Biochemical Profile Research Articles

Viscoelastic coagulation monitoring parameters in cats with acute arterial thromboembolism.

Hypercoagulability has been documented in cats with cardiac disease. However, hemostatic parameters, including viscoelastic coagulation monitoring (VCM) have not been reported in cats with arterial thromboembolism (ATE). Compare VCM parameters in cats with acute cardiogenic ATE and in control cats. Sixteen cats with ATE and 30 control cats. Multicenter university-based prospective study. Cardiogenic ATE was diagnosed based on physical examination and by ultrasonographically-diagnosed left atrial enlargement. Viscoelastic coagulation monitor analysis, CBC, serum biochemistry profile and coagulation profile were performed at admission in cats with ATE. Analysis from healthy control cats was performed using blood collected by direct venipuncture. Our objective was comparison of VCM parameters clot time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), alpha angle (Angle), maximum clot formation (MCF), amplitude at 10 and 20 minutes (A10 and A20, respectively) and clot lysis index at 30 and 45 minutes (LI30 and LI45, respectively) between ATE and control cats. Cats with ATE had a decreased angle compared to control cats, with a median (range) of 43° (30-48°) compared to 47° (14-59°; P = .01). The parameters A10, A20 and MCF were decreased in ATE cats compared to control cats with a median (range) of 19 units (8-32) compared to 22 units (6-38), 24.5 units (11-40) compared to 29 units (10-47) and 29.5 units (13-44) compared to 33.5 units (14-53), respectively (P = .01, .01 and .01, respectively). The parameters CT, CFT, LI30 and LI45 were similar between groups (P = .22, .09, .62 and .34, respectively). Cats with cardiogenic ATE cats have VCM parameters consistent with hypocoagulability compared with healthy cats.

Emulation and evaluation of tumor cell combined chemotherapy in isotropic/anisotropic collagen fiber microenvironments.

The rapid emergence of anisotropic collagen fibers in the tissue microenvironment is a critical transition point in late-stage breast cancer. Specifically, the fiber orientation facilitates the likelihood of high-speed tumor cell invasion and metastasis, which pose lethal threats to patients. Thus, based on this transition point, one key issue is how to determine and evaluate efficient combination chemotherapy treatments in late-stage cancer. In this study, we designed a collagen microarray chip containing 241 high-throughput microchambers with embedded metastatic breast cancer cell MDA-MB-231-RFP. By utilizing collagen's unique structure and hydromechanical properties, the chip constructed three-dimensional isotropic and anisotropic collagen fiber structures to emulate the tumor cell microenvironment at early and late stages. We injected different chemotherapeutic drugs into its four channels and obtained composite biochemical concentration profiles. Our results demonstrate that anisotropic collagen fibers promote cell proliferation and migration more than isotropic collagen fibers, suggesting that the geometric arrangement of fibers plays an important role in regulating cell behavior. Moreover, the presence of anisotropic collagen fibers may be a potential factor leading to the poor efficacy of combined chemotherapy in late-stage breast cancer. We investigated the efficacy of various chemotherapy drugs using cell proliferation inhibitors paclitaxel and gemcitabine and tumor cell migration inhibitors 7rh and PP2. To ensure the validity of our findings, we followed a systematic approach that involved testing the inhibitory effects of these drugs. According to our results, the drug combinations' effectiveness could be ordered as follows: paclitaxel + gemcitabine > gemcitabine + 7rh > PP2 + paclitaxel > 7rh + PP2. This study shows that the biomimetic chip system not only facilitates the creation of a realistic in vitro model for examining the cell migration mechanism in late-stage breast cancer but also has the potential to function as an effective tool for future chemotherapy assessment and personalized medicine.

Skeletonema marinoi ecotypes show specific habitat-related responses to fluctuating light supporting high potential for growth under photobioreactor light regime.

Diatoms are a diverse group of phytoplankton usually dominating areas characterized by rapidly shifting light conditions. Because of their high growth rates and interesting biochemical profile, their biomass is considered for various commercial applications. This study aimed at identifyingstrains with superior growth in a photobioreactor (PBR) by screening the natural intraspecific diversity of ecotypes isolated from different habitats. We investigated the effect of PBR light fluctuating on a millisecond scale (FL, simulating the light in a PBR) on 19 ecotypes of the diatom Skeletonema marinoi isolated from the North Sea-Baltic Sea area. We compare growth, pigment ratios, phylogeny, photo-physiological variables and photoacclimation strategies between all strains and perform qPCR and absorption spectra analysis on a subset of strains. Our results show that the ecotypes responded differently to FL, and have contrasting photo-physiological and photoprotective strategies. The strains from Kattegat performed better in FL, and shared common photoacclimation and photoprotection strategies that are the results of adaptation to the specific light climate of the Kattegat area. The strains that performed better with FL conditions had a high light (HL)-acclimated phenotype coupled with unique nonphotochemical quenching features. Based on their characteristics, three strains were identified as good candidates for growth in PBRs.

Label free quantitative proteomic profiling of serum samples of intellectually disabled young patients revealed dysregulation of complement coagulation and cholesterol cascade systems.

Intellectual disability is a heterogeneous disorder, diagnosed using intelligence quotient (IQ) score criteria. Currently, no specific clinical test is available to diagnose the disease and its subgroups due to inadequate understanding of the pathophysiology. Therefore, current study was designed to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in disease perturbation, and to identify potential biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prognosis. A total of 250 participants were enrolled in this study, including 200 intellectually disabled (ID) subjects from the subgroups (mild, moderate, and severe) with age and gender matched healthy controls (n = 50). Initially, IQ testing score and biochemical profile of each subject was generated, followed by label-free quantitative proteomics of subgroups of IQ and healthy control group through nano-LC/MS- mass spectrometry. A total of 310 proteins were identified, among them198 proteins were common among all groups. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) of the subgroups of ID showed 142 differentially expressed proteins, in comparison to healthy control group. From these, 120 proteins were found to be common among all subgroups. The remaining 22 proteins were categorized as exclusive proteins found only in disease subgroups. Furthermore, the hierarchical cluster analysis (HCL) of common significant proteins was also performed, followed by PANTHER protein classification and GO functional enrichment analysis. Results provides that the datasets of differentially expressed proteins, belong to the categories of immune / defense proteins, transfer carrier proteins, apolipoproteins, complement proteins, protease inhibitors, hemoglobin proteins etc., they are known to involvein immune system, and complement and coagulation pathway cascade and cholesterol metabolism pathway. Exclusively expressed 22 proteins were found to be disease stage specific and strong PPI network specifically those that have significant role in platelets activation and degranulation, such as Filamin A (FLNA). Furthermore, to validate the mass spectrometric findings, four highly significant proteins (APOA4, SAP, FLNA, and SERPING) were quantified by ELISA in all the study subjects. AUROC analysis showed a significant association of APOA4 (0.830), FLNA (0.958), SAP (0.754) and SERPING (0.600) with the disease. Apolipoprotein A4 (APOA4) has a significant role in cholesterol transport, and in modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism in the CNS. Similarly, FLNA has a crucial role in the nervous system, especially in the functioning of synaptic network. Therefore, both APOA4, and FLNA proteins represent good potential for candidate biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of the intellectual disability. Overall, serum proteome of ID patients provides valuable information of proteins/pathways that are altered during ID progression.

Incidence of Various Types of Bleeding Disorders Associated with Canine Vector Borne Diseases in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Background: Animals with various stages of bleeding tendencies are often presented with obvious blood loss and life threatening complications, although some animals are relatively stable, showing only minimal clinical signs. Canine vector-borne diseases and associated bleeding disorders are commonly encountered in routine practice with high morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis, therapeutic outcome and management of bleeding disorders have always been challenging. The objective is to study the incidence of various types of bleeding disorders with their clinical features in CVBD in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Methods: During the study period (2018-2020) a total of 76, 051 dogs were presented to the Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital, Chennai. Sixteen thousand five hundred and twenty nine (16529) dogs were presented with signs of bleeding disorders. Dogs affected with vector borne diseases had various stages of bleeding tendencies (1593 dogs) were subjected to detailed clinical, haematological, biochemical and coagulation profile assessments. Under each etiological group, the dogs were further divided into three groups based on various stages bleeding disorders in order to evaluate the clinicopathological changes in dogs. Result: The observed incidence of bleeding disorders due to canine vector borne diseases in this study were Babesiosis 41.87 per cent, Ehrlichiosis 52.7 per cent and hepatozoonosis 5.5 per cent. The incidence of Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis and H. canis in the study population was found to be 5.2 per cent, 4.04 per cent and 0.53 per cent. Dogs due to E. canis, 51 per cent had anaemia and thrombocytopenia, 26.1 per cent had pancytopenia and 22.9 per cent had pancytopenia and DIC. Dogs due to B. gibsoni, 47.7 per cent had anaemia and thrombocytopenia, 28.5 per cent had pancytopenia and 23.8 per cent had pancytopenia and DIC.

Impact of Cross‐Linking on the Physicochemical and Physiological Characteristics of Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) Grains Starch

Barnyard millet starch (Echinochloa frumentacea) has been investigated for its potential in drug delivery systems due to its unique properties. This study examined the physicochemical and physiological properties of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch (BMS) using varying concentrations of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). Physicochemical and physiological properties of the cross‐linked starches are analyzed. Cross‐linking resulted in reduced swelling capacity and solubility of starch samples. Morphological analysis revealed rough surfaces with cavities and minute cracks in cross‐linked starches. Acute and sub‐acute toxicity studies in test animals indicated no adverse effects, with LD50 values within acceptable limits at 2000 mg kg−1. Hematological, biochemical, and lipid profiles showed no significant alterations compared to the control group. The study demonstrated a low acute toxicity level and favorable safety profile for STPP‐cross‐linked starch. These findings highlighted the potential of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch as a carrier in drug delivery system and for food applications. This study supports the potential of cross‐linked barnyard millet starch in pharmaceutical formulations.

Safety Assessment of Ciprofloxacin and Roxithromycin through Haematological and Biochemical Profiling in Poultry

The concurrent therapeutic application of ciprofloxacin and roxithromycin has been suggested as a potential approach for addressing mixed bacterial infections in poultry. The present investigation aimed to determine the hematological and biochemical safety profile of concurrently administered ciprofloxacin and roxithromycin through the oral route in poultry. This study involved a total of sixteen birds, which were divided into two equal but random groups of broiler chickens. In the first group, roxithromycin alone was administered orally for five days. Conversely, the Group II birds received repeated concurrent doses of roxithromycin and ciprofloxacin for consecutive five days adhering to their recommended therapeutic dosages. In both groups, blood samples were collected at various intervals, including before drug administration (0 days), and at 6 hours, 12 hours, 1st day, 2nd day, 3rd day, 4th day, 5th day, 7th day, and 10th day. Following haematological and biochemical analyses, a two-way statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05) was conducted utilizing unpaired ‘t-tests’ to compare parameters within the group across various time points and between Groups I and II. The analysis revealed statistically significant differences in haematological parameters such as heterophils, lymphocytes and monocytes, along with one biochemical parameter, specifically aspartate transaminase. Notably, the altered values primarily remained within the normal range and were often attributed to age-related changes, with certain fluctuations being of a temporary nature and reverting to normal levels by the 10th Day. The study findings support the conclusion that the concurrent oral administration of roxithromycin and ciprofloxacin appears to be safe for therapeutic use in poultry.

Prognostic utility of point-of-care measured bioadrenomedullin in patients presenting with acute heart failure at the emergency department

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Acute heart failure (AHF) is a severe condition that is frequently encountered in the emergency department (ED). We aimed to investigate the role of bioadrenomedullin (bio-ADM)- a molecule previously shown to be associated with clinical congestion- as an early prognostic marker for short-term outcomes in patients presenting with AHF in the ED. Methods Seventy-six AHF patients were prospectively enrolled upon ED presentation. Clinical, echocardiography, standard laboratory and cardiac biomarker assessments were performed. Bio-ADM was measured from whole blood sample using a commercially available point-of-care immunoassay. We examined prognostic utility of bio-ADM for predicting 30-day mortality. Results Study group consisted of 61% males, of mean(±SD) age 71±13years, systolic blood pressure (SBP) 140±41mmHg, categorized according to AHF clinical phenotypes as 15(20%) pulmonary edema, 53(70%) decompensated chronic HF and 8(10%) cardiogenic shock. Median (IQR) creatinine, NTproBNP, hsTroponinT and bio-ADM were: 1.15(0.90-1.83)mg/dl, 5094(2836-12816)pg/ml, 38(24-91)pg/ml and 52.3(45-113)pg/ml, respectively. Levels of bio-ADM were higher in patients with cardiogenic shock compared to acute pulmonary edema and decompensated chronic HF [median (IQR): 266.8(101.9-500)pg/ml, 49.8(45-67.5)pg/ml and 47.4(45-97.5)pg/ml, respectively], (p=0.019). Log(bio-ADM) was significantly correlated with SBP (Spearman rho= -0.387, p=0.003), logCreatinine (rho=0.430, p<0.001), log(NTproBNP) (rho=0.430, p=0.003) and log(hsTroponinT) (rho= 0.386, p=0.003). During 30-days follow-up, 15 patients died. In ROC analysis, a bio-ADM cutoff of 64.8pg/ml predicted 30-day mortality with 75% sensitivity and 65% specificity (AUC 0.763, p=0.017). In a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model that included log(bio-ADM), log(NTproBNP) and logCreatinine and adjusted for AHF phenotype, only log(bio-ADM) seemed to be independently prognostic of 30-day mortality (HR,95%CI: 5.80, 0.97-34.66, p=0.054). Conclusions In a broad AHF population, point-of-care bio-ADM measured upon presentation at the ED is associated with worse clinical and biochemical AHF profiles and may provide independent prognostic information for 30-day mortality.30-day mortality by bio-ADM ≥ vs <64.8

Characterization of Betalain Content and Antioxidant Activity Variation Dynamics in Table Beets (Beta vulgaris L.) with Differently Colored Roots

Antioxidant properties, betalain profiles and biochemical composition were studied in table beets with maroon and yellow root colors. Features of dynamic changes during the growing season were described. Significant differences in antioxidant activity were found in table beet accessions with differently colored roots. Negative dynamics of antioxidant activity were observed in all accessions. Statistically significant differences were registered among the accessions in the total amounts of phenolic compounds, chlorophylls, and betalains. The group of maroon accessions demonstrated strong positive correlations between their antioxidant activity and total phenolics (r = 0.91), antioxidant activity and betacyanins (r = 0.80), and between betacyanins and phenolics (r = 0.90). The antioxidant activity in the accessions with yellow roots was associated with chlorophyll b (r = 0.85), ascorbic acid (r = 0.83), and total phenolics (r = 0.83). The data are presented on the structure of betalains in two table beet groups contrasting in their root color. The results of the study made it possible to identify key components in the biochemical profile of differently colored beetroots, associated with their high antioxidant activity. Dynamic changes were shown for the antioxidant activity and fractional composition of betalains in table beet during its growing season, and a conclusion was made concerning the higher nutritional value of maroon cultivars.

Regulation of Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats by Egyptian Sidr Honey.

Diabetesmellitusis a global health issuecharacterized by hyperglycemia which leads over time to severe damage to numerous tissues.The present study aimed to estimate the effect of Egyptian Sidr honey against streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. Diabetic rats were treated with Sidr honey daily for 4 consecutive weeks. The biochemical profile of blood samples was measured. Furthermore, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, nitric oxide (NO), and malonaldehyde (MDA) were examined in liver and pancreas tissues. Moreover, the expression of Bax, Caspase-3, and Bcl2 proteins were measured. Results revealed that the capability of Sidr honey to decline the elevated blood glucose and fructosamine levels compared to diabetic rats. Also, the honey decreased the levels of NO and MDA. Furthermore, it regulated the antioxidant enzymes activity. Moreover, it reduced the expression levels of Caspase-3 and Bax while increased the Bcl2 level. In conclusion, Sidr honey can regulate hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and antioxidant enzymes in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Sub-chronic Toxicity Study of Heracleumlasiopetalum Extract Towards Healthy Sprague Dawley Rats

Background: Heracleum species are commonly used as spices, flavorings, and food additives. Members of the genus Heracleum offer many medicinal benefits but may also pose adverse effects on human health. Objectives: To prepare a crude leaf extract of Heracleumlasiopetalum and assess its toxicity profile towards healthy rats. Methods: The H. lasiopetalum leaf extract was prepared using pure methanol and ethyl acetate (1:10) at room temperature over a period of 72 hours. After filtration, the crude extract was obtained using a rotary evaporator at 40 - 45°C. Subsequently, various doses of the H. lasiopetalum extract were administered orally to healthy Sprague Dawley rats at three doses (300, 600, and 900 mg/kg body weight) for four weeks to test for toxicity. Blood samples were examined for hematologic and biochemical changes, while the liver, kidneys, and heart were examined for histopathological changes. Results: The toxicity study revealed no mortality at low and medium doses, as well as no clinical toxicity indicators. Additionally, there were no significant alterations observed in the haematological, biochemical, and histopathological profiles of the treated animals throughout the 28-day experiment. However, at high doses, the mortality rate was significantly elevated, accompanied by notable histopathological changes. Conclusions: Continuous administration of high doses of H. lasiopetaum may induce potential toxic effects in the treated animals.

Effects of a blend of acidifiers added continuously to the drinking water of nursery piglets

Context Adding organic and inorganic acids to the drinking water is a potential alternative to improve production results in nursery piglets, and a strategy for reducing the use of antimicrobials. Aims To assess the effects of adding a blend of organic and inorganic acids to drinking water on the oxireduction potential (ORP) of water, and growth performance, biochemical, antioxidant and blood gas profiles, intestinal morphometry, biometry of organs, and intestinal microbiome of nursery piglets. Methods Experiment involved 1080 female piglets assessed over 30 days (Landrace × Large White, weaned at 26 days of age, weighing 6.8 ± 0.29 kg), randomly assigned to the following three treatments: (1) piglets received drinking water of natural pH of 7.39 (pH7.39), (2) piglets received drinking water of pH of 5.31 (pH5.31), and (3) piglets received drinking water of pH of 3.40 (pH3.40), with eight replicates and 45 piglets/stall. Piglets had ad libitum access to diet and water throughout the experiment, and received different diets in each phase. Key results Receiving drinking water of pH3.40 promoted a higher ORP, and a lower total water consumption was observed in Starter II piglets with pH5.31. There was no treatment effect on the performance, but mortality was lower in starter piglets in the pH3.40 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment had lower blood alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, differing from the result obtained for total cholesterol concentrations. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower concentration of total protein than did piglets in the pH7.39 treatment. Piglets in the pH3.40 treatment had higher weights of empty stomach, spleen, and liver with gallbladder than did those in the pH7.39 treatment. Animals in the pH3.40 treatment showed a lower relative abundance of the Escherichia–Shigella genus and bacteria of Enterobacteriaceae family than did those in the pH5.31 treatment. Conclusions Acidification of drinking water to pH3.40 for nursery piglets can be used to partially increase the ORP of the water, and promote a greater weight of organs with metabolic and immune functions, while decreasing mortality. In addition, acidification of drinking water does not compromise performance or intestinal histology, but improves the profile of the intestinal microbiome in piglets. Implications This research has provided new information on the effects of acidifiers in the drinking water for nursery piglets and has shown their potential use for bolstering general health.

A biochemical feedback signal for hypothermia treatment for neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy: focusing on central nervous system proteins in biofluids

Hypothermia has been widely used to treat moderate to severe neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), yet evaluating the effects of hypothermia relies on clinical neurology, neuroimaging, amplitude-integrated electroencephalography, and follow-up data on patient outcomes. Biomarkers of brain injury have been considered for estimating the effects of hypothermia. Proteins specific to the central nervous system (CNS) are components of nervous tissue, and once the CNS is damaged, these proteins are released into biofluids (cerebrospinal fluid, blood, urine, tears, saliva), and they can be used as markers of brain damage. Clinical reports have shown that CNS-specific marker proteins (CNSPs) were early expressed in biofluids after brain damage and formed unique biochemical profiles. As a result, these markers may serve as an indicator for screening brain injury in infants, monitoring disease progression, identifying damage region of brain, and assessing the efficacy of neuroprotective measures. In clinical work, we have found that there are few reports on using CNSPs as biological signals in hypothermia for neonatal HIE. The aim of this article is to review the classification, origin, biochemical composition, and physiological function of CNSPs with changes in their expression levels after hypothermia for neonatal HIE. Hopefully, this review will improve the awareness of CNSPs among pediatricians, and encourage future studies exploring the mechanisms behind the effects of hypothermia on these CNSPs, in order to reduce the adverse outcome of neonatal HIE.

Intrinsic cardiac neurons as the consulate general of the brain in the heart: A review

Intrinsic cardiac neurons as the consulate general of the brain in the heart: A review

Changes in Bone Mineral Density in Patients With Non-dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Are Associated With Body Composition

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and low bone mineral density (BMD) are highly prevalent and can co-exist. Parameters of mineral metabolism are associated with BMD in CKD, but other contributing factors may contribute. The aim of this study was to assess changes in BMD and its determinants in patients with non-dialysis-dependent CKD (NDD-CKD). Body composition and biochemical profiles were assessed in a retrospective hospital-based cohort study of patients with NDD-CKD. BMD, lean soft tissue (LST), appendicular LST (ALST), and percentage fat mass were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). ALST index (ALSTI, ALST/height2) and load-capacity index (LCI, fat mass/LST) were calculated. Low BMD was defined as t-score ≤-1.0. Mean time between assessments was 2.8±1.3 years, 46 patients were included. A reduction in renal function was observed. Changes in body composition included reductions in ALST (p=0.031), ALSTI (p=0.021) and a trend for BMD (p=0.053); and an increase in percentage fat mass (p=0.044) and LCI (p=0.032). Females had a reduction in BMD (p=0.034), ALST (p=0.026), and ALSTI (p=0.037). Patients with low BMD at baseline had lower LST (p=0.013), ALST (p=0.023), and percentage fat mass (p=0.037) than those with normal BMD. Additionally, reductions in LST (p=0.041), ALST (p=0.006), and ALSTI (p=0.008) were observed in patients who had low BMD at baseline, while no significant changes in body composition were observed in those with normal BMD at baseline. The following body composition parameters at baseline were determinants of BMD status at follow-up: LST (OR:0.899, 95%CI:0.829-0.976, p=0.010), ALST (OR:0.825, 95%CI:0.704-0.967, p=0.017), and ALSTI (OR:0.586, 95%CI:0.354-0.968, p=0.037), independent of fat mass, and LCI. Detrimental body composition changes were observed without changes in body weight; these were more significant in females. Moreover, this is the first longitudinal study showing a protective effect of LST against BMD loss in patients with NDD-CKD.

RETRACTION: Biochemical profile of milk thistle (Silybum Marianum L.) with special reference to silymarin content.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.1990.].

Interplay of hormones and metabolite excretion with fern pattern prove saliva as a potent indicator of male reproductive status in Kangayam breed cattle.

Kangayam cattle are one of the drought breeds in India with distinct attributes. Agricultural transformation has led to a decline in many pure-breed indigenous cattle, including the Kangayam breed. Hence, a study on the reproductive physiology of male Kangayam breed cattle is necessary to disentangle problems in the area of livestock improvement. In this study, we investigated the relationship between serum hormones and bio-constituents and ascertained the potential of saliva as an indicator of the reproductive status of Kangayam cattle (Bos indicus). The present study confirms that cholesterol was higher in intact males and lower in prepubertal and castrated males. Testosterone levels were also higher in intact males than in castrated or prepubertal males. Hence, it can be inferred that high cholesterol levels contribute to active derivatization of testosterone in intact males. In contrast, reduced cholesterol availability leads to decreased testosterone synthesis in castrated and prepubertal males. Furthermore, it is reasonable to speculate that testosterone could have influenced salivary fern patterns in intact males, and thus, fern-like crystallization in the saliva was apparent. The unique salivary compounds identified through GC-MS across various reproductive statuses of Kangayam males may advertise their physiological status to conspecifics. In addition, the presence of odorant-binding protein(OBP) in saliva further supports its role in olfactory communication. This study attested to a posssible interlink between gonadal status and serum biochemical profiles. The salivary fern pattern revealed in this study can be used as a predictive tool, and the presence of putative volatiles and OBP adds evidence to the role of saliva in chemical communication.

A study of carotid intima media thickness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and its correlation with acute phase reactants and disease activity

Introduction: There is increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to accelerated atherosclerosis. In this study we measured Carotid artery intima media thickness (CIMT) as a surrogate marker for subclinical atherosclerosis in RA patients without pre-existing cardiovascular disease. This study also analyzed the correlation between CIMT, disease duration, Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) and acute phase reactants. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 patients divided into two groups of 45 patients of RA and another 45 control subjects. Subjects with RA and age and sex matched healthy controls were included in the study without pre-existing CV risk factors. Complete clinical evaluation, hematological and biochemical profile done. ESR, CRP and platelet count were used as markers of acute phase reactants. All the RA patients included in the study were evaluated for their disease activity using Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI). All the subjects including the controls evaluated for carotid intima media thickness by using carotid ultrasonography. CIMT measured in common carotid artery bilaterally by examining throughout common carotid artery up to 2 cm proximal to bifurcation. CIMT measurement taken at the site of greatest thickness. All measurements taken in diastole, measured in phase when lumen diameter is at its smallest and IMT at its largest. Mean value of 6 readings (3 from each side) taken as final CIMT for evaluation. B mode (linear probe) USG was used to determine carotid IMT. Results: 45 cases and similar control subjects included in the study with mean age (SD) as 45.07 (14.81) years. We found female preponderance with 37 females out of 45 cases. Mean (SD) disease duration in male subjects was 5.38(2.40) years while in females was 5.09 (2.78) years. CRP was found to be significantly increased in cases group with mean (SD) of 5.75(8.85) mg/dl. ESR significantly raised to 35.22(13.55) mm/hour in cases group compared to control group where it was 16.16(5.71) mm/hr. Mean (SD) platelets (x10³/mm³) were 229.24(69.80) in cases while controls had 290.33(83.85), so platelets correlation with disease could not be established. CIMT was significantly raised in cases group. Mean (SD) CIMT in cases was 0.95(1.06) mm whereas in control group it was 0.60(0.16) mm with p value of 0.002. Moderate positive correlation was found between CIMT (mm) and SDAI and this correlation was statistically significant with p=0.001. For every 1 unit increase in CIMT, the SDAI increases by 2.92 units. A strong positive correlation between CIMT (mm) and Disease Duration (Years), and this correlation was statistically significant (rho = 0.9, p = <0.001). For every 1 unit increase in CIMT (mm), the Disease Duration (Years) increases by 1.26 units. Conversely, for every 1 unit increase in Disease Duration (Years), the CIMT (mm) increases by 0.19 units. Conclusion: A strong correlation was observed between CIMT and disease duration in rheumatoid arthritis. Hence, CIMT can be a useful surrogate marker for detecting atherosclerosis in patients with RA. In view of the relation to duration of disease, established RA patients should regularly be screened to identify the evidence of atherosclerosis and manage it earlier. Prevention of cardiovascular disease in RA requires an integrated approach encompassing cardiovascular risk factors screening and management, effective and sustained control of RA disease activity, high index of suspicion and prompt investigation of suspected cardiac disease.

Isolating Indigenous Metal Resistant Gram-Positive Bacteria: Assessing Their Selenite Reduction Potential

The objective of this study is to isolate gram-positive bacilli from soil and to study the effects of physiological parameters on their heavy metal resistance. High levels of metals in the soil can have major toxic effects on soil microorganisms and may cause a great change in the species diversity and population sizes of soil microbes. In current study soil samples were collected from the agriculture drainage water and soil in Lahore. After the selection of sixty gram-positive strains, their biochemical and metabolic profile was structured and all were auxin producing. The isolates were resistant to multiple heavy metals including Ni. Pb, Cr, Li and Hg. Their selenite reduction was estimated at varyingpH, Temperature and concentrations of selenite and all were resistant upto 3000 ?g/ml, However, their efficacy of reducing selenite was majorly affected by set physiological parameters.

Determination of Serum Biochemical Profile and Oxidant-Antioxidant Activities in Damascus Goats at Different Ages

This study aimed to research changes in biochemical profile and oxidant-antioxidant activities of Damascus goats of different ages. The 45 non-gravid Damascus goats of different ages were included in the research. They were divided into three groups of 15 goats according to age: goat kids ( - ≤ 6-months age), young goats (2-3-year age) and old goats (5-8-year age). Biochemical parameters and oxidant-antioxidant activities were determined in serum samples using commercial kits and colorimetric methods. The lowest serum urea, blood urea nitrogen, aspartate aminotransferase, total protein, albumin, globulin and magnesium levels were observed in goat kids (P < .05). Concentrations of glucose, inorganic phosphorus, non-esterified fatty acids, albumin/globulin and alanine aminotransferase decreased with age in the goats (P < .05). Serum total oxidant capacity, total antioxidants capacity and oxidative stress index levels were increased in goat kids compared to old goats (P < .05). Furthermore the highest serum glutathione and glutathione preoxidase activities were observed in young goats (P < .05). An increase was determined in concentrations of serum β-carotene and bilirubin in old goats compared to goat kids (P < .05). In contrast, serum catalase activity, arylesterase, ceruloplasmin and uric acid values did not differ between the groups. The results obtained on the biochemical profiles and oxidant-antioxidant activities of Damascus goats will contribute to monitoring this breed's age-related health and nutritional status and establishing reference values.