Results Of Biochemical Tests Research Articles

Evaluation of the first Candida auris isolates reported from Türkiye in terms of identification by various methods and susceptibility to antifungal drugs

PurposeCandida auris is increasingly being isolated from patients all over the world. It has five clades. In this study, it was aimed to compare the results of biochemical tests obtained using different methods and the antifungal susceptibility profiles of C. auris strains isolated from the first seven cases reported in Türkiye, and evaluate whether this information could be useful as preliminary data in determining the clade of strains in centers that lack the opportunity to apply molecular methods. MethodsIdentification test results obtained using API ID 32 C, API 20 C AUX, VITEK-2 YST, and MALDI-TOF MS; colony color and morphology on Chromagar Candida, CHROMagar Candida Plus media, and cornmeal-Tween 80 agar; susceptibility to antifungals were tested and compared. Antifungal susceptibility test was studied using microdilution method according to the recommendations of EUCAST. Additionally, a pilot study was conducted to investigate the value of CHROMagar Candida Plus. ResultsAll seven strains were identified as Lachancea kluyveri with API ID 32 C, Rhodotorula glutinis; Cryptococcus neoformans with API 20 C AUX, and C. auris with both VITEK-2 YST and MALDI-TOF MS. MIC values for fluconazole were very high (≥64 mg/L) for all seven strains. It was observed that 11 (37.9%) of 29 Candida parapsilosis strains formed colonies with morphology similar to C. auris on CHROMagar Candida Plus medium, leading to false positivity. ConclusionsAlthough there have been many isolations of C. auris in our country in recent years, clade distribution of only a small number of strains is known yet. In this study, when the biochemical properties and antifungal susceptibility profiles of the seven strains were evaluated, it was concluded that they exhibited some characteristics compatible with clade I. It was also observed that strains 1 and 2 may belong to a different clade.

Biochemical indices of blood protein metabolism as criteria of broiler nutrition adequacy

The experiments were conducted on the broiler chickens of the cross "Smena-9" in the vivarium of the Selective Genetic Centre "Zagorskoe Experimental Breeding Farm" in Sergiev Posad. The results of the blood plasma biochemical tests showed wavelike changes in the trypsin activity at all ages stu- died. The increased concentration of total protein at 7 days of age in all groups could have been induced by switching from endogenous feed when receiving exogenous feed containing more protein than the yolk sac.  The age dynamics of the alkaline phosphatase activity had sharp fluctuations throughout the whole rearing period. At 1–7 days of age, there was an increase in the phosphatase activity with a subsequent decrease until 35 days of age relative to the control in all groups. The peak of high activity of this enzyme occurs on the 7th day – 31030 units/l in the control group and on the 14th day in the experimental group 2. Thereafter, there is a gradual decrease in the activity of this enzyme. A sharp increase in the level of alkaline phosphatase in the blood of broiler chickens at 7–21 days of age indicates intensive growth and formation of the organism, but a sharp surge in activity at 7 days of age could also be caused by the transition to a new diet, which in itself is a stress factor. A decrease in the activity of this enzyme at 28–35 days of age indicates a slowdown in the growth process. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to investigate the biochemical composition of blood in different periods of post-embryogenesis of broiler chickens of the cross "Smena-9" at changing the level of protein in the diet, which in this case remains a relevant and informative source of information on the effect of changes in the ingredient composition of feed on the bird organism as a whole.

Genetic aspects of ataxias in a cohort of Turkish patients.

Ataxia is one of the clinical findings of the movement disorder disease group. Although there are many underlying etiological reasons, genetic etiology has an increasing significance thanks to the recently developing technology. The aim of this study is to present the variants detected in WES analysis excluding non-genetic causes, in patients with ataxia. Thirty-six patients who were referred to us with findings of ataxia and diagnosed through WES or other molecular genetic analysis methods were included in our study. At the same time, information such as the onset time of the complaints, consanguinity status between parents, and the presence of relatives with similar symptoms were evaluated. If available, the patient's biochemical and radiological test results were presented. Thirty-six patients were diagnosed through WES or CES. The rate of detected autosomal recessive inheritance disease was 80.5%, while that of autosomal dominant inheritance disease was 19.5%. Abnormal cerebellum was detected on brain MRI images in 26 patients, while polyneuropathy was detected on EMG in eleven of them. While the majority of the patients were compatible with similar cases reported in the literature, five patients had different/additional features (variants in MCM3AP, AGTPBP1, GDAP2, and SH3TC2 genes). The diagnosis of ataxia patients with unknown etiology is made possible thanks to these clues. Consideration of a genetic approach is recommended in patients with ataxia of unknown etiology.

FEATURES OF THE COURSE OF STABLE CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE WITH BORDERLINE CORONARY ARTERY STENOSES DEPENDING ON THE EPICARDIAL FAT THICKNESS

HighlightsPatients with stable coronary artery disease, borderline coronary artery stenoses (BCAS) and increased thickness of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) are characterized by development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) at a younger age and higher levels of proinflammatory markers compared to patients without increased thickness of EAT (in case of comparable obesity class, diabetes type, angina grade and apolipoprotein B levels). Aim. To study the features of the course of stable coronary artery disease with borderline coronary artery stenoses (BCAS) depending on the epicardial fat thickness.Methods. 201 patients with stable angina of 1–3 grade with BCAS (50–70%) were included in the study. The 1st group consisted of 57 (28,4%) patients with high EAT levels, the 2nd group consisted of 144 (71,6%) patients without normal EAT levels. The results of biochemical blood tests and systemic inflammation markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, IL 1, 6, 8, 10, TNF-a, cystatin С, MMP-9, NTproBNP) concentration were evaluated. The epicardial fat thickness was determined by echocardiography. All patients underwent coronary angiography.Results. The general EAT thickness was at 6.00 [5.00; 6.50] mm in the 1st group and at 3.00 [2.30; 4.00] mm in the 2nd group (p<0.001). Hypertension (p<0.001), CAD (p<0.001), and myocardial infarction in particular (p = 0.003) were detected at a younger age in the 1st group. There were no significant differences in terms of prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, angina grade and type of prescribed medication. Patients in the 1st group showed higher levels of NTproBNP (p = 0.002) and hsCRP (p = 0.027). Moreover, patients in the 1st group had a higher Apo-A1 levels (p = 0.023) and a lower Apo B/Apo-A1 ratio (p = 0.019). Proinflammatory cytokine levels were comparable, however anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels (р =0.005) and the frequency of elevated IL-10 levels (p<0.001) were lower in the 1st group. Higher cystatin C levels and the frequency of elevated cystatin C levels (p<0.001) were observed more often in patients with high EAT levels.Conclusion. Patients with stable CAD, borderline coronary artery stenoses and high EAT levels can be characterized by cardiovascular diseases detected at a younger age and higher levels of proinflammatory markers compared with patients with normal EAT levels in case of comparable obesity class, diabetes mellitus, angina grade, and Apo B levels.

Unlocking Nature’s Secret: Microbiological and Nutrient Profiling of Fermented Apple

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the microbiological and nutrient composition of naturally fermented apple cider.  
 Place and Study Duration: Department of Microbiology, between June and August 2023.
 Methodology: The purchased apples were weighed, cut into dice, cleaned, and incorporated into distilled water. Subsequently, they were allowed to ferment spontaneously at room temperature in a 500 mL conical flask. The sample was inoculated onto sterilized glucose yeast carbonate agar and subsequently incubated at 30°C for 48 hours. The colony characteristics of the isolates on glucose yeast carbonate agar were observed. Gram’s staining and other standard biochemical tests were performed to identify the isolates. During the fermentation period, the pH of the sample was determined. The proximate content (moisture, protein, crude fat, and carbohydrate) of the apple cider was also analyzed.
 Results: Microscopy revealed the isolates to be Gram-negative bacteria with rod-shaped morphology. The growth characteristics of the isolates on selective media and the results of biochemical tests suggested the presence of Acetobacter sp. The pH of the sample tends towards 4.0, suggesting the production of acidic compound. The apple cider produced had a high moisture content (78.04%), and the protein content was 20.04%. The results showed low concentrations of ash content (0.49%), carbohydrate (0.44%), and lipid (0.99%).
 Conclusion: The presence of macro and micronutrients in apple cider has been associated with some positive health effects, which are enhanced through fermentation, making them a valuable option for health-conscious consumers.

Clinical feature, GALC variant spectrum, and genotype-phenotype correlation in Korean Krabbe disease patients: Multicenter experience over 13 years.

Krabbe disease (KD) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by deficiency of the galactocerebrosidase (GALC) due to variants in the GALC gene. Here, we provide the first and the largest comprehensive analysis of clinical and genetic characteristics, and genotype-phenotype correlations of KD in Korean in comparison with other ethnic groups. From June 2010 to June 2023, 10 patients were diagnosed with KD through sequencing of GALC. Clinical features, and results of GALC sequencing, biochemical test, neuroimaging, and neurophysiologic test were obtained from medical records. An additional nine previously reported Korean KD patients were included for review. In Korean KD patients, the median age of onset was 2 years (3 months-34 years) and the most common phenotype was adult-onset (33%, 6/18) KD, followed by infantile KD (28%, 5/18). The most frequent variants were c.683_694delinsCTC (23%) and c.1901T>C (23%), while the 30-kb deletion was absent. Having two heterozygous pathogenic missense variants was associated with later-onset phenotype. Clinical features were similar to those of other ethnic groups. In Korean KD patients, the most common phenotype was the adult-onset type and the GALC variant spectrum was different from that of the Caucasian population. This study would further our understanding of KD.

The influence of production factors on the formation of the health of workers in the production of synthetic rubbers, preventive measures

The petrochemical industry, which includes, along with the production of basic chemicals for the production of rubber, occupies one of the leading places in terms of potential chemical hazards to the health of workers. The high prevalence of CNID among workers of petrochemical industries is an important socio-economic problem. The issues of reducing the incidence of chronic non-communicable diseases, including those related to working conditions, the protection and preservation of the health of workers in petrochemical industries dictate the need to develop preventive measures. The aim of the study was to study the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in synthetic rubber production workers. Clinical and hygienic studies have been carried out in the production of synthetic rubber. Harmful production factors were assessed at 80 workplaces based on the materials of a special assessment of working conditions and production control data. The health status of 674 employees was studied according to the results of periodic medical examinations. The surveyed workers were represented by apparatchiks (33.2 %), locksmiths for the repair of technological equipment (12.8 %), machinists of pumping and compressor units (10.7 %), locksmiths of KIP and A (9.1 %). A number of clinical and laboratory, functional research methods have been used to assess the state of health. At the workplaces of the production of synthetic rubber, an adverse effect of chemicals on the worker’s body in combination with industrial noise, the severity of labor and microclimate in certain working areas has been established. The working conditions of employees of the main professions are assigned to the third class of the first-second degrees of harmfulness (classes 3.1–3.2). It was found that there were 17.3 % of practically healthy individuals. Among the identified chronic non-communicable diseases, the leading place was occupied by diseases of the musculoskeletal system (31.1 %), disorders of the autonomic nervous system (28.7 %), myopia (22.0 %), hypertension (12.2 %) hearing impairment (10.3 %). When evaluating the results of biochemical blood tests, the most pronounced changes were found in the indicators of lipid metabolism. Excess values of total cholesterol were detected in 40.9 % of employees. A complex of therapeutic and preventive measures has been developed aimed at reducing the risk of the formation of chronic non-communicable diseases, including measures of primary and secondary prevention.

Analytical Interference with Contrast Agents in Genetic Test Result for Thrombophilia

Background: Diagnostic and therapeutic drugs can change the laboratory results of patients by interfering with the measurement method and may compromise diagnostic efficiency. Incorrect results in biochemical tests used in the clinical follow-up of a patient during treatment may lead to improper applications. Unfortunately, this situation leads the clinician to misdiagnosis. Objective: The focus of this cross-sectional study is to investigate the effects of three different radiopaque substances commonly used in the clinic on thrombophilia molecular genetic results. Methods: Peripheric blood samples from three patients whose thrombophilia panel was planned to be studied were included. Blood samples that did not contain any radiopaque material or distilled water were studied as a control group. Except for the control group four different study groups were formed by adding distilled water, Ioversol, Fluorescein Na, and Gadobutrol. This radiopaque substances were added at a ratio of 1/10 to each patient's blood sample before DNA isolation. Prothrombin G20210A, MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, Factor V Leiden G169A and PAI-1 4G/5G mutations were studied by Real Time-PCR method. Results: There was no change at the thrombophilia panel results in the study groups compared with the control groups in patients 1 and 3. In patient 2, there was no change when the result of MTHFR C677T was compared to the results of blood+DW and blood+Gadobutrol. But there were alterations in blood+Ioversol and blood+Fluorescein Na samples; the result of heterozygous MTHFR C677T was observed to change to homozygous MTHFR C677T. Conclusion: This study showed that Ioversol and Fluorescein Na could change the results of the thrombophilia genetic analysis for MTHFR C677T mutation. It should be kept in mind that the results of the thrombophilia panel analysis may change after the injection of radiopaque substances.

Optimizing d-mannose and glyceraldehyde concentrations as glucose preservatives without clinically affecting biochemical test results

Objectives: The objectives were to evaluate blood additives that combined lithium heparin (LH)-salt with glyceraldehyde (GLY) or d-mannose (MAN) for preserving glucose levels in plasma samples and to simultaneously determine the compatibility of these additives with 14 other biochemical tests. MethodsBlood samples from 40 subjects, equally divided into healthy and diabetic groups, were collected using five different additives. The three most effective additives, LH/GLY, LH/MAN, and LH/GLY/MAN, were selected for ensuring the best preservation of glucose levels and compatibility with 14 biochemical tests. One-way analysis of variance was used to analyze the mean paired differences of glucose level and biochemical tests. Simultaneously, the clinical criteria from Johns Hopkins Hospital were used to guide the interpretation and set acceptable thresholds for measurements that exceeded the standards. ResultsThe combination of 160 mmol/L GLY, 8.4 mmol/L MAN, and LH, maintained glucose levels at approximately 93.4–93.7 % for healthy subjects and 91.3–92.8% for subjects with diabetes mellitus over 8 h. The mean paired differences of glucose levels in preservation were statistically insignificant. The biases in 14 biochemical tests for LH/GLY/MAN and LH/MAN remained within the acceptable clinical criteria during the 8 h. ConclusionsCombining 160 mmol/L GLY, 8.4 mmol/L MAN, and LH, proved more effective in maintaining glucose levels than individual additives or the conventional sodium fluoride preservative. It did not yield clinical discrepancies in the 14 biochemical tests during 8 h at room temperature.

Prediction of intraoperative red blood cell transfusion in valve replacement surgery: machine learning algorithm development based on non-anemic cohort.

Our study aimed to develop machine learning algorithms capable of predicting red blood cell (RBC) transfusion during valve replacement surgery based on a preoperative dataset of the non-anemic cohort. A total of 423 patients who underwent valvular replacement surgery from January 2015 to December 2020 were enrolled. A comprehensive database that incorporated demographic characteristics, clinical conditions, and results of preoperative biochemistry tests was used for establishing the models. A range of machine learning algorithms were employed, including decision tree, random forest, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), categorical boosting (CatBoost), support vector classifier and logistic regression (LR). Subsequently, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, recall, precision, and F1 score were used to determine the predictive capability of the algorithms. Furthermore, we utilized SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) values to explain the optimal prediction model. The enrolled patients were randomly divided into training set and testing set according to the 8:2 ratio. There were 16 important features identified by Sequential Backward Selection for model establishment. The top 5 most influential features in the RF importance matrix plot were hematocrit, hemoglobin, ALT, fibrinogen, and ferritin. The optimal prediction model was CatBoost algorithm, exhibiting the highest AUC (0.752, 95% CI: 0.662-0.780), which also got relatively high F1 score (0.695). The CatBoost algorithm also showed superior performance over the LR model with the AUC (0.666, 95% CI: 0.534-0.697). The SHAP summary plot and the SHAP dependence plot were used to visually illustrate the positive or negative effects of the selected features attributed to the CatBoost model. This study established a series of prediction models to enhance risk assessment of intraoperative RBC transfusion during valve replacement in no-anemic patients. The identified important predictors may provide effective preoperative interventions.

Predictive model and risk analysis for peripheral vascular disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients using machine learning and shapley additive explanation.

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a common complication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Early detection or prediction the risk of developing PVD is important for clinical decision-making. This study aims to establish and validate PVD risk prediction models and perform risk factor analysis for PVD in patients with T2DM using machine learning and Shapley Additive Explanation(SHAP) based on electronic health records. We retrospectively analyzed the data from 4,372 inpatients with diabetes in a hospital between January 1, 2021, and March 28, 2023. The data comprised demographic characteristics, discharge diagnoses and biochemical index test results. After data preprocessing and feature selection using Recursive Feature Elimination(RFE), the dataset was split into training and testing sets at a ratio of 8:2, with the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique(SMOTE) employed to balance the training set. Six machine learning(ML) algorithms, including decision tree (DT), logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), support vector machine(SVM),extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and Adaptive Boosting(AdaBoost) were applied to construct PVD prediction models. A grid search with 10-fold cross-validation was conducted to optimize the hyperparameters. Metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, G-mean, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) assessed the models' effectiveness. The SHAP method interpreted the best-performing model. RFE identified the optimal 12 predictors. The XGBoost model outperformed other five ML models, with an AUC of 0.945, G-mean of 0.843, accuracy of 0.890, precision of 0.930, recall of 0.927, and F1-score of 0.928. The feature importance of ML models and SHAP results indicated that Hemoglobin (Hb), age, total bile acids (TBA) and lipoprotein(a)(LP-a) are the top four important risk factors for PVD in T2DM. The machine learning approach successfully developed a PVD risk prediction model with good performance. The model identified the factors associated with PVD and offered physicians an intuitive understanding on the impact of key features in the model.

Icariin, astragaloside a and puerarin mixture attenuates cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mice via inhibition of ferroptosis-lipid peroxidation

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that seriously threatens the quality of life of the elderly. Its pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Ferroptosis, a cell death caused by excessive accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of AD. Uncontrolled lipid peroxidation is the core process of ferroptosis, and inhibiting lipid peroxidation of ferroptosis may be an important therapeutic target for AD. Based on previous studies, we mixed standards of icariin, astragaloside IV, and puerarin, named the standard mixture YHG, and investigated the effect of YHG on ferroptosis -lipid peroxidation in APP/PS1 mice. DFX, a ferroptosis inhibitor, was used as a control drug. In this study, APP/PS1 mice were used as an AD animal model, and behavioral experiments, iron level detection, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation, lipid peroxidation level detection, antioxidant capacity detection, immunofluorescence, Western blot and real-time qPCR were performed. It was found that YHG could reduce body weight, significantly improve abnormal behaviors and the ultrastructure of hippocampal neurons in APP/PS1 mice. The results of biochemical tests showed that YHG reduced the contents of iron, malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid peroxide (LPO) in brain tissue and serum, and increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Immunofluorescence, WesternBlot and real-time qPCR results showed that YHG could promote the expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4). Inhibited the expression of long-chain acyllipid coenzyme a synthetase 4(ACSL4) and lysophosphatidyltransferase 3 (LPCAT3). This study suggests that the mechanism by which YHG improves cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 mice may be related to the inhibition of ferroptosis-lipid peroxidation.

Ace-1 Target Site Status and Metabolic Detoxification Associated with Bendiocarb Resistance in the Field Populations of Main Malaria Vector, Anopheles stephensi in Iran

Background: Anopheles stephensi is the main vector of malaria in Iran. This study aimed to determine the susceptibility of An. stephensi from the south of Iran to bendiocarb and to investigate biochemical and molecular resistance mechanisms in this species.
 Methods: Wild An. stephensi were collected from Hormozgan Province and reared to the adult stage. The susceptibility test was conducted according to the WHO protocols using bendiocarb impregnated papers supplied by WHO. Also, field An. Stephensi specimens were collected from south of Kerman and Sistan and Baluchistan Provinces. To determine the G119S mutation in the acetylcholinesterase (Ace1) gene, PCR-RFLP using AluI restriction enzyme and PCR direct-sequencing were performed for the three field populations and compared with the available GenBank data. Also, bi­ochemical assays were performed to measure alpha and beta esterases, insensitive acetylcholinesterase, and oxidases in the strains.
 Results: The bioassay tests showed that the An. stephensi field strain was resistant to bendiocarb (mortality rate 89%). Ace1 gene analysis revealed no G119S in the three field populations. Blast search of sequences revealed 98–99% identity with the Ace1 gene from Pakistan and India respectively. Also, the results of biochemical tests revealed the high activity of non-sensitive acetylcholinesterase, alpha and beta-esterase in the resistant strain compared to the susceptible strain. No G119S was detected in this study additionally the enhanced enzyme activity of esterases and acetylcholinesterase sug­gesting that resistance was metabolic.
 Conclusion: The use of alternative malaria control methods and the implementation of resistance management strategies are suggested in the study area.

Occurrence and hematological aspects of dogs with Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is an infectious disease caused by a gram-negative bacterium of the genus Ehrlichia spp., a monocyte parasite that leads to thrombocytopenia, anemia, hyporexia, apathy, pale mucous membranes, among others. The etiological agent is distributed worldwide, but there is a greater incidence and considerable prevalence in places with temperate climates due to the high presence of the tick vector Rhipicephalus sanguineus. In Brazil, the number of cases of this disease appears to have increased in many regions, due to several factors, but more studies are still needed regarding the prevalence in various regions. In view of the aforementioned points, this retrospective study aimed to address the findings of the clinical and laboratory evaluation of 43 medical records with the definitive diagnosis of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, in naturally infected dogs, treated at HOVET - UFES, during the period of June 2017 to September 2023, in order to discuss and relate the findings found with current literature, as well as report the occurrence of this disease. For this, we used the clinical and laboratory records of dogs that showed positivity in the SNAP 4Dx Plus® rapid test and/or in blood smears, and presented Ehrlichia spp. morulae. in leukocytes. Simultaneously, clinical data, blood count findings and biochemical test results were prepared in figures, tables and organizational charts. Subsequently, with the information and results found, descriptive analysis of the data was used to demonstrate the occurrence through percentages. The most frequent clinical and laboratory changes were the presence of ticks, hyporexia, lymphadenomgelia, apathy, pale mucous membranes, thrombocytopenia, normocytic normochromic anemia, lymphopenia and hypoalbuminemia. Therefore, it is concluded that it is essential to report the occurrence of Ehrlichia sp. in dogs, as well as knowing the main clinical and laboratory changes mentioned so that it is possible to assist in the early identification of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis.

Methods of artificial regulation of estrous cycle of Aberdeen Angus breeding stock

The research aim is to study the efficiency of using the OvSynch and Co-Synch schemes with subsequent resynchronization on beef cows and heifers of the Aberdeen Angus breed. The hormonal state of animals and the biochemical blood serum parameters were chosen as factors determining reproductive function. The purpose is to study the efficiency of applying the OvSynch and Co-Synch synchronization protocols on cows and heifers of the Aberdeen Angus breed depending on the hormonal state of the inseminated animals and the biochemical blood serum parameters. The rate of fertilization in cows inseminated according to the OvSynch protocol was determined to be 5.0 to 8.5 % higher during the first stage of insemination and 5.5 % higher during the second stage of insemination. In the group of heifers, the best fertilization results were obtained while using the Co-Synch protocol (59.3 %). Giving cows a second injection of GnRH, on day 9 of the OvSynch protocol, 16 hours before insemination, provided an average rate of fertilization of 52.3 %, which is 3.4 % higher compared to the 14-hour interval between GnRH injection and insemination. The concentration of steroid and gonadotropic hormones, including cortisol, estradiol, FSH and LH, in experimental animals during insemination corresponded to the estrus phase. The results of biochemical blood tests indicate a number of metabolic inconsistencies in the animal body. Changes in the biochemical blood serum parameters in animals that did not become pregnant followed the same patterns as in those that became pregnant. However, the level of increase or decrease in parameters was less pronounced. The results obtained can be used in arranging artificial insemination in breeding and commercial agricultural organizations engaged in beef cattle breeding, as well as in teaching process of zootechnical and veterinary disciplines in agricultural higher educational institutions of the Republic of Belarus.

Hemolysis in blood samples

Hemolysis is one of the interfering factors that can limit the results of various biochemical tests, and this study aimed to assess the interference of hemolysis in the reliability of biochemical tests conducted in clinical-surgical procedures in the veterinary hospital routine. The methodology was retrospective, based on the analysis of records of animals treated at the Veterinary Hospital Unit (SUHVU) of the Federal University of Fronteira, Campus Realeza (Paraná) from January of 2020 to December of 2022. The tests conducted in the Veterinary Clinical Analysis laboratory included serum determination of total proteins, albumin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), creatinine and urea. Based on the biochemical results, animals were divided into three groups according to the degree of hemolysis observed in the serum: mild hemolysis (HD); moderate hemolysis (HM) and intense hemolysis (HI). The control group (GC) was determined based on reference values specific to the species. Data were tabulated in spreadsheets and analyzed using Pearson's correlation test (p). Mild hemolysis was predominant and, in dogs, did not affect the analyzed biochemical values in comparison to the reference averages for the species, regardless of the degree. Isolated, most measurements increased. In cats, changes were more significant concerning the group average, with ALP showing the greatest variation, not consistent with the elevation of hemolysis. None of the parameters had a strong correlation of interference between hemolyses, only moderate negative and positive correlations in ALP and urea.

ЗНАЧЕНИЕ ОФЭКТ/КТ ДЛЯ ОДНОВРЕМЕННОЙ ОЦЕНКИ КАЛЬЦИНОЗА КОРОНАРНЫХ АРТЕРИЙ, ПЕРФУЗИИ И КОНТРАКТИЛЬНОЙ ФУНКЦИИ МИОКАРДА У ЖЕНЩИН С ИШЕМИЧЕСКОЙ БОЛЕЗНЬЮ СЕРДЦА

Purpose: To study the frequency of calcinosis of coronary arteries and its effect on myocardial perfusion and contractile function among females with coronary heart disease (CHD). Material and methods: A survey was conducted among 141 females with coronary heart disease (CHD): simultaneous assessment of coronary artery calcinosis, perfusion and contractile function with 99m Tc-technetril SPECT/CT with ECG-synchronization and X-ray radiation correction, as well as comparison of data with the results of electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography (ECHO-CG), clinical and biochemical blood tests. Results: Coronary artery calcinosis was detected in 33 (23 %) females with coronary heart disease (CHD) out of all patients identified: over the age of 55 years (M = 67 years with variations from 58 to 83 years) ‒ in 25 (17.7 %), aged 41‒55 years (M = 50 years with variations from 46 to 54 years) ‒ in 7 (4.6 %), at the age of 25‒40 years ‒ in one female 35 years (0.7 %). The Agatston calcium score interval was set as follows: at the maximum degree > 400 ‒ for 6 females (4.2 % of all surveyed); at 101‒400 ‒ in 9 (6.4 %); at 11‒100 ‒ in 17 (12.0 %); at 1‒10 ‒ in one female (0.7 %); with a minimum degree of 0 ‒ in 108 females (76.7 % of all surveyed). In the presence of maximum degree of calcinosis (> 400 units), a slight significant decrease in perfusion, an increase in ejection fraction and diastole duration was revealed. Conclusion: The use of combined SPECT/CT with ECG synchronization and CT radiation correction technology in 141 females with coronary artery disease made it possible to identify coronary artery calcinosis in 23 % of patiets.

Preparing for another Ebola Outbreak: The impact of viral inactivation methods on commonly measured biochemistry analytes in plasma and urine

IntroductionInfectious specimens containing viruses like Ebola require sample manipulation to ensure the safety of laboratory staff, which may negatively impact biochemistry test results. We evaluated the impact of viral inactivation methods on 25 biochemistry analytes in plasma, and seven biochemistry analytes in urine. MethodsFifteen lithium heparinized plasma specimens with and without gel underwent the following viral inactivation methods: 1) untreated, 2) Triton X-100 treatment, 2) heated for 60 min then Triton X-100 treatment, 3) heated for 60 min, 4) heated for 75 min, and 5) heated for 90 min. Electrolytes, protein, enzymes, glucose, as well as hepatic and renal markers were measured on the Roche Cobas e601, c502 or c702. Urinalysis analytes were measured on the Siemens CLINITEK. Acceptable recovery was based on Institute for Quality Management in Healthcare 2021 guidelines or ± 1 for urinalysis. ResultsPotassium and lactate dehydrogenase were impacted by the presence of gel. Viral inactivation with Triton X-100 had minimal impact on the biochemistry results. Heat inactivation resulted in significant negative bias in alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, creatinine, total protein, amylase, lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase. Positive bias in phosphate, aspartate transaminase, total bilirubin, and uric acid were observed after heat inactivation. ConclusionReliable results for commonly measured electrolytes, enzymes and proteins can be obtained after viral inactivation by Triton X-100 treatment at room temperature. However, heat inactivation has significant negative impact on routine biochemistry enzymes and alternative testing processes should be explored.

The Impact of Medium Cut-Off Dialyzers on Malnutrition-Inflammation Scores in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Introduction: Medium cut-off (MCO) membranes may be able to remove middle-large uremic toxins that are retained in the body, which has been linked to various risk factors including malnutrition-inflammation score (MIS). The effect of MCO dialyzers on MIS has been studied. Methods: This single-center exploratory prospective observational study enrolled maintenance hemodialysis patients who underwent dialysis using either MCO (Theranova 400) or high-flux (FX80) membranes as part of their regular care. Measurements of MIS, body weight, height, body mass index, and various biochemical markers were taken at the beginning and conclusion of the study. Results: This study included 50 patients who were treated with either the Theranova 400 (n = 25) or the FX80 (n = 25) for a period of 6 months. The two groups were similar in terms of demographics, duration of hemodialysis treatment, and baseline biochemical test results. Theranova 400 had no significant impact on the median MIS (6 [6–10] vs. 7 [5-10], p 0.575) and serum albumin levels (4.07 [3.92–4.22] vs. 4.04 [3.85–4.30], p 0.689), while the FX80 resulted in a significant increase in MIS (6 [5–8] vs. 8 [6–10], p 0.033) and a significant decrease in serum albumin levels (4.23 [4.03–4.36] vs. 3.98 [3.77–4.12], p 0.027) at the end of the study. Discussion/Conclusion: After 6 months of treatment, the MCO dialyzer did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in the MIS when compared to the high-flux dialyzer. However, MIS worsening was significantly less in the MCO group, indicating the potential benefits of MCO membranes in maintaining nutritional status. Further research is required to validate these results.

A J-shaped relationship between body mass index and the risk of elevated liver stiffness: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundLiver stiffness (LS) is regarded as an indicator of the stages of liver fibrosis and liver cirrhosis. Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and LS; however, the conclusions remain controversial. In the current study, we utilized transient elastography (TE) technique, which could measure LS in a non-painful and noninvasive way, to explore the relationship between BMI and the risk of elevated LS in common community residents.Methods5791 participants were included in the present study. To calculate BMI value, height and weight of the participants were carefully measured. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) > 9.1 kPa was considered as a cutoff suggesting elevated LS. The relationship of BMI and risk of elevated LS was derived using generalized linear regression models, and the threshold effect was then analyzed by smooth curve fitting and segmented regression model.ResultsElevated LS was detected in 230 participants (3.97%) using the TE technique. After potential confounders were adjusted according to the individual’s demographic variables, underlying comorbidities and blood biochemical test results, we observed a J-shaped relationship between BMI and the risk of elevated LS, with the inflection point at 23.05 kg/m2. The effect size (and confidence interval) was 0.84 (0.71, 0.98) on the left side of the inflection point, and 1.32 (1.24, 1.41) on the right side of it.ConclusionsOur study found a novel J-shaped relationship between BMI and the risk of elevated LS assessed by TE technique. Abnormal BMI, either higher or lower, was associated with an increased risk of elevated LS.