How does the tidal cycle influence the estuarine dynamics of microplastics?

Estuaries are the main pathway for the microplastics (MPs) to enter into the oceans. However, factors that drive river-sea transport of MPs are not yet fully understood. Therefore, our research investigated the influence of the tidal cycle on the abundance and characteristics of MPs in an urban estuary, through high-frequency sampling (every 2-3 h) using a plankton net (120 μm mesh size) in two seasons (rainy and dry seasons).

Reduced direct oral anticoagulant dose vs dual antiplatelet therapy after left atrial appendage closure in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is an alternative therapy for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who are not eligible for long-term oral anticoagulation. However, the optimal therapy after this procedure still is controversial, especially in a subgroup of patients with severe renal dysfunction.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of low-dose direct oral anticoagulation (l-DOAC) vs dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after LAAC in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

The influence of nutrition in nodular thyroid pathology: a systematic review.

Nodular thyroid pathologies (NThyPs) are prevalent thyroid diseases, with a steadily increasing global incidence. Although their exact causes remain uncertain, various modifying factors, such as nutrition, influence their development. We aimed to systematically identify and synthesize the influence of dietary exposures on NThyPs risk.

Left ventricular thrombus routine screening with contrast echocardiography in patients with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction: is it worth it?

Background: Left ventricular (LV) thrombus has a higher incidence among patients with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) when compared to other types of acute myocardial infarction and is associated with worse prognosis. The management of LV thrombus diagnosis remains challenging. Contrast echocardiography (transthoracic echocardiography, TTE) has shown potential in improving the accuracy for its diagnosis, thereby influencing treatment strategies concerning antithrombotic/anticoagulation therapy.