Albumin Concentration Research Articles

Controlling nutritional (CONUT) score for nutritional screening in kidney transplant recipients

Purpose: Nutrition is severely impaired in individuals with renal impairment, and transplant often ameliorates this condition. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score of kidney transplant (KT) recipients. Materials and methods: Using the data from the nephrology transplant unit, we analyzed 188 patients whose data on the constituents of the CONUT score were available. We included KT individuals with at least one lymphocyte count and total cholesterol and albumin concentrations. This data has been used to calculate the CONUT score. The decrease of lymphocyte counts and total cholesterol was determined with 0, 1, 2, and 3 points, and the reduction of albumin was assigned with 0, 2, 4, and 6 points in agreement with disease severity. Patients were classified according to this score: normal, light, moderate, and severe. Results: There were 138 patients in normal, 54 in light, and three in each moderate and severe group. The CONUT score was good for regular-weight patients both before and after transplantation. All laboratory findings revealed significant differences between CONUT groups (p< 0.05). The logistic regression analysis model, including cholesterol, WBC, and calcium, showed that these three parameters have a predictive value of 80%. Conclusion: After transplantation, the number of patients in the underweight group decreased when normal weight and obesity increased. However, some patients’ nutrition was not ameliorated. The CONUT score may be a useful tool for monitoring transplant patients’ nutritional status.

Effect of goose-derived adiponectin peptide gADP3 on LPS-induced inflammatory injury in goose liver

ABSTRACT 1. This study evaluated the effects and mechanisms of action of the peptide gADP3 on hepatic inflammatory injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). 2. Hepatic inflammatory injury was induced in geese by intraperitoneal injection of LPS and gADP3, and the adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon (positive control) was used for potential amelioration. Serum inflammatory factor levels, liver function-related biochemical indicators and oxidative stress-related biochemical parameters in the liver tissues were determined. The expression levels of adiponectin and its receptors, inflammation and oxidative stress-related genes and key signalling molecules involved in adiponectin, inflammation and oxidative stress signalling pathways in liver tissues were detected. 3. The peptide gADP3 alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration and hepatic inflammatory changes, reversed the decrease in serum albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) content or activity induced by LPS and increased the activity of the antioxidant enzymes CAT (catalase), SOD (superoxide dismutase) and GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase). 4. The peptide gADP3 upregulated the expression of antioxidant enzyme-related genes GCLC, HO-1 and NQO1 in liver tissues, decreased the levels of inflammatory factors like TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ and TGF-β and reduced mRNA expression levels of inflammatory-related genes TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS and TGF-β. Additionally, it increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of adiponectin and its receptors, as well as key molecules in the adiponectin signalling pathway like AMPK and PPARα. In addition, gADP3 reversed the changes in mRNA or protein expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress signalling pathway-related genes P38MAPK, NF-κBP65, TLR4 and Nrf2 in liver tissues caused by LPS treatment. 5. In conclusion, goose-derived adiponectin peptide gADP3, similar to the adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon, attenuated LPS-induced hepatic inflammatory injury in geese.

Duodenal and colonic mucosal S100A8/A9 (calprotectin) expression is increased and correlates with the severity of select histologic lesions in dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy

BackgroundCalprotectin, a damage-associated molecular pattern protein of the S100/calgranulin family, is a potential marker of gastrointestinal inflammation in dogs and mainly originates from activated macrophages and granulocytes. Increased calprotectin concentrations are reported in feces and serum samples from dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE), but mucosal calprotectin expression has not been extensively investigated in canine CIE. Thus, we aimed to evaluate gastrointestinal mucosal concentrations of calprotectin in 62 dogs (44 dogs with CIE compared to 18 healthy Beagles) using a particle-enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay method. Additionally, we assessed the relationship of gastric, duodenal, jejunal, ileal, and colonic mucosal calprotectin levels with the clinical disease severity (canine clinical inflammatory bowel disease activity index, CIBDAI), histopathologic findings, clinical outcome, and serum albumin concentrations to further evaluate the potential of calprotectin as a biomarker for CIE.ResultsMucosal calprotectin concentrations in dogs with CIE were significantly higher in the duodenum (median: 276.2 μg/g) and colon (median: 298.2 μg/g) compared to healthy controls (median: 94.3 μg/g, P = 0.0039; and median: 112.0 μg/g, P = 0.0061). Similar numerical differences in the ileum and cecum were not statistically significant, and mucosal calprotectin concentrations correlated significantly among the different gastrointestinal segments. Histologic lesion severity was linked to mucosal calprotectin concentrations for inflammatory and structural histology criteria in the duodenum and colon (all P < 0.05). Higher mucosal calprotectin levels in the duodenum and across all segments correlated with lower serum albumin concentrations (both P < 0.05); duodenal mucosal calprotectin concentrations were more than sixfold higher in hypoalbuminemic dogs (median: 1441 µg/g, n = 4) than normoalbuminemic dogs (median: 227 µg/g, n = 40). There was no significant association of mucosal calprotectin levels with CIBDAI scores or individual clinical outcomes.ConclusionsThese results show that duodenal and colonic mucosal calprotectin concentrations are increased in dogs with CIE, providing further supporting evidence for the diagnostic potential of fecal calprotectin (presumably reflecting mucosal) concentrations and in dogs with CIE. Further longitudinal research is needed to assess changes in mucosal calprotectin concentrations with clinical response to treatment vs. mucosal disease remission and to determine the clinical utility of fecal calprotectin concentrations to diagnose and monitor dogs with CIE in clinical practice.

Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in COVID-19-Associated ARDS: Predictors of Mortality

The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) receiving veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO).Materials and methods. The retrospective study included data from the medical records of 123 patients treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) № 7 of the City Clinical Hospital № 52 of Moscow Department of Health. ECMO was initiated in all patients for respiratory indications according to current recommendations. A number of factors potentially associated with mortality were systematized and analyzed. Statistical processing to identify predictors of death included univariate analysis and calculation of odds ratio (OR), ROC analysis with calculation of area under the ROC curve (AUROC).Results. The resulting mortality rate was 87% (107/123), 11% (14/107) of all deaths occurred after weaning from ECMO. High VV-ECMO flow, delayed initiation of mechanical ventilation and ECMO therapy, and low pH at the time of ECMO initiation were identified as independent predictors of death in the study group. Low median albumin concentration and prolonged use of vasopressors were identified as predictors of death within 28 days of initiation of VV-ECMO. Development of acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), septic shock and its recurrences, and the use of extracorporeal blood purification therapy for septic shock were found to be predictors of death during VV-ECMO therapy.Conclusion. High-flow VV-ECMO regimen, delayed initiation of mechanical ventilation and ECMO support, hypoalbuminemia, prolonged need for norepinephrine infusion, development of AKI requiring CRRT, septic shock occurrence and the number of its recurrences requiring extracorporeal blood purification therapy during VV-ECMO support were identified as predictors of death in patients with COVID-19-associated ARDS after initiation of VV-ECMO therapy.

Suppressive Effects of β-Hydroxybutyrate Administration on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in Broiler Chickens.

This study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effects of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) administration on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in broiler chickens. Twenty-day-old male broiler chickens were randomly allocated to three groups, each of which was treated with saline (control), intraperitoneal administration of LPS [1.5 mg/kg body weight (BW), Escherichia coli O127:B8], or LPS plus BHB (3 mmol/kg BW). Plasma albumin and total protein concentration were significantly reduced by LPS administration, while BHB co-treatment partially attenuated the effects. The LPS treatment significantly induced plasma aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities, and interleukin (IL)-6 concentration, with the increases suppressed by BHB co-treatment (p < 0.05). The LPS treatment significantly increased the gene expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 in the spleen and peripheral blood monocytes (PBMC), while the increases were partially attenuated by BHB in the spleen. Relatively higher levels of BHB dehydrogenase 1 and succinyl-CoA:3-ketoacid CoA transferase were observed in the spleen and skeletal muscle, while these gene levels were lower in PBMC and the liver. The present results suggest that BHB can suppress LPS-induced inflammation, in which ketolytic enzyme expression levels may be involved in broiler chickens.

Serum chemistry, thyroxine concentration, and blood cell morphology of wild, young Blackchin Guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus sampled on the eastern Mediterranean coastline.

The Blackchin Guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea and is critically endangered, but relevant routine laboratory data are unavailable. Our objectives were to determine the packed cell volume (PCV), comprehensive serum chemistry analytes, and serum total thyroxine (sTT4) concentration; compare serum albumin and serum globulin concentrations as measured by two different methods; and describe the blood cell morphology of healthy, free-ranging Blackchin Guitarfish. Wild Blackchin Guitarfish were captured using a seine net. Blood samples for serum chemistry and hematological analyses were obtained and measured using routine laboratory methods. The fish were tagged and released. This study included 43 Blackchin Guitarfish (17 males and 26 females) that were younger than 6 months as estimated based on total length and body weight. The median PCV (n = 23) was 22% (minimum-maximum [min-max] = 15-25%). Median sTT4 (n = 10) measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay was 7.86 nmol/L (min-max = 7.52-9.57 nmol/L). The study included a comprehensive, 25-analyte serum chemistry analysis (e.g., serum iron and unbound and total iron-binding capacity) and a morphological description of all blood cells. Serum electrophoresis (SEP; n = 13) yielded a consistent serum albumin-migrating protein fraction and four globulin fractions. Serum electrophoretograms corroborating these results are presented. In Blackchin Guitarfish, the serum albumin-migrating fraction measured by SEP combined with serum total protein concentration yields a much higher albumin concentration compared to that measured by bromocresol green spectrophotometry. The true identity of this albumin-migrating fraction remains to be identified. The analytes' calculated 2.5-97.5% interpercentile intervals should be considered as reference intervals applying to Blackchin Guitarfish of similar age but should be applied cautiously to adult fish.

Red cell distribution width/albumin ratio and mortality risk in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Insights from a NHANES study.

Despite the established negative regulatory effects observed in various diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, the distinct impact of red cell distribution width (RDW) to albumin ratio (RAR) on mortality within the realm of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains obscure. This study sought to explore the relationship between RAR and mortality in RA patients. A cohort of 2151 adults with RA from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2003-2016 was analyzed for RAR levels derived from red cell distribution width and albumin concentrations. Utilizing Cox regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier curves, and Restricted Cubic Spline (RCS) models, we assessed the association between RAR levels and RA mortality while adjusting for potential confounding variables. Participants with higher RAR had a twofold to threefold increased risk of all-cause (HR = 3.10, 95% CI: 2.26-4.24) and cardiovascular mortality (HR = 2.46, 95%CI: 1.26-4.79) versus lower RAR. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the higher RAR group had a significantly lower survival rate compared to the lower RAR group for both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (both p < .0001), with a more pronounced effect observed for all-cause mortality. Furthermore, the RCS-fitted Cox regression model illustrated a nonlinear positive correlation between RAR levels and RA mortality. Overall, a higher RAR was associated with an increased risk mortality in RA patients. These findings underscore the potential of RAR as a prognostic biomarker in predicting outcomes in RA.

Plasma Glycated Albumin in Early Pregnancy and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective and Longitudinal Study.

To investigate associations of plasma glycated albumin (GA) concentrations in early and midpregnancy with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. We measured GA concentrations using blood samples collected at 10-14 and 15-26 weeks' gestation in 107 GDM case and 214 control participants from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Fetal Growth Study. We performed generalized linear mixed-effect regression to test the mean GA difference between GDM case and control participants and conditional logistic regression to assess prospective associations between GA concentrations and GDM risk. At 15-26 weeks' gestation mean GA was lower in GDM case participants than in control participants (mean 11.90% [95% CI 6.42-32.76] vs. 12.46% [8.45-38.35], adjusted P value for difference = 0.004). Consistently, women with higher GA concentrations tended to have a lower GDM risk, although the associations were not statistically significant. This study suggests that GA concentrations in midpregnancy might be lower in women who later develop GDM. Further studies are needed to identify the mechanism.

Repeated marine heatwaves aggravate the adverse effects of nano-TiO2 on physiological metabolism of the thick-shelled mussel Mytilus coruscus

Global climate change is a major trigger of unexpected temperature fluctuations. The impacts of marine heatwaves (MHWs) and nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2) on marine organisms have been extensively investigated. However, the potential mechanisms underlying their interactive effects on physiological processes and metabolism remain poorly understood, especially regarding periodic MHWs in real-world conditions. In this study, the effects of nano-TiO2 (at concentrations of 0, 25, and 250 μg/L) and periodic MHWs on the condition index (CI) and underlying metabolic mechanisms were investigated in mussels (Mytilus coruscus). The results showed that mussels try to upregulate their respiration rate (RR) to enhance aerobic metabolism (indicated by elevated succinate dehydrogenase) under short-term nano-TiO2 exposure. However, even at ambient concentration (25 μg/L), prolonged nano-TiO2 exposure inhibited ingestion ability (decreased clearance rate) and glycolysis (inhibited pyruvate kinase, hexokinase, and phosphofructokinase activities), which led to an insufficient energy supply (decreased triglyceride, albumin, and ATP contents). Repeated thermal scenarios caused more severe physiological damage, demonstrating that mussels are fragile to periodic MHWs. MHWs decreased the zeta potential of the nano-TiO2 particles but increased the hydrodynamic diameter. Additionally, exposure to nano-TiO2 and periodic MHWs further affected aerobic respiration (inhibited lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities), metabolism (decreased RR, activities of respiratory metabolism-related enzymes, and expressions of PEPCK, PPARγ, and ACO), and overall health condition (decreased ATP and CI). These findings indicate that the combined stress of these two stressors exerts more detrimental impact on the physiological performance and energy metabolism of mussels, and periodic MHWs exacerbate the toxicological effects of ambient concentration nano-TiO2. Given the potential worsening of nanoparticle pollution and the increase in extreme heat events in the future, the well-being of mussels in the marine environment may face further threats.

Real-world experience with long-term albumin in patients with cirrhosis and ascites

Background and AimsLong-term albumin (LTA) is currently standard of care for patients with decompensated cirrhosis in many Italian hepatological centres. This real-life study aimed to describe patient, logistical and treatment-related characteristics in daily clinical practice and to identify predictors of response. MethodsMulticentre, retrospective, observational study in patients with cirrhosis and ascites receiving LTA between 01/2016 and 02/2022 and followed until death, TIPS, transplantation or 02/2023. Results312 patients, the majority with alcohol-related cirrhosis, were included. At baseline, median Child-Pugh was 8, MELD 15, and MELD-Na 18. Ascites was grade 2 in 55% of patients, grade 3 in 35% and refractory in 27%, while 47% had paracentesis in the previous 6 months. Median LTA was 10 months with a median dose of 40 g/week.Ascites resolved to grade 0-1 in 34% of patients within the first 3 months and 56% at the end of treatment. Predictors of ascites resolution were age (p=0.007), baseline grade of ascites (p=0.007), no paracentesis in the previous 6 months (p=0.001), etiological treatment in the past 12 months or during LTA (p=0.005), weekly albumin dose (p=0.014) and serum albumin concentration of 40 g/L after one month of treatment (p=0.017). Of the 83 patients with refractory ascites at inclusion, 26% had grade 0/1 ascites at the last observation. No severe albumin-related side-effects were reported and only 1% discontinued due to logistic reasons. ConclusionsLTA is feasible as an outpatient treatment for the management of ascites. In the current study, more than half of patients receiving LTA on top of diuretics resolved their ascites, including some with refractory ascites. Predictors of response to LTA provide useful information for tailoring treatment. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONSThe ANSWER randomized clinical trial has shown that long-term albumin treatment (LTA) is an effective approach for the management of patients with cirrhosis and ascites. This observational study provides novel information on target patients, modalities and length of treatment, predictors of ascites resolution, stopping criteria, and clinical trajectories of patients on treatment.LTA is a feasible option in the daily clinical practice for the management of ascites when given on top of diuretics. Rather than an alternative therapy, LTA should be integrated with the other treatments options already available for patients with difficult-to-treat ascites. The predictive factors of response identified in the present study can help physicians to individualize LTA and optimize the decision-making process.

Serum Albumin and Its Influence on Immediate Outcomes in Children with Congenital Heart Disease Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Background: Hypoalbuminemia is associated with morbidity and mortality in critically ill children and is a well-recognized predictor of general surgical risk. It frequently occurs in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Moreover, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)-induces an inflammatory response, and the overall surgical stress can affect albumin concentration greatly Objective: To estimate pre-operative, per-operative and post-operative serum albumin level and to see its influence on immediate outcomes in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Paediatric cardiology department, BSMMU in a view to find out the influence of pre-operative, per-operative and post-operative serum albumin level on immediate outcomes in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass(CPB).The study included total 48 patients of CHD who underwent CPB. Patients were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Result: Mean pre-operative serum albumin was 3.5±0.9 mg/dl whereas per-operative and post-operative serum albumin was 3.3±0.7mg/dl and 3.1±0.7 mg/dl respectively.CPB time was a bit higher in study population (98.4± 29.1min) where as other outcome parameters were within normal range. Duration of hospital stay was 12.2±3.1days. 22 patient (45.8%) developed valvular regurgitation and 6 patient (12.5%) developed pericardial effusion in post-operative echocardiography. Infection was evident by positive blood culture in 7 patients (14.8%). Pre, per and post-operative hypoalbuminaemia was associated with poor outcome after CPB. Conclusion: Pre, per and post-operative hypoalbuminaemia is a prudent indicator for speculating poor immediate outcome following CPB in children with CHD. (Bangladesh Heart Journal 2024; 39(2): 121-126

Nutritional and safety assessment of aqueous extract of nutmeg seeds, Myristica fragrans

Nutmeg, Myristica fragrans is used as a spice or medicinal plant to manage ailments. This study evaluated the nutritional and safety assessment of an aqueous extract of Myristica fragrans in Wistar rats. Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 180 - 240 g were randomly distributed into five groups: Control received distilled water, while 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg body weight represented the treatment groups, respectively. The extract was orally administered to the animals for 28 days and then euthanized under anesthesia. Blood, serum, and liver homogenates from rats were used for biochemical analysis. The phytate and tannin contents were 0.38 mg/100 g and 0.15 mg/100 g, respectively. The calculated phytic acid to zinc ratio was 0.12. The respective percentage proximate components of the extract include moisture, ash, fat, protein, and carbohydrates: 10.61%, 45.42%, 5.95%, 1.81%, 13.78%, and 22.43%, respectively. Sodium, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, manganese, and lead were present in the extract. There was a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and acid phosphatase (ALP) activity in the groups treated with the extract compared to the control groups. Similarly, there was a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in serum total bilirubin and albumin concentrations in the extract treatment groups compared to control groups. On the contrary, there was a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the liver AST and ALP activity in the treatment groups compared to the control. The liver total protein and albumin concentrations showed a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the extract treatment groups compared to the control. There was a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the pack cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), Mean cell volume (MCV), and platelet (PLT) levels in the animals in the extract treatment groups compared to the control group. Myristica fragrans is abundant in essential nutrients crucial for maintaining optimal physiological functions within the body, however, it is important to avoid excessive dosage or prolonged consumption which might be toxic to liver cells. Key words: Myristica, animals, tannins, phytic acid, chemical and drug Induced liver injury, minerals

Retracted: Impact of Moderate Intensity Exercise on Serum Albumin Concentration

RETRACTED: This is with regard to final Decision regarding complaint raised by Dr. Tasleem Arif.Though Hozaifa bin Asif, submitted his apology in this regard and as per telephonic conversation with Dr. Tasleem Arif he admits that our conflict has settled down after the apology and he will email the withdrawal of his complaint but after few reminders and found no response from Dt Tasleem Arif.Instead, we received an email of supervisor Dr. Syed Zia ul Islam requesting to settle the issue my adding their names in the article under question.At this stage we are unable to Add or subtract any author from the article, as to date matter is not solved between the parties, Hence our decision is to RETRACT the said article as we have provided both sides enough time to settle their issues at their end.

Kadar Protein, Kadar Albumin, dan Tingkat Kesukaan Brownies Mocaf Ikan Gabus

Background: Brownies are generally made from wheat flour, but can be made with local food mocaf flour. Mocaf protein is lower than wheat flour, wheat flour has 8-13% protein while mocaf has 1.2% protein content. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine the addition of snakehead fish to protein levels, albumin levels, and preference test for mocaf brownies.The addition of snakehead fish to mocaf brownies aims to increase protein levels. Snakehead fish contains high protein and albumin,protein of 16.2g/100g and albumin content of 6.224g/100g. Preference test is researched to find out brownies are acceptable to consumers. Method: The study used the Complete Randomized Design experimental method with the additionof snakehead fish 0%;7.3%;9.6%;11.7%, repetition 6 times. Protein content testing is carried out by the kjeldahl method, albumin levels by the biuret method and preference levels by organoleptic tests. Data analysis of protein levels and albumin levels using the ANOVA one-way test, and analysis of favorability data using the Friedman Test test then proceed to the Wilcoxon test. Results: The test results of protein levels and albumin levels get a value of p &gt;0.05, namely the addition of snakehead fish does not have a significant effect. The results of the favorability leveltest on color, aroma, taste get a value of p &lt; 0.05 that the addition of snakehead fish has a significant effect and the texture of p &gt; 0.05 is not significant. Test results with the addition of snakehead fish with the highest protein content and albumin content treatment 11.7%, the highest color test at 7.3% and 9.6%, the highest aroma test at 9.6%, the highest taste and texture test at 7.3%. Keywords : Albumin Levels, Mocaf Brownies, Preference Levels, Protein Levels, Snakehead Fish

Postoperative Nutritional Assessment of Laparoscopic Versus Open Partial Hepatectomy.

No studies have investigated the advantage of laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) compared with open hepatectomy (OH) from a nutritional perspective. This study aimed to compare the postoperative nutritional status between LH and OH. A total of 186 patients who underwent partial hepatic resection for liver tumors were analyzed retrospectively. We compared perioperative variables between LH and OH. The nutritional status was assessed using serum albumin (Alb) and rapid turnover protein concentrations. We investigated risk factors for postoperative malnutrition using univariate and multivariate analyses. The LH group, compared with the OH group, had a significantly shorter operative time (239 vs. 344 min, p<0.03), less intraoperative blood loss (100 vs. 343 g, p<0.01), and a shorter length of postoperative stay (8 vs. 11 days, p<0.01). Postoperative serum Alb and prealbumin concentrations in the LH group were significantly higher than those in the OH group (3.4 vs. 3.2 g/dl, p<0.01; 15.0 vs. 12.0 mg/dl, p=0.02, respectively). The multivariate analysis showed that OH (p=0.02) and hepatocellular carcinoma (p<0.01) were significant and independent risk factors for postoperative malnutrition. LH may be superior to OH in terms of the postoperative nutritional status, intraoperative blood loss, and length of postoperative stay.

Phlorotannin Alleviates Liver Injury by Regulating Redox Balance, Apoptosis, and Ferroptosis of Broilers under Heat Stress.

Heat stress (HS) poses a great challenge to the poultry industry by inducing oxidative damage to the liver, endangering the health and production of broilers. As an important type of seaweed polyphenols, phlorotannin has been shown to have antioxidant properties. The present study evaluated the protective effects of dietary phlorotannin on HS-induced liver injury in broilers based on oxidative damage parameters. A total of 108 twenty-one days old male Arbor Acres plus (AA+) broilers were randomly divided into three groups: TN group (thermoneutral, 24 ± 1 °C, fed with basal diet), HS group (HS, 33 ± 1 °C for 8 h/day, fed with basal diet), and HS + phlorotannin group (HS + 600 mg/kg phlorotannin). Each group has six replicate cages with six birds per cage. The feeding experiment lasted 21 days. At the termination of the feeding experiment (42 days old), samples were collected for analysis of morphological and biochemical features. The results showed that HS decreased the liver index, serum albumin (ALB) content, hepatic antioxidant enzymes activities of catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.05), while increasing the hepatic histopathology score, apoptosis rate, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content (p < 0.05) in 42-day-old broilers. Compared with the HS group, dietary phlorotannin improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes (GST and GSH-Px) but decreased the histopathology score and apoptosis rate in the liver (p < 0.05). Moreover, HS down-regulated hepatic mRNA expression of CAT1, NQO1, HO-1, and SLC7A11 (p < 0.05), while up-regulated hepatic mRNA expression of Keap1, MafG, IκBα, NF-κB P65, IFN-γ, TFR1, ACSL4, Bax, and Caspase-9 (p < 0.05). Compared with HS group, dietary phlorotannin up-regulated hepatic mRNA expression of Nrf2, CAT1, MafF, GSTT1, NQO1, HO-1, GCLC, GPX1, TNF-α, Fpn1, and SLC7A11 (p < 0.05), while down-regulated hepatic mRNA expression of IκBα, Bax, Caspase-9, and TFR1 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 600 mg/kg phlorotannin could alleviate HS-induced liver injury via regulating oxidative status, apoptosis, and ferroptosis in broilers; these roles of phlorotannin might be associated with the regulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Clinical efficacy and computed tomography diagnostic value of bedaquiline‐containing regimens in the treatment of drug‐resistant pulmonary tuberculosis

AbstractObjectiveThis study investigated the clinical efficacy of bedaquiline‐containing regimens in the treatment of drug‐resistant pulmonary tuberculosis and the diagnostic value of computed tomography (CT).MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and CT imaging data of patients with drug‐resistant pulmonary tuberculosis treated in Wenzhou Central Hospital from 1 January to 31 December 2022. According to whether the treatment regimen contained bedaquiline, the patients were divided into an observation group (bedaquiline tablets + background regimen) and a control group (background regimen). The clinical efficacy and pulmonary CT changes before and after treatment were analyzed in both groups.ResultsAfter 24 weeks of treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in the white blood cell count or concentrations of hemoglobin, alanine aminotransferase, serum albumin, or creatinine between the two groups (t = 0.71, 0.93, 0.05, 0.18, and 0.08, respectively; p &gt; 0.05). After 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in the sputum culture‐negative conversion rate between the two groups (χ2 = 2.67, 0.48, and 1.82, respectively; p &gt; 0.05). At 24 weeks of treatment, the sputum culture‐negative conversion rate in the observation group reached 100%, which was significantly higher than that in the control group (χ2 = 3.97, p &lt; 0.05). The effective absorption rates on chest imaging in the two groups of patients at 12 weeks were 83.33% and 57.89%, respectively. At 24 weeks of treatment, the effective absorption rates were 88.00% and 65.85% in the two groups, with a statistically significant difference (χ2 = 3.98; p &lt; 0.05). There were significant differences in cavity absorption at 24 weeks (χ2 = 4.33, p &lt; 0.05) and 48 weeks after treatment (χ2 = 10.63, p &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThe addition of bedaquiline to the background regimen improved the sputum culture‐negative conversion rate and chest imaging effective rate. Patients achieved good results at the end of the 24‐week treatment period.

CLINICAL AND PARACLINICAL ASPECTS OF INTESTINAL FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS IN INFANTS

The aim of the work – to conduct an analysis of risk factors, clinical characteristics andresults of paraclinical examination of disorders of the functional state of the intestine ininfants who had a history of perinatal pathology.Materials and methods. A comprehensive clinical and paraclinical examination of 60infants during the period of catamnetic observation was carried out. The І group consistedof 36 children aged 6-7 months with disorders of the functional state of the gastrointestinaltract, the ІІ group – 25 healthy children of the same age category. The functional state ofthe intestines was assessed by determining the content of albumin, alpha-1-antitrypsin,elastase, PMN-elastase and fecal calprotectin levels in stools using the enzyme- linkedimmunosorbent assay (ELISA), reagents of the Immundiagnostic AG (Germany) companybased on German- Ukrainian laboratory «BUKINMED» (Chernivtsi, Ukraine).The results. Symptoms of disorders of the functional state of the intestines in infants are:restlessness and prolonged crying, poor sucking, loss of appetite, refusal to eat, vomiting,tendency to loose stools or constipation, flatulence and intestinal colic, body weightdeficiency. In the coprofiltrate of children of the I group, who had the signs of the functionalstate disorders of the intestine, compared with the control group, an increase in the contentof fecal calprotectin, alpha-1-antitrypsin, PMN-elastase and albumin was found, which areinterdependent criteria of the digestive system dysfunction. Laboratory indicators can actas markers of food intolerance and indicate the presence of local neutrophilic inflammation. Conclusions. Violations of the functional state of the intestines in infants havea multifactorial etiology caused by a combination of adverse effects of ante- and perinatalfactors on the fetal body, the development of perinatal pathology in newborns, as well asthe presence of diseases of the neonatal period.

Feeding almond hulls to light lambs: Effects on growth performance, digestive utilization and blood metabolites

The effects of including almond hulls (AH) in the concentrate fed to light lambs on animal performance, diet utilization, and blood metabolites. Three isonitrogenous and isoenergetic concentrates were formulated with either 0 (control), 6 (AH6) or 12 (AH12) g of AH per 100 g (fresh matter basis). Thirty Manchega breed lambs (15 males and 15 females; 12.3 ± 0.18 kg body weight (BW)) were distributed into six homogeneous groups according to BW (3 groups of each sex), which were randomly assigned within sex to each experimental concentrate. Lambs were fed concentrate and barley straw ad libitum until reaching about 23.0 kg BW. There were no differences (P ≥ 0.182) between groups in final BW, intake of concentrate and straw, and feed conversion rate. Average daily gain and digestibility of dry matter and crude protein tended (P < 0.10) to decrease by the AH inclusion in the concentrate. Lambs fed AH12 showed greater (P < 0.05) urinary losses than those fed the control concentrate (15.4 and 11.5 g per 100 g of N intake, respectively), despite the similar N intake in all groups. Feeding AH did not affect (P ≥ 0.213) blood concentrations of albumin, globulins, urea, creatinine, glucose, total bilirubin and cholesterol or blood activities of hepatic enzymes. The post-mortem analysis revealed no differences among groups in pH and total volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentrations in the rumen of lambs, but NH3-N concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) in the lambs fed the concentrates with AH. In addition, lambs fed AH12 diet had lower (P < 0.05) molar proportions of propionate and greater (P < 0.05) proportions of butyrate compared with lambs fed control and AH6 concentrate. In general, no concentrate x sex interactions were observed, and sex had no effect on the measured parameters except for some differences in ruminal VFA profile. In conclusion, AH can be included at in light lambs’ concentrate up to 12 g per 100 g of concentrate without impairing animal growth.

Long-term prognostic effect of serum albumin concentration in diabetic patients with stable coronary artery disease: A multicenter cohort study.

Diabetes and insulin resistance alter the physiological state of serum albumin (SA), which is a prognostic marker for stable coronary artery disease (CAD). However, whether the SA concentration is associated with long-term cardiovascular (CV) outcomes in diabetic patients with stable CAD remains unclear. In total, 1148 patients were retrospectively identified from a nationwide multicenter cohort study on patients with stable CAD. They were categorized into four groups according to their diabetes mellitus (DM) status and SA concentration (cutoff: 4 g/dL). The patients' mean age was 62.5 years, and 83.5% were male. Of the total patients, 405 were included in group 1 (SA ≥ 4/non-DM), 322 in group 2 (SA < 4/non-DM), 201 in group 3 (SA ≥ 4/ DM), and 220 in group 4 (SA < 4/DM). Group 4 had the oldest age and a higher prevalence of prior myocardial infarction and stroke. During the median 4.5-year follow up (interquartile range: 1.5-6.7 year), the highest and lowest survival rates in terms of all-cause and CV mortality were found in groups 1 and 4, respectively. However, no prognostic differences were noted in nonfatal stroke and myocardial infarction among the groups. The data were consistent after covariate adjustment. Using group 1 as the reference, HRs (95% CIs) for all-cause mortality in groups 2, 3, and 4 were 3.64 (1.22-10.83), 3.26 (0.95-11.33), and 5.74 (1.92-16.95), respectively, and those for CV mortality were 2.8 (0.57-13.67), 2.62 (0.40-17.28), and 6.15 (1.32-28.58), respectively. In diabetic patients with stable CAD, a low SA concentration (<4 g/dL) was associated with increased long-term mortality regardless of all-cause or CV reasons but not nonfatal CV events.