Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation - Volume 87, issue 3

Authors: Lin, Haiyan | Gao, Da | Wang, Shengjie | Wang, Zicheng | Guan, Haiwang | Wang, Yanwei | Zhou, Ying

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are the emerging informative RNAs, involved in cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis (AS). Endothelial injury is the initial qualitative change of AS. Thus, the objective of this study was to confirm the dysregulation and mechanism of circ_0000231 in cell model of AS at early stage in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). METHODS: The expression of circ_0000231, miR-590-5p and programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) was detected using real-time quantitative PCR and western blot. Cell injury was measured with MTT, flow cytometry, caspase-3 activity assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). …The interaction among circ_0000231, miR-590-5p and PDCD4 was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and pull-down assays. RESULTS: Stress ox-LDL decreased cell viability, and increased apoptosis rate and caspase-3 activity in HUVECs in a dose- and time-dependent manner in concomitant with promotions of interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α , LC3-II/I and Beclin-1 levels. Besides, circ_0000231 and PDCD4 expressions were upregulated, and miR-590-5p was downregulated in ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs. Functionally, knockdown of circ_0000231 and overexpression of miR-590-5p could suppress ox-LDL-elicited above effects on apoptosis, autophagy and inflammatory response, accompanied with PDCD4 downregulation. Physically, miR-590-5p could directly interact with circ_0000231 and PDCD4. CONCLUSION: Downregulation of circ_0000231 suppresses HUVECs from ox-LDL-induced injury partially through regulating miR-590-5p/PDCD4 axis via competing endogenous RNA mechanism, showing a novel potential target for the pathology and treatment of endothelial injury in AS. Show more

Keywords: circ_0000231, miR-590-5p, ox-LDL, HUVECs, PDCD4

DOI: 10.3233/CH-231696

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 283-299, 2024

Authors: Tanner, Sophie | Zhou, Juan | Bietar, Bashir | Lehmann, Christian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) represents a severe injury to the brain and is associated with a high mortality (40%). Several experimental SAH models are described in the literature requiring specialized equipment and a high degree of surgical expertise. Our goal was to validate a simplified, cost-effective model to permit future studies of SAH. METHODS: SAH was induced by injection of homologous blood into the cisterna magna. Perfusion-fixation then perfusion of gelatinous India ink was performed. Brains and brainstems were collected and imaged for analysis of cerebral vasospasm. Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining was used to analyze brain tissue …cell death 24 hours following stroke. A composite neuroscore was utilized to assess SAH-related neurologic deficits. RESULTS: Anterior cerebral artery and basilary artery diameters were significantly reduced at 24 hours post SAH induction. Middle cerebral artery diameter was also reduced; however, the results were not significant. TTC staining showed no infarcted tissue. Neuroscores were significantly lower in the SAH mice, indicating the presence of functional deficits. CONCLUSIONS: This simplified model of SAH elicits pathological changes consistent with those described for more complex models in the literature. Therefore, it can be used in future preclinical studies examining the pathophysiology of SAH and novel treatment options. Show more

Keywords: Subarachnoid hemorrhage, stroke, cerebral vasospasm, cisterna magna, neuroscore, anterior cerebral artery, middle cerebral artery, basilar artery

DOI: 10.3233/CH-231997

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 301-313, 2024

Authors: Sachsamanis, Georgios | Delgado, Julio Perez | Oikonomou, Kyriakos | Schierling, Wilma | Pfister, Karin | Zuelke, Carl | Betz, Thomas

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prophylactic mesh implantation following open surgical repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm is a debatable subject. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of a self-gripping polyester mesh used in on-lay technique to prevent incisional hernia after open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 495 patients who underwent aortic surgery between May 2017 and May 2021. Patients included in the study underwent open surgical repair for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with closure of the abdominal wall with either small bite suture technique or prophylactic mesh reinforcement. Primary endpoint of the study was …the occurrence of incisional hernia during a two-year follow-up period. Secondary endpoints were mesh-related complications. RESULTS: Mesh implantation with the on-lay technique was successful in all cases. No patient in the mesh group developed an incisional hernia during the 24-month follow-up period. Two patients in the non-mesh group developed a symptomatic incisional hernia during the follow-up period at 6 months. Three cases of post-operative access site complications were observed in the mesh group. CONCLUSIONS: Application of a self-gripping polyester mesh using the on-lay technique demonstrates acceptable early-durability after open surgical repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms. However, it appears to be associated with a number of post-operative access site complications. Show more

Keywords: ProGrip, polyester mesh, onlay technique, incisional hernia, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

DOI: 10.3233/CH-232008

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 315-322, 2024

Authors: Pan, Yanghong | Liu, Delin | Liang, Fei | Kong, Zixiang | Zhang, Xu | Ai, Qinqin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: No studies have been retrieved comparing perfluorobutane with sulfur hexafluoride for microwave ablation (MWA) in small hepatocellular carcinoma(sHCC). OBJECTIVE: To retrospective investigate the value of perfluorobutane ultrasonography contrast agent in ultrasonography (US)-guided MWA of sHCC. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective clinical controlled study about US-guided percutaneous MWA in patients with sHCC, and in patients undergoing intra-operative treatment with perfluorobutane or sulfur hexafluoride. In both groups, a contrast agent was injected to clear the tumor and then a needle was inserted. A 5-point needle prick difficulty score was developed to compare needle prick difficulty in the …two groups of cases. RESULTS: A total of 67 patients were included: 25 patients in group perfluorobutane, aged 41–82 (60.64±9.46), tumor size 1.1–2.8 (1.78±0.45) cm. 42 patients in group sulfur hexafluoride, aged 38–78 (62.26±9.27), with tumor size of 1.1–3.0 (1.89±0.49) cm. There was no significant difference in age or tumor size in both groups (P  > 0.05). Puncture difficulty score (5-point): 2.0–2.7 (2.28±0.29) in group perfluorobutane, and 2.0–4.7 (2.95±0.85) in group sulfur hexafluoride, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P  < 0.05). Enhanced imaging results within 3 months after surgery: complete ablation rate was 100% (25/25) in the group perfluorobutane, 95.2% (40/42 in the group sulfur hexafluoride), with no significant difference between the two groups (P  > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Perfluorobutane kupffer phase can make the operator accurately deploy the ablation needle and reduce the difficulty of operation. Show more

Keywords: Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS), liver cancer, perfluorobutane (Sonazoid), kupffer, microwave ablation (MWA)

DOI: 10.3233/CH-232055

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 323-331, 2024

Authors: Yildiz, Yasemin | Mutlu, Emre | Arihan, Okan | Yagcioglu, A. Elif Anil | Dikmenoglu Falkmarken, Neslihan H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hemorheological parameters have been reported to be altered in cardiovascular disease. Major depression has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. OBJECTIVE: Our hypothesis is that hemorheological parameters are disturbed in major depressive disorder. METHODS: Major depressive disorder and control groups consisted of 50 subjects. Plasma viscosity, erythrocyte aggregation, erythrocyte deformability, hematological parameters and hematological parameters were examined. RESULTS: Plasma viscosity was statistically significantly higher, erythrocyte elongation index at 0.53 Pa and 0.95 Pa was lower, and MCV, MCH, and MCHC values were also lower in the major depression group (P  < 0.05). Elongation index …and plasma viscosity were correlated with depressive symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS: The increased plasma viscosity and decreased elongation index of erythrocytes indicate an unfavorable hemorheological situation in patients with major depressive disorder compared with healthy controls. The results of this study confirm the findings of studies finding a potential threat to cardiovascular health from major depressive disorder. Increased plasma viscosity and decreased erythrocyte elongation index in depressed patients may be risk factors for cardiovascular events and provide data on the causality of the association between depression and cardiovascular disease. Show more

Keywords: Hemorheology, depression, cardiovascular disease, plasma viscosity, erythrocyte deformability

DOI: 10.3233/CH-232061

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 333-345, 2024

Authors: Kordi, Negin | Saydi, Ali | Karami, Sajad | Bagherzadeh-Rahmani, Behnam | Marzetti, Emanuele | Jung, Friedrich | Stockwell, Brent R.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract:  Ferroptosis is a form of programmed cell death that plays a significant role in causing several diseases such as heart attack and heart failure, through alterations in fat, amino acid, and iron metabolism. Comprehending the regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis signaling is critical because it has a considerable effect on the elderly’s mortality. Conversely, age-related changes in substrate metabolism and metabolite levels are recognized to give rise to obesity. Furthermore, research has proposed that aging and obesity-related changes in substrate metabolism may aggravate ferroptosis. The suppression of ferroptosis holds potential as a successful therapeutic approach for managing different diseases, including sarcopenia, …cardiovascular diseases, and central nervous system diseases. However, the pathologic and biological mechanisms behind the function of ferroptosis are not fully comprehended yet. Physical activity could affect lipid, amino acid, and iron metabolism to modulate ferroptosis. The aim of this study is to showcase the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to ferroptosis and discuss the role of aging and physical activity in this phenomenon. Show more

Keywords: Aerobic training, elderly, iron metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism

DOI: 10.3233/CH-232076

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 347-366, 2024

Authors: Wu, Zehong | Liao, Manli | Li, Huajuan | Huang, Shengchao | Liang, Xin | Chen, Bohan | Zhang, Guoli | Yang, Yuping | Xu, Xiaohong

Article Type: Case Report

Abstract:  Secretory carcinoma of the breast (SCB) is a rare and specific type of breast cancer. Owing to its rarity, the number of SCB reports available is limited, with most of them focusing on clinical and pathological characteristics but no reports on its multimodal ultrasound (US) features. Thus, we present a rare case of SCB, retrospectively analyzing manifestations of US and contrast-enhanced US, as well as its pathological basis, aiming to enhance the understanding of US image features of SCB and provide more valuable information for clinical diagnosis. Moreover, the treatment strategy adopted for this patient may serve as a template …for future management of SCB. Show more

Keywords: Breast cancer, secretory carcinoma of the breast, ultrasonography, multimodal ultrasound

DOI: 10.3233/CH-242095

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 367-373, 2024

Authors: Shi, Li-Tao | Kong, Fan-Qiang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study involved an analysis of preoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) incidence and changes in coagulation function among elderly patients suffering from hip fractures. The objective was to offer guidance on the prevention and management of preoperative DVT in the lower extremities of elderly individuals with hip fractures. METHODS: A total of 282 elderly individuals with a hip fracture were enrolled and divided into two groups based on the location of the fracture: femoral intertrochanteric fracture (FIF, 161 individuals) and femoral neck fracture (FNF, 121 individuals). The two groups were compared with respect to baseline characteristics, including …gender, age, and comorbid chronic diseases. Furthermore, the analysis encompassed the incidence of preoperative DVT in both lower extremities, along with seven coagulation parameters and platelet count before the surgical procedure. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in baseline information between the two groups. The incidence of preoperative DVT in the FIF group was higher than that in the FNF group, along with a significantly higher percentage of patients exhibiting increased levels of D-dimer and fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products (FDPs). CONCLUSION: Preoperative hypercoagulability and a greater prevalence of DVT were observed in elderly individuals with FIF compared to individuals with FNF. This indicates that clinicians should pay attention to elderly patients with FIFs, especially those with increased D-dimer and FDP levels. Show more

Keywords: Coagulation, deep vein thrombosis, D-dimer, elderly, femoral intertrochanteric fracture, femoral neck fracture, fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products, hip fracture

DOI: 10.3233/CH-242122

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 375-382, 2024

Authors: He, Yu-Chuan | Yuan, Guo-Dong | Li, Nan | Ren, Mei-Fang | Qian-Zhang, | Deng, Kai-Ning | Wang, Le-Chuan | Xiao, Wei-Ling | Ma, Nan | Stamm, Christof | Felthaus, Oliver | Prantl, Lukas | Nie, Jia | Wang, Gang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Myocardial infarction refers to the ischemic necrosis of myocardium, characterized by a sharp reduction or interruption of blood flow in the coronary arteries due to the coronary artery occlusion, resulting in severe and prolonged ischemia in the corresponding myocardium and ultimately leading to ischemic necrosis of the myocardium. Given its high risk, it is considered as one of the most serious health threats today. In current clinical practice, multiple approaches have been explored to diminish myocardial oxygen consumption and alleviate symptoms, but notable success remains elusive. Accumulated clinical evidence has showed that the implantation of mesenchymal stem cell for treating …myocardial infarction is both effective and safe. Nevertheless, there persists controversy and variability regarding the standardizing MSC transplantation protocols, optimizing dosage, and determining the most effective routes of administration. Addressing these remaining issues will pave the way of integration of MSCs as a feasible mainstream cardiac treatment. Show more

Keywords: Myocardial infarction, mesenchymal stem cells, nanomaterials

DOI: 10.3233/CH-249101

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 383-398, 2024

Authors: Cavalcante dos Santos, Elaine | Creteur, Jacques | Taccone, Fabio Silvio

Article Type: Letter

Abstract: Alterations in skin blood flow (SBF) may help to detect occult hypoperfusion in critically ill patients after fluid resuscitation. In this study, SBF is globally unaltered by red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) in non-bleeding critically ill patients after initial resuscitation; however, 37.5% of patients showed a significant increase in SBF. No correlation between relative changes in SBF and systemic variables after RBCT was observed.

Keywords: Tissue perfusion, red blood cell transfusions, skin laser Doppler

DOI: 10.3233/CH-232091

Citation: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 87, no. 3, pp. 399-404, 2024