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INTRODUCTION: The chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is characterized by a well-defined microdeletion and is associated with a wide range of brain-related phenotypes including schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SCZ), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), anxiety disorders and attention deficit disorders (ADHD). The typically deleted region in 22q11.2DS contains multiple genes which haploinsufficiency has the potential of altering the protein and the metabolic profiles. OBJECTIVES: Alteration in metabolic processes and downstream protein pathways during the early brain development may help to explain the increased prevalence of the observed neurodevelopmental phenotypes in 22q11.2DS. However, relatively little is known about the correlation of dysregulated protein/metabolite expression and neurobehavioral impairments in individuals who developed them over time. METHODS: In this study, we performed untargeted metabolic and proteomic analysis in plasma samples derived from 30 subjects including 16 participants with 22q11.2DS and 14 healthy controls (TD) enrolled in a longitudinal study, aiming to identify a metabolic and protein signature informing about the underlying mechanisms involved in disease development and progression. The metabolic and proteomic profiles were also compared between the participants with 22q11.2DS with and without various comorbidities, such as medical involvement, psychiatric conditions, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to detect potential changes among multiple specimens, collected overtime, with the aim to understand the basic underlying mechanisms involved in disease development and progression. RESULTS: We observed a large number of statistically significant differences in metabolites between the two groups. Among them, the levels of taurine and arachidonic acid were significantly lower in 22q11.2DS compared to the TD group. In addition, we identified 16 proteins that showed significant changes in expression levels (adjusted P

Objective To develop a CT-based scoring system for assessment of hip arthropathy in AS. Methods All AS patients were prospectively recruited, consented and underwent whole-body stereoradiographs and pelvis CT, which were assessed by two independent radiologists. Stereoradiographs were assessed according to Kellgreen-Lawrence and BASRI-h. For the Hip arthropathy CT score in AS (HACTSAS), joints were divided into 7 segments and scored for joint space, osteophytes, subchondral cysts/erosions. Patients were clinically assessed for range of motion (ROM), pain and clinical scores (BASMI, BASFI, ASQol, BASDAI and ASDAS). Radiological scores correlations with clinical parameters were compared. ROM sensitivity and specificity for hip arthropathy (BASRI-h ≥ 2) were calculated. Results Sample included 112 patients, with 36/112 females and 76/112 males. Average age was 51.0 ± 11.2 years and mean duration of AS was 20.9 ± 9.6 years. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for HACTSAS, Kellgreen-Lawrence and BASRI-h were 0.89, 0.89 and 0.82, respectively. HACTSAS showed moderate absolute correlation with ROM (ρ =  −0.41) and BASMI (ρ =  0.45), and weak with pain (ρ  =   0.18) and BASFI (ρ  = 0.25). BASRI-h and Kellgreen-Lawrence exhibited moderate correlation with ROM (ρ =  −0.44 and ρ =  −0.40, respectively), weak with pain (ρ =  −0.27and ρ =  −0.23, respectively) and BASFI (ρ =  −0.16 and ρ =  −0.18, respectively), but only weak with BASMI (ρ =  −0.34 and ρ =  −0.36, respectively). Internal rotation <15°, abduction <31° and intermalleolar distance <75cm were, respectively, 73%, 70% and 73% sensitivity and 81%, 65% and 68% specific for hip arthropathy. Conclusion HACTSAS exhibited higher correlation with BASMI and BASFI when compared with BASRI-h, but less correlation with pain and ROM. Internal rotation was the best clinical discriminator for hip arthropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a pivotal pathological basis of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been disclosed to exert a vital part in the progression of AS. However, the functions of circ_0004872 in the progression of AS is indistinct. In this context, we aimed to elucidate the role of circ_0004872 and the potential mechanism in AS. The level of circ_0004872, miR-424-5p and fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2 (FRS2) was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cell proliferation was monitored by Cell Counting Kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EDU) assays. The invasion and migration capabilities of VSMCs were tested by transwell assays and wound-healing assay, respectively. Western blot was adopted to check the protein levels of CyclinD1, Vimentin and FRS2. Dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were executed to manifest the interaction between miR-424-5p and circ_0004872 or FRS2. The level of circ_0004872 was increased in the serum samples of AS patients and ox-LDL-exposed VSMCs. Ox-LDL exposure triggered cell proliferation, invasion and migration ability of VSMCs. depletion of circ_0004872 partly weakened ox-LDL-mediated effects in VSMCs. Mechanistically, circ_0004872 functioned as a sponge of miR-424-5p, and miR-424-5p inhibition partly alleviated circ_0004872 deficiency-mediated influences in VSMCs. Additionally, miR-424-5p interacted with FRS2, and miR-424-5p constrained dysfunction in ox-LDL-stimulated VSMCs via reducing FRS2 level. Notably, circ_0004872 functioned as a sponge of miR-424-5p to elevate FRS2 expression. Circ_0004872 accelerated ox-LDL-induced damage via mediating miR-424-5p/FRS2 axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis(AS) is a vascular disease characterized by the development of plaque in the arteries, and atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart arrhythmia. These two conditions share several risk factors in common, such as aging, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Ferroptosis is a new mode of non-apoptotic cell death that plays a key role in cardiomyocyte death and has been associated with a variety of cardiac diseases. This study aimed to investigate the ferroptosis biomarkers and underlying biological mechanisms associated with AF and AS. Materials and Methods: The gene expression dataset was obtained from GEO database, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and ferroptosis expressed genes (FDGs) were obtained by data processing and screening, and then functional enrichment, network construction, transcription factor prediction, identification of biomarkers by LASSO and SVM - RFE algorithms, and also immune infiltration analyses and cellular experiments were performed. Results: In AF and AS, 1627 and 571 DEGs were identified respectively, and 128 were intersected, and 47 common FDGs were also identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis of DEGs revealed that they were associated with biological processes and pathways such as leukocyte immunity, and FDGs were also involved in specific functions and pathways. Fifteen key genes were identified, CSF1R and ITGAM expression differences were verified, and seven transcription factors were predicted to be differentially expressed. Characterized genes were screened to construct models with good diagnostic efficacy, and immune infiltration showed that NUPR1 was associated with altered immune environments, and WB indicated that NUPR1 was highly expressed in the disease model. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that the ferroptosis gene NUPR1 plays a role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation and atherosclerosis, and also provides valuable insights into their molecular mechanisms, which may contribute to the development of new targets and strategies for the treatment of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V-doped CdTe polycrystalline films can achieve both doping activation and defect passivation by high-temperature CdCl2 heat treatment, but this requires simultaneous modulation of the amount of CdCl2 introduced to obtain high-quality films. It is found that increasing the CdCl2 introduction does not change the physical phase structure and lattice constant of CdTe:As thin films, but promotes grain recrystallisation, and can promote the formation of A-center, and inhibit the formation of Cd vacancy (VCd) defects, as well as the formation of deep energy level defects. The results provide guidance for the improvement of high-temperature CdCl2 heat treatment of V-doped CdTe polycrystalline thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atherosclerosis (AS) is an inflammatory disease with multiple causes. Multiple circular RNAs (circRNAs) are known to be involved in the pathogenesis of AS. To explore the function and mechanism of circ_0005699 in oxidative low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) injury. Ox-LDL treatment restrained HUVECs viability, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis ability, and accelerated HUVECs apoptosis, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress. Circ_0005699 was up-regulated in the serum samples of AS patients and ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Interference of circ_0005699 effectively rescued ox-LDL-induced injury in HUVECs. Additionally, miR-384 could bind to circ_0005699, and miR-384 depletion inverted the effects of circ_0005699 deficiency on ox-LDL-mediated HUVEC injury. Moreover, ASPH was a direct target of miR-384, and the enforced expression of ASPH overturned miR-384-induced effects on ox-LDL-induced HUVECs. Importantly, circ_0005699 regulated ASPH expression via sponging miR-384. Interference of circ_0005699 protected against ox-LDL-induced injury in HUVECs at least partly by regulating ASPH expression via acting as a miR-384 sponge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous remediation of cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) pollution is a great challenge due to the opposite chemical properties of Cd and As. In this study, carbon-supported nano-zero-valent iron (C/nZVI) was prepared through carbon thermal reduction and applied it to the remediation of Cd- and As-contaminated environments. The C/nZVI composites prepared with Fe–C ratio of 1:10 and pyrolysis temperature at 800 °C have better removal and immobilized effects on Cd and As pollution compared with other C/nZVI composites. Dissolved organic matter and nZVI in C/nZVI composites are involved in the adsorption of Cd and As. Arsenic exists on the surface of the C/nZVI composites in the form of H2AsO4− and HAsO42−, while Cd exists on the surface of the materials in the form of CdCO3, Cd–O and CdFe2O4. C/nZVI-10-800 significantly reduced the Cd and As content of Chinese cabbages (23.13% and 47.32% in aerial parts, respectively) during the remediation of As- and Cd-co-contaminated soils. This study demonstrated that C/nZVI composites are a promising material for Cd and As pollution remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The utilization of biochar as a relatively efficient sorbent or stationary phase for the separation and preconcentration of a wide range of analytes represents an innovative approach in current sample pretreatment methods. Appropriate pre- and post-pyrolysis modification of the input precursor and pyrolysis product, respectively, allows targeted design of the physicochemical properties and sorption characteristics of the resulting sorbent. The present work deals with the preparation of pyrolysis materials based on unmodified cattail leaf biomass (BC) and its Mg-modified analogue (MgBC) by a slow pyrolysis process at 500 °C and a residence time of 1 h in a pyrolysis reactor. Physicochemical characterization of BC and MgBC carried out by pH, total C, N, surface size analysis (SSA), 13C NMR, SEM-EDX and XRD confirmed significant morphological and mineralogical differences between the prepared sorbents. By performing sorption experiments using a model anionic analyte (As) and application of Langmuir isotherm, we found that the predicted maximum sorption capacity of MgBC for As is 13.5-fold higher than that of BC. The sorption process of As by both sorbents is best described by the Sips adsorption isotherm (R2 ≥ 0.995) and a pseudo-nth order kinetic model (R2 ≥ 0.997). The optimum pH for As sorption by BC and MgBC sorbents is in the interval 5–6. The presence of competitive phosphate anions (equimolar concentration of 1:1) in the solution significantly reduces the sorption capacity of MgBC for As by 40% for BC by 70%. The presence of Cl- ions showed no significant effect on the sorption capacity of Bc and MgBC for As. Both sorbents were best recovered using 0.1 mol/L NaOH solution when the desorption efficiency for both sorbents was more than 95%. The MgBC sorbent showed 35% retention of As from the real sample in the model SPE column at a flow rate of 0.12 mL/s. Based on the obtained knowledge, it is evident that biochar-based sorbent prepared from Mg-modified precursor represents an effective sorbent for anionic forms of analytes and opens the possibility of its use also in preconcentration and separation techniques.

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Arsenic (As) is one of the most important water pollutant of global concern due to its extreme hazard. In the present study, B. subtilis synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) were used for mitigation of harmful metalloid As from the aqueous solution. Initially, the arsenic removal efficiency was tested in a batch culture experiment across various concentrations (5, 10 and 15 ppm) of B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs at different pH, time interval and agitation speed. Optimal removal efficiency of As by using B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs was observed at pH 7, after 80 min, and with agitation at 200 rpm. Additionally, hydroponic culture experiment was designed to assess B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs efficiency in removal of As from As-contaminated water used to irrigate rice plants. Results revealed that B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs effectively removed As from the contiminated water and reduced its uptake by the different parts of rice plants (root, shoot and leaf). Furthermore, these B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs also reduced the bioaccumulation and enhanced plant tolerance to As, suggesting their potential in mitigating heavy metal toxicity, especially As and promoting plant growth. Thus, this study proposes B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs as nano-adsorbents in reducing arsenic toxicity in rice plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Education, Health & Sport is the property of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

AbstractThis study assessed whether the relationship between stock market development and economic growth in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is conditioned by institutional quality. Empirical estimations to substantiate the mediating role of disaggregated institutional quality variables in the stock market development and economic growth relationships are performed using the Hansen threshold regression method and the study period is from 2000 to 2020. The findings revealed that good institutional structures help stock market development to have a greater positive influence on growth in the region. When institutional quality are disaggregated into its various constituents, the study results suggest that when government effectiveness is the threshold variable, stock market development has a positive and significant relationship with growth below the threshold, whereas higher regulatory control has a negative effect on how stock market development influences growth. This finding suggests that excessive government interference hinders the stock markets to have greater influence on growth. Further, the study results suggest that when rule of law, and political stability are above the estimated threshold, stock market development has a positive effect on growth whereas control of corruption, and voice and accountability negatively affect how stock market development influences growth when it is below the estimated threshold level. The findings of the study suggest that policies towards improving corruption control, voice and accountability, rule of law, and an optimum level of regulatory control, such as promoting democratic principles, instituting punitive measures to clamp down corruption, pragmatic measures to entrench rule of law can help stock market development to have a greater positive influence on growth in the ECOWAS region. ECOWAS member states are therefore encouraged to ensure various institutions are adequately resourced to enable the region to achieve the growth-enhancing effect of stock market development.

Angelman syndrome (AS) is a neurogenetic disorder caused by the loss of ubiquitin ligase E3A (UBE3A) gene expression in the brain. The UBE3A gene is paternally imprinted in brain neurons. Clinical features of AS are primarily due to the loss of maternally expressed UBE3A in the brain. A healthy copy of paternal UBE3A is present in the brain but is silenced by a long non-coding antisense transcript (UBE3A-ATS). Here, we demonstrate that an artificial transcription factor (ATF-S1K) can silence Ube3a-ATS in an adult mouse model of Angelman syndrome (AS) and restore endogenous physiological expression of paternal Ube3a. A single injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing ATF-S1K (AAV-S1K) into the tail vein enabled whole-brain transduction and restored UBE3A protein in neurons to ∼25% of wild-type protein. The ATF-S1K treatment was highly specific to the target site with no detectable inflammatory response 5 weeks after AAV-S1K administration. AAV-S1K treatment of AS mice showed behavioral rescue in exploratory locomotion, a task involving gross and fine motor abilities, similar to low ambulation and velocity in AS patients. The specificity and tolerability of a single injection of AAV-S1K therapy for AS demonstrate the use of ATFs as a promising translational approach for AS.

Wild boars, being a common game species, inhabit regions across Eurasia, the southern regions of Asia and certain Indonesian islands. Being omnivorous and due to their relatively long lifespan, wide distribution and a relatively high number of shot animals per annual legal hunting season, they are suitable to be biological indicators of occurrence of heavy metals. Concentrations of cadmium, lead, arsenic and mercury were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry and cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry in the livers of free-living wild boars (n = 58) from two locations in the Republic of North Macedonia. In all four examined heavy metals, no statistically significant difference between the locations was found (p > 0.05). The mean levels of heavy metals were Cd 0.391 mg/kg and 0.339 mg/kg; Pb 0.213 mg/kg and 0.204 mg/kg; Hg 0.034 mg/kg and 0.037 mg/kg; As 0.035 mg/kg and 0.029 mg/kg in the livers of boars from Bitola and Gevgelija hunting sites, respectively. Although some samples (two samples of Hg, ten samples of Cd and two samples of Pb) exceeded the legal limits, the average values for all heavy metals were far below the maximum permitted values. These findings are promising since they suggest that the ecosystem in the Republic of North Macedonia is stable concerning heavy metal pollution.

Inhibitors of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are of interest for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders and other human pathologies. In this frame, the present work describes different synthetic strategies to obtain MAO inhibitors via the coupling of the aminocoumarin core with arylsulfonyl chlorides followed by copper azide-alkyne cycloaddition, leading to coumarin–sulfonamide–nitroindazolyl–triazole hybrids. The nitration position on the coumarin moiety was confirmed through nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and molecular electron density theory in order to elucidate the molecular mechanism and selectivity of the electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction. The coumarin derivatives were evaluated for their inhibitory potency against monoamine oxidases and cholinesterases. Molecular docking calculations provided a rational binding mode of the best compounds in the series with MAO A and B. The work identified hybrids 14a–c as novel MAO inhibitors, with a selective action against isoform B, of potential interest to combat neurological diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of As pollution emission from sludge during combustion has received widespread attention. The impact of flue gas components on the interaction with CaO and As during sludge combustion was analyzed using a series of experimental characterization methods. The strength of the activity of As2O3 on the CaO(001) surface as well as on the CO2/SO2/H2O+CaO(001) surface with different O adsorption sites was revealed by combining with Density Functional Theory (DFT). According to the results, CO2 in the flue gas reacted with CaO in a reversible carbonation reaction, which optimized the pore structure of the solid phase products and promoted the capture of As by CaO. SO2 in the flue gas reacted with CaO in a sulfation reaction reaction to block the pores, which was not conducive to the capture of As by CaO. The presence of moisture led to poor pore structure collapse of the solid phase products as well as the formation of gehlenite, which reduced the enrichment of As by CaO. DFT calculations showed that the adsorption of As2O3 molecules on the CO2+CaO(001) surface was affected by the position of the O active site, and the adsorption energy at the OC1 top site was higher than that on the clean surface, which was favorable for the stable adsorption of As2O3 molecules. The existence of SO2 decreased As2O3 molecules' adsorption energy on the CaO(001) surface, which was unfavorable for the adsorption of As2O3 molecules. There were two main effects of H2O molecules on the adsorption of As2O3 on the CaO(001) surface. One was the H2O molecules weakened the interaction between the As atoms and Osurf atoms, which was unfavorable to the adsorption of As2O3 molecules; the other was the existence of stronger adsorption of O atoms in H2O molecules on As atoms in As2O3 molecules, which made As2O3 molecules adsorbed at the top of OH0 adsorbed with adsorption energies much larger than that of clean surface, and the adsorption was more stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to assess the feasibility and efficiency of electrokinetic (EK) remediation of soil contaminated with As, Cd, Cu, and Pb using the biodegradable chelator N, N-bis(carboxymethyl)-tetrasodium salt (GLDA) at the pilot scale. Materials and methods: The experiments were performed under a constant voltage (40 V) in an EK reactor (100 cm (length) × 50 cm (width) × 25 cm (height)) for over 100 days using various enhancement strategies. The current, electroosmotic flow (EOF), microstructure, mineral composition of the soil samples (before and after EK remediation), removal efficiencies, chemical forms, and ecotoxicity risks of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were determined. Results and discussion: The results showed gradual decreases in the electrical current and EOF over time. The spatial distribution of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb in the soil solution and electrolyte revealed that the removed metals primarily accumulated in anolytes. The soil As, Cd, and Cu contents, especially near the anode, showed gradual reductions. The total removal efficiencies of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were 49.4%, 44.0%, 53.6%, and 36.6%, respectively. Overall, the ecotoxicity risks of the remaining As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were below the initial values. A soil microstructure and mineral composition analysis indicated that the GLDA-enhanced EK technology effectively removed As, Cd, Cu, and Pb by dissolving soil minerals and breaking chemical bonds. The unit energy consumption ranged from 1.25 to 1.83 kW·h/t/%, indicating lower or comparable values to the data in the literature. Conclusions: The biodegradable chelator, GLDA, has been shown to remove different types of potentially toxic elements using enhancement strategies on a pilot scale with low unit energy consumption. Arsenic migrated to the anode in the anionic form, and the complexes formed by Cd, Cu, and Pb with GLDA were negatively charged and moved toward the cathode. After the EK treatment, the ecotoxicity risks of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb decreased with a reduction in the contents and the chemical form changes of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and management of axial spondyloarthritis (AxSpA) over recent decades. A greater understanding of the immunopathogenesis of the disease has paved the way for the development of targeted treatments. Their efficacy has been demonstrated in randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses and one head-to-head study of biologic DMARDs. Treatment decisions in AxSpA are currently influenced by patient choice, co-morbidity, clinician familiarity and cost. We review the clinical trials that underpin the evidence base for treatments in AxSpA. We also cover the meta-analyses and head-to-head data that seek to support clinicians in personalizing treatment decisions. Further, we discuss the recent international guidelines that provide clinicians with treatment pathways and guidance. We conclude that treatment decisions in managing both radiographic and non-radiographic AxSpA should be based on shared decision-making with patients, the clinical effectiveness of drug class, co-morbidity and cost. At present, we have limited head-to-head data to prioritize one drug class over another for first-line treatment but can recommend tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 17 (IL17) and JAK inhibition as being comparable in terms of clinical, structural and patient-reported outcome measures. Further real-world data may guide treatment decision-making in individual patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bányászati és Kohászati Lapok - Kohászat is the property of Hungarian Mining & Metallurgical Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

[Objective] To determine the content of two harmful heavy metal elements (As and Hg), and establish a detection method for As and Hg in Gardenia jasminoides. [Method] After microwave digestion of the sample, the content of As and Hg was determined by atomic fluorescence spectrometry. [Result] The As content in Gardenia jasminoides was 0.104 5 mg/kg, and the Hg content was 0.014 1 mg/kg, both of which were lower than the national standard and comply with the limit requirements of the 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. [Conclusion] This method was efficient, accurate, reliable and highly precise, providing a simple and fast testing method for the quality control and monitoring of As and Hg in traditional Chinese medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) management is moving towards patient-tailored strategies. Advances in molecular and genetic profiling of tumor tissues, integrated with clinical risk assessments, provide deeper insights into disease aggressiveness. This study aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the pivotal genomic tests supporting PCa treatment decisions, analyzing—through real-world data—trends in their use and the growth of supporting literature evidence. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using the extensive PearlDiver™ Mariner database, which contains de-identified patient records, in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were employed to identify patients diagnosed with PCa during the study period—2011 to 2021. We determined the utilization of primary tissue-based genetic tests (Oncocyte DX®, Prolaris®, Decipher®, and ProMark®) across all patients diagnosed with PCa. Subsequently, within the overall PCa cohort, patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) and received genetic testing postoperatively were identified. The yearly distribution of these tests and the corresponding trends were illustrated with graphs. Results: During the study period, 1,561,203 patients with a PCa diagnosis were recorded. Of these, 20,748 underwent tissue-based genetic testing following diagnosis, representing 1.3% of the total cohort. An increasing trend was observed in the use of all genetic tests. Linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant increase over time in the use of individual tests (all p-values < 0.05). Among the patients who underwent RP, 3076 received genetic analysis following surgery, representing 1.27% of this group. Conclusions: Our analysis indicates a growing trend in the utilization of tissue-based genomic testing for PCa. Nevertheless, they are utilized in less than 2% of PCa patients, whether at initial diagnosis or after surgical treatment. Although it is anticipated that their use may increase as more scientific evidence becomes available, their role requires further elucidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease, characterized by excessive new bone formation. We previously reported that the complement factor H-related protein-5 (CFHR5), a member of the human factor H protein family, is significantly elevated in patients with AS compared to other rheumatic diseases. However, the pathophysiological mechanism underlying new bone formation by CFHR5 is not fully understood. In this study, we revealed that CFHR5 and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-6, IL-17A, and IL-23) were elevated in the AS group compared to the HC group. Correlation analysis revealed that CFHR5 levels were not significantly associated with proinflammatory cytokines, while CFHR5 levels in AS were only positively correlated with the high CRP group. Notably, treatment with soluble CFHR5 has no effect on clinical arthritis scores and thickness at hind paw in curdlan-injected SKG, but significantly increased the ectopic bone formation at the calcaneus and tibia bones of the ankle as revealed by micro-CT image and quantification. Basal CFHR5 expression was upregulated in AS-osteoprogenitors compared to control cells. Also, treatment with CFHR5 remarkedly induced bone mineralization status of AS-osteoprogenitors during osteogenic differentiation accompanied by MMP13 expression. We provide the first evidence demonstrating that CFHR5 can exacerbate the pathological bone formation of AS. Therapeutic modulation of CFHR5 could be promising for future treatment of AS. Key messages: Serum level of CFHR5 is elevated and positively correlated with high CRP group of AS patients. Recombinant CFHR5 protein contributes to pathological bone formation in in vivo model of AS. CFHR5 is highly expressed in AS-osteoprogenitors compared to disease control. Recombinant CFHR5 protein increased bone mineralization accompanied by MMP13 in vitro model of AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate the association between periodontal disease and the development of inflammatory arthritides in the general population. Methods In total, 489 125 participants from the UK Biobank without a previous history of RA, AS and PsA were enrolled. The primary outcome was the incidence of inflammatory arthritides, which was a composite of RA, AS and PsA according to the presence of periodontal disease based on self-reported oral health indicators. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses using four different models were performed to assess the association between periodontal disease and inflammatory arthritides development. Results In all, 86 905 and 402 220 individuals were categorized as with and without periodontal disease, respectively. Cox hazard analysis indicated that the presence of periodontal disease was an independent predictor of the occurrence of composite outcomes of inflammatory arthritides, which was also consistent for RA and AS. Significant associations were found to be consistent in the four Cox models and were replicated even when different criteria were used to define periodontal disease. Subgroup analyses indicated that periodontal disease was associated with an increased RA risk in those aged <60 years, and this risk was persistent for both male and female patients and for patients with seropositive/seronegative RA. Conclusion Self-reported periodontal disease is associated with inflammatory arthritides incidence in participants included in the UK Biobank, particularly for RA and AS. Higher clinical attention and optimal dental care in patients with signs of periodontal disease may be recommended for early disease detection and for reducing this risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension (HT) is a medical condition arising due to increase in blood pressure (BP) prevalent worldwide. The balanced dietary intakes of macro-elements and micro-elements including Na, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, and Cu have been described to maintain BP in humans by regulating the osmolarity of blood, cells/tissues, prevention of generation of oxidative and nitrosative stress (OANS), and endothelial damage through their functioning as important components of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), antioxidant enzyme defense system, and maintenance of blood vascular-endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) functions. However, inadequate/excess dietary intakes of Na/K, Ca/Mg, and Zn/Cu along with higher Pb and As exposures recognized to induce HT through common mechanisms including the followings: endothelial dysfunctions due to impairment of vasodilatation, increased vasoconstriction and arterial stiffness, blood clotting, inflammation, modification of sympathetic activity and higher catecholamine release, increased peripheral vascular resistance, and cardiac output; increased OANS due to reduced and elevated activities of extracellular superoxide dismutase and NAD(P)H oxidase, less nitric oxide bioavailability, decrease in cGMP and guanylate cyclase activity, increase in intracellular Ca2+ ions in VSMCs, and higher pro-inflammatory cytokines; higher parathyroid and calcitriol hormones; activation/suppression of RAAS resulting imbalance in blood Na+, K+, and water regulated by renin, angiotensin II, and aldosterone through affecting natriuresis/kaliuresis/diuresis; elevation in serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, decrease in HDL cholesterol due to defect in lipoprotein metabolism. The present study recommends the need to review simple dietary mineral intervention studies/supplementation trials before keeping their individual dietary excess intakes/exposures in consideration because their interactions lead to elevation and fall of their concentrations in body affecting onset of HT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) management is moving towards patient-tailored strategies. Advances in molecular and genetic profiling of tumor tissues, integrated with clinical risk assessments, provide deeper insights into disease aggressiveness. This study aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the pivotal genomic tests supporting PCa treatment decisions, analyzing—through real-world data—trends in their use and the growth of supporting literature evidence. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using the extensive PearlDiver™ Mariner database, which contains de-identified patient records, in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were employed to identify patients diagnosed with PCa during the study period—2011 to 2021. We determined the utilization of primary tissue-based genetic tests (Oncocyte DX®, Prolaris®, Decipher®, and ProMark®) across all patients diagnosed with PCa. Subsequently, within the overall PCa cohort, patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) and received genetic testing postoperatively were identified. The yearly distribution of these tests and the corresponding trends were illustrated with graphs. Results: During the study period, 1,561,203 patients with a PCa diagnosis were recorded. Of these, 20,748 underwent tissue-based genetic testing following diagnosis, representing 1.3% of the total cohort. An increasing trend was observed in the use of all genetic tests. Linear regression analysis showed a statistically significant increase over time in the use of individual tests (all p-values < 0.05). Among the patients who underwent RP, 3076 received genetic analysis following surgery, representing 1.27% of this group. Conclusions: Our analysis indicates a growing trend in the utilization of tissue-based genomic testing for PCa. Nevertheless, they are utilized in less than 2% of PCa patients, whether at initial diagnosis or after surgical treatment. Although it is anticipated that their use may increase as more scientific evidence becomes available, their role requires further elucidation.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on individual health and fitness routines globally. Resistance training, in particular, has become increasingly popular among men and women looking to maintain or improve their physical fitness during the pandemic. However, using Anabolic Steroids (AS) for performance enhancement in resistance training has known adverse effects. Thus, this study aimed to explore the prevalence of AS use among men and women resistance training practitioners after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 3,603 resistance training practitioners (1,855 men and 1,748 women) in various geographical locations impacted by COVID-19. The participants were asked to complete self-administered questionnaires, which included questions regarding demographic information, training habits, and current or prior usage of AS. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software and the chi-square method, with a significance level of (P

Intact atrial septum (IAS), occurring in ∼10% of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), conveys significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Perinatal interventions have been described, but outcomes remain poor. We present a fetus with HLHS with IAS who underwent immediate novel postnatal atrial appendage anastomosis, thus achieving rapid left atrial decompression. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.).

Newly synthesized cerium oxide was successfully obtained by the hard templating route. The optimal As(III) and As(V) adsorption onto the studied adsorbent was reached for the initial pH of 4.0 and a contact time of 10 h. The highest static adsorption capacities for As(III) and As(V) were 92 mg g−1 and 66 mg g−1, respectively. The pseudo-second-order model was well fitted to the As(III) and As(V) experimental kinetics data. The Langmuir model described the As(III) and As(V) adsorption isotherms on synthesized material. The adsorption mechanism of the studied ions onto the synthesized cerium oxide was complex and should be further investigated. The optimal solid–liquid ratio during the proposed aqueous extraction of inorganic As from the Fucus vesiculosus algae was 1:50. The optimal dosage of the synthesized cerium oxide (0.06 g L−1) was successfully applied for the first time for inorganic As removal from the aqueous algal extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method for the rapid detection of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) elements in pig premixed feeds by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy was investigated. Samples were added to starch and water, pasted in a water bath at 94 ℃ and scanned by EDXRF spectroscopy, with copper spectral identification for characterisation and standard addition method for quantification. The results showed that the EDXRF spectral peaks of each element were interference-free and the method was well linear (R2 >0.998) in the concentration range examined; the limits of detection were 1.06 mg/kg, 1.68 mg/kg and 1.97 mg/kg for Cd, Pb and As, respectively. The overall recoveries were 93.72%-105.10% and the overall relative standard deviations were 2.30%-9.40%. The method is simple, rapid, accurate and reliable, and can meet the needs of rapid determination of Cd, Pb and As in pig premixed feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilization is an effective method to reduce the toxicity of heavy metals in soil. The ability of modified biochar to immobilize heavy metals has achieved remarkable results, and it has been widely a concern in soil remediation. However, the comprehensive mechanism of immobilizing heavy metals in contaminated soil by modified biochar needs further exploration. Therefore, CiteSpace data analysis software was used to analyze the mechanism of fixing heavy metals in soil by modified biochar・ Oxygernanionic heavy metals As and cationic heavy metals Cd were taken as examples to analyze the mechanism of immobilizing heavy metals in soil by modified biochar・ The mechanisms of redox, surface coprecipitation, complexation, ion exchange, and electrostatic attraction were reviewed・ The reasons and methods of different mechanisms of modified biochar enhancing immobilized soil heavy metal were summarized, and the prospect of its treatment of heavy metal pollution in soil was prospected, which provided a refierence for the application of modified biochar in the treatment of heavy metal pollution in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article assesses the impact of sports journalism style on uncivil conversations, by analyzing the news that has generated the most deleted comments and the published readers' comments. The two sports newspapers with the largest number of readers in Spain (As and Marca) between 2019 and 2020 are compared. The analyzed journalistic pieces in both newspapers are proven to promote controversy and user participation, thus creating a polarized and strongly confronted community. Journalists lose their status as professionals by using a subjective, emotional and colloquial style, and they become mere commentators who can be discredited. This style is the breeding ground for uncivil conversations. Localized hate expressions are ideological: Spanish nationalism confronts Catalan independence in such a way that the world of football becomes dependent on the country's politics. There is no lack of negative gender stereotypes either in the predominantly male order of sport. Since no changes were observed during the pandemic, it can be established that these characteristics are part of the journalistic routine. Only the paywall introduced by As in the second half of 2020 change conversations: the number of messages, including deleted ones, was reduced, and positive feelings advanced in more rational conversations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Ferrihydrite is usually used as a remedy for arsenic (As)-contaminated soil due to its strong affinity and large specific surface area. However, its noncrystalline phase makes it unstable in long-term applications in the soil. In this study, a soil incubation experiment was designed using the diffusive gradient in thin film (DGT) technique and spectral techniques to investigate the fate of As-bearing ferrihydrite [As(V)-Fh] after long-term incubation at different soil water holding capacities (SWHCs). After As(V)-Fh (0.05 and 0.005 As/Fe molar ratio) was incubated in soil for 360 days, both DGT-derived labile As and Fe were released at 70% SWHC and 120% SWHC into the soil (at a vertical depth of 12 cm). The concentrations of DGT-As and DGT-Fe increased with incubation time and were greater at 120% SWHC. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that As(V)-Fh gradually transformed into hematite and goethite after 360 days of incubation. Goethite was mainly found in the 120% SWHC treatment after 180 days. Hematite and goethite formation rates were greater in the 120% SWHC treatment and in the bottom soil layer. Mechanistic analysis based on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed that the variation in soil pH and the formation of Fe(II) (under flooded water conditions) are the two key factors promoting the formation of hematite (dehydrogenation and dehydration) and goethite (As(V)-Fh dissociation and reorganization). The As release mainly occurred due to the loss of adsorption sites. Thus, it is recommended that ferrihydrite be applied in paddy–dry rotations or dry-field patterns to effectively avoid the loss of As(V)-Fh in long-term-saturated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To examine the prevalence of extra-musculoskeletal manifestations (EMM) and the association between diagnostic delay and their incidence in AS and PsA. Methods This was a retrospective, cohort study comprising two single centre cohorts in Europe and one multicentre cohort in Latin America (RESPONDIA). Crude prevalence of EMMs (uveitis, IBD and psoriasis) was calculated across geographic area and adjusted by direct standardization. Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to assess the association between diagnostic delay and EMM incidence. Results Of 3553 patients, 2097 had AS and 1456 had PsA. The overall prevalence of uveitis was 22.9% (95% CI: 21.1, 24.8) in AS and 3.8% (95% CI: 2.9, 5.0) in PsA; 8.1% (95% CI: 7.0, 9.4) and 2.1% (1.3, 2.9), respectively, for IBD; and 11.0% (95% CI: 9.7, 12.4) and 94.6% (93.0, 95.9), respectively, for psoriasis. The EMM often presented before the arthritis (uveitis 45.1% and 33.3%, and IBD 37.4% and 70%, in AS and PsA, respectively). In the multivariable model, longer diagnostic delay (≥5 years) associated with more uveitis (hazard ratio [HR] 4.01; 95% CI: 3.23, 4.07) and IBD events (HR 1.85; 95% CI: 1.28, 2.67) in AS. Diagnostic delay was not significantly associated with uveitis (HR 1.57; 95% CI: 0.69, 3.59) or IBD events (HR 1.59; 95% CI: 0.39, 6.37) in PsA. Conclusion EMMs are more prevalent in AS than PsA and often present before the onset of the articular disease. A longer diagnostic delay is associated with the ' de novo ' appearance of uveitis and IBD in AS, highlighting the need to enhance diagnostic strategies to shorten the time from first symptom to diagnosis in SpA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Anton syndrome (AS), an atypical form, exhibits bilateral vision loss coupled with denial and unconsciousness about one's blindness. • The study underscored the paramount importance of a meticulous diagnostic approach, considering clinical presentations and imaging studies, for accurate differentiation from similar conditions. • Diverse management strategies, spanning supportive care to cause-specific interventions, highlighted the necessity for tailored treatments aligned with the individual's underlying cause. Anosognosia, a neurological condition, involves a lack of awareness of one's neurological or psychiatric deficits. Anton Syndrome (AS), an unusual form of anosognosia, manifests as bilateral vision loss coupled with denial of blindness. This systematic review delves into 64 studies encompassing 72 AS cases to explore demographics, clinical presentations, treatments, and outcomes. The study rigorously followed PRISMA guidelines, screening PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases without timeframe limitations. Only English human studies providing full text were included. Data underwent thorough assessment, examining patient demographics, etiological variables, and treatment modalities. Sixty-four studies met the stringent inclusion criteria. Examining 72 AS cases showed a median age of 55 (6 to 96 years) with no gender preference. Hypertension (34.7 %) and visual anosognosia (90.3 %) were prevalent. Stroke (40.3 %) topped causes. Management included supportive (30.6 %) and causal approaches (30.6 %). Improvement was seen in 45.8 %, unchanged in 22.2 %, and deterioration in 11.1 %. Anticoagulation correlated with higher mortality (p < 0.05). AS, an unusual manifestation of blindness, stems mainly from occipital lobe damage, often due to cerebrovascular incidents. The syndrome shares features with Dide-Botcazo syndrome and dates back to Roman times. Its causes range from strokes to rare conditions like multiple sclerosis exacerbation. Accurate diagnosis involves considering clinical presentations and imaging studies, distinguishing AS from similar conditions. This comprehensive review sheds light on AS's complex landscape, emphasizing diverse etiologies, clinical features, and treatment options. Tailored treatments aligned with individual causes are crucial. The study's findings caution against blanket anticoagulation therapy, suggesting a nuanced approach. Further research is pivotal to refine diagnostics and optimize care for AS individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors in the Pakistani cohort with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) Method: After IRB approval, a cross-sectional study was conducted among patients of AS, at the Department of Rheumatology Indus Medical College, Tando Mohammad Khan, from 15th March to 15th September, 2022. After obtaining demographic data, other parameters such as blood pressure (BP) and body mass index were recorded. In addition, a 5 ml blood sample was collected to assess their serum lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar levels. Using the laboratory data, the Framingham cardiovascular risk score was calculated for each patient and they were categorized into low, intermediate, or high-risk categories. Results: Total 131 cases of ankylosing spondylitis: frequency of modifiable risk factors were: obesity (75.6%), high TG level (62.6%), high risk FRS score (40.5%), high LDL level (38.1%), low HDL (34.4%), hypertension (30.5%), diabetes mellitus (26.7%), high cholesterol level (17.6%), smoking (16%). In univariate analysis AS cases shows that increasing disease duration was associated with more risk of modifiable risk factors (p<0.05), on multivariate analysis, a positive association of age, diastolic blood pressure, smoking, diabetes mellitus, DMARDS, herbal medication-but not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: In chronic AS there's higher prevalence of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, earlier recognition and effective management helps in prevention of future cardiovascular events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a form of spondyloarthropathy (SPA) that is featured by sacroiliac joints (SIJ), axial skeleton, entheses and peripheral joints inflammation. Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthropathy or nraxSPA is a common early sign of AS before developing radiographic sacroiliitis. Visfatin is an adipokine produced in fat tissue mainly, as well as in skeletal muscle, brain, and hepatocytes. Visfatin has been demonstrated to contribute to bone homeostasis and it can induce pro-inflammatory responses in different cell types. Objective: This study aimed to investigate serum visfatin level among AS, nr-axSPA patients and controls and to elucidate its possible relationship with disease activity. Patients and Methods: This was a case-control study, which comprised 26 AS cases, 26 nr-axSPA cases and 27 healthy volunteers age- and sex-matched with the patient groups. ELISA was used in measuring visfatin concentration in the serum of studied subjects. Results: Serum visfatin level was significantly higher in AS and nr-axSPA cases groups in comparison with control group (p<0.001). There was positive correlation between visfatin with Bath AS Disease Activity Index (BASDI) (P= 0.032) and (P=0.001), and Bath AS Functional Index (BASFI) (p=0.004) and (p=0.001) in AS and nr-axSPA groups respectively. There were significant positive correlations between modified Stoke AS Spinal Score (mSASSS) and visfatin values in AS group (p<0.001). Visfatin concentrations didn't correlate with age, BMI, disease duration, ESR, CRP and ASDAS-CRP. Conclusion: Serum visfatin concentration was elevated in cases with AS and nr-axSPA, and it was accompanied by disease activity, functional impairment and radiographic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The study of the contamination patterns and characteristics of Sb and As in the soils of the legacy contaminated sites of antimony smelters is important for the redevelopment and utilization of industrial sites. In this study, 13 heavy metals were determined in the soil and plants of an antimony smelter in Gansu Province to study the biogeochemical behavior, health risk, and pollution source. The results showed that the Nemerow index of Sb (728) exceeded the value of As (43.6) by 17.6 times, and the average geoaccumulation index (Igeo) of Sb and As were 10.1 and 1.97, respectively, categorized as extremely and moderately contaminated classes. Compared to As, Sb had a larger proportion of oxidizable fraction and a smaller proportion of reducible fraction (Fe/Mn oxides), suggesting that Sb possessed a higher content of organic matter and sulfide forms. Even though the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for As was about 10 times higher than that for Sb, the accumulation of Sb in plants was not negligible. For the USEPA model, the mean hazard quotient (HQ) values of As by oral ingestion, dermal absorption, and inhalation accounted for 99.0%, 0.97%, and 0.0002% of the total, and 54.2%, 45.3%, and 0.51% for MEEPRC model, respectively. There were significant positive correlations between Sb, As, Zn, Se, Cd, and Ba (P

IntroductionDespite increased risk of cognitive decline in Hispanics/Latinos, research on early risk markers of Alzheimer's disease in this group is lacking. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) may be an early risk marker of pathological aging. We investigated associations of SCD with objective cognition among a diverse sample of Hispanics/Latinos living in the United States.MethodsSCD was measured with the Everyday Cognition Short Form (ECog-12) and cognitive performance with a standardized battery in 6125 adults aged ≥ 50 years without mild cognitive impairment or dementia (x̄age  = 63.2 years, 54.5% women). Regression models interrogated associations of SCD with objective global, memory, and executive function scores.ResultsHigher SCD was associated with lower objective global (B = -0.16, SE = 0.01), memory (B = -0.13, SE = 0.02), and executive (B = -0.13, SE = 0.02, p's

Sleep problems and poorer well-being may be particularly salient for Latino/a college students as they tend to experience sociocultural adjustments during this transitory time. Social connections, a correlate of health, change moment-to-moment for college students and may be experienced differently for people who more strongly endorse horizontal collectivist cultural values. We used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to examine how in-the-moment social connections influence in-the-moment health, and how horizontal collectivism moderates the moment-to-moment associations. Self-identified Latino/a college students (n = 221) completed a demographic information and cultural values questionnaire and then responded to EMA measures on their social connections, affective and subjective well-being, and sleep for 14 consecutive days. Better in-the-moment social connections associated with better health. Horizontal collectivism moderated some, but not all associations between social connections and health. Social connections are multidimensional and differently predict in-the-moment health among Latino/a college students who more strongly endorse horizontal collectivistic values. We discuss implications for identifying vulnerable well-being moments among this understudied population.

Circular RNA (circRNA) is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS). The present work analyzed the RNA expression of circ_0113656, microRNA-188-3p (miR-188-3p), and insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), matrix metalloprotein 2 (MMP2), and IGF2 was detected by Western blotting. Cell viability, proliferation, invasion, and migration were analyzed using the cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine, transwell invasion, and wound-healing assays, respectively. The interactions among circ_0113656, miR-188-3p, and IGF2 were identified by dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The results showed that circ_0113656 and IGF2 expression were significantly upregulated, while miR-188-3p was downregulated in the blood of AS patients and oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-treated HVSMCs in comparison with controls. The ox-LDL treatment induced HVSMC proliferation, migration, and invasion accompanied by increases in PCNA and MMP2 expression; however, these effects were attenuated after circ_0113656 knockdown. Circ_0113656 acted as a miR-188-3p sponge and it regulated ox-LDL-induced HVSMC disorders by binding to miR-188-3p. Besides, the regulation of miR-188-3p in ox-LDL-induced HVSMC injury involved IGF2. Further, the depletion of circ_0113656 inhibited IGF2 expression by interacting with miR-188-3p. Thus, the circ_0113656/miR-188-3p/IGF2 axis may mediate ox-LDL-induced HVSMC disorders in AS, providing a new therapeutic strategy for AS.