BACKGROUND There has been an increasing focus in recent years on health-care disparities.Studies investigating return to work(RTW)or sports are often performed in large,urban areas.Relatively few studies have investig...BACKGROUND There has been an increasing focus in recent years on health-care disparities.Studies investigating return to work(RTW)or sports are often performed in large,urban areas.Relatively few studies have investigated rates of return to farming or other heavy labor that is of interest to patients in rural areas.AIM To evaluate the literature regarding RTW in farming or heavy labor after orthopedic hip,knee,or shoulder surgery.METHODS A search was performed in the PubMed and EMBASE databases using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Studies were included if they reported patients employed in farming or heavy labor,RTW rates after orthopedic surgery of the hip,knee,or shoulder,and had a minimum 6-month follow-up.A meta-analysis of proportions using a random-effects model was performed on three single-arm observational studies to estimate the pooled RTW rate following arthroscopic shoulder surgery.RESULTS Ten studies were included,and 101 farmers were identified among 440 total patients.One study involved hip surgery,two studies involved knee surgery,and seven studies involved shoulder surgery.RTW rates across studies varied by type of surgery and follow-up interval,ranging from 24%to 100%.The RTW rate was only 53.6%at 1 year following total hip arthroplasty.No studies investigated RTW in farmers following total knee arthroplasty.Among non-comparative studies,meta-analysis revealed a pooled RTW rate of 89%following arthroscopic shoulder surgery,with low heterogeneity(I^(2)=30.1%).Among comparative studies,one study reported significantly higher RTW odds for patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty compared to reverse shoulder arthroplasty(odds ratio=5.45).Overall,surgical intervention for shoulder pathology was associated with a high likelihood of RTW across multiple techniques,with particularly favorable outcomes for anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.CONCLUSION This systematic review highlights the high rates of RTW in farmers and heavy laborers after shoulder surgery.However,our findings also underscore the need for more rural-specific research to guide patient counseling,rehabilitation expectations,and shared decision-making in this underserved population,particularly for orthopedic surgery of the hip and knee.展开更多
Old-growth forests uniquely support biodiversity while serving as some of the planet's most important carbon stocks.The influence of tree and stand age on carbon flux dynamics remains debated—an urgent question a...Old-growth forests uniquely support biodiversity while serving as some of the planet's most important carbon stocks.The influence of tree and stand age on carbon flux dynamics remains debated—an urgent question as climate-driven disturbances may reshape forest age structures and in situ carbon storage.To clarify these relationships in Fagus sylvatica,systems,we examined a unique dataset of 3,503 tree ring series from 190 plots across some of the best preserved old-growth forests from five southern European countries.By employing a dendrochronological approach and integrating key environmental variables,including elevation,slope,temperature,and the presence of large-diameter trees(≥60 cm),we analyzed the complex relationships between tree/stand age within a plot(represented by plot-level mean values,hereafter“stand age”)and aboveground carbon stock across live,standing,and lying deadwood pools.The average stand age was 220 years,with 230 tC⋅ha^(-1) of carbon stored in aboveground biomass and necromass.We found a positive correlation between age and carbon storage at both the individual tree and plot levels.Notably,the presence of large-diameter trees was the strongest indicator of carbon stock,with carbon accumulation peaking at about 30%large-tree stems proportion before stabilising,while younger beech trees(below 100 years old)had a smaller contribution to carbon storage.We found no evidence of a decline in carbon stock with advancing stand age across the studied sites.Despite the ecological importance of old-growth forests,many of them remain unprotected and are disappearing across Europe.Our findings highlight the importance of preserving old-growth forests to maximize their role as long-term ecosystem carbon reservoirs.展开更多
Background Milk synthesis is an energy-intensive process influenced by oxygen availability.This study investigates how hypoxia affects milk synthesis in BMECs,focusing on key genes involved in lactation and energy met...Background Milk synthesis is an energy-intensive process influenced by oxygen availability.This study investigates how hypoxia affects milk synthesis in BMECs,focusing on key genes involved in lactation and energy metabolism.Methods BMECs were cultured in a normoxic environment and then transferred to a hypoxia chamber with 1%O2 for specified durations.The study evaluated cellular responses through various molecular experiments and RNA sequencing.Small interfering RNA was employed to knock down HIF-1αto investigate whether the lactation-related phenotype alteration depends on HIF-1α.Results Hypoxia disrupted milk protein production by reducing mTOR/P70S6K/4EBP1 signaling and downregulating genes critical for amino acid transport and protein synthesis.Triglyceride synthesis increased due to enhanced fatty acid uptake and the upregulation of regulatory proteins,including FASN and PPARγ.Although glucose uptake was elevated under hypoxia,key enzymes for lactose synthesis were downregulated,suggesting a redirection of glucose toward energy production.Mitochondrial function was impaired under hypoxia,with reduced gene expression in TCA cycle,ETC,cytosol-mitochondrial transport,decreased ATP levels,increased ROS levels,and structural alterations.Additionally,lipid synthesis and glucose uptake depend on HIF-1α,while milk protein synthesis alterations occurred independently of HIF-1α.Conclusions Hypoxia alters milk synthesis in BMECs by disrupting milk protein synthesis,enhancing lipid metabolism,and impairing energy production.These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of oxygen deprivation on lactation efficiency,offering potential targets for mitigating hypoxic stress in the mammary glands of dairy animals.展开更多
Droughts have caused tree growth decline and high tree mortality across temperate forests,however,how to manage planted forests to alleviate drought stress is still challenging.We used tree-ring and forest inventory d...Droughts have caused tree growth decline and high tree mortality across temperate forests,however,how to manage planted forests to alleviate drought stress is still challenging.We used tree-ring and forest inventory data from different density stands to investigate how competition,tree diameter at breast height(DBH),tree age,and their interactions influence drought sensitivity and resistance for three widely-distributed and planted conifer species(Larix principis-rupprechtii,Picea meyeri,and Pinus sylvestris var.mongolica).Our results showed that the drought sensitivity of the three species was influenced by competition,tree size,and their interactions.Large L.principis-rupprechtii trees were particularly sensitive to drought during the growing season in medium to high-density stands,while the growth of large P.sylvestris var.mongolica was most affected by precipitation at low to medium density stands.Drought resistance of L.principis-rupprechtii trees decreased as tree size increased.Large L.principis-rupprechtii trees had lower drought resistance than small trees in all stands.Drought resistance of large P.meyeri trees exhibited high resistance to drought only in high-density stands.However,drought resistance of P.sylvestris var.mongolica trees was affected by tree size,competition,and their interactions.These results indicated that targeted silvicultural interventions,such as thinning,can be implemented to enhance drought resistance specifically for large L.principis-rupprechtii trees and small P.sylvestris var.mongolica trees in medium and high competition stands,and small P.meyeri trees in high competition stands.Our results highlight that properly conducted thinning can in some cases enhance growth resistance to droughts,depending on stand density,tree size,and tree species.展开更多
Background Mastitis is known to alter milk lipid yield,but its effects on lipid composition in blood and milk remain less understood.This study investigated changes in fatty acid(FA)composition in blood lipid fraction...Background Mastitis is known to alter milk lipid yield,but its effects on lipid composition in blood and milk remain less understood.This study investigated changes in fatty acid(FA)composition in blood lipid fractions and milk of dairy cows following an intramammary lipopolysaccharide(LPS)challenge and explored potential links associated with these changes.We hypothesized that intramammary LPS infusion would alter the FA composition of blood lipid fractions,and that milk FA composition would reflect these changes.Furthermore,we hypothesized that prostaglandin E2(PGE2)would be associated with changes in both blood and milk FA composition,functioning as a potential mediator of these changes.Results Ten lactating cows were split into two groups.The treatment group received intramammary infusions of 50μg Escherichia coli LPS in both quarters of one udder half to induce clinical mastitis,and saline infusions in the quarters of the opposite udder half;the control group received saline infusions in one udder half only.Blood and foremilk were collected from individual cows or glands at−1,3,6,12,and 24 h post-infusion.Blood lipids were fractionated into cholesterol esters,free fatty acids(FFA),phospholipids(PL),and triacylglycerides(TAG).The FA composition was analyzed via gas-liquid chromatography.Total plasma TAG,FFA,and PGE2 concentrations were measured by colorimetric assay or ELISA.Statistical significance was determined using mixed models with Tukey's test.Lipopolysaccharide infusion did not affect total plasma TAG and FFA concentrations but increased plasma PGE2 concentrations andΔ9 desaturation indices in plasma TAG.A distinct shift in FA composition in plasma phospholipids and TAG was observed between the treatment and control groups at 6 and 12 h post-infusion.Specifically,LPS increased the proportion of n-6 polyunsaturated FA(18:2,18:3,20:3,20:4,20:5)and FA with less than 16 carbons while decreasing the saturated FA(18:0 and 20:0)in plasma TAG at 6 and 12 h.However,the milk FA composition remained unchanged.Conclusion Our findings indicate that transient intramammary LPS challenge influences systemic lipid metabolism without altering the milk FA composition,suggesting that mammary inflammatory responses affect blood lipids independently of milk lipid secretion.展开更多
Helicobacter pylori infection represents a widespread chronic condition with varying prevalence influenced by race, ethnicity, and geography. The severity of H. pylori-associated diseases is determined by an array of ...Helicobacter pylori infection represents a widespread chronic condition with varying prevalence influenced by race, ethnicity, and geography. The severity of H. pylori-associated diseases is determined by an array of virulence factors. Although extensive studies have been conducted globally, data on the distribution of Helicobacter pylori virulence genes in Libya remain limited, constraining insights into the pathogenicity of local strains and hindering the development of targeted interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection, characterize essential virulence genes [vacA variants (s1/s2, m1/m2), cagA, and iceA1], and examine their association with gastroduodenal diseases among Libyan patients. Gastric biopsies from 144 participants were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and risk factor data were collected via questionnaires. H. pylori was detected in 63.2% of samples by PCR. The vacA gene was present in 84.6% of cases, cagA in 58.2%, and iceA1 in 29.7%. Among vacA variants, s1 allele was most common (53.2%), followed by m1 (42.9%), m2 (37.7%), and s2 (13%) alleles. Significant associations were identified between specific virulence genes and the development of gastroduodenal diseases, highlighting their role in pathogenicity. This investigation is one of Libya’s first comprehensive assessments of H. pylori virulence factors, addressing a critical epidemiological gap. The high prevalence of virulence genes suggests their potential as disease biomarkers. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of H. pylori pathogenicity within the Libyan population and establish a basis for future clinical interventions and public health strategies to manage and prevent H. pylori-associated diseases in Libya and comparable regions.展开更多
Objective Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)and insulin resistance;however,the correlation between HP eradication and NAFLD remains controversial.This systemat...Objective Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)and insulin resistance;however,the correlation between HP eradication and NAFLD remains controversial.This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of HP treatment on clinical and laboratory parameters in NAFLD patients.Methods We conducted a literature search of the PubMed,Embase,Scopus,and Web of Science databases through Septem-ber 2023 for randomized controlled trials(RCTs)examining the effect of HP treatment on NAFLD patients versus lifestyle changes alone.The primary outcome was the change in steatosis parameters.The secondary endpoints were changes in anthropometric parameters,inflammatory markers(TNF-α),and metabolic parameters(fasting blood glucose,homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance,AST/ALT,and lipid profile).The random effects model was used to calculate the standardized mean difference(SMD)with associated 95%confidence intervals(CIs)for our desired outcome.Results Four RCTs met our inclusion criteria.A total of 453 patients were included(mean age 42.8 years,58.5%males),228(50.3%)of whom were in the HP eradication group and 225(49.7%)of whom were in the lifestyle modification group.Compared with lifestyle modification alone,HP eradication had a significant effect on reducing liver steatosis and TNF-αlevels(SMD:-0.9;95%CI-14.67,-3.82,I^(2)=0%and SMD:-6.3;95%CI-9.04,-3.56,I^(2)=0%,respectively).No sig-nificant effect on other metabolic parameters was found.Conclusions HP eradication significantly reduced liver steatosis and TNF-αlevels in NAFLD patients.However,HP eradi-cation did not significantly affect other metabolic indices compared to lifestyle changes alone.展开更多
BACKGROUND Sex disparities in clinical outcomes following thoracic endovascular aortic repair(TEVAR)for acute complicated type B aortic dissection(TBAD)are not well understood.AIM To evaluates the impact of sex on pri...BACKGROUND Sex disparities in clinical outcomes following thoracic endovascular aortic repair(TEVAR)for acute complicated type B aortic dissection(TBAD)are not well understood.AIM To evaluates the impact of sex on primary and secondary outcomes by comparing male and female cohorts undergoing TEVAR.METHODS A systematic search of PubMed,EMBASE,Cochrane Library,and ScienceDirect identified five studies involving 2572 patients(1153 males and 1419 females).The primary outcome was hospital mortality.Secondary outcomes included reintervention rates,acute kidney injury(AKI),ischemic stroke,limb ischemia,and spinal cord ischemia.Odds ratios(OR)with 95%confidence intervals(CI)were calculated using a random-effects model.Heterogeneity was assessed using the I²statistic.RESULTS The primary outcome showed no significant difference between males and females for hospital mortality(OR:1.13,95%CI:0.81-1.59,P=0.47,I2=0).Among secondary outcomes,males had a significantly higher risk of AKI(OR:1.55,95%CI:1.21-2.00,P=0.0006,I²=0).No differences were observed for reintervention rates,ischemic stroke,limb ischemia,or spinal cord ischemia.CONCLUSION Male patients undergoing TEVAR for complicated TBAD are at increased risk of AKI but show comparable outcomes to females for mortality,ischemic events,reintervention,and other complications.Future research should explore mechanisms and strategies to optimize outcomes.展开更多
BACKGROUND Environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)is a subclinical condition caused by fecal-oral contamination leading to enteric inflammation and dysbiosis.Bile acids serve to facilitate lipid digestion and absorptio...BACKGROUND Environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)is a subclinical condition caused by fecal-oral contamination leading to enteric inflammation and dysbiosis.Bile acids serve to facilitate lipid digestion and absorption,regulate metabolic pathways associated with childhood growth and inflammation,and may be affected by EED.AIM To investigate bile acid metabolism in Bangladeshi children with EED and its association with growth impairment.METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 100 Bangladeshi infants(aged 6-9 months)and quantified serum and fecal bile acids using LC-MS/MS.We compared profiles to a control group of 6 American children(6-12 months)and 80 older Bangladeshi children(aged 2 years).RESULTS Bangladeshi infants had higher levels of plasma unconjugated primary(65.23%vs 44.25%,P=0.003)and sulfated primary bile acids(12.98%vs<0.001%,P=0.01),with lower primary conjugated bile acids(0.69%vs 2.74%,P≤0.001)compared to American children.Stool unconjugated primary bile acids were inversely associated with weight-for-age[regression coefficient(β)=-0.01,P=0.01]and height-for-age Z scores(β=-0.01,P=0.03).Conjugated secondary bile acids were inversely associated with small intestine bacterial overgrowth(β=-1096.68,P=0.05).Fecal myeloperoxidase was associated with sulfated secondary bile acids(β=-0.40,P=0.04).Compared to 2-year-old children,the Bangladeshi infant’s serum had higher levels of unconjugated primary bile acids(65.23%vs 9.20%,P≤0.001)and lower levels of primary conjugated bile acids(0.69%vs 80.38%,P≤0.001).CONCLUSION Our data suggests an age-dependent defect in conjugation of primary bile acids in Bangladeshi children with compensatory hydrophilic shunting.Additionally,bile acid profiles are associated with intestinal overgrowth.展开更多
具有通配符间隙约束的模式匹配问题在信息检索、计算生物学和序列模式挖掘等研究领域有重要的应用.提出了更一般性的模式匹配问题,即一般间隙和长度约束的严格模式匹配(strict pattern matching with general gaps and length constrain...具有通配符间隙约束的模式匹配问题在信息检索、计算生物学和序列模式挖掘等研究领域有重要的应用.提出了更一般性的模式匹配问题,即一般间隙和长度约束的严格模式匹配(strict pattern matching with general gaps and length constraints,简称SPANGLO).该问题具有如下4个特点:它是一种严格的精确模式匹配;允许序列中任意位置的字符被多次使用;模式串中可以包含多个一般间隙;对出现的总体长度进行了约束.最坏情况下,一个SPANGLO实例将转换出指数个非负间隙的严格模式匹配实例.为了有效地解决该问题,提出了子网树及其相关概念和性质.在此基础上提出了求解算法SubnettreeSpanglo(SETS),并给出算法的正确性和完备性证明,同时指出该算法的空间复杂度与时间复杂度分别为O(m MaxLen W)和O(MaxLen W m2 n),其中,m,n,MaxLen和W分别是模式和序列的长度、出现的最大长度约束和模式的最大间距.实验结果既验证了SPANGLO问题转换方法的正确性,又验证了该算法的正确性和有效性.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND There has been an increasing focus in recent years on health-care disparities.Studies investigating return to work(RTW)or sports are often performed in large,urban areas.Relatively few studies have investigated rates of return to farming or other heavy labor that is of interest to patients in rural areas.AIM To evaluate the literature regarding RTW in farming or heavy labor after orthopedic hip,knee,or shoulder surgery.METHODS A search was performed in the PubMed and EMBASE databases using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Studies were included if they reported patients employed in farming or heavy labor,RTW rates after orthopedic surgery of the hip,knee,or shoulder,and had a minimum 6-month follow-up.A meta-analysis of proportions using a random-effects model was performed on three single-arm observational studies to estimate the pooled RTW rate following arthroscopic shoulder surgery.RESULTS Ten studies were included,and 101 farmers were identified among 440 total patients.One study involved hip surgery,two studies involved knee surgery,and seven studies involved shoulder surgery.RTW rates across studies varied by type of surgery and follow-up interval,ranging from 24%to 100%.The RTW rate was only 53.6%at 1 year following total hip arthroplasty.No studies investigated RTW in farmers following total knee arthroplasty.Among non-comparative studies,meta-analysis revealed a pooled RTW rate of 89%following arthroscopic shoulder surgery,with low heterogeneity(I^(2)=30.1%).Among comparative studies,one study reported significantly higher RTW odds for patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty compared to reverse shoulder arthroplasty(odds ratio=5.45).Overall,surgical intervention for shoulder pathology was associated with a high likelihood of RTW across multiple techniques,with particularly favorable outcomes for anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.CONCLUSION This systematic review highlights the high rates of RTW in farmers and heavy laborers after shoulder surgery.However,our findings also underscore the need for more rural-specific research to guide patient counseling,rehabilitation expectations,and shared decision-making in this underserved population,particularly for orthopedic surgery of the hip and knee.
基金supported by the Czech University of Life Sciences(Internal Grant Agency:A_12_24,43110/1312/3103)the Czech Science Foundation(Grant GACR No.21-27454S)+3 种基金Technology Agency of the Czech Republic(TACR No.SS06010420)provided by the CLIMB-FOREST project(No.101060554)project FORbEST(No.101181878)funded under the Horizon Europe Framework Programme。
文摘Old-growth forests uniquely support biodiversity while serving as some of the planet's most important carbon stocks.The influence of tree and stand age on carbon flux dynamics remains debated—an urgent question as climate-driven disturbances may reshape forest age structures and in situ carbon storage.To clarify these relationships in Fagus sylvatica,systems,we examined a unique dataset of 3,503 tree ring series from 190 plots across some of the best preserved old-growth forests from five southern European countries.By employing a dendrochronological approach and integrating key environmental variables,including elevation,slope,temperature,and the presence of large-diameter trees(≥60 cm),we analyzed the complex relationships between tree/stand age within a plot(represented by plot-level mean values,hereafter“stand age”)and aboveground carbon stock across live,standing,and lying deadwood pools.The average stand age was 220 years,with 230 tC⋅ha^(-1) of carbon stored in aboveground biomass and necromass.We found a positive correlation between age and carbon storage at both the individual tree and plot levels.Notably,the presence of large-diameter trees was the strongest indicator of carbon stock,with carbon accumulation peaking at about 30%large-tree stems proportion before stabilising,while younger beech trees(below 100 years old)had a smaller contribution to carbon storage.We found no evidence of a decline in carbon stock with advancing stand age across the studied sites.Despite the ecological importance of old-growth forests,many of them remain unprotected and are disappearing across Europe.Our findings highlight the importance of preserving old-growth forests to maximize their role as long-term ecosystem carbon reservoirs.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(grant number:32072756)Agricultural Research System of China(grant number:CARS-36).
文摘Background Milk synthesis is an energy-intensive process influenced by oxygen availability.This study investigates how hypoxia affects milk synthesis in BMECs,focusing on key genes involved in lactation and energy metabolism.Methods BMECs were cultured in a normoxic environment and then transferred to a hypoxia chamber with 1%O2 for specified durations.The study evaluated cellular responses through various molecular experiments and RNA sequencing.Small interfering RNA was employed to knock down HIF-1αto investigate whether the lactation-related phenotype alteration depends on HIF-1α.Results Hypoxia disrupted milk protein production by reducing mTOR/P70S6K/4EBP1 signaling and downregulating genes critical for amino acid transport and protein synthesis.Triglyceride synthesis increased due to enhanced fatty acid uptake and the upregulation of regulatory proteins,including FASN and PPARγ.Although glucose uptake was elevated under hypoxia,key enzymes for lactose synthesis were downregulated,suggesting a redirection of glucose toward energy production.Mitochondrial function was impaired under hypoxia,with reduced gene expression in TCA cycle,ETC,cytosol-mitochondrial transport,decreased ATP levels,increased ROS levels,and structural alterations.Additionally,lipid synthesis and glucose uptake depend on HIF-1α,while milk protein synthesis alterations occurred independently of HIF-1α.Conclusions Hypoxia alters milk synthesis in BMECs by disrupting milk protein synthesis,enhancing lipid metabolism,and impairing energy production.These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of oxygen deprivation on lactation efficiency,offering potential targets for mitigating hypoxic stress in the mammary glands of dairy animals.
基金funded by State Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2023YFD2200401)S&T Program of Hebei(Nos.226Z6801G,22326807D)Talent Introduction Program in Hebei Agricultural University(No.YJ201918).
文摘Droughts have caused tree growth decline and high tree mortality across temperate forests,however,how to manage planted forests to alleviate drought stress is still challenging.We used tree-ring and forest inventory data from different density stands to investigate how competition,tree diameter at breast height(DBH),tree age,and their interactions influence drought sensitivity and resistance for three widely-distributed and planted conifer species(Larix principis-rupprechtii,Picea meyeri,and Pinus sylvestris var.mongolica).Our results showed that the drought sensitivity of the three species was influenced by competition,tree size,and their interactions.Large L.principis-rupprechtii trees were particularly sensitive to drought during the growing season in medium to high-density stands,while the growth of large P.sylvestris var.mongolica was most affected by precipitation at low to medium density stands.Drought resistance of L.principis-rupprechtii trees decreased as tree size increased.Large L.principis-rupprechtii trees had lower drought resistance than small trees in all stands.Drought resistance of large P.meyeri trees exhibited high resistance to drought only in high-density stands.However,drought resistance of P.sylvestris var.mongolica trees was affected by tree size,competition,and their interactions.These results indicated that targeted silvicultural interventions,such as thinning,can be implemented to enhance drought resistance specifically for large L.principis-rupprechtii trees and small P.sylvestris var.mongolica trees in medium and high competition stands,and small P.meyeri trees in high competition stands.Our results highlight that properly conducted thinning can in some cases enhance growth resistance to droughts,depending on stand density,tree size,and tree species.
基金partly funded by Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grant no. 2016-09363 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (Washington, DC) to FQZby the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch grant VT-H02503 to JK.
文摘Background Mastitis is known to alter milk lipid yield,but its effects on lipid composition in blood and milk remain less understood.This study investigated changes in fatty acid(FA)composition in blood lipid fractions and milk of dairy cows following an intramammary lipopolysaccharide(LPS)challenge and explored potential links associated with these changes.We hypothesized that intramammary LPS infusion would alter the FA composition of blood lipid fractions,and that milk FA composition would reflect these changes.Furthermore,we hypothesized that prostaglandin E2(PGE2)would be associated with changes in both blood and milk FA composition,functioning as a potential mediator of these changes.Results Ten lactating cows were split into two groups.The treatment group received intramammary infusions of 50μg Escherichia coli LPS in both quarters of one udder half to induce clinical mastitis,and saline infusions in the quarters of the opposite udder half;the control group received saline infusions in one udder half only.Blood and foremilk were collected from individual cows or glands at−1,3,6,12,and 24 h post-infusion.Blood lipids were fractionated into cholesterol esters,free fatty acids(FFA),phospholipids(PL),and triacylglycerides(TAG).The FA composition was analyzed via gas-liquid chromatography.Total plasma TAG,FFA,and PGE2 concentrations were measured by colorimetric assay or ELISA.Statistical significance was determined using mixed models with Tukey's test.Lipopolysaccharide infusion did not affect total plasma TAG and FFA concentrations but increased plasma PGE2 concentrations andΔ9 desaturation indices in plasma TAG.A distinct shift in FA composition in plasma phospholipids and TAG was observed between the treatment and control groups at 6 and 12 h post-infusion.Specifically,LPS increased the proportion of n-6 polyunsaturated FA(18:2,18:3,20:3,20:4,20:5)and FA with less than 16 carbons while decreasing the saturated FA(18:0 and 20:0)in plasma TAG at 6 and 12 h.However,the milk FA composition remained unchanged.Conclusion Our findings indicate that transient intramammary LPS challenge influences systemic lipid metabolism without altering the milk FA composition,suggesting that mammary inflammatory responses affect blood lipids independently of milk lipid secretion.
文摘Helicobacter pylori infection represents a widespread chronic condition with varying prevalence influenced by race, ethnicity, and geography. The severity of H. pylori-associated diseases is determined by an array of virulence factors. Although extensive studies have been conducted globally, data on the distribution of Helicobacter pylori virulence genes in Libya remain limited, constraining insights into the pathogenicity of local strains and hindering the development of targeted interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of H. pylori infection, characterize essential virulence genes [vacA variants (s1/s2, m1/m2), cagA, and iceA1], and examine their association with gastroduodenal diseases among Libyan patients. Gastric biopsies from 144 participants were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and risk factor data were collected via questionnaires. H. pylori was detected in 63.2% of samples by PCR. The vacA gene was present in 84.6% of cases, cagA in 58.2%, and iceA1 in 29.7%. Among vacA variants, s1 allele was most common (53.2%), followed by m1 (42.9%), m2 (37.7%), and s2 (13%) alleles. Significant associations were identified between specific virulence genes and the development of gastroduodenal diseases, highlighting their role in pathogenicity. This investigation is one of Libya’s first comprehensive assessments of H. pylori virulence factors, addressing a critical epidemiological gap. The high prevalence of virulence genes suggests their potential as disease biomarkers. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of H. pylori pathogenicity within the Libyan population and establish a basis for future clinical interventions and public health strategies to manage and prevent H. pylori-associated diseases in Libya and comparable regions.
文摘Objective Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)and insulin resistance;however,the correlation between HP eradication and NAFLD remains controversial.This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of HP treatment on clinical and laboratory parameters in NAFLD patients.Methods We conducted a literature search of the PubMed,Embase,Scopus,and Web of Science databases through Septem-ber 2023 for randomized controlled trials(RCTs)examining the effect of HP treatment on NAFLD patients versus lifestyle changes alone.The primary outcome was the change in steatosis parameters.The secondary endpoints were changes in anthropometric parameters,inflammatory markers(TNF-α),and metabolic parameters(fasting blood glucose,homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance,AST/ALT,and lipid profile).The random effects model was used to calculate the standardized mean difference(SMD)with associated 95%confidence intervals(CIs)for our desired outcome.Results Four RCTs met our inclusion criteria.A total of 453 patients were included(mean age 42.8 years,58.5%males),228(50.3%)of whom were in the HP eradication group and 225(49.7%)of whom were in the lifestyle modification group.Compared with lifestyle modification alone,HP eradication had a significant effect on reducing liver steatosis and TNF-αlevels(SMD:-0.9;95%CI-14.67,-3.82,I^(2)=0%and SMD:-6.3;95%CI-9.04,-3.56,I^(2)=0%,respectively).No sig-nificant effect on other metabolic parameters was found.Conclusions HP eradication significantly reduced liver steatosis and TNF-αlevels in NAFLD patients.However,HP eradi-cation did not significantly affect other metabolic indices compared to lifestyle changes alone.
文摘BACKGROUND Sex disparities in clinical outcomes following thoracic endovascular aortic repair(TEVAR)for acute complicated type B aortic dissection(TBAD)are not well understood.AIM To evaluates the impact of sex on primary and secondary outcomes by comparing male and female cohorts undergoing TEVAR.METHODS A systematic search of PubMed,EMBASE,Cochrane Library,and ScienceDirect identified five studies involving 2572 patients(1153 males and 1419 females).The primary outcome was hospital mortality.Secondary outcomes included reintervention rates,acute kidney injury(AKI),ischemic stroke,limb ischemia,and spinal cord ischemia.Odds ratios(OR)with 95%confidence intervals(CI)were calculated using a random-effects model.Heterogeneity was assessed using the I²statistic.RESULTS The primary outcome showed no significant difference between males and females for hospital mortality(OR:1.13,95%CI:0.81-1.59,P=0.47,I2=0).Among secondary outcomes,males had a significantly higher risk of AKI(OR:1.55,95%CI:1.21-2.00,P=0.0006,I²=0).No differences were observed for reintervention rates,ischemic stroke,limb ischemia,or spinal cord ischemia.CONCLUSION Male patients undergoing TEVAR for complicated TBAD are at increased risk of AKI but show comparable outcomes to females for mortality,ischemic events,reintervention,and other complications.Future research should explore mechanisms and strategies to optimize outcomes.
基金Supported by Children’s Hospital Foundation at VCU,No.1K23HD097282(to Donowitz JR)National Institutes of Health,No.5R01AI043596(to Donowitz JR)+6 种基金Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,No.OPP1017093VA Merit Award,No.1I01BX005730VA ShEEP Grants,No.1 IS1 BX004777-01National Institutes of Health Grant,No.2R56DK115377-05A1PIDS Summer Research Scholars AwardVCU SOM Dean’s Summer Research Fellowshipand Research Career Scientist Award from the Department of Veterans Affairs,No.IK6BX004477.
文摘BACKGROUND Environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)is a subclinical condition caused by fecal-oral contamination leading to enteric inflammation and dysbiosis.Bile acids serve to facilitate lipid digestion and absorption,regulate metabolic pathways associated with childhood growth and inflammation,and may be affected by EED.AIM To investigate bile acid metabolism in Bangladeshi children with EED and its association with growth impairment.METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 100 Bangladeshi infants(aged 6-9 months)and quantified serum and fecal bile acids using LC-MS/MS.We compared profiles to a control group of 6 American children(6-12 months)and 80 older Bangladeshi children(aged 2 years).RESULTS Bangladeshi infants had higher levels of plasma unconjugated primary(65.23%vs 44.25%,P=0.003)and sulfated primary bile acids(12.98%vs<0.001%,P=0.01),with lower primary conjugated bile acids(0.69%vs 2.74%,P≤0.001)compared to American children.Stool unconjugated primary bile acids were inversely associated with weight-for-age[regression coefficient(β)=-0.01,P=0.01]and height-for-age Z scores(β=-0.01,P=0.03).Conjugated secondary bile acids were inversely associated with small intestine bacterial overgrowth(β=-1096.68,P=0.05).Fecal myeloperoxidase was associated with sulfated secondary bile acids(β=-0.40,P=0.04).Compared to 2-year-old children,the Bangladeshi infant’s serum had higher levels of unconjugated primary bile acids(65.23%vs 9.20%,P≤0.001)and lower levels of primary conjugated bile acids(0.69%vs 80.38%,P≤0.001).CONCLUSION Our data suggests an age-dependent defect in conjugation of primary bile acids in Bangladeshi children with compensatory hydrophilic shunting.Additionally,bile acid profiles are associated with intestinal overgrowth.
文摘具有通配符间隙约束的模式匹配问题在信息检索、计算生物学和序列模式挖掘等研究领域有重要的应用.提出了更一般性的模式匹配问题,即一般间隙和长度约束的严格模式匹配(strict pattern matching with general gaps and length constraints,简称SPANGLO).该问题具有如下4个特点:它是一种严格的精确模式匹配;允许序列中任意位置的字符被多次使用;模式串中可以包含多个一般间隙;对出现的总体长度进行了约束.最坏情况下,一个SPANGLO实例将转换出指数个非负间隙的严格模式匹配实例.为了有效地解决该问题,提出了子网树及其相关概念和性质.在此基础上提出了求解算法SubnettreeSpanglo(SETS),并给出算法的正确性和完备性证明,同时指出该算法的空间复杂度与时间复杂度分别为O(m MaxLen W)和O(MaxLen W m2 n),其中,m,n,MaxLen和W分别是模式和序列的长度、出现的最大长度约束和模式的最大间距.实验结果既验证了SPANGLO问题转换方法的正确性,又验证了该算法的正确性和有效性.
