Comparación de los métodos de Friedewald y Vujovic con la concentración de LDL calculada en un autoanalizador bioquímico / Comparison of the Friedewald and Vujovic methods with the calculated LDL concentration in a biochemical auto-analyzer

Objective To compare the concentration of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL-c) obtained using the Friedewald formula with those obtained directly with the RAYTO CHEMRAY 120 autoanalyzer. Methods Cross-sectional study. We evaluated outpatients with a medical request for a lipid profile study (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL). The analyses were carried out in a RAYTO CHEMRAY 120 autoanalyzer under the principle of spectrophotometry. We obtained LDL-c using the Friedewald and Vujovic formulas. Results We evaluated 199 individuals whose direct LDL concentration averages were measured by the RAYTO CHEMRAY 120 equipment. Those calculated by the Friedewald and Vujovic formulas were 129.97 ± 32.66, 119.28 ± 30.44, and 127.01 ± 32.01, respectively, and in all cases, significant differences (P < 0.001) were observed with the RAYTO analyzer. In both cases a low positive bias was found with the RAYTO analyzer.. The Passing-Bablok and Deming's regressions showed a linear correlation between both methods (Friedewald and Vujovic) with the LDL values obtained with the Rayto autoanalyzer. Conclusions Our study found that the Friedewald and Vujovic methods are good predictors of LDL cholesterol levels and have a low level of bias. Therefore, they could be used as potential predictors.

Objetivo Comparar las concentraciones de Lipoproteínas de Baja Densidad (LDL-c) obtenidas mediante la fórmula de Friedewald con las obtenidas directamente con el autoanalizador RAYTO CHEMRAY 120. Métodos Estudio transversal. Se evaluaron pacientes ambulatorios con solicitud médica de perfil lipídico (colesterol total, triglicéridos, LDL y HDL). Los análisis se realizaron con un autoanalizador RAYTO CHEMRAY 120 bajo el principio de espectrofotometría. Obtuvimos el LDL-c usando las fórmulas de Friedewald y Vujovic. Resultados Se evaluaron 199 individuos cuyos promedios directos de concentración de LDL fueron medidos con el equipo RAYTO CHEMRAY 120. Las concentraciones calculadas por las fórmulas de Friedewald y Vujovic fueron de 129,97 ± 32,66, 119,28 ± 30,44, y de 127,01 ± 32,01, respectivamente, y en todos los casos se observaron diferencias significativas (P < 0,001) con el analizador RAYTO. En ambos casos se encontró un sesgo positivo bajo en el analizador RAYTO. Las regresiones de Passing-Bablok y Deming mostraron una correlación lineal entre ambos métodos (Friedewald y Vujovic) con los valores de LDL obtenidos con el autoanalizador Rayto. Conclusión Nuestro estudio encontro que los métodos de Friedewald y Vujovic son buenos predictores de los niveles de colesterol LDL y presentan un nivel de sesgo bajo. Por lo que podrían usarse como potenciales predictores.

Study on Body Composition of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus by Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry: A Morphological Study

SUMMARY: Diabetes is a form of endocrine disease. Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) provides a detailed view of the body composition to find out what makes people with diabetes different from those with other diseases. We scanned 371 patients with DXA to analyze their body composition parameters. Three hundreds and seventy one patients (178 women/193 men), who with different diseases, with a mean±SD Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25.32±8.3 kg/m2 were included. The body composition of 371 patients was assessed. Bone Mineral Density (BMD), Fat Weight, Lean Weight, waist-to-hip ratio, Lean Mass Index (LMI), Fat Mass Index (FMI), the relationship between Fat percentage and BMI were analyzed. The 371 patients included 156 diabetics and 215 non-diabetics. Non-diabetic patients also included 5 obesity patients, 9 patients with fatty liver, 39 patients with hypertension, 22 patients with hyperlipidemia, 18 patients with cardiovascular disease, 11 patients with chest and lung disease, 4 patients with chronic disease, 14 patients with brain disease and 93 patients with other diseases. Among 156 diabetic patients, 129 had VAT > 100 cm2 and 27 had VAT ≤100 cm2. The lean weight (LW) of male diabetic patients was significantly higher than that of female diabetic patients. The fat weight (FW) of female patients with diabetes was significantly higher than that of male patients. The waist-hip ratio (WHR) was 1.37 ± 0.25 in male diabetic patients and 1.18 ± 0.21 in female diabetic patients. Among the 215 non-diabetic patients, the obese and fatty liver patients, which the weight (WT) (obesity: 83.87 ± 8.34 kg fat liver: 85.64±28.60 kg), FW (obesity: 28.56 ± 4.18 kg fat liver: 28.61 ± 10.79 kg), LW (obesity: 52.62 ± 9.64 kg fat liver: 54.29±17.58 kg), BMI (obesity: 28.76 ± 1.88 kg/m2 fat liver: 29.10 ± 5.95 kg/m2), was much higher than other patients. Diabetes patients had less fat mass than non- diabetic patients; the difference was around 2 kg. BMI is also a modest number. BMD doesn't differ all that much. Non-diabetic patients with fatty liver obesity and cardiovascular disease had higher fat mass and BMI than patients with other illnesses. Body composition can provide precise information on the makeup of different body areas, but further in-depth exams are required to ascertain the body's endocrine profile.

La diabetes es una enfermedad endocrina. La absorciometría de rayos X de energía dual (DXA) proporciona una vista detallada de la composición corporal para descubrir qué diferencia a las personas con diabetes de aquellas con otras enfermedades. Escaneamos a 371 pacientes con DXA para analizar sus parámetros de composición corporal. Se incluyeron 371 pacientes (178 mujeres/193 hombres), con diferentes enfermedades, con un Índice de Masa Corporal (IMC) medio ± DE de 25,32 ± 8,3 kg/m2. Se evaluó la composición corporal de 371 pacientes. Se analizaron la densidad mineral ósea (DMO), el peso graso, el peso magro, la relación cintura-cadera, el índice de masa magra (LMI), el índice de masa grasa (FMI), y la relación entre el porcentaje de grasa y el IMC. De los 371 pacientes 156 eran diabéticos y 215 no diabéticos. Los pacientes no diabéticos también incluyeron 5 con obesidad, 9 con hígado graso, 39 con hipertensión, 22 con hiperlipidemia, 18 con enfermedad cardiovascular, 11 con enfermedad torácica y pulmonar, 4 con enfermedad crónica, 14 con enfermedad cerebral y 93 pacientes con otras enfermedades. Entre los 156 pacientes diabéticos, 129 tenían un IVA > 100 cm2 y 27 tenían un IVA ≤100 cm2. El peso magro (PV) de los hombres diabéticos fue significativamente mayor que el de las mujeres diabéticas. El peso graso (FW) de las mujeres diabéticas fue significativamente mayor que el de los hombres diabéticos. El índice cintura-cadera (ICC) fue de 1,37 ± 0,25 en hombres diabéticos y de 1,18 ± 0,21 en mujeres diabéticas. Entre los 215 pacientes no diabéticos, los pacientes obesos y con hígado graso, cuyo peso (WT) (obesidad: 83,87 ± 8,34 kg hígado graso: 85,64 ± 28,60 kg), FW (obesidad: 28,56 ± 4,18 kg hígado graso: 28,61 ± 10,79 kg), PV (obesidad: 52,62 ± 9,64 kg, hígado graso: 54,29 ± 17,58 kg), IMC (obesidad: 28,76 ± 1,88 kg/m2, hígado graso: 29,10 ± 5,95 kg/m2), fue mucho mayor que otros pacientes. Los pacientes diabéticos tenían menos masa grasa que los pacientes no diabéticos; la diferencia fue de alrededor de 2 kg. La DMO no difiere mucho. Los pacientes no diabéticos con obesidad debido al hígado graso y enfermedades cardiovasculares tenían mayor masa grasa e IMC que los pacientes con otras enfermedades. La composición corporal puede proporcionar información precisa sobre la composición de diferentes áreas del cuerpo, pero se requieren exámenes más profundos para determinar el perfil endocrino del cuerpo.

Gasto energético en reposo y concentración sérica de lipoproteínas de baja densidad en adultos con hipotiroidismo subclínico leve

La alta prevalencia de hipotiroidismo subclínico en Chile puede deberse a que el límite superior normal de la hormona estimulante del tiroides (TSH) sérica es bajo. Personas con TSH levemente mayor al límite superior pueden ser metabólicamente similares a personas sanas. Se compararon marcadores de acción tiroidea (gasto energético en reposo [GER] y lipoproteína de baja densidad [LDL]) en adultos con hipotiroidismo subclínico leve y con función tiroidea normal con o sin tratamiento con levotiroxina. Se midió GER, perfil lipídico y tiroideo en personas sanas con función tiroidea normal (TSH ≥0,4-<4,5 µUI/ml; n=91); con hipotiroidismo subclínico leve (TSH ≥4,5-≤6,5 µUI/ml; n=5); y con hipotiroidismo clínico tratado con levotiroxina y TSH normal (n=13). Se analizó la LDL en 838 personas sanas con función tiroidea normal y 89 con hipotiroidismo subclínico leve de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016/17 (ENS). El GER, ajustado por peso, sexo y edad, fue similar entre grupos (p=0,71). La LDL fue similar entre personas con función tiroidea normal e hipotiroidismo subclínico leve (91±24 vs. 101±17 mg/dl; p=0,67), y menor en hipotiroidismo tratado (64±22 mg/dl; p<0,01). La LDL no se asoció con TSH pero si inversamente con T4L en mujeres (r=-0,33; p=0,02; n=53). En la ENS, ambos grupos tuvieron similar LDL (p=0,34), la que se asoció inversamente con T4L en mujeres (r=-0,12; p=0,01; n=569) pero no con TSH. Personas sanas con función tiroidea normal y con hipotiroidismo subclínico leve tienen similar GER y LDL. Esto apoya la idea de redefinir el límite superior normal de TSH.

The high prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in Chile may be due to the low normal upper limit of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). People with TSH slightly higher than the upper limit may be metabolically similar to healthy people. Thyroid action markers (resting energy expenditure [REE] and low-density lipoprotein [LDL]) were compared in adults with mild subclinical hypothyroidism and with normal thyroid function with or without levothyroxine treatment. REE, lipid and thyroid profile were measured in healthy people with normal thyroid function (TSH ≥0,4-<4,5 µUI/ml (n=91); with mild subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH ≥4,5-≤6 µUI/ml; n=5); and with clinical hypothyroidism treated with levothyroxine and normal TSH (n=13). LDL was analyzed in 838 healthy people with normal thyroid function and 89 with mild subclinical hypothyroidism from the 2016/17 National Health Survey (NHS). REE, adjusted for weight, sex and age, was similar between the groups (p=0,71). LDL was similar between people with normal thyroid function and mild subclinical hypothyroidism (91±24 vs. 101±17 mg/dl; p=0,67), and lower in treated hypothyroidism (64±22 mg/dl; p<0,01). LDL was not associated with TSH but was inversely with FT4 in women (r=-0,33; p=0,02; n=53). In the NHS, both groups had similar serum LDL (p=0,34), which was inversely associated with FT4 in women (r=-0,12; p=0,01; n=569), but not with TSH. Healthy people with normal thyroid function and mild subclinical hypothyroidism have similar REE and LDL. These results support the idea of redefining the normal upper limit of TSH.

Agregación masiva de la estrella de mar Luidia bellonae (Paxillosida: Luidiidae) en Bahía de Banderas, Jalisco, Pacífico Mexicano / Massive aggregation of sea star Luidia bellonae (Paxillosida: Luidiidae) in Bahía de Banderas, Jalisco, Mexican Pacific

Resumen Introducción: En el Pacífico central mexicano son escasos los trabajos sobre ecología de asteroideos. Estas especies generalmente se distribuyen de forma aleatoria, aunque en algunas ocasiones pueden encontrarse en grupos o agregaciones. En Los Arcos, al sur de Puerto Vallarta, en Bahía de Banderas, México, se observó Luidia bellonae por primera vez en una agregación masiva en 2021. Objetivo: Reportar por primera vez el registro de esta especie en esta región del Pacífico mexicano, así como el evento de agregación masiva. Métodos: Se realizaron transectos y recorridos para cuantificar la densidad y medir los ejemplares de la estrella en Los Arcos, Bahía de Banderas, durante 2021, 2022 y 2023. Resultados: Se encontraron densidades promedio de 2.65 ind/m2 y hasta 7 ind/m2. En total en el área aproximada de 900 m2 se registraron 630 individuos. Los ejemplares midieron (R) entre 2 y 12 cm, y en su mayoría midieron entre 4 y 8 cm. Conclusiones: L. bellonae estaba reportada en distintos sitios en algunos estados del Pacífico mexicano, sin embargo no estaba registrada para Bahía de Banderas ni Los Arcos, ni tampoco en la cantidad que se reporta aquí, por lo que este es el primer registro para la especie con una presencia masiva para el Pacífico mexicano. La aparición de la gran cantidad de ejemplares de L. bellonae en Los Arcos en 2021 pudo haber sido resultado de una combinación de factores, entre ellos la baja temperatura del agua, con valores hasta de 15 ºC y la alta cantidad de nutrientes. Este hallazgo demuestra la necesidad de más estudios sobre los equinodermos y especies marinas para entender la influencia que tienen las condiciones ambientales en su ciclo de vida.

Abstract Introduction: In the central Mexican Pacific, there are few studies on asteroid ecology. These species are generally distributed randomly, although in some cases groups or aggregations can be found. In Los Arcos, south of Puerto Vallarta, in Bahía de Banderas, Mexico, Luidia bellonae was observed for the first time in a massive aggregation in 2021. Objective: To report the new record of this species in this region of the Mexican Pacific and its massive aggregation event. Methods: Transects and surveys were carried out to quantify the density and measure the sea star individuals in Los Arcos, Bahía de Banderas during 2021, 2022, and 2023. Results: Average densities of 2.65 ind/m2 and up to 7 ind/m2 were found. In total, in the approximate area of 900 m2, 630 individuals were registered. The specimens measured (R) between 2 and 12 cm, and most measured between 4 and 8 cm. Conclusions: L. bellonae has been reported in different places in some states of the Mexican Pacific; however, it was not registered for Bahía de Banderas nor Los Arcos, nor in the amount reported here, therefore this is the first record for the species with a massive presence for the Mexican Pacific. The appearance of the large number of L. bellonae specimens in Los Arcos in 2021 could have been the result of a combination of factors, including the low water temperature, with values up to 15 ºC, and the high amount of nutrients. This finding demonstrates the need for more studies on echinoderms and marine species to understand the influence of environmental conditions on their life cycle.

Abundancia, densidad y estructura de tallas de Mellitella stokesii (Echinolampadacea: Mellitidae) en playones del estero El Tamarindo, El Salvador / Abundance, density and size structure of Mellitella stokesii (Echinolampadacea: Mellitidae) in sandbanks of El Tamarindo estuary, El Salvador

Resumen Introducción: Los equinoideos irregulares se caracterizan por tener una selección del sustrato en fondos blandos principalmente. En El Salvador se han registrado siete especies de equinoideos irregulares en las principales playas arenosas del país, M. stokesii es una de ellas. Objetivo: Determinar la abundancia, densidad y estructura de tallas, en playones de la bocana del estero El Tamarindo, El Salvador. Métodos: La investigación se realizó en época seca en el oriente del país en playones del estero El Tamarindo que se caracteriza por presentar grandes extensiones de arena mezclada con materia orgánica. En cada sitio, se trazaron transectos en banda paralelos a la costa mediante 9 cuadrantes de 10 m2 separados entre sí por 10 m (área total de 90 m2), en donde se contabilizaron y midieron los individuos de M. stokesii que se encontraran dentro del área delimitada. Resultados: Se contabilizaron 958 individuos de M. stokesii con una densidad total de 10.64 ± 13.22 ind/m2. El rango de tamaños fue de 1-6.5 cm. El hábitat se caracterizó por presentar arena con materia orgánica en los primeros mm del sustrato en compañía de otros invertebrados. Conclusiones: La abundancia y densidad de M. stokesii es similar a la registrada en otros estudios de la región.

Abstract Introduction: Irregular echinoids are characterized by having a selection of the substrate mainly on soft bottoms. In El Salvador, seven species of irregular echinoids have been recorded on the main sandy beaches of the country, M. stokesii is one of them. Objective: Determine the abundance, density and size structure of M. stokesii on beaches at the mouth of the El Tamarindo estuary, El Salvador. Methods: The research was carried out in the dry season in the east of the country on the beaches of the El Tamarindo estuary, which is characterized by large extensions of sand mixed with organic matter. At each site, band transects parallel to the coast were plotted by 9 quadrants of 10 m2 separated from each other by 10 m (total area of 90 m2), where individuals of M. stokesii found within the delimited area were counted and measured. Results: 958 individuals of M. stokesii were counted with a total density of 10.64 ± 13.22 ind/m2. The size range was 1-6.5 cm. The habitat was characterized by presenting sand with organic matter in the first mm of the substrate in the company of other invertebrates. Conclusions: The abundance and density of M. stokesii are similar to the ones recorded in other studies in the region.

Preliminary study of the population and reproductive dynamics of Echinaster sepositus (Spinulosida: Echinasteridae) in Cala del Racó / Estudio preliminar de la población y dinámica reproductiva de Echinaster sepositus (Spinulosida: Echinasteridae) en Cala del Racó

Abstract Introduction: The red starfish (Echinaster sepositus) is one of the most common asteroid species in the Mediterranean Sea. However, information about their biology or their role in benthic communities is scarce. Objective: This study aims to provide new information on the ecology of this species through the temporal characterization of the population of E. sepositus in Cala del Racó (Alicante, Spain) and the in situ monitoring of its reproductive cycle. Methods: For this purpose, three study areas were established at different depths. For each of the recorded starfish, data about the size, the substrate on which it was found, the area, the depth and the sex in the case of observing the reproduction were collected. Results: A total of 19 samplings have been carried out throughout a year of study. In this way, it has been possible to observe that the density of individuals increases in the shallower zone during autumn and winter, when the temperature drops to 14.13 ºC, while it decreases in spring and summer when the temperature rises to 27.17 ºC. Those results are reversed in the deepest part of the study. The highest density of individuals (0.51 ind/m2) occurred in October. Arborescent photophilic algae and crustose coralline algae were the substrates with the highest number of E. sepositus recorded. Medium to large specimens are located preferably on crustose coralline algae or arborescent photophilic algae, while smaller individuals were mostly located on Posidonia oceanica. No specimens of E. sepositus were observed spawning. Conclusions: Data leads to assume that there is a migration of starfishes towards more superficial areas when the water is at colder temperature and towards deeper areas when the temperature increases. It is valued the possibility that there is a change in the nutritional needs of E. sepositus throughout its development. According to our observations, the future reproduction studies should be concentrated between late-summer and early-autumn.

Resumen Introducción: La estrella de mar roja (Echinaster sepositus) es una de las especies de asteroideos más comunes del mar Mediterráneo. Sin embargo, la información sobre su biología o su papel en las comunidades bentónicas es escasa. Objetivo: Este estudio pretende aportar nueva información sobre la ecología de esta especie mediante la caracterización temporal de la población de E. sepositus en la Cala del Racó (Alicante, España) y el monitoreo in situ de su ciclo reproductivo. Métodos: Con este fin se establecieron tres zonas de estudio a distintas profundidades. Para cada una de las estrellas registradas se tomaron datos de tamaño, el sustrato sobre el que se encuentra, la zona, la profundidad y el sexo en caso de observar la reproducción. Resultados: A lo largo de un año de estudio se han realizado un total de 19 muestreos. De esta forma se ha podido observar que la densidad de individuos aumenta en la zona menos profunda durante otoño e invierno, cuando la temperatura del agua baja hasta los 14.13 ºC, mientras que se reduce en primavera y verano, cuando la temperatura se eleva hasta los 27.17 ºC. Este resultado se invierte en la zona más profunda del estudio. La mayor densidad de individuos ha sido observada en octubre (0.51 ind/m2). Las algas fotófilas arborescentes y las algas coralinales costrosas han sido los sustratos con un mayor número de E. sepositus registrados. Los ejemplares de tamaños medianos a grandes se localizan preferentemente sobre algas coralinales costrosas o algas fotófilas arborescentes, mientras que los individuos de menor tamaño se sitúan mayormente sobre Posidonia oceanica. No se observaron ejemplares de E. sepositus reproduciéndose. Conclusiones: Los datos permiten presuponer que existe una migración entre las zonas más superficiales, cuando la temperatura del agua es menor, y zonas más profundas cuando la temperatura aumenta. Se valora la posibilidad de la existencia de un cambio en los requerimientos nutricionales de E. sepositus a lo largo de su desarrollo. De acuerdo con nuestras observaciones, los estudios futuros sobre la reproducción de esta especie deben concentrarse entre finales de verano y principios de otoño.

Timing of semen cryopreservation: before or after processing?

Abstract Objective: Seminal cryopreservation causes significant damage to the sperm; therefore, different methods of cryopreservation have been studied. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of density gradient processing and washing/centrifugation with seminal plasma removal for cryopreservation in semen parameters. Methods: Seminal samples of 26 normozoospermic patients were divided into 3 parts: with seminal plasma; after washing/centrifugation; and after selection through density gradient. The samples were cryopreserved for at least two weeks. Motility, sperm count, morphology and viability were evaluated before cryopreservation and after thawing. Results: Density gradient processing selected motile and viable sperm with normal morphology in fresh samples (p<0.05). Cryopreservation negatively affected all sperm parameters regardless of the processing performed, and even if the sperm recovery was lower in the density gradient after the thawing, progressive motility, total motility, viability and morphology remained higher (p<0.05). Conclusion: Cryopreservation significantly compromises sperm parameters (motility, morphology, viability). In normozoospermic patients, the density gradients select better quality spermatozoa compared to other processing methods; this benefit was kept after thawing.

Association between hepatitis A seropositivity and bone mineral density in adolescents and adults: a cross-sectional study using NHANES data

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis, characterized by decreased bone density and increased fracture risk, imposes significant physical, psychosocial, and financial burdens. Early detection and prevention are crucial for managing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between Hepatitis A seropositivity and bone mineral density (BMD) in adolescents and adults and to explore the potential link between Hepatitis A infection and osteoporosis risk. DESIGN AND SETTING: This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2011 to 2018 to evaluate the association between hepatitis A seropositivity and BMD in 15,693 participants. METHODS: Multivariable regression analysis was used to calculate the mean BMD and standard error for adolescents and adults, followed by an independent z-test to determine whether there was a significant difference between the seropositive and seronegative groups. RESULTS: Hepatitis A seropositive adolescents and adults had lower BMD than their seronegative counterparts, with significant differences in lumber spine (mean difference = -0.03 g/cm2, P < 0.01 for both age groups) and pelvis BMDs (mean difference = -0.02 g/cm2, P < 0.01 for the adult age groups), after adjusting for various covariates. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that both adolescent and adult individuals seropositive for Hepatitis A antibodies had reduced BMD among both adolescents and adults, especially in the adult group. This finding suggests a possible link between Hepatitis A infection and risk of osteoporosis.

Associação entre as condições de nascimento e a densidade mineral óssea de adultos das coortes de nascimentos de 1982 e 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Association between birth conditions and bone mineral density in adults from the 1982 and 1993 birth cohorts in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Asociación entre las condiciones de nacimiento y la densidad mineral ósea de adultos de las cohortes de nacimiento de 1982 y 1993 en Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Resumo: Este estudo avaliou a associação do peso ao nascer, idade gestacional e crescimento intrauterino com a densidade mineral óssea (DMO) aos 22 e 30 anos, nas coortes de nascimentos de 1982 e 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A DMO foi medida por absorciometria por raios X com dupla energia (DXA), a associação foi avaliada usando análise de variância e a regressão linear múltipla para o controle de confundimento por: sexo, renda familiar ao nascer, tabagismo materno na gestação, escolaridade materna, cor da pele materna e índice de massa corporal pré-gestacional. Foi testado se a gordura corporal na vida adulta era mediadora da associação analisada, por meio da G-computation Formula. Foram avaliados 6.803 participantes das coortes de 1982 e 1993, aos 30 e 22 anos, respectivamente. O peso ao nascer teve associação com a DMO em todos os sítios, com maior diferença no colo femoral. Os nascidos com menos de 2.000g apresentaram, em média, -0,036g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,064; -0,008) de DMO no colo femoral em comparação àqueles com mais de 3.500g. Aqueles com escore-z de crescimento intrauterino com pelo menos 1,28 desvio padrão abaixo da média apresentaram, em média, -0,013g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,024; -0,002) de DMO na coluna lombar, em relação aos com escore-z acima da média. A análise de mediação mostrou que gordura corporal na idade adulta não mediou a associação. As condições de nascimento foram associadas com a densidade mineral óssea na vida adulta, e a identificação dos fatores precoces relacionados à perda de DMO é essencial devido à inversão demográfica em progresso em países de média e baixa renda.

Abstract: This study assessed the association of birth weight, gestational age, and intrauterine growth with bone mineral density (BMD) at 22 and 30 years of age in the 1982 and 1993 birth cohorts in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and the association was assessed using analysis of variance. Multiple linear regression was used to control for confounding factors: sex; household income at birth; maternal smoking during pregnancy; maternal schooling; maternal ethnicity/skin color; and pre-pregnancy body mass index. The study tested whether body fat in adulthood was a mediator of the association analyzed, using the G-computation Formula. A total of 6,803 participants from the 1982 and 1993 cohorts were evaluated at 30 and 22 years of age, respectively. Birth weight was associated with BMD at all sites, with a greater difference at the femoral neck. Individuals born weighing less than 2,000g had on average -0.036g/cm2 (95%CI: -0.064; -0.008) of BMD in the femoral neck than individuals weighing more than 3,500g. Individuals with an intrauterine growth z-score at least 1.28 standard deviation below the mean had an average of -0.013g/cm2 (95%CI: -0.024; -0.002) of BMD in the lumbar spine compared with individuals with an above-average z-score. The mediation analysis showed that body fat in adulthood did not mediate the association. Birth conditions have been associated with BMD in adulthood and the identification of early factors related to bone loss is essential due to the demographic inversion that has been taking place in low- and middle-income countries.

Resumen: Este estudio evaluó la asociación del peso al nacer, la edad gestacional y el crecimiento intrauterino con la densidad mineral ósea (DMO) a los 22 y 30 años de edad, en las Cohortes de Nacimiento de 1982 y 1993 de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. La DMO se midió mediante absorciometría de rayos X de doble emisión (DXA), y la asociación se evaluó mediante ANOVA y regresión lineal múltiple para controlar la confusión por sexo, ingresos familiares al nacer, tabaquismo materno durante el embarazo, escolaridad materna, color de piel materno e índice de masa corporal antes del embarazo. Se comprobó si la grasa corporal en la edad adulta era un mediador de la asociación analizada, utilizando G-computation Formula. Se evaluaron 6.803 participantes de las cohortes 82 y 93, de 30 y 22 años, respectivamente. El peso al nacer se asoció con la DMO en todos los sitios, con la mayor diferencia en el cuello femoral. Los nacidos con un peso inferior a 2.000g tuvieron una media de -0,036g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,064; -0,008) de DMO en el cuello femoral, que aquellos con más de 3.500g. Aquellos con una puntuación z de crecimiento intrauterino de al menos 1,28 desviaciones estándar por debajo de la media presentaron un promedio de -0,013g/cm2 (IC95%: -0,024; -0,002) de DMO en la columna lumbar, con relación a aquellos con un puntaje z superior a la media. El análisis de mediación mostró que la grasa corporal en la edad adulta no medió la asociación. Las condiciones de nacimiento se asociaron con la DMO en la edad adulta, y la identificación temprana de factores relacionados con la pérdida de DMO es esencial debido a la inversión demográfica que ha estado ocurriendo en los países de ingresos medios y bajos.

Association between childhood anthropometric indicators and bone mineral density in adulthood / Associação entre indicadores antropométricos na infância e densidade mineral óssea na idade adulta

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to verify the association between childhood anthropometric indicators and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) in adulthood. Methods: Repeated measures of 137 subjects (68 females) were obtained in childhood (9.2±1.5 years of age) and adulthood (22.3±1.7 years of age). aBMD (g/cm2) was assessed for whole body, lumbar spine, upper and lower limbs, and femoral neck in adulthood using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Anthropometric measurements of body weight (BW), height, triceps and subscapular skinfolds were obtained in childhood. The anthropometric indicators used were BW, body mass index (BMI), and sum of skinfolds (ΣSF). Simple linear regression was used to assess the association between childhood anthropometric indicators and aBMD in adulthood, controlled by chronological age and stratified by sex, with 5% statistical significance. Results: In females, multiple associations were observed between anthropometric indicators and aBMD, with higher coefficients for BMI (β=0.020; R2=0.20; p<0.01 for right femoral neck to β=0.008; R2=0.16; p<0.01 for upper limbs), followed by BW (β=0.003; R2=0.21; p<0.01 for upper limbs to β=0.008; R2=0.20; p<0.01 for right femoral neck) and ΣSF (β=0.001; R2=0.06; p<0.01 for upper limbs to β=0.005; R2=0.12; p<0.01 for right femoral neck). In males, associations were observed only for the lumbar spine region (β=0.016; R2=0.09 for BMI to β=0.004; R2=0.06; p<0.01 for ΣSF). Conclusions: Anthropometric indicators of childhood proved to be sensitive predictors of aBMD in adulthood, especially in females. BMI indicated a greater association with aBMD in both sexes.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a associação entre os indicadores antropométricos da infância com a área da densidade mineral óssea (aDMO) na idade adulta. Métodos: Medidas repetidas de 137 sujeitos (68 do sexo feminino) foram obtidos na infância (9,2±1,5 anos de idade) e idade adulta (22,3±1,7 anos de idade). A aDMO (g/cm2) foi avaliada para todo o corpo, coluna lombar, membros superiores e inferiores e colo do fêmur na idade adulta usando a absorciometria radiológica de dupla energia (DXA). Medidas antropométricas de peso corporal, estatura e dobras cutâneas das regiões tricipital e subescapular foram obtidas na infância. Os indicadores antropométricos utilizados para as análises foram o peso corporal (PC), o índice de massa corporal (IMC) e o somatório de dobras cutâneas (ΣDC). Regressão linear simples controlada pela idade e estratificada por sexo foi empregada para avaliar a associação entre os indicadores antropométricos do período da infância na aDMO na idade adulta, com significância estatística de 5%. Resultados: No sexo feminino, múltiplas associações foram observadas entre os indicadores antropométricos e a aDMO, com maiores coeficientes para IMC (β=0,020; R2=0,20; p<0.01 para colo do fêmur direito a β=0,008; R2=0,16; p<0,01 para membros superiores), seguido da PC (β=0,003; r2=0,21; p<0,01 para membros superiores a β=0,008; r2=0,20; p<0,01 para colo do fêmur direito) e ΣDC (β=0,001; R2=0,06; p<0,01 para membros superiores a β=0,005; R2=0,12; p<0,01 para colo do fêmur direito). No sexo masculino, associações ocorreram apenas na região da coluna (β=0,016; R2=0,09 para IMC a β=0,004; R2=0,06; p<0,01 para ΣDC). Conclusões: Indicadores antropométricos da infância mostraram ser sensíveis preditores da aDMO na idade adulta, especialmente no sexo feminino. O IMC indicou maior associação com a aDMO em ambos os sexos.

Assessing bone mineral density in children and adolescents living with HIV and on treatment with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: a systematic review / Avaliação da densidade mineral óssea em crianças e adolescentes que vivem com HIV e em tratamento com tenofovir disoproxil fumarato: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the impact of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate on bone mineral density and bone mineral content in children and adolescents infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. Data source: The search procedure was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement. The search was carried out until April 2022 in Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Embase, Cochrane Central, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Web of Science, Scopus, and MedRxiv. The combination of terms used was: (Children OR Youth OR Teenagers) AND HIV AND (Tenofovir OR "Antiretroviral therapy") AND ("Bone density" OR Osteoporosis OR Osteopenia). The protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, CRD42022312851) Data synthesis: The initial searches resulted in 1156 papers. After the exclusion of duplicate studies, three blinded reviewers analyzed the title and abstract of 563 papers, of which 57 remained to be read in full. Only nine papers met the eligibility criteria and were included in descriptive and risk-of-bias analyses. Regarding study design, four were cross-sectional, three were longitudinal before-after studies without a control group, and two were prospective cohorts. Among these nine papers, seven showed no significant association between tenofovir disoproxil fumarate use and reduced bone mass in young people. However, these papers did not have high methodological quality. Conclusions: Although most of the selected papers found no harmful effect of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate on bone mass, further primary research with higher methodological quality is needed so robust scientific evidences can be obtained.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar o impacto do tenofovir disoproxil fumarato sobre a densidade mineral óssea e o conteúdo mineral ósseo em crianças e adolescentes infectados pelo vírus da imunodeficiência humana. Fontes de dados: O procedimento de busca foi executado de acordo com o Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement. A busca foi realizada até abril de 2022 nas seguintes bases de dados: Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), Embase, Cochrane Central, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (Lilacs), Web of Science, Scopus, and MedRxiv. A combinação de termos utilizada foi: (Children OR Youth OR Teenagers) AND HIV AND (Tenofovir OR "Antiretroviral therapy") AND ("Bone density" OR Osteoporosis OR Osteopenia). O protocolo foi registrado na base International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews — PROSPERO (CRD42022312851). Síntese dos dados: As pesquisas iniciais resultaram em 1.156 artigos. Após a exclusão dos estudos duplicados, três revisores cegos analisaram título e resumo de 563 estudos, dos quais 57 permaneceram para leitura na íntegra. Somente nove artigos atenderam aos critérios de elegibilidade e foram incluídos para análises descritivas e de risco de viés. Com relação ao desenho dos estudos, quatro foram transversais, três foram estudos longitudinais antes-depois sem grupo controle e dois foram coortes prospectivas. Dos nove artigos, sete não mostraram associação significativa entre uso de TDF e redução de massa óssea em pessoas jovens. Entretanto, esses estudos não tiveram alta qualidade metodológica. Conclusões: Embora a maioria dos estudos selecionados não tenha encontrado efeito prejudicial do TDF sobre massa óssea, novas pesquisas primárias com maior qualidade metodológica são necessárias para que sejam obtidas evidências científicas robustas.

Implications of Vitamin D Status for Children's Bone Health: A Data Mining Analyses of Observational Studies

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate associations/correlations between bone alterations and vitamin D status in children through data mining analyses based on observational studies. Material and Methods: Searches in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases were performed to recover studies, published until October 2022, with healthy children, which investigated the vitamin D status, related or not to undesirable bone alterations linked to bone quality (bone mineral density and bone mineral content), fracture or anthropometry. Country, study design, area of expertise (medicine, nutrition, dentistry, others), bone outcome, 25-hydroxyvitamin D data (serum or intake levels), the exams for bone diagnosis, and the results were analyzed in the VantagePointTM software. Results: Of 20,583 studies, 27 were included. The USA (n=9; 33.3%) had the highest number of publications. Cross-sectional (n=11; 40.7%), case-control (n=9; 33.3%), and cohort studies (n=7; 25.9%) contemplated the medicine and nutritional areas without any study in dentistry. Studies about bone quality (n=21; 77.8%), analyzed through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA; n=14; 51.8%), with association (n=16; 59.2%) between the low serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and undesirable bone alterations (n=14; 51.8%) were the most prevalent. Conclusion: Most studies were conducted in the medical area and showed an association between low bone quality and low levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, verified through DXA.

Comparative analysis of Aedes albopictus surveillance index in Yangpu District， Shanghai / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo analyze the interannual fluctuation， seasonal fluctuation， habitat distribution and the correlation of the 3 monitoring indicators of Aedes albopictus in Yangpu District of Shanghai from 2017 to 2021， and to provide a scientific basis for A. albopictus control and rational use of the indicators. MethodsThe density surveillance data of A. albopictus recorded by Breteau index （BI）， Path index （PI） and the mosquito ovitrap index （MOI） from 2017 to 2021 in Yangpu District， Shanghai were compared. Microsoft Excel 2019 software was used for data summary and SPSS 25.0 software was used for statistical analysis. ResultsFrom 2017 to 2021， there were two months with BI>5， and the PI were all above the density control level of Class C， and there were nine months with MOI≥5. In 2017， BI was higher than in the other four years， with statistically significant differences （all P≤0.001）. MOI in 2017 and 2020 was higher than in 2019 （P=0.029， P=0.004） and 2021 （P=0.005， P=0.001）， with statistical significance. MOI for different types of habitats varied significantly， with a statistically significant difference （P=0.004）. A linear correlation was observed between BI and PI （r=0.462， P=0.010）. ConclusionBI， PI and MOI are used simultaneously to reflect the density of A. albopictus in Yangpu District of Shanghai. However， these three monitoring indicators show poor linear correlation. Comprehensively considering the scientific aspects of monitoring methods and seasonal fluctuations of indicators， it is suggested that MOI should be used as the main index to evaluate the density of A. albopictus. In the MOI， attention should be paid to factors such as the distribution of the habitats， the standardization of operating methods， and quality control， which are essential for enhancing the reliability of the MOI.

Morin Mediates Protective Effects on Bone in Aged Rats by Inhibiting ERK1/2-p38 Signaling Pathway / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of morin treatment on bone metabolism and bone mass in aged rats， and to clarify the possible mechanism. MethodsTen young female Sprague-Dawley rats （3 months old） and 20 old female Sprague-Dawley rats （24 months old） were randomly divided into three groups： Control group （CON， 10 young rats）； Model group （MOD， 10 young rats）； 10 old rats and SangHuangSu Group （SSS， 10 old rats）. During the experiment， the SSS group received intraperitoneal injection of morin （10 mg / kg） daily. The treatment lasted for 12 weeks. After treatment， Micro-CT， HE stained sections， serological tests and Western blot were used to observe the treatment effect and possible mechanism. ResultsAfter 12 weeks of treatment， compared with MOD group， the number and density of bone trabeculae in SSS group were significantly improved. The BMD， Conn. D， Tb. N， Tb.Th and Tb.Sp of the left femur in the SSS group were significantly better than those in the MOD group（P <0.05）. After 12 weeks of treatment， the levels of CTX-1， osteocalcin， TRACP-5b and PINP in SSS group were significantly lower than those in MOD group（P <0.05）. Compared with the MOD group， the ERK1/2-p38 signal pathway was significantly inhibited and the levels of ERK1/2 and p38 were significantly decreased in the SSS group（P <0.05）. ConclusionMorin pigment mediates the protective effect on the bones of aged rats by inhibiting the ERK1/2-p38 signaling pathway and reducing bone turnover.

Optimization and identification of a low density and high purity method for primary hippocampal neuron culture from fetal rats / 解剖学报

Objective To establish a low density, high purity and high stability in vitro culture method of primary hippocampal neurons of fetal rats by co-culturing hippocampal and cortical cells, so as to obtain higher purity and better vitality of primary hippocampal neurons disease. Methods The fetal rat hippocampal tissue was isolated from 16-18 days pregnant SD rats, then cut and digested by 0.125% trypsin. The obtained cell suspension was filtered by 200 mesh cell sieve, and then the obtained cell suspensions were then inoculated into the inner layer and outer ring of the culture plate in a surrounding form. They were co-cultured in DMEM/F12 medium containing 10% horse serum. After 4-6 hours of cell adhesion, the culture medium was changed to maintenance medium (Neurobasal+2% B27+0.5 mmol/L glutamine). Then the cell viability was detected with CCK-8 kit and the purity of hippocampal neurons was detected by immunofluorescent staining. Results Hippocampal neurons grew well and formed crisscross neural networks after 5 days. And it could survive for 3 weeks. The purity of hippocampal neurons was up to 98%. Conclusion The method of co-culturing hippocampal and cortical cells can obtain high-purity, high activity, high survival rate, and high stability primary hippocampal neurons from fetal rats, which can provide certain experimental conditions for the study of hippocampal neuron related diseases in the nervous system and is worthy of promotion and application.

Effects of low concentration atropine on macular microcirculation in children with different degrees of myopia / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

AIM: To investigate the effects of 0.01% atropine eye drops on macular blood flow density and retinal thickness in children with different degrees of myopia. METHODS: This was a prospective case-control study. Sixty-four patients (112 eyes) diagnosed with myopia for the first time with 0.01% atropine eye drops before and 6 months after medication were investigated with the uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCVA), axial length (AL), spherical equivalent (SE), macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thicknes (mGCIPL) using slit lamp examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT), vascular density in the macular area and the area of the avascular in the fovea using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) . Changes in various indicators before and after medication were compared. RESULTS: Compared with before medication, the AL of the three groups of myopia patients increased significantly (P0.05). The difference was statistically significant between the moderate myopia group and the high myopia group (P0.05). After 6 months of medication, the central circle macular vessel density (cCVD) increased in the low myopia group and moderate myopia group (P0.05). Before and after medication, there was no significant difference in outer circle macular vessel density (oCVD), inner circle macular vessel density (iCVD), and whole circle macular vessel density (wCVD) among the three myopia groups (P>0.05). The increase in mGCIPL was statistically significant in the low myopia group (P0.05). There was no significant difference in foveal avascular zone (FAZ) among the three myopia groups before and after medication (P>0.05). There was no correlation between CVD, AL, and SE in the three myopia groups (P>0.01). There was a low correlation between CVD and mGCIPL in the low myopia group (r=0.442, P0.01). CONCLUSION: 0.01% atropine can significantly reduce the rate of axial and refractive growth in children with low to moderate myopia, increase the density of central macular vessels, and increase the thickness of mGCIPL in children with low to moderate myopia.

Application of magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction in liver fat quantification / 临床肝胆病杂志

Hepatic steatosis can be observed in chronic liver diseases of different etiologies. The main predisposing factors for hepatic steatosis include chronic viral hepatitis， cholestatic liver disease， alcoholic liver disease， and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Simple fatty liver disease is the initial manifestation of hepatic steatosis， followed by steatohepatitis， liver fibrosis， liver cirrhosis， and even hepatocellular carcinoma. With the development of medical imaging technology， magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction （MRI-PDFF） has been widely used in the diagnosis of fatty liver disease （FLD） in clinical practice. MRI-PDFF is gradually becoming the gold standard for the noninvasive diagnosis of FLD due to its high accuracy and good repeatability. This article reviews the clinical application of MRI-PDFF in liver fat quantification and related research advances.

Establishment and application of a prospective follow-up research method for acute infectious diseases in Shanghai community residents / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo present the exploration and application of a prospective follow-up research method for acute infectious disease surveillance based on natural community populations， using COVID-19 infection as an example， and to provide a reference for improving the infectious disease surveillance and early warning system. MethodsA multi-stage probability proportional sampling method was employed to sample residents from all communities of 16 administrative districts in Shanghai， with households as the units. A cohort for acute infectious diseases based on natural community populations was established. The baseline survey was conducted for all cohort subjects， and COVID-19 antigen test kits were distributed. From December 21， 2022 to September 30， 2023， prospective follow-up monitoring of COVID-19 antigen and nucleic acid was carried out on the study subjects on a weekly basis. The baseline characteristics and follow-up information of the cohort subjects were described. ResultsThe cohort for acute infectious diseases included a total of 12 881 subjects， comprising 6 098 males （47.3%） and 6 783 females （52.7%）. The baseline survey revealed that 35.2% （4 540/12 881） of the subjects had a history of COVID-19 infection. During the follow-up period from December 21， 2022 to September 30， 2023， the average incidence density in the cohort was 0.61/person-year， with a higher incidence density in females （0.63/person-year） compared to males （0.59/person-year）. Individuals aged 60 and above （0.64/person-year） and those with underlying health conditions （0.67/person-year） had a higher incidence density. Healthcare workers showed a notably higher incidence density （0.84/person-year） than that in other occupational groups. As of September 30， 2023， a total of 340 subjects in the cohort experienced secondary infections， with a median interval of 170 days between the first and second infections. ConclusionThis study applies cohort study method to acute infectious disease surveillance， providing crucial data support for estimating infection rates and forecasting alerts for acute infectious diseases in the community. This method can be promoted and applied as a new approach for acute infectious disease surveillance.

Multi-center Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of Huangqi Injection Combined with Buzhong Yiqi Acupuncture in Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with Qi Deficiency / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy of Huangqi injection combined with Buzhong Yiqi acupuncture in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome （CFS） with Qi deficiency and its effects on TCM syndromes， fatigue symptoms， serum superoxide dismutase （SOD）， malondialdehyde （MDA）， and oxidized low-density lipoprotein （ox-LDL） levels. MethodA total of 200 patients with CFS of Qi deficiency were randomly divided into a control group （100 cases） and an observation group （100 cases）. The control group was treated with vitamin B compounds， and the observation group was treated with Huangqi injection combined with Buzhong Yiqi acupuncture for two weeks. The scores of TCM syndromes， fatigue symptoms， levels of serum SOD， MDA， and ox-LDL and the incidence of adverse reactions were observed and compared before and after treatment in two groups. ResultAfter treatment， the total effective rate of the control group was 54.34% （50/92）， while that of the observation group was 88.54% （85/96）. The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group （χ2=27.13，P<0.05）. Compared with those in the two groups before treatment， scores of fatigue self-assessment scale （FSAS）， physical fatigue and mental fatigue， and sleep/rest response scores of fatigue in the two groups after treatment were significantly decreased （P<0.05）. After treatment， scores of FSAS， physical fatigue and mental fatigue， and sleep/rest response scores of fatigue in the observation group were significantly decreased compared with those in the control group （P<0.05）. Compared with those in the two groups before treatment， TCM syndrome scores in the two groups after treatment were significantly decreased （P<0.05）. After treatment， TCM syndrome scores in the observation group were significantly decreased compared with those in the control group （P<0.05）. Compared with those in the two groups before treatment， MDA levels in the two groups were significantly decreased （P<0.05）， ox-LDL levels in the observation group were significantly decreased （P<0.05）， and SOD levels were significantly increased （P<0.05）. After treatment， compared with those in the control group， the serum MDA and ox-LDL levels in the observation group were significantly decreased （P<0.05）， and the serum SOD was significantly increased （P<0.05）. No serious adverse events or adverse reactions occurred during this clinical trial. ConclusionHuangqi injection combined with Buzhong Yiqi acupuncture has a good clinical curative effect in the treatment of CFS with Qi deficiency， which can effectively improve the fatigue symptoms of patients， increase the level of SOD， and reduce the level of serum MDA and ox-LDL. It is related to the production of antioxidants， inhibiting the production of lipid peroxides， and improving the body's ability to resist oxidative stress.

Osteoprotective Effect and Mechanisms of Taxillus chinensis from Different Hosts on Ovariectomized Osteoporotic Rats / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo compare the effects of Taxillus chinensis from different hosts with different meridian affinity on bone microstructure and bone metabolism in ovariectomized osteoporotic rats， and investigate its mechanism of action. MethodEighty-eight specific-pathogen-free （SPF）-grade female Sprague-Dawley （SD） rats were selected and randomly divided into 11 groups： sham-operated group， model group， low-， medium- and high-dose groups of T. chinensis from Morus alba （2.5， 5， and 10 g·kg-1）， low-， medium- and high-dose groups of T. chinensis from Cinnamomum cassia （2.5， 5， and 10 g·kg-1）， and low-， medium- and high-dose groups of T. chinensis from C. burmannii （2.5， 5， and 10 g·kg-1）. After 12 weeks of drug intervention， the rats were examined for proximal femur bone density and bone microstructure using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry （DXA） and micro-computed tomography （Micro-CT）. Histopathological changes in rat femur were observed by the hematoxylin-eosin staining （HE）. Contents of serum estradiol （E2）， bone Gla protein （BGP）， bone alkaline phosphatase （BALP）， tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b （TRACP-5b） and pre-collagen type Ⅰ amino-terminal protopeptide （PINP） were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction （Real-time PCR） was employed to detect the messenger ribonucleic acid （mRNA） expressions of bone morphogenetic protein-2 （BMP-2）， Smad1， Smad9 and recombinant runt-related transcription factor 2 （Runx2） in rat humerus. Western blot was used to detect the protein expressions of BMP-2， p-Smad1/5/9 and Runx2 in rat humerus. ResultCompared with that in the sham-operated group， the femur microstructure of rats in the model group was significantly disrupted， with significant decreases in bone mineral density （BMD） value， bone volume fraction （BV/TV）， trabecular number （Tb.N）， and trabecular thickness （Tb.Th） （P<0.01）， and significant increases in trabecular separation （Tb.Sp） and structure model index （SMI） （P<0.01）. The serum levels of BGP， BALP， TRACP-5b and PINP were significantly increased （P<0.05， P<0.01）， and E2 levels were significantly decreased （P<0.01）. The mRNA expressions of BMP-2， Smad1， Smad9， and Runx2 were significantly decreased in rat humerus （P<0.01）， and the protein expressions of BMP-2， p-Smad1/5/9， and Runx2 were significantly reduced （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the administration groups of T. chinensis from different hosts all elevated the BMD， BV/TV， Tb.N， Tb.Th， Tb.Sp， and SMI levels in the femur， improved bone microstructure， increased serum E2 levels （P<0.05， P<0.01）， lowered the levels of serum BGP， BALP， TRACP-5b， and PINP， upregulated the mRNA expression of BMP-2， Smad1， and Runx2 and upregulated the mRNA expression levels of Smad9 （P<0.05， P<0.01）， and upregulated the protein expressions levels of BMP-2， p-Smad1/5/9， and Runx2 （P<0.01）. The best effect was observed in the group of T. chinensis from C. cassia. ConclusionT. chinensis from different hosts improved osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats， with the group of T. chinensis from C. cassia being the most potent among the administered groups， and its treatment of osteoporosis may regulate the balance of bone conversion by regulating BMP/Smad signaling pathway.