The analysis of the ejaculate,better known as spermiogram,represents the first and main step to identify whether a series of sperm quality parameters are within the norm and therefore are consistent with normal sperm ...The analysis of the ejaculate,better known as spermiogram,represents the first and main step to identify whether a series of sperm quality parameters are within the norm and therefore are consistent with normal sperm fertilizing capacity.Among these,sperm concentration and motility are the first parameters to be evaluated through an estimation carried out by expert examiners.展开更多
According to the World Health Organization(WHO)manual,sperm concentration should be measured using an improved Neubauer hemocytometer,while sperm motility should be measured by manual assessment.However,in China,thous...According to the World Health Organization(WHO)manual,sperm concentration should be measured using an improved Neubauer hemocytometer,while sperm motility should be measured by manual assessment.However,in China,thousands of laboratories do not use the improved Neubauer hemocytometer or method;instead,the Makler counting chamber is one of the most widely used chambers.To study sources of error that could impact the measurement of the apparent concentration and motility of sperm using the Makler counting chamber and to verify its accuracy for clinical application,67 semen samples from patients attending the Department of Andrology,West China Second University Hospital,Sichuan University(Chengdu,China)between 13 September 2023 and 27 September 2023,were included.Compared with applying the cover glass immediately,delaying the application of the cover glass for 5 s,10 s,and 30 s resulted in average increases in the sperm concentration of 30.3%,74.1%,and 107.5%,respectively(all P<0.0001)and in the progressive motility(PR)of 17.7%,30.8%,and 39.6%,respectively(all P<0.0001).However,when the semen specimens were fixed with formaldehyde,a delay in the application of the cover glass for 5 s,10 s,and 30 s resulted in an average increase in the sperm concentration of 6.7%,10.8%,and 14.6%,respectively,compared with immediate application of the cover glass.The accumulation of motile sperm due to delays in the application of the cover glass is a significant source of error with the Makler counting chamber and should be avoided.展开更多
Intrauterine insemination with donor sperm(IUI-D)is an assisted reproductive technology(ART)offered to couples with definitive male infertility or risk of genetic disease transmission.Here,we sought to evaluate our pr...Intrauterine insemination with donor sperm(IUI-D)is an assisted reproductive technology(ART)offered to couples with definitive male infertility or risk of genetic disease transmission.Here,we sought to evaluate our practice in IUI-D and identify factors that influenced the success rate.We performed a retrospective,single-center study of all IUI-D procedures performed at Lille University Medical Center(Lille,France)between January 1,2007,and December 31,2017.Single and multivariate analyses with a mixed logistic model were used to identify factors associated with clinical pregnancies and live births.We included 322 couples and 1179 IUI-D procedures.The clinical pregnancy rate was 23.5%,and the live birth rate was 18.9%per IUI-D.In a multivariate analysis,the women’s age was negatively associated with the live birth rate.The number of motile spermatozoa inseminated was the only factor associated with both clinical pregnancies and live births,with a chosen threshold of 0.75 million.The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were,respectively,17.3%and 13.0%below the number of motile spermatozoa inseminated threshold and 25.9%and 21.0%at or above the threshold(all P=0.005).The number of motile spermatozoa inseminated was the only factor that significantly influenced both pregnancies and live-birth rates after IUI-D.Indeed,below a threshold of 0.75 million motile spermatozoa inseminated,those rates were significantly lower.Application of this number of motile spermatozoa inseminated threshold may help centers to allocate donations more effectively while maintaining reasonable waiting times for patients.展开更多
The current article investigates the impact of the bioconvection in an unsteady flow of magnetized Cross nanofluid with gyrotactic microorganisms and activation energy over a linearly stretched configuration.The analy...The current article investigates the impact of the bioconvection in an unsteady flow of magnetized Cross nanofluid with gyrotactic microorganisms and activation energy over a linearly stretched configuration.The analysis has been performed by utilizing the realistic Wu's slip boundary and zero mass flux conditions.The effects of nonlinear thermal radiation and the activation energy are also addressed.The governing flow equations are deduced to a dimensionless form by considering suitable transformations which are numerically targeted via a shooting algorithm.The physical visualization of each physical parameter governing the flow problem has been displayed graphically for distribution of velocity,temperature,concentration and motile microorganisms.The numerical treatment for the variation of skin friction coefficient,local Nusselt number,local Sherwood number and motile density number is performed in tabular forms.展开更多
Oxidative stress(OS)is detri me ntal to sperm fun ctio ns,and the oxidation reductio n pote ntial(ORP)is a good measure of OS as it considers the balance betwee n oxidants and reducta nts.Total motile sperm count(TMSC...Oxidative stress(OS)is detri me ntal to sperm fun ctio ns,and the oxidation reductio n pote ntial(ORP)is a good measure of OS as it considers the balance betwee n oxidants and reducta nts.Total motile sperm count(TMSC)is viewed as the single most im porta nt semen analysis parameter that can predict male infertility severity,and its correlation with ORP has never been undertaken.The objectives of this study were to assess the correlation between ORP and TMSC,to identify the ORP cutoff value based on the TMSC result,and to compare this cutoff value with previously reported ORP cutoff values in literature.One thousand one hundred and sixty-eight infertile patients and 100 fertile controls were enrolled.Demographic and semen data of the participants were retrieved and analyzed.Wilcox on's rank-sum test compared variables betwee n infertile men and fertile controls;Spearman's correlation assessed the static ORP(sORP)-TMSC relationship for the whole sample and among each group individually.Using a 20×10^6TMSC threshold,receiver operator characteristic(ROC)analysis determined the sORP cutoff associated with the highest predictive values.TMSC was significantly negatively correlated with sORP across all participants(r=0.86,P<0.001),among infertile patients(r=0.729,P<0.001),and among fertile controls(r=0.53,P<0.001).A 20-million TMSC threshold determined an sORP cutoff value of 2.34 mV/106sperm/ml to be associated with 82.9%sensitivity,82.8%specificity,91.5%positive predictive value(PPV),68.5%negative predictive value(NPV),and 82.9%overall accuracy.Compared with previously reported cutoff values in searched literature,the 2.34 mV/10^6sperm/ml cutoff value identified in our study yielded the highest overall diagnostic accuracy in the evaluation of in fertile men.展开更多
Infertility is often cited as one of the causes of a declining birthrate, which has become a serious social problem in recent years. Processes by which motile sperm can be safely and easily sorted are therefore import...Infertility is often cited as one of the causes of a declining birthrate, which has become a serious social problem in recent years. Processes by which motile sperm can be safely and easily sorted are therefore important for infertility treatment. Therefore, as a new sorting method, microfluidic sperm sorter using the microfluidic system has been developed. To improve more separation efficiency of this device, it is necessary to know the behaviors of motile sperm in the microchannel where the sperm undergo shear flow. The previous study implied the necessity of the modeling of motile sperm in the shear flow. In the present study, therefore, we experimentally investigated the behavior of the motile sperm in the Taylor-Couette flow using PTV (Particle Tracking Velocimetry) method. The experimental results showed that the ascent of the shear stress led to the increase in the sperm velocity, and the direction of the sperm velocity was opposite to that of the flow.展开更多
Bioconvection plays an inevitable role in introducing sustainable and environment-friendly fuel cell technologies.Bio-mathematical modelling of such designs needs continuous refinements to achieve strong agreements in...Bioconvection plays an inevitable role in introducing sustainable and environment-friendly fuel cell technologies.Bio-mathematical modelling of such designs needs continuous refinements to achieve strong agreements in experimental and computational results.Actually,microorganisms transport a miscellaneous palette of ingredients in manufacturing industrial goods particularly in fertilizer industries.Heat transfer characteristics of molecular structure are measured by a physical phenomenon which is allied with the transpiration of heat within matter.Motivated by bioinspired fuel cells involved in near-surface flow phenomena,in the present article,we examine the transverse swimming of motile gyrotactic microorganisms numerically in a rheological Jeffery fluid near a stretching wall.The leading physical model is converted in a nonlinear system of ODEs through proper similarity alterations.A numerical technique called shooting method with R-K Fehlberg is applied via mathematical software and graphical presentations are obtained.The influence of all relative physical constraints on velocity,temperature,concentration,and volume fraction of gyrotactic microorganisms is expressed geometrically.It is found that heat and mass flux at the surface as well as density of motile microorganism’s declines for Brownian motion and thermophoresis parameter.Comparison in tabular form is made with existing literature to validate the results for limiting cases with convective boundary conditions.展开更多
Dear Editor,Historically,dipeptidyl peptidase 4(DPP4),found in alveolar regions,has been recognized as the primary receptor for several merbecoviruses like MERS-CoV(Meyerholz et al.,2016).However,angiotensin-convertin...Dear Editor,Historically,dipeptidyl peptidase 4(DPP4),found in alveolar regions,has been recognized as the primary receptor for several merbecoviruses like MERS-CoV(Meyerholz et al.,2016).However,angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2),highly expressed in the motile cilia of human airway epithelial cells(Sungnak et al.,2020),has been identified as the functional receptor for sarbecoviruses(e.g.,SARS-CoV-2,SARS-CoV)and setracoviruses(e.g.,HCoV-NL63).Recent studies have shown that some bat-circulating MERS-related coronaviruses(MERSr-CoVs),such as MOW15-22,PnNL2018B and HKU5,can use ACE2 to enter cells(Ma et al.,2025;Park et al.,2025).Even more worrying is that one novel bat-infecting merbecovirus HKU5-CoV lineage 2(BtHKU5-CoV-2)has been reported to use human ACE2 as a cell entry receptor(Chen et al.,2025).These ACE2-utilizing merbecoviruses expand the diversity,geographic distribution,and transmission potential of coronaviruses,posing a significant threat of spillover to humans.If an ACE2-utilizing MERSr-CoV acquire the high lethality of MERS-CoV and the high transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 using ACE2 as a receptor,it could trigger a global pandemic with catastrophic consequences for humanity.Therefore,it is essential to evaluate serological cross-reactivity in sera from SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals against ACE2-using MERSr-CoVs,and urgent to develop preventive vaccines and pan-coronavirus antivirals confront the potential threat(Jiang and Wu,2025).展开更多
Varicocele is a prevalent condition in the infertile male population.However,to date,which patients may benefit most from varicocele repair is still a matter of debate.The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether...Varicocele is a prevalent condition in the infertile male population.However,to date,which patients may benefit most from varicocele repair is still a matter of debate.The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether certain preintervention sperm parameters are predictive of successful varicocele repair,defined as an improvement in total motile sperm count(TMSC).We performed a retrospective study on 111 patients with varicocele who had undergone varicocele repair,collected from the Department of Endocrinology,Metabolic Diseases and Nutrition,University of Catania(Catania,Italy),and the Unit of Urology at the Selcuk University School of Medicine(Konya,Türkiye).The predictive analysis was conducted through the use of the Brain Project,an innovative tool that allows a complete and totally unbiased search of mathematical expressions that relate the object of study to the various parameters available.Varicocele repair was considered successful when TMSC increased by at least 50% of the preintervention value.For patients with preintervention TMSC below 5×10^(6),improvement was considered clinically relevant when the increase exceeded 50% and the absolute TMSC value was>5×10^(6).From the preintervention TMSC alone,we found a model that predicts patients who appear to benefit little from varicocele repair with a sensitivity of 50.0% and a specificity of 81.8%.Varicocele grade and serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels did not play a predictive role,but it should be noted that all patients enrolled in this study were selected with intermediate-or high-grade varicocele and normal FSH levels.In conclusion,preintervention TMSC is predictive of the success of varicocele repair in terms of TMSC improvement in patients with intermediate-or high-grade varicoceles and normal FSH levels.展开更多
BACKGROUND Simulated microgravity environment can lead to gastrointestinal motility disturbance.The pathogenesis of gastrointestinal motility disorders is closely related to the stem cell factor(SCF)/c-kit signaling p...BACKGROUND Simulated microgravity environment can lead to gastrointestinal motility disturbance.The pathogenesis of gastrointestinal motility disorders is closely related to the stem cell factor(SCF)/c-kit signaling pathway associated with intestinal flora and Cajal stromal cells.Moreover,intestinal flora can also affect the regulation of SCF/c-kit signaling pathway,thus affecting the expression of Cajal stromal cells.Cajal cells are the pacemakers of gastrointestinal motility.AIM To investigate the effects of Bifidobacterium lactis(B.lactis)BLa80 on the intestinal flora of rats in simulated microgravity and on the gastrointestinal motility-related SCF/c-kit pathway.METHODS The internationally recognized tail suspension animal model was used to simulate the microgravity environment,and 30 rats were randomly divided into control group,tail suspension group and drug administration tail suspension group with 10 rats in each group for a total of 28 days.The tail group was given B.lactis BLa80 by intragastric administration,and the other two groups were given water intragastric administration,the concentration of intragastric administration was 0.1 g/mL,and each rat was 1 mL/day.Hematoxylin&eosin staining was used to observe the histopathological changes in each segment of the intestine of each group,and the expression levels of SCF,c-kit,extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK)and p-ERK in the gastric antrum of each group were detected by Western blotting and PCR.The fecal flora and mucosal flora of rats in each group were detected by 16S rRNA.RESULTS Simulated microgravity resulted in severe exfoliation of villi of duodenum,jejunum and ileum in rats,marked damage,increased space between villi,loose arrangement,shortened columnar epithelium of colon,less folds,narrower mucosal thickness,reduced goblet cell number and crypts,and significant improvement after probiotic intervention.Simulated microgravity reduced the expressions of SCF and c-kit,and increased the expressions of ERK and P-ERK in the gastric antrum of rats.However,after probiotic intervention,the expressions of SCF and ckit were increased,while the expressions of ERK and P-ERK were decreased,with statistical significance(P<0.05).In addition,simulated microgravity can reduce the operational taxonomic unit(OTU)of the overall intestinal flora of rats,B.lactis BLa80 can increase the OTU of rats,simulated microgravity can reduce the overall richness and diversity of stool flora of rats,increase the abundance of firmicutes in stool flora of rats,and reduce the abundance of Bacteroides in stool flora of rats,most of which are mainly beneficial bacteria.Simulated microgravity can increase the overall richness and diversity of mucosal flora,increase the abundance of Bacteroides and Desulphurides in the rat mucosal flora,and decrease the abundance of firmicutes,most of which are proteobacteria.After probiotics intervention,the overall Bacteroidetes trend in simulated microgravity rats was increased.CONCLUSION B.lactis BLa80 can ameliorate intestinal mucosal injury,regulate intestinal flora,inhibit ERK expression,and activate the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway,which may have a facilitating effect on gastrointestinal motility in simulated microgravity rats.展开更多
[Objectives]To investigate the effects of Visceral Manipulation combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery on postoperative recovery in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery,and to evaluate its impacts on in...[Objectives]To investigate the effects of Visceral Manipulation combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery on postoperative recovery in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery,and to evaluate its impacts on inflammatory stress response,gastrointestinal motility recovery,and blood oxygen levels.[Methods]A prospective randomized controlled design was adopted.Eighty patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected and randomly divided into an observation group(40 cases)and a control group(40 cases).The observation group received Visceral Manipulation therapy in addition to routine Enhanced Recovery after Surgery care,while the control group received only routine Enhanced Recovery after Surgery care.Clinical indicators,inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-6,hs-CRP),traumatic stress hormones(cortisol,epinephrine,norepinephrine),gastrointestinal motility indicators(GAS,MTL,GIP),and blood oxygen levels were measured and compared between the two groups on postoperative days 1,5,and 10.[Results]The observation group showed significantly better outcomes in postoperative abdominal distension,time to first flatus and defecation,and hospital stay compared to the control group(P<0.05).Inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-6,hs-CRP),traumatic stress hormones(cortisol,epinephrine,norepinephrine),and gastrointestinal motility indicators(GAS,MTL,GIP)were significantly improved in the observation group(P<0.05).Postoperative blood oxygen levels were also significantly higher in the observation group(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Visceral Manipulation combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery can significantly improve postoperative recovery in gastrointestinal surgery patients,alleviate inflammatory stress responses,promote gastrointestinal functional recovery,and enhance blood oxygen levels,demonstrating promising clinical application prospects.展开更多
Postoperative ileus(POI)remains a prevalent and significant challenge following abdominal surgeries,precipitating patient distress,prolonged hospital stays,and escalated medical expenditures.Conventionally addressed v...Postoperative ileus(POI)remains a prevalent and significant challenge following abdominal surgeries,precipitating patient distress,prolonged hospital stays,and escalated medical expenditures.Conventionally addressed via pharmacological interventions,POI is increasingly being explored through adjunctive therapeutic strategies,with acupuncture gaining recognition as a promising option.Acupuncture has demonstrated encouraging potential in promoting gastrointestinal motility in patients with POI.Moreover,recent research has shed light on the therapeutic mechanisms underlying its efficacy.This article aims to present a comprehensive overview of acupuncture as a treatment for POI,highlighting advancements in clinical research and recent elucidations of its mechanistic underpinnings.It aspires to contribute a pivotal reference point for scholars and enthusiasts keen on garnering a deeper understanding of acupuncture’s role in managing POI.展开更多
Moringa oleifera have laxative effects,but their active compositions and mechanisms are not very clear thus far.To this end,we systematically explored the active components and mechanism of M.oleifera leaves in reliev...Moringa oleifera have laxative effects,but their active compositions and mechanisms are not very clear thus far.To this end,we systematically explored the active components and mechanism of M.oleifera leaves in relieving constipation by using the slow transit constipation(STC)mouse model and network pharmacology.The results of animal experiments showed that M.oleifera aqueous extract(MOA)had good laxative activity,and its 70%alcohol soluble part(ASP)also showed significant laxative activity(P<0.01).Network pharmacological prediction results suggested that L-phenylalanine(Phe)was the key compound of ASP,and it might relieve constipation through tachykinin receptor 1(TACR1)and three kinds of adrenergic receptors,includingα_(1A)(ADRA1A),α_(2A)(ADRA2A),andα_(2B)(ADRA2B).Further animal experiment results showed that Phe significantly promoted gastrointestinal motility.Phe may relieve STC by enhancing the release of substance P(SP)and upregulating the m RNA expression of TACR1 in the ileum.Importantly,Phe may also promote intestinal movement by downregulating the m RNA expression of ADRA2A and ADRA2B and upregulating the m RNA expression of Calm and the m RNA and protein expression of myosin light chain 9 in the ileum,thereby activating the G protein-coupled receptor-myosin light chain signaling pathway.These results lay a foundation for the application of M.oleifera and Phe in constipation.展开更多
Salmonellosis represents a global epidemic,and the emergence of extensively drug-resistant(XDR)Salmonella and its sustained transmission worldwide constitutes a significant public health concern.Flagellum-mediated mot...Salmonellosis represents a global epidemic,and the emergence of extensively drug-resistant(XDR)Salmonella and its sustained transmission worldwide constitutes a significant public health concern.Flagellum-mediated motility serves as a crucial virulence trait of Salmonella that guides the pathogen toward the epithelial surface,enhancing gut colonization.Artemisia argyit essential oil,a traditional herb extract,demonstrates efficacy in treating inflammationrelated symptoms and diseases;however,its effects on flagellum assembly and expression mechanisms in anti-Salmonella activity remain inadequately explored.This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which Artemisia argyit essential oil addresses Salmonella infections.Network pharmacological analysis revealed that Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Artemisia argyit exhibited anti-Salmonella infection potential and inhibited flagellum-dependent motility.The application of Artemisia argyit essential oil induced notable motility defects through the downregulation of flagellar and fimbriae expression.Moreover,it significantly reduced Salmonella-infected cell damage by interfering with flagellum-mediated Salmonella colonization.In vivo studies demonstrated that Artemisia argyit essential oil administration effectively alleviated Salmonella infection symptoms by reducing bacterial loads,inhibiting interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β),IL-6,and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)production,and diminishing pathological injury.Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)analysis identified forty-three compounds in Artemisia argyit essential oil,with their corresponding targets and active ingredients predicted.Investigation of an in vivo model of Salmonella infection using the active ingredient demonstrated that alpha-cedrene ameliorated Salmonella infection.These findings suggest the potential application of Artemisia argyit essential oil in controlling Salmonella,the predominant food-borne pathogen.展开更多
Gallstone disease(cholelithiasis)is a common gastrointestinal(GI)disorder characterized by the accumulation of hardened bile constituents,often leading to complications such as cholecystitis,cholangitis,and pancreatit...Gallstone disease(cholelithiasis)is a common gastrointestinal(GI)disorder characterized by the accumulation of hardened bile constituents,often leading to complications such as cholecystitis,cholangitis,and pancreatitis.Most gallstones are cholesterol-based and form due to bile supersaturation,gallbladder dysm-otility,and inflammation.Current treatment options–such as ursodeoxycholic acid,laparoscopic cholecystectomy,and dietary modifications–have limitations including invasiveness,prolonged duration,side effects,and recurrence risk.Melatonin,a hormone secreted by the pineal gland,has gained attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,as well as its regulatory effects on lipid metabolism and gallbladder motility.Experimental studies suggest that melatonin reduces biliary cholesterol,suppresses oxidative stress,and restores gallbladder muscle function,thereby preventing gallstone formation.It is also present in bile and shown to enhance cholesterol conversion into bile acids and inhibit intestinal cholesterol absorption.Beyond gallstone prevention,melatonin demonstrates protective effects against GI malignancies,including hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma,by regulating mitochondrial function,inhibiting glycolysis,and modulating apoptosis.With a strong safety profile and minimal side effects,melatonin may serve as a promising adjunct or alternative for gallstone management,particularly in patients unfit for surgery.Further clin-ical research is warranted to validate its therapeutic role.展开更多
BACKGROUND The pathophysiology behind gastroesophageal reflux disease and its association with poor outcomes after lung transplantation is incompletely understood.The physiologic impact of lung transplantation on pulm...BACKGROUND The pathophysiology behind gastroesophageal reflux disease and its association with poor outcomes after lung transplantation is incompletely understood.The physiologic impact of lung transplantation on pulmonary function,intrathoracic pressures,and vagal innervation may affect esophageal motility,bolus clearance and reflux risk.However,the effect of changes in esophageal function after lung transplantation on the risk of poor post-transplant outcomes remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the association between change in esophageal motility pre-/post-lung transplantation and rejection outcome.METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of lung transplant recipients who underwent both pre-and post-transplant esophageal testing including high resolution manometry(HRM)at a tertiary center.Acute cellular rejection(ACR)was defined histologically per International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria.Univariate analyses were performed using student’s t-test,χ2 test,and Spearman’s correlation where appropriate.Multivariable time-to-event analysis using Cox proportional hazards model was applied.Subjects not meeting ACR outcome were censored at death or date of last clinic visit.RESULTS 55 subjects(65%men,mean age:61,median follow-up:840 days)were included,with 17 (31%) experiencing ACR. Increase in failed swallows correlated with lower baseline total lung capacity(TLC) (R = -0.32, P = 0.05) and decreased post-transplant esophageal bolus clearance (R = -0.45, P = 0.004). Onmultivariable analysis, post-transplant hypomotility independently predicted increased ACR (HR: 3.62, 95%CI:1.11-11.8;P = 0.03). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated increased ACR for subjects with increased vs unchangedfailed swallows post-transplant (P = 0.048). On Cox regression, a 20% elevated risk of ACR was found for every10% increase in failed swallows, after controlling for confounders including reflux severityCONCLUSIONEsophageal hypomotility, specifically an increase in failed swallows on HRM, from pre- to post-lungtransplantation was independently associated with ACR. Additionally, lower baseline TLC correlated with increasein failed swallows, suggesting restrictive lung disease may be associated with post-transplant esophagealhypomotility. Lung transplantation may affect esophageal function and contribute to rejection outcomes. Routineesophageal function testing may help identify patients at higher risk for poor lung transplantation outcomes.展开更多
BACKGROUND Pseudoachalasia mimics primary achalasia in symptoms and diagnostic findings,as observed in gastroscopy and barium swallow studies.However,pseudoachalasia,often associated with malignancies like metastatic ...BACKGROUND Pseudoachalasia mimics primary achalasia in symptoms and diagnostic findings,as observed in gastroscopy and barium swallow studies.However,pseudoachalasia,often associated with malignancies like metastatic breast cancer,requires prompt differentiation to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.This report highlights a rare case of pseudoachalasia secondary to metastatic breast cancer and highlights the diagnostic value of esophageal motility changes.CASE SUMMARY A 52-year-old woman presented with a one-year history of intermittent dysphagia following breast cancer surgery.Initial examinations suggested achalasia,but the patient’s high-resolution manometry(HRM)results showed a rapid shift from ineffective esophageal motility to type Ⅱ achalasia within four months.Further investigations revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma of the cardia,originating from the breast.CONCLUSION In patients with a history of malignancy,rapidly evolving esophageal motility abnormalities should raise suspicion of pseudoachalasia.HRM plays a crucial role in differentiating between primary and secondary achalasia.Early diagnosis through advanced imaging and pathology is essential for proper management.展开更多
Objective Abnormal gastrointestinal motility plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia(FD).Although electroacupuncture(EA)has demonstrated efficacy in FD treatment,its precise mechanism remains ...Objective Abnormal gastrointestinal motility plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia(FD).Although electroacupuncture(EA)has demonstrated efficacy in FD treatment,its precise mechanism remains unclear.This study aimed to elucidate the specific mechanism through which EA improves gastrointestinal motility in FD.Methods Physiological indices,including body weight,food intake,gastrointestinal motility,and gastrointestinal morphology,were utilized to assess the FD model in rats.EA interventions were applied at meridian points,as well as non-meridian points and non-acupoints,in FD model rats.The effects of EA at zusanli(ST36)and taichong(LR3)on gastrointestinal motility in FD model rats were elucidated using gastrointestinal motility test indices.Techniques such as Western blotting,quantitative real-time PCR,and immunofluorescence were employed to determine the specific mechanisms by which EA improved gastrointestinal motility in FD model rats.Results Multifactorial stress intervention could be used to effectively establish an FD rat model.EA at ST36 and LR3 significantly improved gastrointestinal motility.Furthermore,EA at ST36 and LR3 upregulated the protein expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor(GDNF),GDNF family receptor alpha 1(GFRα1),phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K),and protein kinase B(Akt),along with their mRNA expression levels and the number of enteric glial cells(EGCs).Conclusions EA was capable of increasing the number of EGCs by activating the GDNF/GFRα1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway,thereby improving gastrointestinal motility in FD.展开更多
BACKGROUND Although limited clinical evidence exists,such as case reports of azoospermia treatment in humans using bone marrow aspirate concentrate(BMAC)injection,these findings provide a compelling foundation for exp...BACKGROUND Although limited clinical evidence exists,such as case reports of azoospermia treatment in humans using bone marrow aspirate concentrate(BMAC)injection,these findings provide a compelling foundation for exploring mesenchymal stem cell therapy in male infertility.AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous BMAC injection into human testis for men with severe oligospermia or azoospermia over the existing standard of care pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications.METHODS We included patients diagnosed with male infertility of the age group between 35–45 years in this trial comparing BMAC injection therapy with pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications over a 6-month follow-up period.Semen analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy of the interventions analyzed.RESULTS We enrolled 30 patients in the trial with 10 patients in each arm of the trial.Compared to the baseline,neither the BMAC group(P=0.139)or pharmacotherapy group(P=0.056)nor the lifestyle modification group(P=0.112)demonstrated a statistically significant increase in sperm count at 6 months.However,the BMAC group demonstrated a significant increase in sperm count(mean 19.2 million;P=0.001)compared to the pharmacotherapy group(mean 3.5 million)and lifestyle modification group(mean 2.2 million)at 6 months.Significant improvement was noted in the motility grade(P<0.001)only in the BMAC group while no changes were noted in the other groups.CONCLUSION This trial highlights the potential of autologous BMAC as a promising therapeutic option for male infertility.Despite the absence of significant changes within individual treatment arms,BMAC therapy demonstrated superior efficacy in improving both sperm count and motility compared to standard pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications.These findings underscore the potential role of regenerative medicine in addressing severe oligospermia and azoospermia,warranting further research to solidify its clinical applicability.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the specific mechanism of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) in the regulation of human sperm apoptosis, and to provide a new theoretical reference and scientific basis for the diagno...Objective: To investigate the specific mechanism of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) in the regulation of human sperm apoptosis, and to provide a new theoretical reference and scientific basis for the diagnosis and treatment of asthenospermia and other related conditions. Methods: Semen samples were categorized into the normal group and asthenospermia group based on sperm motility criteria. HIF-1α interfering agent cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and guanylate cyclase activator (Lificiguat, YC-1) were added respectively, with a control group established accordingly. Sperm motility (using anterior viability rate as an index), apoptosis level, ATP level, mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level were measured. The expression levels of HIF-1α, p-PI3K, and Bcl-2 in the samples were analyzed using Western blotting. Results: Following CoCl2 treatment, there was a significant increase in sperm apoptosis compared to the normal control group (12.51% ± 2.50% VS 11.15% ± 2.42%);additionally, sperm motility (45.34% ± 3.37% VS 51.36% ± 11.68%), ATP production (11.51 ± 2.87 nM/µL VS 14.99 ± 2.83 nM/µL), ROS levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential all decreased significantly (all P α and p-PI3K increased significantly while Bcl-2 expression decreased (all P α in the YC-1 treatment group were decreased, and the expression level of Bcl-2 was increased (all P α can influence human sperm apoptosis and motility through the PI3K signaling pathway.展开更多
文摘The analysis of the ejaculate,better known as spermiogram,represents the first and main step to identify whether a series of sperm quality parameters are within the norm and therefore are consistent with normal sperm fertilizing capacity.Among these,sperm concentration and motility are the first parameters to be evaluated through an estimation carried out by expert examiners.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32171264 and No.81974226)the Sichuan Science and Technology Program(2023NSFSC1609)。
文摘According to the World Health Organization(WHO)manual,sperm concentration should be measured using an improved Neubauer hemocytometer,while sperm motility should be measured by manual assessment.However,in China,thousands of laboratories do not use the improved Neubauer hemocytometer or method;instead,the Makler counting chamber is one of the most widely used chambers.To study sources of error that could impact the measurement of the apparent concentration and motility of sperm using the Makler counting chamber and to verify its accuracy for clinical application,67 semen samples from patients attending the Department of Andrology,West China Second University Hospital,Sichuan University(Chengdu,China)between 13 September 2023 and 27 September 2023,were included.Compared with applying the cover glass immediately,delaying the application of the cover glass for 5 s,10 s,and 30 s resulted in average increases in the sperm concentration of 30.3%,74.1%,and 107.5%,respectively(all P<0.0001)and in the progressive motility(PR)of 17.7%,30.8%,and 39.6%,respectively(all P<0.0001).However,when the semen specimens were fixed with formaldehyde,a delay in the application of the cover glass for 5 s,10 s,and 30 s resulted in an average increase in the sperm concentration of 6.7%,10.8%,and 14.6%,respectively,compared with immediate application of the cover glass.The accumulation of motile sperm due to delays in the application of the cover glass is a significant source of error with the Makler counting chamber and should be avoided.
文摘Intrauterine insemination with donor sperm(IUI-D)is an assisted reproductive technology(ART)offered to couples with definitive male infertility or risk of genetic disease transmission.Here,we sought to evaluate our practice in IUI-D and identify factors that influenced the success rate.We performed a retrospective,single-center study of all IUI-D procedures performed at Lille University Medical Center(Lille,France)between January 1,2007,and December 31,2017.Single and multivariate analyses with a mixed logistic model were used to identify factors associated with clinical pregnancies and live births.We included 322 couples and 1179 IUI-D procedures.The clinical pregnancy rate was 23.5%,and the live birth rate was 18.9%per IUI-D.In a multivariate analysis,the women’s age was negatively associated with the live birth rate.The number of motile spermatozoa inseminated was the only factor associated with both clinical pregnancies and live births,with a chosen threshold of 0.75 million.The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were,respectively,17.3%and 13.0%below the number of motile spermatozoa inseminated threshold and 25.9%and 21.0%at or above the threshold(all P=0.005).The number of motile spermatozoa inseminated was the only factor that significantly influenced both pregnancies and live-birth rates after IUI-D.Indeed,below a threshold of 0.75 million motile spermatozoa inseminated,those rates were significantly lower.Application of this number of motile spermatozoa inseminated threshold may help centers to allocate donations more effectively while maintaining reasonable waiting times for patients.
基金the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through Research Groups Program under grant number(R.G.P.2/66/40)。
文摘The current article investigates the impact of the bioconvection in an unsteady flow of magnetized Cross nanofluid with gyrotactic microorganisms and activation energy over a linearly stretched configuration.The analysis has been performed by utilizing the realistic Wu's slip boundary and zero mass flux conditions.The effects of nonlinear thermal radiation and the activation energy are also addressed.The governing flow equations are deduced to a dimensionless form by considering suitable transformations which are numerically targeted via a shooting algorithm.The physical visualization of each physical parameter governing the flow problem has been displayed graphically for distribution of velocity,temperature,concentration and motile microorganisms.The numerical treatment for the variation of skin friction coefficient,local Nusselt number,local Sherwood number and motile density number is performed in tabular forms.
文摘Oxidative stress(OS)is detri me ntal to sperm fun ctio ns,and the oxidation reductio n pote ntial(ORP)is a good measure of OS as it considers the balance betwee n oxidants and reducta nts.Total motile sperm count(TMSC)is viewed as the single most im porta nt semen analysis parameter that can predict male infertility severity,and its correlation with ORP has never been undertaken.The objectives of this study were to assess the correlation between ORP and TMSC,to identify the ORP cutoff value based on the TMSC result,and to compare this cutoff value with previously reported ORP cutoff values in literature.One thousand one hundred and sixty-eight infertile patients and 100 fertile controls were enrolled.Demographic and semen data of the participants were retrieved and analyzed.Wilcox on's rank-sum test compared variables betwee n infertile men and fertile controls;Spearman's correlation assessed the static ORP(sORP)-TMSC relationship for the whole sample and among each group individually.Using a 20×10^6TMSC threshold,receiver operator characteristic(ROC)analysis determined the sORP cutoff associated with the highest predictive values.TMSC was significantly negatively correlated with sORP across all participants(r=0.86,P<0.001),among infertile patients(r=0.729,P<0.001),and among fertile controls(r=0.53,P<0.001).A 20-million TMSC threshold determined an sORP cutoff value of 2.34 mV/106sperm/ml to be associated with 82.9%sensitivity,82.8%specificity,91.5%positive predictive value(PPV),68.5%negative predictive value(NPV),and 82.9%overall accuracy.Compared with previously reported cutoff values in searched literature,the 2.34 mV/10^6sperm/ml cutoff value identified in our study yielded the highest overall diagnostic accuracy in the evaluation of in fertile men.
文摘Infertility is often cited as one of the causes of a declining birthrate, which has become a serious social problem in recent years. Processes by which motile sperm can be safely and easily sorted are therefore important for infertility treatment. Therefore, as a new sorting method, microfluidic sperm sorter using the microfluidic system has been developed. To improve more separation efficiency of this device, it is necessary to know the behaviors of motile sperm in the microchannel where the sperm undergo shear flow. The previous study implied the necessity of the modeling of motile sperm in the shear flow. In the present study, therefore, we experimentally investigated the behavior of the motile sperm in the Taylor-Couette flow using PTV (Particle Tracking Velocimetry) method. The experimental results showed that the ascent of the shear stress led to the increase in the sperm velocity, and the direction of the sperm velocity was opposite to that of the flow.
文摘Bioconvection plays an inevitable role in introducing sustainable and environment-friendly fuel cell technologies.Bio-mathematical modelling of such designs needs continuous refinements to achieve strong agreements in experimental and computational results.Actually,microorganisms transport a miscellaneous palette of ingredients in manufacturing industrial goods particularly in fertilizer industries.Heat transfer characteristics of molecular structure are measured by a physical phenomenon which is allied with the transpiration of heat within matter.Motivated by bioinspired fuel cells involved in near-surface flow phenomena,in the present article,we examine the transverse swimming of motile gyrotactic microorganisms numerically in a rheological Jeffery fluid near a stretching wall.The leading physical model is converted in a nonlinear system of ODEs through proper similarity alterations.A numerical technique called shooting method with R-K Fehlberg is applied via mathematical software and graphical presentations are obtained.The influence of all relative physical constraints on velocity,temperature,concentration,and volume fraction of gyrotactic microorganisms is expressed geometrically.It is found that heat and mass flux at the surface as well as density of motile microorganism’s declines for Brownian motion and thermophoresis parameter.Comparison in tabular form is made with existing literature to validate the results for limiting cases with convective boundary conditions.
文摘Dear Editor,Historically,dipeptidyl peptidase 4(DPP4),found in alveolar regions,has been recognized as the primary receptor for several merbecoviruses like MERS-CoV(Meyerholz et al.,2016).However,angiotensin-converting enzyme 2(ACE2),highly expressed in the motile cilia of human airway epithelial cells(Sungnak et al.,2020),has been identified as the functional receptor for sarbecoviruses(e.g.,SARS-CoV-2,SARS-CoV)and setracoviruses(e.g.,HCoV-NL63).Recent studies have shown that some bat-circulating MERS-related coronaviruses(MERSr-CoVs),such as MOW15-22,PnNL2018B and HKU5,can use ACE2 to enter cells(Ma et al.,2025;Park et al.,2025).Even more worrying is that one novel bat-infecting merbecovirus HKU5-CoV lineage 2(BtHKU5-CoV-2)has been reported to use human ACE2 as a cell entry receptor(Chen et al.,2025).These ACE2-utilizing merbecoviruses expand the diversity,geographic distribution,and transmission potential of coronaviruses,posing a significant threat of spillover to humans.If an ACE2-utilizing MERSr-CoV acquire the high lethality of MERS-CoV and the high transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 using ACE2 as a receptor,it could trigger a global pandemic with catastrophic consequences for humanity.Therefore,it is essential to evaluate serological cross-reactivity in sera from SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals against ACE2-using MERSr-CoVs,and urgent to develop preventive vaccines and pan-coronavirus antivirals confront the potential threat(Jiang and Wu,2025).
文摘Varicocele is a prevalent condition in the infertile male population.However,to date,which patients may benefit most from varicocele repair is still a matter of debate.The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether certain preintervention sperm parameters are predictive of successful varicocele repair,defined as an improvement in total motile sperm count(TMSC).We performed a retrospective study on 111 patients with varicocele who had undergone varicocele repair,collected from the Department of Endocrinology,Metabolic Diseases and Nutrition,University of Catania(Catania,Italy),and the Unit of Urology at the Selcuk University School of Medicine(Konya,Türkiye).The predictive analysis was conducted through the use of the Brain Project,an innovative tool that allows a complete and totally unbiased search of mathematical expressions that relate the object of study to the various parameters available.Varicocele repair was considered successful when TMSC increased by at least 50% of the preintervention value.For patients with preintervention TMSC below 5×10^(6),improvement was considered clinically relevant when the increase exceeded 50% and the absolute TMSC value was>5×10^(6).From the preintervention TMSC alone,we found a model that predicts patients who appear to benefit little from varicocele repair with a sensitivity of 50.0% and a specificity of 81.8%.Varicocele grade and serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels did not play a predictive role,but it should be noted that all patients enrolled in this study were selected with intermediate-or high-grade varicocele and normal FSH levels.In conclusion,preintervention TMSC is predictive of the success of varicocele repair in terms of TMSC improvement in patients with intermediate-or high-grade varicoceles and normal FSH levels.
文摘BACKGROUND Simulated microgravity environment can lead to gastrointestinal motility disturbance.The pathogenesis of gastrointestinal motility disorders is closely related to the stem cell factor(SCF)/c-kit signaling pathway associated with intestinal flora and Cajal stromal cells.Moreover,intestinal flora can also affect the regulation of SCF/c-kit signaling pathway,thus affecting the expression of Cajal stromal cells.Cajal cells are the pacemakers of gastrointestinal motility.AIM To investigate the effects of Bifidobacterium lactis(B.lactis)BLa80 on the intestinal flora of rats in simulated microgravity and on the gastrointestinal motility-related SCF/c-kit pathway.METHODS The internationally recognized tail suspension animal model was used to simulate the microgravity environment,and 30 rats were randomly divided into control group,tail suspension group and drug administration tail suspension group with 10 rats in each group for a total of 28 days.The tail group was given B.lactis BLa80 by intragastric administration,and the other two groups were given water intragastric administration,the concentration of intragastric administration was 0.1 g/mL,and each rat was 1 mL/day.Hematoxylin&eosin staining was used to observe the histopathological changes in each segment of the intestine of each group,and the expression levels of SCF,c-kit,extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK)and p-ERK in the gastric antrum of each group were detected by Western blotting and PCR.The fecal flora and mucosal flora of rats in each group were detected by 16S rRNA.RESULTS Simulated microgravity resulted in severe exfoliation of villi of duodenum,jejunum and ileum in rats,marked damage,increased space between villi,loose arrangement,shortened columnar epithelium of colon,less folds,narrower mucosal thickness,reduced goblet cell number and crypts,and significant improvement after probiotic intervention.Simulated microgravity reduced the expressions of SCF and c-kit,and increased the expressions of ERK and P-ERK in the gastric antrum of rats.However,after probiotic intervention,the expressions of SCF and ckit were increased,while the expressions of ERK and P-ERK were decreased,with statistical significance(P<0.05).In addition,simulated microgravity can reduce the operational taxonomic unit(OTU)of the overall intestinal flora of rats,B.lactis BLa80 can increase the OTU of rats,simulated microgravity can reduce the overall richness and diversity of stool flora of rats,increase the abundance of firmicutes in stool flora of rats,and reduce the abundance of Bacteroides in stool flora of rats,most of which are mainly beneficial bacteria.Simulated microgravity can increase the overall richness and diversity of mucosal flora,increase the abundance of Bacteroides and Desulphurides in the rat mucosal flora,and decrease the abundance of firmicutes,most of which are proteobacteria.After probiotics intervention,the overall Bacteroidetes trend in simulated microgravity rats was increased.CONCLUSION B.lactis BLa80 can ameliorate intestinal mucosal injury,regulate intestinal flora,inhibit ERK expression,and activate the SCF/c-kit signaling pathway,which may have a facilitating effect on gastrointestinal motility in simulated microgravity rats.
基金Supported by Guiding Project of Shiyan City,Hubei Province in 2022(22Y30).
文摘[Objectives]To investigate the effects of Visceral Manipulation combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery on postoperative recovery in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery,and to evaluate its impacts on inflammatory stress response,gastrointestinal motility recovery,and blood oxygen levels.[Methods]A prospective randomized controlled design was adopted.Eighty patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected and randomly divided into an observation group(40 cases)and a control group(40 cases).The observation group received Visceral Manipulation therapy in addition to routine Enhanced Recovery after Surgery care,while the control group received only routine Enhanced Recovery after Surgery care.Clinical indicators,inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-6,hs-CRP),traumatic stress hormones(cortisol,epinephrine,norepinephrine),gastrointestinal motility indicators(GAS,MTL,GIP),and blood oxygen levels were measured and compared between the two groups on postoperative days 1,5,and 10.[Results]The observation group showed significantly better outcomes in postoperative abdominal distension,time to first flatus and defecation,and hospital stay compared to the control group(P<0.05).Inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-6,hs-CRP),traumatic stress hormones(cortisol,epinephrine,norepinephrine),and gastrointestinal motility indicators(GAS,MTL,GIP)were significantly improved in the observation group(P<0.05).Postoperative blood oxygen levels were also significantly higher in the observation group(P<0.05).[Conclusions]Visceral Manipulation combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery can significantly improve postoperative recovery in gastrointestinal surgery patients,alleviate inflammatory stress responses,promote gastrointestinal functional recovery,and enhance blood oxygen levels,demonstrating promising clinical application prospects.
基金Supported by Clinical Key Project of Peking University Third Hospital,No.BYSY2023049Funding from State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion,Center for Reproductive Medicine,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,Peking University Third Hospital,No.BYSYSZKF2023027.
文摘Postoperative ileus(POI)remains a prevalent and significant challenge following abdominal surgeries,precipitating patient distress,prolonged hospital stays,and escalated medical expenditures.Conventionally addressed via pharmacological interventions,POI is increasingly being explored through adjunctive therapeutic strategies,with acupuncture gaining recognition as a promising option.Acupuncture has demonstrated encouraging potential in promoting gastrointestinal motility in patients with POI.Moreover,recent research has shed light on the therapeutic mechanisms underlying its efficacy.This article aims to present a comprehensive overview of acupuncture as a treatment for POI,highlighting advancements in clinical research and recent elucidations of its mechanistic underpinnings.It aspires to contribute a pivotal reference point for scholars and enthusiasts keen on garnering a deeper understanding of acupuncture’s role in managing POI.
文摘Moringa oleifera have laxative effects,but their active compositions and mechanisms are not very clear thus far.To this end,we systematically explored the active components and mechanism of M.oleifera leaves in relieving constipation by using the slow transit constipation(STC)mouse model and network pharmacology.The results of animal experiments showed that M.oleifera aqueous extract(MOA)had good laxative activity,and its 70%alcohol soluble part(ASP)also showed significant laxative activity(P<0.01).Network pharmacological prediction results suggested that L-phenylalanine(Phe)was the key compound of ASP,and it might relieve constipation through tachykinin receptor 1(TACR1)and three kinds of adrenergic receptors,includingα_(1A)(ADRA1A),α_(2A)(ADRA2A),andα_(2B)(ADRA2B).Further animal experiment results showed that Phe significantly promoted gastrointestinal motility.Phe may relieve STC by enhancing the release of substance P(SP)and upregulating the m RNA expression of TACR1 in the ileum.Importantly,Phe may also promote intestinal movement by downregulating the m RNA expression of ADRA2A and ADRA2B and upregulating the m RNA expression of Calm and the m RNA and protein expression of myosin light chain 9 in the ileum,thereby activating the G protein-coupled receptor-myosin light chain signaling pathway.These results lay a foundation for the application of M.oleifera and Phe in constipation.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.U22A20523,U23A20242)National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2021YFD1801000).
文摘Salmonellosis represents a global epidemic,and the emergence of extensively drug-resistant(XDR)Salmonella and its sustained transmission worldwide constitutes a significant public health concern.Flagellum-mediated motility serves as a crucial virulence trait of Salmonella that guides the pathogen toward the epithelial surface,enhancing gut colonization.Artemisia argyit essential oil,a traditional herb extract,demonstrates efficacy in treating inflammationrelated symptoms and diseases;however,its effects on flagellum assembly and expression mechanisms in anti-Salmonella activity remain inadequately explored.This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which Artemisia argyit essential oil addresses Salmonella infections.Network pharmacological analysis revealed that Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Artemisia argyit exhibited anti-Salmonella infection potential and inhibited flagellum-dependent motility.The application of Artemisia argyit essential oil induced notable motility defects through the downregulation of flagellar and fimbriae expression.Moreover,it significantly reduced Salmonella-infected cell damage by interfering with flagellum-mediated Salmonella colonization.In vivo studies demonstrated that Artemisia argyit essential oil administration effectively alleviated Salmonella infection symptoms by reducing bacterial loads,inhibiting interleukin-1 beta(IL-1β),IL-6,and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α)production,and diminishing pathological injury.Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)analysis identified forty-three compounds in Artemisia argyit essential oil,with their corresponding targets and active ingredients predicted.Investigation of an in vivo model of Salmonella infection using the active ingredient demonstrated that alpha-cedrene ameliorated Salmonella infection.These findings suggest the potential application of Artemisia argyit essential oil in controlling Salmonella,the predominant food-borne pathogen.
文摘Gallstone disease(cholelithiasis)is a common gastrointestinal(GI)disorder characterized by the accumulation of hardened bile constituents,often leading to complications such as cholecystitis,cholangitis,and pancreatitis.Most gallstones are cholesterol-based and form due to bile supersaturation,gallbladder dysm-otility,and inflammation.Current treatment options–such as ursodeoxycholic acid,laparoscopic cholecystectomy,and dietary modifications–have limitations including invasiveness,prolonged duration,side effects,and recurrence risk.Melatonin,a hormone secreted by the pineal gland,has gained attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,as well as its regulatory effects on lipid metabolism and gallbladder motility.Experimental studies suggest that melatonin reduces biliary cholesterol,suppresses oxidative stress,and restores gallbladder muscle function,thereby preventing gallstone formation.It is also present in bile and shown to enhance cholesterol conversion into bile acids and inhibit intestinal cholesterol absorption.Beyond gallstone prevention,melatonin demonstrates protective effects against GI malignancies,including hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma,by regulating mitochondrial function,inhibiting glycolysis,and modulating apoptosis.With a strong safety profile and minimal side effects,melatonin may serve as a promising adjunct or alternative for gallstone management,particularly in patients unfit for surgery.Further clin-ical research is warranted to validate its therapeutic role.
文摘BACKGROUND The pathophysiology behind gastroesophageal reflux disease and its association with poor outcomes after lung transplantation is incompletely understood.The physiologic impact of lung transplantation on pulmonary function,intrathoracic pressures,and vagal innervation may affect esophageal motility,bolus clearance and reflux risk.However,the effect of changes in esophageal function after lung transplantation on the risk of poor post-transplant outcomes remains unclear.AIM To evaluate the association between change in esophageal motility pre-/post-lung transplantation and rejection outcome.METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of lung transplant recipients who underwent both pre-and post-transplant esophageal testing including high resolution manometry(HRM)at a tertiary center.Acute cellular rejection(ACR)was defined histologically per International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria.Univariate analyses were performed using student’s t-test,χ2 test,and Spearman’s correlation where appropriate.Multivariable time-to-event analysis using Cox proportional hazards model was applied.Subjects not meeting ACR outcome were censored at death or date of last clinic visit.RESULTS 55 subjects(65%men,mean age:61,median follow-up:840 days)were included,with 17 (31%) experiencing ACR. Increase in failed swallows correlated with lower baseline total lung capacity(TLC) (R = -0.32, P = 0.05) and decreased post-transplant esophageal bolus clearance (R = -0.45, P = 0.004). Onmultivariable analysis, post-transplant hypomotility independently predicted increased ACR (HR: 3.62, 95%CI:1.11-11.8;P = 0.03). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated increased ACR for subjects with increased vs unchangedfailed swallows post-transplant (P = 0.048). On Cox regression, a 20% elevated risk of ACR was found for every10% increase in failed swallows, after controlling for confounders including reflux severityCONCLUSIONEsophageal hypomotility, specifically an increase in failed swallows on HRM, from pre- to post-lungtransplantation was independently associated with ACR. Additionally, lower baseline TLC correlated with increasein failed swallows, suggesting restrictive lung disease may be associated with post-transplant esophagealhypomotility. Lung transplantation may affect esophageal function and contribute to rejection outcomes. Routineesophageal function testing may help identify patients at higher risk for poor lung transplantation outcomes.
文摘BACKGROUND Pseudoachalasia mimics primary achalasia in symptoms and diagnostic findings,as observed in gastroscopy and barium swallow studies.However,pseudoachalasia,often associated with malignancies like metastatic breast cancer,requires prompt differentiation to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.This report highlights a rare case of pseudoachalasia secondary to metastatic breast cancer and highlights the diagnostic value of esophageal motility changes.CASE SUMMARY A 52-year-old woman presented with a one-year history of intermittent dysphagia following breast cancer surgery.Initial examinations suggested achalasia,but the patient’s high-resolution manometry(HRM)results showed a rapid shift from ineffective esophageal motility to type Ⅱ achalasia within four months.Further investigations revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma of the cardia,originating from the breast.CONCLUSION In patients with a history of malignancy,rapidly evolving esophageal motility abnormalities should raise suspicion of pseudoachalasia.HRM plays a crucial role in differentiating between primary and secondary achalasia.Early diagnosis through advanced imaging and pathology is essential for proper management.
基金supported by The Research Fund of Jianghan University(Grant No.2024JCYJ13)Science and Technology Research Program of Department of Education of Hubei Province(Grant No.Q20234413).
文摘Objective Abnormal gastrointestinal motility plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of functional dyspepsia(FD).Although electroacupuncture(EA)has demonstrated efficacy in FD treatment,its precise mechanism remains unclear.This study aimed to elucidate the specific mechanism through which EA improves gastrointestinal motility in FD.Methods Physiological indices,including body weight,food intake,gastrointestinal motility,and gastrointestinal morphology,were utilized to assess the FD model in rats.EA interventions were applied at meridian points,as well as non-meridian points and non-acupoints,in FD model rats.The effects of EA at zusanli(ST36)and taichong(LR3)on gastrointestinal motility in FD model rats were elucidated using gastrointestinal motility test indices.Techniques such as Western blotting,quantitative real-time PCR,and immunofluorescence were employed to determine the specific mechanisms by which EA improved gastrointestinal motility in FD model rats.Results Multifactorial stress intervention could be used to effectively establish an FD rat model.EA at ST36 and LR3 significantly improved gastrointestinal motility.Furthermore,EA at ST36 and LR3 upregulated the protein expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor(GDNF),GDNF family receptor alpha 1(GFRα1),phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K),and protein kinase B(Akt),along with their mRNA expression levels and the number of enteric glial cells(EGCs).Conclusions EA was capable of increasing the number of EGCs by activating the GDNF/GFRα1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway,thereby improving gastrointestinal motility in FD.
文摘BACKGROUND Although limited clinical evidence exists,such as case reports of azoospermia treatment in humans using bone marrow aspirate concentrate(BMAC)injection,these findings provide a compelling foundation for exploring mesenchymal stem cell therapy in male infertility.AIM To evaluate the safety and efficacy of autologous BMAC injection into human testis for men with severe oligospermia or azoospermia over the existing standard of care pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications.METHODS We included patients diagnosed with male infertility of the age group between 35–45 years in this trial comparing BMAC injection therapy with pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications over a 6-month follow-up period.Semen analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy of the interventions analyzed.RESULTS We enrolled 30 patients in the trial with 10 patients in each arm of the trial.Compared to the baseline,neither the BMAC group(P=0.139)or pharmacotherapy group(P=0.056)nor the lifestyle modification group(P=0.112)demonstrated a statistically significant increase in sperm count at 6 months.However,the BMAC group demonstrated a significant increase in sperm count(mean 19.2 million;P=0.001)compared to the pharmacotherapy group(mean 3.5 million)and lifestyle modification group(mean 2.2 million)at 6 months.Significant improvement was noted in the motility grade(P<0.001)only in the BMAC group while no changes were noted in the other groups.CONCLUSION This trial highlights the potential of autologous BMAC as a promising therapeutic option for male infertility.Despite the absence of significant changes within individual treatment arms,BMAC therapy demonstrated superior efficacy in improving both sperm count and motility compared to standard pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications.These findings underscore the potential role of regenerative medicine in addressing severe oligospermia and azoospermia,warranting further research to solidify its clinical applicability.
文摘Objective: To investigate the specific mechanism of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) in the regulation of human sperm apoptosis, and to provide a new theoretical reference and scientific basis for the diagnosis and treatment of asthenospermia and other related conditions. Methods: Semen samples were categorized into the normal group and asthenospermia group based on sperm motility criteria. HIF-1α interfering agent cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and guanylate cyclase activator (Lificiguat, YC-1) were added respectively, with a control group established accordingly. Sperm motility (using anterior viability rate as an index), apoptosis level, ATP level, mitochondrial membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level were measured. The expression levels of HIF-1α, p-PI3K, and Bcl-2 in the samples were analyzed using Western blotting. Results: Following CoCl2 treatment, there was a significant increase in sperm apoptosis compared to the normal control group (12.51% ± 2.50% VS 11.15% ± 2.42%);additionally, sperm motility (45.34% ± 3.37% VS 51.36% ± 11.68%), ATP production (11.51 ± 2.87 nM/µL VS 14.99 ± 2.83 nM/µL), ROS levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential all decreased significantly (all P α and p-PI3K increased significantly while Bcl-2 expression decreased (all P α in the YC-1 treatment group were decreased, and the expression level of Bcl-2 was increased (all P α can influence human sperm apoptosis and motility through the PI3K signaling pathway.
