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Cut-off values of haemoglobin and clinical outcomes in incident peritoneal dialysis: the PDTAP study.
Xu, X, Yang, Z, Li, S, Pei, H, Zhao, J, Zhang, Y, Xiong, Z, Liao, Y, Li, Y, Lin, Q, et al
Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association. 2024;(2):251-263
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore the cut-off values of haemoglobin (Hb) on adverse clinical outcomes in incident peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients based on a national-level database. METHODS The observational cohort study was from the Peritoneal Dialysis Telemedicine-assisted Platform (PDTAP) dataset. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and modified MACE (MACE+). The secondary outcomes were the occurrences of hospitalization, first-episode peritonitis and permanent transfer to haemodialysis (HD). RESULTS A total of 2591 PD patients were enrolled between June 2016 and April 2019 and followed up until December 2020. Baseline and time-averaged Hb <100 g/l were associated with all-cause mortality, MACE, MACE+ and hospitalizations. After multivariable adjustments, only time-averaged Hb <100 g/l significantly predicted a higher risk for all-cause mortality {hazard ratio [HR] 1.83 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19-281], P = .006}, MACE [HR 1.99 (95% CI 1.16-3.40), P = .012] and MACE+ [HR 1.77 (95% CI 1.15-2.73), P = .010] in the total cohort. No associations between Hb and hospitalizations, transfer to HD and first-episode peritonitis were observed. Among patients with Hb ≥100 g/l at baseline, younger age, female, use of iron supplementation, lower values of serum albumin and renal Kt/V independently predicted the incidence of Hb <100 g/l during the follow-up. CONCLUSION This study provided real-world evidence on the cut-off value of Hb for predicting poorer outcomes through a nation-level prospective PD cohort.
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GPX4, ferroptosis, and diseases.
Zhang, W, Liu, Y, Liao, Y, Zhu, C, Zou, Z
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie. 2024;:116512
Abstract
GPX4 (Glutathione peroxidase 4) serves as a crucial intracellular regulatory factor, participating in various physiological processes and playing a significant role in maintaining the redox homeostasis within the body. Ferroptosis, a form of iron-dependent non-apoptotic cell death, has gained considerable attention in recent years due to its involvement in multiple pathological processes. GPX4 is closely associated with ferroptosis and functions as the primary inhibitor of this process. Together, GPX4 and ferroptosis contribute to the pathophysiology of several diseases, including sepsis, nervous system diseases, ischemia reperfusion injury, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This review comprehensively explores the regulatory roles and impacts of GPX4 and ferroptosis in the development and progression of these diseases, with the aim of providing insights for identifying potential therapeutic strategies in the future.
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Identification of novel biomarkers for frailty diagnosis via serum amino acids metabolomic analysis using UPLC-MS/MS.
Zhou, M, Sun, W, Chu, J, Liao, Y, Xu, P, Chen, X, Li, M
Proteomics. Clinical applications. 2024;:e2300035
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was aimed to analyze serum amino acid metabolite profiles in frailty patients, gain a better understanding of the metabolic mechanisms in frailty, and assess the diagnostic value of metabolomics-based biomarkers of frailty. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN This study utilized the ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to examine amino acids associated with frailty. Additionally, we employed multivariate statistical methods, metabolomic data analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and pathway enrichment analysis. RESULTS Among the assayed amino acid metabolites, we identified biomarkers for frailty. ROC curve analysis for frailty diagnosis based on the modified Fried's frailty index showed that the areas under ROC curve of tryptophan, phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and combination were 0.775, 0.679, 0.667, and 0.807, respectively. ROC curve analysis for frailty diagnosis based on Frail Scale showed that the areas under ROC curve of cystine, phenylalanine, and combination of amino acids (cystine, L-Glutamine, citrulline, tyrosine, kynurenine, phenylalanine, glutamin acid) were 0.834, 0.708, and 0.854 respectively. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In this study, we explored the serum amino acid metabolite profiles in frailty patients. These present metabolic analyses may provide valuable information on the potential biomarkers and the possible pathogenic mechanisms of frailty. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Frailty is a clinical syndrome, as a consequence it is challenging to identify at early course of the disease, even based on the existing frailty scales. Early diagnosis and appropriate patient management are the key to improve the survival and limit disabilities in frailty patients. Proven by the extensive laboratory and clinical studies on frailty, comprehensive analysis of metabolic levels in frail patients, identification of biomarkers and study of pathogenic pathways of metabolites contribute to the prediction and early diagnosis of frailty. In this study, we explored the serum amino acid metabolite profiles in frailty patients. These present metabolic analyses may provide valuable information on the potential biomarkers and the possible pathogenic mechanisms of frailty.
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Application of Calcium Sulfate Whiskers to Cement-Based Materials: A Review.
Liu, G, Liao, Y, Sha, X, Liu, G, Zhang, Y, Guo, R, Yue, Y
Materials (Basel, Switzerland). 2024;(5)
Abstract
In recent years, significant attention has been paid to the use of calcium sulfate whiskers (CSWs) to enhance the performance of cement-based materials (CBM). This technology has attracted widespread interest from researchers because it enhances the performance and sustainability of CBM by modifying the crystal structure of calcium sulfate. This article summarizes the fundamental properties and preparation methods of calcium sulfate whisker materials as well as their applications in cement, potential advantages and disadvantages, and practical applications and prospects. The introduction of CSWs has been demonstrated to enhance the strength, durability, and crack resistance of CBM while also addressing concerns related to permeability and shrinkage. The application of this technology is expected to improve the quality and lifespan of buildings, reduce maintenance costs, and positively impact the environment. The use of CSWs in CBM represents a promising material innovation that offers lasting and sustainable advancement in the construction industry.
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Direct and indirect monitoring methods for nitrous oxide emissions in full-scale wastewater treatment plants: A critical review.
Shang, Z, Cai, C, Guo, Y, Huang, X, Peng, K, Guo, R, Wei, Z, Wu, C, Cheng, S, Liao, Y, et al
Journal of environmental management. 2024;:120842
Abstract
Mitigation of nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in full-scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) has become an irreversible trend to adapt the climate change. Monitoring of N2O emissions plays a fundamental role in understanding and mitigating N2O emissions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of direct and indirect N2O monitoring methods. The techniques, strengths, limitations, and applicable scenarios of various methods are discussed. We conclude that the floating chamber technique is suitable for capturing and interpreting the spatiotemporal variability of real-time N2O emissions, due to its long-term in-situ monitoring capability and high data acquisition frequency. The monitoring duration, location, and frequency should be emphasized to guarantee the accuracy and comparability of acquired data. Calculation by default emission factors (EFs) is efficient when there is a need for ambiguous historical N2O emission accounts of national-scale or regional-scale WWTPs. Using process-specific EFs is beneficial in promoting mitigation pathways that are primarily focused on low-emission process upgrades. Machine learning models exhibit exemplary performance in the prediction of N2O emissions. Integrating mechanistic models with machine learning models can improve their explanatory power and sharpen their predictive precision. The implementation of the synergy of nutrient removal and N2O mitigation strategies necessitates the calibration and validation of multi-path mechanistic models, supported by long-term continuous direct monitoring campaigns.
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Retinopathy is associated with impaired cognition in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
Liao, J, Wei, Q, He, Y, Liao, Y, Xiong, Z, Wang, Q, Ding, D, Huang, X, Xiong, Z, Wu, Y
Renal failure. 2023;(2):2258989
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Abstract
Objective: Previous studies have shown a relationship between retinopathy and cognition including population with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD) but data regarding peritoneal dialysis (PD) are limited. This study aims to investigate the relationship between retinopathy and cognitive impairment in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods: In this observational study, we recruited a total of 107 participants undergoing PD, consisting of 48 men and 59 women, ages ranging from 21 to 78 years. The study followed a cross-sectional design. Retinal microvascular characteristics, such as geometric changes in retinal vascular including tortuosity, fractal dimension (FD), and calibers, were assessed. Retinopathy (such as retinal hemorrhage or microaneurysms) was evaluated using digitized photographs. The Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS) was performed to assess global cognitive function. Results: The prevalence rates of retinal hemorrhage, microaneurysms, and retinopathy were 25%, 30%, and 43%, respectively. The mean arteriolar and venular calibers were 63.2 and 78.5 µm, respectively, and the corresponding mean tortuosity was 37.7 ± 3.6 and 37.2 ± 3.0 mm-1. The mean FD was 1.49. After adjusting for age, sex, education, mean arterial pressure, and Charlson index, a negative association was revealed between retinopathy and 3MS scores (regression coefficient: -3.71, 95% confidence interval: -7.09 to -0.33, p = 0.03). Conclusions: Retinopathy, a condition common in patients undergoing PD, was associated with global cognitive impairment. These findings highlight retinopathy, can serve as a valuable primary screening tool for assessing the risk of cognitive decline.
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Association of muscle wasting with mortality risk among adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies.
Zhou, HH, Liao, Y, Peng, Z, Liu, F, Wang, Q, Yang, W
Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle. 2023;(4):1596-1612
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Abstract
The relationship between muscle wasting and mortality risk in the general population remains unclear. Our study was conducted to examine and quantify the associations between muscle wasting and all-cause and cause-specific mortality risks. PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched until 22 March 2023 for main data sources and references of retrieved relevant articles. Prospective studies investigating the associations of muscle wasting with risks of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in the general population were eligible. A random-effect model was used to calculate the pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the lowest versus normal categories of muscle mass. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to investigate the potential sources of heterogeneities among studies. Dose-response analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between muscle mass and mortality risk. Forty-nine prospective studies were included in the meta-analysis. A total of 61 055 deaths were ascertained among 878 349 participants during the 2.5- to 32-year follow-up. Muscle wasting was associated with higher mortality risks of all causes (RR = 1.36, 95% CI, 1.28 to 1.44, I2 = 94.9%, 49 studies), cardiovascular disease (CVD) (RR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.58, I2 = 88.1%, 8 studies), cancer (RR = 1.14, 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.27, I2 = 38.7%, 3 studies) and respiratory disease (RR = 1.36, 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.67, I2 = 62.8%, 3 studies). Subgroup analyses revealed that muscle wasting, regardless of muscle strength, was significantly associated with a higher all-cause mortality risk. Meta-regression showed that risks of muscle wasting-related all-cause mortality (P = 0.06) and CVD mortality (P = 0.09) were lower in studies with longer follow-ups. An approximately inverse linear dose-response relationship was observed between mid-arm muscle circumference and all-cause mortality risk (P < 0.01 for non-linearity). Muscle wasting was associated with higher mortality risks of all causes, CVD, cancer and respiratory disease in the general population. Early detection and treatment for muscle wasting might be crucial for reducing mortality risk and promoting healthy longevity.
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Potential Ability of Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer.
Zhao, J, Liao, Y, Wei, C, Ma, Y, Wang, F, Chen, Y, Zhao, B, Ji, H, Wang, D, Tang, D
Clinical Medicine Insights. Oncology. 2023;:11795549231188225
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world, and its incidence rate and mortality are on the rise in many countries. In recent years, with the improvement of economic conditions, people's living habits have changed, including lack of physical activity, poor diet patterns and circadian rhythm disorder. These risk factors can change the colon environment and the composition of intestinal microbiota. This state is called intestinal imbalance, which increases the risk of cancer. Probiotics, a class of microorganisms that help maintain gut microbial homeostasis and alleviate dysbiosis, may help prevent inflammation and colorectal cancer. These probiotics inhibit or ameliorate the effects of dysbiosis through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), modulation of immunity, maintenance of the intestinal epithelial barrier, pro-apoptotic mechanisms, and other mechanisms. This review aims to explain the interaction between probiotics, the gut microenvironment and the gut microbiota, and summarize reports on the possibility of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.
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Advances in In Vitro Models of Neuromuscular Junction: Focusing on Organ-on-a-Chip, Organoids, and Biohybrid Robotics.
Leng, Y, Li, X, Zheng, F, Liu, H, Wang, C, Wang, X, Liao, Y, Liu, J, Meng, K, Yu, J, et al
Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.). 2023;(41):e2211059
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a peripheral synaptic connection between presynaptic motor neurons and postsynaptic skeletal muscle fibers that enables muscle contraction and voluntary motor movement. Many traumatic, neurodegenerative, and neuroimmunological diseases are classically believed to mainly affect either the neuronal or the muscle side of the NMJ, and treatment options are lacking. Recent advances in novel techniques have helped develop in vitro physiological and pathophysiological models of the NMJ as well as enable precise control and evaluation of its functions. This paper reviews the recent developments in in vitro NMJ models with 2D or 3D cultures, from organ-on-a-chip and organoids to biohybrid robotics. Related derivative techniques are introduced for functional analysis of the NMJ, such as the patch-clamp technique, microelectrode arrays, calcium imaging, and stimulus methods, particularly optogenetic-mediated light stimulation, microelectrode-mediated electrical stimulation, and biochemical stimulation. Finally, the applications of the in vitro NMJ models as disease models or for drug screening related to suitable neuromuscular diseases are summarized and their future development trends and challenges are discussed.
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Identification of potential new COVID-19 treatments via RWD-driven drug repurposing.
Liao, Y
Scientific reports. 2023;(1):14586
Abstract
By utilizing Optum Life Sciences Claims Data, we constructed Real World Data (RWD) cohorts comprising over 3 million patients and simulated a clinical trial observational study design to evaluate over 200 FDA-approved drugs with COVID-19 repurposing potential, and identified a dozen candidates exhibiting significant reduction in the odds of severe COVID-19 outcomes such as death, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospitalization and pneumonia. Notably, certain drug combinations demonstrated effects comparable to those of COVID-19 vaccines. Furthermore, our study revealed a novel finding: a quantitative linear relationship between COVID-19 outcomes and overall patient health risks. This discovery enabled a more precise estimation of drug efficacy using the risk adjustment. The top performing drugs identified include emtricitabine, tenofovir, folic acid, progesterone, estradiol, epinephrine, disulfiram, nitazoxanide and some drug combinations including aspirin-celecoxib.