The first liver transplantation(LT)in humans was performed by Thomas Starzl on March 1,1963[1,2](Fig.1).During the period 1963-1983,this challenging procedure was performed in four centers only,one in the USA and thre...The first liver transplantation(LT)in humans was performed by Thomas Starzl on March 1,1963[1,2](Fig.1).During the period 1963-1983,this challenging procedure was performed in four centers only,one in the USA and three in Western Europe:Denver,Cambridge,Hannover and Groningen.Their collected experience including only 540 cases(meaning 27(!)cases yearly)was the basis of the 1983 National Institutes of Health(NIH)development consensus conference leading to the conclusion that LT could become“a promising alternative to the current therapy in the management of the late phase of several forms of serious liver disease…candidates are those who exhausted alternative medical and surgical treatments…and are approaching the terminal phase of their illness”.Patients presenting liver tumors and inherited,liver based,metabolic diseases could also be considered for LT[3].This conference put forward ten absolute and five relative contraindications restricting thereby the access to LT to a minority of very well selected liver diseased patients.展开更多
Solid oxide fuel cells(SOFCs)are widely presented as a sustainable solution to future energy challenges.Nevertheless,solid oxide fuel cells presently rely on significant use of several critical raw materials to enable...Solid oxide fuel cells(SOFCs)are widely presented as a sustainable solution to future energy challenges.Nevertheless,solid oxide fuel cells presently rely on significant use of several critical raw materials to enable optimized electrode reaction kinetics.This challenge can be addressed by using thinfilm electrode materials;however,this is typically accompanied by complex device fabrication procedures as well as poor mechanical/chemical stability.In this work,we conduct a systematic study of a range of promising thin-film electrode materials based on vertically aligned nanocomposite(VAN)thin films.We demonstrate low area specific resistance(ASR)values of 0.44 cm^(2) at 650℃ can be achieved using(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3)-(Sm_(2)O_(3))_(0.20)(CeO_(2))_(0.80)(LSCF-SDC)thin films,which are also characterized by a low degradation rate,approximately half that of planar LSCF thin films.We then integrate these(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3)-(Sm_(2)O_(3))_(0.20)(CeO_(2))_(0.80) vertically aligned nanocomposite films directly with commercial anode supported half cells through a single-step deposition process.The resulting cells exhibit peak power density of 0.47W cm^(-2) at 750℃,competitive with 0.64W cm^(-2) achieved for the same cells operating with a bulk(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3) cathode,despite 99.5% reduction in cathode critical raw material use.By demonstrating such competitive performance using thin-film cathode functional layers,this work also paves the way for further cost reductions in solid oxide fuel cells,which could be achieved by likewise applying thin-film architectures to the anode functional layer and/or current collecting layers,which typically account for the greatest materials cost in solid oxide fuel cell stacks.Therefore,the present work marks a valuable step towards the sustainable proliferation of solid oxide fuel cells.展开更多
Background: Despite considerable advancements in identifying factors contributing to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), the pathogenesis of HCC remains unclear. In many cases, HCC is a consequence of pr...Background: Despite considerable advancements in identifying factors contributing to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), the pathogenesis of HCC remains unclear. In many cases, HCC is a consequence of prolonged liver fibrosis, resulting in the formation of an intricate premalignant microenvironment. The accumulation of extracellular matrix(ECM) is a hallmark of premalignant microenvironment. Given the critical role of different matrix components in regulating cell phenotype and function, this study aimed to elucidate the interplay between the fibrotic matrix and malignant features in HCC. Methods: Liver tissues from both control(normal) and carbon tetrachloride(CCl_(4))-induced fibrotic rats were decellularized using sodium dodecyl sulfate(SDS) and Triton X-100. The resulting hydrogel from decellularized ECM was processed into micro-particles via the water-in-oil emulsion method. Microparticles were subsequently incorporated into three-dimensional liver biomimetic micro-tissues(MTs) comprising Huh-7 cells, human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs), and LX-2 cells. The MTs were evaluated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium(MTS) assay at day 11, immunofluorescence staining, immunoblotting, and spheroid migration assay at day 14 after co-culture. Results: Fibrotic matrix from CCl4-treated rat livers significantly enhanced the growth rate of the MTs and their expression of CCND1 as compared to the normal one. Fibrotic matrix, also induced the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition(EMT)-associated genes such as TWIST1, ACTA2, MMP9, CDH2, and VIMENTIN in the MTs as compared to the normal matrix. Conversely, the expression of CDH1 and hepatic maturation genes HNF4A, ALB, CYP3A4 was decreased in the MTs when the fibrotic matrix was used. Furthermore, the fibrotic matrix increased the migration of the MTs and their secretion of alpha-fetoprotein. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a regulatory role for the fibrotic matrix in promoting cancerous phenotype, which could potentially accelerate the progression of malignancy in the liver.展开更多
Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological lesion, characterized by the progressive accumulation of extracellularmatrix （ECM） in the perisinusoidal space and it is a major problem in chronic liver diseases. Phenotypicactiva...Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological lesion, characterized by the progressive accumulation of extracellularmatrix （ECM） in the perisinusoidal space and it is a major problem in chronic liver diseases. Phenotypicactivation of hepatic stellate cells （HSC） plays a central role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Retardation of proliferation and clearance of activated HSCs from the injured liver is an appropriate therapeuticstrategy for the resolution and treatment of hepatic fibrosis. Clearance of activated HSCs from the injuredliver by autophagy inhibitors, proapoptotic agents and senescence inducers with the high affinity towardthe activated HSCs may be the novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis in the nearfuture.展开更多
Brucella suis is responsible for swine brucellosis worldwide. Of the five different B. suis biovars （by.）, bv. 2 appears restricted to Europe where it is frequently isolated from wild boar and hares, can infect pigs...Brucella suis is responsible for swine brucellosis worldwide. Of the five different B. suis biovars （by.）, bv. 2 appears restricted to Europe where it is frequently isolated from wild boar and hares, can infect pigs and can cause human brucellosis. In this study, the differ- ential gene expression profile was characterized in spleens of Eurasian wild boar naturally infected with B. suis bv. 2. Of the 20,201 genes analyzed in the microarray, 633 and 1,373 were significantly （fold change 〉 1.8; P 〈 0.01） upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in infected wild boar. The analysis was focused on genes that were over represented after conditional test for biological process gene ontology. Upregulated genes suggested that B. suis bv. 2 infection induced cell maturation, migration and/or proliferation in infected animals. The genes downregulated in infected wild boar impaired the activity of several important cellular metabolic pathways such as metabolism, cytoskeleton organization and biogenesis, immune response and lysosomal function and vesicle-mediated transport. In addition, the response to stress, sperm fertility, muscle development and apoptosis seemed to be also impaired in infected animals. These results suggested that B. suis bv. 2 may use strategies similar to other smooth brucellae to facilitate intracellular multiplication and the development of chronic infections. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the analysis of gene expression profile in hosts infected with B. suis bv. 2, which is important to understand the molecular mechanisms at the host-pathogen interface in the main reservoir species with possible implications in the zoonotic cycle of the pathogen.展开更多
Since its’first applications in clinical pediatric and adult liver transplantation practice by Strong et al.and Makuuchi in 1989[1,2],living donor liver transplantation(LDLT)has been an ever increasing part of the to...Since its’first applications in clinical pediatric and adult liver transplantation practice by Strong et al.and Makuuchi in 1989[1,2],living donor liver transplantation(LDLT)has been an ever increasing part of the today’s practice of liver transplantation.Based on different donor demographics(living donation vs.deceased donation)and on much larger experiences with partial liver resection(aggressive resection in cirrhotic patients versus non-surgical,locoregional treatments),LDLT merely developped in Asian countries.Indeed nowadays,this technique accounts for more than 90%of the transplantation activity in the Eastern hemisphere,whereas it accounts only for 5%of activities in the Western one[3,4].展开更多
Background: During the last decades, deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) has gained a place in the therapeutic algorithm of well-selected patients harbouring non-resectable secondary liver tumors. Living-donor...Background: During the last decades, deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) has gained a place in the therapeutic algorithm of well-selected patients harbouring non-resectable secondary liver tumors. Living-donor LT (LDLT) might represent a valuable means to further expand this indication for LT. Methods: Between 1985 and 2016, twenty-two adults were transplanted because of neuroendocrine ( n = 18, 82%) and colorectal metastases ( n = 4, 18%);50% received DDLT and 50% LDLT. In LDLT, 4 (36%) right and 7 (64%) left grafts were used;the median graft-to-recipient-weight ratios (GRWR) were 1.03%(IQR 0.86%- 1.30%) and 0.59%(IQR 0.51%- 0.91%), respectively. Median post-LT follow-up was 64 months (IQR 17–107) in the DDLT group and 40 months (IQR 35–116) in the LDLT group. DDLT and LDLT recipients were compared in terms of overall survival, graft survival, postoperative complications and recurrence. Results: The 1- and 5-year actuarial patient survivals were 82% and 55% after DDLT, 100% and 100% after LDLT, respectively ( P < 0.01). One- and 5-year actuarial graft survivals were 73% and 36% after DDLT, 91% and 91% after LDLT ( P < 0.01). The outcomes of right or left LDLT were comparable. Donor hepatectomy proved safe, and one donor experienced a Clavien IIIb complication. Bilirubin peak was significantly lower after left hepatectomy compared with that after right hepatectomy [1.3 (IQR 1.2–2.2) vs. 3.3 (IQR 2.3–5.2) mg/dL;P = 0.02]. Conclusions: The more recent LDLT series compared favorably to our DDLT series in the treatment of secondary liver malignancies. The absence of portal hypertension and the use of smaller left grafts make recipient and donor surgeries safe. The safety of the procedures and lack of interference with the scarce allograft pool are expected to lead to a more frequent use of LDLT in the field of transplant oncology.展开更多
BACKGROUND： Proliferation of hepatic stellate cells （HSCs） plays a pivotal role in the progression of liver fibrosis conse- quent to chronic liver injury. Silibinin, a flavonoid compound, has been shown to possess ...BACKGROUND： Proliferation of hepatic stellate cells （HSCs） plays a pivotal role in the progression of liver fibrosis conse- quent to chronic liver injury. Silibinin, a flavonoid compound, has been shown to possess anti-fibrogenic effects in animal models of liver fibrosis. This was attributed to an inhibition of cell proliferation of activated HSCs. The present study was to gain insight into the molecular pathways involved in silibinin anti-fibrogenic effect. METHODS： The study was conducted on LX-2 human stellate cells treated with three concentrations of silibinin （10, 50 and 100 μmol/L） for 24 and 96 hours. At the end of the treatment cell viability and proliferation were evaluated. Protein expression of p27, p21, p53, Akt and phosphorylated-Akt was evaluated by Western blotting analysis and Ki-67 protein expression was by immunocytochemistry. Sirtuin activity was evaluated by chemiluminescence based assay. RESULTS： Silibinin inhibits LX-2 cell proliferation in doseand time-dependent manner; we showed that silibinin upregulated the protein expressions of p27 and p53. Such regulation was correlated to an inhibition of both downstream Akt and phosphorylated-Akt protein signaling and Ki-67 protein expression. Sirtuin activity also was correlated to silibinin- inhibited proliferation of LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION： The anti-proliferative effect of silibinin on LX-2 human steUate cells is via the inhibition of the expres- sions of various cell cycle targets including p27, Akt and sir- tuin signaling.展开更多
Lithium–sulfur(Li–S) batteries have received widespread attention, and lean electrolyte Li–S batteries have attracted additional interest because of their higher energy densities. This review systematically analyze...Lithium–sulfur(Li–S) batteries have received widespread attention, and lean electrolyte Li–S batteries have attracted additional interest because of their higher energy densities. This review systematically analyzes the effect of the electrolyte-to-sulfur(E/S) ratios on battery energy density and the challenges for sulfur reduction reactions(SRR) under lean electrolyte conditions. Accordingly, we review the use of various polar transition metal sulfur hosts as corresponding solutions to facilitate SRR kinetics at low E/S ratios(< 10 μL mg~(-1)), and the strengths and limitations of different transition metal compounds are presented and discussed from a fundamental perspective. Subsequently, three promising strategies for sulfur hosts that act as anchors and catalysts are proposed to boost lean electrolyte Li–S battery performance. Finally, an outlook is provided to guide future research on high energy density Li–S batteries.展开更多
The spermatozoon is the most diverse cell type known and this diversity is considered to reflect differences in sperm function. How the diversity in sperm morphology arose during speciation and what role the different...The spermatozoon is the most diverse cell type known and this diversity is considered to reflect differences in sperm function. How the diversity in sperm morphology arose during speciation and what role the different specializations play in sperm function, however, remain incompletely characterized. This work reviews the hypotheses proposed to explain sperm morphological evolution, with a focus on some aspects of sperm morphometric evaluation; the ability of morphometrics to predict sperm cryoresistance and male fertility is also discussed. For this, the evaluation of patterns of change of sperm head morphometry throughout a process, instead of the study of the morphometric characteristics of the sperm head at different stages, allows a better identification of the males with different sperm cryoconservation ability. These new approaches, together with more studies employing a greater number of individuals, are needed to obtain novel results concerning the role of sperm morphometry on sperm function. Future studies should aim at understanding the causes of sperm design diversity and the mechanisms that generate them, giving increased attention to other sperm structures besides the sperm head. The implementation of scientific and technological advances could benefit the simultaneous examination of sperm phenotype and sperm function, demonstrating that sperm morphometry could be a useful tool for sperm assessment.展开更多
Background Artificial insemination(AI)is a routine breeding technology in animal reproduction.Nevertheless,the temperature-sensitive nature and short fertile lifespan of ram sperm samples hamper its use in AI.In this ...Background Artificial insemination(AI)is a routine breeding technology in animal reproduction.Nevertheless,the temperature-sensitive nature and short fertile lifespan of ram sperm samples hamper its use in AI.In this sense,nanotechnology is an interesting tool to improve sperm protection due to the development of nanomaterials for AI,which could be used as delivery vehicles.In this work,we explored the feasibility of vitamin E nanoemulsion(NE)for improving sperm quality during transport.Results With the aim of evaluating this proposal,ejaculates of 7 mature rams of Manchega breed were collected by artificial vagina and extended to 60×10^(6)spz/mL in AndromedR.Samples containing control and NE(12 mmol/L)with and without exogenous oxidative stress(100μmol/L Fe2+/ascorbate)were stored at 22 and 15℃and motility(CASA),viability(YO-PRO/PI),acrosomal integrity(PNA-FITC/PI),mitochondrial membrane potential(Mitotracker Deep Red 633),lipoperoxidation(C11 BODIPY 581/591),intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)production and DNA status(SCSAR)monitored during 96 h.Our results show that NE could be used to maintain ram spermatozoa during transport at 15 and 22℃for up to 96 h,with no appreciable loss of kinematic and physiological characteristics of freshly collected samples.Conclusions The storage of ram spermatozoa in liquid form for 2-5 d with vitamin E nanoemulsions may lead more flexibility to breeders in AI programs.In view of the potential and high versatility of these nanodevices,further studies are being carried out to assess the proposed sperm preservation medium on fertility after artificial insemination.展开更多
Invasive candidiasis (IC) is an emerging opportunistic fungal infection associated with high mortality among hospitalized patients. Although the epidemiology of IC is progressively changing worldwide, the trend in Afr...Invasive candidiasis (IC) is an emerging opportunistic fungal infection associated with high mortality among hospitalized patients. Although the epidemiology of IC is progressively changing worldwide, the trend in Africa still needs to be established. This review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology of IC in Western region of Africa. A comprehensive literature search was performed on major electronic databases to identify relevant articles. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was used to pool overall prevalence and estimated incidence data. We identified 1975 articles, among which 23 met our inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Available data showed that only 50% (8/16) of West African countries were reported data on IC and only 25% reported at least one laboratory confirmed IC case. The global prevalence of candidemia and non-candidemic deep-seated candidiasis were 0.35% [95% CI 0.23;0.47] and 0.32% [95% CI 0.00;2.03], respectively. Among clinical IC cases, only 5.21% were reported before 2010, while 50.08% were reported in the past 5 years. The pooled estimated incidence was 5.55/100,000 [95% CI 5.46;5.64] and 1.15/100,000 [95% CI 1.11;1.19, 95% CI]/inhabitants for candidemia, and Candida peritonitis, respectively. The case fatality rate was 57.58%. Low gestational age, exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics and invasive procedures were associated with a higher risk of IC in newborn patients. Candida albicans (32.98%) was the most common causative species of IC followed by C. tropicalis (11.34%) and C. parapsilosis (6.19%). This study showed the scarcity of IC data in western region of Africa and the existence of undiagnosed IC cases.展开更多
Although Starzl designed in the 1960’s liver transplantation(LT)to treat unresectable primary and also secondary liver tumors,transplantation still occupies a(too)small place in the respective therapeutic algorithms[...Although Starzl designed in the 1960’s liver transplantation(LT)to treat unresectable primary and also secondary liver tumors,transplantation still occupies a(too)small place in the respective therapeutic algorithms[1].Due to the lack of(any)selection criteria,the concept of transplantation became rapidly challenged because of the prohibitively high incidence of tumor recurrence[1–3].展开更多
<strong>Purpose:</strong> Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is comorbid to obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is unclear whether NAFLD constitutes a direct risk factor for m...<strong>Purpose:</strong> Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is comorbid to obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is unclear whether NAFLD constitutes a direct risk factor for macrovascular disease in T2DM. This study aimed at revisiting the cardiometabolic traits linked to NADL and micro-/ macrovascular complications in a biethnic Caucasian and African cohort. <strong>Methods: </strong>Cross-sectional analysis of 568 of T2DM patients (515 Caucasians;53 Africans) in whom the presence of NAFL was identified by ultrasonography and the cardiometabolic phenotype was exhaustively characterized, including carbohydrate homeostasis, comprehensive lipidogram including Lp(a), cumulative exposure to hyperglycemia, and prevalent micro/macrovascular complications. <strong>Results:</strong> FL was present in 73% of Caucasians and 36% of Africans (p < 0.0001). FL+ were more obese, more atherogenic dyslipidemic (Caucasians) and had lower lipoprotein(a) (Africans). All-cause macroangiopathy, ischemic heart disease or stroke did not significantly differ between FL+ and FL<span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> in both groups. A marked reduction in diabetic retinopathy (DR), ocular hypertonia and cataracts were found in FL+ of the two ethnicities. In FL+ Caucasians, relative risk of DR was <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>38%, cataracts <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>35%, and ocular hypertonia <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>42%. In FL+ Africans, risk of overall microangiopathy was <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>66% and that of DR <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>86%.<strong> Conclusions:</strong> An inverse association was observed between NAFL and the presence of diabetic retinopathy, cataract and ocular hypertonia. The ophthalmoprotection conferred by liver steatosis was found in Caucasians and Africans. Among the latter, hepatic steatosis was linked to lower lipoprotein(a) levels. There was no association between hepatic steatosis and prevalent macrovascular complications in neither of the two ethnic groups.展开更多
This paper discusses the controversial management decisions made by policy-makers worldwide regarding poisoning campaigns aimed to control small mammal populations, often considered harmful economic pests. Aside from ...This paper discusses the controversial management decisions made by policy-makers worldwide regarding poisoning campaigns aimed to control small mammal populations, often considered harmful economic pests. Aside from considerations re- garding the biological consequences of these campaigns, we argue that when society rejects all values of science and expertise then only badly supported and negligent decisions will be made about conservation and management issues. The extermination of small mammal species, some of which play crucial ecological roles in several regions of the world, is just an example of such discredit and misinformation. Without a strong commitment towards evidence-based policy-making, economic investments in re- search and development could be entirely compromised展开更多
Arterial switch operation(ASO)is a complex neonatal operation in which transfer of the coronary arteries origins is the key to success.Coronary events after a successful ASO are not uncommon.We describe a rare case of...Arterial switch operation(ASO)is a complex neonatal operation in which transfer of the coronary arteries origins is the key to success.Coronary events after a successful ASO are not uncommon.We describe a rare case of a child who underwent an ASO in the neonatal period with one coronary(LAD)described as atretic left in place.At age seven,he developed myocardial ischemia due to retrograde flow with a steal phenomenon from the LAD into the pulmonary artery.The patient underwent a late LAD reimplantation.This case underscores that even very small ostia should be translocated at the time of ASO.展开更多
Background: Hereditary transthyretin(ATTRv) amyloidosis is an autosomal dominant disease linked to transthyretin gene mutations which cause instability of the transthyretin tetramer. After dissociation and misfolding ...Background: Hereditary transthyretin(ATTRv) amyloidosis is an autosomal dominant disease linked to transthyretin gene mutations which cause instability of the transthyretin tetramer. After dissociation and misfolding they reassemble as insoluble fibrils(i.e. amyloid). Apart from the common Val30 Met mutation there is a very heterogeneous group of non-Val30 Met mutations. In some cases, the clinical picture is dominated by a rapidly evolving restrictive and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Methods: A case series of four liver recipients with the highly clinically relevant, rare and particularly aggressive Val122 del mutation is presented. Medical and surgical therapeutic options, waiting list policy for ATTRv-amyloidosis, including the need for heart transplantation, and status of heart-liver transplantation are discussed. Results: Three patients needed a staged(1 patient) or simultaneous(2 patients) heart-liver transplant due to rapidly progressing cardiac failure and/or neurologic disability. Domino liver transplantation was impossible in two due to fibrotic hepatic transformation caused by cardiomyopathy. After a follow-up ranging from 3.5 to 9.5 years, cardiac(allograft) function was maintained in all patients, but neuropathy progressed in three patients, one of whom died after 80 months. Conclusions: This is the first report in(liver) transplant literature about the rare Val122 del ATTRv mutation. Due to its aggressiveness, symptomatic patients should be prioritized on the liver and, in cases with cardiomyopathy, heart waiting lists in order to avoid the irreversible neurological and cardiac damage that leads to a rapid lethal outcome.展开更多
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components have been linked to elevated serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha. The aim of ...Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components have been linked to elevated serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha. The aim of our study was to address the association between MetS components with serum hs-CRP and IL-6 levels among Congolese adults. A total of 357 participants (aged 30 - 87 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. Anthropometrics were collected and fasting blood sampled for assessment of fasting blood glycaemia (FBG), lipids and inflammatory parameters using commercially available assays. NCEP-ATPIII criteria were used to define MetS. The Median (IQR) hs-CRP and IL-6 levels were higher in participants with MetS than in those without ([7 (4, 14) versus 6 (4, 8)] mg/L;p = 0.092 and [23.8 (20.9, 27.6) versus 22.3 (19.5, 25.0)] pg/mL;p = 0.002). hs-CRP and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in females with MetS than in those without, but not in males. Among participants, only TG was correlated with hs-CRP (r = 0.149, p = 0.007), and a significant correlation was observed between TG (r = 0.116, p = 0.037), FBG (r = 0.208, p = 0.000), HDL-C (r = −0.119, p = 0.034) and SBP (r = 0.143, p = 0.010) and IL-6. In males, hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with TG (0.316;p = 0.000), negatively with HDL-C (r = −0.290, p = 0.0022), without such correlations in females. In Ames, IL-6 levels were positively correlated with FBG (r = 0.202;p = 0.035), and negatively with HDL-C (r = −0.249, p = 0.009). Significant correlations between IL-6 levels and FBG (r = 0.214;p = 0.000) or SBP (r = 0.227, p = 0.000) were observed in females. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify the relationship between MetS components and hs-CRP or IL-6. Values of area under receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves suggest potential use of serum hs-CRP (AUC = 0.675) and IL-6 (AUC = 0.656) as diagnostic biomarkers of MetS. Combination of hs-CRP and IL-6 improved diagnosis accuracy, yielding a 0.698 ROC curve area. MetS components are associated with hs-CRP and IL-6 levels among adults Congolese. Combining the two biomarkers hs-CRP and IL-6 improves Mets diagnostic accuracy compared to hs-CRP or IL-6 alone.展开更多
文摘The first liver transplantation(LT)in humans was performed by Thomas Starzl on March 1,1963[1,2](Fig.1).During the period 1963-1983,this challenging procedure was performed in four centers only,one in the USA and three in Western Europe:Denver,Cambridge,Hannover and Groningen.Their collected experience including only 540 cases(meaning 27(!)cases yearly)was the basis of the 1983 National Institutes of Health(NIH)development consensus conference leading to the conclusion that LT could become“a promising alternative to the current therapy in the management of the late phase of several forms of serious liver disease…candidates are those who exhausted alternative medical and surgical treatments…and are approaching the terminal phase of their illness”.Patients presenting liver tumors and inherited,liver based,metabolic diseases could also be considered for LT[3].This conference put forward ten absolute and five relative contraindications restricting thereby the access to LT to a minority of very well selected liver diseased patients.
基金support from the Royal Academy of Engineering Chair in Emerging technologies(grant number CIET1819_24)the EPSRC Centre of Advanced Materials for Integrated Energy Systems(CAM-IES)(grant number EP/P007767/1)+2 种基金the EU-H2020-ERC-ADG EROS(grant number 882929)support provided by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft(Project no.424789449,grant no.HA1344-45-1)support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement no.836503.We acknowledge use of the Thermo Fisher Spectra 300 TEM at the Wolfson Electron Microscopy Suite at the University of Cambridge funded by EPSRC under grant EP/R008779/1.
文摘Solid oxide fuel cells(SOFCs)are widely presented as a sustainable solution to future energy challenges.Nevertheless,solid oxide fuel cells presently rely on significant use of several critical raw materials to enable optimized electrode reaction kinetics.This challenge can be addressed by using thinfilm electrode materials;however,this is typically accompanied by complex device fabrication procedures as well as poor mechanical/chemical stability.In this work,we conduct a systematic study of a range of promising thin-film electrode materials based on vertically aligned nanocomposite(VAN)thin films.We demonstrate low area specific resistance(ASR)values of 0.44 cm^(2) at 650℃ can be achieved using(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3)-(Sm_(2)O_(3))_(0.20)(CeO_(2))_(0.80)(LSCF-SDC)thin films,which are also characterized by a low degradation rate,approximately half that of planar LSCF thin films.We then integrate these(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3)-(Sm_(2)O_(3))_(0.20)(CeO_(2))_(0.80) vertically aligned nanocomposite films directly with commercial anode supported half cells through a single-step deposition process.The resulting cells exhibit peak power density of 0.47W cm^(-2) at 750℃,competitive with 0.64W cm^(-2) achieved for the same cells operating with a bulk(La_(0.60)Sr_(0.40))_(0.95)Co_(0.20)Fe_(0.80)O_(3) cathode,despite 99.5% reduction in cathode critical raw material use.By demonstrating such competitive performance using thin-film cathode functional layers,this work also paves the way for further cost reductions in solid oxide fuel cells,which could be achieved by likewise applying thin-film architectures to the anode functional layer and/or current collecting layers,which typically account for the greatest materials cost in solid oxide fuel cell stacks.Therefore,the present work marks a valuable step towards the sustainable proliferation of solid oxide fuel cells.
基金financially supported by grants from Royan In-stitute(grant No.400000200)Bahar Tashkhis Teb Co.(BTT,9703,9809,and 9903)。
文摘Background: Despite considerable advancements in identifying factors contributing to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), the pathogenesis of HCC remains unclear. In many cases, HCC is a consequence of prolonged liver fibrosis, resulting in the formation of an intricate premalignant microenvironment. The accumulation of extracellular matrix(ECM) is a hallmark of premalignant microenvironment. Given the critical role of different matrix components in regulating cell phenotype and function, this study aimed to elucidate the interplay between the fibrotic matrix and malignant features in HCC. Methods: Liver tissues from both control(normal) and carbon tetrachloride(CCl_(4))-induced fibrotic rats were decellularized using sodium dodecyl sulfate(SDS) and Triton X-100. The resulting hydrogel from decellularized ECM was processed into micro-particles via the water-in-oil emulsion method. Microparticles were subsequently incorporated into three-dimensional liver biomimetic micro-tissues(MTs) comprising Huh-7 cells, human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs), and LX-2 cells. The MTs were evaluated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium(MTS) assay at day 11, immunofluorescence staining, immunoblotting, and spheroid migration assay at day 14 after co-culture. Results: Fibrotic matrix from CCl4-treated rat livers significantly enhanced the growth rate of the MTs and their expression of CCND1 as compared to the normal one. Fibrotic matrix, also induced the expression of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition(EMT)-associated genes such as TWIST1, ACTA2, MMP9, CDH2, and VIMENTIN in the MTs as compared to the normal matrix. Conversely, the expression of CDH1 and hepatic maturation genes HNF4A, ALB, CYP3A4 was decreased in the MTs when the fibrotic matrix was used. Furthermore, the fibrotic matrix increased the migration of the MTs and their secretion of alpha-fetoprotein. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a regulatory role for the fibrotic matrix in promoting cancerous phenotype, which could potentially accelerate the progression of malignancy in the liver.
文摘Hepatic fibrosis is a pathological lesion, characterized by the progressive accumulation of extracellularmatrix （ECM） in the perisinusoidal space and it is a major problem in chronic liver diseases. Phenotypicactivation of hepatic stellate cells （HSC） plays a central role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Retardation of proliferation and clearance of activated HSCs from the injured liver is an appropriate therapeuticstrategy for the resolution and treatment of hepatic fibrosis. Clearance of activated HSCs from the injuredliver by autophagy inhibitors, proapoptotic agents and senescence inducers with the high affinity towardthe activated HSCs may be the novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of hepatic fibrosis in the nearfuture.
基金supported by the Grupo Santander and Fundación Marcelino Botín,Spain (Project Control of Tu-berculosis in Wildlife), Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia (MECProject AGL2005-07401)FEDER,Spain. R.C. Galindo was funded by MEC,Spain
文摘Brucella suis is responsible for swine brucellosis worldwide. Of the five different B. suis biovars （by.）, bv. 2 appears restricted to Europe where it is frequently isolated from wild boar and hares, can infect pigs and can cause human brucellosis. In this study, the differ- ential gene expression profile was characterized in spleens of Eurasian wild boar naturally infected with B. suis bv. 2. Of the 20,201 genes analyzed in the microarray, 633 and 1,373 were significantly （fold change 〉 1.8; P 〈 0.01） upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in infected wild boar. The analysis was focused on genes that were over represented after conditional test for biological process gene ontology. Upregulated genes suggested that B. suis bv. 2 infection induced cell maturation, migration and/or proliferation in infected animals. The genes downregulated in infected wild boar impaired the activity of several important cellular metabolic pathways such as metabolism, cytoskeleton organization and biogenesis, immune response and lysosomal function and vesicle-mediated transport. In addition, the response to stress, sperm fertility, muscle development and apoptosis seemed to be also impaired in infected animals. These results suggested that B. suis bv. 2 may use strategies similar to other smooth brucellae to facilitate intracellular multiplication and the development of chronic infections. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the analysis of gene expression profile in hosts infected with B. suis bv. 2, which is important to understand the molecular mechanisms at the host-pathogen interface in the main reservoir species with possible implications in the zoonotic cycle of the pathogen.
文摘Since its’first applications in clinical pediatric and adult liver transplantation practice by Strong et al.and Makuuchi in 1989[1,2],living donor liver transplantation(LDLT)has been an ever increasing part of the today’s practice of liver transplantation.Based on different donor demographics(living donation vs.deceased donation)and on much larger experiences with partial liver resection(aggressive resection in cirrhotic patients versus non-surgical,locoregional treatments),LDLT merely developped in Asian countries.Indeed nowadays,this technique accounts for more than 90%of the transplantation activity in the Eastern hemisphere,whereas it accounts only for 5%of activities in the Western one[3,4].
文摘Background: During the last decades, deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) has gained a place in the therapeutic algorithm of well-selected patients harbouring non-resectable secondary liver tumors. Living-donor LT (LDLT) might represent a valuable means to further expand this indication for LT. Methods: Between 1985 and 2016, twenty-two adults were transplanted because of neuroendocrine ( n = 18, 82%) and colorectal metastases ( n = 4, 18%);50% received DDLT and 50% LDLT. In LDLT, 4 (36%) right and 7 (64%) left grafts were used;the median graft-to-recipient-weight ratios (GRWR) were 1.03%(IQR 0.86%- 1.30%) and 0.59%(IQR 0.51%- 0.91%), respectively. Median post-LT follow-up was 64 months (IQR 17–107) in the DDLT group and 40 months (IQR 35–116) in the LDLT group. DDLT and LDLT recipients were compared in terms of overall survival, graft survival, postoperative complications and recurrence. Results: The 1- and 5-year actuarial patient survivals were 82% and 55% after DDLT, 100% and 100% after LDLT, respectively ( P < 0.01). One- and 5-year actuarial graft survivals were 73% and 36% after DDLT, 91% and 91% after LDLT ( P < 0.01). The outcomes of right or left LDLT were comparable. Donor hepatectomy proved safe, and one donor experienced a Clavien IIIb complication. Bilirubin peak was significantly lower after left hepatectomy compared with that after right hepatectomy [1.3 (IQR 1.2–2.2) vs. 3.3 (IQR 2.3–5.2) mg/dL;P = 0.02]. Conclusions: The more recent LDLT series compared favorably to our DDLT series in the treatment of secondary liver malignancies. The absence of portal hypertension and the use of smaller left grafts make recipient and donor surgeries safe. The safety of the procedures and lack of interference with the scarce allograft pool are expected to lead to a more frequent use of LDLT in the field of transplant oncology.
文摘BACKGROUND： Proliferation of hepatic stellate cells （HSCs） plays a pivotal role in the progression of liver fibrosis conse- quent to chronic liver injury. Silibinin, a flavonoid compound, has been shown to possess anti-fibrogenic effects in animal models of liver fibrosis. This was attributed to an inhibition of cell proliferation of activated HSCs. The present study was to gain insight into the molecular pathways involved in silibinin anti-fibrogenic effect. METHODS： The study was conducted on LX-2 human stellate cells treated with three concentrations of silibinin （10, 50 and 100 μmol/L） for 24 and 96 hours. At the end of the treatment cell viability and proliferation were evaluated. Protein expression of p27, p21, p53, Akt and phosphorylated-Akt was evaluated by Western blotting analysis and Ki-67 protein expression was by immunocytochemistry. Sirtuin activity was evaluated by chemiluminescence based assay. RESULTS： Silibinin inhibits LX-2 cell proliferation in doseand time-dependent manner; we showed that silibinin upregulated the protein expressions of p27 and p53. Such regulation was correlated to an inhibition of both downstream Akt and phosphorylated-Akt protein signaling and Ki-67 protein expression. Sirtuin activity also was correlated to silibinin- inhibited proliferation of LX-2 cells. CONCLUSION： The anti-proliferative effect of silibinin on LX-2 human steUate cells is via the inhibition of the expres- sions of various cell cycle targets including p27, Akt and sir- tuin signaling.
基金the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO) for a Research Project (G0B3218N)the financial support by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (22005054)+3 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province (2021J01149)State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry (20200007)Sichuan Science and Technology Program (project No.: 2022ZYD0016 and 2023JDRC0013)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (project No. 21776120)。
文摘Lithium–sulfur(Li–S) batteries have received widespread attention, and lean electrolyte Li–S batteries have attracted additional interest because of their higher energy densities. This review systematically analyzes the effect of the electrolyte-to-sulfur(E/S) ratios on battery energy density and the challenges for sulfur reduction reactions(SRR) under lean electrolyte conditions. Accordingly, we review the use of various polar transition metal sulfur hosts as corresponding solutions to facilitate SRR kinetics at low E/S ratios(< 10 μL mg~(-1)), and the strengths and limitations of different transition metal compounds are presented and discussed from a fundamental perspective. Subsequently, three promising strategies for sulfur hosts that act as anchors and catalysts are proposed to boost lean electrolyte Li–S battery performance. Finally, an outlook is provided to guide future research on high energy density Li–S batteries.
文摘The spermatozoon is the most diverse cell type known and this diversity is considered to reflect differences in sperm function. How the diversity in sperm morphology arose during speciation and what role the different specializations play in sperm function, however, remain incompletely characterized. This work reviews the hypotheses proposed to explain sperm morphological evolution, with a focus on some aspects of sperm morphometric evaluation; the ability of morphometrics to predict sperm cryoresistance and male fertility is also discussed. For this, the evaluation of patterns of change of sperm head morphometry throughout a process, instead of the study of the morphometric characteristics of the sperm head at different stages, allows a better identification of the males with different sperm cryoconservation ability. These new approaches, together with more studies employing a greater number of individuals, are needed to obtain novel results concerning the role of sperm morphometry on sperm function. Future studies should aim at understanding the causes of sperm design diversity and the mechanisms that generate them, giving increased attention to other sperm structures besides the sperm head. The implementation of scientific and technological advances could benefit the simultaneous examination of sperm phenotype and sperm function, demonstrating that sperm morphometry could be a useful tool for sperm assessment.
基金the financial support,grants AGL2017-85603-P,PID2020-120281RB-100 and PID2020-117788RB-100 funded by MCIN/AEI/10,13039/501100011033grants SBPLY/21/180501/000111 and SBPLY/21/180501/000050 funded by JCCM by EU through Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional+1 种基金supported by a UCLM scholarshipsupported by a JCCM scholarship
文摘Background Artificial insemination(AI)is a routine breeding technology in animal reproduction.Nevertheless,the temperature-sensitive nature and short fertile lifespan of ram sperm samples hamper its use in AI.In this sense,nanotechnology is an interesting tool to improve sperm protection due to the development of nanomaterials for AI,which could be used as delivery vehicles.In this work,we explored the feasibility of vitamin E nanoemulsion(NE)for improving sperm quality during transport.Results With the aim of evaluating this proposal,ejaculates of 7 mature rams of Manchega breed were collected by artificial vagina and extended to 60×10^(6)spz/mL in AndromedR.Samples containing control and NE(12 mmol/L)with and without exogenous oxidative stress(100μmol/L Fe2+/ascorbate)were stored at 22 and 15℃and motility(CASA),viability(YO-PRO/PI),acrosomal integrity(PNA-FITC/PI),mitochondrial membrane potential(Mitotracker Deep Red 633),lipoperoxidation(C11 BODIPY 581/591),intracellular reactive oxygen species(ROS)production and DNA status(SCSAR)monitored during 96 h.Our results show that NE could be used to maintain ram spermatozoa during transport at 15 and 22℃for up to 96 h,with no appreciable loss of kinematic and physiological characteristics of freshly collected samples.Conclusions The storage of ram spermatozoa in liquid form for 2-5 d with vitamin E nanoemulsions may lead more flexibility to breeders in AI programs.In view of the potential and high versatility of these nanodevices,further studies are being carried out to assess the proposed sperm preservation medium on fertility after artificial insemination.
文摘Invasive candidiasis (IC) is an emerging opportunistic fungal infection associated with high mortality among hospitalized patients. Although the epidemiology of IC is progressively changing worldwide, the trend in Africa still needs to be established. This review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology of IC in Western region of Africa. A comprehensive literature search was performed on major electronic databases to identify relevant articles. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was used to pool overall prevalence and estimated incidence data. We identified 1975 articles, among which 23 met our inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Available data showed that only 50% (8/16) of West African countries were reported data on IC and only 25% reported at least one laboratory confirmed IC case. The global prevalence of candidemia and non-candidemic deep-seated candidiasis were 0.35% [95% CI 0.23;0.47] and 0.32% [95% CI 0.00;2.03], respectively. Among clinical IC cases, only 5.21% were reported before 2010, while 50.08% were reported in the past 5 years. The pooled estimated incidence was 5.55/100,000 [95% CI 5.46;5.64] and 1.15/100,000 [95% CI 1.11;1.19, 95% CI]/inhabitants for candidemia, and Candida peritonitis, respectively. The case fatality rate was 57.58%. Low gestational age, exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics and invasive procedures were associated with a higher risk of IC in newborn patients. Candida albicans (32.98%) was the most common causative species of IC followed by C. tropicalis (11.34%) and C. parapsilosis (6.19%). This study showed the scarcity of IC data in western region of Africa and the existence of undiagnosed IC cases.
文摘Although Starzl designed in the 1960’s liver transplantation(LT)to treat unresectable primary and also secondary liver tumors,transplantation still occupies a(too)small place in the respective therapeutic algorithms[1].Due to the lack of(any)selection criteria,the concept of transplantation became rapidly challenged because of the prohibitively high incidence of tumor recurrence[1–3].
文摘<strong>Purpose:</strong> Non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is comorbid to obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is unclear whether NAFLD constitutes a direct risk factor for macrovascular disease in T2DM. This study aimed at revisiting the cardiometabolic traits linked to NADL and micro-/ macrovascular complications in a biethnic Caucasian and African cohort. <strong>Methods: </strong>Cross-sectional analysis of 568 of T2DM patients (515 Caucasians;53 Africans) in whom the presence of NAFL was identified by ultrasonography and the cardiometabolic phenotype was exhaustively characterized, including carbohydrate homeostasis, comprehensive lipidogram including Lp(a), cumulative exposure to hyperglycemia, and prevalent micro/macrovascular complications. <strong>Results:</strong> FL was present in 73% of Caucasians and 36% of Africans (p < 0.0001). FL+ were more obese, more atherogenic dyslipidemic (Caucasians) and had lower lipoprotein(a) (Africans). All-cause macroangiopathy, ischemic heart disease or stroke did not significantly differ between FL+ and FL<span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span> in both groups. A marked reduction in diabetic retinopathy (DR), ocular hypertonia and cataracts were found in FL+ of the two ethnicities. In FL+ Caucasians, relative risk of DR was <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>38%, cataracts <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>35%, and ocular hypertonia <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>42%. In FL+ Africans, risk of overall microangiopathy was <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>66% and that of DR <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>86%.<strong> Conclusions:</strong> An inverse association was observed between NAFL and the presence of diabetic retinopathy, cataract and ocular hypertonia. The ophthalmoprotection conferred by liver steatosis was found in Caucasians and Africans. Among the latter, hepatic steatosis was linked to lower lipoprotein(a) levels. There was no association between hepatic steatosis and prevalent macrovascular complications in neither of the two ethnic groups.
文摘This paper discusses the controversial management decisions made by policy-makers worldwide regarding poisoning campaigns aimed to control small mammal populations, often considered harmful economic pests. Aside from considerations re- garding the biological consequences of these campaigns, we argue that when society rejects all values of science and expertise then only badly supported and negligent decisions will be made about conservation and management issues. The extermination of small mammal species, some of which play crucial ecological roles in several regions of the world, is just an example of such discredit and misinformation. Without a strong commitment towards evidence-based policy-making, economic investments in re- search and development could be entirely compromised
文摘Arterial switch operation(ASO)is a complex neonatal operation in which transfer of the coronary arteries origins is the key to success.Coronary events after a successful ASO are not uncommon.We describe a rare case of a child who underwent an ASO in the neonatal period with one coronary(LAD)described as atretic left in place.At age seven,he developed myocardial ischemia due to retrograde flow with a steal phenomenon from the LAD into the pulmonary artery.The patient underwent a late LAD reimplantation.This case underscores that even very small ostia should be translocated at the time of ASO.
文摘Background: Hereditary transthyretin(ATTRv) amyloidosis is an autosomal dominant disease linked to transthyretin gene mutations which cause instability of the transthyretin tetramer. After dissociation and misfolding they reassemble as insoluble fibrils(i.e. amyloid). Apart from the common Val30 Met mutation there is a very heterogeneous group of non-Val30 Met mutations. In some cases, the clinical picture is dominated by a rapidly evolving restrictive and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Methods: A case series of four liver recipients with the highly clinically relevant, rare and particularly aggressive Val122 del mutation is presented. Medical and surgical therapeutic options, waiting list policy for ATTRv-amyloidosis, including the need for heart transplantation, and status of heart-liver transplantation are discussed. Results: Three patients needed a staged(1 patient) or simultaneous(2 patients) heart-liver transplant due to rapidly progressing cardiac failure and/or neurologic disability. Domino liver transplantation was impossible in two due to fibrotic hepatic transformation caused by cardiomyopathy. After a follow-up ranging from 3.5 to 9.5 years, cardiac(allograft) function was maintained in all patients, but neuropathy progressed in three patients, one of whom died after 80 months. Conclusions: This is the first report in(liver) transplant literature about the rare Val122 del ATTRv mutation. Due to its aggressiveness, symptomatic patients should be prioritized on the liver and, in cases with cardiomyopathy, heart waiting lists in order to avoid the irreversible neurological and cardiac damage that leads to a rapid lethal outcome.
文摘Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components have been linked to elevated serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha. The aim of our study was to address the association between MetS components with serum hs-CRP and IL-6 levels among Congolese adults. A total of 357 participants (aged 30 - 87 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. Anthropometrics were collected and fasting blood sampled for assessment of fasting blood glycaemia (FBG), lipids and inflammatory parameters using commercially available assays. NCEP-ATPIII criteria were used to define MetS. The Median (IQR) hs-CRP and IL-6 levels were higher in participants with MetS than in those without ([7 (4, 14) versus 6 (4, 8)] mg/L;p = 0.092 and [23.8 (20.9, 27.6) versus 22.3 (19.5, 25.0)] pg/mL;p = 0.002). hs-CRP and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in females with MetS than in those without, but not in males. Among participants, only TG was correlated with hs-CRP (r = 0.149, p = 0.007), and a significant correlation was observed between TG (r = 0.116, p = 0.037), FBG (r = 0.208, p = 0.000), HDL-C (r = −0.119, p = 0.034) and SBP (r = 0.143, p = 0.010) and IL-6. In males, hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with TG (0.316;p = 0.000), negatively with HDL-C (r = −0.290, p = 0.0022), without such correlations in females. In Ames, IL-6 levels were positively correlated with FBG (r = 0.202;p = 0.035), and negatively with HDL-C (r = −0.249, p = 0.009). Significant correlations between IL-6 levels and FBG (r = 0.214;p = 0.000) or SBP (r = 0.227, p = 0.000) were observed in females. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify the relationship between MetS components and hs-CRP or IL-6. Values of area under receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves suggest potential use of serum hs-CRP (AUC = 0.675) and IL-6 (AUC = 0.656) as diagnostic biomarkers of MetS. Combination of hs-CRP and IL-6 improved diagnosis accuracy, yielding a 0.698 ROC curve area. MetS components are associated with hs-CRP and IL-6 levels among adults Congolese. Combining the two biomarkers hs-CRP and IL-6 improves Mets diagnostic accuracy compared to hs-CRP or IL-6 alone.
