Complete Blood Count Analysis Research Articles

Effectiveness of Grounded Sleeping on Recovery After Intensive Eccentric Muscle Loading.

Purpose: We set out to investigate the effectiveness of grounded sleeping on the time course of recovery with respect to muscle soreness and athletic performance after intensive eccentric muscle loading.Methods: Twenty-two healthy participants were recruited for this study and randomly assigned to an experimental group (GRD, grounded sleeping, n = 12) or control group (UGD, sham-grounded sleeping, n = 10) to evaluate the effects of 10 days recovery with GRD vs. UGD following a single intensive downhill treadmill intervention in a triple-blinded (participant, tester, and data analyst) manner. To operationalize recovery a test battery was performed at baseline and on days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 post-intervention: (1) perception of muscle soreness (VAS), (2) creatine kinase blood levels (CK), (3) maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) for both legs, (4) counter movement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) performance. Furthermore, in four participants blood was sampled for detailed analysis of complete blood counts and serum-derived inflammation markers.Results: The downhill treadmill running intervention led to distinct changes in all measured parameters related to fatigue. These changes were detectable already 5-min post intervention and were not fully recovered 10 days post intervention. GRD led to less pronounced decrease in performance (CMJ, MVIC) and less increase with respect to CK compared with UGD (all P < 0.05). Detailed blood samples demonstrated that grounded sleeping modulates the recovery process by (a) keeping a constant hemoconcentration, as represented by the number of erythrocytes, and the hemoglobin/hematocrit values; and (b) by the reduction of muscle damage-associated inflammation markers such as, IP-10, MIP-1α, and sP-Selectin.Conclusion: The downhill running protocol is a feasible methodology to produce long term muscle soreness and muscular fatigue. GRD was shown to result in faster recovery and/or less pronounced markers of muscle damage and inflammation. GRD might be seen as a simple methodology to enhance acute and long-term recovery after intensive eccentric exercises.

Lanthanum Zirconate Nanoparticles, used in Blades of Gas Turbine Engines, Can Disturb Behavior, Leukocyte Count and Antioxidant Metabolites of Vital Organs of Albino Mice

Lanthanum Zirconate (La2Zr2O7) nanoparticles (NPs) are generally used in blades of gas turbine engines to thermally insulate them and to protect them against hot and corrosive gas streams. The present research experiment was aimed to determine the effect of Lanthanum Zirconate NPs on selected aspects of behavior, serum biochemistry, complete blood count and antioxidant metabolites from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner. Seven weeks old mice were administered orally with 25mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles for consecutive 22 days. Saline treated control groups were maintained in parallel. It was observed that neuromuscular coordination was significantly improved (P = 0.01) in NPs treated female mice while rearing frequency was significantly decreased (P = 0.004) in NPs treated male mice than their respective controls. Complete blood count analysis revelaed that NPs treated female mice had significantly reduced white blood cell (P = 0.04) and lymphocyte count (P = 0.02) than control group. It was observed that Superoxide dismutase concentrations in kidney (P = 0.04), Malonaldehyde concentrations in brain (P = 0.002), heart (P = 0.001), liver (P = 0.05) of male and in kidney (P = 0.001) of NPs treated female mice were significantly higher than their respective control groups. In conclusion, we are reporting that oral supplementation with 25mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles is affecting neuromuscular coordination, exploratory behavior, leukocyte count and antioxidant metabolites from vital organs in a gender specific manner with more pronounced effects in male.

Assessment of neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage in bronchial asthma

Background Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage is a helpful test for evaluation of systemic inflammation. This study aimed to investigate neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage as an evidence of control status in bronchial asthma. Patients and methods The study included 45 (20 males and 25 females) patients and 45 apparently healthy subjects. Full clinical evaluation, complete blood count (CBC) with differential white blood cell count, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and total IgE measurement were done for participants. Results Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage and CRP were higher in asthmatics than controls (statistically significant difference), and they were significantly increased with uncontrolled asthma. Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage could predict uncontrolled asthma with a sensitivity of 66.7%, specificity of 75.6%, positive predictive value of 73.2%, negative predictive value of 69.4% and accuracy of 71.1%. Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage increased in asthmatics with asthma control test (ACT) less than 20 versus patients with ACT of at least 20 (statistically significant difference), whereas neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage did not differ significantly among the patients with asthma regarding sex and smoking. Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage had direct proportional relation with CRP and ACT, whereas the relations between neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage and age, eosinophils, IgE, Forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1%), duration of the disease, or number of attacks per year were nonsignificant. No significant correlation was found between controlled and uncontrolled cases regarding total leukocyte count (TLC), duration, and onset of the disease. The number of attacks was significantly higher in uncontrolled cases than controlled ones. Conclusion Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage could predict uncontrolled asthma with high sensitivity and specificity. Neutrophil/lymphocyte percentage is a rapid, inexpensive method with routine CBC analysis and could be a useful predictor of asthma control.

Sodium Iodide: an Alternative Treatment Option for Feline Sporotrichosis?

Background: Sporotrichosis is caused by pathogenic fungi of the genus Sporothrix. The clinically relevant species are S. schenckii, S. globosa and S. brasiliensis. In Brazil, S. brasiliensis is the most prevalent etiological agent among humans and cats. In cats with sporotrichosis, skin lesions are mainly characterized by nodules and ulcers, usually located in the head, nasal region and limbs. The presence of respiratory signs concomitantly with cutaneous lesions is frequent, especially sneezing, and may be associated with lesions located in the nasal mucosa. Ketoconazole (KTZ), itraconazole (ITZ), potassium iodide (KI), sodium iodide (NaI), terbinafine (TRB), fluconazole (FLZ) and amphotericin B (AMB) are the drugs currently available for treating feline sporotrichosis. ITZ remains the drug of choice. ITZ combined with KI has been successfully used in the treatment of naïve cats (especially cases with lesions in the nasal region), cases of recurrence and refractory to ITZ. Clinical cure with NaI has been described in some cases, but its use has been limited by adverse reactions. The conventional formulation is the saturated solution and the recommended dose in the treatment of feline sporotrichosis is 10 mg/kg every 12 h. Cats are sensitive to iodide preparations and should be carefully monitored for clinical evidence of iodism, such as apathy, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, hypothermia, hyperthermia, cardiomyopathy, hyperexcitability, muscular spasms and ptyalism. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic response of NaI capsules in feline sporotrichosis.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: An observational cohort study was conducted in cats with sporotrichosis at the Laboratory of Clinical Research in Dermatozoonoses in Domestic Animals (Lapclin-Dermzoo), Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI)/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Twenty-eight cats with sporotrichosis confirmed by isolation of Sporothrix spp. in culture, no previous systemic antifungal therapy, and weight above 3.0 kg, were included in the study. The treatment consisted of NaI oral capsules (5 mg/kg/once daily). In cats without clinical improvement after one month of treatment, the dose was increased (10 mg/kg/once daily). The cats were followed up monthly by clinical examination, complete blood count and biochemical analysis (urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase - ALT, aspartate aminotransferase - AST, alkaline phosphatase - FA). All procedures were approved by the Animal Ethics Committee (CEUA/Fiocruz), number LW 56/13, and the informed consent term was obtained from all tutors. Clinical cure was achieved in six (21.4%) cases and treatment failure was observed in 13 (46.4%) animals. Seven (25%) cats were lost during follow up, and unknown causes of death occurred in two cases (7.1%). Ten animals (35.7%) presented clinical adverse reactions at some point during treatment. Hyporexia and weight loss were the most frequent ones. Three cats presented alteration in renal function.Discussion: Treatment of feline sporotrichosis in epizootic areas has been a challenge for veterinarians and tutors. Additionally, there are few studies evaluating treatment regimens for this mycosis in animals. In this study, NaI was compounded in capsules, because it is easier to administer when compared to the solution, as previously described for KI. Despite the low cost and the convenient administration of the capsule, NaI presented a low cure rate with the dose used. The study of new pharmaceutical forms and lower doses of low-cost drugs is necessary in a scenario of epizootic sporotrichosis, where investments for the development of new antifungal agents are scarce.

Analysis of Children with Secondary ITP an Observational Study of Children of the Parc-ITP Registry of the Intercontinental Cooperative ITP Study Group (ICIS)

Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder of variable origin that results in bleeding and decreased platelet count. Primary ITP in children is a diagnosis of exclusion, but following practice guidelines only medical history, clinical examination, complete blood count and blood smear analysis are mandatory for diagnosis. Secondary ITP can be difficult to be diagnosed at initial presentation and is frequently identified during the course of the disease. Little is known about children with secondary ITP after a diagnosis of primary ITP. We are describing such patients within a 2 year observation period.Methods and Materials: Data for this study were extracted from the Pediatric and Adult Registry on Chronic ITP (PARC-ITP), an international multi-center registry designed to collect data prospectively in children and adults with newly diagnosed primary ITP. Children aged 3 months to 16 years with a corrected diagnosis of secondary ITP within 24 months after having been diagnosed with primary ITP were included in this analysis. We excluded 37 patients with an undefined diagnosis of secondary ITP, i.e. all patients without a clear statement of the cause of secondary ITP. A correction of diagnosis was reported at 6, 12 or 24 months of follow-up (FU) investigations. Clinical and laboratory data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.Results: A total of 3581 evaluable children with the initial diagnosis of primary ITP were recorded in the PARC-ITP database between 2004 and 2017. Secondary ITP was reported in 99 patients within 24 months FU, 60 were females (60%) with a mean age of 7.13 years (SD 5.2). Diagnosis of secondary ITP was reported with the first FU dataset (6 months after initial diagnosis) in 66 patients. Infectious and autoimmune diseases were the main causes for secondary ITP reported in 43 and 38 patients, respectively. Mean age of patients with infectious diseases was 4.3 years (SD 4.2) and 10 years (SD 4.5) for those with an autoimmune disorder. Other underlying causes were malignancy (n=6), aplastic anemia (n=7), immunodeficiency (n=4) and drugs (n=1). Mean platelet count at initial diagnosis was 22x109/L (SD 24), and 62 patients had a platelet count of < 20x109/l. Patients with malignancy and aplastic anemia had a higher initial platelet count (37 and 38x109/l respectively), than patients with infection or autoimmune diseases (22 and 18x109/l respectively). At the time point of reported secondary ITP the median platelet count was 171x109/L (SD 124) with 59 patients exhibiting platelet counts > 100x109/L. Patients with autoimmune diseases had a higher rate of persisting ITP (61%), than patients with infectious diseases (19%). Overall initial bleeding frequency (n=82) and bleeding location were similar to children with primary ITP. Wet bleeding defined as mucosal bleeding was initially reported in 36% of patients with no differences in the various subgroups. One patient exhibited an intracranial haemorrhage during the course of secondary ITP. A watch and wait strategy was initially applied in 34 patients (34%).Discussion: The diagnosis of primary ITP appears to be accurate for most of the children reported to the PARC-ITP Registry, however, a minority of them experiences a correction of the diagnosis from primary into secondary ITP. Some differences were found for age, sex and initial platelet count in the subgroups of secondary ITP depending on etiology. The characteristics of patients with secondary ITP due to an infection are very similar to primary ITP, reflecting probably similar pathophysiological mechanisms of the immune system. Bleeding symptoms were very similar in all groups.Conclusion: Little is known about patients with initial primary ITP and revision of the diagnosis. This is the first analysis of children with a critical appraisal of the diagnosis “primary ITP”. DisclosuresKuehne:Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; UCB: Consultancy.

A novel complete blood count-based score to screen for myelodysplastic syndrome in cytopenic patients.

The diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) is often challenging, time- and resource-consuming. A thorough analysis of complete blood count (CBC) parameters could, however, help to screen for MDS among other causes of cytopenia. To test this hypothesis, 109 newly-diagnosed MDS patients and 399 cytopenic patients older than 50years with confirmed absence of MDS were enrolled in a prospective study. Multiparametric analysis highlighted three CBC parameters that were significantly different between the two cohorts: mean corpuscular volume, absolute neutrophil count and median neutrophil complexity and width of dispersion of the events measured (Ne-WX), which were used to define an MDS-CBC score. This score enables the prediction of MDS with 86% sensitivity and 88% specificity. The MDS-CBC score excluded MDS in 89% of cytopenic controls. Moreover, high score values at MDS diagnosis significantly correlated with decreased event-free (P=0·02) and overall survival (P=0·01). The power of this score was confirmed in an independent validation cohort (MDS n=34, cytopenic controls n=28). The MDS-CBC score is an easy and fast tool to exclude or suspect MDS in unselected patients with cytopenia of unknown reasons at the time of analysis, by prompting blood smear examination. It may thus improve allocation of further MDS-specific work-up in patients with cytopenia at the time of CBC assessment.

Diagnostic approach of anemia in ruminants

Anemia in ruminants is an abnormal condition characterized by the decrease of the hematocrit (Packed Cell Volume, PCV), the mass of erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells, RBCs) and/or hemoglobin. Anemia is classified as hemolytic, hemorrhagic or anemia caused by the decreased production of erythrocytes; the first two categories are characterized by a regenerative response. Hemorrhagic anemia can be caused by ectoparasites or parasites of the gastrointestinal system, hemorrhagic bowel syndrome, abomasal ulcers, vena cava thrombosis as well as from the genitourinary tract. In addition, primary and secondary hemostatic disorders can be accompanied by hemorrhagic anemia. Hemoparasites, toxins produced from Clostridium perfringens type D and Clostridium hemolyticum and leptospirosis are some of the causes of hemolytic anemia. Furthermore, certain plants, drugs or heavy metals and lack of certain trace elements can cause hemolysis. Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia has also been reported in ruminants. The reduced production of erythrocytes can be caused by deficiency of vitamin B12 or iron, as well as by chronic diseases. Pathologic conditions of bone marrow like inflammatory or neoplastic cells filtration and hypoplasia or aplasia of bone marrow are related to reduced production of erythrocytes. After laboratory confirmation by complete blood count analysis, history taking, clinical examination of the animal and specific test depending on the case, are required for the diagnostic approach of anemia and especially for etiological diagnosis. Tachycardia, tachypnea, icterus, mucosal pallor as well as specific symptoms of the underlying disease are observed during the clinical examination of the animal. FAMACHA technique is widely used for the clinical diagnosis and the assessment of the severity of anemia. With respect to complete blood count, apart from the hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, erythrocytes indices as Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) are contributing to the classification of anemia. The size and the shape of the erythrocytes, the appearance of inclusions and reticulocytes, which are indicative of regenerative anemia, are evaluated in blood smear. Rarely, examination of bone marrow is carried out, for the differentiation of anemia as regenerative or non-regenerative. In particular, the confirmation of immune- mediate anemia is based on Coomb’s test for the detection of autoagglutination. Except from hemorrhage, blood loss is detected at urinalysis or feces microscopy for the presence of blood and/or parasites. Finally, serological and molecular techniques for the detection of infectious agents, as well as specific toxicological analysis are performed in various biological materials.

Can Serum Mean Platelet Volume be Used as an Inflammatory Marker in Patients with Celiac Disease?

Background and Aims: Mean platelet volume has been studied as a simple inflammatory marker in several diseases. Some studies have reported that mean platelet volume increases in myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular disease. Contrarily, it decreases in rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether mean platelet volume was changed in celiac disease and whether it could be used to monitor a gluten-free diet in patients. Materials and Methods: After excluding patients with severe comorbidities and patients who did not comply with the gluten-free diet, a total of 50 patients with celiac disease (men/women: 9/41) and 50 healthy subjects (men/women: 10/40) were included in the study. The diagnosis of celiac disease was based on standard serological, endoscopic, and histological criteria. The study enrolled patients with celiac disease who recovered clinically and serologically 1 year after gluten-free diet. Complete blood count analyses were performed within 2 h after collection with the use of the Beckman coulter analyzer. Results: Mean platelet volume levels were not significantly different in the celiac disease group than that of in the control group. In the celiac disease group, the mean platelet volume levels did not change after 1 year of gluten-free diet compared with the time of celiac disease diagnosis. On the contrary, a decrease in the platelet count after gluten-free diet was detected. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that mean platelet volume is not altered in patients with celiac disease, and it also showed that mean platelet volume cannot be used as a marker for predicting dietary compliance in patients with celiac disease.

Effects of core size and PEG coating layer of iron oxide nanoparticles on the distribution and metabolism in mice.

IntroductionIn vivo distribution of polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated functional nanoparticles is vital for determining their imaging function and therapeutic efficacy in nanomedicine. However, contradictory results have been reported regarding the effect of core size and PEG surface of the nanoparticles on biodistribution.MethodsTo clarify this ambiguous understanding, using iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) as a model system, we investigated the effect of core size and PEG molecule weights on in vivo distribution in mice. Three PEGylated IONPs, including 14 nm IONP@PEG2,000, 14 nm IONP@PEG5,000, and 22 nm IONP@PEG5,000, were prepared with a hydrodynamic size of 26, 34, and 81 nm, respectively. The blood pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution were investigated in detail.ResultsThe results indicated that the PEG layer, rather than core size, played a dominant role in determining the half-life time of IONPs. Specifically, increased molecular weight of the PEG layer led to a longer half-life time. These PEGylated IONPs were mainly excreted by liver clearance. While the PEG molecular layer constituted the key factor to determine the clearance ratio, core size affected the clearance rate.ConclusionComplete blood count analysis and histopathology suggested excellent biocompatibility of PEGylated IONPs for future clinical trials.

Evaluation of mean platelet volume and platelet count in patients with schizophrenia

Introduction: Compared to the general population, cardiovascular diseases are more common in schizophrenia patients and the mortality rate is higher than the general population. One of the explanations for increased cardiovascular events in patients with schizophrenia is the increase in platelet activity. Platelets are essential for progression of atherosclerotic lesions, plaque destabilization, and thrombus formation. Mean platelet volume (MPV) is a measure of platelet size and a good marker of platelet function and activation, which increases in cardiovascular diseases. MPV is routinely reported during complete blood count analysis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate MPV values of patients with schizophrenia. Methods: In this retrospective study, hospital-records of the patients who were consecutively admitted to psychiatry inpatient clinic between January 2015 and January 2017 with the diagnosis of schizophrenia were reviewed. Healthy subjects with no personal history of psychiatric disorder were included as a control group. Results: A total of 100 (59 female, 41 male) schizophrenic patients who had been consecutively admitted to the psychiatry inpatient clinic and 37 (20 female, 17 male) healthy controls were included in this retrospective study. There were no significant differences between the patient group and control group in the terms of age (mean age patient group vs control group: 37.72 vs 35.03, p=0.081) and sex (p=0.603). Body mass index (BMI) was found to be significantly different between groups, higher in the patient group (p=0.001). The MPV was found to be significantly higher in patient group compared with the control group (MPV, patient group vs control group: 10.34 fL vs 9.97 fL, p=0.041). Platelet count (PC) was significantly lower in the patient group (PC, patient group vs control group: 234.36 vs 267.38, p=0.008) There was no correlation between MPV and BMI (p=0.354, r=0.10), and duration of illness (p=0.530, r=0.06). Conclusions: As a result, increased MPV and decreased PC were found in a group of schizophrenic patient in this study. Since increased MPV and decreased PC are evaluated as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in the general population, they can also be considered as a predictor of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases that are more frequently encountered in schizophrenia.

Red Cell Indices and Hemoglobin Profile of Newborn Babies with Both the Sickle Gene and Alpha Thalassaemia in Central India.

This study evaluated the effect of alpha thalassemia on the red cell indices and hemoglobin profiles of normal, sickle heterozygous and sickle homozygous newborn babies in central India where the sickle gene is linked to the Arab-Indian haplotype. 265 newborn babies were analysed with complete blood count and hemoglobin analysis on high performance liquid chromatography (Variant Hb Testing System, BioRad Laboratories, Hercules, CA, USA) using the β-thal short program. The sickle genotypes was confirmed by DNA analysis. The two common alpha gene deletions (- α3.7 and - α4.2) were detected by multiplex PCR. Among the 102 normal, 106 sickle heterozygous and 57 sickle homozygous newborns, the prevalence of a single alpha gene deletion (- α/αα) was 28.3% and that of deletion of 2 alpha genes (- α/- α) was 21.5%. In all, 57 normal (55.9%), 35 (33.0%) sickle heterozygous and 41 (71.9%) sickle homozygous newborns had a normal α genotype while - α/- α was seen in 23 (22.5%) normal, 30 (28.3%) sickle heterozygous and 4 (7.0%) sickle homozygous newborns respectively. The presence of associated alpha thalassemia resulted in a reduction in the hemoglobin levels and red cell indices in normal, sickle heterozygous and sickle homozygous newborn babies, MCV and MCH being strong discriminators of alpha thalassemia with two alpha gene deletions in all the three groups. This study also helped us to know the variations in hematological parameters in normal, sickle heterozygous and sickle homozygous newborns with and without associated α thalassemia.

In vivo biodistribution and toxicology studies of cadmium-free indium-based quantum dot nanoparticles in a rat model

Quantum dot (QD) nanoparticles are highly promising contrast agents and probes for biomedical applications owing to their excellent photophysical properties. However, toxicity concerns about commonly used cadmium-based QDs hinder their translation to clinical applications. In this study we describe the in vivo biodistribution and toxicology of indium-based water soluble QDs in rats following intravenous administration. The biodistribution measured at up to 90 days showed that QDs mainly accumulated in the liver and spleen, with similar elimination kinetics to subcutaneous administration. Evidence for QD degradation in the liver was found by comparing photoluminescence measurements versus elemental analysis. No organ damage or histopathological lesions were observed for the QDs treated rats after 24 h, 1 and 4 weeks following intravenous administration at 12.5 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg. Analysis of serum biochemistry and complete blood counts found no toxicity. This work supports the strong potential of indium-based QDs for translation into the clinic.

Analysis of Short Stature in Children

Growth is a continuous biologic process influenced by genetic, nutritional, environmental, and hormonal factors. Normal growth can occur only if the individual is healthy. Longitudinal growth assessment is essential in child care. Short stature can be promptly recognized only with accurate measurements of growth and critical analysis of growth data. The objective of this study was to assess the characteristics of patients referred to pediatric clinic because of short stature and determination of the etiology in tertiary care hospitals of Southeast Asia. This is a retrospective study of patients referred to a pediatric clinic with short stature during the period March 2015 to March 2018. After a proper detailed medical history, growth analysis and physical examination, followed by a radiological (bone age) and laboratory screening (complete blood count, urine and stool analysis and also thyroid function). Growth hormone stimulation tests were performed when indicated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary was performed if required. As well, celiac screening and small bowel biopsy were performed when appropriate. During the period, two hundred and thirty eight patients were evaluated for short stature. Their age ranged from 3 years to 12 years. The male to female ratio was 1.3:1. The commonest etiology was genetic short stature found in 32 patients, while in the remaining patients, nutritional, endocrine, metabolic and other causes were noted. Short stature was a common referral. A wide variety of etiological diagnosis was noticed with genetic short stature being the commonest. A wide variety of endocrine causes were evident, with growth hormone deficiency, as a results of different etiologies, being the commonest.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ANEMIA AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG ELDERLY IN RURAL AREAS, SHARKIA GOVERNORATE

Background: Anemia is a common, multifactorial condition in the elderly; it is prevalence increases with age which adversely affects older adult's general health and physical activity. Rural elderly are more prone to becoming anemic due to lack of medical facilities and poor economic conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between anemia and physical activity among elderly in rural areas, Sharkia governorate. Design: A cross-sectional descriptive design was utilized in the study. Setting: The study was conducted at Sharkiat Mobasher Village, Elibrahemya District, Sharkia Governorate. Sample: A systematic random sampling technique of 150 elderly, then anemic elderly were selected and given the nutritional guidelines. Tools: Four tools were used to collect the study data: I) A structured interview sheet. II) The Mini Nutritional Assessment short form (MNA). III) Assessment of elderly's activity level [Katz scale for activities of daily life (ADLs) & International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form]. IV) Laboratory investigations [complete blood count (CBC) & stool analysis]. Results: The study results revealed that the prevalence of anemia among the studied elderly was 36.7%. The anemic elderly had poorer physical activity level and more disability in activities of daily living than non-anemic elderly. Conclusion: Anemia representing an important health problem among older individuals and had an adverse effect on the elderly's physical activity. Recommendation: Health education programs to increase the elderly awareness about the importance of periodic medical check-up and healthy life habits.

The Prevalence and Predictors of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Rural Infants in Nablus Governorate.

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in infants and young children remains a significant public health problem in most developing countries. IDA had short and long-term adverse impacts on infants' health and development. We aimed to assess the frequency of IDA and associated risk factors among infants aged between 9-12 months in rural areas of Nablus Governorate. A cross-sectional study. The study was conducted between Jan and Mar 2015. A random sample of 654 infants aged 9-12 months were selected from thirty villages in Nablus Governorate, Central Highlands of the West Bank, north of Jerusalem. Data were collected using pre-designed structured interviewing questionnaire, complete blood count analysis and anthropometric measurements were done. The prevalence of anemia and IDA among infants was 34.6%, and 32.6%, respectively. Predictors of IDA were increased in infants' age OR=1.19 (95% CI: 1.02, 1.40), maternal anemia during the third trimester OR=2.39 (95% CI: 1.55, 3.71), birth spacing less than three years OR=2.86 (95%CI: 1.58, 5.18), exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months OR=2.40 (95% CI: 1.46, 3.95), early OR=1.64 (95%CI: 1.03, 2.613) and late introduction of complementary feeding OR=2.26 (95% CI: 1.27, 4.05), and non-compliance to iron supplement in the correct frequency and duration during pregnancy OR=1.81 (95% CI: 1.19, 2.75). Different dietary and non-dietary risk factors for IDA should be considered for any intervention aimed to reduce the prevalence of IDA among infants.

Value of the Delta Neutrophil Index for Predicting 28-Day Mortality in Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolism in the Emergency Department.

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE), frequently seen in the emergency department (ED), is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The delta neutrophil index (DNI) reflects the fraction of circulating immature granulocytes as a component of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria. The pathogenesis of acute PE is significantly associated with inflammation. The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of the DNI as a marker of severity in patients with acute PE admitted to the ED. We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients who were diagnosed with acute PE at a single ED, admitted from January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2017. The diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism was confirmed using clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings. The DNI was determined at presentation. The clinical outcome was all-cause mortality within 28 days of emergency department admission. We included 447 patients in this study. The multivariate Cox regression model demonstrated that higher DNI values on ED admission were significantly associated with short-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.107; 95% confidence interval, 1.042-1.177). The optimal cut-off DNI value, measured on ED admission, was 3.0%; this value was associated with an increased hazard of 28-day mortality following PE (HR, 7.447; 95% CI, 4.183-13.366; P < 0.001) CONCLUSION:: The DNI value, obtained as part of the complete blood count analysis, can be easily determined without additional burdens of cost or time. A high DNI is useful as a marker to predict 28-day mortality in patients with acute PE.

Oral supplementation of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles moderately affected behavior but drastically disturbed leukocyte count, serum cholesterol levels and antioxidant parameters from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner.

Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles (NPs) are used in blades of gas turbine engines to thermally insulate them and to protect them against hot and corrosive gas streams. However, the information regarding their biocompatibility is limited. The present study was aimed to report the effect of Lanthanum Zirconate NPs on selected aspects of behavior, serum biochemistry, complete blood count and antioxidant parameters from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner. Albino mice, seven weeks old, were orally treated with 75mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles for consecutive 22days. Saline treated control groups were maintained in parallel. It was observed that rearing frequency was significantly decreased (P= 0.01) in NPs treated male mice. Complete blood count analysis indicated that NPs treated female mice had significantly reduced white blood cells (P= 0.05) and lymphocytes count (P= 0.03). NPs treated male had significantly reduced serum cholesterol levels (P= 0.05) than control group. It was observed that Superoxide dismutase concentrations in liver (P = 0.025) and kidney (P = 0.008), Malondialdehyde concentrations in liver (P= 0.044) of female and Malondialdehyde concentrations in kidney (P< 0.001) and brain (P< 0.001) and catalase concentrations in liver (P= 0.05) of NPs treated male mice were significantly higher than their respective control groups.. In conclusion, we are reporting that oral supplementation with 75mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles can affect the behavior, leukocyte count, serum cholesterol and antioxidant metabolites from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner.

A New Inflammatory Marker: Elevated Monocyte to HDL Cholesterol Ratio Associated with Smoking.

Objectives: The adverse effects of smoking in various pathologies are mediated by its effects on the inflammatory system. The monocyte to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (MHR) has recently emerged as an indicator of inflammation. We aimed to investigate the relationship between MHR and cigarette smoking. Patients and Methods: Three hundred and ninety seven consecutive participants who smoke and 515 healthy subjects with no history of smoking enrolled in the study. Complete blood count parameters and lipid profile were analyzed in all study participants. Smoking habits were calculated as pack.years and number of cigarettes smoked per day. Results: MHR levels were significantly higher in smokers compared to non-smokers (respectively, 15.71 (12.02–20.00) and 11.17 (8.50–14.16), p < 0.0001)). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a weak but positive correlation between pack.year and MHR in the smokers group, and there was a moderate positive correlation between the number of cigarettes smoked daily and MHR in the group. In receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analyses, it was determined that a MHR value >13.00 measured in smoker participants at application had a predictive specificity of 66.6% and sensitivity of 70.0% for smoking (area under the curve [AUC] 0.729, 95% CI 0.696, 0.762; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Elevated MHR is associated with cigarette smoking and may be a useful indicator of a systemic inflammatory response in smokers. Smoker participants who have high MHR levels can easily be identified during routine complete blood count (CBC) analysis and could possibly benefit from preventive treatment.

Impact of nitinol stent surface processing on in-vivo nickel release and biological response

Although nitinol is widely used in percutaneous cardiovascular interventions, a causal relationship between nickel released from implanted cardiovascular devices and adverse systemic or local biological responses has not been established. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between nitinol surface processing, in-vivo nickel release, and biocompatibility. Nitinol stents manufactured using select surface treatments were implanted into the iliac arteries of minipigs for 6 months. Clinical chemistry profile, complete blood count, serum and urine nickel analyses were performed periodically during the implantation period. After explant, stented arteries were either digested and analyzed for local nickel concentration or fixed and sectioned for histopathological analysis of stenosis and inflammation within the artery. The results indicated that markers for liver and kidney function were not different than baseline values throughout 180 days of implantation regardless of surface finish. In addition, white blood cell, red blood cell, and platelet counts were similar to baseline values for all surface finishes. Systemic nickel concentrations in serum and urine were not significantly different between processing groups and comparable to baseline values during 180 days of implantation. However, stents with non-optimized surface finishing had significantly greater nickel levels in the surrounding artery compared to polished stents. These stents had increased stenosis with potential for local inflammation compared to polished stents. These findings demonstrate that proper polishing of nitinol surfaces can reduce in-vivo nickel release locally, which may aid in minimizing adverse inflammatory reactions and restenosis. Statement of significanceNitinol is a commonly used material in cardiovascular medical devices. However, relationships between nitinol surface finishing, in-vivo metal ion release, and adverse biological responses have yet to be established. We addressed this knowledge gap by implanting single and overlapped nitinol stents with different surface finishes to assess systemic impact on minipigs (i.e. serum and urine nickel levels, liver and kidney function, immune and blood count) over the 6 month implantation period. In addition, nickel levels and histopathology in stented arteries were analyzed on explant to determine relationships between surface processing and local adverse tissue reactions. The findings presented here highlight the importance of surface processing on in-vivo nickel release and subsequent impact on local biological response for nitinol implants.

Bacterial and Pneumocystis Infections in the Lungs of Gene-Knockout Rabbits with Severe Combined Immunodeficiency.

Using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, we recently produced a number of rabbits with mutations in immune function genes, including FOXN1, PRKDC, RAG1, RAG2, and IL2RG. Seven founder knockout rabbits (F0) and three male IL2RG null (−/y) F1 animals demonstrated severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), characterized by absence or pronounced hypoplasia of the thymus and splenic white pulp, and absence of immature and mature T and B-lymphocytes in peripheral blood. Complete blood count analysis showed severe leukopenia and lymphocytopenia accompanied by severe neutrophilia. Without prophylactic antibiotics, the SCID rabbits universally succumbed to lung infections following weaning. Pathology examination revealed severe heterophilic bronchopneumonia caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica in several animals, but a consistent feature of lung lesions in all animals was a severe interstitial pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis oryctolagi, as confirmed by histological examination and PCR analysis of Pneumocystis genes. The results of this study suggest that these SCID rabbits could serve as a useful model for human SCID to investigate the disease pathogenesis and the development of gene and drug therapies.