Immune regulation of the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis involved in ischemic stroke

Local ischemia often causes a series of inflammatory reactions when both brain immune cells and the peripheral immune response are activated.In the human body,the gut and lung are regarded as the key reactional targets that are initiated by brain ischemic attacks.Mucosal microorganisms play an important role in immune regulation and metabolism and affect blood-brain barrier permeability.In addition to the relationship between peripheral organs and central areas and the intestine and lung also interact among each other.Here,we review the molecular and cellular immune mechanisms involved in the pathways of inflammation across the gut-brain axis and lung-brain axis.We found that abnormal intestinal flora,the intestinal microenvironment,lung infection,chronic diseases,and mechanical ventilation can worsen the outcome of ischemic stroke.This review also introduces the influence of the brain on the gut and lungs after stroke,highlighting the bidirectional feedback effect among the gut,lungs,and brain.

Enteric neuropathy in diabetes:Implications for gastrointestinal function

Diabetes,commonly known for its metabolic effects,also critically affects the enteric nervous system(ENS),which is essential in regulating gastrointestinal(GI)motility,secretion,and absorption.The development of diabetes-induced enteric neuropathy can lead to various GI dysfunctions,such as gastroparesis and irregular bowel habits,primarily due to disruptions in the function of neuronal and glial cells within the ENS,as well as oxidative stress and inflammation.This editorial explores the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of enteric neuropathy in diabetic patients.Additionally,it discusses the latest advances in diagnostic approaches,emphasizing the need for early detection and intervention to mitigate GI complications in diabetic individuals.The editorial also reviews current and emerging therapeutic strategies,focusing on pharmacological treatments,dietary management,and potential neuromodulatory interventions.Ultimately,this editorial highlights the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach in managing enteric neuropathy in diabetes,aiming to enhance patient quality of life and address a frequently overlooked complication of this widespread disease.

Two intestinal microbiota-derived metabolites, deoxycholic acid and butyrate, synergize to enhance host defense peptide synthesis and alleviate necrotic enteritis

Background Necrotic enteritis(NE)is a major enteric disease in poultry,yet effective mitigation strategies remain elusive.Deoxycholic acid(DCA)and butyrate,two major metabolites derived from the intestinal microbiota,have independently been shown to induce host defense peptide(HDP)synthesis.However,the potential synergy between these two compounds remains unexplored.Methods To investigate the possible synergistic effect between DCA and butyrate in regulating HDP synthesis and barrier function,we treated chicken HD11 macrophage cells and jejunal explants with DCA and sodium butyrate(NaB),either individually or in combination,for 24 h.Subsequently,we performed RNA isolation and reverse transcrip-tion-quantitative PCR to analyze HDP genes as well as the major genes associated with barrier function.To further determine the synergy between DCA and NaB in enhancing NE resistance,we conducted two independent trials with Cobb broiler chicks.In each trial,the diet was supplemented with DCA or NaB on the day-of-hatch,followed by NE induction through sequential challenges with Eimeria maxima and Clostridium perfringens on d 10 and 14,respectively.We recorded animal mortality after infection and assessed intestinal lesions on d 17.The impact of DCA and NaB on the microbiota in the ileum and cecum was evaluated through bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing.Results We found that the combination of DCA and NaB synergistically induced multiple HDP genes in both chicken HD11 cells and jejunal explants.Additionally,the gene for claudin-1,a major tight junction protein,also exhibited synergistic induction in response to DCA and NaB.Furthermore,dietary supplementation with a combination of 0.75 g/kg DCA and 1 g/kg NaB led to a significant improvement in animal survival and a reduction in intestinal lesions compared to either compound alone in a chicken model of NE.Notably,the cecal microbiota of NE-infected chickens showed a marked decrease in SCFA-producing bacteria such as Bacteroides,Faecalibacterium,and Cuneatibacter,with lactobacilli becoming the most dominant species.However,supplementation with DCA and NaB largely restored the intestinal microbiota to healthy levels.Conclusions DCA synergizes with NaB to induce HDP and claudin-1 expression and enhance NE resistance,with potential for further development as cost-effective antibiotic alternatives.

Time trends and outcomes of gastrostomy placement in a Swedish national cohort over two decades

BACKGROUND Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy(PEG)and laparoscopically inserted gastrostomy have become the gold standard for adult patients and children,respectively,requiring long-term enteral nutrition support.Procedure-related mortality is a rare event,often reported to be zero in smaller studies.National data on 30-d mortality and long-term survival rates after gastrostomy placement are scarce in the literature.AIM To study the use of gastrostomies in Sweden from 1998-2019 and to analyze procedure-related mortality and short-term(<30 d)and long-term survival.METHODS In this retrospective,population-based cohort study,individuals that had received a gastrostomy between 1998-2019 in Sweden were included.Individuals were identified in the Swedish National Patient Register,and survival analysis was possible by cross-referencing the Swedish Death Register.The cohort was divided into three age groups:Children(0-18 years);adults(19-64 years);and elderly(≥65 years).Kaplan-Meier with log-rank test and Cox regression were used for survival analysis.RESULTS In total 48682 individuals(52%males,average age 60.9±25.3 years)were identified.The cohort consisted of 12.0%children,29.5%adults,and 58.5%elderly.An increased use of gastrostomies was observed during the study period,from 13.7/100000 to 22.3/100000 individuals(P<0.001).The use of PEG more than doubled(about 800 to 1800/year),with a corresponding decrease in open gastrostomy(about 700 to 340/year).Laparoscopic gastrostomy increased more than ten-fold(about 20 to 240/year).Overall,PEG,open gastrostomy,and laparoscopic gastrostomy constituted 70.0%(n=34060),23.3%(n=11336),and 4.9%(n=2404),respectively.Procedure-related mortality was 0.1%(n=44)overall(PEG:0.05%,open:0.24%,laparoscopic:0.04%).The overall 30-d mortality rate was 10.0%(PEG:9.8%,open:12.4%,laparoscopic:1.7%)and decreased from 11.6%in 1998-2009 vs 8.5%in 2010-2019(P<0.001).One-year and ten-year survival rates for children,adults,and elderly were 93.7%,67.5%,and 42.1%and 79.9%,39.2%,and 6.8%,respectively.The most common causes of death were malignancies and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.CONCLUSION The annual use of gastrostomies in Sweden increased during the study period,with a shift towards more minimally invasive procedures.Although procedure-related death was rare,the overall 30-d mortality rate was high(10%).To overcome this,we believe that patient selection should be improved.

Dietary Macleaya cordata extract supplementation improves the growth performance and gut health of broiler chickens with necrotic enteritis

Background The poultry industry needs effective antibiotic alternatives to control outbreaks of necrotic enteritis(NE)caused by Clostridium perfringens.Methods The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Macleaya cordata extract(MCE)on the immune function and gut microbiota of broilers with NE.A total of 2881-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to a 2×2 factorial arrangement with two concentrations of dietary MCE supplementation(0 or 350 mg/kg of diet)and two disease challenge statuses(control or NE).Results The results revealed that NE significantly increased the feed conversion rate(FCR),mortality,intestinal lesion score,the levels of IL-1β,IL-17 and IFN-γ/IL-4 in serum and IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa,m RNA levels of TLR2,IFN-γand p Ig R in the jejunum,and Clostridium perfringens concentrations in the cecum.NE significantly decreased the body weight(BW),body weight gain(BWG),jejunal villus height,V/C,m RNA level of AMPK-α1 in jejunum,IL-4 level in the jejunal mucosa and lactic acid bacteria abundance in the cecum.MCE significantly increased BW,BWG,jejunal villus height,V/C,m RNA levels of occludin,ZO-1 and AMPK-α1 in the jejunum,the levels of Ig A and Ig G in serum and IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa and m RNA levels of NF-κB,IL-10 and MHC-II in the jejunum.Additionally,MCE significantly decreased the FCR,mortality,intestinal lesion score,jejunal crypt depth,the levels of IFN-γand IL-17 in serum and IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa,Clostridium perfringens concentrations in the cecum,and m RNA levels of IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunum.Moreover,NE significantly increased the abundance of bacteria that are associated with inflammation,obesity and depression(Alistipes,Barnesiella,Intestinimonas,RF39 and UCG-005)and significantly decreased the abundance of short-chain fatty acid(SCFA)-producing bacteria(Anaerotruncus,Butyricicoccus and Bacteroides)in the cecum.MCE significantly increased the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria(Streptococcus,Ruminococcus_torques_group and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group)and significantly reduced the abundance of bacteria that are associated with inflammation and obesity(Alistipes,Barnesiella and UCG-010)in the cecum.In the cecum of broilers with NE,the relative abundance of Barnesiella and Alistipes was higher and that of Lachnoclostridium and Shuttleworthia was lower.Interestingly,these trends were reversed by the addition of MCE to the diet.Spearman correlation analysis showed that Barnesiella and Alistipes were associated with enhanced intestinal inflammation and inhibited growth performance,whereas Lachnoclostridium and Shuttleworthia were associated with anti-inflammatory effects.Conclusions MCE ameliorated the loss of growth performance in broiler chickens with NE,probably by regulating the intestinal barrier,immune function,and gut microbiota.

Calcium/calcimimetic via calcium-sensing receptor ameliorates cholera toxin-induced secretory diarrhea in mice

BACKGROUND Enterotoxins produce diarrhea through direct epithelial action and indirectly by activating the enteric nervous system.Calcium-sensing receptor(CaSR)inhibits both actions.The latter has been well documented in vitro but not in vivo.The hypothesis to be tested was that activating CaSR inhibits diarrhea in vivo.AIM To determine whether CaSR agonists ameliorate secretory diarrhea evoked by cholera toxin(CTX)in mice.METHODS CTX was given orally to C57BL/6 mice to induce diarrhea.Calcium and calci-mimetic R568 were used to activate CaSR.To maximize their local intestinal actions,calcium was administered luminally via oral rehydration solution(ORS),whereas R568 was applied serosally using an intraperitoneal route.To verify that their actions resulted from the intestine,effects were also examined on Cre-lox intestine-specific CaSR knockouts.Diarrhea outcome was measured biochemically by monitoring changes in fecal Cl-or clinically by assessing stool consistency and weight loss.RESULTS CTX induced secretory diarrhea,as evidenced by increases in fecal Cl-,stool consistency,and weight loss following CTX exposure,but did not alter CaSR,neither in content nor in function.Accordingly,calcium and R568 were each able to ameliorate diarrhea when applied to diseased intestines.Intestinal CaSR involvement is suggested by gene knockout experiments where the anti-diarrheal actions of R568 were lost in intestinal epithelial CaSR knockouts(villinCre/Casrflox/flox)and neuronal CaSR knockouts(nestinCre/Casrflox/flox).CONCLUSION Treatment of acute secretory diarrheas remains a global challenge.Despite advances in diarrhea research,few have been made in the realm of diarrhea therapeutics.ORS therapy has remained the standard of care,although it does not halt the losses of intestinal fluid and ions caused by pathogens.There is no cost-effective therapeutic for diarrhea.This and other studies suggest that adding calcium to ORS or using calcimimetics to activate intestinal CaSR might represent a novel approach for treating secretory diarrheal diseases.

Porcine enteric alphacoronavirus infection increases lipid droplet accumulation to facilitate the virus replication

Coronaviruses are widely transmissible between humans and animals, causing diseases of varying severity. Porcine enteric alphacoronavirus(PEAV) is a newly-discovered pathogenic porcine enteric coronavirus in recent years, which causes watery diarrhea in newborn piglets. The host inflammatory responses to PEAV and its metabolic regulation mechanisms remain unclear, and no antiviral studies have been reported. Therefore, we investigated the pathogenic mechanism and antiviral drugs of PEAV. The transcriptomic analysis of PEAV-infected host cells revealed that PEAV could upregulate lipid metabolism pathways. In lipid metabolism, steady-state energy processes, which can be mediated by lipid droplets(LDs), are the main functions of organelles. LDs are also important in viral infection and inflammation. In infected cells, PEAV increased LD accumulation, upregulated NF-κB signaling, promoted the production of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-8, and induced cell death. Inhibiting LD accumulation with a DGAT-1 inhibitor significantly inhibited PEAV replication, downregulated the NF-κB signaling pathway, reduced the production of IL-1β and IL-8, and inhibited cell death. The NF-κB signaling pathway inhibitor BAY11-7082 significantly inhibited LD accumulation and PEAV replication. Metformin hydrochloride also exerted anti-PEAV effects and significantly inhibited LD accumulation, downregulated the NF-κB signaling pathway, reduced the production of IL-1β and IL-8, and inhibited cell death. LD accumulation in the lipid metabolism pathway therefore plays an important role in the replication and pathogenesis of PEAV, and metformin hydrochloride inhibits LD accumulation and the inflammatory response to exert anti-PEAV activity and reducing pathological injury. These findings contribute new targets for developing treatments for PEAV infections.

Risk Factors of Enternal Nutrition Intolerance in Septic Patients:A Case-control Study

Objective:This study aimed to investigate the incidence of enteral nutrition intolerance(ENI)in patients with sepsis and explore potential risk factors.Methods:A case-control study was conducted in patients with sepsis who were receiving enteral nutrition(EN)at a tertiary hospital in China.The included patients were divided into the ENI group and the non-ENI group.Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for ENI.Results:A total of 859 patients were included in the study.Among them,288(33.53%)patients experienced symptoms of ENI,including diarrhea,vomiting,bloating,and gastric retention.Logistic regression analysis revealed that the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation H(APACHE H)score,thoracocentesis,and usage of cardiotonic drugs(namely,inotropes)were independent predictors of the ENI.Conclusion:The incidence of ENI is relatively high in patients with sepsis,especially in those who have higher APACHE H scores,have undergone thoracocentesis,and have received inotropes.

Intestinal microecological transplantation for a patient with chronic radiation enteritis:A case report

BACKGROUND The gut microbiota is strongly associated with radiation-induced gut damage.This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of intestinal microecological transplantation for treating patients with chronic radiation enteritis.CASE SUMMARY A 64-year-old female with cervical cancer developed abdominal pain,diarrhea,and blood in the stool 1 year after radiotherapy.An electronic colonoscopy was performed to diagnose chronic radiation enteritis.Two courses of intestinal microecological transplantation and full-length 16S rRNA microbiological analysis were performed.The patient experienced short-and long-term relief from symptoms without adverse effects.Whole 16S rRNA sequencing revealed significant differences in the intestinal flora’s composition between patient and healthy donors.Pathogenic bacteria,such as Escherichia fergusonii and Romboutsia timonensis,were more in the patient.Beneficial bacteria such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii,Fusicatenibacter saccharivorans,Ruminococcus bromii,and Bifidobacterium longum were more in the healthy donors.Intestinal microbiota transplantation resulted in a significant change in the patient's intestinal flora composition.The composition converged with the donor's flora,with an increase in core beneficial intestinal bacteria,such as Eubacterium rectale,and a decrease in pathogenic bacteria.Changes in the intestinal flora corresponded with the patients'alleviating clinical symptoms.CONCLUSION Intestinal microecological transplantation is an effective treatment for relieving the clinical symptoms of chronic radiation enteritis by altering the composition of the intestinal flora.This study provides a new approach for treating patients with chronic radiation enteritis.

Relationship between nutritional therapy and beneficial bacteria ratio in severe disease

Objective:To evaluate relationship between changes in the beneficial bacteria in intensive care unit(ICU)patients and nutritional therapy type.Methods:Ten patients aged≥18 years admitted to the ICU between January and December 2020,were included.Good enteral nutrition was defined as early achievement of target calorie intake through enteral feeding.The ratio of beneficial bacteria at the first and second bowel movements after each patient’s admission was calculated and the patients were classified into the increase or decrease group.Among all patients,five each were in the increase and decrease groups.We investigated patient background,changes in sequential organ failure assessment(SOFA)and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation(APACHE)Ⅱscores,nutritional doses or methods,and clinical outcomes.Results:No relationship was found between changes in the ratio of beneficial bacteria and changes in SOFA/APACHEⅡscores at the time of admission.The rate of good enteral nutrition was significantly higher in the increase group than in the decrease group(4/5 vs.0/5,P=0.01).Conclusions:An increase in beneficial bacteria may be significantly related to the early establishment of enteral nutrition.In the future,accumulating cases may make it possible to establish a new nutritional strategy for critically ill patients from an intestinal microbiota perspective.

Early selective enteral feeding in treatment of acute pancreatitis: A case report

BACKGROUND Early initiation of enteral feeding is recognized to play a crucial role in improving the outcomes of treatment of acute pancreatitis.However,the method of adminis-tration of enteral nutrition remains debatable.We present the experience of treating a patient with moderate-severe acute pancreatitis,at high risk of progressing to a severe or fatal condition,using a novel method of selective feeding with duodenal isolation.CASE SUMMARY A 27-year-old female patient presented to the emergency unit of the hospital with a typical manifestation of acute pancreatitis.Despite a conventional treatment,the patient’s condition deteriorated by day 2 of hospitalization.Using an endoscopic approach,a novel catheter PandiCathffwas placed to the duodenum of the patient,isolating its segment between the duodenal bulb and the ligament of Treitz.In the isolated area created,a negative pressure was applied,followed by introduction of early selective enteral feeding.The patient’s condition subsequently improved in a rapid manner,and no complications often associated with moderate-to-severe acute pancreatitis developed.CONCLUSION Within 48 h of starting treatment with the novel method,it can prevent the development of multiple organ failure and,when combined with minimally invasive drainage methods,help prevent infection.

Productivity of Commercial Feedlot Beef Production Significantly Improved by Asparagopsis Bioactives Stabilized in Canola Oil

Research using open-circuit respiration chambers has established that Asparagopsis bioactive compounds stabilized in canola oil (Asp-Oil), delivering a range of inclusion between 34 - 51 mg bromoform (CHBr3)/kg dry matter intake (DMI), inhibits methane (CH4) emissions > 98% in feedlot cattle. In this study, Asp-Oil was fed at 35 mg CHBr3/kg DMI in the feedlot finisher diet under highly replicated and commercially relevant conditions, and adequately powered to confirm differences as low as 3.3% in feed conversion efficiency (FCE). The study also evaluated the effect of Asp-Oil on CH4 production (g/day), carcass and meat-eating qualities, animal health, and food safety. The experiment consisted of 300 Angus-Shorthorn (Bos taurus) steers in 30 pens of 10 and fed a barley-based ration supplemented with canola oil (Control, n = 15), or Asp-Oil (n = 15) for total 81-d, inclusive of 21-d transition to full Asp-Oil and grain inclusion in the finisher ration. Reduction of CH4 was measured using GreenFeed Emissions Monitors (GEM) in a subset of 2 pens in both Control and Asp-Oil. However, 67% of CH4 measurements were recorded below the GEM’s limit of detection. An inhibition range of 58% - 98% was demonstrated by collectively using GEM and preliminary respiration chamber measurements. Asp-Oil improved FCE 7.4% in the finisher diet, and 5.6% across transition and finisher periods. During the transition steps the steers had not yet received their full allocations of grain and Asp-Oil which is responsible for the lower FCE benefits. A 4.1% lower DMI in the finisher period contributed to benefits in FCE with no effect on daily weight gains. Cost of feed and weight gain were reduced $0.35/head/day and $0.23/kg, respectively, in steers receiving Asp-Oil. Residues of Asparagopsis CHBr3 were not detected in any sample and only trace iodide and bromide were detected in livers and kidneys of both Control and Asp-Oil steers at levels safe for human consumption. Steers demonstrated normal rumen development typical of feedlot diets. This study confirms that Asp-Oil safely induces significant productivity benefits and CH4 reductions in feedlot beef production. Commercial adoption of Asparagopsis can benefit feedlot beef production and reduces the climate change contribution of livestock production.

Prediction model establishment and validation for enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization in patients with acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND Acute pancreatitis(AP)is a disease caused by abnormal activation of pancreatic enzymes and can lead to self-digestion of pancreatic tissues and dysfunction of other organs.Enteral nutrition plays a vital role in the treatment of AP because it can meet the nutritional needs of patients,promote the recovery of intestinal function,and maintain the barrier and immune functions of the intestine.However,the risk of aspiration during enteral nutrition is high;once aspiration occurs,it may cause serious complications,such as aspiration pneumonia,and suffocation,posing a threat to the patient’s life.This study aims to establish and validate a prediction model for enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization in patients with AP.AIM To establish and validate a predictive model for enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization in patients with AP.METHODS A retrospective review was conducted on 200 patients with AP admitted to Chengdu Shangjin Nanfu Hospital,West China Hospital of Sichuan University from January 2020 to February 2024.Clinical data were collected from the electronic medical record system.Patients were randomly divided into a validation group(n=40)and a modeling group(n=160)in a 1:4 ratio,matched with 200 patients from the same time period.The modeling group was further categorized into an aspiration group(n=25)and a non-aspiration group(n=175)based on the occurrence of enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization.Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors influencing enteral nutrition aspiration in patients with AP during hospitalization.A prediction model for enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization was constructed,and calibration curves were used for validation.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to evaluate the predictive value of the model.RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in general data between the validation and modeling groups(P>0.05).The comparison of age,gender,body mass index,smoking history,hypertension history,and diabetes history showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups(P>0.05).However,patient position,consciousness status,nutritional risk,Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation(APACHE-II)score,and length of nasogastric tube placement showed statistically significant differences(P<0.05)between the two groups.Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that patient position,consciousness status,nutritional risk,APACHE-II score,and length of nasogastric tube placement were independent factors influencing enteral nutrition aspiration in patients with AP during hospitalization(P<0.05).These factors were incorporated into the prediction model,which showed good consistency between the predicted and actual risks,as indicated by calibration curves with slopes close to 1 in the training and validation sets.Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed an area under the curve(AUC)of 0.926(95%CI:0.8889-0.9675)in the training set.The optimal cutoff value is 0.73,with a sensitivity of 88.4 and specificity of 85.2.In the validation set,the AUC of the model for predicting enteral nutrition aspiration in patients with AP patients during hospitalization was 0.902,with a standard error of 0.040(95%CI:0.8284-0.9858),and the best cutoff value was 0.73,with a sensitivity of 91.9 and specificity of 81.8.CONCLUSION A prediction model for enteral nutrition aspiration during hospitalization in patients with AP was established and demonstrated high predictive value.Further clinical application of the model is warranted.

New application of intestinal obstruction catheter in enterocutaneous fistula:A case report

BACKGROUND Enterocutaneous fistula(ECF)is an abnormal connection between the gastrointestinal tract and the skin.ECF can lead to massive body fluid loss,hypercatabolism,and malnutrition.Therefore,nutritional support plays a crucial role in managing ECFs and promoting the healing of fistulas.For nutritional support,enteral nutrition(EN)is the preferred method when gastrointestinal function is recovering.Currently,various EN approaches have been applied for different anatomical positions of the ECF.However,the effectiveness of administering EN support for treating lower ECFs still needs further exploration and improvement.CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 46-year-old male who underwent gastrointestinal stromal tumour resection.Six days after the surgery,the patient presented with fever,fatigue,severe upper abdominal pain,and septic shock.Subsequently,lower ECFs were diagnosed through laboratory and imaging examinations.In addition to symptomatic treatment for homeostasis,total parenteral nutrition support was administered in the first 72 h due to dysfunction of the intestine.After that,we gradually provided EN support through the intestinal obstruction catheter in consideration of the specific anatomic position of the fistula instead of using the nasal jejunal tube.Ultimately,the patient could receive optimal EN support via the catheter,and no complications were found during the treatment.CONCLUSION Nutritional support is a crucial element in ECF management,and intestinal obstruction catheters could be used for early EN administration.

Potential pharmacological mechanisms of digallate in the treatment of enteritis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

Background:In order to investigate the possible pharmacological mechanism of digallate in Galla Chinensis for treating enteritis,providing reference for the search and exploration of effective drugs for treating enteritis.Method:Traditional Chinese Medicines Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform,PharmMapper,DisGeNET,DrugBank,and GeneCards databases were used to obtain drug and disease-related target information.Gene ontology functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment were performed,and the main therapeutic pathways and targets were identified by combining protein-protein interaction networks and cytoHubba plug-in.Molecular docking was used to validate the results.Result:297 drug related targets,2436 disease related targets,and 66 target points related to digallate were predicted to be associated with enteritis.10 related signal pathways and 10 key genes were identified.Conclusion:Digallate may be utilized to treat enteritis by acting on similar pathways,such those related to pathways in cancer,lipid and atherosclerosis,proteoglycans in cancer,Rap1 signaling pathway,PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and other targets such as IGF1,EGFR,SRC,IGF1R,PPARG.

Prevalence of Enteric Pathogens Associated with Infections among Table Egg Consumers in Some Primary Health Establishments in the Center Region of Cameroon

Method: In Cameroon limited data are available regarding the prevalence of enteric bacteria associated with table egg consuming infections. As such, a situational-based study was performed in patients with complains of stomach disorders after egg consumption. Data related to sociodemographic characteristics and other factors were collected using a structured based questionnaire. Stool culture of utmost importance in stomach disorders patients and serum were collected for typhoid serological test. Results: A total of 207 participants took part in the survey, Results indicated nontyphoidal Salmonella infections were highest in the 3 areas of study with Mfoundi (73.44%) having the highest level of infection compared to other bacterial infection. other enteric bacteria associated to this infection were E. coli serotype 157, Aeromonas, Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter cloaca and typhi salmonella. Meanwhile salmonelosis caused by typhic salmonella had highest prevalence in the Lekie Division (13.11%) as a result of poor hygienic practices associated with the conservation and preparation of eggs, Stool culture was observed to detect more positive cases in the diagnosis of typhoid fever than Widal test, but with no statistically significant (p > 0.05) difference between the stool culture and Widal test in the 3 areas of study. Conclusion: this study revealed that egg consumers are pruned to enteric bacterial and salmonella infections depending on how and where egg is consumed.

How Does E-Commerce Policy Affect Consumption Disparities of Rural Households?-Evidence from China

In the context of China’s ongoing efforts to promote countryside revitalization and facilitate domestic economic circulation,it is of great significance to reduce the consumption disparity among rural households and unleash the consumption potential in the countryside.Based on data from China Family Panel Studies,this paper adopts a staggered difference-in-differences method to assess the impact of the e-commerce to enter rural areas on the consumption disparity among rural households.Findings:the comprehensive demonstration work of promoting e-commerce to enter rural areas has reduced the consumption disparity among rural households through the following mechanisms.Firstly,this policy initiative has mitigated the consumption-inhibiting effect on rural household consumption due to the local market size and external market accessibility by promoting the distribution of consumer goods to villages.Secondly,this policy initiative has also increased the agricultural income of rural households and reduced their consumption disparity by distributing farm produce to cities and enhancing the agricultural income of rural households.Moreover,the work is characterized by inclusive growth and is not susceptible to the“elite capture”phenomenon.

Phytochemical screening and antibacterial activities of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina extracts on some selected enteric isolates

Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Vernonia amygdalina(Bitter leaf).The study specifically investigates their effects on different bacterial strains associated with gastroenteritis.Methods:Four enteric bacterial isolates-Klebsiella pneumoniae,Salmonella typhi,Escherichia coli,and Proteus mirabilis-were obtained from the Medical Laboratory Unit at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State.Phytochemical screening and antibacterial testing were conducted using standard biochemical techniques and the Punch-hole agar diffusion method,respectively.Results:Qualitative phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids,glycosides,and saponin in both plants,excluding terpenoids.Alkaloids were identified only in Vernonia amygdalina.Despite these phytochemicals,neither plant displayed inhibitory effects on the tested bacterial isolates(Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Klebsiella pneumoniae,and Salmonella typhi)when tested individually or in combination.Intriguingly,combining the fresh and dried leaf extracts of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina with a standard drug resulted in smaller mean zone diameters of inhibition(Escherichia coli range:14 mm–16 mm,Proteus mirabilis range:31 mm–35 mm,Klebsiella pneumoniae range:13 mm–22 mm,and Salmonella typhi range:35 mm–38 mm)compared to the drug tested alone(16 mm–45 mm).Conclusion:Despite previous indications of antibacterial properties in various extracts of V.amygdalina and M.charantia leaves,our study presents contradictory results,prompting the need for further investigation despite the presence of significant phytochemicals.

The Gut Brain Connection

The gut-brain connection is a bidirectional communication system that links the gut microbiome to the central nervous system (CNS). The gut-brain axis communicates through a variety of mechanisms, including the release of hormones, neurotransmitters, and cytokines. These signaling molecules can travel from the gut to the brain and vice versa, influencing various physiological and cognitive functions. Emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the gut-brain connection include probiotics, prebiotics, and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the beneficial bacteria that are naturally found in the gut. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. FMT is a procedure in which faecal matter from a healthy donor is transplanted into the gut of a person with a diseased microbiome. Probiotics, prebiotics, and FMT have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, and there is growing evidence that they may also be effective in treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This review explores the emerging field of the gut-brain connection, focusing on the communication pathways between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system. We summarize the potential roles of gut dysbiosis in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Additionally, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies, research limitations, and future directions in this exciting area of research. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the gut-brain connection and to develop safe and effective therapies that target this pathway. However, the findings to date are promising, and there is the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose and treat a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Comparative antimicrobial activity in Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Heifers’ urine and urine distillate

Background:Murrah buffalo is a breed of water buffalo(Bubalus bubalis)reared for milk and meat,especially in Northern India.There are so many studies on the antimicrobial potential of the cow(Bos indicus)urine but buffalo urine has rarely been studied.This study was aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity in whole buffalo urine and its distillate.Methods:Urine specimens were collected from seven Murrah buffalo heifers in the morning over three days from all seven heifers and distillated to prepare urine distillate(UD).The antimicrobial activity was determined through 96 well microplate method diluting(1:1)urine and UD in Mueller Hinton liquid medium against 919 microbial strains belonging to 148 species of 49 genera(Candia,11 genera of Gram+ve bacteria,37 genera of Gram-ve bacteria).The test strains were taken from the repository,revived and tested for purity before testing.The test strains were of clinical origin(372),environmental origin(496)and also from reference strain repositories(51).Results:Of the 919 test strains,a total of 57.89%and 56.04%of the tested strains were susceptible to UD and urine,respectively.There was a no significant(p>0.4)difference in the antimicrobial activity of UD and urine against 919 strains of microbes,regardless of their genus,species,and Gram staining reaction.Similarly,there was no significant(p>0.4)difference between the susceptibility of bacterial and Candida strains to UD or urine.However,strains of clinical origin were more often resistant to buffalo UD and urine(p<0.01)than strains isolated from environmental sources irrespective of their Gram staining characteristics(p>0.05).A significantly(p<0.01)higher proportion of reference strains was susceptible to UD and urine than microbial strains of clinical and environmental origin.For buffalo urine and UD,the most susceptible strains were Stenotrophomonas maltophilia(13/13)followed by Citrobacter freundii(8/10);Salmonella enterica ssp.enterica(21/27),Geobacillus stearothermophilus(23/30),Staphylococcus aureus(13/17),and Paenibacillus larvae(7/10)strains.The most resistant strains belonged to Acinetobacter calcoaceticus(15/20)species followed by strains of Paenibacillus alvei(11/16),Edwardsiella tarda(20/30),Bacillus megaterium(7/11)and Escherichia coli(59/110)species.There was insignificant(p,>0.05)difference in susceptibility of strains of different species of the same genus;however,among all the Bacillus species strains of B.coagulans were the most susceptible(66.7%)and strains of B.megaterium were the least susceptible(36.4%),similarly Enterococcus faecium strains were more susceptible(68.2%)than strains of Enterococcus faecalis(38.9%),70%strains of P.larvae were susceptible to urine and UD but only 31.3%of strains of P.alvei were susceptible.Strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Raoultella terrigena,earlier belonging to the same genus Klebsiella,had comparable susceptibility to buffalo urine and UD.Conclusion:The study concluded that buffalo urine may be a potential antimicrobial and may be explored further for identification of active antimicrobial compounds in buffalo urine.