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1.
Interdiscip Sci ; 2024 Aug 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39167285

ABSTRACT

The kidney is an abdominal organ in the human body that supports filtering excess water and waste from the blood. Kidney diseases generally occur due to changes in certain supplements, medical conditions, obesity, and diet, which causes kidney function and ultimately leads to complications such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and other renal disorders. Combining patient metadata with computed tomography (CT) images is essential to accurately and timely diagnosing such complications. Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) have transformed medical fields by providing high accuracy in complex tasks. However, the high computational cost of these models is a significant challenge, particularly in real-time applications. This paper proposed SpinalZFNet, a hybrid deep learning approach that integrates the architectural strengths of Spinal Network (SpinalNet) with the feature extraction capabilities of Zeiler and Fergus Network (ZFNet) to classify kidney disease accurately using CT images. This unique combination enhanced feature analysis, significantly improving classification accuracy while reducing the computational overhead. At first, the acquired CT images are pre-processed using a median filter, and the pre-processed image is segmented using Efficient Neural Network (ENet). Later, the images are augmented, and different features are extracted from the augmented CT images. The extracted features finally classify the kidney disease into normal, tumor, cyst, and stone using the proposed SpinalZFNet model. The SpinalZFNet outperformed other models, with 99.9% sensitivity, 99.5% specificity, precision 99.6%, 99.8% accuracy, and 99.7% F1-Score in classifying kidney disease.

2.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 299: 336-341, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38960859

ABSTRACT

This EBCOG guidance reviews the current and future status of genomics within fetal and maternal medicine. This document addresses the clinical uses of genetic testing in both screening and diagnostic testing prenatally. The role of genomics within fetal and maternal medicine is described. The research and future implications of genetic testing as well as the educational, ethical and economic implications of genomics are discussed.


Subject(s)
Genetic Testing , Genomics , Prenatal Diagnosis , Humans , Female , Pregnancy , Prenatal Diagnosis/methods , Prenatal Diagnosis/trends , Obstetrics , Gynecology , Europe
3.
J Agric Food Chem ; 72(28): 15662-15671, 2024 Jul 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38976570

ABSTRACT

This study determined the effects of two methionine (Met) sources at three total sulfur amino acids (TSAA) to lysine ratios (TSAA/Lys) on gut pH, digestive enzyme activity, amino acid transporter expression, and Met metabolism of broilers. The birds were randomly assigned to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with Met sources (dl-Met and dl-2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)-butanoic acid (OH-Met)) and TSAA/Lys (0.58, 0.73, and 0.88) from 1 to 21 days. The results demonstrated that dl-Met and OH-Met supported the same growth performance, but high TSAA/Lys ratio reduced the feed intake and body weight (P < 0.05). OH-Met reduced the crop chyme pH and enhanced the jejunal lipase activity (P < 0.05). ATB0,+ expression decreased with increased dl-Met levels in the duodenum; the low TSAA/Lys ratio induced a stronger mRNA expression of basolateral Met transporters. OH-Met resulted in an increase of cystathionine ß-synthase expression in the liver and a decrease in serum homocysteine levels at middle TSAA/Lys ratio compared with dl-Met treatment (P < 0.05). In conclusion, two Met sources support the same growth, but OH-Met acidified the crop chyme. The investigated transporter transcripts differed significantly along the small intestine. At the middle TSAA/Lys ratio, OH-Met showed a higher metabolic tendency of the trans-sulfuration pathway compared with dl-Met.


Subject(s)
Amino Acid Transport Systems , Animal Feed , Chickens , Methionine , Animals , Methionine/metabolism , Chickens/genetics , Chickens/metabolism , Animal Feed/analysis , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Amino Acid Transport Systems/genetics , Amino Acid Transport Systems/metabolism , Male , Liver/metabolism
4.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 301: 19-23, 2024 Jul 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39084182

ABSTRACT

The European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG) and the European Network of Trainees in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ENTOG) express their concerns on the effect of climate change and environmental pollution. This paper reviews the impact on reproductive health and the contribution to climate change by the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. It concludes that its contributors and the effects of climate change cause definite adverse consequences to fertility and adverse obstetric outcomes. Mankind, and obstetrics and gynaecology personnel as well, must be aware and responsible of its contribution to climate change and consider the impact of their actions and interventions.

5.
Poult Sci ; 103(9): 104020, 2024 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39084144

ABSTRACT

The present study investigated the effects of low protein diets with different starch sources and starch to protein ratio on growth, digestibility, intestinal health, caecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), serum cholesterol and triglycerides in broiler chickens. Eight hundred one-day-old male broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allotted to one of 4 dietary treatments with 10 repeats and 20 birds in each repeat. The dietary treatments included 1) a standard protein corn-SBM based diet (SP), 2) a low protein corn-SBM based diet (LPI) without reduced starch: protein ratio, 3) a low protein corn-SBM based diet (LPII) with reduced starch: protein ratio, and 4) a low protein corn-SBM-peas based diet (LPP) and reduced starch: protein ratio. Soy hulls were added in the LPII and LPP diets to reduce starch: protein ratio. During the experiment period from 11 to 24 d, FI was not affected by the dietary treatments (P > 0.05). The BWG was significantly reduced in the LPI diet compared to the SP diet (P < 0.05). Likewise, FCR deteriorated in LPI and LPII but was better in the SP diet followed by the LPP diet (P < 0.05). The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM) varied significantly among the dietary treatments (P < 0.01). While ATTD of starch was similar for all the diets except the LPP diet wherein the ATTD of starch was significantly lower (P < 0.001). Ether extract digestibility was also significantly different between the SP and LPII dietary treatments (P < 0.01). The AME and AMEn values were significantly lower in the LPP diet compared with other dietary treatments (P < 0.001). Nitrogen retention (%) was increased in all the LP diets compared with the SP diet (P < 0.001), but it was significantly better in both LPII and LPP diets compared to the LPI diet. The data showed that cecal SCFAs production was increased in the LPII and LPP compared to the SP and LPI diets (P < 0.001). Further, the production of acetic, butyric, and propionic acids was substantially higher in the LPP diet (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in gene expression of Claudin-1 and ZO-1 (P > 0.05). However, MUC-2 and GLUT-1 gene expression were significantly downregulated in the LPI diet (P < 0.05). The concentration of cholesterol and triglycerides was significantly increased in the LPI diet (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the addition of peas as a slowly digestible starch source combined with soy hulls in low protein diet helped to partly recover the growth performance and improved cecal SCFAs production compared to other low protein diets with and without reduced starch: protein ratio in broiler chickens.


Subject(s)
Animal Feed , Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena , Chickens , Diet, Protein-Restricted , Diet , Digestion , Starch , Animals , Chickens/physiology , Chickens/growth & development , Chickens/metabolism , Animal Feed/analysis , Male , Starch/metabolism , Starch/administration & dosage , Digestion/drug effects , Diet/veterinary , Diet, Protein-Restricted/veterinary , Random Allocation , Dietary Proteins/metabolism , Dietary Proteins/administration & dosage , Fatty Acids, Volatile/metabolism , Cecum/metabolism
6.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 299: 350-358, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38851960

ABSTRACT

A questionnaire-based study was jointly organised by European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and European Society of Contraception to evaluate the current status as regards access and quality of care regarding contraception, abortion care, and pre-conceptional counselling and care among the 26 European countries. There are considerable variations among these countries as regards the provision of contraceptive services and abortion care. There is ample room for improvement through European training and education programs. However, the most important difference is the absence of a comprehensive network of healthcare providers in various countries to deliver these services at different points of access. There is notable absence of educational programs and instructional materials tailored specifically for nurses and midwives in several countries. This deficiency impedes the professional development and skills enhancement of these healthcare professionals, potentially compromising the quality of healthcare services provided to women in these countries.


Subject(s)
Abortion, Induced , Contraception , Reproductive Health Services , Humans , Europe , Female , Abortion, Induced/statistics & numerical data , Reproductive Health Services/standards , Surveys and Questionnaires , Contraception/methods , Contraception/statistics & numerical data , Pregnancy , Health Services Accessibility/statistics & numerical data , Family Planning Services/statistics & numerical data
7.
Heliyon ; 10(10): e31096, 2024 May 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38784529

ABSTRACT

The development of rural clean energy is the key to cope with the shortage of traditional energy supply in the rural revitalization strategy and improve the sustainability of rural energy supply. Under the background of digital age, the development and utilization of rural clean energy Internet has become the focus of rural economic development. The government partners of the Rural clean Energy Internet PPP project (RCEIPPPP) are the key to promoting the green and intelligent development of rural energy. In this paper, the index system of project partner selection is constructed, and the problem of government partner selection for RCEIPPPP is studied by AHP and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation. The results of this study are as follows: 1) Partners' financial ability, technical ability, management ability, performance experience, corporate reputation, cooperation ability and risk management are the influencing factors for government partner selection of rural clean energy Internet PPP projects (RCEIPPPPs); 2) Compared with other factors, financial ability, technical ability, management ability and performance experience are the four key factors that are more important in choosing partners; 3) The empirical research shows that AHP, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation and the index system constructed by this research can be applied to the practice of government partner selection for RCEIPPPPs. This study puts forward the evaluation system of government cooperation selection of energy Internet PPP projects from the theoretical level, improves the existing research methods, and makes the theoretical system in this field more complete. From the practical level, it provides scientific basis and suggestions for the government to make decisions on energy Internet PPP projects, and improves the engineering efficiency and quality of rural clean energy Internet construction. This study demonstrates the complexity of clean energy projects, the need for an integrated approach to decision-making, and the need for project managers to actively manage communication and collaboration with partners to ensure successful project implementation.

8.
Anim Nutr ; 17: 177-187, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38779326

ABSTRACT

Diet is a major modulator of animal resilience and its three pillars: host's immune response, gut microbiota, and intestinal barrier. In the present study, we endeavour to delineate a challenging condition aimed to degrade these pillars and elucidate its impact on broiler performance and nutrient digestibility. To attain this objective, we opted to use guar gum (GG) as a source of galactomannan. A series of three in vivo experiments were conducted employing conventional or semi-purified diets, supplemented with or without GG during the grower phase (14-28 d). Our findings demonstrate a substantial decline in animal performance metrics such as body weight (reduced by 29%, P < 0.001), feed intake (decreased by 12%, P < 0.001), and feed conversion ratio (up to 58% increase, P < 0.001) in the presence of GG at 2%. The supplementation of a semi-purified diet with incremental doses of GG resulted in a linear reduction (P < 0.001) in the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter and apparent metabolisable energy. Additionally, a marked reduction in ileal endogenous losses, as well as apparent and standardised digestibility of all amino acids with varying proportions (P < 0.05), was observed. These alterations were accompanied by disrupted gut integrity assessed by fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-d) (P < 0.001) as well as an inflammatory status characterised by elevated levels of acute-phase proteins, namely orosomucoid and serum amyloid A in the sera (P = 0.03), and increased mRNA expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, Inos, and K203 genes in the ileum, along with a decrease in IgA levels in the gut lumen (P < 0.05). Microbial ecology and activity were characterised by reduced diversity and richness (Shannon index, P = 0.005) in the presence of GG. Consequently, our results revealed diminished levels of short-chain fatty acids (P = 0.01) and their producer genera, such as Clostridium_XIVa and Blautia, in the gut caeca, coupled with excessive accumulation of lactate (17-fold increase, P < 0.01) in the presence of GG at 2%. In addition to providing a more comprehensive characterisation of the GG supplementation as a leaky gut model, our results substantiate a thorough understanding of the intricate adjustments and interplay between the intestinal barrier, immune response, and microbiota. Furthermore, they underscore the significance of feed components in modulating these dynamics.

9.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 299: 345-349, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38797618

ABSTRACT

Maternal mortality data and review are important indicators of the effectiveness of maternity healthcare systems and an impetus for action. Recently, a rising incidence of maternal mortality in high income countries has been reported. Various publications have raised concern about data collection methods at country level, as this usually relies mainly on national vital statistics. It is therefore essential that the collected data are complete and accurate and conform to international definitions and disease classification. Accurate data and review can only be truly available when an Enhanced Obstetric Surveillance System is in place. EBCOG calls for action by national societies to work closely with their respective ministries of health to ensure that high quality surveillance systems are in place.


Subject(s)
Maternal Mortality , Humans , Female , Europe/epidemiology , Pregnancy , Obstetrics/standards , Gynecology/standards , Population Surveillance/methods , Societies, Medical
10.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 299: 342-344, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38811292

ABSTRACT

One in three women will experience pelvic floor disorders in her lifetime and nearly 60 percent of postmenopausal women are affected by vaginal dryness. Conservative management is recommended as first line treatment for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. Also, vaginal estrogens are often prescribed for symptomatic vaginal atrophy. Lasers have been used in cosmetic industry for connective tissue remodeling and repair of skin. Their use in the last decade for treating genitourinary symptoms of menopause, pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence has gained popularity but there is lack of robust evidence to support its use in routine practice. The European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology calls for high quality evidence with patient related outcome measures before adopting to routine clinical practice.


Subject(s)
Laser Therapy , Menopause , Pelvic Organ Prolapse , Urinary Incontinence, Stress , Vagina , Humans , Female , Urinary Incontinence, Stress/therapy , Pelvic Organ Prolapse/therapy , Vagina/surgery , Laser Therapy/methods , Gynecology , Vaginal Diseases/therapy , Europe
11.
BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil ; 16(1): 110, 2024 May 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38750518

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a common condition affecting the masticatory muscles and joint mobility. OBJECTIVES: The primary objective was to compare the effects of massage therapy alone and massage therapy combined with post-isometric relaxation exercises in patients with TMD for pain and maximal mouth opening. DESIGN: Assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Chaudhry Muhammad Akram Dental Hospital, Lahore Medical and Dental Hospital. SUBJECTS: Temporomandibular joint disorder patients. INTERVENTION: Group A (n = 23) received conventional treatment including massage and therapeutic exercises consecutively for 2 weeks. Group B (n = 23) received post-isometric relaxation technique along with conventional treatment for consecutive 2 weeks. MAIN MEASURES: The main outcome measures were pain and maximal mouth opening. Pain was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and maximal mouth opening (MMO) was measured using the TheraBite Scale. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain and MMO scores post-treatment. However, Group B (massage with post-isometric relaxation exercises) showed significantly better outcomes compared to Group A (massage alone). There was a statistically significant difference in post-treatment pain scores (P = 0.000) and MMO scores (P = 0.000) between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that massage therapy combined with post-isometric relaxation is more effective than massage therapy alone in managing pain and improving mouth opening in TMD patients. The study provides evidence supporting the use of these therapies in TMD management. TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER: NCT05810831. Date of registration/First submission: 15 March 2023.

12.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 11589, 2024 May 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38773102

ABSTRACT

In this manuscript we demonstrate interval-valued bipolar complex fuzzy set (IVBCFS) and then interval-valued bipolar complex fuzzy soft set (IVBCFSS), as a generalization of fuzzy set, interval-valued fuzzy set, bipolar fuzzy set, complex fuzzy set and soft set. We also initiate operational laws and basic results and properties for IVBCFS and IVBCFSS. Further explanation is given for the basic algebraic operations like complement, extended union, extended intersection, restricted union, and restricted intersection, AND product and OR product for IVBCFSS. Moreover, we demonstrate some fundamental aggregation operators like IVBCFS average aggregation, IVBCFS geometric and as well as their properties. To emphasize the usefulness and application of the system, we also develop the decision-making method and joint instances of the IVBCFSS (set-ups 1 and 2). In order to describe the effectiveness and influence of the approaching novel work, this study uses a comparative analysis of the new creating concept with prevailing ideas.

13.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 11892, 2024 May 24.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38789456

ABSTRACT

In recent days researchers have tried to handle the maximum information and use those techniques and methods in which there is no chance of data loss or loss of information is minimum. The structure like fuzzy set and complex fussy set cannot discuss the upper and lower approximations. Moreover, we can observe that a fuzzy rough set cannot discuss the second dimension and in this case, there is a chance of data loss. To cover all these issues in previous ideas, the notion of a complex fuzzy rough set in Cartesian form is the demand of the day because this structure can discuss the second dimension as well as upper and lower approximations. For this purpose, in this manuscript, we have developed the theory of complex fuzzy relation and complex fuzzy rough set in Cartesian form. Moreover, we have initiated the fundamental laws for complex fuzzy rough numbers based on Frank t-norm and t-conorm. The fundamental tools that can convert the overall input into a single output are called aggregation operators (AOs). So based on the characteristics of AOs, we have defined the notion of complex fuzzy rough Frank average and complex fuzzy rough Frank geometric AOs. The utilization of the developed theory is necessary to show the importance and validity of the delivered approach. So based on developed notions, we have defined an algorithm for this purpose along with an illustrative example. We have utilized the introduced structure for the classification of AI tools for civil engineering. Moreover, the comparative analysis of the delivered approach shows the advancement of the introduced structure as compared to existing notions.

14.
Heliyon ; 10(5): e27323, 2024 Mar 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38562496

ABSTRACT

Every problem in decision-making has a solution when the information that is available is properly and precisely modeled. This study focuses on non-binary data from N-soft sets and q-rung orthopair fuzzy values, referred to as group-based generalized q-rung orthopair fuzzy N-soft sets (GGq-ROFNSSs). The GGq-ROFNSSs model provides information simultaneously on numerous competing criteria, alternatives, sub-alternatives, and data summarization. We introduce properties of GGq-ROFNSSs such as distinct inclusion features of GGq-ROFNSSs, weak complements of the GGq-ROFNSS, top weak complements the GGq-ROFNSS, bottom weak complements the GGq-ROFNSS. We provide the notion of GGq-ROFNSWA and GGq-ROFNSWG operators as well as their idempotency, monotonicity, and boundedness features. The notion of GGq-ROFNSSs requires a sound methodology of multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) since GGq-ROFNSS combines numerous elements of complex decision-making. We provide a MCDM methodology for the GGq-ROFNSWA and GGq-ROFNSWG operators and depict it in a flowchart. The selection of solar panels for a city is a difficult procedure because it depends on several components such as environment, where the area is located, what kinds of needs are being met, etc. We find a solution to the problem of selecting a suitable solar panel for a city with their underlying characteristics. Finally, we provide a comparison of the suggested method with other techniques to demonstrate its advantages.

15.
ACS Omega ; 9(9): 10498-10516, 2024 Mar 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38463273

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the current research is to formulate a smart drug delivery system for solubility enhancement and sustained release of hydrophobic drugs. Drug solubility-related challenges constitute a significant concern for formulation scientists. To address this issue, a recent study focused on developing PEG-g-poly(MAA) copolymeric nanogels to enhance the solubility of olmesartan, a poorly soluble drug. The researchers employed a free radical polymerization technique to formulate these nanogels. Nine formulations were formulated. The newly formulated nanogels underwent comprehensive tests, including physicochemical assessments, dissolution studies, solubility evaluations, toxicity investigations, and stability examinations. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) investigations confirmed the successful encapsulation of olmesartan within the nanogels, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies verified their thermal stability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed the presence of pores on the surface of the nanogels, facilitating water penetration and promoting rapid drug release. Moreover, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) studies indicated that the prepared nanogels exhibited an amorphous structure. The nanogel carrier system led to a significant enhancement in olmesartan's solubility, achieving a remarkable 12.3-fold increase at pH 1.2 and 13.29-fold rise in phosphate buffer of pH 6.8 (NGP3). Significant swelling was observed at pH 6.8 compared to pH 1.2. Moreover, the formulated nexus is nontoxic and biocompatible and depicts considerable potential for delivery of drugs and protein as well as heat-sensitive active moieties.

16.
Heliyon ; 10(3): e24767, 2024 Feb 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38371962

ABSTRACT

In this article, we derive the Archimedean aggregation operators for complex intuitionistic fuzzy sets, for this, first, we evaluate some Archimedean operational laws based on complex intuitionistic fuzzy values and then we discuss their special cases because the Archimedean norms are the general form of all existing norms, for instance, algebraic, Einstein, Hamacher, and Frank operational laws. Furthermore, we present the complex intuitionistic fuzzy Archimedean Heronian aggregation operator and complex intuitionistic fuzzy weighted Archimedean Heronian aggregation operator. Several special cases and the basic properties of the above-proposed operators are also diagnosed, because proposing the Heronian mean operators based on Archimedean norms are very challenging and complicated tasks, because of their features and structure. Additionally, a decision-making process is developed under the identified operators by using complex intuitionistic fuzzy information. Finally, we illustrate several examples to show the multi-attribute decision-making technique is more flexible than the prevailing works with the help of sensitive analysis between explored and certain prevailing works.

17.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 2639, 2024 02 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38302519

ABSTRACT

Pakistan is facing a high prevalence of malnutrition and Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) is one of the core indicators that remain below the recommended level. This study assesses MDD and its associated factors among children aged 6 to 23 months in Pakistan. The study uses a cross-sectional study using the dataset of the latest available Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey (MICS) for all provinces of Pakistan. Multistage sampling is used to select 18,699 children aged 6 to 23 months. The empirical method is the Logistic Regression Analysis and Chi-Square Test. The dataset is freely and publicly available with all identifier information removed, and no ethics approvals are required. About one-fifth (20%) of infants and young children aged 6 to 23 months had met MDD, this number varies from 17 to 29%, highest in Baluchistan and lowest in Punjab province of Pakistan. The age group (18-23) indicates a 2.45 times greater chance of having MDD. Age (< 0.001), diarrhea (0.01), prenatal care (0.06), mother's education (< 0.001), computer access (< 0.001), wealth quantile (< 0.001), and residence (< 0.001) were significantly associated with meeting MDD. However, gender (0.6) and mother's age (0.4) both were statistically insignificant in meeting MDD. Regarding mothers' education, compared to no education, the chance of MDD is 1.45 times greater for highly educated mothers in the Punjab province. Dietary diversity among children aged 6 to 23 months in Pakistan is low. It is recommended that mothers should be aware and encouraged to use dietary diverse food for infants and younger children.


Subject(s)
Diet , Malnutrition , Infant , Female , Pregnancy , Child , Humans , Child, Preschool , Pakistan/epidemiology , Cross-Sectional Studies , Socioeconomic Factors
18.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol ; 295: 124-125, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38354604

ABSTRACT

Pre-term birth is associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. Pre-term births are associated with significant health and neuro-developmental risks in childhood and adulthood. Women with multiple pregnancies are at much higher risks. Low levels of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are associated with higher risk of pre-term labour and increased consumption of foods rich in omega-3 PUFA or supplements are associated with a 11 % and 42 % risk reduction of early and late preterm births, respectively.


Subject(s)
Fatty Acids, Omega-3 , Gynecology , Premature Birth , Pregnancy , Infant, Newborn , Female , Humans , Premature Birth/prevention & control , Docosahexaenoic Acids , Eicosapentaenoic Acid
19.
J Clin Lipidol ; 18(1): e50-e58, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37923663

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Oxidized forms of cholesterol (oxysterols) are implicated in atherogenesis and can accumulate in the body via direct absorption from food or through oxidative reactions of endogenous cholesterol, inducing the formation of LDL particles loaded with oxidized cholesterol. It remains unknown whether drastic reductions in LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) are associated with changes in circulating oxysterols and whether small dense LDL (sdLDL) are more likely to carry these oxysterols and susceptible to the effects of PCSK9 inhibition (PCSK9i). OBJECTIVE: We investigate the effect of LDL-C reduction accomplished via PCSK9i on changes in plasma levels of sdLDL-cholesterol (sdLDL-C) and a common, stable oxysterol, 7-ketocholesterol (7-KC), among 134 patients referred to our Preventive Cardiology clinic. METHODS: Plasma lipid panel, sdLDL-C, and 7-KC measurements were obtained from patients before and after initiation of PCSK9i. RESULTS: The intervention caused a significant lowering of LDL-C (-55.4 %). The changes in sdLDL-C levels (mean reduction 51.4 %) were highly correlated with the reductions in LDL-C levels (R = 0.829, p < 0.001). Interestingly, whereas changes in plasma free 7-KC levels with PCSK9i treatment were much smaller than (-6.6 %) and did not parallel those of LDL-C and sdLDL-C levels, they did significantly correlate with changes in triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C) levels (R = 0.219, p = 0.025). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest a non-preferential clearance of LDL subparticles as a consequence of LDL receptor upregulation caused by PCSK9 inhibition. Moreover, the lack of significant reduction in 7-KC with PCSK9i suggests that 7-KC may be in part carried by VLDL and lost during lipoprotein processing leading to LDL formation.


Subject(s)
Ketocholesterols , Proprotein Convertase 9 , Humans , Cholesterol, LDL
20.
Plant Sci ; 339: 111926, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37984609

ABSTRACT

Seasonal changes are crucial in shifting the developmental stages from the vegetative phase to the reproductive phase in plants, enabling them to flower under optimal conditions. Plants grown at different latitudes sense and interpret these seasonal variations, such as changes in day length (photoperiod) and exposure to cold winter temperatures (vernalization). These environmental factors influence the expression of various genes related to flowering. Plants have evolved to stimulate a rapid response to environmental conditions through genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Multiple epigenetic regulation systems have emerged in plants to interpret environmental signals. During the transition to the flowering phase, changes in gene expression are facilitated by chromatin remodeling and small RNAs interference, particularly in annual and perennial plants. Key flowering regulators, such as FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) and FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), interact with various factors and undergo chromatin remodeling in response to seasonal cues. The Polycomb silencing complex (PRC) controls the expression of flowering-related genes in photoperiodic flowering regulation. Under vernalization-dependent flowering, FLC acts as a potent flowering suppressor by downregulating the gene expression of various flower-promoting genes. Eventually, PRCs are critically involved in the regulation of FLC and FT locus interacting with several key genes in photoperiod and vernalization. Subsequently, PRCs also regulate Epigenetical events during gametogenesis and seed development as a driving force. Furthermore, DNA methylation in the context of CHG, CG, and CHH methylation plays a critical role in embryogenesis. DNA glycosylase DME (DEMETER) is responsible for demethylation during seed development. Thus, the review briefly discusses flowering regulation through light signaling, day length variation, temperature variation and seed development in plants.


Subject(s)
Arabidopsis Proteins , Arabidopsis , Arabidopsis Proteins/metabolism , Arabidopsis/genetics , Epigenesis, Genetic , Plants/metabolism , Flowers , Photoperiod , Seeds/genetics , Seeds/metabolism , Gene Expression Regulation, Plant , MADS Domain Proteins/metabolism
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