J Res Med Sci
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In vitro models are common tools in nephrology research. However, their validity has rarely been scrutinized. ⋯ The findings of this study suggest that in vitro findings should be interpreted cautiously and if possible are substituted or supported by animal models that are more consistent and reliable. Furthermore, we underscore the importance of time-course evaluation of both case and control groups in gene expression studies to avoid misconceptions caused by gene expression noise or intrinsic rhythms.
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Whether early lumbar puncture (LP) and blood indicators are suitable as diagnostic criteria and helpful to treatment strategies for newborns remains to be solved. The study was to evaluate the value of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at the first LP and blood indicators at the similar time in the early diagnosis and the drug therapy of neonatal bacterial meningitis. ⋯ LP was irreplaceable predictor of bacterial meningitis, and comprehensive analysis of CSF indicators can predict the offending organism, which enables refinement of therapy.
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One-anastomosis/mini-gastric bypass (OAGB/MGB), as a popular bariatric surgery method, has many advantages; however, the biliopancreatic limb length (BPL) in this surgery is under debate. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of BPL on weight-loss outcome after OAGB/MGB. ⋯ Tailoring BPL in OAGB/MGB based on patient's age and preoperative BMI seems to have acceptable results.
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Pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) may be indicated by lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), serving as an inflammatory biomarker. However, the general dietary predictors of Lp-PLA2 have not been investigated so far. The aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between the serum levels of Lp-PLA2 and dietary patterns in adults with cardiovascular risk factors. ⋯ It can be concluded that the Western dietary pattern is associated with higher Lp-PLA2 levels. We recommend that adults eat less carbonated drinks, fast foods, salty snacks, mayonnaise, and organ meat to counteract increased serum Lp-PLA2 levels, which are directly associated with vascular inflammation and CVDs.
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Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common primary valvular disease. Currently, there is no pharmacological approach for the medical management of AS. We investigated the effect of osteoporosis therapy with alendronate on hemodynamic progression in patients concurrently affected by AS and osteoporosis. ⋯ Treatment with alendronate in patients with AS and concurrent osteoporosis slows down the progression of stenosis and improves their prognosis. This study could open a new pathway for the treatment of AS. Further studies, particularly randomized controlled clinical trial, should be done for providing more evidence.