Deficient Diet Research Articles

Naltriben promotes tumor growth by activating the TRPM7-mediated development of the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype

Macrophage plasticity is critical for maintaining immune function and developing solid tumors; however, the macrophage polarization mechanism remains incompletely understood. Our findings reveal that Mg2+ entry through distinct plasma membrane channels is critical to macrophage plasticity. Naïve macrophages displayed a previously unidentified Mg2+ dependent current, and TRPM7-like activity, which modulates its survival. Significantly, in M1 macrophages, Mg2+ entry is facilitated by a novel Mg²-dependent current that relies on extracellular Mg2+, which was crucial for activating iNOS/NFκB pathways and cellular bioenergetics, which drives pro-inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, in M2 macrophages, Mg2+ entry occurs primarily through TRPM7 channels, pivotal for IL-4 and IL-10-mediated anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion. Notably, the Mg2+ deficient diet or addition of TRPM7 agonist Naltriben suppresses the M1 phenotype while promoting angiogenic factors and fostering tumor growth. These findings suggest that Mg2+ flux via specific channels is indispensable for macrophage polarization, with its dysregulation playing a pivotal role in tumor progression.

Fucoidan alleviated colitis aggravated by fiber deficiency through protecting the gut barrier, suppressing the MAPK/NF-κB pathway, and modulating gut microbiota and metabolites

Insufficient dietary fiber intake has become a global public health issue, affecting the development and management of various diseases, including intestinal diseases and obesity. This study showed that dietary fiber deficiency enhanced the susceptibility of mice to colitis, which could be attributed to the disruption of the gut barrier integrity, activation of the NF-κB pathway, and oxidative stress. Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan (UPF) alleviated colitis symptoms in mice that fed with a fiber deficient diet (FD), characterized by increased weight gain and reduced disease activity index, liver and spleen indexes, and histological score. The protective effect of UPF against FD-exacerbated colitis can be attributed to the alleviation of oxidative stress, the preservation of the gut barrier integrity, and inhibition of the MAPK/NF-κB pathway. UPF ameliorated the gut microbiota composition, leading to increased microbiota richness, as well as increased levels of Muribaculaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Bifidobacterium and reduced levels of Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Bacteroides. Metabolomics analysis revealed that UPF improved the profile of microbiota metabolites, with increased levels of carnitine and taurine and decreased levels of tyrosine and deoxycholic acid. This study suggests that UPF has the potential to be developed as a novel prebiotic agent to enhance human health.

Burden and trends of dietary iron deficiency in the Middle East and North Africa region, 1990–2021

Burden and trends of dietary iron deficiency in the Middle East and North Africa region, 1990–2021

Socio-economic inequality in the nutritional deficiencies among the world countries: evidence from global burden of disease study 2019

BackgroundSocioeconomic inequality in nutritional status as one of the main social determinants of health can lead to inequality in health outcomes. In the present study, the socioeconomic inequality in the burden of nutritional deficiencies among the countries of the world using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data was investigated.MethodsBurden data of nutritional deficiencies and its subsets including protein-energy malnutrition, iodine deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, and dietary iron deficiency form GBD study and Human Development Index (HDI), a proxy for the socio-economic status of countries, from united nations database were collected. After descriptive statistics, the concentration index (CI) curve was used to measure socioeconomic inequality. CI for nutritional deficiencies was estimated based on Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY), Years Lived with Disability (YLD), Years of Life Lost (YLL), prevalence, incidence and death indices. Moreover, CI of DALY and prevalence was estimated and reported for four nutritional deficiencies subgroups.ResultsCIs for DALY, YLD, YLL, prevalence, incidence and death rate show negative values and their, which indicates the concentration of nutritional deficiencies burden among lower HDI countries. The highest value of CI (lowest inequality) for DALY was related to iodine deficiency (-0.3401) and the lowest (highest inequality) was related to vitamin A deficiency (-0.5884). Also, the highest value of CI for prevalence was related to protein-energy malnutrition (-0.1403) and the lowest was related to vitamin A deficiency (-0.4308). Results also show the inequality in DALY was greater than the disparity in prevalence for all subgroups of nutritional deficiencies.ConclusionsInequality in burden of nutritional deficiencies and protein-energy malnutrition, iodine deficiency, vitamin A deficiency and dietary iron deficiency are concentrated in countries with low HDI, so there is pro- poor inequality. Findings indicate that although malnutrition occurs more in low-income countries, due to the weakness of health care systems in these countries, the inequality in the final consequences of malnutrition such as DALY becomes much deeper. More attention should be paid to the development of prevention and primary treatment measures in low HDI countries, such as improving nutrition-related health education, nutritional support and early aggressive treatment, and also eliminating hunger.

Green Starch Modification Using Citric Acid: Quinoa, Chickpea, and Cassava Starches.

Dietary fibre deficiency has been associated with various global health challenges. Starch, as a main component of many staple foods, is typically very low in fibre content. The primary aim of this research was to increase the dietary fibre and alter the physicochemical properties of some common and emerging starches (cassava, quinoa, and chickpea starch) using eco-friendly modifications. Citric acid, a safe, natural, and environmentally friendly cross-linking agent, was employed for this purpose. Starch samples were treated with 30% citric acid and dry-heated at 130 °C for 5 h. This process resulted in relatively high degrees of substitution: 0.124 for cassava, 0.117 for quinoa, and 0.112 for chickpea starches. The modification successfully produced rich sources of dietary fibre suitable for food applications. It also reduced water interactions, pasting properties, and crystallinity. The highest reduction in swelling power and solubility was observed in quinoa starch (-67.34% and -82.10%, respectively), while the lowest values were obtained for cassava starch (-35.39% and -44.22%). All starches retained their granular integrity; however, they lost birefringence and Maltese crosses and showed some erosions on the granule surfaces. The citrate starches produced in this research offer thermally stable starch suitable for various food applications.

Ponatinib alleviates non-alcoholic steatohepatitis through TFEB-mediated autophagy.

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a progressive liver disease with lipid accumulation, inflammation, and liver fibrosis. Ponatinib, a third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, was found to improve metabolic disorders in mice. However, the role of ponatinib in liver inflammation and fibrosis remains to be elucidated. Here we aimed to determine the effect of ponatinib in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. We explored the function and mechanism of ponatinib using a mouse model of NASH induced by a methionine and choline deficient (MCD) diet and LO2 cells cultured in MCD mimic medium. Here, we found that ponatinib reduced liver lipid deposition, fibrosis, and inflammation induced by MCD diet without affecting body weight and blood glucose. Meanwhile, we found that ponatinib attenuated steatohepatitis and inflammation in LO2 cells induced by MCD mimic medium. We further discovered that the expression levels of LC3II and lysosomal associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) were reduced and the expression level of p62 was upregulated in both mouse and cell models, suggesting that autophagy was inhibited, which was restored by ponatinib treatment. In addition, transcription factor EB (TFEB) is a major regulator of autophagy and lysosome biogenesis and the transcription and protein expression levels of TFEB were decreased in steatosis hepatocytes, which could be ameliorated by ponatinib treatment. These results revealed that the beneficial effects of ponatinib on NASH via TFEB-mediated autophagy.

Iron deficiency anemia and diet therapy: review of theoretical aspects and practical background

Iron deficiency anemia and diet therapy: review of theoretical aspects and practical background

Actichinone, a new ursane triterpenoid from Actinidia chinensis roots, ameliorates NAFLD via the AMPK and NF-κB pathways.

A new ursane triterpenoid, actichinone (3-oxo-2α,24-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid, 1), was isolated from the roots of a kiwi plant Actinidia chinensis Planch, together with 18 known triterpenoids (2-19). The structure of actichinone (1) was established by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Actichinone (1) showed the most potent lipid-lowering activity in the oleic acid (OA)-induced primary mouse hepatocytes and the structure-activity relationships (SARs) were analyzed. Chemical semi-synthesis of actichinone (1) was achieved by selective oxidation of the major compound 2. Actichinone (1) exhibited significant alleviation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a high-fat with methionine and choline deficiency diet (HFMCD)-fed mice model, by regulating lipid accumulation and inflammatory response probably via the AMPK/SREBP-1c/PPAR-α and IKK/IκB/NF-κB signaling pathways. This study provides a promising lead compound and a new insight into the development of novel anti-NAFLD agents based on the pentacyclic triterpenoid family, and is expected to promote the high value-added comprehensive application of the A. chinensis plants.

Evaluation of Poor Eating Habits among Children Aged 3-16 Years in Schools

In recent years, medical science has achieved significant advancements, yet nutrition remains a critical field with immense potential. Nutrition science, once underappreciated, gained recognition after global studies highlighted its vital role in combating health challenges. Today, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) surpassing communicable diseases in prevalence, nutrition-based interventions are crucial. The global response includes initiatives by organizations like WHO, FAO, and UNICEF, which invest billions in programs such as food fortification and nutrition education. According to 2020 Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates, 149.2 million children under five were stunted, 45.4 million wasted, and 38.9 million overweight. COVID-19 exacerbated nutrition challenges, especially in South Asia, where awareness is limited. The pandemic underscored the link between nutrition and immunity, prompting renewed focus on dietary interventions. In Pakistan, malnutrition, stunting, and anemia remain prevalent. Our study examines the factors driving poor nutrition, focusing on the eating habits of children aged 3–16 in Peer-Mahil, District Toba Tek Singh, Punjab. Collaborating with NutriBites, we surveyed 500 children (255 boys, 245 girls) using anthropometric measurements, clinical assessments, questionnaires, and discussions. Data was analyzed via SPSS, revealing significant trends in dietary behaviors and nutritional deficiencies. This report highlights the urgent need for multidimensional public nutrition policies to address these issues and improve child health outcomes in Pakistan.

INFLUENCE OF DIETARY INCORPORATION OF MORINGA (MORINGA OLEIFERA) LEAF MEAL IN DIETS OF BROILER CHICKENS ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS

Consuming enough high-quality protein is essential for a long and healthy life. Because of their high-quality protein content, broiler chickens are a valuable food source that can support optimum growth and development and assist in address dietary deficiencies in Nigeria. The experiment was carried out at Adamawa State University Teaching and Research Farm, Mubi to evaluate the effects of diets containing varying levels of moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf meal (MoLM) on growth performance and cost benefits fed to broiler chickens. The broiler chicks were purchased and maintained on a deep-litter system throughout the study. Fresh Moringa oleifera leaves were shed-dried and pulverised into fine particles. The powder was incorporated into the diets at 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 g/kg denoted as control, 0.5MoLM, 1MoLM, 1.5MoLM and 2MoLM, respectively. The birds were randomly allotted to the different diets in a completely randomised design. Data collected during the study were: weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and the cost benefits of feeding MoLM-based diets. Significant (p<0.05) results were observed for most growth performance parameters. Weight gain and feed intake were high in the control followed by 2MoLM (1023.00 and 2825.80 g, respectively). The FCR was least for 1.5MoLM (2.37) compared to the control diet. The 1.5MoLM ensured a higher cost saving amongst the other diets. Mortality was reduced with increased levels of MoLM. It can therefore be agreed from this study that the inclusion of 1.5 g/kg MoLM in broiler chicken diets promoted better feed efficiency and more cost saving.

Gastrointestinal and colonic bioaccessibility of calcium and ferulic acid from microcapsules made with brewer spent grain arabinoxylans.

Three microcapsule formulations with 2.7, 5.5 and 10.9 g calcium 100 g solids-1 (C1, C2, and C3, respectively) were developed using brewer spent grain arabinoxylan concentrate as wall material. The intestinal and colonic bioaccessibility of calcium and phenolic compounds were determined after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The level of calcium and the formation of Ca:AX complexes mediated by electrostatic interactions contributed to the construction of the microcapsule wall. It was observed that the higher calcium content increased the total calcium bioaccessibility (27.0 ± 2.4, 29.8 ± 0.2, 37.1 ± 1.0 % for C1, C2, and C3, respectively). However, the calcium level of the microcapsules decreased the total bioaccessibility of the phenolic compounds from 45 to 27 % for ferulic acid, and from 90 to 66 % for p-coumaric acid for C1 and C3, respectively. Also, the secondary metabolites of these phenolics were detected in the colonic fractions. Suitable microcapsules intendant for the supplementation of people with a calcium deficient diet, with the supply of fermentable fibres and phenolic compounds were developed.

Effect of the modified NUTRIC score in predicting the prognosis of patients admitted to intensive care units.

Nutritional deficiency is common in critically ill hospitalized patients. This condition may be aggravated by increased dietary requirements and deficiencies in nutrient absorption. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between the modified Nutritional Risk in Critically ill (mNUTRIC) score and mortality and morbidity in patients with sepsis. In this prospective observational study, 78 patients with sepsis were enrolled in the general intensive care unit over a 3-month period. Demographic and clinical data and laboratory results were recorded and followed up. The nutrition of each patient was started by the nutrition team, and a modified score (mNUTRIC) was calculated. This score was used to assess the patients' nutritional status and mortality risk. The mean age of the patients was 77.2 ± 9.9 years, and the majority were men. The median mNUTRIC score was 6. The cohort was divided into two groups: 31 patients (39.7%) with low scores and 47 patients (60.3%) with high mNUTRIC scores. A high mNUTRIC score was associated with an increased need for vasoactive drugs (p < 0.001) and mechanical ventilation (p < 0.001), as well as increased acute kidney injury (p = 0.014) and prolonged hospital stay (p < 0.001) during ICU follow-up. The mNUTRIC score showed high accuracy in predicting mortality (p < 0.001). In this study, to predict the prognosis of patients with sepsis in the ICU, the mNUTRIC score was associated with mortality. The inclusion of nutritional assessment scoring tools in the routine clinical evaluation of ICU patients is important.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW ON SYNTHETIC AND HERBAL MEDICATIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF ALOPECIA

Alopecia refers to the scientific word for diminished hair growth or balding. It describes a disease in which hairs falls off from one or more parts of your body, most commonly the scalp. Losing your hair might be triggered by a variety of factors, including hereditary traits, external factors, chemical exposure, medication, dietary insufficiency, chronic tension, or prolonged sickness, among others. Alopecia is categorized into different types depending upon its pattern of diminished hair growth and its genesis. The pursuit of effective treatments has led to the exploration of both synthetic and herbal medications. This study examines the performance, mechanisms of action, tolerability profiles, and limits of synthetic and herbal remedies for alopecia. Synthetic medications such as minoxidil and finasteride are commonly prescribed and have demonstrated varying degrees of success in clinical trials. However, concerns regarding adverse effects and long-term efficacy persist. Conversely, herbal medications, including saw palmetto, ginseng, and pumpkin seed oil, have gained popularity due to their perceived natural origin and potentially fewer side effects. Nevertheless, the scientific evidence supporting their efficacy remains limited and often inconclusive. Additionally, challenges in standardization and regulation pose significant barriers to the widespread adoption of herbal treatments. This study aims to provide healthcare professionals and patients with a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of synthetic and herbal medications for alopecia, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate their therapeutic potential and optimize patient outcomes.

BPA Exacerbates Zinc Deficiency-Induced Testicular Tissue Inflammation in Male Mice Through the TNF-α/NF-κB/Caspase8 Signaling Pathway.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that is toxic to reproduction. Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in male reproductive health. Zn deficiency (ZD) can co-exist with BPA. In order to investigate the specific mechanism of reproductive damage caused by BPA exposure in ZD male mice, a mouse model of ZD, BPA exposure, and their combined exposure was established in this study. Forty 4-week-old SPF male ICR mice with an average body weight of 31.7 ± 4.2g were divided into four groups including normal Zn diet group 30mg/(kg•d), BPA exposure group 150mg/(kg•d), zinc deficiency diet group 7.5mg/(kg•d), and BPA + ZD combined exposure group (BPA 150mg/(kg•d) + ZD 7.5mg/(kg•d)). The mice were kept for 8weeks. The results showed that the testicular tissue structure was disturbed, and semen quality, serum Zn, testicular tissue Zn, and testicular tissue free Zn ions were decreased in the BPA-exposed and ZD groups. The expression of zinc transporters (ZIP7, ZIP8, ZIP13, and ZIP14) in testicular tissue was changed. The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β as well as inflammatory pathway-related proteins (IKB-α, p-IKB-α, NF-κB, p-NF-κB, Caspase8, and Caspase3) were increased, while the expressions of anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10) were decreased. The changes in the above indexes in the BPA + ZD group were more obvious. Both BPA exposure and ZD can induce testicular tissue inflammation through the TNF-α/NF-κB/Caspase8 signaling pathway, and BPA further aggravates zinc deficiency-induced testicular tissue inflammation and apoptosis damage.

IDENTIFYING THE CLUSTER OF FAMILIES AT RISK OF STUNTING IN YOGYAKARTA USING HIERARCHICAL AND NON-HIERARCHICAL APPROACH

Stunting, or short stature, is a growth disorder usually caused by chronic dietary deficiencies from the prenatal stage to early childhood, typically becoming evident in children after the age of 2. Stunting cases in Yogyakarta Province experienced a decline in 2020. With this development, the government aims to achieve zero stunting in Yogyakarta Province by 2024. To support this goal, a research study was conducted in 2021 to analyze family factors associated with stunting risks in Yogyakarta Province. The study aimed to assist the government in addressing the issue and achieving the target. In this research, a hierarchical clustering algorithm using the Ward technique and a non-hierarchical clustering algorithm using the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) approach were applied. The optimal number of clusters was determined using the average distance and figure of merit approach. Stability validation, which also used the average distance and figure of merit approach, demonstrated that the best results were achieved by the non-hierarchical clustering algorithm employing FCM. As a result, six clusters were identified: cluster 1 with 5 sub-districts, cluster 2 with 18 sub-districts, cluster 3 with 21 sub-districts, cluster 4 with 17 sub-districts, cluster 5 with 14 sub-districts, and cluster 6 with 3 sub-districts.

Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating the Effects of the Daily Consumption of Ruminant Milk on Digestive Comfort and Nutrition in Older Women: The YUMMI Study.

Age-related changes can lead to dietary insufficiency in older adults. The inclusion of high-quality, nutrient-dense foods such as ruminant milks can significantly improve health outcomes. However, many older adults worldwide do not meet daily milk intake recommendations because of digestive discomfort and health concerns. Ovine and caprine milks are increasingly popular for their perceived digestive and nutritional benefits. While preclinical studies suggest differences in milk digestion, human studies investigating acute postprandial responses remain inconclusive, and the impacts of sustained milk consumption remain uncertain. Hence, we present a randomized controlled trial investigating how the sustained consumption of bovine, caprine, or ovine milk influences digestion, nutrition, and metabolism in older women. A total of 165 healthy older women were randomized to receive bovine, caprine, or ovine milk, or no milk, twice daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is the impact of milk consumption on digestive comfort assessed via the Gastrointestinal Syndrome Rating Scale (GSRS). Secondary outcomes include changes in nutrient intake, plasma amino acid and lipid appearance, bowel habits, the gut microbiota, cardiometabolic health, physical function, physical activity, sleep, mood, sensory perception, and emotional response. The findings could inform dietary recommendations for older women and facilitate the development of targeted functional food products.

Proteomics analysis in rats reveals convergent mechanisms between major depressive disorder and dietary zinc deficiency

BackgroundPreclinical and clinical studies have shown that dietary zinc deficiency can lead to symptoms similar to those observed in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To investigate these mechanisms, we examined proteomic changes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HP) of rats, two critical brain regions implicated in the pathophysiology of depression.MethodsRats were fed diets either adequate in zinc (ZnA, 50 mg Zn/kg) or deficient in zinc (ZnD, <3 mg/kg) for four weeks. High-throughput proteomic analysis was used to detect changes in protein expression, supplemented by enzyme activity assay for mitochondrial complexes I and IV, examining their functional impacts.ResultsZnD led to significant alterations in protein expression related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function. Proteomic analysis revealed changes in zinc transporter family members such as Slc30a1 (6.64 log2FC), Slc30a3 (-2.32 log2FC), Slc30a4 (2.87 log2FC), Slc30a5 (5.90 log2FC), Slc30a6 (1.50 log2FC), and Slc30a7 (2.17 log2FC) in the PFC, and Slc30a3 (-1.02 log2FC), Slc30a5 (-1.04 log2FC), and Slc30a7 (1.08 log2FC) in the HP of rats subjected to ZnD. Furthermore, ZnD significantly affected essential mitochondrial activity proteins, including Atp5pb (3.25 log2FC), Cox2 (2.28 log2FC), Atp5me (2.04 log2FC), Cyc1 (2.30 log2FC), Cox4i1 (1.23 log2FC), Cox7c (1.63 log2FC), and Cisd1 (1.55 log2FC), with a pronounced decrease in complex I activity in the PFC.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that ZnD leads to significant proteomic changes in the PFC and HP of rats. Specifically, ZnD alters the expression of zinc transporter proteins and proteins critical for mitochondrial function. The significant decrease in complex I activity in the PFC further underscores the impact of ZnD on mitochondrial function. These results highlight the molecular mechanisms by which ZnD can influence brain function and contribute to symptoms similar to those observed in depression.

To Study the Iodine Concentration of Mothers’ Consumed Salt, Water, and Staple Food in the Neonatal Screening Program of Rural and Urban Vidarbha Region

ABSTRACT Background: This study aimed to examine the iodine concentration in the food items consumed by mothers participating in neonatal screening programs in both areas of the Vidarbha region. A developing fetus relies on a consistent supply of iodine for proper brain and body development. During pregnancy, only the mother can provide the necessary iodine levels. If the mother is iodine-deficient, the child will also lack this essential nutrient. Severe deficiency in the mother can lead to significant stunting of the child’s brain and body, potentially preventing normal walking, talking, or cognitive function. Even if the mother’s deficiency is mild, the child can still be adversely affected, even if they appear healthy at first glance. The detrimental effects on brain development may manifest later in life as poor academic performance and difficulties in managing daily tasks. Material and Method: The present cross-sectional research will be performed in collaboration with the Departments of Biochemistry, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Community Medicine, and Pediatrics at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Sawangi (Meghe) Wardha, along with Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Science (Deemed University) in Maharashtra, India. Mothers who gave birth agreed to participate by providing written consent for the study. Results: The average iodine concentrations are quite similar across all sources, though hand pumps show slightly more variability. Different staple foods contain varying levels of iodine, with some foods (like pulses) exhibiting a lot of variation, while others (like rice and potatoes) are more consistent in their iodine content. Conclusion: The current study is a hospital-based investigation aimed at screening neonates for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and does not reflect the broader population. To identify CH, screening of neonates will be conducted within the study area, providing a representative view of the condition. The clinical and pathological effects of CH are subtle and often remain unnoticed. Our findings suggest that the prevalence of iodine reflects dietary quality, educational background, and socioeconomic status, all of which can influence growth and development. There are various factors contributing to CH and inadequate fetal growth beyond low iodine levels, which can disrupt thyroid function. The study indicates that iodine levels are indicative of dietary quality as well as educational and social statuses, potentially impacting growth and development through both dietary deficiencies and other factors.

Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Neonatal Birth Outcomes.

Aims/Background The purpose of this study is to investigate the risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during pregnancy and its impact on neonatal birth outcomes. Methods A total of 2010 cases of mothers with GDM who underwent routine prenatal examinations and delivered at The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang from June 2021 to April 2022, and their newborns were selected as the GDM group. For comparison, 2087 cases of mothers with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and their newborns during the same period were selected as the NGT group. Birth outcomes of both groups were compared. Results Pregnant women in the GDM group exhibited significantly higher proportions of advanced age, higher body mass index (BMI), and irregular dietary habits compared to the NGT group (p < 0.05). Conversely, the GDM group had significantly lower proportions of nutrient supplementation and prenatal exercise compared to the NGT group (p < 0.05). The incidences of macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) were significantly higher in the GDM group compared to the NGT group (p < 0.05 for all). Among GDM women with adverse outcomes, significant differences were observed in pre-pregnancy BMI, insufficient or excessive weight gain during pregnancy, and poor glycemic control during pregnancy compared to those without adverse outcomes (p < 0.05 for all). Poor glycemic control during pregnancy, pre-pregnancy BMI, and inadequate or excessive weight gain were significant factors influencing adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients (p < 0.05). Conclusion The risk factors for GDM include advanced maternal age, being underweight, overweight, or obese prior to pregnancy, irregular eating habits, dietary nutritional deficiencies, and lack of prenatal exercise. The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes is higher in GDM patients compared to those without GDM. Poor glycemic control during pregnancy and higher pre-pregnancy BMI are significant factors that contribute to negative outcomes for both GDM patients and their newborns.

Study on the molecular mechanisms of rifaximin in the treatment of non‑alcoholic steatohepatitis based on the Helicobacter‑DCA‑Fxr‑Hnf1α signalling pathway.

Non‑alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the more progressive form of non‑alcoholic fatty liver disease, has become a major cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti‑NASH effect of the nonabsorbable antibiotic rifaximin and its specific molecular mechanisms. A methionine‑choline deficient (MCD) diet was used to induce NASH formation in mice. The mice with NASH were treated with rifaximin to observe its effects on liver fat deposition, hepatocyte inflammation and liver fibrosis. Furthermore, the intestinal microbiota of mice with NASH was analysed by 16S rRNA sequencing and terminal ileal bile acid levels were assessed using liquid chromatography‑electrospray ionization‑tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Furthermore, the correlation between the intestinal microflora and bile acid levels in the terminal ileum was investigated, and the effects of rifaximin on the intestinal Helicobacter‑deoxycholic acid (DCA)‑farnesoid X receptor (Fxr)‑hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (Hnf1α) signalling pathway were examined. Moreover, analyses of mice after intestinal decontamination with broad‑spectrum antibiotics and of hepatocyte‑specific Hnf1α knockout (Hnf1αH‑KO) mice were used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which rifaximin improves NASH. Notably, treatment with rifaximin markedly ameliorated liver steatosis, hepatocyte inflammation and liver fibrosis in mice with MCD diet‑induced NASH. Rifaximin modulated the gut microbiota, especially Helicobacter hepaticus, in mice with NASH. In addition, rifaximin inhibited the intestinal Helicobacter‑DCA‑Fxr‑Hnf1α signalling pathway in mice with NASH. By contrast, rifaximin did not exert an anti‑NASH effect on decontamination‑treated mice or Hnf1αH‑KO mice. Taken together, these results indicated that rifaximin can ameliorate NASH in mice by modulating the Helicobacter‑DCA‑Fxr‑Hnf1α signalling pathway, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of patients with NASH with rifaximin.