Cell Volume Values Research Articles

Bovine and equine trypanosomosis in Northwest Ethiopia: Prevalence, density of vectors and control measures

A cross-sectional study was carried out from November 2016 to May 2017 in selected districts of Northwest Ethiopia (Jawi, South Achefer, Dembecha and Jabitehenan) with the aim of determining the prevalence of bovine and equine trypanosomosis, estimating the apparent density of vectors and assessing the effectiveness of control measures of the disease. A total of 1257 animals of which 803 bovine and 454 equine were examined for the determination of prevalence using blood sample collected from ear vein of animals. The buffy coat technique was employed to determine the prevalence and the packed cell volume (PCV) value. During sampling animals were categorized into age, body condition score, sex and hair coat color. A total of 40 monoconical traps 10 per district were deployed to estimate the apparent density of vectors. To assess control measures representative number of farmers were interviewed with a prepared questionnaire and using secondary data from veterinary offices. The overall prevalence of trypanosomosis was 7.47% and 4.40% for bovine and equine species, respectively. The prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis was 9.46%, 6.13%, 8.11% and 5.98% while prevalence in equine was 7.8%, 5.3%, 2.7% and 1.8% in Jawi, South Achefer, Dembecha and Jabitehenan districts, respectively. Significance differences in the prevalence of trypanosomosis were observed in hair coat color, age and body condition score in bovine while only body condition was significant in equine. The mean PCV value of parasitemic animals was significantly (P < .001) lower than that of aparasitaemic animals. The apparent densities of vectors were 1.04, 0.97, 0.32 fly/trap/day for Glossina, Stomoxys and Tabanus respectively. Glossina m. submorsitans and G. tachinoides were the species of tsetse identified. The questionnaire response indicated that trypanosomosis was found to be a serious constraint on livestock health in the study areas. The application of continuous trypanosomosis control measures particularly in Jawi and South Achefer districts which were showed an increasing trend in livestock number might be attributed to control effectiveness. In conclusion the presence of trypanosomes and potential vectors necessitate the application of sustainable and integrated control methods in the study areas.

Neurotoxicity, oxidative stress biomarkers and haematological responses in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) exposed to polyvinyl chloride microparticles

The aquatic environment is outrageously littered with resin pellets and particles of plastic origin which can jeopardise the health of aquatic organisms. The present study investigated the effect of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microparticles on blood parameters, leucocytes, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system (brain and gill) of Clarias gariepinus. C. gariepinus is a fresh water indicator species often used as model for ecotoxicological assay. Fish specimens were exposed to diets spiked with PVC microparticles (95.41 ± 4.23 μm) at the following concentrations; 0.50%, 1.50% and 3.0% and control diet for 45 days, followed by a depuration trial which lasted for 30 days. Blood and tissues (brain and gill) were sampled every 15 days interval for haematology, antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation assay. The result obtained revealed that PVC orchestrated the marked alterations in haematological indices. Mean cell volume and mean cell haemoglobin values reduced significantly in all concentration treated groups and were time-dependent. Neutrophil counts decreased with a corresponding increase in PVC exposure time while lymphocytes and monocytes values showed no significant difference between the control and exposed fish groups. Glutathione peroxidase activity was altered substantially in the brain and gill of the exposed groups compared to the control. Superoxide dismutase activity was inhibited in the brain and gill of the exposed groups compared to the control, as well as the different exposed periods. Catalase activity reduced significantly in the brain of 0.5% PVC exposed groups, and also decreased in a time-dependent manner while its activity in the gill did not change significantly among the exposed groups relative to the control. Lipid peroxidation levels in the brain of PVC exposed groups increased significantly in a dose and time-dependent manner. However, PVC caused no significantly change in the gill lipid peroxidation level of the exposed fish, but elevated the lipid peroxidation levels as the exposure time increased. Acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain and gill of the exposed fish reduced substantially with increase in the exposure time. Variations in haematology, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation and acetylcholinesterase activities are indicative of oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in fish. C. gariepinus is an indispensable bioindicator to measure environmental impact of PVC microparticles.

Size and composition dependent structural investigations on Nd1-xBaxCoO3 (x = 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4) perovskite cobaltites using X-ray diffraction

The perovskite materials having general formula ABO3 are widely studied due to their interesting physical properties. The physical properties of the perovskites strongly depend on the particle size and chemical compositions. Here, we present crystallite size and composition dependence of the structural property of Nd1-xBaxCoO3 perovskites. The powder samples of Nd1-xBaxCoO3 perovskites with x = 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 were prepared by glycine-nitrate auto-combustion technique. The room temperature structural analysis of the studied samples was carried out by Rietveld structure refinement of the X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Rietveld structure refinement of the XRD data reveals that Nd1-xBaxCoO3 perovskites crystallize into two crystallographic phases; tetragonal crystal structure with P4/mmm space group and orthorhombic structure with Pbnm space group. The values of the unit cell lattice parameters and volume strongly depend on the composition and crystallite size. The average values of lattice strain and crystallite size of the prepared nano samples were evaluated using the Williamson-Hall (W-H) technique.

Postoperative changes in hemoglobin and packed cell volume values in patients undergoing primary lower limb arthroplasty

Postoperative changes in hemoglobin and packed cell volume values in patients undergoing primary lower limb arthroplasty

Effects of transrectal medicinal ozone in horses - clinical and laboratory aspects

ABSTRACT Ozone (O3) therapy has been used for medical procedures for centuries; however, there are no extensive studies on its utilization in horses. This study aimed to evaluate the application of transrectal O3 on horses by physical and laboratorial evaluation, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Sixteen healthy horses were separated in two groups: a control group (CG) and a group treated with O3 (TG). The TG animals received 1L of an oxygen and O3 mixture transrectally. The initial dose was 10µg/ml for the first two applications, 15μg/ml for the following two applications, and 20μg/ml for the next six applications. The CG animals received 1L of oxygen transrectally. In TG animals no variations in the physical examination were detected; furthermore, TG animals did not exhibit changes in biochemical evaluation results, fibrinogen concentrations, or ROS production. TG animals had increased red blood cell counts, hemoglobin concentrations, and packet cell volume values in comparison to the baseline and CG values. We could infer that O3 affected the red blood cell counts and improved rhetological properties of the blood. The transrectal application of O3 in horses is safe and can indirectly improve the oxygenation and metabolism of tissues.

Electrochemical performances of activated carbon prepared using eggshell waste

This paper describes the preparation of activated carbon (Ac) from broiler hen eggshell (BES) and Country hen eggshell (CES) waste with the assistance of chemical activating agent orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4) and eggshell powder for 4:1 and 4:2 concentrations. XRD analysis affirmed the formation of Ac and the hexagonal structure of CaCO3 for both BES and CES samples. The average crystalline size, dislocation density, microstrain, lattice parameter, and cell volume values are found to be higher for CES. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of functional groups of BES and CES samples of Ac. UV-DRS spectra exhibited strong absorption in the visible region for BES and the bandgap value is found to be around 1.2 eV for both BES and CES. The surface morphology reveals the porous nature, irregular shape and uniform size particles of Ac. Cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were performed to study the energy storage application. Though both BES and CES have showed the capacitive behavior, the sample BES exhibit higher specific capacitance of 155.8 F/g is achieved for BES than CES. Similarly, the Rs and Rct values are calculated from the impedance measurement and it is found to be lower for BES sample that indicates improved electrical conductivity.

Nrf2 Null Mice Are Deficient in CD169+ Macrophages, Associated with Impaired Erythroid Response and Delayed Recovery from Acute Blood Loss

Erythropoiesis occurs in specialized niches in the bone marrow consisting of a central macrophage, surrounded by differentiating erythroblasts. This central macrophage has been identified by several markers including, CD169 (Sialoadhesin or Siglec-1), F4/80, CD11b, VCAM-1, ER-HR3 and Ly-6G. These CD169+ macrophages support erythropoiesis both at steady state and during stress. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is the master regulator of the cellular oxidative defense system. It modulates hematopoietic stem cells but its loss produces no visible phenotype in steady state hematological parameters. However, the importance of Nrf2 and macrophage subsets has not been fully characterized during recovery from stress erythropoiesis. We examined specific subsets of CD169+ macrophage populations in Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2−/−) mice as well as the role of Nrf2 in recovery from stress erythropoiesis in vivo. We quantified the expression of CD169, F4/80 and CD11b, markers of central macrophages, in the BM and spleen of Nrf2+/+ and Nrf2-/- mice at steady state. Surprisingly, Nrf2-/- mice showed a phenotype characterized by lower percentages of cells expressing known macrophage markers. We observed a significant decrease of 47% (p≤0.01), 24% (p≤0.01) and 50% (p≤0.01) in BM macrophage subpopulations expressing F4/80hiCD169hi, F4/80hiCD11bhi and CD169hiCD11bhi respectively, in age-matched Nrf2-/- mice compared to Nrf2+/+ control mice (Fig. 1a). In the spleen, we also observed a similar significant deficiency in BM macrophages (p≤0.01). Further validating this phenotype, immunofluorescence staining of isolated spleen tissue showed that expression of CD169+ macrophages was dramatically lower in spleen sections of Nrf2-/- mice than in Nrf2+/+ control mice. We hypothesized that our macrophage-deficient mice would display a defect in recovery from blood loss. Five to seven days after acute blood loss, immature erythroid progenitors (CD71hiTer119hi) increased in marrow by about 5-fold in Nrf2+/+ mice (p≤0.001, Fig. 1b), and mature erythroid progenitors (CD71loTer119hi) increased in marrow by 12-fold (p≤0.05) but the erythroid marrow response was impaired significantly in the macrophage deficient Nrf2-/- mice. To extend our observations regarding macrophage deficiency and impaired erythroid response, we chose a more functional outcome of recovery from anemia after high-grade blood loss produced by daily phlebotomies over 3 consecutive days to induce stress erythropoiesis in Nrf2+/+ and Nrf2-/- mice. We found significantly lower packed cell volume values specifically on Days 2, 4 and 10, implying delayed erythroid recovery (p≤0.05, two-way ANOVA). The Nrf2-/- mice also showed a significant decline in total hemoglobin than the Nrf2+/+ mice (p≤0.05). Additionally, peripheral blood reticulocyte response to blood loss is delayed in Nrf2 deficient mice compared to age-matched controls (11.0 ± 0.6% vs. 14.8 ± 0.6%, p≤0.001). We analyzed expression of heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1), a well-known Nrf2-regulated gene. HO-1 mRNA expression increased 3-fold and 23-fold in Nrf2+/+ mice animals subjected to phlebotomy and hemin treatment compared to 2-fold and 12-fold expression in Nrf2-deficient mice (p≤0.05). We demonstrate for the first time that Nrf2-deficient mice have a deficiency of macrophages that includes subsets considered erythroblastic island (EI) macrophages, and that this deficiency is associated with impaired erythroid response to induced stress. Secondly, our multiple phlebotomies data in aggregate demonstrate that Nrf2-/- mice deficient in BM macrophages have significant delay in functional erythroid response and recovery from experimentally-induced anemia. Thirdly, impaired inducibility of HO-1 is a known feature of Nrf2-/- mice, which we confirmed in our results, could be contributing to the impairment in erythroid response. However, it is not likely that restricted iron trafficking to erythroid progenitors occurs in Nrf2-/- mice, since there is no characteristic alteration of mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin in peripheral blood. This is an area worthy of additional investigation. We conclude that the Nrf2 gene plays a previously unappreciated role in erythroid biology that appears to be mediated through macrophage function. Disclosures Ofori-Acquah: Shire Human Genetic Therapies Inc: Other: Financial Relationship. Kato:Bayer: Research Funding; Novartis, Global Blood Therapeutics: Consultancy, Research Funding.

Efficacy of intravenous tranexamic acid in reducing perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty

Introduction: Femoral neck fractures are frequent injuries in a trauma centre and have a high incidence in the general population. Hip fracture surgeries are associated with substantial blood loss, exposing patients to postoperative anaemia. The severity of anaemia is related directly to post-operative functional recovery of the patients, which is related to long-term mortality. Blood transfusion related adverse effects also can directly influence the recovery. Tranexamic acid is a simple and inexpensive synthetic antifibrinolytic agent, which prevents the degradation of fibrin and delays the breakdown of haemostasis clots. Aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of intra-venous administration of Tranexamic acid in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty with regards to blood loss at perioperative period. Materials and Methods: A prospective randomised control study was done in a tertiary care hospital in southern part of India during the period of January 2016 to June 2017. 40 consecutive fracture neck of femur patients were randomised into two group, each group consist of 20 patient, Group 1 patients received placebo of 50 ml of normal saline administered intravenously 10 minutes before starting the surgery. Group 2 patients received Tranexamic acid -1500Mg diluted in 50ml Normal Saline administered intravenously 10 minutes before the surgery. Intraoperative blood loss was assessed by collecting the number of fully soaked mopping pads, fully soaked gauze pieces and quantity of irrigation fluid form suction bottle after subtracting the amount of normal saline used for wash. Post operatively all patients were assessed by evaluating the haemoglobin, Packed cell volume values from patients and blood collected in the negative suction drain of day 1 and day 2. The study group and control group parameters were analysed and compared. Results: 45 patients were enrolled in our study and 5 patients were excluded from the study due to not giving consent for study. Demographic date like age, gender, side of fracture, type of fracture type of prosthesis were not influenced our study. Requirement of intra operative blood transfusion were significantly reduced in study group in comparison with control group which was statistically significant (p=0.027). In study group only 3 patient received blood transfusion, whereas control group 11 patents were received. Conclusion: In our study, there was significant reduction in the amount of blood loss in tranexamic acid administered group when compared to the placebo group. Tranexamic acid was cost effective and safer when compared to blood components. Tranexamic acid should be considered for routine use in Hemiarthroplasty surgery to decrease blood loss.

Modeling of unusual lattice properties of superconducting PuCoIn5 based on ab initio calculation

The volume of PuCoIn5 unit cell differs by about 30% from the corresponding volume of PuCoGa5 – a superconductor with a record high critical temperature for this class of compounds (Tc ~ 18.5 K). Such a change in volume can significantly affect the degree of electronic correlations, which are believed to be responsible for the unusual properties of PuCoGa5 and similar compounds. In the present work, an ab initio calculation of the ground state energy of PuCoIn5 is performed for different values of the unit cell volume. Based on the obtained results supplemented by the energy of lattice vibrations calculated in the framework of the generalized Debye-Einstein model, the temperature dependences of thermal and elastic properties of PuCoIn5 have been simulated. The anharmonicity of lattice vibrations in PuCoIn5 and PuCoGa5 is discussed, and the effect of electronic correlations on the heat capacity of these two compounds is analyzed.

Palm Oil Fractions Alter Acute Cadmium Mediated Haematotoxicity

The objective of the research was to contribute to the continual search for natural products that could mitigate alterations in haematological indices due to cadmium poisoning.&#x0D; Materials and methods. Seventy-two male Wistar rats were mobilized and divided into six groups (A-F). Group A served as the control one which was neither exposed to cadmium nor treated with palm oil fraction. Group B was not treated with palm oil fractions but received a single dose of 20mgkg-1 body weight of cadmium chloride solution on the 29th day of the experiment, while Groups C-E received 5mlKg-1 bodyweight of crude palm oil, silica gel extract, bleached extract and unsaponifiable extract of palm oil respectively for 28 days before a single dose of 20mgKg-1 body weight of cadmium chloride on the 29th day. Blood samples were collected from four animals via cardiac puncture on the 29th, 30th and 31st day within intervals of 12h, 24h and 48h after cadmium administration. This was then analysed for haematological parameters using an automated haematological analyser. Data analysis was carried out using the one-way factor analysis of variance at a significant level of p&lt;0.05.&#x0D; Results. The impact of cadmium intoxication on haematological indices in rats was time-dependent and was mostly felt at the end of the 48-hour period indicating a significant decrease in the packed cell volume, haemoglobin and white blood cells values, while the increase due to cadmium was observed in mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume values; pre-treatment of palm oil fractions mitigated the noxious effects of cadmium significantly near control values.&#x0D; Conclusions. Crude palm oil and its fractions have the ability to mobilize antioxidant defence potentials against cadmium damage to blood cells.

The use of inflammatory markers as a diagnostic and prognostic approach in neonatal calves with septicaemia.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of inflammatory markers as a diagnostic and prognostic approach in neonatal calves with septicaemia. The study material consisted of 13 neonatal calves with septicaemia (septicaemic calves, SC) and ten healthy neonatal calves (control calves, CC). Blood samples were collected for biochemical, haematological and microbiological analyses. In addition, faecal samples were collected for microbiological and virological analyses. Three of neonatal calves with septicaemia were positive for E. coli (E. coli O157 serotype) by microbiological examination, but all neonatal calves with septicaemia were negative for rota- and coronaviruses. By haematological examination, there were no significant differences between SC and CC for white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil (NEU) counts (P > 0.05). NEU counts were higher on day 0 than on day 15 in SC (P < 0.05). Red blood cell (RBC) counts and packed cell volume (PCV) values were higher on day 0 in the SC than in the CC (P < 0.05). By biochemical analyses, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), haptoglobin (Hp), and fibrinogen (Fb) concentrations were higher on day 0 in the SC than in the CC (P < 0.05). After treatment (on day 15), the serum IL-6, PCT, Hp, and Fb concentrations were significantly decreased in the SC compared to the CC (P < 0.05). The serum iron (Fe) concentrations were lower on day 0 in the SC than in the CC (P < 0.05), and were higher on day 15 than on day 0 in the SC (P < 0.05). The study revealed that inflammatory markers could be used for determining the diagnosis and prognosis in neonatal calves with septicaemia.

Dried Pig Feces: Impacts on Growth, Haematology and Histology of Clarias gariepinus

Aims: Improper utilization and disposal of pig faeces in pig farms have been a great concern due to their hazards and risks they constitute to the environment. This situation calls for effective utilization of pig Feces for fish feed. This project was designed to provide information on safe level of Dried Pig Feces (DPF) on growth, histology and haematology of Clarias gariepinus.&#x0D; Study Design: A twelve week feeding trial experiment was conducted using one hundred and fifty samples of C. gariepinus juveniles. The fish meal was replaced at different graded levels of DPF (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) and was coded T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Growth parameters, histology of vital organs and haematology of the fish samples were determined according to standard methods. Data obtained were analysed using ANOVA and Duncan multiple range test was used to separate the means.&#x0D; Results: The Mean Weight Gain (MWG) revealed a significant (P&lt;0.05) value in T3 (69.40 g), while 100% inclusion exhibited lowest MWG (21.07%). The Packed Cell Volume, Haemoglobin and Red Blood Cell values obtained decreased with increase in DPF inclusions, while an increase was observed in T4 (26.50%). White Blood Cell count was significant (P&lt;0.05) in T3 (16,150±2.07 g/l) and decreased in T4(15,800±1.01 g/l) and T5(12,650±0.85 g/l) respectively. Histological results confirmed the absence of lesions in the heart, gills and the intestine of fish samples. Lesions in the liver were severed in T4 and T5.&#x0D; Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that 50% inclusion of DPF is the safe level for growth of C. gariepinus. Since the histological results revealed no lesions in all the vital organs, except the liver that had severe lesions, DPF can be recommended as an alternative feed ingredient.

Evaluation of the in vivo anthelmintic properties of Mitragyna inermis (Willd.) as a livestock dewormer against parasitic hematophagous worm Haemonchus contortus infections in different breeds of lambs.

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes remain a major constraint on livestock production throughout the world. This study assessed the in vivo efficacy of the powder of Mitragyna inermis leaves in three breeds of lambs, namely, West African dwarf lambs (WAD), West African long-legged lambs (WALL), and F1 lambs (cross of a WALL ram with a WAD ewe), artificially infected with 3000 L3s of Haemonchus contortus in a controlled experiment. Fecal sample examination, serological analysis, and necropsy were carried out to determine the egg count, worm burden, and worm fecundity reduction. A dose of 3.2g/kg body weight (BW) M. inermis was administered per the oral route for three consecutive days and repeated 2weeks later. Compared with the control, the powder of M. inermis leaves (> 60%) and albendazole (100%) significantly reduced (p < 0.01) fecal egg counts (FECs) in the three breeds of lambs. The posttreatment reduction in FECs fluctuated from 56.99 to 78.75% for WAD lambs, 38.39 to 66.39% for WALL lambs, and 35.55 to 63.11% for F1 lambs (WALL × WAD). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in packed cell volume values before and after infection. M. inermis reduced the egg-laying capacity of female adult worms by up to 60% and eliminated more than 80% of the adult worms of H. contortus in lambs. Furthermore, albendazole reduced the worm count and fecundity of female worms by greater amounts than M. inermis (100%). The findings of this study showed that M. inermis is a good source of bioactive compounds for drug development. According to this result, a 3.2g/kg BW dose of the plant could be applied for the control of GI nematodes in small ruminants.

Resistance of Black Bengal goat to Haemonchus contortus

Artificial challenge trial and field trial were carried out in two populations of Black Bengal goat in Bangladesh to evaluate the resistance to Haemonchus Contortus-a major gastrointestinal nematode in goat. Artificial challenge trial revealed that there was no difference in susceptibility of H. contortus in Black Bengal goat of hilly region (BBH) and Black Bengal goat of western region (BBW). In absence of parasitic infection, growth rate of kids of both populations were almost equal. Field trial was conducted with kids of BBW population to find out the within breed variation. Numerically, there was variation among the individuals for parasitic load however the results were statistically insignificant (p &gt; 0.05). At individual level, the parasite load ranged from 100 to 400 eggs per gram (epg). The location of villages, age and sex of kids did not influence on the parasitic load of kids. There was no interaction for location, age and sex for body weight at day 8. The Packed Cell Volume and Hemoglobin values differed significantly (p &lt; 0.01) due to age of kids at day 8 and 28 after deworming. The results indicate that Black Bengal goat can be considered as resilience to H. contortus.&#x0D; Progressive Agriculture 30 (1): 55-64, 2019

Antioxidant potentials and effects on the hematology and osmotic fragility scores of a polyherbal formulation used in Southeast Nigeria.

Background In this study, the hematological and antioxidant potential as well as the osmotic fragility effects of a Nigerian polyherbal formulation were evaluated. Materials and methods A total of 40 fats were divided into four groups of 10 rats each. Group 1 served as the control group, and the rest were assigned increasing daily oral administration of the extract for 28 days. At the end of treatment, blood was collected for hematological and osmotic fragility studies. The free radical scavenging effect of the extract was investigated via different in vitro models as well. Results Results showed that the nitric oxide scavenging and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activities of the extract were significant (p < 0.05) and compared favorably with that of vitamin C. At 200 and 400 μg/mL, the nitric oxide scavenging activities for Ajumbise Polyherbal Extract (APE) were 60.71 ± 0.25% and 59.49 ± 0.98%, respectively, whereas for the same concentrations of vitamin C, 74.60 ± 0.25% and 85.24 ± 0.14 scavenging activities were obtained. The (DPPH) activity at 100 μg/mL was 81.24 ± 0.02% for the extract and 96.22 ± 0.18% for vitamin C. However, at all concentrations, the extract had significantly lower Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) activity than vitamin C. Red blood cell counts (RBCC), hemoglobin and packed cell volume values (PCV) were significantly lowered only in groups treated with 400 and 800 mg/kg of the extract (p < 0.05), whereas other RBCC parameters and white blood cell counts (WBCC) were not significantly affected (p < 0.05). Platelet (PLT) count was also significantly lowered in all extract-treated groups. The extract also significantly reduced RBCC percentage hemolysis (p < 0.05). Conclusions Ajumbise polyherbal may be free of hematoxicity and may improve the integrity of the RBC membrane due to its appreciable antioxidant activity.

Estimation of efficacy on tranexamic acid in reducing peri-operative blood loss in patient undergoing hemiarthroplasty

Introduction: Hip fracture surgeries are associated with substantial blood loss, exposing patients to postoperative anemia. The severity of anemia is related to reduced functional recovery, which is related to long-term mortality. Patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty surgeries require 1 to 2 pints of blood transfusion post operatively. There are many transfusion related health hazards. Tranexamic acid is a less expensive pharmacological agent that interferes with fibrinolysis and reduces blood loss in hemiarthroplasty surgeries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of intra-venous administration of tranexamic acid in patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty with regards to blood loss at peri and post-operative period. Materials and Methods: Patients with fracture neck of femur, above 60 years who primarily presented to Emergency medical service medicine in our institution fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in our study. After obtaining the informed consent, patients were grouped into two categories; group 1 and group 2. Group 1 intervention: Placebo- 50 ml of normal saline intravenously was administered 10 minutes before starting the surgery. Group 2 intervention: Study-Tranexamic acid -1500mg diluted in 50ml normal saline intravenously was administered 10 minutes before the surgery. Intra-operative blood loss was assessed by collecting the number of fully soaked mopping pads, gauze pieces and the quantity of irrigation fluid after substracting the amount of saline wash. Post operatively the efficacy was assessed by evaluating the hemoglobin and packed cell volume values. The blood collected in the drain on day 1 and 2 were also analysed and compared between the control group and the study group. Result: In our study we included 40 patients who had undergone hemiarthroplasty for neck of femur fracture. Intra operatively we did PRBC transfusion for 11 patients in the control group and 3 patients in the study group. Postoperatively 2 patients received PRBC transfusion in the control group and none of the patients received PRBC transfusion in the study group. The post surgery blood loss was also very minimal in the control group as compared to the study group. Conclusion: In our study, there was a significant amount of blood loss reduction in tranexamic acid administered group when compared to the placebo group. Tranexamic acid was cost effective and safer when compared to blood components. Tranexamic acid was useful and effective in reducing intra-operative blood loss and reduces the need for blood transfusion post-operatively. Tranexamic acid should be considered for routine use in hemiarthroplasty surgery to decrease blood loss.

Profile of Haematological Parameters among Radiographers Exposed to Low-Dose X-Rays in Selected Port Harcourt Healthcare Facilities

X-rays are electromagnetic waves that can traverse the human body due to high energies (≥1.24 keV) and ultra-short wavelengths (≤10-10m). Acute exposures are harmful to human health, affecting hematopoietic systems among others. Workers experience these effects despite use of occupational exposure controls such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs). This study spanned May 2018 to February 2019, and was aimed at determining the effects of exposure to low-dose x-rays on haematological parameters of radiographers in Port-Harcourt. Delimitation was to a target population of radiographers who work for ≥ 6-hours daily and ≥ 5-days weekly, over ≥ 12-months, and a corresponding number of control subjects in five healthcare facilities. The cross-sectional retrospective comparative research design method was employed, and consisted of administered Questionnaire with a 100% response rate. Two sets of blood samples, collected 120 days apart, underwent clinical laboratory examinations. 30 exposed (case) and 30 unexposed (control) subjects, aged 25-54 years, participated in this study at a ratio of 1:1. Mean annual background x-ray room radiation level was 0.7724mSv (i.e. 0.6088mSv-0.8392mSv), and workers recorded 100% usage of PPEs and 86.7% (n=26) knowledge/awareness to adverse x-ray effects. Mean values for hematocrit, platelet, and mean cell volume, were higher, but White Blood Cells (WBCs) (P=0.025, 0.044), Neutrophils (P=0.018, 0.042), Lymphocytes (P=0.026, 0.025) were significantly lower, in the case vis-à-vis control groups. Haematological parameters showed no statistical differences between values for 1st and 2nd sample sets within each subject group. Normal blood cell morphologies predominated in the unexposed group (76.6% &amp; 86.7%), when compared to the exposed group (53.3% &amp; 50.0%), except for codocytes (z = -1.000, P=0.317). WBC values in radiographers inversely correlated with their duration of x-ray exposures (r = -0.431, P˂0.05).This study showed that chronic exposures to low-dose x-rays affect whole leucocyte parameters, despite implementation of PPEs.

In vitro and in vivo Areca catechu crude aqueous extract as an anthelmintic against Ascaridia galli infection in chickens.

Aim:Intestinal parasites cause severe diseases at poultry farms, especially in developing countries, including Indonesia. Infections cause significant decreases in productivity at poultry farms. Ascaridia galli is a common nematode found in chickens with a prevalence of up to 92%. This study evaluates the in vitro and in vivo effects of Areca catechu crude aqueous extract (AAE) as an anthelmintic against A. galli.Materials and Methods:In the in vitro study, already-infected slaughtered chickens were collected from local slaughterhouses in Yogyakarta. The chicken intestines were carefully examined and transported to the Parasitological Laboratory of Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta. A. galli was collected from the intestines and put into a Petri dish containing 0.62% saline solution. Sixty A. galli individuals were soaked in different concentrations of the AAE for 3-6 h. The number of deceased A. galli was recorded by ascertaining whether they had ceased movement using a stereo microscope. The morphological characteristics of the parasites were studied. The in vivo study used 40 female chickens that were 1.5 months old and infected with the eggs of A. galli. Approximately 3000 infective eggs were found in each chicken. There were four treatment groups; Group A served as the control and was treated with Aquadestilata, Group B was treated with 26 mg/ml of AAE, Group C was treated with 79 mg/ml of AAE, and Group D was treated with 50 mg/ml of pyrantel pamoate. The AAE was applied using a pipette for 14 days. The observed parameters include the effect of the treatments on hematology, body weight (BW), and the number of A. galli eggs within each gram of fecal matter.Results:The AAE damaged the morphology, including the anterior end, posterior end, and vulva, of A. galli in vitro. The tegument of the anterior and posterior ends was slightly rougher, wrinkled, and damaged. The vulva and spicule ducts were irregular and indistinct. The average eggs per gram (EPG) in the untreated control increased in vivo from 1450±355.90 to 1975±325.96. The average EPG decreased from 1485±386.62 to 0±0.00 during 14 days of treatment of 79 mg/ml of AAE. The mean BW gain in the treated chickens was significantly (p<0.5) higher than the control. The treatment with 79 mg/ml of AAE increased the total erythrocyte count, total leukocyte count, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume values in the chickens.Conclusion:AAE can cause morphological changes and subsequent death in adult A. galli in vitro and effectively decrease ascariasis severity in chickens, therefore increasing overall BW in vivo.

Does organic selenium supplement affect the thermoregulatory responses of dairy goats?

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the influence of dietary supplementation of organic selenium (Se) in non-lactating goats, as well as possible changes in the physiological responses of thermoregulation and in blood constituents under semiarid conditions. The study was undertaken for 42 consecutive days using 22 animals. Data were collected: (1) meteorological, (2) physiological and (3) haematological. The respiratory rate, rectal temperature, epidermis temperature and surface temperature of the pelt presented decreasing values from day zero to the 42nd day of evaluation, with the highest reduction in animals supplemented with Se. For haematological values, it was observed that the values of packet cell volume and mean corpuscular volume decreased significantly (p < 0.05) on the 42nd day of the experiment. For the animals that received dietary supplementation, it is possible to identify a greater association with factor 1, some haematological variables, and for factor 2, some physiological traits were also highlighted. The addition of Se in the diet reduced endogenous heat by reducing respiratory thermolysis and the superficial temperatures of the skin and epidermis, improving sensible and latent heat dissipation and keeping the rectal temperature within normal limits. Abbreviations: RR: respiratory rate; RT: rectal temperature; CT: coat surface temperature; ET: epidermis temperature; RH: relative humidity; AT: air temperature; RHL: radiant heat load; BGHI: black globe humidity index, PCV: packet cell volume; HC: haemoglobin concentration; MCV: mean cell volume; MCH: mean cell haemoglobin; MCHC: mean cell haemoglobin concentration; WBC: white blood cell count; RBC: red blood cell; PCA: principal component analysis.

BLOOD INDICES OF AFRICAN CATFISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS) FOLLOWING DIETARY ADMINISTRATION OF TALINUM TRIANGULARE

The effects of Talinum triangulare on the haematological indices of Clarias gariepinus was investigated. T. triangulare leaf powder at 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0% concentrations were fed to Clarias gariepinus juveniles (n=84; 117.3 ± 1.57 g; 26.70 ± 0.26 cm) as feed additive for a period of six (6) weeks. The packed cell volume (PCV) and Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration values, 34.67 ± 0.67%, 12.03 ± 0.26g/dl, respectively observed in the group fed with 1.0% were significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) compare with the control group. Red blood cell counts (RBCs), white blood cell counts (WBCs), lymphocytes, MCV, MCH and MCHC recorded were marginally different (P&gt;0.05) among the groups, were within standard for Clarias gariepinus, therefore adjudged not to indicate a negative physiological effect on the experimental fish. Blood indices values observed revealed that the varying additive levels of T. triangulare used had no negative physiological stress on the health status of the fish studied and haematological values observed were seen to be best in the group fed 1.0% T. triangulare. It could be recommended that 10g/kg of Talinum triangulare leaf powder be included in the diet of Clarias gariepinus for boosting of the animal blood and treatment of disease conditions such as anaemia.