[Near-infrared light therapy ameliorates depression-induced intestinal dysfunction in rats possibly by activating PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling and increasing hippocampal BDNF expression].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of near-infrared (NIR) light therapy on depression-induced intestinal dysfunction in rats and explore the possible mechanism. METHODS: Thirty-two male SD rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, low-dose NIR light group and high-dose NIR light group. All the rats except for those in the control group were subjected to chronic restrained stress (CRS) for 4 weeks, and NIR light therapy of the head was administered in the two NIR light groups. The depression- like behaviors, intestinal functions, fecal water content and number of fecal pellets of the rats were evaluated. HE staining was used for detecting histopathological changes in the hippocampus and colon, and hippocampal expressions of BDNF, Nrf2 and PGC-1α were detected with Western blotting. RESULTS: The rats in the CRS model group showed significantly increased immobility time and visceral sensitivity in the behavioral tests, decreased fecal pellets and fecal water content, and lowered expressions of BDNF, Nrf2, and PGC-1α in the hippocampus (P<0.05). Histopathological examination of the CRS rats revealed loosely arranged hippocampal pyramidal cells, obvious neuronal damages, and obvious inflammatory cell infiltration in the colon with irregularly arranged mucosal glands and a high pathological score. High-dose NIR light therapy significantly lowered the immobility time and visceral sensitivity, increased the number of fecal pellets and fecal water content (P<0.05), and enhanced hippocampal expressions of BDNF, Nrf2, and PGC-1α (P<0.05) of the depressive rats. The rats receiving high-dose NIR light therapy also exhibited close arrangement of the hippocampal pyramidal cells with significantly reduced neuronal damage and colonic inflammatory cell infiltration, neatly arranged mucosal glands, and lowered pathological score. CONCLUSION: NIR light therapy can significantly improve depression-like behavior and intestinal function in rats possibly by ameliorating oxidative stress via the PGC-1α/Nrf2 signaling pathway and increasing BDNF level in the hippocampus.

Metagenomic analysis revealed the individualized shift in ileal microbiome of neonatal calves in response to delaying the first colostrum feeding.

The aim of this study was to explore the effect of colostrum feeding time on the ileal microbiome of neonatal calves. In this study, 22 male Holstein calves were randomly assigned to different colostrum feeding time treatments: after birth (at 45 min, n = 7); at 6 h after birth (n = 8); and at 12 h after birth (TRT12h; n = 7). At 51 h after birth, calves were killed and ileum digesta was collected for microbiome analysis using shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, and viruses were identified from the ileum microbiome. For the bacteriome, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the predominant phyla, and Escherichia, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus were the 3 most abundant genera. For the archaeal community, Euryarchaeota and Crenarchaeota were the 2 major phyla, and Methanosarcina, Methanobrevibacter, and Methanocorpusculum were the 3 most abundant genera. In total, 116 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were identified from the ileal microbiome, with "biosynthesis of vancomycin group antibiotics," "biosynthesis of ansamycins," "valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis," "ribosome," and "d-alanine metabolism" as the top 5 functions. When the ileal microbiomes were compared among the 3 treatments, the relative abundance of Enterococcus was higher in TRT12h calves, suggesting that calves may have a higher abundance of opportunistic pathogens when the feeding of colostrum is delayed for 12 h. Moreover, among all KEGG pathways, the enriched "taurine and hypotaurine metabolism" (KO00430) pathway was identified in the ileal microbiome of TRT12h calves; however, future studies are needed to understand the effect on the host. Additionally, 2 distinct ileal microbial profiles were identified across all samples, indicating that that host factors may play a significant role in driving varied microbiome changes in response to colostrum feeding time. Whether such microbiome shifts affect long-term gut function and calf performance warrants future studies.

Effect of feeding acidified or fermented barley using Limosilactobacillus reuteri with or without supplemental phytase on diet nutrient digestibility in growing pigs.

Fermentation of cereal grains may degrade myo-inositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis (dihydrogen phosphate) (InsP6) thereby increasing nutrient digestibility. Effects of chemical acidification or fermentation with Limosilactobacillus (L.) reuteri with or without phytase of high ß-glucan hull-less barley grain on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and gross energy (GE), standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AAs), and standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of P were assessed in growing pigs. Pigs were fed four mash barley-based diets balanced for water content: 1) unfermented barley (Control); 2) chemically acidified barley (ACD) with lactic acid and acidic acid (0.019 L/kg barley grain at a ratio of 4:1 [vol/vol]); 3) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 (Fermented without phytase); and 4) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 and phytase (Fermented with phytase; 500 FYT/kg barley grain). The acidification and fermentation treatments occurred for 24 h at 37 °C in a water bath. The four diets were fed to eight ileal-cannulated barrows (initial body weight [BW], 17.4 kg) for four 11-d periods in a double 4 × 4 Latin square. Barley grain InsP6 content of Control, ACD, Fermented without phytase, or Fermented with phytase was 1.12%, 0.59%, 0.52% dry matter (DM), or not detectable, respectively. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, and GE, digestible energy (DE), predicted net energy (NE) value, and urinary excretion of P were greater (P < 0.05) for ACD than Control. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, GE, DE and predicted NE value, urinary excretion of P was greater (P < 0.05), and diet AID of Ca and ATTD and STTD of P tended to be greater (P < 0.10) for Fermented without phytase than Control. Diet ATTD of GE was lower (P < 0.05) and diet ATTD and STTD of P, AID and ATTD of Ca was greater (P < 0.05) for Fermented with phytase than Fermented without phytase. Acidification or fermentation with/without phytase did not affect diet SID of CP and AA. In conclusion, ACD or Fermented without phytase partially degraded InsP6 in barley grain and increased diet ATTD of DM, CP, and GE, but not SID of CP and most AA in growing pigs. Fermentation with phytase entirely degraded InsP6 in barley grain and maximized P and Ca digestibility, thereby reducing the need to provide inorganic dietary P to meet P requirements of growing pigs.

[Efficacy and safety of Kangbingdu granules in the treatment of influenza: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, positive-drug parallel control multicenter clinical trial].

Objective: To observe the efficacy and safety of Kangbingdu granules (KBD) in the treatment of influenza. Methods: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, and positive-drug parallel control trial was conducted in 27 Grade ⅢA hospitals in China and the subjects were randomly assigned to the KBD test group or the oseltamivir phosphate capsule control group at a ratio of 1∶1. 200 subjects were planned to be enrolled in each group. The experimental group was given KBD (18g each time, 3 times a day) and oseltamivir phosphate simulator orally, while the control group was given oseltamivir phosphate capsule (75 mg each time, twice a day) and KBD simulator orally for 5 days. The primary efficacy indicators included the remission time of major clinical symptoms and the time of complete defervescence. The secondary efficacy indicators included dosage of acetaminophen, the change of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome score and the remission time of other important clinical symptoms. The efficacy of KBD in the test group and Oseltamivir phosphate control group were compared. Adverse events or adverse reactions were observed at the same time to evaluate the safety of KBD Granules. Results: A total of 393 subjects from 27 Grade ⅢA hospitals in China were enrolled. The experimental group included 195 subjects and 191 subjects (97.95%) completed the trial, While the control group included 198 subjects and 195 subjects (98.48%) completed the trial. There was no significant difference in the shedding rate and rejection rate between the two groups (P>0.05). In the Full Analysis Set (FAS), the mean age of the experimental group was (34.9±14.4) years old, with 83 males (42.78%). The mean age of the control group was (33.3±13.5) years old, with 78 males (39.59%). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in demographic data, physical examination, viral pathogen detection, total score of TCM syndromes and scores of each symptom at baseline (P>0.05). In the FAS, the remission time M (Q1, Q3) of major clinical symptoms was 3.0 (3.0, 4.0) days in the experimental group and 3.0 (3.0, 4.0) days in the control group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The time M (Q1, Q3) of complete defervescence was 34.0 (20.3, 49.0) hours in the experimental group and 36.5 (19.6, 48.8) hours in the control group, and the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). KBD granules had the same effect as Oseltamivir phosphate capsule (P>0.05) in terms of acetaminophen dosage, TCM syndrome effect and disappearance rate of most important clinical symptoms. Meanwhile, the disappearance rate of dizziness and chest distress on day 3 in the KBD granules group was better than that of oseltamivir phosphate capsule (P<0.05). Conclusion: KBD granules have the same efficacy as Oseltamivir Phosphate capsule in the treatment of influenza and the drug safety is good.

Effect of dietary l-arginine of broiler breeder hens on embryonic development, apparent metabolism, and immunity of offspring.

This study investigated the effects of supplemented l-arginine (l-Arg) in broiler breeder hens' diets on the embryonic development and physiological changes of offspring during the hatching period. A total of 480 35-wk-old healthy female Arbor Acres broiler breeders were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with 6 digestible Arg levels (0.96%, 1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%). After a 10-wk experiment, eggs were collected for incubation. At embryonic day (E) 11 to E21, eggs, embryos, and organs (liver, breast muscle, and thigh muscle) were weighed. Total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride in plasma, were measured. Plasma level of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were measured at E13, E17, and E21. Messenger RNA expression of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPS1), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) in liver and breast muscle tissues was assessed at E13, E17, and E21. The results showed that 1.16% Arg in maternal diet increased egg weight (P < 0.05). The level of Arg in maternal diet has a significant effect on organ index and embryo weight of multiple embryonic days (P < 0.05). Embryonic plasma total protein concentration was significantly affected by maternal dietary Arg level (P < 0.05) and exhibited quadratic responses at E11, E15, E17, and E21 (P < 0.01). Plasma urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were also significantly affected by the level of maternal Arg at different embryonic ages (P < 0.05). Dietary digestible Arg levels quadratically influenced plasma urea nitrogen level at E21 (P < 0.05) and cholesterol concentration at E17 and E19 (P < 0.01). L-Arg supplementation in maternal diet significantly improved the IgG level at E17 and E21 (1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, and 1.74%; P < 0.05), the IgM level at E13 (1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%) and E17 (P < 0.05) and the NOS level at E13, E17, and E21 (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary L-Arg supplementation significantly improved the expression of CPS1 gene, OTC gene (1.16%, 1.35%, and 1.55%), and ASS gene (1.35% and 1.55%) in the liver (P < 0.05), and also enhanced the CPS1 gene (except 1.35%) and OTC gene (1.55% and 1.74%) expression in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal Arg level affected the embryonic development of offspring and regulated the apparent metabolic programming and immunity state of the embryo. Arginine level of 1.55% in hens' diet was beneficial to the protein synthesis and immunity of the offspring in the embryonic period, and it was recommended to obtain healthy offspring.

Effect of feeding linseed diet on testis development, antioxidant capacity, and epididymal cauda sperm concentration in Chinese Hu lamb.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential for mammalian testis development and sperm function. However, PUFAs that are contained in linseed oil are easily oxidized in the diet and biohydrogenated in the rumen. In this study, we investigated the effect of linseed as a source of PUFAs on the antioxidant capacity and testis development in Hu lamb. Seventy-five 3-month-old lambs were randomly assigned to three groups. Within each treatment group, 25 lambs were allocated to five pens (five lambs per pen). The lambs in the control group were fed a control diet without linseed for 42 days from D22 to D63. Group I (BS28) was fed a control diet from D22 to D35 and 8% linseed diet from D36 to D63. Group II (BS42) was fed an 8% linseed diet for 42 days from D22 to D63. After 63-day feeding trial, all lambs except the heaviest and lightest in each pen were humanely slaughtered and investigated. Results revealed that feeding linseed did not affect the body weight, scrotal circumference, and testis weight, whereas feeding linseed for 42 days increased the epididymis weight (37.85 ± 1.61 g vs. 32.09 ± 1.06 g, P < 0.05) compared with the control group. Feeding lambs with linseed for 42 days also significantly upregulated the expression of antioxidative (glutathione peroxidase 4 and copper-zinc superoxide dismutase), steroidogenesis (3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and steroid acute regulatory protein), and PUFA metabolism-related genes (fatty acid desaturase 2 and elongation of very long-chain fatty acid protein 2) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen mRNA (P < 0.05). It also increased the relative expression of mitochondrial DNA (P < 0.05), total antioxidant capacity (0.230 ± 0.019 mmol/mgprot vs. 0.175 ± 0.011 mmol/mgprot, P < 0.05), and superoxide dismutase (1661.467 ± 147.117 U/mgprot vs. 1158.891 ± 98.850 U/mgprot, P < 0.05) in testicular tissue but decreased the cholesterol concentration (0.331 ± 0.073 mmol/mgprot vs. 0.671 ± 0.092 mmol/mgprot, P < 0.05) compared with the control group. Therefore, feeding lambs with linseed for 42 days stimulated seminiferous tubule development and increased the number of Sertoli cells (20.71 ± 0.89 vs. 17.6 ± 0.73, P < 0.05), epididymal cauda lumina diameter (638.26 ± 22.32 µm vs. 444.41 ± 34.80 µm, P < 0.05), and the number of sperm in the epididymal cauda (68.91 ± 7.06 × 108/g vs. 36.61 ± 7.50 × 108/g). All these results suggested that feeding linseed in the early reproductive development stage of lambs upregulated the expression of antioxidative, steroidogenesis, and PUFA metabolism-related genes; increased the antioxidant capacity in lamb's testis; and contributed to testis development and spermatogenesis.

Arsenic trioxide-eluting Callispheres beads is more effective and equally tolerant compared with arsenic trioxide/lipiodol emulsion in the transcatheter arterial chemoembolization treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) using CalliSpheres beads loading with arsenic trioxide (ATO) (CBATO) in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eighty-six unresectable HCC patients about to receive TACE with CBATO or conventional TACE (cTACE) with ATO were consecutively enrolled and divided into CBATO group (N=38) or cTACE group (N=48), respectively. Treatment response at 3 months (M3) and 6 months (M6) after the first treatment, and the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Also, the biochemical indexes were documented before treatment, at 7 days, M3, and M6 after the first treatment. RESULTS: The 3-month complete response (CR), overall response rate (ORR), and the 6-month CR, ORR, as well as the disease control rate (DCR) were increased in CBATO group compared with the cTACE group. Also, the TACE with CBATO was an independent predicting factor for lower stable disease+ progressive disease (non-ORR). Besides, PFS and OS were longer in CBATO group compared with cTACE group. Referring to biochemical indexes (including liver function indexes, kidney function indexes, and blood routine indexes), no difference between the two groups was found. As for adverse events, the prevalence of nausea and vomiting was decreased, while the prevalence of other adverse events were similar in CBATO group compared to cTACE group. CONCLUSIONS: TACE with CBATO is more effective and equally tolerant compared with cTACE in treating unresectable HCC patients.

Association between Depressive Symptoms and Supplemental intake of Calcium and Vitamin D in Older Adults.

OBJECTIVES: We explored the associations between depressive symptoms and supplemental calcium and vitamin D intake in older adults. DESIGN: This was a prospective cohort study. PARTICIPANTS: 8,527 older adults aged ≥60 years from Zhejiang Major Public Health Surveillance Program (ZPHS) without depressive symptoms at baseline survey. MEASUREMENTS: Participants were divided into non-supplementation, calcium (Ca), vitamin D, and calcium plus vitamin D (CaD) groups based on their supplemental intake during the past year. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association between depressive symptoms and supplemental intake. RESULTS: When compared to the non-supplementation group, the Ca group exhibited a significant odds ratio (OR) of 0.731 (95% CI: 0.552-0.967, P=0.028). After adjusting for age, sex, and Ca food sources, the OR was even smaller for the CaD group (OR: 0.326; 95% CI: 0.119-0.889, P=0.029). Additionally, our results indicated that taking Ca supplements ≥4 days/week yielded a significant OR of 0.690 (95% CI: 0.492-0.968) after full adjustment. Taking CaD supplements ≥4 days/week yielded a significant OR of 0.282 (95% CI: 0.089-0.898) after adjusting for age, sex, and Ca food sources. CONCLUSIONS: Supplemental intake of Ca or CaD ≥4 days/week can decrease the risk of depressive symptoms in older adults, although CaD supplements may be more effective.

Dietary supplementation with arginine and glutamic acid alters the expression of amino acid transporters in skeletal muscle of growing pigs.

Sixty Duroc × Large White × Landrace pigs with an average initial body weight (BW) of 77.1 ± 1.3 kg were selected to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with arginine (Arg) and/or glutamic acid (Glu) on free amino acid (FAA) profiles, expression of AA transporters, and growth-related genes in skeletal muscle. The animals were randomly assigned to one of five treatment groups (basic diet, iso-nitrogenous, Arg, Glu, and Arg + Glu groups). The results showed that plasma Glu concentration was lowest in the Arg + Glu group and highest in the Glu group (P < 0.05). In the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle, the concentrations of histidine, Arg, and taurine in the Arg + Glu group were higher, and the concentrations of 3-methylhistidine was lower, than in the basic diet group (P < 0.05). The mRNA levels of ASC amino acid transporter-2 (ASCT2), L-type AA transporter 1, and sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 in the LD muscle, as well as the mRNA levels of ASCT2 and proton-assisted amino acid transporter in the biceps femoris (BF) muscle, were higher in the Arg + Glu group compared to the basic diet group (P < 0.05). The mRNA levels of the muscle-specific RING finger-1 and muscle atrophy F-box genes in the LD muscle were downregulated in the Glu and Arg + Glu groups compared to the basic diet group (P < 0.05). Collectively, these findings suggest that dietary supplementation with both Arg and Glu increases intramuscular FAA concentrations and decreases the mRNA levels of genes involved in protein degradation in skeletal muscle.

[Initiation, development, and achievements of burn rehabilitation therapy in China].

Burn rehabilitation in China started from compression therapy in the mid-1970s, which showed the dual effects of prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars. It not only promoted functional rehabilitation but also strengthened the confidence of patients in rehabilitation treatment. Thereafter, more therapies were brought into practice, such as intra-scar injection of triamcinolone acetonide, application of plastic splints, hydrotherapy, exercises with equipment, skin care, local therapeutic massage, active and passive exercises, as well as external use of drugs for inhibiting scars and pigments. Since the beginning of the 21st century, rehabilitation therapies have been gradually increasing. Psychological rehabilitation, occupational therapy, external use of silicone gel, wax therapy and sound, light, electricity, and radiation therapy have been carried out. Many hospitals have established foundations and held summer camps for children. As far as the whole country is concerned, compared with the huge demand, we still face a number of problems such as shortage of working staff, limited working space, capital chain rupture, lack of multi-disciplinary cooperation, untimely treatment, and incomplete rehabilitation. Nowadays, with increasing knowledge of burn rehabilitation and number of practitioners, improvement of equipment and economic situation, the pace of rehabilitation has accelerated, and the overall implementation of burn rehabilitation therapy has shown great vitality. Patients with burn injury involving over 80% total burn surface area (TBSA) of total burn area or full-thickness burn over 60% TBSA were cured and recovered in different levels of hospitals nationwide, which not only reflects the superb level of burn treatment in China but also reflects the overall improvement of rehabilitation level of the country.

A novel FGFR1-binding peptide attenuates the degeneration of articular cartilage in adult mice.

OBJECTIVE: We previously reported that genetic ablation of (Fibroblast Growth Factors Receptors) FGFR1 in knee cartilage attenuates the degeneration of articular cartilage in adult mice, which suggests that FGFR1 is a potential targeting molecule for osteoarthritis (OA). Here, we identified R1-P1, an inhibitory peptide for FGFR1 and investigated its effect on the pathogenesis of OA in mice induced by destabilization of medial meniscus (DMM). DESIGN: Binding ability between R1-P1 and FGFR1 protein was evaluated by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) and molecular docking. Alterations in cartilage were evaluated histologically. The expression levels of molecules associated with articular cartilage homeostasis and FGFR1 signaling were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The chondrocyte apoptosis was detected by terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase mediated nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. RESULTS: R1-P1 had highly binding affinities to human FGFR1 protein, and efficiently inhibited extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 pathway in mouse primary chondrocytes. In addition, R1-P1 attenuated the IL-1ß induced significant loss of proteoglycan in full-thickness cartilage tissue from human femur head. Moreover, this peptide can significantly restore the IL-1ß mediated loss of proteoglycan and type II collagen (Col II) and attenuate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13) in mouse primary chondrocytes. Finally, intra-articular injection of R1-P1 remarkably attenuated the loss of proteoglycan and the destruction of articular cartilage and decreased the expressions of extracellular matrix (ECM) degrading enzymes and apoptosis in articular chondrocytes of mice underwent DMM surgery. CONCLUSIONS: R1-P1, a novel inhibitory peptide for FGFR1, attenuates the degeneration of articular cartilage in adult mice, which is a potential leading molecule for the treatment of OA.

Low-protein diet improves meat quality of growing and finishing pigs through changing lipid metabolism, fiber characteristics, and free amino acid profile of the muscle.

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of feeding reduced CP, AA-supplemented diets on meat quality in growing and finishing pigs as well as the related mechanism. In experiment 1, 18 growing pigs (36.5 kg BW) were assigned randomly and fed 1 of 3 corn-soybean meal diets containing either 18% CP (normal protein, NP), 15% CP (low protein, LP), or 12% CP (very low protein, VLP). In experiment 2, 18 finishing pigs (62.3 kg BW) were allotted randomly into 1 of the following diets: 16% CP (NP), 13% CP (LP), or 10% CP (VLP). In both experiments, the LP and VLP diets were supplemented with crystalline AA to achieve equal content of standardized ileal digestible lysine, methionine, threonine, and tryptophan. At the end of each experiment, all pigs were slaughtered to collect longissimus dorsi muscle (LM) samples. Samples were used for determining meat quality, intramuscular fat (IMF) content, fatty acid composition, free AA profile, and expression of genes for myosin heavy chain isoforms. Results showed that growing and finishing pigs fed the LP diets increased (P < 0.05) redness value of LM, while finishing pigs fed the LP and VLP diets decreased (P < 0.05) the shear force values. Compared with the NP diet, growing and finishing pigs fed lower CP diets had higher (P < 0.05) contents of IMF and MUFA, and lower (P < 0.05) contents of PUFA. Besides, higher (P < 0.05) expression levels of type I and/or IIa muscle fibers were observed in LP diet-fed growing and finishing pigs, and greater concentrations of taurine and tasty AA in VLP diet-fed growing and finishing pigs. Taken together, our results indicate that low-protein diets could positively affect meat quality of growing and finishing pigs, and likely through regulation of IMF content and fatty acid composition, fiber characteristics, and free AA profile in the muscle.

[Analysis on maternal anemia rate and related factors in Taicang of Jiangsu Province in 2014-2016].

Objective: To investigate anemia rate and to analyze related factors in maternal women in Taicang of Jiangsu province. Methods: There were 13 278 pregnant women who had prenatal care and gave birth in 25 hospitals during 2014-2016 in Taicang of Jiangsu Province. We excluded 1 179 women who registered after 12 weeks of gestation, 144 women who did not test hemoglobin during gestation, and 25 women whose gestational weeks were incorrect. Finally, data from 11 930 pregnant women were analyzed. From the electronical medical record system of maternal and child health care, we obtained basic information of these pregnant women, their hemoglobin levels and related data during gestation and postpartum. Anemia rate was descripted, and factors associated with anemia were identified using multiple unconditional logistic regression. Results: Age of the 11 930 pregnant women was (27.0±4.5) years old, and the P(50) (P(25)-P(75)) of BMI at the first trimester was 21.4 (19.6-23.7) kg/m(2). The anemia rate during gestation was 37.2% (4 434/11 930). The anemia rate was 5.5% (276/5 035), 24.4% (1 802/7 377), and 47.8% (3 328/6 966) at the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. Anemia rate at 42 days postpartum was 19.9% (680/3 418). Multiple unconditional logistic regression indicated that anemia during gestation was related with maternal age <21 years old at prenatal registration (OR (95%CI): 1.28 (1.07-1.53)), body mass index(BMI) <18.5 kg/m(2) at the first trimester (OR (95%CI): 1.14 (1.00-1.29)), non-local residence (OR (95%CI): 1.35 (1.20-1.52)), education of middle school and lower (OR (95%CI): middle school: 1.24 (1.05-1.47), primary school: 1.36 (1.01-1.82)), occupation of housewife or farmer (OR (95%CI): housewife: 1.21 (1.06-1.38), farmer: 1.21 (1.03-1.44)). Anemia at 42 days postpartum was associated with multipara (OR(95%CI): 1.59 (1.12-2.27)), anemia at the first trimester (OR(95%CI): 3.26 (1.92-5.55)), no folic acid supplementation at the first trimester (OR(95%CI): 1.34 (1.00-1.80)), and hemorrhage≥500 ml during 24 h postpartum (OR(95%CI): 2.26 (1.02-4.97)). Conclusion: Anemia rate was low for maternal women in Taicang of Jiangsu Province. The factors associated with gestational anemia included pregnant women's age, BMI, local or non-local residence, occupation, and education. The factors associated with postpartum anemia included multipara, anemia at the first trimester, no folic acid supplementation at the first trimester, and hemorrhage 24 h postpartum.

[Tea consumption and the risk of lung cancer in Chinese males: a prospective cohort study].

Objective: To investigate the association between tea consumption and lung cancer risk in Chinese males. Methods: Tea consumption and incident lung cancer cases were collected on a biennial basis among males in Kailuan Cohort during 2006-2015. Up to 31st December 2015, a total of 103 010 male candidates from the Chinese Kailuan Male Cohort Study were enrolled in the present study. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the association between tea consumption and risk of lung cancer in males. Results: The age of male candidates was (51.3±13.4)years old. There were 828 810.74 person-years of follow-up and 8.91 years of median follow-up period. During the follow-up, 964 lung cancer cases were identified. In male, the rate of never cosumers, tea drinkers (<4/week) and tea drinkers (≥4/week) were 58.17%(n=59 926), 24.04%(n=24 765) and 17.78%(n=18 319), respectively. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, HR (95%CI) of lung cancer for subjects with tea drinkers (<4/week) and tea drinkers (≥4/week) were 0.80 (0.63-1.02) and 1.02 (0.80-1.30), respectively, as compared with never cosumers. The results showed no significant association with lung cancer. Stratification analysis and sensitivity analysis showed no significant changes. Conclusion: Our study has not found that tea consumption is significantly associated with the risk of male lung cancer.

Acanthopanax senticosus reduces brain injury in mice exposed to low linear energy transfer radiation.

BACKGROUND: Compared with pharmaceuticals, natural medicines are gaining acceptance as countermeasures against radiation injury because of their distinct characteristics, specifically low toxicity and multi-target effects. METHODS: The ability of a traditional Chinese medicine, Acanthopanax senticosus (AS), to reduce radiation injury following exposure of the heads of mice to 4?Gy low-linear energy transfer (LET) radiation was assessed histologically, behaviorally and metabolically''. RESULTS: Irradiated mice administered AS extract showed improved learning ability and central nervous system (CNS) function. AS extract effectively controlled nerve cell swelling, protein loss, and necrotic tissue liquefaction that was observed in the irradiated mouse brain. Metabolomics data demonstrated that treatment with AS extract resulted in significant quantitative changes of 16 classes of cerebral metabolites in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of irradiated mice. Using a principal component analysis (PCA), three principal components, F1, F2 and F3, were identified as related to brain energy metabolism, brain tissue development, and brain glutamate cycle, respectively. In addition, the F2 and F3 scores of the AS-treated group of mice were higher compared to mice that were treated with Venlafaxine. Furthermore, the efficiency of balancing the glutamate cycle that the AS-treated group achieved was two times greater than that of the mice treated with Venlafaxine. CONCLUSIONS: AS is a promising approach to reduce radiation-induced brain injury. Further studies are warranted to examine the potential of AS to reduce the side effects caused by chemotherapeutics.

[Therapeutic effects of rutaecarpine on dextran sodium sulfate-induced experimental colitis in mice].

Objective: To determine the therapic effects of rutaecarpine in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)induced experimental colitis and explore whether the protective role of rutaecarpine is related to the synthesis and release of CGRP. Methods: Fifty female BABL/c strain mice were randomly divided into untreated model control group and DSS-exposed groups.DSS-exposed groups were given administration of 5% DSS for 7 days and respectively treated with vehicle, rutacarpine(30 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg) , prednisone by intragastric administration from day 8 to day 14.The disease activity index (DAI) scores, the histological scores, the mRNA and protein concentrations of CGRP in colonic tissues were measured. Results: On day 7, the DAI scores of the DSS-exposed groups[vehicle group (8.9±0.9), low-dose Rut group(8.9±0.6), high-dose Rut group(8.2±0.8), prednisone group(8.7±1.6)] were much higher, compared with the untreated model control group(0±0)(P<0.01). The DAI scores on day 14 of the vehicle, rutaecarpine or prednisone treated groups were respectively markedly lower than on day 7(3.2±0.6, 0.9±0.6, 3.1±0.7 vs 8.9±0.6, 8.2±0.8, 8.7±1.6, P<0.05). The DAI score of mice treated with high-dose rutaecarpine was significantly lower, compared with those treated with low-dose rutaecarpine and prednisone.Compared to the untreated model control group, the histological scores in other four groups significantly increased.Comparisons of values among the post-treatment groups had statistical significance (0.2±0.4 vs 6.9±0.9, 4.5±0.9, 2.8±0.8, 5.7±0.7, P<0.01), while the high-dose rutaecarpine group presented the lowest score.The colonic mucosal CGRP mRNA and CGRP protein expressions in groups receiving vehicle, low-dose rutaecarpine and prednisone were significantly reduced than those in the untreated model control group(0.32±0.03 vs 0.15±0.02, 0.18±0.01, 0.22±0.01, P<0.01). The CGRP mRNA and CGRP protein expressions in the untreated model control group was similar to those in the DSS+ high-dose rutaecarpine group with no statistic significance between them(0.32±0.03 vs 0.31±0.02, P>0.05). Pearson correlation analysis between CGRP mRNA levels, CGRP immunohistochemisty levels and DAI, histological scores showed a statistically negative relationship respectively(r=-0.797, -0.819, -0.863, -0.845, all P<0.01). Conclusions: Rutaecarpine can ameliorate the DAI scores and histological scores of ulcerative colitis in mice.Rutaecarpine can upregulate the expressions of CGRP mRNA and CGRP protein.Correlation between CGRP mRNA, CGRP protein levels and DAI scores, histological scores respectively showed a statistically negative relationship.

Study on the effects of parecoxib on hypothalamus orexin neuron of cerebral infarction rats.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of parecoxib on cerebral infarction in rats and the regulatory mechanism on hypothalamus orexin neurons (orexin) and protein expression. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 60 SD male rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, model group and treatment group (20 rats in each group). Cerebral infarction model was established by modified Longa method. Rats in the treatment group were given parecoxib (2.5 mg kg-1) in tail by intravenous injection, while both the sham operation group and the model group were given the equal volume of sterile PBS solution in the tail vein. Continuous intervention of 72h was carried out in the three groups. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot were used to detect the expression of orexin neurons and orexin protein in the hypothalamus of rats, respectively. RESULTS: Immunofluorescence staining showed that the number of orexin positive cells in the model group was significantly less than that in the sham-operated group (p < 0.01). After treatment intervention, the number of orexin positive cells in the hypothalamus was significantly increased compared to that in model group (p < 0.01). Western blot analysis showed that compared with sham operation group, the expression of orexin in the hypothalamus of model group was significantly decreased (p < 0.01), whereas the expression of orexin protein was significantly elevated after parecoxib intervention (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Parecoxib plays a therapeutic effect on cerebral infarction by up-regulating the orexin neuron.

Dietary butylated hydroxytoluene improves lipid metabolism, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic response of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides).

A 10-week growth trail was conducted to investigate the efficacy and tolerance of dietary butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) by evaluating inflammation, apoptosis and hepatic disease related to oxidative stress in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Four experimental diets were prepared with BHT supplement levels of 0 (B0), 150 (B150), 300 (B300) and 1500 (B1500) mg/kg, in which B150 was at the maximum recommended level established by European Union Regulation, and the B300 and B1500 levels were 2 and 10-fold of B150, respectively. Each diet was fed to 6 replicates with 30 largemouth bass (initial body weight, IBW = 6.20 ± 0.01 g) in each tank. The BHT inclusion level did not affect the specific growth rate, but fish in the B150 group showed the lowest feed conversion rate (P < 0.05). BHT inclusion significantly decreased the levels of plasma TC, TG, LDL, ALT and AKP, and increased the (HDL-C)/TC ratio (P < 0.05). Plasma MDA was significantly decreased in the B150 group and GSH-Px was extremely enhanced in each BHT inclusion group (P < 0.05). Hepatic T-AOC was significantly enhanced and O2- was significantly decreased in each BHT inclusion group compared to the B0 group (P < 0.05), as well as hepatic MDA was significantly decreased in B1500 group (P < 0.05). Dietary BHT inclusion down-regulated the hepatic mRNA levels of inflammation, apoptosis and fibrosis related genes, including TNFα, TGF-ß1, α-SMA, IL8, IL11ß and caspase-9. Moreover, BHT could improve hepatic lipid metabolism via up-regulating the mRNA levels of APOA1, CYP7A1, CYP8B1, and down-regulating the mRNA levels of PPAR-γ and APOB. Histological examination of the liver morphology with H&E and Sirius Red staining showed that BHT inclusion decreased necrotic degenerative changes and collagen deposition in largemouth bass. An immunofluorescence examination revealed significantly decreased cleaved caspase-3 signals in the BHT groups. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that ROS induces hepatic cell apoptosis and fibrosis via the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis by activating caspase-9 in the mitochondria and then initiates apoptosis by activating caspase-3. Consuming 2.32-23.80 mg/kg·bw/d (150-1500 mg/kg in diet) of BHT effectively improved the plasma and hepatic lipid metabolism, antioxidant response as well as reduced ROS production, protecting hepatic cells from injury. It is implied that even a 10-fold increase of the maximum level of BHT (150 mg/kg) is safe for the largemouth bass.

Branched-chain amino acid ratios in low-protein diets regulate the free amino acid profile and the expression of hepatic fatty acid metabolism-related genes in growing pigs.

Liver metabolism is affected by nutrients. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of low-protein diets (17% crude protein, CP) supplemented with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine (Leu), isoleucine (Ile) and valine (Val), on hepatic amino acid profile and lipid metabolism in growing pigs. The ratio of Leu : Ile : Val in all groups was 1 : 0.51 : 0.63 (20% crude protein, CP), 1 : 1 : 1 (17% CP), 1 : 0.75 : 0.75 (17% CP), 1 : 0.51 : 0.63 (17% CP) and 1 : 0.25 : 0.25 (17% CP) respectively. Results revealed that compared to the positive control group (1 : 0.51 : 0.63, 20% CP), the low-protein diets significantly augmented the concentrations of most essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids (p < .05), with the greatest values observed in the 1 : 0.25 : 0.25 group. Moreover, relative to the control, the low-protein diets with the Leu : Ile : Val ratio ranging from 1 : 0.75 : 0.75 to 1 : 0.25 : 0.25 markedly downregulated the mRNA abundance of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP-4) (p < .05), and upregulated the mRNA expression of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-g coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) and liver carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (L-CPT-1) (p < .05). Therefore, our data suggest that protein-restricted diets supplemented with optimal BCAA ratio, that is, 1 : 0.75 : 0.75-1 : 0.25 : 0.25, induce a shift from fatty acid synthesis to fatty acid oxidation in the liver of growing pigs. These effects may be associated with increased mitochondrial biogenesis.

Dietary supplementation with arginine and glutamic acid modifies growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs.

Sixty Duroc × Large White × Landrace pigs with an average initial BW of 77.1 ± 1.3 kg were used to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with arginine and glutamic acid on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs. The animals were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 treatment groups (12 pigs/group, male:female ratio 1:1). The pigs in the control group were fed a basal diet (basal diet group), and those in the experimental groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 2.05% -alanine (isonitrogenous group), 1.0% -arginine (Arg group), 1% glutamic acid + 1.44% -alanine (Glu group), or 1.0% -arginine + 1.0% glutamic acid (Arg+Glu group). After a 60-d period of supplementation, growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality were evaluated. The results showed no significant differences ( > 0.05) in growth performance and carcass traits of the pigs in the Arg group relative to the basal diet group; however, the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle and back fat showed a decrease ( < 0.05) in the percentage of SFA. In the Glu group, the final BW, phase 1 (d 1 to 30) and phase 2 (d 31 to 60) ADFI, and average back fat thickness of the pigs decreased ( < 0.05) by 7.14%, 23.43%, 8.03%, and 33.88%, respectively, when compared with the basal diet group. Dietary Arg+Glu supplementation had no effect ( > 0.05) on the final BW, phase 2 ADFI, and average daily weight gain in pigs but decreased ( < 0.05) their phase 1 ADFI, average back fat thickness, and percentage of SFA in the LD muscle and back fat, and increased ( < 0.05) the i.m. fat (IMF) content of the LD and biceps femoris muscles when compared with the basal diet group. Furthermore, a 16% decrease in yellowness (b* value; < 0.05) was observed in the Arg+Glu group pigs when compared with the isonitrogenous group. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with both Arg and Glu beneficially increases the IMF deposition and improves the meat color and fatty acid composition without affecting growth performance and s.c. fat in pigs, providing a novel strategy to enhance meat quality in growing-finishing pigs.