purpose of the current research was to assess the level and usage extent of IR techniques in computed tomographic (CT) scan exams. Also, the obligation of practitioners in several hospitals in Saudi Arabia to implement IR in CT exams was assessed.

Material and Methodology

The recent research was based on two studies: data collection and a survey study. Data on the CT scan examinations were retrospectively collected from CT scanners. The survey was conducted using a questionnaire to evaluate radiographers’ and radiologists’ perceptions about IR and their practices with IR techniques. The statistical analysis results were performed to measure the usage strength level of IR methods.

Results and Discussions

The IR strength level of 50% was selected for nearly 80% of different CT examinations and patients of different ages and weights. About 46% of the participants had not learned about IR methods during their college studies, and 54% had not received formal training in applying IR techniques. Only 32% of the participants had adequate experience with IR. Half of the participants were not involved in the updating process of the CT protocol.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the majority of radiographer and radiologist at four different hospitals in Saudi Arabia have no explicit or understandable knowledge of selecting IR strength levels during the CT examination of patients. There is a need for more training in IR applications for both radiologists and radiographers. Training sessions were suggested to support radiographers and radiologists to efficiently utilize IR techniques to optimize image quality. Further studies are required to adjust CT exam protocols effectively to utilize the IR technique.

Apolipoprotein A4 Restricts Diet-induced Hepatic Steatosis via SREBF1-mediated Lipogenesis and Enhances IRS-PI3K-Akt Signaling

SCOPE

Hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance (IR) are risk factors for many metabolic syndromes such as NAFLD and T2DM. ApoA4 improves glucose hemostasis by increasing glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and glucose uptake via PI3K-Akt activation in adipocytes. However, whether ApoA4 has an effect on hepatic steatosis or IR remains unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

ApoA4-knockout (KO) aggravates diet-induced obesity, hepatic steatosis and IR in mice promoted by increased hepatic lipogenesis gene expression based on RNA-seq data. Conversely, liver-specific overexpression of ApoA4 via AAV-ApoA4 transduction reverses the effect in ApoA4-KO mice, accompanied by suppressed hepatic lipogenesis, increased lipolysis, and fatty acid oxidation. Short-term treatment with recombinant ApoA4 protein improves glucose clearance and liver insulin sensitivity, and reduces hepatic lipogenesis gene expression in the absence of insulin. Moreover, in primary hepatocytes and a hepatic cell line, ApoA4 improves hepatic glucose uptake via IRS-PI3K-Akt signaling and decreases fat deposition and hepatic lipogenesis gene expression by inhibiting SREBF1 activity.

CONCLUSION

ApoA4 restricts hepatic steatosis by inhibiting SREBF1-mediated lipogenesis and improves insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake via IRS-PI3K-Akt signaling in the liver. These findings indicate that ApoA4 may serve as a therapeutic target for obesity-associated NAFLD. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Fluorides (BaF2, MgF2, AlF3) on Structural and Luminescent Properties of Er3+-Doped Gallo-Germanate Glass

The effect of BaF2, MgF2, and AlF3 on the structural and luminescent properties of gallo-germanate glass (BGG) doped with erbium ions was investigated. A detailed analysis of infrared and Raman spectra shows that the local environment of erbium ions in the glass was influenced mainly by [GeO]4 and [GeO]6 units. Moreover, the highest number of non-bridging oxygens was found in the network of the BGG glass modified by MgF2. The 27Al MAS NMR spectrum of BGG glass with AlF3 suggests the presence of aluminum in tetra-, penta-, and octahedral coordination geometry. Therefore, the probability of the 4I13/2→4I15/2 transition of Er3+ ions increases in the BGG + MgF2 glass system. On the other hand, the luminescence spectra showed that the fluoride modifiers lead to an enhancement in the emission of each analyzed transition when different excitation sources are employed (808 nm and 980 nm). The analysis of energy transfer mechanisms shows that the fluoride compounds promote the emission intensity in different channels. These results represent a strong base for designing glasses with unique luminescent properties.

CMV infection combined with acute GVHD associated with poor CD8+ T-cell immune reconstitution and poor prognosis post-HLA-matched allo-HSCT

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) are two major complications that contribute to a poor prognosis after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Superior early immune reconstitution (IR) is associated with improved survival after HSCT. However, when all three factors, CMV infection, aGVHD, and IR, are concomitantly considered, the effects of the triple events on HSCT are still unknown and should be studied further. Thus we enrolled 185 patients who were diagnosed as hematological malignancies and treated with HLA-matched sibling transplantation (MST) between January 2010 and December 2014, of whom 83 were positive for CMV infection and 82 had aGVHD. Results showed that patients with both aGVHD and CMV infection had significantly higher non-relapse mortality (NRM), lower overall survival (OS), and delayed CD8+ T-cell IR. Multivariate analyses showed that both aGVHD combined with CMV infection and delayed CD8+ T-cell IR were independent risk factors for prognosis post-MST. Recurrent CMV infections are associated with poor CD8+ T-cell reconstitution. However, superior IR could protect against the negative effects of aGVHD and CMV infection on the transplant outcomes.

Cerium metal oxidation studied by IR reflection-absorption and Raman scattering spectroscopies

Oxidation of cerium metal is a complex process which is strongly affected by the presence of water vapor in the oxidative atmosphere. Here, we explore, by means of infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS) and Raman scattering spectroscopies, thin oxide films, formed on cerium metal during oxidation, under dry vs ambient (humid) air conditions (∼0.2% and ∼50% relative humidities, respectively) and compare them with a thin film of CeO₂deposited on a Si substrate. Complementary analysis of the thin films using x-ray diffraction and focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy enables the correlation between their structure and spectroscopic characterizations. The initial oxidation of cerium metal results in the formation of highly sub-stoichiometric CeO_2-x. Under dry air conditions, a major fraction of that oxide reacts with oxygen to form CeO_∼2, which is spectroscopically detected by Raman scatteringF_2gsymmetry mode and by IRAASF_1usymmetry mode, splitted into doubly-degenerate transverse optic and mono-degenerate longitudinally optic (LO) modes. In contrast, under ambient (humid) conditions, the oxide formed is more heterogenous, as the reaction of CeO_2-xdiverges towards the dominant formation of Ce(OH)₃. Prior to the spectral emergence of Ce(OH)₃, hydrogen ions incorporate into the highly sub-stoichiometric oxide, as manifested by Ce-H local vibrational mode detected in the Raman spectrum. The spectroscopic response of the thin oxide layer thus formed is more complex; particularly noted is the absence of the LO mode. It is attributed to the high density of microstructural and compositional defects in the oxide layer, which results in a heterogenous dielectric nature of the thin film, far from being representable by a single phase of CeO_∼2.