[Objective] The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the herbal feed additive Zengrujianniusan on the milk production of dairy cows. [Method] Thirty-two black-white lactating cows were randomly divided...[Objective] The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the herbal feed additive Zengrujianniusan on the milk production of dairy cows. [Method] Thirty-two black-white lactating cows were randomly divided into four groups, and were fed with forage supplemented with 0 (control group), 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6% Zengrujianniusan for 60 d. During this period, the contents of fat, protein and non-fat solid in milk were measured every 20 d. [Result] The milk production of the cows whose forage was added with 0.2 %, 0.4 % and 0.6% Zengrujianniusan was 4.02%, 12.50%, 14.00% higher than that of the control (P〉0.05). The herbal feed additive had no significant influence on the contents of fat, milk and non-fat solid in milk, but significantly reduced the number of somatic cells. [Conclusion] The study will provide reference for developing feed additives which is safe and non-toxic to cows and their milk.展开更多
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are widespread environmental contaminants that are possible health hazards for human beings through a variety of pathways.In the present study,50 time mated pregnant rats were divided ...Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are widespread environmental contaminants that are possible health hazards for human beings through a variety of pathways.In the present study,50 time mated pregnant rats were divided into five groups and injected daily from gestational days 7 to 18 with either 2,2′,4,4′- tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 47) or 3,3′,4,4′- tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 77) or seseme oil (control) to evaluate the effects of these PCBs on prenatal and postnatal development.Offspring were examined for malformations of genitalia at birth and in adulthood.Body weight gains of these animals were checked every 7 days through postnatal day (PND) 119.There were no clinical signs of toxicity in the PCB-treated dams or their offspring throughout the experiment.Litter size and sex ratio of the litters were not affected.Both PCBs produced a significant increase in the females' anogenital distance,suggesting a modification of androgen responsiveness in females resulting from PCB exposure during development.Similar effects were not seen with the males.The proportion of individuals with eyes open by PND 15 was significantly reduced by both PCBs.Exposure to 1 mg/kg body weight of PCB 77 significantly reduced body weight gains in male pups from PND 35 to 119.However,no significant differences were found in body weight gains of the pups exposed to PCB 47.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the effect of multidisciplinary team (MDT) treatment modality on outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy in China. METHODS: Data about patients with gastric and colorectal cancer treated...AIM: To evaluate the effect of multidisciplinary team (MDT) treatment modality on outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy in China. METHODS: Data about patients with gastric and colorectal cancer treated in our center during the past 10 years were collected and divided into two parts. Part 1 consisted of the data collected from 516 consecutive complicated cases discussed at MDT meetings in Peking University School of Oncology (PKUSO) from December 2005 to July 2009. Part 2 consisted of the data collected from 263 consecutive cases of resect-able locally advanced rectal cancer from January 2001 to January 2005. These 263 patients were divided into neoadjuvant therapy (NT) group and control group. Patients in NT group received MDT treatment, namely neoadjuvant therapy + surgery + postoperative adjuvant therapy. Patients in control group underwent direct surgery + postoperative adjuvant therapy. The outcomes in two groups were compared. RESULTS: The treatment strategy was altered after discussed at MDT meeting in 76.81% of gastric cancer patients and in 58.33% of colorectal cancer patients before operation. The sphincter-preservation and local control of tumor were better in NT group than in control group. The 5-year overall survival rate was also higher in NT group than in control group (77.23% vs 69.75%, P = 0.049). CONCLUSION: MDT treatment modality can significantly improve the outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy in China.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the protective role of AE-941,a matrix metalloproteinase(MMP) inhibitor,on ulcerative colitis(UC) in rats.METHODS:Sprague Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups:a control group,an AE-9...AIM:To evaluate the protective role of AE-941,a matrix metalloproteinase(MMP) inhibitor,on ulcerative colitis(UC) in rats.METHODS:Sprague Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups:a control group,an AE-941 treatment group,and an UC model group.Rats were sacrificed on days 7,21,or 56 following administration of treatment by enema and the disease activity index(DAI),colonic mucosa damage index(CMDI) and colonic expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were assessed.RESULTS:DAI and CDMI scores in the UC model group increased significantly compared to the control group at all timepoints(P < 0.001),and also increased significantly at the 21-and 56-d timepoints compared to the AE-941-treated group(DAI:21-and 56-d = 2.09 ± 0.25,1.52 ± 0.30 vs 1.55 ± 0.28,0.59 ± 0.19,respectively,P = 0.040 and 0.007,CMDI:21-and 56-d = 3.03 ± 0.42,1.60 ± 0.35 vs 2.08 ± 0.46,0.86 ± 0.37,respectively,P = 0.040 and 0.005).Furthermore,the colonic expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the UC model group increased significantly compared to the control group(P < 0.001),and also increased compared to the AE-941-treated group on the 21-and 56-d timepoints(MMP-2:21-and 56-d = 0.6048 ± 0.0522,0.4163 ± 0.0330vs 0.3983 ± 0.0218,0.1093 ± 0.0072,respectively,P = 0.010;MMP-9:21-and 56-d = 0.6873 ± 0.0472,0.4328 ± 0.0257vs 0.5179 ± 0.0305,0.2673 ± 0.0210,respectively,P = 0.010 and 0.040).CONCLUSION:Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 increased significantly in rats with UC.AE-941 can reduce colonic mucosal damage by downregulating the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9.展开更多
Objective: To assess the effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after radical hepatectomy. Methods: A total of 478 HBV-related HCC patients treated by radi...Objective: To assess the effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after radical hepatectomy. Methods: A total of 478 HBV-related HCC patients treated by radical hepatectomy were retrospectively collected. Patients in the treatment group (n=141) received postoperative lamivudine treatment (100 rag/d), whereas patients in the control group (n=337) did not. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates, overall survival (OS) rates, treatments for recurrent HCC and cause of death were compared between the two groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was also conducted to reduce confounding bias between the two groups. Results: The 1-, 3-, and 5-year RFS rates didn't significantly differ between the two groups (P=0.778); however, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates in the treatment group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P=0.002). Similar results were observed in the matched data. Subgroup analysis showed that antiviral treatment conferred a significant survival benefit for Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer stage A/B patients. Following HCC recurrence, more people in the treatment group were able to choose curative treatments than those in the control group (P=0.031). For cause of death, fewer people in the treatment group died of liver failure than those in the control group (P=0.041). Conclusion: Postoperative antiviral therapy increases chances of receiving curative treatments for recurrent HCC and prevents death because of liver failure, thereby significantly prolonging OS, especially in early- or intermedian-stage tumors.展开更多
AIM: To create a rabbit model of pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and to evaluate the role of adiponectin in the process. METHODS: Thirty-two specific pathogen-free male New Zealand rabbits were divid...AIM: To create a rabbit model of pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and to evaluate the role of adiponectin in the process. METHODS: Thirty-two specific pathogen-free male New Zealand rabbits were divided randomly into three groups: (1) the normal control group (n = 10) was fed with standard diet for 12 wk; (2) the model group A (n = 11); and (3) model group B (n = 11) were fed with a highfat diet (standard diet + 10% lard + 2% cholesterol) for 8 and 12 wk, respectively. Hepatic histological changes were observed and biochemical parameters as well as serum levels of adiponectin, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured. RESULTS: Typical histological hepatic lesions of NASH were observed in both model groups described as liver steatosis, liver inflammatory infiltration, cytologic ballooning, perisinusoidal fibrosis and overall fibrosis. Compared with the normal control group, there were significant increases in model groups A and B in weight gain (1097.2 ± 72.3, 1360.5± 107.6 vs 928.0 ±58.1, P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01), liver weight (93.81±6.64, 104.6±4.42 vs 54.4±1.71, P 〈 0.01), Lg (ALT) (1.9±0.29, 1.84± 0.28 vs 1.60±0.17, P 〈 0.01), and Lg (TG) (1.03 ±0.24, 1.16 ±0.33 vs 0.00 ±0.16, P 〈 0.01). Weight gain was much more in model group B than in model group A (1360.5± 107.6 vs 1097.2 ±72.3, P 〈 0.05). But, there was no significant difference between the two groups concerning the other indexes. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) increased in model group B compared with that of control and model group A (IL-6:1.86±0.21 vs 1.41 ±0.33, 1.38± 0.42, P 〈 0.01; TNF-α: 1.18±0.07 vs 0.66 ±0.08, 0.86 ±0.43, P 〈 0.01, P 〈 0.05), whereas serum adiponectin and IL-10 decreased in model groups compared with that in the control (adiponectin: A: 21.87±4.84 and B: 21.48 ±4.60 vs 27.36 ±7.29, P 〈 0.05. IL-10: A: 1.72± 0.38 and B: 1.83 ±0.39 vs 2.26±0.24, P 〈 0.01). Lg (TC) and the degree of liver fatty infiltration was an independent determinant of serum adiponectin level analyzed by stepwise multiple regressions, resulting in 29.4% of variances. CONCLUSION: This rabbit model produces the key features of pediatric NASH and may provide a realistic model for future studies. Adiponectin level partially reflects the severity of liver steatosis, but not the degree of liver inflammation.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the possible relationship between varicocele and chronic constipation.METHODS:Between April 2009 and May 2010,a total of 135 patients with varicocele or constipation and 120 healthy controls were evalu...AIM:To evaluate the possible relationship between varicocele and chronic constipation.METHODS:Between April 2009 and May 2010,a total of 135 patients with varicocele or constipation and 120 healthy controls were evaluated.Patients were divided into two groups.In both groups detailed medical history was taken and all patients were examined physically by the same urologist and gastroenterologist.All of them were evaluated by color Doppler ultrasonography.All patients with constipation,except for the healthy controls of the second group,underwent a colonoscopy to identify the etiology of the constipation.In the first group,we determined the rate of chronic constipation in patients with varicocele and in the second group,the rate of varicocele in patients with chronic constipation.In both groups,the rate of the disease was compared with age-matched healthy controls.In the second group,the results of colonoscopies in the patients with chronic constipations were also evaluated.RESULTS:In the first group,mean age of the study and control groups were 22.9 ± 4.47 and 21.8 ± 7.21 years,respectively(P < 0.05).In the second group,mean age of the study and control groups were 52.8 ± 33.3 and 51.7 ± 54.3 years,respectively(P < 0.05).In the first group,chronic constipation was observed in 8 of the 69 patients with varicocele(11.6%) and 3 out of 60 in healthy controls(5%),respectively.In this regard,there was no statistical significance between varicocele patients and the healthy control(P = 0.37).In the second group,varicocele was observed in 16 of the 66 patients with chronic constipation(24.24%) and 12 out of 60 in healthy controls(20%) respectively.Similarly,there was no statistical significance between chronic constipation and healthy controls(P = 0.72).Internal/external hemorrhoids were detected in 4 of the 16 patients with chronic constipation and varicocele,in the second group.In the remaining 50 patients with chronic constipation 9 had internal/external hemorrhoids.In this regard,there was no statistical significance between chronic constipation and healthy controls(P = 0.80).CONCLUSION:Chronic constipation may not be a major predictive factor for the development of varicocele,but it may be a facilitator factor for varicocele.展开更多
AIM:To investigate hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence in Tunisian patients with diabetes mellitus and in a control group. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the HCV seroprevalence in 1...AIM:To investigate hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence in Tunisian patients with diabetes mellitus and in a control group. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the HCV seroprevalence in 1269 patients with diabetes (452 male, 817 female) and 1315 nondiabetic patients, attending health centers in Sousse, Tunisia. HCV screening was performed in both groups using a fourth-generation enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: In the diabetic group, 17 (1.3%) were found to be HCV-infected compared with eight (0.6%) in the control group, although the difference was not significant (P = 0.057). Quantitative PCR was performed in 20 patients. Eleven patients were positive and showed HCV genotype lb in all cases. CONCLUSION: Frequency of HCV antibodies was low in patients with diabetes and in the control group in central Tunisia, with no significant difference between the groups.展开更多
AIM:To study the effects of live and dead Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG(GG) on rotavirus infection in a neonatal rat model.METHODS:At the age of 2 d,suckling Lewis rat pups were supplemented with either live or dead GG a...AIM:To study the effects of live and dead Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG(GG) on rotavirus infection in a neonatal rat model.METHODS:At the age of 2 d,suckling Lewis rat pups were supplemented with either live or dead GG and the treatment was continued daily throughout the experi-ment.At the age of 5 and 6 d the pups received oral rotavirus(RV) SA-11 strain.The pups were sacrificed at the age of 7 or 8 d by decapitation.The gastrointestinal tract was removed and macroscopic observations were done.The consistency of feces in the colon was classified using a four-tier system.RV was detected from the plasma,small intestine,colon and feces by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(PCR).RESULTS:In this neonatal rat model,RV induced a mild-to-moderate diarrhea in all except one pup of the RV-inoculated rats.RV moderately reduced body weight development from day 6 onwards.On day 7,after 2 d of RV infection,live and dead GG groups gained significantly more weight than the RV group without probiotics [36%(P = 0.001) and 28%(P = 0.031),respectively].In addition,when compared with the RV control group,both live and dead GG reduced the weight ratio of colon/animal body weight to the same level as in the healthy control group,with reductions of 22%(P = 0.002) and 28%(P < 0.001),respectively.Diarrhea increased moderately in both GG groups.However,the diarrhea incidence and severity in the GG groups were not statistically significantly different as compared with the RV control group.Moreover,observed diarrhea did not provoke weight loss or death.The RV control group had the largest amount of RV PCR-positive samples among the RV-infected groups,and the live GG group had the smallest amount.Rats receiving live GG had significantly less RV in the colon(P = 0.027) when compared with the RV control group.Live GG was also more effective over dead GG in reducing the quantity of RV from plasma(P = 0.047).CONCLUSION:Both live and dead GG have beneficial effects in RV infection.GG may increase RV clearance from the body and reduce colon swelling.展开更多
Objective: To observe the expression of CD13/APN in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions of patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris, and discuss its effect on the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Methods: CD 13...Objective: To observe the expression of CD13/APN in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions of patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris, and discuss its effect on the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Methods: CD 13 expression in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions was detected by flow cytometry and imrnunohistochemical technique, respectively. Results were compared with those of healthy controls. Results: CD 13 expression was significantly higher in peripheral blood lymphocytes of patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris than in that of healthy controls, and in skin lesions than in healthy skin tissues. The expression was mainly in the suprabasal layers of skin lesions, and positively correlated to PASI (R 0.78029). Conclusion: The significantly higher expression of CD13 in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions of the patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris probably is related to immunological abnormality, blood vessel abnormality and proliferation of keratinocyte in the pathogenic course of psoriasis. It may be a novel and effective way to treat psoriasis with specific CD13 inhibitors.展开更多
The morphological characteristics and the cuttlebone formation of Sepia esculenta exposed to different water temperature fluctuations were investigated under laboratory conditions. Temperature fluctuation cycles (15 ...The morphological characteristics and the cuttlebone formation of Sepia esculenta exposed to different water temperature fluctuations were investigated under laboratory conditions. Temperature fluctuation cycles (15 cycles, 60 d in total) consisted of the following three regimes of 4 d duration: keeping water temperature in 26℃ for 3 d (Group A), 2 d (Group B), 0 d (Group C, control); then keeping water temperature in 16℃ for the next 1, 2, 4 d. No significant difference in the survival rate was observed between the control and temperature fluctuation groups (P〉0.05). Lamellar depositions in a temperature fluctuation cycle were 2.45±0.02 for Group A, 2.00±0.02 for Group B, and 1.78±0.02 for Group C (P〈0.05). The relationship between age and number of lamellas in the cuttlebone of S. esculenta under each water temperature fluctuation could be described as the linear model and the number of lamellas in the cuttlebone did not correspond to actual age. Group A had the highest cuttlebone growth index (CGI), the lowest locular index (LI), and inter-streak distances comparing with those of control group. However, the number of lamellas and LI or CGI showed a quadratic relationship for each temperature fluctuation group. In addition, temperature fluctuations caused the breakage of cuttlebone dark rings, which was considered a thermal mark. The position of the breakage in the dark rings was random. This thermal mark can be used as supplementary information for marking and releasing techniques.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the possible role of Tribble 3 (TRB3) in a rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its signal transduction mechanism.METHODS: Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into t...AIM: To evaluate the possible role of Tribble 3 (TRB3) in a rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its signal transduction mechanism.METHODS: Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: normal control group, non-alcoholic fatty liver group A (fed on a high-fat diet for 8 wk) and group B (fed on a high-fat diet for 16 wk). To determine the degree of hepatic steatosis in rats of each group, livers were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and evaluated; real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the expression levels of TRI33 mRNA, and Western blotting analysis was done to determine the expression levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-Akt-Thr308, p-Akt-Ser473).RESULTS: Hepatic steatosis was evident in both NAFLD groups: mild to moderate hepatic steatosis occurred in group A, mainly as mild steatosis.Moderate to severe hepatic steatosis occurred in group B, mainly as severe steatosis. The expression level of TRB3 mRNA in group B was significantly higher than in the control group (122.28 ± 95.37 vs 3.06 ± 2.33,P = 0.002) and group A (122.28 ± 95.37 vs 5.77 ± 4.20,P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the expression levels of Akt (1.03 ± 0.53 vs 1.12 ± 0.77,P = 0.729) and p-Akt-Thr308 (0.82 ± 0.45 vs 0.92 ± 0.38, P = 0.592) between group A and the control group. The expression level of Akt and p-Akt-Thr308 in group B was significantly lower than in group A (Akt 0.41 ± 0.16 vs 1.12 ± 0.77, P = 0.008; p-Akt-Thr308 0.47 ± 0.19 vs 0.82 ± 0.45, P = 0.036) and the control group (Akt 0.41 ± 0.16 vs 1.03 ± 0.53, P = 0.018;p-Akt-Thr308 0.47 ± 0.19 vs 0.92 ± 0.38, P = 0.010).The expression level of p-Akt-Ser473 in group A was significantly higher than in group B (1.48 ± 0.50 vs 0.81± 0.39, P = 0.041) as well as the control group (1.48 ± 0.50 vs 0.45 ± 0.26, P = 0.003).CONCLUSION: TRB3 blocks insulin signaling by inhibiting Akt activation, which contributes to insulin resistance. It may be an important factor in the occurrence and development of NAFLD.展开更多
AIM: To investigate in vitro and in vivo therapeutic effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 on biliary tract cancer. METHODS: Cell growth inhibition by NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 was stud...AIM: To investigate in vitro and in vivo therapeutic effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 on biliary tract cancer. METHODS: Cell growth inhibition by NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 was studied in vitro in 7 human biliary tract cancer cell lines by MTT assay. In addition, the antitumoral effect of NVP-LBH589 was studied in a chimeric mouse model. Anti-tumoral drug mechanism was assessed by immunoblotting for acH4 and p21^WAFl/CIP-1, PARP assay, cell cycle analysis, TUNEL assay, and immunhistochemistry for MIB-1. RESULTS: In vitro treatment with both compounds significantly suppressed the growth of all cancer cell lines [mean IC50 (3 d) 0.11 and 0.05 μmol/L, respectively], and was associated with hyperacetylation of nucleosomal histone H4, increased expression of p21^WAF-1/CIP-1, induction of apoptosis (PARP cleavage), and cell cycle arrest at G2/M checkpoint. After 28 d, NVP- LBH589 significantly reduced tumor mass by 66% (bile duct cancer) and 87% (gallbladder cancer) in vivo in comparison to placebo, and potentiated the efficacy of gemcitabine. Further analysis of the tumor specimens revealed increased apoptosis by TUNEL assay and reduced cell proliferation (MIB-1). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that NVP-LBH589 and NVP-LAQ824 are active against human biliary tract cancer in vitro. In addition, NVP-LBH589 demonstrated significant in vivo activity and potentiated the efficacy of gemcitabine. Therefore, further clinical evaluation of this new drug for the treatment of biliary tract cancer is recommended.展开更多
Anxiety is one of the psychological problems in pregnant women that sometimes takes the form of pathological and affects the mental health of mother. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of fetal movemen...Anxiety is one of the psychological problems in pregnant women that sometimes takes the form of pathological and affects the mental health of mother. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of fetal movement counting on mental health of mother. In a randomized-controlled trial, 208 nulliparous women were randomly divided into two groups. At 28th weeks, both groups completed the GHQ-28. Then the intervention group started to count fetal movements from 28th to 37th weeks of gestation and the control group received routine prenatal care. Again, both groups completed the questionnaire at 37 weeks' gestation and the results were compared. Analysis was performed by SPSS and a P value 〈 0.05 was considered significant. The mean scores of mental health of mothers in 28th and 37th of pregnancy was respectively 23.52 ± 10.23 and 21.09 ± 10.12 in the intervention group and the difference was significant (P = 0.025). The mean in the control group was 23.69 ± 9.43 and 23.88± 8.60 respectively, and the difference was not significant (P = 0.52). In comparing the mean scores between the two groups, it was found that the difference was not significant at 28th weeks of gestation (P = 0.37), but it was significant in 37th week (P = 0.002) and the counting of fetal movements could improve the mental health of mothers compared to control group. The women who had fetal movements counting at weeks 28 to 37 Of gestation reported better mental health than the control group. The mother renorted concerns about decreased fetal movement was similar in the two grouns.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of vitamin supplements on homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease. METHODS: Vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, and fasting plasma homocysteine levels were measured in 51 consec...AIM: To investigate the effect of vitamin supplements on homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease. METHODS: Vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, and fasting plasma homocysteine levels were measured in 51 consecutive adults with celiac disease [median (range) age 56 (18-63) years; 40% men, 26 (51%) had villous atrophy, and 25 (49%) used B-vitamin supplements] and 50 healthy control individuals matched for age and sex. Finally, the C677T polymorphism of 5,10-methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) was evaluated in 46 patients with celiac disease and all control individuals. RESULTS: Patients with celiac disease and using vitamin supplements had higher serum vitamin B6 (P = 0.003),folate (P < 0.001), and vitamin B12 (P = 0.012) levels than patients who did not or healthy controls (P = 0.035, P < 0.001, P = 0.007, for vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin B12, respectively). Lower plasma homocysteine levels were found in patients using vitamin supplements than in patients who did not (P = 0.001) or healthy controls (P = 0.003). However, vitamin B6 and folate, not vitamin B12, were significantly and independently associated with homocysteine levels. Twenty-four (48%) of 50 controls and 23 (50%) of 46 patients with celiac disease carried the MTHFR thermolabile variant T-allele (P = 0.89). CONCLUSION: Homocysteine levels are dependent on Marsh classification and the regular use of B-vitamin supplements is effective in reduction of homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease and should be considered in disease management.展开更多
Background: A positive association between fundamental movement skills (FMS) and physical activity (PA) has been shown in previous research of children with and without disability. This pilot study explored a cau...Background: A positive association between fundamental movement skills (FMS) and physical activity (PA) has been shown in previous research of children with and without disability. This pilot study explored a causal mechanism for such relationship, and hypothesized that when FMS proficiency is improved, enhanced PA uptake will be found in children with and without disability. It was further hypothesized that improving FMS proficiency will have a greater impact on children with disability than those without disability. Methods: Participants include typically developing (TD) children without disability and children with cerebral palsy (CP), who were allocated to FMS training groups (CP-FMS n = 12, TD-FMS n = 13) and control groups (CP-C n = 12, TD-C n = 13). Training groups practiced five FMS (run, jump, kick, throw, catch) in weekly 45-min sessions for 4 weeks. Control groups had their regular physiotherapy (CP) or physical education (TD) sessions. FMS were evaluated using process- and product-oriented measures, and PA was measured using accelerometers, before and after training. Results: It was verified that training groups gained improvements in FMS while control groups did not. No significant changes in weekday PA were found. Increased weekend moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was found in the CP-FMS group, while decreased weekend sedentary time was found in the CP-FMS and TD-FMS groups. The percentages of participants who exceeded the minimum detectable change (MDC9o) in MVPA and sedentary time were larger in children with CP than in children without disability. Conclusion: The findings suggest that improved FMS proficiency could potentially contribute to heightened PA and decreased sedentary time during weekends for children. Such effect of improved FMS proficiency on PA appears to be greater in those with physical disability than in those without disability. It is recommended that the findings of this pilot study should be further examined in future research.展开更多
基金Supported by Science and Technology Development Program of Shijiazhuang City(08150132A)China Spark Program(2012GA6200025)~~
文摘[Objective] The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the herbal feed additive Zengrujianniusan on the milk production of dairy cows. [Method] Thirty-two black-white lactating cows were randomly divided into four groups, and were fed with forage supplemented with 0 (control group), 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6% Zengrujianniusan for 60 d. During this period, the contents of fat, protein and non-fat solid in milk were measured every 20 d. [Result] The milk production of the cows whose forage was added with 0.2 %, 0.4 % and 0.6% Zengrujianniusan was 4.02%, 12.50%, 14.00% higher than that of the control (P〉0.05). The herbal feed additive had no significant influence on the contents of fat, milk and non-fat solid in milk, but significantly reduced the number of somatic cells. [Conclusion] The study will provide reference for developing feed additives which is safe and non-toxic to cows and their milk.
文摘Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are widespread environmental contaminants that are possible health hazards for human beings through a variety of pathways.In the present study,50 time mated pregnant rats were divided into five groups and injected daily from gestational days 7 to 18 with either 2,2′,4,4′- tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 47) or 3,3′,4,4′- tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 77) or seseme oil (control) to evaluate the effects of these PCBs on prenatal and postnatal development.Offspring were examined for malformations of genitalia at birth and in adulthood.Body weight gains of these animals were checked every 7 days through postnatal day (PND) 119.There were no clinical signs of toxicity in the PCB-treated dams or their offspring throughout the experiment.Litter size and sex ratio of the litters were not affected.Both PCBs produced a significant increase in the females' anogenital distance,suggesting a modification of androgen responsiveness in females resulting from PCB exposure during development.Similar effects were not seen with the males.The proportion of individuals with eyes open by PND 15 was significantly reduced by both PCBs.Exposure to 1 mg/kg body weight of PCB 77 significantly reduced body weight gains in male pups from PND 35 to 119.However,no significant differences were found in body weight gains of the pups exposed to PCB 47.
文摘AIM: To evaluate the effect of multidisciplinary team (MDT) treatment modality on outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy in China. METHODS: Data about patients with gastric and colorectal cancer treated in our center during the past 10 years were collected and divided into two parts. Part 1 consisted of the data collected from 516 consecutive complicated cases discussed at MDT meetings in Peking University School of Oncology (PKUSO) from December 2005 to July 2009. Part 2 consisted of the data collected from 263 consecutive cases of resect-able locally advanced rectal cancer from January 2001 to January 2005. These 263 patients were divided into neoadjuvant therapy (NT) group and control group. Patients in NT group received MDT treatment, namely neoadjuvant therapy + surgery + postoperative adjuvant therapy. Patients in control group underwent direct surgery + postoperative adjuvant therapy. The outcomes in two groups were compared. RESULTS: The treatment strategy was altered after discussed at MDT meeting in 76.81% of gastric cancer patients and in 58.33% of colorectal cancer patients before operation. The sphincter-preservation and local control of tumor were better in NT group than in control group. The 5-year overall survival rate was also higher in NT group than in control group (77.23% vs 69.75%, P = 0.049). CONCLUSION: MDT treatment modality can significantly improve the outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy in China.
基金Supported by Grants from Fund of the Education Department, Liaoning Province
文摘AIM:To evaluate the protective role of AE-941,a matrix metalloproteinase(MMP) inhibitor,on ulcerative colitis(UC) in rats.METHODS:Sprague Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups:a control group,an AE-941 treatment group,and an UC model group.Rats were sacrificed on days 7,21,or 56 following administration of treatment by enema and the disease activity index(DAI),colonic mucosa damage index(CMDI) and colonic expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were assessed.RESULTS:DAI and CDMI scores in the UC model group increased significantly compared to the control group at all timepoints(P < 0.001),and also increased significantly at the 21-and 56-d timepoints compared to the AE-941-treated group(DAI:21-and 56-d = 2.09 ± 0.25,1.52 ± 0.30 vs 1.55 ± 0.28,0.59 ± 0.19,respectively,P = 0.040 and 0.007,CMDI:21-and 56-d = 3.03 ± 0.42,1.60 ± 0.35 vs 2.08 ± 0.46,0.86 ± 0.37,respectively,P = 0.040 and 0.005).Furthermore,the colonic expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the UC model group increased significantly compared to the control group(P < 0.001),and also increased compared to the AE-941-treated group on the 21-and 56-d timepoints(MMP-2:21-and 56-d = 0.6048 ± 0.0522,0.4163 ± 0.0330vs 0.3983 ± 0.0218,0.1093 ± 0.0072,respectively,P = 0.010;MMP-9:21-and 56-d = 0.6873 ± 0.0472,0.4328 ± 0.0257vs 0.5179 ± 0.0305,0.2673 ± 0.0210,respectively,P = 0.010 and 0.040).CONCLUSION:Expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 increased significantly in rats with UC.AE-941 can reduce colonic mucosal damage by downregulating the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9.
基金supported by grants from the National Science & Technology Major Project(Grant No.2012ZX10002010)Guangxi Scientific Research & Technical Development Project(Grant No.10124001A-4)the Self-raised Scientific Research Fund of the Ministry of Health of Guangxi(Grant No.Z2011211)
文摘Objective: To assess the effect of antiviral therapy for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after radical hepatectomy. Methods: A total of 478 HBV-related HCC patients treated by radical hepatectomy were retrospectively collected. Patients in the treatment group (n=141) received postoperative lamivudine treatment (100 rag/d), whereas patients in the control group (n=337) did not. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates, overall survival (OS) rates, treatments for recurrent HCC and cause of death were compared between the two groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was also conducted to reduce confounding bias between the two groups. Results: The 1-, 3-, and 5-year RFS rates didn't significantly differ between the two groups (P=0.778); however, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates in the treatment group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P=0.002). Similar results were observed in the matched data. Subgroup analysis showed that antiviral treatment conferred a significant survival benefit for Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer stage A/B patients. Following HCC recurrence, more people in the treatment group were able to choose curative treatments than those in the control group (P=0.031). For cause of death, fewer people in the treatment group died of liver failure than those in the control group (P=0.041). Conclusion: Postoperative antiviral therapy increases chances of receiving curative treatments for recurrent HCC and prevents death because of liver failure, thereby significantly prolonging OS, especially in early- or intermedian-stage tumors.
基金Supported by The funds for programs of Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science, No.Y2080047Major Programs of Zhejiang Provincial Medical and Health Science and Technology & Chinese Ministry of Health, No.WKJ2008-2-026Special Major Programs of Zhejiang Provincial Science and Technology, No. 2008c03002-1
文摘AIM: To create a rabbit model of pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and to evaluate the role of adiponectin in the process. METHODS: Thirty-two specific pathogen-free male New Zealand rabbits were divided randomly into three groups: (1) the normal control group (n = 10) was fed with standard diet for 12 wk; (2) the model group A (n = 11); and (3) model group B (n = 11) were fed with a highfat diet (standard diet + 10% lard + 2% cholesterol) for 8 and 12 wk, respectively. Hepatic histological changes were observed and biochemical parameters as well as serum levels of adiponectin, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured. RESULTS: Typical histological hepatic lesions of NASH were observed in both model groups described as liver steatosis, liver inflammatory infiltration, cytologic ballooning, perisinusoidal fibrosis and overall fibrosis. Compared with the normal control group, there were significant increases in model groups A and B in weight gain (1097.2 ± 72.3, 1360.5± 107.6 vs 928.0 ±58.1, P 〈 0.05, P 〈 0.01), liver weight (93.81±6.64, 104.6±4.42 vs 54.4±1.71, P 〈 0.01), Lg (ALT) (1.9±0.29, 1.84± 0.28 vs 1.60±0.17, P 〈 0.01), and Lg (TG) (1.03 ±0.24, 1.16 ±0.33 vs 0.00 ±0.16, P 〈 0.01). Weight gain was much more in model group B than in model group A (1360.5± 107.6 vs 1097.2 ±72.3, P 〈 0.05). But, there was no significant difference between the two groups concerning the other indexes. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) increased in model group B compared with that of control and model group A (IL-6:1.86±0.21 vs 1.41 ±0.33, 1.38± 0.42, P 〈 0.01; TNF-α: 1.18±0.07 vs 0.66 ±0.08, 0.86 ±0.43, P 〈 0.01, P 〈 0.05), whereas serum adiponectin and IL-10 decreased in model groups compared with that in the control (adiponectin: A: 21.87±4.84 and B: 21.48 ±4.60 vs 27.36 ±7.29, P 〈 0.05. IL-10: A: 1.72± 0.38 and B: 1.83 ±0.39 vs 2.26±0.24, P 〈 0.01). Lg (TC) and the degree of liver fatty infiltration was an independent determinant of serum adiponectin level analyzed by stepwise multiple regressions, resulting in 29.4% of variances. CONCLUSION: This rabbit model produces the key features of pediatric NASH and may provide a realistic model for future studies. Adiponectin level partially reflects the severity of liver steatosis, but not the degree of liver inflammation.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the possible relationship between varicocele and chronic constipation.METHODS:Between April 2009 and May 2010,a total of 135 patients with varicocele or constipation and 120 healthy controls were evaluated.Patients were divided into two groups.In both groups detailed medical history was taken and all patients were examined physically by the same urologist and gastroenterologist.All of them were evaluated by color Doppler ultrasonography.All patients with constipation,except for the healthy controls of the second group,underwent a colonoscopy to identify the etiology of the constipation.In the first group,we determined the rate of chronic constipation in patients with varicocele and in the second group,the rate of varicocele in patients with chronic constipation.In both groups,the rate of the disease was compared with age-matched healthy controls.In the second group,the results of colonoscopies in the patients with chronic constipations were also evaluated.RESULTS:In the first group,mean age of the study and control groups were 22.9 ± 4.47 and 21.8 ± 7.21 years,respectively(P < 0.05).In the second group,mean age of the study and control groups were 52.8 ± 33.3 and 51.7 ± 54.3 years,respectively(P < 0.05).In the first group,chronic constipation was observed in 8 of the 69 patients with varicocele(11.6%) and 3 out of 60 in healthy controls(5%),respectively.In this regard,there was no statistical significance between varicocele patients and the healthy control(P = 0.37).In the second group,varicocele was observed in 16 of the 66 patients with chronic constipation(24.24%) and 12 out of 60 in healthy controls(20%) respectively.Similarly,there was no statistical significance between chronic constipation and healthy controls(P = 0.72).Internal/external hemorrhoids were detected in 4 of the 16 patients with chronic constipation and varicocele,in the second group.In the remaining 50 patients with chronic constipation 9 had internal/external hemorrhoids.In this regard,there was no statistical significance between chronic constipation and healthy controls(P = 0.80).CONCLUSION:Chronic constipation may not be a major predictive factor for the development of varicocele,but it may be a facilitator factor for varicocele.
文摘AIM:To investigate hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence in Tunisian patients with diabetes mellitus and in a control group. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the HCV seroprevalence in 1269 patients with diabetes (452 male, 817 female) and 1315 nondiabetic patients, attending health centers in Sousse, Tunisia. HCV screening was performed in both groups using a fourth-generation enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: In the diabetic group, 17 (1.3%) were found to be HCV-infected compared with eight (0.6%) in the control group, although the difference was not significant (P = 0.057). Quantitative PCR was performed in 20 patients. Eleven patients were positive and showed HCV genotype lb in all cases. CONCLUSION: Frequency of HCV antibodies was low in patients with diabetes and in the control group in central Tunisia, with no significant difference between the groups.
基金Supported by Valio Ltd and the Finnish Funding Agency of Technology and InnovationThe Foundation for Nutrition Research has financially contributed to Liisa Lehtoranta’s doctoral studies
文摘AIM:To study the effects of live and dead Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG(GG) on rotavirus infection in a neonatal rat model.METHODS:At the age of 2 d,suckling Lewis rat pups were supplemented with either live or dead GG and the treatment was continued daily throughout the experi-ment.At the age of 5 and 6 d the pups received oral rotavirus(RV) SA-11 strain.The pups were sacrificed at the age of 7 or 8 d by decapitation.The gastrointestinal tract was removed and macroscopic observations were done.The consistency of feces in the colon was classified using a four-tier system.RV was detected from the plasma,small intestine,colon and feces by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(PCR).RESULTS:In this neonatal rat model,RV induced a mild-to-moderate diarrhea in all except one pup of the RV-inoculated rats.RV moderately reduced body weight development from day 6 onwards.On day 7,after 2 d of RV infection,live and dead GG groups gained significantly more weight than the RV group without probiotics [36%(P = 0.001) and 28%(P = 0.031),respectively].In addition,when compared with the RV control group,both live and dead GG reduced the weight ratio of colon/animal body weight to the same level as in the healthy control group,with reductions of 22%(P = 0.002) and 28%(P < 0.001),respectively.Diarrhea increased moderately in both GG groups.However,the diarrhea incidence and severity in the GG groups were not statistically significantly different as compared with the RV control group.Moreover,observed diarrhea did not provoke weight loss or death.The RV control group had the largest amount of RV PCR-positive samples among the RV-infected groups,and the live GG group had the smallest amount.Rats receiving live GG had significantly less RV in the colon(P = 0.027) when compared with the RV control group.Live GG was also more effective over dead GG in reducing the quantity of RV from plasma(P = 0.047).CONCLUSION:Both live and dead GG have beneficial effects in RV infection.GG may increase RV clearance from the body and reduce colon swelling.
文摘Objective: To observe the expression of CD13/APN in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions of patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris, and discuss its effect on the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Methods: CD 13 expression in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions was detected by flow cytometry and imrnunohistochemical technique, respectively. Results were compared with those of healthy controls. Results: CD 13 expression was significantly higher in peripheral blood lymphocytes of patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris than in that of healthy controls, and in skin lesions than in healthy skin tissues. The expression was mainly in the suprabasal layers of skin lesions, and positively correlated to PASI (R 0.78029). Conclusion: The significantly higher expression of CD13 in peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin lesions of the patients with advanced psoriasis vulgaris probably is related to immunological abnormality, blood vessel abnormality and proliferation of keratinocyte in the pathogenic course of psoriasis. It may be a novel and effective way to treat psoriasis with specific CD13 inhibitors.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (863 Program) (No. 2010AA10A404)the National Marine Public Welfare Research Project (No. 200805069)the NMOE Project (No. 1011010603)
文摘The morphological characteristics and the cuttlebone formation of Sepia esculenta exposed to different water temperature fluctuations were investigated under laboratory conditions. Temperature fluctuation cycles (15 cycles, 60 d in total) consisted of the following three regimes of 4 d duration: keeping water temperature in 26℃ for 3 d (Group A), 2 d (Group B), 0 d (Group C, control); then keeping water temperature in 16℃ for the next 1, 2, 4 d. No significant difference in the survival rate was observed between the control and temperature fluctuation groups (P〉0.05). Lamellar depositions in a temperature fluctuation cycle were 2.45±0.02 for Group A, 2.00±0.02 for Group B, and 1.78±0.02 for Group C (P〈0.05). The relationship between age and number of lamellas in the cuttlebone of S. esculenta under each water temperature fluctuation could be described as the linear model and the number of lamellas in the cuttlebone did not correspond to actual age. Group A had the highest cuttlebone growth index (CGI), the lowest locular index (LI), and inter-streak distances comparing with those of control group. However, the number of lamellas and LI or CGI showed a quadratic relationship for each temperature fluctuation group. In addition, temperature fluctuations caused the breakage of cuttlebone dark rings, which was considered a thermal mark. The position of the breakage in the dark rings was random. This thermal mark can be used as supplementary information for marking and releasing techniques.
文摘AIM: To evaluate the possible role of Tribble 3 (TRB3) in a rat model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its signal transduction mechanism.METHODS: Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: normal control group, non-alcoholic fatty liver group A (fed on a high-fat diet for 8 wk) and group B (fed on a high-fat diet for 16 wk). To determine the degree of hepatic steatosis in rats of each group, livers were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and evaluated; real-time fluorescent quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the expression levels of TRI33 mRNA, and Western blotting analysis was done to determine the expression levels of protein kinase B (Akt) and phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-Akt-Thr308, p-Akt-Ser473).RESULTS: Hepatic steatosis was evident in both NAFLD groups: mild to moderate hepatic steatosis occurred in group A, mainly as mild steatosis.Moderate to severe hepatic steatosis occurred in group B, mainly as severe steatosis. The expression level of TRB3 mRNA in group B was significantly higher than in the control group (122.28 ± 95.37 vs 3.06 ± 2.33,P = 0.002) and group A (122.28 ± 95.37 vs 5.77 ± 4.20,P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the expression levels of Akt (1.03 ± 0.53 vs 1.12 ± 0.77,P = 0.729) and p-Akt-Thr308 (0.82 ± 0.45 vs 0.92 ± 0.38, P = 0.592) between group A and the control group. The expression level of Akt and p-Akt-Thr308 in group B was significantly lower than in group A (Akt 0.41 ± 0.16 vs 1.12 ± 0.77, P = 0.008; p-Akt-Thr308 0.47 ± 0.19 vs 0.82 ± 0.45, P = 0.036) and the control group (Akt 0.41 ± 0.16 vs 1.03 ± 0.53, P = 0.018;p-Akt-Thr308 0.47 ± 0.19 vs 0.92 ± 0.38, P = 0.010).The expression level of p-Akt-Ser473 in group A was significantly higher than in group B (1.48 ± 0.50 vs 0.81± 0.39, P = 0.041) as well as the control group (1.48 ± 0.50 vs 0.45 ± 0.26, P = 0.003).CONCLUSION: TRB3 blocks insulin signaling by inhibiting Akt activation, which contributes to insulin resistance. It may be an important factor in the occurrence and development of NAFLD.
文摘AIM: To investigate in vitro and in vivo therapeutic effects of histone deacetylase inhibitors NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 on biliary tract cancer. METHODS: Cell growth inhibition by NVP-LAQ824 and NVP-LBH589 was studied in vitro in 7 human biliary tract cancer cell lines by MTT assay. In addition, the antitumoral effect of NVP-LBH589 was studied in a chimeric mouse model. Anti-tumoral drug mechanism was assessed by immunoblotting for acH4 and p21^WAFl/CIP-1, PARP assay, cell cycle analysis, TUNEL assay, and immunhistochemistry for MIB-1. RESULTS: In vitro treatment with both compounds significantly suppressed the growth of all cancer cell lines [mean IC50 (3 d) 0.11 and 0.05 μmol/L, respectively], and was associated with hyperacetylation of nucleosomal histone H4, increased expression of p21^WAF-1/CIP-1, induction of apoptosis (PARP cleavage), and cell cycle arrest at G2/M checkpoint. After 28 d, NVP- LBH589 significantly reduced tumor mass by 66% (bile duct cancer) and 87% (gallbladder cancer) in vivo in comparison to placebo, and potentiated the efficacy of gemcitabine. Further analysis of the tumor specimens revealed increased apoptosis by TUNEL assay and reduced cell proliferation (MIB-1). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that NVP-LBH589 and NVP-LAQ824 are active against human biliary tract cancer in vitro. In addition, NVP-LBH589 demonstrated significant in vivo activity and potentiated the efficacy of gemcitabine. Therefore, further clinical evaluation of this new drug for the treatment of biliary tract cancer is recommended.
文摘Anxiety is one of the psychological problems in pregnant women that sometimes takes the form of pathological and affects the mental health of mother. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of fetal movement counting on mental health of mother. In a randomized-controlled trial, 208 nulliparous women were randomly divided into two groups. At 28th weeks, both groups completed the GHQ-28. Then the intervention group started to count fetal movements from 28th to 37th weeks of gestation and the control group received routine prenatal care. Again, both groups completed the questionnaire at 37 weeks' gestation and the results were compared. Analysis was performed by SPSS and a P value 〈 0.05 was considered significant. The mean scores of mental health of mothers in 28th and 37th of pregnancy was respectively 23.52 ± 10.23 and 21.09 ± 10.12 in the intervention group and the difference was significant (P = 0.025). The mean in the control group was 23.69 ± 9.43 and 23.88± 8.60 respectively, and the difference was not significant (P = 0.52). In comparing the mean scores between the two groups, it was found that the difference was not significant at 28th weeks of gestation (P = 0.37), but it was significant in 37th week (P = 0.002) and the counting of fetal movements could improve the mental health of mothers compared to control group. The women who had fetal movements counting at weeks 28 to 37 Of gestation reported better mental health than the control group. The mother renorted concerns about decreased fetal movement was similar in the two grouns.
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of vitamin supplements on homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease. METHODS: Vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, and fasting plasma homocysteine levels were measured in 51 consecutive adults with celiac disease [median (range) age 56 (18-63) years; 40% men, 26 (51%) had villous atrophy, and 25 (49%) used B-vitamin supplements] and 50 healthy control individuals matched for age and sex. Finally, the C677T polymorphism of 5,10-methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) was evaluated in 46 patients with celiac disease and all control individuals. RESULTS: Patients with celiac disease and using vitamin supplements had higher serum vitamin B6 (P = 0.003),folate (P < 0.001), and vitamin B12 (P = 0.012) levels than patients who did not or healthy controls (P = 0.035, P < 0.001, P = 0.007, for vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin B12, respectively). Lower plasma homocysteine levels were found in patients using vitamin supplements than in patients who did not (P = 0.001) or healthy controls (P = 0.003). However, vitamin B6 and folate, not vitamin B12, were significantly and independently associated with homocysteine levels. Twenty-four (48%) of 50 controls and 23 (50%) of 46 patients with celiac disease carried the MTHFR thermolabile variant T-allele (P = 0.89). CONCLUSION: Homocysteine levels are dependent on Marsh classification and the regular use of B-vitamin supplements is effective in reduction of homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease and should be considered in disease management.
基金supported by the Sciences of Learning Strategic Research Theme of the University of Hong Kong
文摘Background: A positive association between fundamental movement skills (FMS) and physical activity (PA) has been shown in previous research of children with and without disability. This pilot study explored a causal mechanism for such relationship, and hypothesized that when FMS proficiency is improved, enhanced PA uptake will be found in children with and without disability. It was further hypothesized that improving FMS proficiency will have a greater impact on children with disability than those without disability. Methods: Participants include typically developing (TD) children without disability and children with cerebral palsy (CP), who were allocated to FMS training groups (CP-FMS n = 12, TD-FMS n = 13) and control groups (CP-C n = 12, TD-C n = 13). Training groups practiced five FMS (run, jump, kick, throw, catch) in weekly 45-min sessions for 4 weeks. Control groups had their regular physiotherapy (CP) or physical education (TD) sessions. FMS were evaluated using process- and product-oriented measures, and PA was measured using accelerometers, before and after training. Results: It was verified that training groups gained improvements in FMS while control groups did not. No significant changes in weekday PA were found. Increased weekend moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was found in the CP-FMS group, while decreased weekend sedentary time was found in the CP-FMS and TD-FMS groups. The percentages of participants who exceeded the minimum detectable change (MDC9o) in MVPA and sedentary time were larger in children with CP than in children without disability. Conclusion: The findings suggest that improved FMS proficiency could potentially contribute to heightened PA and decreased sedentary time during weekends for children. Such effect of improved FMS proficiency on PA appears to be greater in those with physical disability than in those without disability. It is recommended that the findings of this pilot study should be further examined in future research.