Hepatitis E virus(HEV)is hyperendemic in South Asia and Africa accounting for half of total Global HEV burden.There are eight genotypes of HEV.Among them,the four common ones known to infect humans,genotypes 1 and 2 a...Hepatitis E virus(HEV)is hyperendemic in South Asia and Africa accounting for half of total Global HEV burden.There are eight genotypes of HEV.Among them,the four common ones known to infect humans,genotypes 1 and 2 are prevalent in the developing world and genotypes 3 and 4 are causing challenge in the industrialized world.Asymptomatic HEV viremia in the general population,especially among blood donors,has been reported in the literature worldwide.The clinical implications related to this asymptomatic viremia are unclear and need further exploration.Detection of viremia due to HEV genotype 1 infection,apparently among healthy blood donors is also reported without much knowledge about its infection rate.Similarly,while HEV genotype 3 is known to be transmitted via blood transfusion in humans and has been subjected to screening in many European nations,instances of transmission have also been documented albeit without significant clinical consequences.Epidemiology of HEV genotype 1 in endemic areas often show waxing and waning pattern.Occasional sporadic occurrence of HEV infection interrupted by outbreaks have been frequently seen.In absence of known animal reservoir,where HEV exists in between outbreak is a mystery that needs further exploration.However,occurrence of asymptomatic HEV viremia due to HEV genotype 1 during epidemiologically quiescent period may explain that this phenomenon may act as a dynamic reservoir.Since HEV genotype 1 infection cannot cause chronicity,subclinical transient infection and transmission of virus might be the reason it sustains in interepidemic period.This might be the similar phenomenon with SARS COVID-19 corona virus infection which is circulating worldwide in distinct phases with peaks and plateaus despite vaccination against it.In view of existing evidence,we propose the concept of“Dynamic Human Reservoir.”Quiescent subclinical infection of HEV without any clinical consequences and subsequent transmission may contribute to the existence of the virus in a community.The potential for transmitting HEV infection by asymptomatic HEV infected individuals by fecal shedding of virus has not been reported in literature.This missing link may be a key to Pandora's box in understanding epidemiology of HEV infection in genotype 1 predominant region.展开更多
Background:Mastitis caused by different pathogens including Streptococcus uberis(S.uberis)is responsible for huge economic losses to the dairy industry.In order to investigate the potential genetic and epigenetic regu...Background:Mastitis caused by different pathogens including Streptococcus uberis(S.uberis)is responsible for huge economic losses to the dairy industry.In order to investigate the potential genetic and epigenetic regulatory mecha‑nisms of subclinical mastitis due to S.uberis,the DNA methylome(whole genome DNA methylation sequencing)and transcriptome(RNA sequencing)of milk somatic cells from cows with naturally occurring S.uberis subclinical mastitis and healthy control cows(n=3/group)were studied.Results:Globally,the DNA methylation levels of CpG sites were low in the promoters and first exons but high in inner exons and introns.The DNA methylation levels at the promoter,first exon and first intron regions were nega‑tively correlated with the expression level of genes at a whole‑genome‑wide scale.In general,DNA methylation level was lower in S.uberis‑positive group(SUG)than in the control group(CTG).A total of 174,342 differentially methylated cytosines(DMCs)(FDR<0.05)were identified between SUG and CTG,including 132,237,7412 and 34,693 DMCs in the context of CpG,CHG and CHH(H=A or T or C),respectively.Besides,101,612 methylation haplotype blocks(MHBs)were identified,including 451 MHBs that were significantly different(dMHB)between the two groups.A total of 2130 differentially expressed(DE)genes(1378 with up‑regulated and 752 with down‑regulated expression)were found in SUG.Integration of methylome and transcriptome data with MethGET program revealed 1623 genes with signifi‑cant changes in their methylation levels and/or gene expression changes(MetGDE genes,MethGET P‑value<0.001).Functional enrichment of genes harboring≥15 DMCs,DE genes and MetGDE genes suggest significant involvement of DNA methylation changes in the regulation of the host immune response to S.uberis infection,especially cytokine activities.Furthermore,discriminant correlation analysis with DIABLO method identified 26 candidate biomarkers,including 6 DE genes,15 CpG‑DMCs and 5 dMHBs that discriminated between SUG and CTG.Conclusion:The integration of methylome and transcriptome of milk somatic cells suggests the possible involve‑ment of DNA methylation changes in the regulation of the host immune response to subclinical mastitis due to S.uberis.The presented genetic and epigenetic biomarkers could contribute to the design of management strategies of subclinical mastitis and breeding for mastitis resistance.展开更多
Background Subclinical intramammary infection(IMI)represents a significant problem in maintaining dairy cows’health.Disease severity and extent depend on the interaction between the causative agent,environment,and ho...Background Subclinical intramammary infection(IMI)represents a significant problem in maintaining dairy cows’health.Disease severity and extent depend on the interaction between the causative agent,environment,and host.To investigate the molecular mechanisms behind the host immune response,we used RNA-Seq for the milk somatic cells(SC)transcriptome profiling in healthy cows(n=9),and cows naturally affected by subclinical IMI from Proto-theca spp.(n=11)and Streptococcus agalactiae(S.agalactiae;n=11).Data Integration Analysis for Biomarker discov-ery using Latent Components(DIABLO)was used to integrate transcriptomic data and host phenotypic traits related to milk composition,SC composition,and udder health to identify hub variables for subclinical IMI detection.Results A total of 1,682 and 2,427 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified when comparing Prototheca spp.and S.agalactiae to healthy animals,respectively.Pathogen-specific pathway analyses evidenced that Proto-theca’s infection upregulated antigen processing and lymphocyte proliferation pathways while S.agalactiae induced a reduction of energy-related pathways like the tricarboxylic acid cycle,and carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.The integrative analysis of commonly shared DEGs between the two pathogens(n=681)referred to the core-mastitis response genes,and phenotypic data evidenced a strong covariation between those genes and the flow cytometry immune cells(r2=0.72),followed by the udder health(r2=0.64)and milk quality parameters(r2=0.64).Variables with r≥0.90 were used to build a network in which the top 20 hub variables were identified with the Cytoscape cyto-hubba plug-in.The genes in common between DIABLO and cytohubba(n=10)were submitted to a ROC analysis which showed they had excellent predictive performances in terms of discriminating healthy and mastitis-affected animals(sensitivity>0.89,specificity>0.81,accuracy>0.87,and precision>0.69).Among these genes,CIITA could play a key role in regulating the animals’response to subclinical IMI.Conclusions Despite some differences in the enriched pathways,the two mastitis-causing pathogens seemed to induce a shared host immune-transcriptomic response.The hub variables identified with the integrative approach might be included in screening and diagnostic tools for subclinical IMI detection.展开更多
Background:Mushrooms are a good source of many nutrients which are potentially beneficial for chronic diseases.We speculated that due to its abundant nutrients edible mushrooms might have a beneficial effect on the pr...Background:Mushrooms are a good source of many nutrients which are potentially beneficial for chronic diseases.We speculated that due to its abundant nutrients edible mushrooms might have a beneficial effect on the prevention of subclinical thyroid dysfunction(SCTD).Therefore,we designed a large-scale cohort study to examine whether mushrooms consumption is a protective factor for SCTD in adults.Methods:This prospective cohort study investigated 6631 participants(mean age:(45.0±10.2)years;55.1%men).Edible mushrooms consumption was measured at baseline using a validated food frequency questionnaire.SCTD was defined as abnormal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels and normal free thyroxine.Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the association of edible mushrooms consumption with incident SCTD.Results:During follow-up period,a total of 262 new cases of SCTD were identified,the incidence rate of subclinical hypothyroidism was 8.9/1000 person-years and subclinical hyperthyroidism was 7.2/1000 person-years.After adjusting potential confounding factors,the multivariable hazard ratios(95%confidence intervals)for subclinical hypothyroidism were 1.00(reference)for almost never,0.53(0.29,0.97)for 1-3 times/week and 0.30(0.10,0.87)for≥4 times/week(P for trend=0.02).It also showed edible mushrooms consumption was inversely associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in obese individuals but not non-obese individuals,the final hazard ratios(95%confidence intervals)were 0.14(0.03,0.73)(P for trend<0.01).Conclusions:This population-based prospective cohort study has firstly demonstrated that higher edible mushrooms consumption was significantly associated with lower incidence of subclinical hypothyroidism among general adult population,especially in obese individuals.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the effect of Danzhijiangtang capsule(DJC) on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1) mRNA expression in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) subclinical vascular lesions.METHODS:Sixty-t...AIM:To investigate the effect of Danzhijiangtang capsule(DJC) on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1) mRNA expression in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) subclinical vascular lesions.METHODS:Sixty-two patients with newly diagnosed T2DM subclinical vascular lesions were randomly divided into a control group and treatment group of 31 cases each.Oral antidiabetic therapy with routine western medicine was conducted in both groups,and the treatment group was additionally treated with DJCs.The treatment course for both groups was 12 wk.Before and after treatment,the total efficiency and traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome score were calculated.The fasting plasma glucose(FPG),2-h plasma glucose(2hPG),fasting insulin(FINS),insulin resistance index(IRI),hemoglobin(Hb)A1c,blood lipids,and hemorheology indices were determined.In addition,the levels of vascular endothelial growth factors including thrombomodulin(TM),von Willebrand factor(vWF),P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA were determined.RESULTS:After 12 wk of treatment,the TCM syndrome score was significantly decreased compared to before treatment in both groups.After treatment,FPG,2hPG,HbA1c,FINS,IRI,total cholesterol,triglycerides,low-density lipoprotein,high-density lipoprotein,whole blood low shear specific viscosity,plasma specific viscosity,TM,vWF,P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA were significantly improved compared to before treatment in both groups.After treatment,the total efficiency and TCM syndrome score in the treatment group were better than in the control group.FINS,IRI,whole blood high shear specific viscosity,plasma specific viscosity,TM,vWF,P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA level in the treatment group were significantly reduced after treatment compared with control group.CONCLUSION:DJCs are efficacious in supplementing qi,nourishing yin and invigorating blood circulation,and upregulate MCP-1 mRNA expression in patients with T2DM subclinical vascular lesions.展开更多
INTRODUCTION: Overt hypothyroidism in pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes, but the effects of subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia on pregnancy outcomes are still controversial. Subclinic...INTRODUCTION: Overt hypothyroidism in pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes, but the effects of subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia on pregnancy outcomes are still controversial. Subclinical hypothyroidism might be associated with preterm delivery, low Apgar score, fetal death and miscarriages and isolated hypothyroxinemia with preterm labor, high birth weight and neurocognitive deficits in children. Other studies show no association with any complications at all. In the present study we tried to estimate whether maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia are associated with complications during pregnancy in our population which represents the pregnant population of Western Greece. METHODS: In a total of 469 pregnant women, third trimester serum was assayed for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (free T4). Thyroid hypofunction was defined as 1) subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH levels above 3 mIU/L for the 3rd trimester and normal free T4 and 2) isolated hypothyroxinemia with TSH levels below 3 mIU/L for the 3rd trimester and free T4 below the 5th percentile. The results were associated with birth weight, week of labor, history of miscarriages and demographic characteristics. Patients with thyroid hypofunction were compared with euthyroid patients (TSH and free T4 between normal limits). The results were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and χ2 test. RESULTS: Subclinical hypothyroidism was documented in 10.9% and isolated hypothyroxinemia in 21.7% of pregnant women. Subclinical hypothyroidism was not associated with birth weight, week of labor, or history of miscarriages. On the contrary, hypothyroxinemia was associated with high birth weight (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In our study, we did not find a link between subclinical hypothyroidism and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Similarly, hypothyroxinemia was not associated with pregnancy complications. However, it was associated with higher birth weight. Our studies contribute to our understanding, whether or not subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia are associated with pregnancy adverse outcomes and whether treatment and test for hypothyroidism should become routine during pregnancy.展开更多
Background: Subclinical necrotic enteritis(SNE), a common intestinal disease of broiler caused by Clostridium perfringens, could reduce production performance of broilers by chronic intestinal damage and poor absorpti...Background: Subclinical necrotic enteritis(SNE), a common intestinal disease of broiler caused by Clostridium perfringens, could reduce production performance of broilers by chronic intestinal damage and poor absorption of nutrients. Ellagic acid(EA) has been reported to present antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties on human and animals in many aspects. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect and mechanism of EA in relieving SNE in broilers induced by C. perfringens.Results: C. perfringens challenge decreased body weight(BW), average daily gain(ADG), jejunal villi height/crypt depth(V/C) ratio, the activity of catalase(CAT) and the mRNA expression of zonula occludens 1(ZO-1) in jejunal mucosa of broilers. While feed conversion ratios(FCR), jejunal crypt depth(CD), the activities of myeloperoxidase(MPO) and diamine oxidase(DAO), as well as the concentrations of interleukin 6(IL-6), C-reactive protein(CRP) and procalcitonin(PCT) in serum, the activities of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) and lysozyme(LZM), the concentration of malondialdehyde(MDA), and the mRNA expressions of claudin-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, TLR-4, TLR-2, NF-κB,JAK3, STAT6 and iNOS in jejunal mucosa of broilers were increased by C. perfringens challenge. Dietary EA supplement relieved these adverse effects, and heightened jejunal villi height(VH), the concentration of D-xylose in plasma, activity of superoxide dismutase(SOD), and the mRNA expression of occludin in jejunal mucosa of broilers.The alpha diversity of cecal microbiota indicated that dietary EA supplement increased observed species and Shannon index. C. perfringens challenge increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and decreased the relative abundance of Desulfobacterota in cecal microbiota. EA increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes in cecal microbiota. LEfSe analysis showed that C. perfringens challenge triggered the imbalance of cecal microbiota in broilers, dietary EA supplementation led to a small beneficial effect on microbiota, while the simultaneous effect of them seemed to stimulate the immune function of broilers by improving the microbiota balance.Conclusions: Dietary EA ameliorated C. perfringens-induced SNE in broilers via regulating jejunal inflammation signaling pathways TLR/NF-κB and JAK3/STAT6, relieving jejunal oxidative stress and balancing cecal microbiota to inhibit intestinal barrier damage, prevent systemic inflammatory response and improve nutrient absorption capacity,finally protect and enhance growth performance of broilers.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the diagnostic ability of topographic and tomographic indices with Pentacam and Sirius as well as biomechanical parameters with Corvis ST for the detection of clinical and subclinical forms of keratoco...AIM:To evaluate the diagnostic ability of topographic and tomographic indices with Pentacam and Sirius as well as biomechanical parameters with Corvis ST for the detection of clinical and subclinical forms of keratoconus(KCN).METHODS:In this prospective diagnostic test study,70 patients with clinical KCN,79 patients with abnormal findings in topography and tomography maps with no evidence on clinical examination(subclinical KCN),and 68 normal control subjects were enrolled.The accuracy of topographic,tomographic,and biomechanical parameters was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)and cross-validation analysis.The Delong method was used for comparing AUCs.RESULTS:In distinguishing KCN from normal,all parameters showed statistically significant differences between the two groups(P<0.001).Indices with the perfect diagnostic ability(AUC≥0.999)were Sirius KCN vertex of back(KVb),Pentacam random forest index(PRFI),Pentacam index of height decentration(IHD),and Corvis integrated tomographic/biomechanical index(TBI).In distinguishing subclinical KCN from normal,Sirius symmetry index of back(SIb;AUC=0.908),Pentacam inferior-superior difference(IS)value(AUC=0.862),PRFI(AUC=0.847),and Corvis TBI(AUC=0.820)performed best.There were no significant differences between the highest AUCs within keratoconic groups(De Long,P>0.05).CONCLUSION:In clinical KCN,all topographic,tomographic,and biomechanical indices have acceptable outcomes in terms of sensitivity and specificity.However,in differentiating subclinical forms of KCN from normal corneas,curvature-based parameters(SIb and IS value)followed by integrated indices(PRFI and TBI)are the most powerful tools for early detection of KCN.展开更多
Objective Ideal cardiovascular health(CVH) could predict a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the association between ideal CVH and subclinical atherosclerosis in...Objective Ideal cardiovascular health(CVH) could predict a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the association between ideal CVH and subclinical atherosclerosis in a population cohort of Chinese adults aged ≥ 40 years. Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional analysis of 8,395 participants who had complete data at baseline and a prospective analysis of 4,879 participants who had complete data at 4.3 years of follow-up. Ideal CVH metrics were defined according to the American Heart Association. Subclinical atherosclerosis was evaluated by plaques in carotid arteries, carotid intima-media thickness(CIMT), brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV), and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio(UACR). Results Both the prevalence and incidence of atherosclerosis measures were found to be decreased with increasing numbers of ideal CVH metrics at baseline(all P values for trend < 0.01). The levels of CIMT and UACR at follow-up showed an inverse and significant association with the numbers of ideal CVH metrics at baseline(both P values for trend < 0.05) but a borderline significant association with baPWV(P for trend = 0.0505). Taking participants with 0-1 ideal metric as reference, we found that participants with 5-6 ideal metrics had significantly lower risks of developing carotid plaques(odds ratio, OR = 0.46; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.27-0.79), increased CIMT(OR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.42-0.84), and increased baPWV(OR = 0.57; 95% CI 0.34-0.97) after full adjustments. A significant interactive effect of age and CVH was detected on CIMT and baPWV progression(both P values for interaction < 0.05). Conclusion The numbers of ideal CVH metrics showed a significant and inverse association with the risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults, whereas its dose-response effect was attenuated in individuals aged ≥ 60 years and partially weakened in male participants.展开更多
In order to study the correlation of different degrees of subclinical mastitis and cytokines,the changes of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),interleukin-6(IL-6),interleukin-8(IL-8)and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)in blood a...In order to study the correlation of different degrees of subclinical mastitis and cytokines,the changes of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),interleukin-6(IL-6),interleukin-8(IL-8)and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)in blood and milk and whether the changes of these indexes were caused by mastitis were analyzed.The 40 Holstein cows in lactation period were tested and grouped by somatic cell count(SCC)method in milk:Group C(SCC<5×10~5 cells·mL^(-1)),Group I(5×10~5 cells·mL^(-1)5×10~6 cells·mL^(-1)).The contents of IL-1β,IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αwere analyzed by radioimmunoassay.The results showed that the contents of IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αin the blood and milk of different degrees of subclinical mastitis increased with the severity of mastitis,and were higher than those in normal group.The contents of IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αin serum and whey of dairy cows affected by different degrees of subclinical mastitis were higher than those in normal group(Group C).The content of IL-1βincreased and decreased with the increase of inflammation,and it did not have the value of evaluating mastitis.In conclusion,the severities of cow subclinical mastitis and the contents of cytokines were positive correlations.These indexes could be used as the basis for judging mammary gland injury.展开更多
BACKGROUND Adrenal incidentaloma(AI)has been frequently encountered in the clinical setting.It has been shown that primary aldosteronism(PA)or subclinical Cushing’s syndrome(SCS)are the representative causative disea...BACKGROUND Adrenal incidentaloma(AI)has been frequently encountered in the clinical setting.It has been shown that primary aldosteronism(PA)or subclinical Cushing’s syndrome(SCS)are the representative causative diseases of AI.However,the coexistence of PA and SCS has been reportedly observed.Recently,we encountered a case of AI,in which PA and SCS coexisted,confirmed by histopathological examinations after a laparoscopic adrenalectomy.We believe that there were some clinical implications in the diagnosis of the present case.CASE SUMMARY A 58-year-old man presented with lower right abdominal pain with a blood pressure of 170/100 mmHg.A subsequent computed tomography scan revealed right ureterolithiasis,which was the cause of right abdominal pain,and right AI measuring 22 mm×25 mm.After the disappearance of right abdominal pain,subsequent endocrinological examinations were performed.Aldosterone-related evaluations,including adrenal venous sampling,revealed the presence of bilateral PA.In addition,several cortisol-related evaluations showed the presence of SCS on the right adrenal adenoma.A laparoscopic right adrenalectomy was then performed.The histopathological examination of the resected right adrenal revealed the presence of a cortisol-producing adenoma,while CYP11B2 immunoreactivity was absent in this adenoma.However,in the adjacent nonneoplastic adrenal,multiple CYP11B2-positive adrenocortical micronodules were detected,showing the presence of aldosterone-producing adrenocortical micronodules.CONCLUSION Careful clinical and pathological examination should be performed when a patient harboring AI presents with concomitant SCS and PA.展开更多
Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is one of the major factors affecting the productivity of dairy cattle all over the world. This study established the burden of SCM and determined the potent antibacterial formulation for co...Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is one of the major factors affecting the productivity of dairy cattle all over the world. This study established the burden of SCM and determined the potent antibacterial formulation for control of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) related SCM in selected dairy cattle farms in Kiboga district. A total of 124 dairy cattle from 12 farms were screened for SCM using California Mastitis Test (CMT) from Kiboga Town-Council, Kapeke and Lwamata sub-counties. The offending bacteria were cultured and the antibiogram of SA was carried out using antibacterial susceptibility by the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Additional qualitative data on the factors that predispose cows to SCM was obtained through questionnaires and observation of milking Practice. The prevalence of SCM in the three sub-counties was 87.9%. Over 70% of the dairy cattle screened for SCM had more than 2 udder quarters affected. The majority (90%) of SCM was caused by mixed bacterial infections: Coagulase negative staphylococci (64.4%) and SA (16.6%) being the most prevalent. All the farmers (100%) lacked knowledge on SCM, udder towels, teat dipping and drug cow therapy. Overall, 71.4% of SA isolated was multi-drug resistant. There was a high level of resistance against penicillin (100%), neomycin (85.7%) and tetracycline (71.4%). In contrast, all the above isolates were susceptible to Trimethoprim-Sulphamethazole. In conclusion, the high burden of SCM and emergence of multidrug resistant SA are one of the constraints to dairy production in Kiboga district. Therefore, sensitization of dairy farmers in Kiboga district on proper hygienic, appropriate milking techniques and dry cow therapy using potentiated sulfonamide intra-mammary preparations are highly recommended in SA associated SCM.展开更多
Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism is characterized by normal circulating thyroid hormone levels with super-normal TSH concentrations in absence of clinical manifestations. In majority of subjects, an etiologic fa...Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism is characterized by normal circulating thyroid hormone levels with super-normal TSH concentrations in absence of clinical manifestations. In majority of subjects, an etiologic factor is often identified. Moreover, therapy with levothyroxine normalizes serum TSH concentration while maintaining normal thyroid hormone concentrations. However, the exact pathophysiology of these thyroid hormone alterations is not well defined. Objective: Major steps in synthesis i.e. iodine uptake and the release of thyroid hormones in response to SC TSH administration were assessed in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism. Methods: 10 men and 5 women with subclinical hypothyroidism, ages 42 - 76 years and 10 euthyroid men (39 - 70 years) participated. 24 hr 131Iodine thyroid uptake and serum T3, T4 and TSH concentrations were determined prior to and after SC administration of recombinant human TSH, 0.9 mg for two consecutive days. Comparisons were conducted for 24 hour uptake values as well as serum T3, T4 and TSH levels obtained prior to and after TSH administration. Results: In subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism 24 hour 131I thyroidal uptakes were normal (10% - 30%). However, the mean value was significantly lower, (p 3 and T4 concentrations in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism were not significantly different in comparison to normal subjects. Serum TSH concentrations were supernormal and therefore were significantly higher in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism in comparison to normal subjects and rose markedly in both groups following TSH administration with no significant difference among groups. Serum T4 and T3 rose significantly from PreTSH levels in both groups (p 131I Thyroid uptake is inhibited prior to as well as following SC TSH administration in comparison to normal subjects with maintenance of normal hormone release.展开更多
The aim of this work was to compare the use of local intrauterine moist heat infusion to intrauterine antibiotics infusion, for treatment of subclinical endometritis which affects reproduction and milk production. 42 ...The aim of this work was to compare the use of local intrauterine moist heat infusion to intrauterine antibiotics infusion, for treatment of subclinical endometritis which affects reproduction and milk production. 42 repeat breeder cows were divided into 4 groups, group 1 was the untreated control (=10 cows). Group 2 (=10 cows) was treated by 50 ml of Oxytetracycline 5% intrauterine for three successive weeks. Group 3 (=10 cows) intrauterine infusion with 30 ml saline adding to them 10 ml Gentamycin 10% and 10 ml penicillin and streptomycin for three successive weeks. Group 4 (=12 cows) intrauterine infusion with 50 ml sterile boiling water (≈100°C) was applied directly to the uterus for only one time. Leukogram was done before and after treatment, it showed leukocytosis and neutrophilia in all the study groups. After treatment for 36 hours and one week, there were no significant changes in the leukogram results of groups 1, 2 and 3. While in Group 4 showed decreasing in numbers of leukocytes (11.92 ± 0.75) and neutrophils (0.87 ± 0.16) to its normal limits after 36 hours and one-week post-treatment. Our new method gave the highest cumulative pregnancy rate 83.3% while other groups using antibiotics or antibiotics with saline gave lower pregnancy rate 40% and 50% respectively (P > 0.001). We named this new treatment method “Samia-treat;SAT”. SAT is a whole new and effective treatment for cases of repeat breeder which are caused by SCE in dairy cows;it caused increase in reproductive performance and cumulative pregnancy rate without over use of antibiotics.展开更多
Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increasing of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality due to accelerated atherosclerosis. Several studies showed also the increasing of the prevalence of ...Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increasing of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality due to accelerated atherosclerosis. Several studies showed also the increasing of the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis, but there are little data from sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, subclinical carotid atherosclerosis and the ability of the Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation (SCORE) modified by European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) to predict the high CV risk in our patients. Patients and Method: We conducted a cross sectional study in Senegalese patients with RA. The RA was retained according to 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)-European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria. Patients with RA were assessed in a clinical research consultation. Results: We included 50 RA patients. The mean age was 44 years (+/- 12.37) and the sex-ratiowas 0.06. The frequency distribution of traditional cardiovascular risk factors was: hypertension (HT) (30%), diabetes-mellitus (6%), smoking (2%), no-exercise (22%), obesity (16%), metabolic syndrome (8%). Fifty-eight percent of patients were classified at low cardiovascular risk according to mSCORE. 51.7% of patients classified as moderate-risk according to mSCORE, were reclassified as high cardiovascular risk according to carotid ultrasound evaluation (gold-standard). The sensitivity of the mSCORE in the prediction of high CV risk was low at 20%. In the present study, the prevalence of carotid subclinical atherosclerosis was 20%. Age (>45 years) and HT were correlated to subclinical atherosclerosis. Conclusion: In the present study, the prevalence of atherosclerosis in RA patients was higher than expected frequency in comparison with the prevalence in Senegalese general population. We showed that CV risk was underestimated by mSCORE which had a low sensitivity in the prediction of high risk. We showed also the importance of carotid ultrasound for an appropriate stratification of the risk.展开更多
Subclinical endometritis is a physiological inflammation that serves to clear persistent contaminants from the uterus. To investigate the alteration of antioxidant, such as vitamin E(VE) and vitamin C(VC), total oxida...Subclinical endometritis is a physiological inflammation that serves to clear persistent contaminants from the uterus. To investigate the alteration of antioxidant, such as vitamin E(VE) and vitamin C(VC), total oxidant capacity(TOC) and nitric oxide(NO) in cows with normal and subclinical endometritis(SCE), we examined the concentrations of NO, VC and VE, TOC and polymorphonuclear neutrophils(PMN) percentage in uterine secretion. The cows were divided into two groups, normal(n=20) and subclinical endometritis(SCE, n=60), based on endometrial cytology(presence of PMN≥5%). Uterine secretion and blood were collected as described previously. Griess reaction was used to determine the concentration of NO. The concentrations of TOC, VC and VE were detected by a commercially available assay kit. The results showed that the concentrations of NO, TOC and PMN percentage were significantly higher(P<0.01, P<0.05, and P<0.01, respectively) in uterine secretion with SCE compared to those from normal; however, the levels of VC and VE were significantly lesser(P<0.01). In conclusion, the concentrations of NO, TOC, VC, VE and PMN percentage differed between normal and SCE cows. Meanwhile, the relationship between the concentration of NO and PMN percentage from uterine secretion in cows with subclinical endometritis were positively correlated. Consequently, these alterations in NO, TOC, VC, VE levels and PMN percentage contributed to as a diagnostic index of the uterine inflammation, with the aim to increase the reproduction of the cows and the decrease economic losses.展开更多
Objective The association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)with subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases has been less investigated.We sought to examine the association between NLR and new-onset ...Objective The association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)with subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases has been less investigated.We sought to examine the association between NLR and new-onset subclinical macrovascular and microvascular abnormalities in the Chinese population.Methods From a community cohort,we included 6,430 adults aged≥40 years without subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases at baseline.We measured subclinical macrovascular and microvascular abnormalities separately using the ankle-brachial index(ABI),brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV),and albuminuria.Results During a mean follow-up of 4.3 years,110 participants developed incident abnormal ABI,746 participants developed incident elevated baPWV,and 503 participants developed incident albuminuria.Poisson regression analysis indicated that NLR was significantly associated with an increased risk of newonset abnormal ABI,elevated baPWV,and albuminuria.Compared to overweight/obese participants,we found a much stronger association between NLR and subclinical vascular abnormalities in participants with normal weight.Furthermore,we found an interaction between the NLR and body mass index(BMI)on the risk of new-onset abnormal ABI(P for interaction:0.01).Conclusion NLR was associated with subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases in the Chinese population.Furthermore,in participants with normal weight,the association between NLR and subclinical vascular abnormalities was much stronger.展开更多
Background: There is no effective treatment for children with subclinical hypothyroidism. The natural course of subclinical hypothyroidism shows a normalization rate of 41% for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Objec...Background: There is no effective treatment for children with subclinical hypothyroidism. The natural course of subclinical hypothyroidism shows a normalization rate of 41% for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Objective;The thyroid needs (among others) iron, iodine, and vitamin A for a proper thyroid hormone synthesis. We hypothesize that with a dietary change, more children can normalize their TSH. Design: In this case-control study, 54 children aged 1 - 14 years with subclinical hypothyroidism were divided into a diet group and a control group. The diet consisted of green vegetables, beef, full fat milk, and butter. The diet was followed for at least 3 months. A total of 27 patients comprised the diet group and 27 the control group. TSH, Free T4 (FT4), and Body Mass Index (BMI) were evaluated during the follow up. Results: By following this diet, TSH levels decreased significantly compared to when following the natural course. FT4 levels did not change during the follow up. The diet group realized a change of normalizing their TSH with a RR 2.8 (95% CI 1.45 - 5.61). There were no changes in BMI after following the diet. Conclusions: Even though our study population was small, we observed the association of a dietary change and normalization of TSH in children with subclinical hypothyroidism, without adverse effects.展开更多
Introduction: Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality causing mental handicap in humans. Children with DS have significant medical problems and developmental delay which are further impaired by h...Introduction: Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality causing mental handicap in humans. Children with DS have significant medical problems and developmental delay which are further impaired by hypothyroidism. Those clinical features are potentially improved by using thyroxine replacement therapy. Objectives: To examine the evidence of effectiveness (motor & mental development) and safety of thyroxine supplementation in the treatment of SH and CH in children with DS. Methods: Several medical data bases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, Clinical Trials Gov, Essential Evidence and Google) were searched until 20 October, 2011, for randomized control trials (RCTs) that had examined thyroxine’s effectiveness and safety in the treatment of SH or CH in children with DS. Results: There were two high quality RCTs that examined thyroxine in the treatment of CH in children with DS, and no RCTs were found to have examined the effectiveness of thyroxine for SH in children with DS. Conclusion: The RCT which met our inclusion criteria provides the reliable evidence in recommending thyroxine for the treatment of CH in children with DS which is similar to the guidelines for general population. The absence of RCTs examining the treatment of SH in Children with DS indicates the need to conduct such trials.展开更多
AIM: To determine the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism(SCH) and the metabolic syndrome(MS). METHODS: We performed a systematic search of databases [MEDLINE(July 1950 to July 2012), EMBASE(July 1966 to J...AIM: To determine the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism(SCH) and the metabolic syndrome(MS). METHODS: We performed a systematic search of databases [MEDLINE(July 1950 to July 2012), EMBASE(July 1966 to July 2012)] and the references of identified studies. Completely published cross-sectional studies of a general population involving SCH and the MS were included. The pooled odds ratio and weighted mean difference(WMD) for the outcomes were calculated using random-effects models.RESULTS: Six cross-sectional studies with 19546 participants were included. In total, 398 of 1324 participants(30.06%) in the SCH group had the MS compared with 4975 of 18222 participants(27.30%) in the euthyroid group [OR = 1.20; 95%CI: 1.05-1.36; P = 0.004; χ2 = 2.53(P = 0.773); I2 = 0%]. Further analysis of the components of the MS showed that SCH was associatedwith increased body mass index(WMD, 0.32 kg/m; 95%CI: 0.04-0.61; P = 0.026), systolic blood pressure(WMD, 2.62 mmH g; 95%CI: 1.35-3.89; P < 0.001) and triglyceride(WMD, 0.25 mmol/L; 95%CI: 0.23-0.28; P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: Based on the cross-sectional data, SCH may be associated with an increased risk of the MS, which could be attributed to the increased risk of metabolic components.展开更多
文摘Hepatitis E virus(HEV)is hyperendemic in South Asia and Africa accounting for half of total Global HEV burden.There are eight genotypes of HEV.Among them,the four common ones known to infect humans,genotypes 1 and 2 are prevalent in the developing world and genotypes 3 and 4 are causing challenge in the industrialized world.Asymptomatic HEV viremia in the general population,especially among blood donors,has been reported in the literature worldwide.The clinical implications related to this asymptomatic viremia are unclear and need further exploration.Detection of viremia due to HEV genotype 1 infection,apparently among healthy blood donors is also reported without much knowledge about its infection rate.Similarly,while HEV genotype 3 is known to be transmitted via blood transfusion in humans and has been subjected to screening in many European nations,instances of transmission have also been documented albeit without significant clinical consequences.Epidemiology of HEV genotype 1 in endemic areas often show waxing and waning pattern.Occasional sporadic occurrence of HEV infection interrupted by outbreaks have been frequently seen.In absence of known animal reservoir,where HEV exists in between outbreak is a mystery that needs further exploration.However,occurrence of asymptomatic HEV viremia due to HEV genotype 1 during epidemiologically quiescent period may explain that this phenomenon may act as a dynamic reservoir.Since HEV genotype 1 infection cannot cause chronicity,subclinical transient infection and transmission of virus might be the reason it sustains in interepidemic period.This might be the similar phenomenon with SARS COVID-19 corona virus infection which is circulating worldwide in distinct phases with peaks and plateaus despite vaccination against it.In view of existing evidence,we propose the concept of“Dynamic Human Reservoir.”Quiescent subclinical infection of HEV without any clinical consequences and subsequent transmission may contribute to the existence of the virus in a community.The potential for transmitting HEV infection by asymptomatic HEV infected individuals by fecal shedding of virus has not been reported in literature.This missing link may be a key to Pandora's box in understanding epidemiology of HEV infection in genotype 1 predominant region.
文摘Background:Mastitis caused by different pathogens including Streptococcus uberis(S.uberis)is responsible for huge economic losses to the dairy industry.In order to investigate the potential genetic and epigenetic regulatory mecha‑nisms of subclinical mastitis due to S.uberis,the DNA methylome(whole genome DNA methylation sequencing)and transcriptome(RNA sequencing)of milk somatic cells from cows with naturally occurring S.uberis subclinical mastitis and healthy control cows(n=3/group)were studied.Results:Globally,the DNA methylation levels of CpG sites were low in the promoters and first exons but high in inner exons and introns.The DNA methylation levels at the promoter,first exon and first intron regions were nega‑tively correlated with the expression level of genes at a whole‑genome‑wide scale.In general,DNA methylation level was lower in S.uberis‑positive group(SUG)than in the control group(CTG).A total of 174,342 differentially methylated cytosines(DMCs)(FDR<0.05)were identified between SUG and CTG,including 132,237,7412 and 34,693 DMCs in the context of CpG,CHG and CHH(H=A or T or C),respectively.Besides,101,612 methylation haplotype blocks(MHBs)were identified,including 451 MHBs that were significantly different(dMHB)between the two groups.A total of 2130 differentially expressed(DE)genes(1378 with up‑regulated and 752 with down‑regulated expression)were found in SUG.Integration of methylome and transcriptome data with MethGET program revealed 1623 genes with signifi‑cant changes in their methylation levels and/or gene expression changes(MetGDE genes,MethGET P‑value<0.001).Functional enrichment of genes harboring≥15 DMCs,DE genes and MetGDE genes suggest significant involvement of DNA methylation changes in the regulation of the host immune response to S.uberis infection,especially cytokine activities.Furthermore,discriminant correlation analysis with DIABLO method identified 26 candidate biomarkers,including 6 DE genes,15 CpG‑DMCs and 5 dMHBs that discriminated between SUG and CTG.Conclusion:The integration of methylome and transcriptome of milk somatic cells suggests the possible involve‑ment of DNA methylation changes in the regulation of the host immune response to subclinical mastitis due to S.uberis.The presented genetic and epigenetic biomarkers could contribute to the design of management strategies of subclinical mastitis and breeding for mastitis resistance.
基金the Ministero delle politiche agricole alimentari,forestali e del turismo(MIPAAF),Rome,Italy.Moreover,the study was conducted within the Agritech National Research Center and received funding from the European Union Next-GenerationEU(PIANO NAZIONALE DI RIPRESA E RESILIENZA(PNRR)-MISSIONE 4 COMPONENTE 2,INVESTIMENTO 1.4-D.D.103217/06/2022,CN00000022).
文摘Background Subclinical intramammary infection(IMI)represents a significant problem in maintaining dairy cows’health.Disease severity and extent depend on the interaction between the causative agent,environment,and host.To investigate the molecular mechanisms behind the host immune response,we used RNA-Seq for the milk somatic cells(SC)transcriptome profiling in healthy cows(n=9),and cows naturally affected by subclinical IMI from Proto-theca spp.(n=11)and Streptococcus agalactiae(S.agalactiae;n=11).Data Integration Analysis for Biomarker discov-ery using Latent Components(DIABLO)was used to integrate transcriptomic data and host phenotypic traits related to milk composition,SC composition,and udder health to identify hub variables for subclinical IMI detection.Results A total of 1,682 and 2,427 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified when comparing Prototheca spp.and S.agalactiae to healthy animals,respectively.Pathogen-specific pathway analyses evidenced that Proto-theca’s infection upregulated antigen processing and lymphocyte proliferation pathways while S.agalactiae induced a reduction of energy-related pathways like the tricarboxylic acid cycle,and carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.The integrative analysis of commonly shared DEGs between the two pathogens(n=681)referred to the core-mastitis response genes,and phenotypic data evidenced a strong covariation between those genes and the flow cytometry immune cells(r2=0.72),followed by the udder health(r2=0.64)and milk quality parameters(r2=0.64).Variables with r≥0.90 were used to build a network in which the top 20 hub variables were identified with the Cytoscape cyto-hubba plug-in.The genes in common between DIABLO and cytohubba(n=10)were submitted to a ROC analysis which showed they had excellent predictive performances in terms of discriminating healthy and mastitis-affected animals(sensitivity>0.89,specificity>0.81,accuracy>0.87,and precision>0.69).Among these genes,CIITA could play a key role in regulating the animals’response to subclinical IMI.Conclusions Despite some differences in the enriched pathways,the two mastitis-causing pathogens seemed to induce a shared host immune-transcriptomic response.The hub variables identified with the integrative approach might be included in screening and diagnostic tools for subclinical IMI detection.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81941024)Tianjin Major Public Health Science and Technology Project (21ZXGWSY00090)+2 种基金National Health Commission of China (SPSYYC 2020015)Food Science and Technology Foundation of Chinese Institute of FoodScience and Technology (2019-12)2014 and 2016 Chinese NutritionSociety (CNS) Nutrition Research Foundation -DSM Research Fund(2016-046, 2014-071 and 2016-023), China
文摘Background:Mushrooms are a good source of many nutrients which are potentially beneficial for chronic diseases.We speculated that due to its abundant nutrients edible mushrooms might have a beneficial effect on the prevention of subclinical thyroid dysfunction(SCTD).Therefore,we designed a large-scale cohort study to examine whether mushrooms consumption is a protective factor for SCTD in adults.Methods:This prospective cohort study investigated 6631 participants(mean age:(45.0±10.2)years;55.1%men).Edible mushrooms consumption was measured at baseline using a validated food frequency questionnaire.SCTD was defined as abnormal serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels and normal free thyroxine.Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the association of edible mushrooms consumption with incident SCTD.Results:During follow-up period,a total of 262 new cases of SCTD were identified,the incidence rate of subclinical hypothyroidism was 8.9/1000 person-years and subclinical hyperthyroidism was 7.2/1000 person-years.After adjusting potential confounding factors,the multivariable hazard ratios(95%confidence intervals)for subclinical hypothyroidism were 1.00(reference)for almost never,0.53(0.29,0.97)for 1-3 times/week and 0.30(0.10,0.87)for≥4 times/week(P for trend=0.02).It also showed edible mushrooms consumption was inversely associated with subclinical hypothyroidism in obese individuals but not non-obese individuals,the final hazard ratios(95%confidence intervals)were 0.14(0.03,0.73)(P for trend<0.01).Conclusions:This population-based prospective cohort study has firstly demonstrated that higher edible mushrooms consumption was significantly associated with lower incidence of subclinical hypothyroidism among general adult population,especially in obese individuals.
文摘AIM:To investigate the effect of Danzhijiangtang capsule(DJC) on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1) mRNA expression in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) subclinical vascular lesions.METHODS:Sixty-two patients with newly diagnosed T2DM subclinical vascular lesions were randomly divided into a control group and treatment group of 31 cases each.Oral antidiabetic therapy with routine western medicine was conducted in both groups,and the treatment group was additionally treated with DJCs.The treatment course for both groups was 12 wk.Before and after treatment,the total efficiency and traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) syndrome score were calculated.The fasting plasma glucose(FPG),2-h plasma glucose(2hPG),fasting insulin(FINS),insulin resistance index(IRI),hemoglobin(Hb)A1c,blood lipids,and hemorheology indices were determined.In addition,the levels of vascular endothelial growth factors including thrombomodulin(TM),von Willebrand factor(vWF),P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA were determined.RESULTS:After 12 wk of treatment,the TCM syndrome score was significantly decreased compared to before treatment in both groups.After treatment,FPG,2hPG,HbA1c,FINS,IRI,total cholesterol,triglycerides,low-density lipoprotein,high-density lipoprotein,whole blood low shear specific viscosity,plasma specific viscosity,TM,vWF,P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA were significantly improved compared to before treatment in both groups.After treatment,the total efficiency and TCM syndrome score in the treatment group were better than in the control group.FINS,IRI,whole blood high shear specific viscosity,plasma specific viscosity,TM,vWF,P-selectin and MCP-1 mRNA level in the treatment group were significantly reduced after treatment compared with control group.CONCLUSION:DJCs are efficacious in supplementing qi,nourishing yin and invigorating blood circulation,and upregulate MCP-1 mRNA expression in patients with T2DM subclinical vascular lesions.
文摘INTRODUCTION: Overt hypothyroidism in pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes, but the effects of subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia on pregnancy outcomes are still controversial. Subclinical hypothyroidism might be associated with preterm delivery, low Apgar score, fetal death and miscarriages and isolated hypothyroxinemia with preterm labor, high birth weight and neurocognitive deficits in children. Other studies show no association with any complications at all. In the present study we tried to estimate whether maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia are associated with complications during pregnancy in our population which represents the pregnant population of Western Greece. METHODS: In a total of 469 pregnant women, third trimester serum was assayed for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (free T4). Thyroid hypofunction was defined as 1) subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH levels above 3 mIU/L for the 3rd trimester and normal free T4 and 2) isolated hypothyroxinemia with TSH levels below 3 mIU/L for the 3rd trimester and free T4 below the 5th percentile. The results were associated with birth weight, week of labor, history of miscarriages and demographic characteristics. Patients with thyroid hypofunction were compared with euthyroid patients (TSH and free T4 between normal limits). The results were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and χ2 test. RESULTS: Subclinical hypothyroidism was documented in 10.9% and isolated hypothyroxinemia in 21.7% of pregnant women. Subclinical hypothyroidism was not associated with birth weight, week of labor, or history of miscarriages. On the contrary, hypothyroxinemia was associated with high birth weight (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In our study, we did not find a link between subclinical hypothyroidism and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Similarly, hypothyroxinemia was not associated with pregnancy complications. However, it was associated with higher birth weight. Our studies contribute to our understanding, whether or not subclinical hypothyroidism and isolated hypothyroxinemia are associated with pregnancy adverse outcomes and whether treatment and test for hypothyroidism should become routine during pregnancy.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFE0129900)Poultry Nutrition and Feed Technology Innovation Team Program of China Agricultural Universitythe Youth Elite Development Program(Grade A)of College of Animal Science and Technology,China Agricultural University.
文摘Background: Subclinical necrotic enteritis(SNE), a common intestinal disease of broiler caused by Clostridium perfringens, could reduce production performance of broilers by chronic intestinal damage and poor absorption of nutrients. Ellagic acid(EA) has been reported to present antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties on human and animals in many aspects. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect and mechanism of EA in relieving SNE in broilers induced by C. perfringens.Results: C. perfringens challenge decreased body weight(BW), average daily gain(ADG), jejunal villi height/crypt depth(V/C) ratio, the activity of catalase(CAT) and the mRNA expression of zonula occludens 1(ZO-1) in jejunal mucosa of broilers. While feed conversion ratios(FCR), jejunal crypt depth(CD), the activities of myeloperoxidase(MPO) and diamine oxidase(DAO), as well as the concentrations of interleukin 6(IL-6), C-reactive protein(CRP) and procalcitonin(PCT) in serum, the activities of inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS) and lysozyme(LZM), the concentration of malondialdehyde(MDA), and the mRNA expressions of claudin-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, TLR-4, TLR-2, NF-κB,JAK3, STAT6 and iNOS in jejunal mucosa of broilers were increased by C. perfringens challenge. Dietary EA supplement relieved these adverse effects, and heightened jejunal villi height(VH), the concentration of D-xylose in plasma, activity of superoxide dismutase(SOD), and the mRNA expression of occludin in jejunal mucosa of broilers.The alpha diversity of cecal microbiota indicated that dietary EA supplement increased observed species and Shannon index. C. perfringens challenge increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and decreased the relative abundance of Desulfobacterota in cecal microbiota. EA increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes in cecal microbiota. LEfSe analysis showed that C. perfringens challenge triggered the imbalance of cecal microbiota in broilers, dietary EA supplementation led to a small beneficial effect on microbiota, while the simultaneous effect of them seemed to stimulate the immune function of broilers by improving the microbiota balance.Conclusions: Dietary EA ameliorated C. perfringens-induced SNE in broilers via regulating jejunal inflammation signaling pathways TLR/NF-κB and JAK3/STAT6, relieving jejunal oxidative stress and balancing cecal microbiota to inhibit intestinal barrier damage, prevent systemic inflammatory response and improve nutrient absorption capacity,finally protect and enhance growth performance of broilers.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the diagnostic ability of topographic and tomographic indices with Pentacam and Sirius as well as biomechanical parameters with Corvis ST for the detection of clinical and subclinical forms of keratoconus(KCN).METHODS:In this prospective diagnostic test study,70 patients with clinical KCN,79 patients with abnormal findings in topography and tomography maps with no evidence on clinical examination(subclinical KCN),and 68 normal control subjects were enrolled.The accuracy of topographic,tomographic,and biomechanical parameters was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC)and cross-validation analysis.The Delong method was used for comparing AUCs.RESULTS:In distinguishing KCN from normal,all parameters showed statistically significant differences between the two groups(P<0.001).Indices with the perfect diagnostic ability(AUC≥0.999)were Sirius KCN vertex of back(KVb),Pentacam random forest index(PRFI),Pentacam index of height decentration(IHD),and Corvis integrated tomographic/biomechanical index(TBI).In distinguishing subclinical KCN from normal,Sirius symmetry index of back(SIb;AUC=0.908),Pentacam inferior-superior difference(IS)value(AUC=0.862),PRFI(AUC=0.847),and Corvis TBI(AUC=0.820)performed best.There were no significant differences between the highest AUCs within keratoconic groups(De Long,P>0.05).CONCLUSION:In clinical KCN,all topographic,tomographic,and biomechanical indices have acceptable outcomes in terms of sensitivity and specificity.However,in differentiating subclinical forms of KCN from normal corneas,curvature-based parameters(SIb and IS value)followed by integrated indices(PRFI and TBI)are the most powerful tools for early detection of KCN.
基金supported by the grants from National Key R&D Program of China [2016YFC1305600,2017YFC1310700,2016YFC0901200,2016YFC1304904]the National Natural Science Foundation of China [81561128019,81622011]+4 种基金the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Health and Family Planning [15GWZK0802]the Three-year Action Plan on Public Health [15GWZK0802]the ‘Gaofeng Gaoyuan Program for Clinical Scientists’ from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine [20161301,20161307]supported by the ‘Shanghai Outstanding Academic Leader Program’supported by the ‘Outstanding Young Talent Program’ from Shanghai Municipal Government
文摘Objective Ideal cardiovascular health(CVH) could predict a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the association between ideal CVH and subclinical atherosclerosis in a population cohort of Chinese adults aged ≥ 40 years. Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional analysis of 8,395 participants who had complete data at baseline and a prospective analysis of 4,879 participants who had complete data at 4.3 years of follow-up. Ideal CVH metrics were defined according to the American Heart Association. Subclinical atherosclerosis was evaluated by plaques in carotid arteries, carotid intima-media thickness(CIMT), brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV), and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio(UACR). Results Both the prevalence and incidence of atherosclerosis measures were found to be decreased with increasing numbers of ideal CVH metrics at baseline(all P values for trend < 0.01). The levels of CIMT and UACR at follow-up showed an inverse and significant association with the numbers of ideal CVH metrics at baseline(both P values for trend < 0.05) but a borderline significant association with baPWV(P for trend = 0.0505). Taking participants with 0-1 ideal metric as reference, we found that participants with 5-6 ideal metrics had significantly lower risks of developing carotid plaques(odds ratio, OR = 0.46; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.27-0.79), increased CIMT(OR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.42-0.84), and increased baPWV(OR = 0.57; 95% CI 0.34-0.97) after full adjustments. A significant interactive effect of age and CVH was detected on CIMT and baPWV progression(both P values for interaction < 0.05). Conclusion The numbers of ideal CVH metrics showed a significant and inverse association with the risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults, whereas its dose-response effect was attenuated in individuals aged ≥ 60 years and partially weakened in male participants.
基金Supported by Heilongjiang Province Applied Technology Research and Development Plan(GA15B201)。
文摘In order to study the correlation of different degrees of subclinical mastitis and cytokines,the changes of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),interleukin-6(IL-6),interleukin-8(IL-8)and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)in blood and milk and whether the changes of these indexes were caused by mastitis were analyzed.The 40 Holstein cows in lactation period were tested and grouped by somatic cell count(SCC)method in milk:Group C(SCC<5×10~5 cells·mL^(-1)),Group I(5×10~5 cells·mL^(-1)5×10~6 cells·mL^(-1)).The contents of IL-1β,IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αwere analyzed by radioimmunoassay.The results showed that the contents of IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αin the blood and milk of different degrees of subclinical mastitis increased with the severity of mastitis,and were higher than those in normal group.The contents of IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αin serum and whey of dairy cows affected by different degrees of subclinical mastitis were higher than those in normal group(Group C).The content of IL-1βincreased and decreased with the increase of inflammation,and it did not have the value of evaluating mastitis.In conclusion,the severities of cow subclinical mastitis and the contents of cytokines were positive correlations.These indexes could be used as the basis for judging mammary gland injury.
文摘BACKGROUND Adrenal incidentaloma(AI)has been frequently encountered in the clinical setting.It has been shown that primary aldosteronism(PA)or subclinical Cushing’s syndrome(SCS)are the representative causative diseases of AI.However,the coexistence of PA and SCS has been reportedly observed.Recently,we encountered a case of AI,in which PA and SCS coexisted,confirmed by histopathological examinations after a laparoscopic adrenalectomy.We believe that there were some clinical implications in the diagnosis of the present case.CASE SUMMARY A 58-year-old man presented with lower right abdominal pain with a blood pressure of 170/100 mmHg.A subsequent computed tomography scan revealed right ureterolithiasis,which was the cause of right abdominal pain,and right AI measuring 22 mm×25 mm.After the disappearance of right abdominal pain,subsequent endocrinological examinations were performed.Aldosterone-related evaluations,including adrenal venous sampling,revealed the presence of bilateral PA.In addition,several cortisol-related evaluations showed the presence of SCS on the right adrenal adenoma.A laparoscopic right adrenalectomy was then performed.The histopathological examination of the resected right adrenal revealed the presence of a cortisol-producing adenoma,while CYP11B2 immunoreactivity was absent in this adenoma.However,in the adjacent nonneoplastic adrenal,multiple CYP11B2-positive adrenocortical micronodules were detected,showing the presence of aldosterone-producing adrenocortical micronodules.CONCLUSION Careful clinical and pathological examination should be performed when a patient harboring AI presents with concomitant SCS and PA.
文摘Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is one of the major factors affecting the productivity of dairy cattle all over the world. This study established the burden of SCM and determined the potent antibacterial formulation for control of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) related SCM in selected dairy cattle farms in Kiboga district. A total of 124 dairy cattle from 12 farms were screened for SCM using California Mastitis Test (CMT) from Kiboga Town-Council, Kapeke and Lwamata sub-counties. The offending bacteria were cultured and the antibiogram of SA was carried out using antibacterial susceptibility by the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Additional qualitative data on the factors that predispose cows to SCM was obtained through questionnaires and observation of milking Practice. The prevalence of SCM in the three sub-counties was 87.9%. Over 70% of the dairy cattle screened for SCM had more than 2 udder quarters affected. The majority (90%) of SCM was caused by mixed bacterial infections: Coagulase negative staphylococci (64.4%) and SA (16.6%) being the most prevalent. All the farmers (100%) lacked knowledge on SCM, udder towels, teat dipping and drug cow therapy. Overall, 71.4% of SA isolated was multi-drug resistant. There was a high level of resistance against penicillin (100%), neomycin (85.7%) and tetracycline (71.4%). In contrast, all the above isolates were susceptible to Trimethoprim-Sulphamethazole. In conclusion, the high burden of SCM and emergence of multidrug resistant SA are one of the constraints to dairy production in Kiboga district. Therefore, sensitization of dairy farmers in Kiboga district on proper hygienic, appropriate milking techniques and dry cow therapy using potentiated sulfonamide intra-mammary preparations are highly recommended in SA associated SCM.
文摘Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism is characterized by normal circulating thyroid hormone levels with super-normal TSH concentrations in absence of clinical manifestations. In majority of subjects, an etiologic factor is often identified. Moreover, therapy with levothyroxine normalizes serum TSH concentration while maintaining normal thyroid hormone concentrations. However, the exact pathophysiology of these thyroid hormone alterations is not well defined. Objective: Major steps in synthesis i.e. iodine uptake and the release of thyroid hormones in response to SC TSH administration were assessed in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism. Methods: 10 men and 5 women with subclinical hypothyroidism, ages 42 - 76 years and 10 euthyroid men (39 - 70 years) participated. 24 hr 131Iodine thyroid uptake and serum T3, T4 and TSH concentrations were determined prior to and after SC administration of recombinant human TSH, 0.9 mg for two consecutive days. Comparisons were conducted for 24 hour uptake values as well as serum T3, T4 and TSH levels obtained prior to and after TSH administration. Results: In subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism 24 hour 131I thyroidal uptakes were normal (10% - 30%). However, the mean value was significantly lower, (p 3 and T4 concentrations in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism were not significantly different in comparison to normal subjects. Serum TSH concentrations were supernormal and therefore were significantly higher in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism in comparison to normal subjects and rose markedly in both groups following TSH administration with no significant difference among groups. Serum T4 and T3 rose significantly from PreTSH levels in both groups (p 131I Thyroid uptake is inhibited prior to as well as following SC TSH administration in comparison to normal subjects with maintenance of normal hormone release.
文摘The aim of this work was to compare the use of local intrauterine moist heat infusion to intrauterine antibiotics infusion, for treatment of subclinical endometritis which affects reproduction and milk production. 42 repeat breeder cows were divided into 4 groups, group 1 was the untreated control (=10 cows). Group 2 (=10 cows) was treated by 50 ml of Oxytetracycline 5% intrauterine for three successive weeks. Group 3 (=10 cows) intrauterine infusion with 30 ml saline adding to them 10 ml Gentamycin 10% and 10 ml penicillin and streptomycin for three successive weeks. Group 4 (=12 cows) intrauterine infusion with 50 ml sterile boiling water (≈100°C) was applied directly to the uterus for only one time. Leukogram was done before and after treatment, it showed leukocytosis and neutrophilia in all the study groups. After treatment for 36 hours and one week, there were no significant changes in the leukogram results of groups 1, 2 and 3. While in Group 4 showed decreasing in numbers of leukocytes (11.92 ± 0.75) and neutrophils (0.87 ± 0.16) to its normal limits after 36 hours and one-week post-treatment. Our new method gave the highest cumulative pregnancy rate 83.3% while other groups using antibiotics or antibiotics with saline gave lower pregnancy rate 40% and 50% respectively (P > 0.001). We named this new treatment method “Samia-treat;SAT”. SAT is a whole new and effective treatment for cases of repeat breeder which are caused by SCE in dairy cows;it caused increase in reproductive performance and cumulative pregnancy rate without over use of antibiotics.
文摘Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increasing of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality due to accelerated atherosclerosis. Several studies showed also the increasing of the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis, but there are little data from sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, subclinical carotid atherosclerosis and the ability of the Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation (SCORE) modified by European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) to predict the high CV risk in our patients. Patients and Method: We conducted a cross sectional study in Senegalese patients with RA. The RA was retained according to 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)-European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria. Patients with RA were assessed in a clinical research consultation. Results: We included 50 RA patients. The mean age was 44 years (+/- 12.37) and the sex-ratiowas 0.06. The frequency distribution of traditional cardiovascular risk factors was: hypertension (HT) (30%), diabetes-mellitus (6%), smoking (2%), no-exercise (22%), obesity (16%), metabolic syndrome (8%). Fifty-eight percent of patients were classified at low cardiovascular risk according to mSCORE. 51.7% of patients classified as moderate-risk according to mSCORE, were reclassified as high cardiovascular risk according to carotid ultrasound evaluation (gold-standard). The sensitivity of the mSCORE in the prediction of high CV risk was low at 20%. In the present study, the prevalence of carotid subclinical atherosclerosis was 20%. Age (>45 years) and HT were correlated to subclinical atherosclerosis. Conclusion: In the present study, the prevalence of atherosclerosis in RA patients was higher than expected frequency in comparison with the prevalence in Senegalese general population. We showed that CV risk was underestimated by mSCORE which had a low sensitivity in the prediction of high risk. We showed also the importance of carotid ultrasound for an appropriate stratification of the risk.
基金Supported by Funding(RCB22)from the Doctoral Research Foundation of Northeast Agricultural University(2012)the Postdoctoral Fund of Heilongjiang Province(LBH-Z11239)
文摘Subclinical endometritis is a physiological inflammation that serves to clear persistent contaminants from the uterus. To investigate the alteration of antioxidant, such as vitamin E(VE) and vitamin C(VC), total oxidant capacity(TOC) and nitric oxide(NO) in cows with normal and subclinical endometritis(SCE), we examined the concentrations of NO, VC and VE, TOC and polymorphonuclear neutrophils(PMN) percentage in uterine secretion. The cows were divided into two groups, normal(n=20) and subclinical endometritis(SCE, n=60), based on endometrial cytology(presence of PMN≥5%). Uterine secretion and blood were collected as described previously. Griess reaction was used to determine the concentration of NO. The concentrations of TOC, VC and VE were detected by a commercially available assay kit. The results showed that the concentrations of NO, TOC and PMN percentage were significantly higher(P<0.01, P<0.05, and P<0.01, respectively) in uterine secretion with SCE compared to those from normal; however, the levels of VC and VE were significantly lesser(P<0.01). In conclusion, the concentrations of NO, TOC, VC, VE and PMN percentage differed between normal and SCE cows. Meanwhile, the relationship between the concentration of NO and PMN percentage from uterine secretion in cows with subclinical endometritis were positively correlated. Consequently, these alterations in NO, TOC, VC, VE levels and PMN percentage contributed to as a diagnostic index of the uterine inflammation, with the aim to increase the reproduction of the cows and the decrease economic losses.
基金supported by the grants from the National Key R&D Program of China[2017YFC1310700,2016YFC1305600,2016YFC0901200,2016YFC1305202,2016YFC1304904,2018YFC1311800,2018YFC1311705]the National Natural Science Foundation of China[81870560,81561128019,81621061,81700764,81941017,81770842]+9 种基金the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences[2018PT32017,2019PT330006]the Shanghai Municipal Government[18411951800]the Shanghai Shenkang Hospital Development Center[SHDC12019101]Shanghai Municipal Commission of Health and Family Planning[20174Y0014]National Major Scientific and Technological Special Project for“Significant New Drugs Development”[2017ZX09304007]Shanghai Rising-Star Program[21QA1408100]the Scientific and Technological Committee of Shanghai[19411964200]Innovative research team of high-level local universities in Shanghaithe Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine[DLY201801,20161301,20161307]the Ruijin Hospital[2018CR002]。
文摘Objective The association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio(NLR)with subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases has been less investigated.We sought to examine the association between NLR and new-onset subclinical macrovascular and microvascular abnormalities in the Chinese population.Methods From a community cohort,we included 6,430 adults aged≥40 years without subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases at baseline.We measured subclinical macrovascular and microvascular abnormalities separately using the ankle-brachial index(ABI),brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity(baPWV),and albuminuria.Results During a mean follow-up of 4.3 years,110 participants developed incident abnormal ABI,746 participants developed incident elevated baPWV,and 503 participants developed incident albuminuria.Poisson regression analysis indicated that NLR was significantly associated with an increased risk of newonset abnormal ABI,elevated baPWV,and albuminuria.Compared to overweight/obese participants,we found a much stronger association between NLR and subclinical vascular abnormalities in participants with normal weight.Furthermore,we found an interaction between the NLR and body mass index(BMI)on the risk of new-onset abnormal ABI(P for interaction:0.01).Conclusion NLR was associated with subclinical macrovascular and microvascular diseases in the Chinese population.Furthermore,in participants with normal weight,the association between NLR and subclinical vascular abnormalities was much stronger.
文摘Background: There is no effective treatment for children with subclinical hypothyroidism. The natural course of subclinical hypothyroidism shows a normalization rate of 41% for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Objective;The thyroid needs (among others) iron, iodine, and vitamin A for a proper thyroid hormone synthesis. We hypothesize that with a dietary change, more children can normalize their TSH. Design: In this case-control study, 54 children aged 1 - 14 years with subclinical hypothyroidism were divided into a diet group and a control group. The diet consisted of green vegetables, beef, full fat milk, and butter. The diet was followed for at least 3 months. A total of 27 patients comprised the diet group and 27 the control group. TSH, Free T4 (FT4), and Body Mass Index (BMI) were evaluated during the follow up. Results: By following this diet, TSH levels decreased significantly compared to when following the natural course. FT4 levels did not change during the follow up. The diet group realized a change of normalizing their TSH with a RR 2.8 (95% CI 1.45 - 5.61). There were no changes in BMI after following the diet. Conclusions: Even though our study population was small, we observed the association of a dietary change and normalization of TSH in children with subclinical hypothyroidism, without adverse effects.
文摘Introduction: Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality causing mental handicap in humans. Children with DS have significant medical problems and developmental delay which are further impaired by hypothyroidism. Those clinical features are potentially improved by using thyroxine replacement therapy. Objectives: To examine the evidence of effectiveness (motor & mental development) and safety of thyroxine supplementation in the treatment of SH and CH in children with DS. Methods: Several medical data bases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, Clinical Trials Gov, Essential Evidence and Google) were searched until 20 October, 2011, for randomized control trials (RCTs) that had examined thyroxine’s effectiveness and safety in the treatment of SH or CH in children with DS. Results: There were two high quality RCTs that examined thyroxine in the treatment of CH in children with DS, and no RCTs were found to have examined the effectiveness of thyroxine for SH in children with DS. Conclusion: The RCT which met our inclusion criteria provides the reliable evidence in recommending thyroxine for the treatment of CH in children with DS which is similar to the guidelines for general population. The absence of RCTs examining the treatment of SH in Children with DS indicates the need to conduct such trials.
文摘AIM: To determine the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism(SCH) and the metabolic syndrome(MS). METHODS: We performed a systematic search of databases [MEDLINE(July 1950 to July 2012), EMBASE(July 1966 to July 2012)] and the references of identified studies. Completely published cross-sectional studies of a general population involving SCH and the MS were included. The pooled odds ratio and weighted mean difference(WMD) for the outcomes were calculated using random-effects models.RESULTS: Six cross-sectional studies with 19546 participants were included. In total, 398 of 1324 participants(30.06%) in the SCH group had the MS compared with 4975 of 18222 participants(27.30%) in the euthyroid group [OR = 1.20; 95%CI: 1.05-1.36; P = 0.004; χ2 = 2.53(P = 0.773); I2 = 0%]. Further analysis of the components of the MS showed that SCH was associatedwith increased body mass index(WMD, 0.32 kg/m; 95%CI: 0.04-0.61; P = 0.026), systolic blood pressure(WMD, 2.62 mmH g; 95%CI: 1.35-3.89; P < 0.001) and triglyceride(WMD, 0.25 mmol/L; 95%CI: 0.23-0.28; P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: Based on the cross-sectional data, SCH may be associated with an increased risk of the MS, which could be attributed to the increased risk of metabolic components.
