Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises a heterogeneous group of chronic inflammatory conditions of the intestine.Current therapeutic strategies primarily focus on maintaining remission and mitigating the secondary e...Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises a heterogeneous group of chronic inflammatory conditions of the intestine.Current therapeutic strategies primarily focus on maintaining remission and mitigating the secondary effects rather than reversing its pathogenic mechanisms(Jeong et al.,2019).The pathogenesis of IBD involves intestinal barrier dysfunction,tissue damage,and dysregulated innate and adaptive immune responses(de Souza et al.,2017).Elevated neutrophil activity has been reported in IBD(Danne et al.,2024),yet the precise roles and mechanisms of neutrophils in disease progression remain to be elucidated.展开更多
Studies have shown that chitosan protects against neurodegenerative diseases. However, the precise mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we administered chitosan intragastrically to an MPTP-induced mouse...Studies have shown that chitosan protects against neurodegenerative diseases. However, the precise mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we administered chitosan intragastrically to an MPTP-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease and found that it effectively reduced dopamine neuron injury, neurotransmitter dopamine release, and motor symptoms. These neuroprotective effects of chitosan were related to bacterial metabolites, specifically shortchain fatty acids, and chitosan administration altered intestinal microbial diversity and decreased short-chain fatty acid production in the gut. Furthermore, chitosan effectively reduced damage to the intestinal barrier and the blood–brain barrier. Finally, we demonstrated that chitosan improved intestinal barrier function and alleviated inflammation in both the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system by reducing acetate levels. Based on these findings, we suggest a molecular mechanism by which chitosan decreases inflammation through reducing acetate levels and repairing the intestinal and blood–brain barriers, thereby alleviating symptoms of Parkinson's disease.展开更多
The blood–brain barrier constitutes a dynamic and interactive boundary separating the central nervous system and the peripheral circulation.It tightly modulates the ion transport and nutrient influx,while restricting...The blood–brain barrier constitutes a dynamic and interactive boundary separating the central nervous system and the peripheral circulation.It tightly modulates the ion transport and nutrient influx,while restricting the entry of harmful factors,and selectively limiting the migration of immune cells,thereby maintaining brain homeostasis.Despite the well-established association between blood–brain barrier disruption and most neurodegenerative/neuroinflammatory diseases,much remains unknown about the factors influencing its physiology and the mechanisms underlying its breakdown.Moreover,the role of blood–brain barrier breakdown in the translational failure underlying therapies for brain disorders is just starting to be understood.This review aims to revisit this concept of“blood–brain barrier breakdown,”delving into the most controversial aspects,prevalent challenges,and knowledge gaps concerning the lack of blood–brain barrier integrity.By moving beyond the oversimplistic dichotomy of an“open”/“bad”or a“closed”/“good”barrier,our objective is to provide a more comprehensive insight into blood–brain barrier dynamics,to identify novel targets and/or therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating blood–brain barrier dysfunction.Furthermore,in this review,we advocate for considering the diverse time-and location-dependent alterations in the blood–brain barrier,which go beyond tight-junction disruption or brain endothelial cell breakdown,illustrated through the dynamics of ischemic stroke as a case study.Through this exploration,we seek to underscore the complexity of blood–brain barrier dysfunction and its implications for the pathogenesis and therapy of brain diseases.展开更多
Cerebral edema caused by blood-brain barrier injury after intracerebral hemorrhage is an important factor leading to poor prognosis.Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cell exosomes(hiPSC-NSC-Exos)...Cerebral edema caused by blood-brain barrier injury after intracerebral hemorrhage is an important factor leading to poor prognosis.Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cell exosomes(hiPSC-NSC-Exos)have shown potential for brain injury repair in central nervous system diseases.In this study,we explored the impact of hiPSC-NSC-Exos on blood-brain barrier preservation and the underlying mechanism.Our results indicated that intranasal delivery of hiPSC-NSC-Exos mitigated neurological deficits,enhanced blood-brain barrier integrity,and reduced leukocyte infiltration in a mouse model of intracerebral hemorrhage.Additionally,hiPSC-NSC-Exos decreased immune cell infiltration,activated astrocytes,and decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines like monocyte chemoattractant protein-1,macrophage inflammatory protein-1α,and tumor necrosis factor-αpost-intracerebral hemorrhage,thereby improving the inflammatory microenvironment.RNA sequencing indicated that hiPSC-NSC-Exo activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in astrocytes and decreased monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 secretion,thereby improving blood-brain barrier integrity.Treatment with the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 or the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 neutralizing agent C1142 abolished these effects.In summary,our findings suggest that hiPSC-NSC-Exos maintains blood-brain barrier integrity,in part by downregulating monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 secretion through activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in astrocytes.展开更多
Rectifying circuit,as a crucial component for converting alternating current into direct current,plays a pivotal role in energy harvesting microsystems.Traditional silicon-based or germanium-based rectifier diodes hin...Rectifying circuit,as a crucial component for converting alternating current into direct current,plays a pivotal role in energy harvesting microsystems.Traditional silicon-based or germanium-based rectifier diodes hinder system integration due to their specific manufacturing processes.Conversely,metal oxide diodes,with their simple fabrication techniques,offer advantages for system integration.The oxygen vacancy defect of oxide semiconductor will greatly affect the electrical performance of the device,so the performance of the diode can be effectively controlled by adjusting the oxygen vacancy concentration.This study centers on optimizing the performance of diodes by modulating the oxygen vacancy concentration within InGaZnO films through control of oxygen flows during the sputtering process.Experimental results demonstrate that the diode exhibits a forward current density of 43.82 A·cm^(−2),with a rectification ratio of 6.94×10^(4),efficiently rectifying input sine signals with 1 kHz frequency and 5 V magnitude.These results demonstrate its potential in energy conversion and management.By adjusting the oxygen vacancy,a methodology is provided for optimizing the performance of rectifying diodes.展开更多
BACKGROUND The development of slow transit constipation(STC)is associated with intestinal barrier damage.Huangqi decoction(HQD)is effective in treating STC,but me-chanisms are unclear.AIM To investigate whether HQD al...BACKGROUND The development of slow transit constipation(STC)is associated with intestinal barrier damage.Huangqi decoction(HQD)is effective in treating STC,but me-chanisms are unclear.AIM To investigate whether HQD alleviates STC by downregulating the nuclear factorκB(NF-κB)signaling pathway and restoring intestinal barrier function.METHODS KM mice were divided into control,model,and HQD treatment groups.Fresh colonic tissues were collected for single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial tra-nscriptome sequencing.The expressions of claudin-1,mucin 2,and NF-κB P65 proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry.In vitro experiments evaluated the effects of HQD on the LS174T cell line.RESULTS HQD improved intestinal motility,restored mucosal epithelium function and morphology.Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptome sequencing data showed a reduction in goblet cells,decreased mucin 2 secretion,and activated apoptotic pathways in STC mice.The population of intestinal stem cells was reduced,and proliferation along with Wnt/β-catenin pathways were inhibited.STC also altered the distribution of intestinal cell states,increasing immune-associated Enterocyte_C3.Aberrant NF-κB pathway activation was noted across various cell types.After HQD treatment,NF-κB pathway activity was down-regulated,while cell proliferation pathways were up-regulated,alongside an increase in Enterocyte_C1 related to material transport.Immunocytochemical,Western blot,and immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed NF-κB pathway activation in goblet cells of STC mice,with HQD inhibiting this aberrant activation.CONCLUSION STC involves intestinal mucosal barrier damage.HQD may treat STC by suppressing NF-κB signaling in epithelial cells,restoring intestinal epithelial cell function,and promoting mucosal barrier repair.展开更多
Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mecha...Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying post-cardiac arrest brain injury have hindered the development of effective neuroprotective strategies.Previous studies primarily focused on neuronal death,potentially overlooking the contributions of non-neuronal cells and intercellular communication to the pathophysiology of cardiac arrest-induced brain injury.To address these gaps,we hypothesized that single-cell transcriptomic analysis could uncover previously unidentified cellular subpopulations,altered cell communication networks,and novel molecular mechanisms involved in post-cardiac arrest brain injury.In this study,we performed a single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampus from pigs with ventricular fibrillation-induced cardiac arrest at 6 and 24 hours following the return of spontaneous circulation,and from sham control pigs.Sequencing results revealed changes in the proportions of different cell types,suggesting post-arrest disruption in the blood-brain barrier and infiltration of neutrophils.These results were validated through western blotting,quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence staining.We also identified and validated a unique subcluster of activated microglia with high expression of S100A8,which increased over time following cardiac arrest.This subcluster simultaneously exhibited significant M1/M2 polarization and expressed key functional genes related to chemokines and interleukins.Additionally,we revealed the post-cardiac arrest dysfunction of oligodendrocytes and the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into oligodendrocytes.Cell communication analysis identified enhanced post-cardiac arrest communication between neutrophils and microglia that was mediated by neutrophil-derived resistin,driving pro-inflammatory microglial polarization.Our findings provide a comprehensive single-cell map of the post-cardiac arrest hippocampus,offering potential novel targets for neuroprotection and repair following cardiac arrest.展开更多
The pathophysiology of ischemic stroke is complex and multifactorial,involving various forms of cell death such as apoptosis,autophagy,and necrosis.A recent study suggests that oxidative and inflammatory stress can in...The pathophysiology of ischemic stroke is complex and multifactorial,involving various forms of cell death such as apoptosis,autophagy,and necrosis.A recent study suggests that oxidative and inflammatory stress can induce ferroptosis,a specialized form of cell death characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides dependent on intracellular iron overload(Li and Jia,2023).展开更多
Although poly(lactic acid)(PLA)is a good environmentally-friendly bio-degradable polymer which is used to substitute traditional petrochemical-based polymer packaging films,the barrier properties of PLA films are stil...Although poly(lactic acid)(PLA)is a good environmentally-friendly bio-degradable polymer which is used to substitute traditional petrochemical-based polymer packaging films,the barrier properties of PLA films are still insufficient for high-barrier packaging applications.In this study,oxygen scavenger hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene(HTPB)and cobalt salt catalyst were incorporated into the PLA/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)(PLA/PBAT),followed by melting extrusion and three-layer co-extrusion blown film process to prepare the composite films.The oxygen permeability coefficient of the composite film combined with 6 wt%oxygen scavenger and 0.4 wt%catalyst was decreased significantly from 377.00 cc·mil·m^(-2)·day^(-1)·0.1 MPa^(-1) to 0.98 cc·mil·m^(-2)·day^(-1)·0.1 MPa^(-1),showing a remarkable enhancement of 384.69 times compared with the PLA/PBAT composite film.Meanwhile,the degradation behavior of the composite film was also accelerated,exhibiting a mass loss of nearly 60%of the original mass after seven days of degradation in an alkaline environment,whereas PLA/PBAT composite film only showed a mass loss of 32%.This work has successfully prepared PLA/PBAT composite films with simultaneously improved oxygen barrier property and degradation behavior,which has great potential for high-demanding green chemistry packaging industries,including food,agricultural,and military packaging.展开更多
Insect-derived traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)constitutes an essential component of TCM,with the earliest records found in“52 Bingfang”(Prescriptions of fifty-two diseases,which is one of the earliest Chinese medi...Insect-derived traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)constitutes an essential component of TCM,with the earliest records found in“52 Bingfang”(Prescriptions of fifty-two diseases,which is one of the earliest Chinese medical prescriptions).展开更多
This article discusses the recent study written by Koizumi et al.Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality,which is driven by complex mechanisms,including lipid acc...This article discusses the recent study written by Koizumi et al.Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality,which is driven by complex mechanisms,including lipid accumulation,apoptosis,and inflammatory responses exacerbated by gut barrier dysfunction.The study explored the therapeutic potential of elafibranor,a dual peroxisome proliferatoractivated receptor alpha/delta agonist.In clinical trials,elafibranor has shown promise for the treatment of other liver conditions;however,its effects on ALD remain unclear.The authors’findings indicate that elafibranor significantly reduced liver fibrosis and enhanced gut barrier integrity in patients with ALD.These positive effects of elafibranor are mediated through multiple pathways.Elafibranor promotes lipid metabolism,reduces oxidative stress,and inhibits inflammatory responses by restoring gut barrier function.Specifically,it improves hepatocyte function by enhancing autophagic and antioxidant capacity,and it mitigates inflammation by suppressing the lipopolysaccharide/toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway.These findings indicate that elafibranor has promising clinical applications.In addition,the study highlights elafibranor’s potential as a therapeutic agent for liver diseases,particularly ALD.This article underscores the importance of understanding the mechanistic pathways underlying ALD and suggests directions for future research aimed at elucidating the benefits and limitations of elafibranor.展开更多
The functional and structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier is crucial in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment;however,the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of the bloo...The functional and structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier is crucial in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment;however,the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of the blood-brain barrier remain poorly understood.The major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A has been identified as a key regulator of blood-brain barrier function.It plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the formation and functional stability of the blood-brain barrier,in addition to the transport of lipids,such as docosahexaenoic acid,across the blood-brain barrier.Furthermore,an increasing number of studies have suggested that major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A is involved in the molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in a variety of neurological diseases;however,little is known regarding the mechanisms by which major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A affects the blood-brain barrier.This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the close relationship between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins and the blood-brain barrier,including their basic structures and functions,cross-linking between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A and the blood-brain barrier,and the in-depth studies on lipid transport and the regulation of blood-brain barrier permeability.This comprehensive systematic review contributes to an in-depth understanding of the important role of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins in maintaining the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the research progress to date.This will not only help to elucidate the pathogenesis of neurological diseases,improve the accuracy of laboratory diagnosis,and optimize clinical treatment strategies,but it may also play an important role in prognostic monitoring.In addition,the effects of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A on blood-brain barrier leakage in various diseases and the research progress on cross-blood-brain barrier drug delivery are summarized.This review may contribute to the development of new approaches for the treatment of neurological diseases.展开更多
Objective:To understand the facilitators and barriers for frail kidney transplant recipients(KTRs)practicing Baduanjin,and to provide a theoretical basis for developing intervention strategies.Subjects and Methods:Sem...Objective:To understand the facilitators and barriers for frail kidney transplant recipients(KTRs)practicing Baduanjin,and to provide a theoretical basis for developing intervention strategies.Subjects and Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 frail KTRs who participated in a 3-month Baduanjin practice.The Colaizzi seven-step analysis method was used to analyze,summarize,and extract themes from the interview data.Results:Two themes were extracted:facilitators and barriers.Facilitators included intrinsic motivation and perceived benefits,while barriers included conflicts with practice time,worsening physical condition,lack of immediate benefits,and difficulty integrating into daily life.Conclusion:The practice of Baduanjin by frail KTRs is influenced by various factors.Healthcare professionals should develop personalized intervention plans that take into account these factors and the needs of the patients.展开更多
Objective:When the skin is exposed to external stimuli such as ultraviolet radiation,it can lead to dryness and sensitivity,highlighting the importance of skincare.Maintaining skin homeostasis for healthy complexion r...Objective:When the skin is exposed to external stimuli such as ultraviolet radiation,it can lead to dryness and sensitivity,highlighting the importance of skincare.Maintaining skin homeostasis for healthy complexion requires not only controlling the inflammatory response,but also protecting the skin barrier.The study aimed to explore the potential of fermented oats(FO)as an innovative ingredient in skin care products,focusing on its capacity to alleviate inflammation and repair the skin barrier.Methods:The present study aimed to characterize the active composition and skin care effects of FO,which underwent enzymatic hydrolysis followed by fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae.To evaluate the antiinflammatory properties of FO,we performed experiments to inhibit TNF-α/TNFR1 binding,nitric oxide(NO)release in RAW264.7 macrophage cells and neutrophil aggregation in zebrafish embryos.Additionally,the study evaluated the secretion of inflammatory factors,skin barrier function and moisturizing effects using a UVBirradiated skin model as a surrogate for photodamaged skin.Results:This study reveals that the fermentation process involving Saccharomyces cerevisiae significantly enhances amino acids and their derivatives in FO.Specifically,β-glucan,total protein,and flavonoids in FO increased by 14.78%,39.13%,and 600%,respectively.FO achieved a 79.87%inhibition rate of TNF-α/TNFR1 binding.It also reduced lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced NO release in RAW264.7 cells and inhibited neutrophil recruitment in zebrafish embryos.In a capsaicin(CAP)-stimulated skin model,3.5%FO suppressed TRPV1 expression.In a UVB-irradiated 3D skin model,FO decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1α,IL-6,COX2,NF-κB)and significantly upregulated loricrin(128.57%),filaggrin(336.36%),transglutaminase 1(70.97%),and caspase-14(217.65%).Additionally,FO enhanced moisturizing efficacy by increasing skin moisture content and AQP3 levels.Conclusion:As a novel fermentation ingredient,FO inhibits the expression of inflammatory factors,improves skin tissue morphology,and enhances hydration,achieving multi-faceted soothing and repairing effects.These findings suggest that Saccharomyces cerevisiae-fermented oat extracts hold promise as an innovative ingredient with anti-inflammatory and skin-protective benefits.展开更多
Objectives To investigate the barriers and facilitators influencing the sustainable implementation of evidence-based practice(EBP)for Peristomal Irritant Contact Dermatitis(PICD)based on the Consolidated Framework for...Objectives To investigate the barriers and facilitators influencing the sustainable implementation of evidence-based practice(EBP)for Peristomal Irritant Contact Dermatitis(PICD)based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research(CFIR).Methods The sample consisted of 17 nurses from three urology wards at a tertiary hospital in Beijing,China,who had participated in the EBP.Guided by the CFIR,we identified constructs influencing the sustainability of implementation by conducting a directed content analysis of the 17 individual in-depth interviews.By rating,the valence and magnitude of each construct were determined.Results This study identified 19 factors across the five domains of the CFIR.Among these determinants,16 were identified as barriers,while three were recognized as facilitators.Common barriers across different contexts were identified,such as delayed evidence updating,the complexity of intervention components and steps,and incompatibility between the implementation process and clinical practices.In contrast,facilitators of intervention implementation were regular communication and feedback,support and drive from principals and a positive cultural atmosphere.In addition,we identified“regular evidence updating”as an independent construct outside of the CFIR,a finding that will provide key information for updating the CFIR framework.Conclusions Regular evidence updating is crucial for the sustainability of EBP implementation.Researchers should receive consistent feedback from practitioners and adjust or modify the EBP as necessary.Additionally,researchers must consider the compatibility or adaptability of the EBP’s content with clinical practice in formulating it rather than adding additional complexity to the original workflow.展开更多
Liver transplantation is a vital intervention for patients with end-stage liver disease;however,the Arab world faces significant barriers that hinder access to this life-saving procedure in terms of both practice and ...Liver transplantation is a vital intervention for patients with end-stage liver disease;however,the Arab world faces significant barriers that hinder access to this life-saving procedure in terms of both practice and research.This narrative review explores the multifaceted challenges,including financial constraints,limited healthcare infrastructure,cultural factors,and the prevalence of infectious diseases.In the Arab countries,both culture and religion were found to play major roles in the acceptability of liver transplantation.High rates of misconceptions and financial strain on patients and healthcare systems necessitate more transplantation programs and improved financial coverage and insurance policies.Enhancing healthcare facilities and improving access to innovative technologies through research is essential for optimizing transplantation outcomes,considering that common diseases in the region decrease the donor pool and increase complication risks.Public health initiatives to prevent and control prevalent liver diseases,particularly hepatitis,and to manage infection risk are also critical.Stricter regulations should be enforced in less developed countries in the region along with early screening practices to address inherited blood disorders and infectious diseases.Additionally,targeted research on liver diseases specific to the Arab context is crucial,along with fostering dialogue about cultural,religious,economic,and health-related factors affecting donor and recipient eligibility.By tackling these complex barriers through targeted comprehensive strategies,the Arab world can advance to a more equitable and effective liver transplantation system,ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.展开更多
Mastitis is a common disease that affects women during lactation,posing a threat to the health of both mothers and infants.Recent studies have shown that insufficient nutrient intake increase the risk of mastitis.Phlo...Mastitis is a common disease that affects women during lactation,posing a threat to the health of both mothers and infants.Recent studies have shown that insufficient nutrient intake increase the risk of mastitis.Phlorizin(PHZ)is one of the nutrients present in apples.This study uses lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced mastitis mice and LPS+ATP-stimulated mouse mammary epithelial cells(mMECs)as research objects to explore the effect and mechanism of PHZ on mastitis.Different from in vitro beliefs,our findings demonstrated that PHZ significantly reduced inflammation and protected the blood-milk barrier(BMB)in vivo.Additionally,we observed that oral administration of PHZ regulated the intestinal flora and exhibited prebiotic functions.However,the anti-inflammatory effect of PHZ was not solely dependent on the intestinal flora,as antibiotic disruption of the intestinal flora does not completely abolish the improvement of mastitis by PHZ.Further mechanistic research revealed that the anti-inflammatory properties of PHZ were attributed to its metabolism into phloretin(PHT).Moreover,our results demonstrated that PHT reduced inflammation and protected the BMB by promoting autophagy to prevent the pyroptosis of mMECs.This study provides a theoretical basis for reducing inflammation in lactating women by consuming fruits,such as apples,that contain PHZ.展开更多
BACKGROUNDLimited research exists on attitudes and barriers to organ donation in the UnitedArab Emirates, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of public perceptionsand challenges.AIMTo assess the attitudes...BACKGROUNDLimited research exists on attitudes and barriers to organ donation in the UnitedArab Emirates, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of public perceptionsand challenges.AIMTo assess the attitudes and barriers toward organ donation.METHODSA cross-sectional study was adopted and included 607 samples consisting ofstudents, faculty, and staff who were selected from three universities in Ajmanand who had signed consent forms. A validated self-administered questionnairethat included 13 attitudes and 14 barrier items was used as a tool. The reliabilityof the tool was 0.89 (Cronbach's alpha). In the analysis of attitude scores, responseswere rated on a scale from 0 to 4, with 0 representing 'strongly disagree'and 4 representing 'strongly agree' for supportive attitudes towards organdonation. Participants with a total attitude score of 39 or higher indicated agreementor strong agreement with all items, reflecting a generally supportiveattitude toward organ donation. Lower scores suggested that the respondent wasneutral or disagreed with one or more items, indicating a less supportive attitudetoward organ donation. Knowledge about organ donation was assessed by selfadministeredquestionnaire that included 13 items. Analysis was done using SPSSversion 29. χ2 was used to assess associations between variables.RESULTSMost participants were young (≤ 30 years old, 83.7%), female (79.2%), from World Health Organization Eastern Mediterranean Region countries (69.5%), Muslim (82.4%), students (80.6%), single(83.9%), and from a nursing college (33.1%). The majority had no personal or family history of organ donation(93.2% and 93.9%, respectively). Supportive attitudes toward organ donation were significantly associated withreligion (P = 0.003), working status (P = 0.009), university (P = 0.019), and knowledge (P < 0.001). Additionally,those with a personal or family history of organ donation were significantly more supportive (56.8% vs 33.3%, P =0.004). Lack of awareness was the most reported barrier for organ donation (64.1%) followed by being afraid oforgan donation due to medical procedures required (51.9%).CONCLUSIONThe findings suggest that supportive attitudes toward organ donation are influenced by demographic factors,personal experiences, and knowledge levels. Lack of awareness and fear of medical procedures were the mostreported barriers to organ donation. These results highlight the need for targeted educational programs to increaseawareness and promote positive attitudes toward organ donation.展开更多
Lactobacillus species have excellent abilities to reduce intestinal inflammation and enhance gut barrier function.This study elucidated the potential mechanisms through which Lactobacillus mitigates lipopolysaccharide...Lactobacillus species have excellent abilities to reduce intestinal inflammation and enhance gut barrier function.This study elucidated the potential mechanisms through which Lactobacillus mitigates lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced intestinal injury from the perspective of macrophage-intestinal epithelial cell interactions.Lactobacillus intervention improved the histopathological score;elevated ZO-1 and Occludin protein production;reduced CD16^(+)cell numbers;diminished IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-αlevels;decreased inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)expression;increased CD163^(+)cell numbers;elevated IL-10 concentration;and increased arginase-1(Arg1)expression in LPS-challenged piglets.Lactobacillus pretreatment also altered the colonic microbiota,thereby increasing the butyric acid concentration and GPR43 expression in the LPS-challenged piglets.Compared with those in the LPS group,sodium butyrate(SB)pretreatment decreased IL-1β,IL-6 and TNF-αsecretion and iNOS expression but increased IL-10 secretion and Arg1 expression in macrophages.The SB-pretreated macrophages reduced the protein expression of TLR4,MyD88,and phosphorylated NF-κB p65 but increased the protein expression of ZO-1 and Occludin in intestinal epithelial cells.Moreover,GLPG0974 blocked the beneficial effects of SB on macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells.This study demonstrated that Lactobacillus improves intestinal barrier function by regulating the macrophage phenotype through the control of butyric acid and GPR43 levels to further control inflammation.展开更多
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFA1800100and 2024YFF1206600)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32100664)the Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province(2024B1515040019 and 2022A1515012042).
文摘Inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)comprises a heterogeneous group of chronic inflammatory conditions of the intestine.Current therapeutic strategies primarily focus on maintaining remission and mitigating the secondary effects rather than reversing its pathogenic mechanisms(Jeong et al.,2019).The pathogenesis of IBD involves intestinal barrier dysfunction,tissue damage,and dysregulated innate and adaptive immune responses(de Souza et al.,2017).Elevated neutrophil activity has been reported in IBD(Danne et al.,2024),yet the precise roles and mechanisms of neutrophils in disease progression remain to be elucidated.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos. 32260196 (to JY), 81860646 (to ZY) and 31860274 (to JY)a grant from Yunnan Department of Science and Technology,Nos. 202101AT070251 (to JY), 202201AS070084 (to ZY), 202301AY070001-239 (to JY), 202101AZ070001-012, and 2019FI016 (to ZY)。
文摘Studies have shown that chitosan protects against neurodegenerative diseases. However, the precise mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, we administered chitosan intragastrically to an MPTP-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease and found that it effectively reduced dopamine neuron injury, neurotransmitter dopamine release, and motor symptoms. These neuroprotective effects of chitosan were related to bacterial metabolites, specifically shortchain fatty acids, and chitosan administration altered intestinal microbial diversity and decreased short-chain fatty acid production in the gut. Furthermore, chitosan effectively reduced damage to the intestinal barrier and the blood–brain barrier. Finally, we demonstrated that chitosan improved intestinal barrier function and alleviated inflammation in both the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system by reducing acetate levels. Based on these findings, we suggest a molecular mechanism by which chitosan decreases inflammation through reducing acetate levels and repairing the intestinal and blood–brain barriers, thereby alleviating symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
基金supported by the grants from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness(SAF2017-85602-R)the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation(PID2020-119638RB-I00 to EGR)FPU-program(FPU17/02616 to JCG)。
文摘The blood–brain barrier constitutes a dynamic and interactive boundary separating the central nervous system and the peripheral circulation.It tightly modulates the ion transport and nutrient influx,while restricting the entry of harmful factors,and selectively limiting the migration of immune cells,thereby maintaining brain homeostasis.Despite the well-established association between blood–brain barrier disruption and most neurodegenerative/neuroinflammatory diseases,much remains unknown about the factors influencing its physiology and the mechanisms underlying its breakdown.Moreover,the role of blood–brain barrier breakdown in the translational failure underlying therapies for brain disorders is just starting to be understood.This review aims to revisit this concept of“blood–brain barrier breakdown,”delving into the most controversial aspects,prevalent challenges,and knowledge gaps concerning the lack of blood–brain barrier integrity.By moving beyond the oversimplistic dichotomy of an“open”/“bad”or a“closed”/“good”barrier,our objective is to provide a more comprehensive insight into blood–brain barrier dynamics,to identify novel targets and/or therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating blood–brain barrier dysfunction.Furthermore,in this review,we advocate for considering the diverse time-and location-dependent alterations in the blood–brain barrier,which go beyond tight-junction disruption or brain endothelial cell breakdown,illustrated through the dynamics of ischemic stroke as a case study.Through this exploration,we seek to underscore the complexity of blood–brain barrier dysfunction and its implications for the pathogenesis and therapy of brain diseases.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.8227050826(to PL)Tianjin Science and Technology Bureau Foundation,No.20201194(to PL)Tianjin Graduate Research and Innovation Project,No.2022BKY174(to CW).
文摘Cerebral edema caused by blood-brain barrier injury after intracerebral hemorrhage is an important factor leading to poor prognosis.Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cell exosomes(hiPSC-NSC-Exos)have shown potential for brain injury repair in central nervous system diseases.In this study,we explored the impact of hiPSC-NSC-Exos on blood-brain barrier preservation and the underlying mechanism.Our results indicated that intranasal delivery of hiPSC-NSC-Exos mitigated neurological deficits,enhanced blood-brain barrier integrity,and reduced leukocyte infiltration in a mouse model of intracerebral hemorrhage.Additionally,hiPSC-NSC-Exos decreased immune cell infiltration,activated astrocytes,and decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines like monocyte chemoattractant protein-1,macrophage inflammatory protein-1α,and tumor necrosis factor-αpost-intracerebral hemorrhage,thereby improving the inflammatory microenvironment.RNA sequencing indicated that hiPSC-NSC-Exo activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in astrocytes and decreased monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 secretion,thereby improving blood-brain barrier integrity.Treatment with the PI3K/AKT inhibitor LY294002 or the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 neutralizing agent C1142 abolished these effects.In summary,our findings suggest that hiPSC-NSC-Exos maintains blood-brain barrier integrity,in part by downregulating monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 secretion through activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in astrocytes.
文摘Rectifying circuit,as a crucial component for converting alternating current into direct current,plays a pivotal role in energy harvesting microsystems.Traditional silicon-based or germanium-based rectifier diodes hinder system integration due to their specific manufacturing processes.Conversely,metal oxide diodes,with their simple fabrication techniques,offer advantages for system integration.The oxygen vacancy defect of oxide semiconductor will greatly affect the electrical performance of the device,so the performance of the diode can be effectively controlled by adjusting the oxygen vacancy concentration.This study centers on optimizing the performance of diodes by modulating the oxygen vacancy concentration within InGaZnO films through control of oxygen flows during the sputtering process.Experimental results demonstrate that the diode exhibits a forward current density of 43.82 A·cm^(−2),with a rectification ratio of 6.94×10^(4),efficiently rectifying input sine signals with 1 kHz frequency and 5 V magnitude.These results demonstrate its potential in energy conversion and management.By adjusting the oxygen vacancy,a methodology is provided for optimizing the performance of rectifying diodes.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province for Distinguished Young Scholars,No.2022B1515020003the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82174369,No.82405397,No.82374442,and No.81973847+2 种基金Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF No.GZC20233247National Key Clinical Disciplineand the Program of Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases,No.2020B1111170004.
文摘BACKGROUND The development of slow transit constipation(STC)is associated with intestinal barrier damage.Huangqi decoction(HQD)is effective in treating STC,but me-chanisms are unclear.AIM To investigate whether HQD alleviates STC by downregulating the nuclear factorκB(NF-κB)signaling pathway and restoring intestinal barrier function.METHODS KM mice were divided into control,model,and HQD treatment groups.Fresh colonic tissues were collected for single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial tra-nscriptome sequencing.The expressions of claudin-1,mucin 2,and NF-κB P65 proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry.In vitro experiments evaluated the effects of HQD on the LS174T cell line.RESULTS HQD improved intestinal motility,restored mucosal epithelium function and morphology.Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptome sequencing data showed a reduction in goblet cells,decreased mucin 2 secretion,and activated apoptotic pathways in STC mice.The population of intestinal stem cells was reduced,and proliferation along with Wnt/β-catenin pathways were inhibited.STC also altered the distribution of intestinal cell states,increasing immune-associated Enterocyte_C3.Aberrant NF-κB pathway activation was noted across various cell types.After HQD treatment,NF-κB pathway activity was down-regulated,while cell proliferation pathways were up-regulated,alongside an increase in Enterocyte_C1 related to material transport.Immunocytochemical,Western blot,and immunohistochemistry analyses confirmed NF-κB pathway activation in goblet cells of STC mice,with HQD inhibiting this aberrant activation.CONCLUSION STC involves intestinal mucosal barrier damage.HQD may treat STC by suppressing NF-κB signaling in epithelial cells,restoring intestinal epithelial cell function,and promoting mucosal barrier repair.
基金supported by the National Science Foundation of China,Nos.82325031(to FX),82030059(to YC),82102290(to YG),U23A20485(to YC)Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project,No.2023ZD0505504(to FX),2023ZD0505500(to YC)the Key R&D Program of Shandong Province,No.2022ZLGX03(to YC).
文摘Global brain ischemia and neurological deficit are consequences of cardiac arrest that lead to high mortality.Despite advancements in resuscitation science,our limited understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying post-cardiac arrest brain injury have hindered the development of effective neuroprotective strategies.Previous studies primarily focused on neuronal death,potentially overlooking the contributions of non-neuronal cells and intercellular communication to the pathophysiology of cardiac arrest-induced brain injury.To address these gaps,we hypothesized that single-cell transcriptomic analysis could uncover previously unidentified cellular subpopulations,altered cell communication networks,and novel molecular mechanisms involved in post-cardiac arrest brain injury.In this study,we performed a single-cell transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampus from pigs with ventricular fibrillation-induced cardiac arrest at 6 and 24 hours following the return of spontaneous circulation,and from sham control pigs.Sequencing results revealed changes in the proportions of different cell types,suggesting post-arrest disruption in the blood-brain barrier and infiltration of neutrophils.These results were validated through western blotting,quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction,and immunofluorescence staining.We also identified and validated a unique subcluster of activated microglia with high expression of S100A8,which increased over time following cardiac arrest.This subcluster simultaneously exhibited significant M1/M2 polarization and expressed key functional genes related to chemokines and interleukins.Additionally,we revealed the post-cardiac arrest dysfunction of oligodendrocytes and the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells into oligodendrocytes.Cell communication analysis identified enhanced post-cardiac arrest communication between neutrophils and microglia that was mediated by neutrophil-derived resistin,driving pro-inflammatory microglial polarization.Our findings provide a comprehensive single-cell map of the post-cardiac arrest hippocampus,offering potential novel targets for neuroprotection and repair following cardiac arrest.
文摘The pathophysiology of ischemic stroke is complex and multifactorial,involving various forms of cell death such as apoptosis,autophagy,and necrosis.A recent study suggests that oxidative and inflammatory stress can induce ferroptosis,a specialized form of cell death characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides dependent on intracellular iron overload(Li and Jia,2023).
基金financial support of this work by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.22378332,52003219)the Open Fund of Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics(No.2022FE008)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Ningbo(NO.2022J058)Ministry of Industry and Information Technology high quality development project(TC220A04A-206).
文摘Although poly(lactic acid)(PLA)is a good environmentally-friendly bio-degradable polymer which is used to substitute traditional petrochemical-based polymer packaging films,the barrier properties of PLA films are still insufficient for high-barrier packaging applications.In this study,oxygen scavenger hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene(HTPB)and cobalt salt catalyst were incorporated into the PLA/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)(PLA/PBAT),followed by melting extrusion and three-layer co-extrusion blown film process to prepare the composite films.The oxygen permeability coefficient of the composite film combined with 6 wt%oxygen scavenger and 0.4 wt%catalyst was decreased significantly from 377.00 cc·mil·m^(-2)·day^(-1)·0.1 MPa^(-1) to 0.98 cc·mil·m^(-2)·day^(-1)·0.1 MPa^(-1),showing a remarkable enhancement of 384.69 times compared with the PLA/PBAT composite film.Meanwhile,the degradation behavior of the composite film was also accelerated,exhibiting a mass loss of nearly 60%of the original mass after seven days of degradation in an alkaline environment,whereas PLA/PBAT composite film only showed a mass loss of 32%.This work has successfully prepared PLA/PBAT composite films with simultaneously improved oxygen barrier property and degradation behavior,which has great potential for high-demanding green chemistry packaging industries,including food,agricultural,and military packaging.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.:82222068,82070423,82270348,and 82173779)the Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Pro-gram of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,China(Grant No:ZYYCXTD-D-202206)+1 种基金Fujian Province Science and Technology Project,China(Grant Nos.:2021J01420479,2021J02058,2022J011374,and 2022J02057)Fundamental Research Funds for the Chinese Central Universities,China(Grant No.:20720230070).
文摘Insect-derived traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)constitutes an essential component of TCM,with the earliest records found in“52 Bingfang”(Prescriptions of fifty-two diseases,which is one of the earliest Chinese medical prescriptions).
文摘This article discusses the recent study written by Koizumi et al.Alcohol-associated liver disease(ALD)is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality,which is driven by complex mechanisms,including lipid accumulation,apoptosis,and inflammatory responses exacerbated by gut barrier dysfunction.The study explored the therapeutic potential of elafibranor,a dual peroxisome proliferatoractivated receptor alpha/delta agonist.In clinical trials,elafibranor has shown promise for the treatment of other liver conditions;however,its effects on ALD remain unclear.The authors’findings indicate that elafibranor significantly reduced liver fibrosis and enhanced gut barrier integrity in patients with ALD.These positive effects of elafibranor are mediated through multiple pathways.Elafibranor promotes lipid metabolism,reduces oxidative stress,and inhibits inflammatory responses by restoring gut barrier function.Specifically,it improves hepatocyte function by enhancing autophagic and antioxidant capacity,and it mitigates inflammation by suppressing the lipopolysaccharide/toll-like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway.These findings indicate that elafibranor has promising clinical applications.In addition,the study highlights elafibranor’s potential as a therapeutic agent for liver diseases,particularly ALD.This article underscores the importance of understanding the mechanistic pathways underlying ALD and suggests directions for future research aimed at elucidating the benefits and limitations of elafibranor.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82104412(to TD)Shaanxi Provincial Key R&D Program,No.2023-YBSF-165(to TD)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Department of Science and Technology,No.2018JM7022(to FM)Shaanxi Provincial Key Industry Chain Project,No.2021ZDLSF04-11(to PW)。
文摘The functional and structural integrity of the blood-brain barrier is crucial in maintaining homeostasis in the brain microenvironment;however,the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of the blood-brain barrier remain poorly understood.The major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A has been identified as a key regulator of blood-brain barrier function.It plays a critical role in promoting and maintaining the formation and functional stability of the blood-brain barrier,in addition to the transport of lipids,such as docosahexaenoic acid,across the blood-brain barrier.Furthermore,an increasing number of studies have suggested that major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A is involved in the molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in a variety of neurological diseases;however,little is known regarding the mechanisms by which major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A affects the blood-brain barrier.This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the close relationship between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins and the blood-brain barrier,including their basic structures and functions,cross-linking between major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A and the blood-brain barrier,and the in-depth studies on lipid transport and the regulation of blood-brain barrier permeability.This comprehensive systematic review contributes to an in-depth understanding of the important role of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A proteins in maintaining the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier and the research progress to date.This will not only help to elucidate the pathogenesis of neurological diseases,improve the accuracy of laboratory diagnosis,and optimize clinical treatment strategies,but it may also play an important role in prognostic monitoring.In addition,the effects of major facilitator superfamily domain containing 2A on blood-brain barrier leakage in various diseases and the research progress on cross-blood-brain barrier drug delivery are summarized.This review may contribute to the development of new approaches for the treatment of neurological diseases.
基金funded by the General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82072553)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2022-JYB-JBZR-026).
文摘Objective:To understand the facilitators and barriers for frail kidney transplant recipients(KTRs)practicing Baduanjin,and to provide a theoretical basis for developing intervention strategies.Subjects and Methods:Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 frail KTRs who participated in a 3-month Baduanjin practice.The Colaizzi seven-step analysis method was used to analyze,summarize,and extract themes from the interview data.Results:Two themes were extracted:facilitators and barriers.Facilitators included intrinsic motivation and perceived benefits,while barriers included conflicts with practice time,worsening physical condition,lack of immediate benefits,and difficulty integrating into daily life.Conclusion:The practice of Baduanjin by frail KTRs is influenced by various factors.Healthcare professionals should develop personalized intervention plans that take into account these factors and the needs of the patients.
文摘Objective:When the skin is exposed to external stimuli such as ultraviolet radiation,it can lead to dryness and sensitivity,highlighting the importance of skincare.Maintaining skin homeostasis for healthy complexion requires not only controlling the inflammatory response,but also protecting the skin barrier.The study aimed to explore the potential of fermented oats(FO)as an innovative ingredient in skin care products,focusing on its capacity to alleviate inflammation and repair the skin barrier.Methods:The present study aimed to characterize the active composition and skin care effects of FO,which underwent enzymatic hydrolysis followed by fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae.To evaluate the antiinflammatory properties of FO,we performed experiments to inhibit TNF-α/TNFR1 binding,nitric oxide(NO)release in RAW264.7 macrophage cells and neutrophil aggregation in zebrafish embryos.Additionally,the study evaluated the secretion of inflammatory factors,skin barrier function and moisturizing effects using a UVBirradiated skin model as a surrogate for photodamaged skin.Results:This study reveals that the fermentation process involving Saccharomyces cerevisiae significantly enhances amino acids and their derivatives in FO.Specifically,β-glucan,total protein,and flavonoids in FO increased by 14.78%,39.13%,and 600%,respectively.FO achieved a 79.87%inhibition rate of TNF-α/TNFR1 binding.It also reduced lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced NO release in RAW264.7 cells and inhibited neutrophil recruitment in zebrafish embryos.In a capsaicin(CAP)-stimulated skin model,3.5%FO suppressed TRPV1 expression.In a UVB-irradiated 3D skin model,FO decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1α,IL-6,COX2,NF-κB)and significantly upregulated loricrin(128.57%),filaggrin(336.36%),transglutaminase 1(70.97%),and caspase-14(217.65%).Additionally,FO enhanced moisturizing efficacy by increasing skin moisture content and AQP3 levels.Conclusion:As a novel fermentation ingredient,FO inhibits the expression of inflammatory factors,improves skin tissue morphology,and enhances hydration,achieving multi-faceted soothing and repairing effects.These findings suggest that Saccharomyces cerevisiae-fermented oat extracts hold promise as an innovative ingredient with anti-inflammatory and skin-protective benefits.
基金supported by the Peking University Nursing Discipline Research Development Fund(No.TYZH2023001)。
文摘Objectives To investigate the barriers and facilitators influencing the sustainable implementation of evidence-based practice(EBP)for Peristomal Irritant Contact Dermatitis(PICD)based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research(CFIR).Methods The sample consisted of 17 nurses from three urology wards at a tertiary hospital in Beijing,China,who had participated in the EBP.Guided by the CFIR,we identified constructs influencing the sustainability of implementation by conducting a directed content analysis of the 17 individual in-depth interviews.By rating,the valence and magnitude of each construct were determined.Results This study identified 19 factors across the five domains of the CFIR.Among these determinants,16 were identified as barriers,while three were recognized as facilitators.Common barriers across different contexts were identified,such as delayed evidence updating,the complexity of intervention components and steps,and incompatibility between the implementation process and clinical practices.In contrast,facilitators of intervention implementation were regular communication and feedback,support and drive from principals and a positive cultural atmosphere.In addition,we identified“regular evidence updating”as an independent construct outside of the CFIR,a finding that will provide key information for updating the CFIR framework.Conclusions Regular evidence updating is crucial for the sustainability of EBP implementation.Researchers should receive consistent feedback from practitioners and adjust or modify the EBP as necessary.Additionally,researchers must consider the compatibility or adaptability of the EBP’s content with clinical practice in formulating it rather than adding additional complexity to the original workflow.
文摘Liver transplantation is a vital intervention for patients with end-stage liver disease;however,the Arab world faces significant barriers that hinder access to this life-saving procedure in terms of both practice and research.This narrative review explores the multifaceted challenges,including financial constraints,limited healthcare infrastructure,cultural factors,and the prevalence of infectious diseases.In the Arab countries,both culture and religion were found to play major roles in the acceptability of liver transplantation.High rates of misconceptions and financial strain on patients and healthcare systems necessitate more transplantation programs and improved financial coverage and insurance policies.Enhancing healthcare facilities and improving access to innovative technologies through research is essential for optimizing transplantation outcomes,considering that common diseases in the region decrease the donor pool and increase complication risks.Public health initiatives to prevent and control prevalent liver diseases,particularly hepatitis,and to manage infection risk are also critical.Stricter regulations should be enforced in less developed countries in the region along with early screening practices to address inherited blood disorders and infectious diseases.Additionally,targeted research on liver diseases specific to the Arab context is crucial,along with fostering dialogue about cultural,religious,economic,and health-related factors affecting donor and recipient eligibility.By tackling these complex barriers through targeted comprehensive strategies,the Arab world can advance to a more equitable and effective liver transplantation system,ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(32272955,32172807)。
文摘Mastitis is a common disease that affects women during lactation,posing a threat to the health of both mothers and infants.Recent studies have shown that insufficient nutrient intake increase the risk of mastitis.Phlorizin(PHZ)is one of the nutrients present in apples.This study uses lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced mastitis mice and LPS+ATP-stimulated mouse mammary epithelial cells(mMECs)as research objects to explore the effect and mechanism of PHZ on mastitis.Different from in vitro beliefs,our findings demonstrated that PHZ significantly reduced inflammation and protected the blood-milk barrier(BMB)in vivo.Additionally,we observed that oral administration of PHZ regulated the intestinal flora and exhibited prebiotic functions.However,the anti-inflammatory effect of PHZ was not solely dependent on the intestinal flora,as antibiotic disruption of the intestinal flora does not completely abolish the improvement of mastitis by PHZ.Further mechanistic research revealed that the anti-inflammatory properties of PHZ were attributed to its metabolism into phloretin(PHT).Moreover,our results demonstrated that PHT reduced inflammation and protected the BMB by promoting autophagy to prevent the pyroptosis of mMECs.This study provides a theoretical basis for reducing inflammation in lactating women by consuming fruits,such as apples,that contain PHZ.
文摘BACKGROUNDLimited research exists on attitudes and barriers to organ donation in the UnitedArab Emirates, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of public perceptionsand challenges.AIMTo assess the attitudes and barriers toward organ donation.METHODSA cross-sectional study was adopted and included 607 samples consisting ofstudents, faculty, and staff who were selected from three universities in Ajmanand who had signed consent forms. A validated self-administered questionnairethat included 13 attitudes and 14 barrier items was used as a tool. The reliabilityof the tool was 0.89 (Cronbach's alpha). In the analysis of attitude scores, responseswere rated on a scale from 0 to 4, with 0 representing 'strongly disagree'and 4 representing 'strongly agree' for supportive attitudes towards organdonation. Participants with a total attitude score of 39 or higher indicated agreementor strong agreement with all items, reflecting a generally supportiveattitude toward organ donation. Lower scores suggested that the respondent wasneutral or disagreed with one or more items, indicating a less supportive attitudetoward organ donation. Knowledge about organ donation was assessed by selfadministeredquestionnaire that included 13 items. Analysis was done using SPSSversion 29. χ2 was used to assess associations between variables.RESULTSMost participants were young (≤ 30 years old, 83.7%), female (79.2%), from World Health Organization Eastern Mediterranean Region countries (69.5%), Muslim (82.4%), students (80.6%), single(83.9%), and from a nursing college (33.1%). The majority had no personal or family history of organ donation(93.2% and 93.9%, respectively). Supportive attitudes toward organ donation were significantly associated withreligion (P = 0.003), working status (P = 0.009), university (P = 0.019), and knowledge (P < 0.001). Additionally,those with a personal or family history of organ donation were significantly more supportive (56.8% vs 33.3%, P =0.004). Lack of awareness was the most reported barrier for organ donation (64.1%) followed by being afraid oforgan donation due to medical procedures required (51.9%).CONCLUSIONThe findings suggest that supportive attitudes toward organ donation are influenced by demographic factors,personal experiences, and knowledge levels. Lack of awareness and fear of medical procedures were the mostreported barriers to organ donation. These results highlight the need for targeted educational programs to increaseawareness and promote positive attitudes toward organ donation.
基金supported by the National Nature Science Foundation of China(32272898)the National Key Research and Development Program(2021YFA0805904)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2662020DKQD004).
文摘Lactobacillus species have excellent abilities to reduce intestinal inflammation and enhance gut barrier function.This study elucidated the potential mechanisms through which Lactobacillus mitigates lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced intestinal injury from the perspective of macrophage-intestinal epithelial cell interactions.Lactobacillus intervention improved the histopathological score;elevated ZO-1 and Occludin protein production;reduced CD16^(+)cell numbers;diminished IL-1β,IL-6,and TNF-αlevels;decreased inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)expression;increased CD163^(+)cell numbers;elevated IL-10 concentration;and increased arginase-1(Arg1)expression in LPS-challenged piglets.Lactobacillus pretreatment also altered the colonic microbiota,thereby increasing the butyric acid concentration and GPR43 expression in the LPS-challenged piglets.Compared with those in the LPS group,sodium butyrate(SB)pretreatment decreased IL-1β,IL-6 and TNF-αsecretion and iNOS expression but increased IL-10 secretion and Arg1 expression in macrophages.The SB-pretreated macrophages reduced the protein expression of TLR4,MyD88,and phosphorylated NF-κB p65 but increased the protein expression of ZO-1 and Occludin in intestinal epithelial cells.Moreover,GLPG0974 blocked the beneficial effects of SB on macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells.This study demonstrated that Lactobacillus improves intestinal barrier function by regulating the macrophage phenotype through the control of butyric acid and GPR43 levels to further control inflammation.
