Red Blood Cell Concentration Research Articles

Study the effect of barely drinks on some haematological variables on male rats

The purpose of the experiment was to determine how barley drink affected the physiological and biochemical changes in male white rats. The lab animals were divided into four groups of five male white rats apiece, in comparison to the control group, the Saudi and Iraqi drink groups, and the beer drink group, the results showed a significant increase (P≤0.05) in haemoglobin and a percentage of agglutinated cells in the beer drink group, respectively. Compared to the control group and the Iraqi barley drink group, the Saudi beer and barley drink group had a considerably greater concentration of red blood cells. The quantity of red blood cells in the control group significantly decreased(P≤0.05) in comparison to the other groups. The number of white blood cells was significantly higher in the Saudi barley group compared to the control group and the Iraqi beer and drink groups, however it was significantly lower in the Iraqi barley drink group compared to the control and other groups. Compared to the control group, the Saudi beer and syrup groups, the Iraqi barley group, and the control group, respectively, platelets significantly increased and significantly decreased. Compared to the Saudi barley group and the beer group, the levels of glucose in the blood of white rats in the Iraqi barley group was much lower (P≤0.05). In comparison to the healthy control group, there was a substantial drop in all Iraqi, Saudi, and Al-Bireh groups. When compared to the control group, the cholesterol levels in the blood serum of white male rats in the Iraqi, beer, and Saudi barley groups increased significantly(P≤0.05). When compared to the Saudi barley, Iraqi barley, and control groups, the beer group exhibited a substantial rise significant increase (P≤0.05) in triglyceride concentrations in white male rats.

A-382 Evaluation of the Labcorp TrueSpinTM for Decentralized Blood Sample Centrifugation

Abstract Background The increased demand for decentralized blood sample collection presents numerous operational challenges for diagnostics providers. Sample degradation including sample hemolysis due to time, temperature, and handling between collection and laboratory analysis leads to limited test menus and unreliable results. Here we evaluate the light-weight, portable Labcorp TrueSpin™ for rapid point-of-care blood separation using commercially available microvolume blood collection tubes. The TrueSpin is a class I FDA registered device designed for layperson use. The centrifuge runs on AA batteries and separates a blood sample in five minutes. Methods Here we show results of studies evaluating sample quality and analyte stability in serum samples collected into gel microtubes and processed using the TrueSpin. Hemolysis and residual red blood cell (RBC) concentration are compared between samples separated using the TrueSpin and conventional centrifugation. Additionally, we evaluate serum-based chemistry analyte stability in both separated and unseparated samples stored for three days refrigerated and unrefrigerated. Results No significant difference was seen in hemolysis or residual RBC concentration in serum samples prepared by TrueSpin compared to the reference centrifuge method. Furthermore, we show that many common serum-based chemistry analytes have limited (<1 day) stability if uncentrifuged, but improve to ≥3-day stability following TrueSpin separation and refrigerated or room temperature storage (see Table 1). Conclusions These findings suggest that the TrueSpin is a simple and effective solution for remote sample separation and may enable broader test menus and increased test result reliability for decentralized sample collection pursuits.

Evaluation of a Compact, Portable Centrifuge for Separating Microvolume Blood Samples at the Point of Collection.

The increased demand for decentralized blood sample collection presents numerous operational challenges for diagnostics providers. Sample degradation including sample hemolysis due to time, temperature, and handling between collection and laboratory analysis leads to limited test menus and unreliable results. Here we introduce the lightweight, portable Labcorp TrueSpin™ for rapid point-of-care blood separation using commercially available microvolume blood collection tubes. The TrueSpin is a class I FDA-registered device designed for untrained users. The centrifuge runs on AA batteries and separates a blood sample in 5 minutes. Here we describe a series of studies evaluating sample quality and analyte stability in serum samples collected into gel microtubes and processed using the TrueSpin. Hemolysis, residual red blood cell concentration, sample volume, and serum-based chemistry analyte stability were evaluated. No significant difference was seen in hemolysis or residual red blood cell concentration in serum samples prepared by TrueSpin compared to the reference method. Additionally, capillary and venous blood samples separated using the TrueSpin and exposed to International Safe Transit Association 3A-simulated shipping conditions were shown to yield acceptable sample volume and quality for laboratory analysis. Finally, we show that many common serum-based chemistry analytes have limited (< 1 day) stability if uncentrifuged but improve to ≥ 3-day stability following TrueSpin separation and refrigerated or room temperature storage. These findings suggest that the TrueSpin is a simple and effective solution for remote sample separation and may enable broader test menus and increased test result reliability for decentralized sample collection pursuits.

Hematinic Potential of Olive Leaf Extract: Evidence from an In Vivo Study in Mice and a Pilot Study in Healthy Human Volunteers.

Natural resources have recently received considerable attention as complementary or alternative hematinic agents. In this regard, olive leaf extract, which is rich in bioactive phenolic compounds, has been reported to induce erythroid differentiation in human hematopoietic stem cells. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to explore the potential hematinic properties of aqueous olive leaf extract (WOL) in vivo. After 24 days of administering WOL to healthy mice orally, red blood cell (RBC), hematocrit, reticulocyte, and reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) showed a significant increase. Additionally, WOL promoted plasma iron levels and the expression of splenic ferroportin (Fpn), an iron transporter. Additionally, a single-arm pilot study involving a limited number of healthy volunteers was conducted to assess WOL's feasibility, compliance, and potential benefits. Following an 8-week intervention with WOL, RBC count and hemoglobin level were significantly increased. Notably, there were no significant changes in the safety measures related to liver and kidney functions. Furthermore, we identified oleuropein and oleuroside as the active components in WOL to induce erythroid differentiation in the K562 cell line. Altogether, our study presents evidence of the hematinic potential of WOL in the in vivo studies, opening up exciting possibilities for future applications in preventing or treating anemia.

Biomarker-based validation of a food frequency questionnaire for the assessment of omega-3 fatty acid status in a healthy Iranian population

There is no valid instrument to assess n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) intake in Iran. This study aims to develop a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) that estimates the intake of n-3 PUFA and validate it in a healthy Iranian population based on the n-3 PUFA content of red blood cells (RBCs) and a 3-day food record (FR). A healthy population (n = 221) was recruited between February and July 2021. Participants completed the new FFQ and 3-day FR to evaluate the average intake of n-3 PUFAs. We used gas chromatography to assess the n-3 PUFA content of RBCs. To validate the FFQ based on FR and biomarker as references, the correlation coefficient was calculated. According to the Bland–Altman plots, a good agreement was found between the new FFQ and FR. Moreover, absolute intake values of ALA, EPA, DPA, DHA, and total n-3 PUFAs based on FFQ were positively correlated to their respective RBC membrane levels (coefficients between 0.205 and 0.508, p < 0.005) and FR (coefficients between 0.771 and 0.827, p < 0.001). This new FFQ is a valid instrument that can be applied to estimate the n-3 PUFA status of healthy Iranian adults.

Blood components requirement in Brazilian dengue outbreaks: A retrospective analysis between 2008 to 2019

IntroductionDengue is the most fatal virus disease spread by mosquito bites and Aedes aegypti is the main transmitting agent. It is an endemic disease in the tropical and subtropical regions, currently affecting more than 100 countries. Although most patients present mild forms of the disease, a considerable proportion of individuals has severe alterations in the blood count. The aim of this study was to evaluate the consumption pattern of blood components in epidemic and non-epidemic periods and to verify if there was an impact on dengue cases and the death rate. MethodThis is a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted through the collection and analysis of data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health from 2008 to 2019 on new cases and deaths from dengue, as well as the consumption of blood components in the period mentioned by hemovigilance bulletins of the Brazilian authority. ResultsRegarding the results, no significant difference was found between the absolute amount of blood components used in years with an epidemic peak. Regarding the relative values, an important variation was shown among the distributive consumption patterns of blood components in the outbreak years. In the univariate linear regression analysis, there was statistical significance between the increase in the number of dengue cases and deaths from dengue with the increase in the consumption of red blood cell concentrates (RBP), platelet concentrates (PP), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and cryoprecipitate (Cryo) (p-value < 0.05). The increase in dengue cases was related to the increase in Cryo consumption with clinical significance (R² > 0.5), but dengue deaths were not correlated to the same. In multivariate analysis, all regression models had clinical and statistical significance. ConclusionThe data obtained in the present study demonstrate that there is a relevant relationship between the increase in cases and deaths from dengue with the blood components usage, especially PP, FFP and cryoprecipitate.

The Prevalence of Anemia in Working Women.

Anemia can be defined as a reduction in the amount of hemoglobin (Hb) in red blood cells (RBCs). It is becoming a growing socioeconomic issue. It is important to identify the causes of anemia and educate people about its symptoms. This can aid in the early identification and diagnosis of anemia, thereby preventing the disease's complications. The complications of anemia include the risk of low birth weight, prematurity, prenatal and neonatal mortality, and maternal mortality. The objective of the study is to investigate the factors contributing to anemia among working-class women employed in government or private sectors located in Karachi, Pakistan. By identifying the causes and risk factors of anemia, participants can be counseled to adopt a healthier lifestyle, a well-balanced diet, and activities that may eliminate the causes of anemia, further preventing the incidence of anemia. The objectives of the study are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART). The study was conducted from November 2019 to August 2021 despite facing COVID-19-related restrictions. The sample size fit the inclusion criteria, and the objectives were accomplished successfully with adequate resources. The cross-sectional study was conducted after receiving clearance from institutions and consent from participants. A total of 180 participants provided consent after receiving a thorough explanation of the study, and they had the right to refuse to participate. In respect of confidentiality, the participants were not required to provide their names, as they were not included in our data analysis. The inclusion criteria included women of the working class, aged 18-45 years, working a minimum of four to five hours per week, and employed in government or private sectors located in Karachi, Pakistan. The exclusion criteria included women with bleeding or hematological disorders, a history of surgery in the last 12 months, pregnancy, or systemic disease. Data collection was divided into two sections: section one (questionnaire) and section two (investigations). The questionnaire was given to each participant via Google Forms and was filled out before section two of data collection, which included blood tests via a finger prick to measure hemoglobin with a Veri-Q Multi Meter hemoglobin monitoring system (manufactured by Q-line BIOTECH, New Delhi, India). The mean Hb was 11.15 ± 1.29 mg/dl (n = 180). The study revealed that 58.3% of the participants had a normal hemoglobin concentration according to the WHO anemia classification, while 41.7% were anemic. Overall, the prevalence of anemia was 41.7%, and the majority (56%) of the participants had mild anemia. The majority of the participants had mild anemia. Education on anemia and its symptoms, eating habits, occupational status, and stress-related factors can affect the hemoglobin concentration in RBCs. A diet low in meat, leafy vegetables, and fruit leads to anemia. Despite knowledge of anemia and its symptoms, non-medical professionals, especially young adults, had a higher prevalence of anemia than medical professionals, although the difference was minor.

Supplementation of an organic mineral source modulated metabolic profile, insulin sensitivity, and oxidative stress in dairy calves with different birth body weights

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of partial replacement of inorganic minerals (IM) with advanced chelated minerals (ACMS) in the starter diets of calves of different birth body weights (BBW) on metabolic indices and glucose tolerance test. Fifty-two Holstein calves were assigned to one of 4 treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two mineral sources (IM or ACMS) and two BBW (low or normal birth weight; LBW or NBW). Calves were weaned on day 56 and remained in the study until day 71 of the study. Blood samples for blood metabolite analysis were collected from the jugular vein on days 30, 60, and 70 of the study, and for hematology on days 36, 56, and 70. The results showed that the interaction of starter mineral sources (MS) and BBW affected the overall plasma concentration of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), with the highest value being obtained during treatment with LBW-ACMS. In addition, an interaction between MS and BBW was observed in plasma insulin concentrations, with LBW-IM calves having the lowest concentrations compared to the other treatments. Plasma albumin concentrations were lower in LBW calves than in NBW calves. In addition, NBW calves had greater plasma concentrations of glucose (day 60), insulin (day 30), BHB (day 30), and malondialdehyde (MDA; day 60 and the overall period) than LBW calves, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) tended to reverse at day 70. The ACMS starter increased plasma glucose concentration at day 30 and tended to increase plasma BHB concentration in the overall period. In addition, plasma MDA concentrations were lower in calves receiving ACMS than in calves receiving IM during the overall period. NBW calves tended to have more eosinophils (day 70), basophils (day 36), and erythrocytes (RBC, day 56, and the overall period) in plasma than LBW calves. Regardless of BBW, feeding ACMS starter increased white blood cells (WBC), neutrophils, and eosinophils at day 70 and also tended to increase neutrophils during the overall period compared with the IM groups. Red blood cell concentrations were greater in calves fed ACMS than in calves fed IM during the overall period. Glucose tolerance test showed that basal glucose concentration and clearance rate (CR) of glucose tended to be lower and higher, respectively, in calves fed ACMS than in calves fed IM. ACMS supplementation increased basal concentrations and also tended to increase maximum insulin concentrations compared with IM supplementation. In addition, calves receiving ACMS starter had greater plasma insulin area under the curve (AUC) and CR compared with calves receiving IM. Feeding ACMS tended to increase the ratio CR of insulin to CR of glucose and increased the AUC of insulin to AUC of glucose compared with feeding IM. Overall, feeding ACMS resulted in a decrease in plasma MDA concentration and an increase in neutrophil concentration, suggesting that ACMS may improve immune function in these calves. A potential insulinotropic effect was noted with ACMS feeding, which was accompanied by an improvement in glucose control rate. This is likely due to higher bioavailability of chelated minerals such as Zn and should be further investigated.

Massive Transfusion Increases Serum Magnesium Concentration.

(1) Background: The massive transfusion of packed red blood cells (RBCs) is a lifesaving procedure, but it is associated with complications, e.g., dysmagnesemia. Since magnesium is an intracellular ion, the transfused RBCs can significantly influence the magnesium concentration in the recipient's blood. (2) Methods: A retrospective study was performed among 49 patients hospitalized in the Central Clinical Hospital of the Medical University of Warsaw who received a massive blood transfusion (≥4 units/h). Data on laboratory results and patient history were collected from the hospital database. The intracellular RBCs magnesium concentration was measured in 231 samples using the colorimetric method. (3) Results: There were statistically significant changes in the mean serum magnesium concentration preoperatively and 24 h postoperatively (0.87 ± 0.13 vs. 1.03 ± 0.14, p < 0.00001) and 48 h postoperatively (0.87 ± 0.13 vs. 1.06 ± 0.15, p < 0.00001). Patients who died had significantly higher serum magnesium concentrations (p < 0.05). The median intracellular magnesium concentration in RBCs was 0.91 (0.55-1.8) mmol/L, which is below the reference values of 1.65-2.65 mmol/L. (4) Conclusions: Transfused RBCs significantly increased the serum magnesium concentration 24 h and 48 h postoperatively. It could be a result of mild hemolysis, as the median intracellular magnesium concentration in RBCs was below the reference values.

Methotrexate Polyglutamates Exposure - Response Modeling in a Large Cohort of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Starting Methotrexate.

Methotrexate polyglutamates (MTX-PG) concentrations in red blood cells (RBCs) have been suggested as a biomarker of response in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) receiving low-dose MTX therapy. We investigated the association and interpatient variability between RBC-MTX-PG3-5 -exposure and response in patients with RA starting MTX. Data of three prospective cohorts were available. The relationship between exposure and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) was analyzed using a population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model. Relevant covariates were tested using full covariate modeling and backward elimination. From 395 patients, 3,401 MTX-PG concentrations and 1,337 DAS28 measurements were available between 0 and 300 days after MTX treatment onset. The developed model adequately described the time course of MTX-PG3-5 and DAS28. The median MTX-PG3-5 level at month 1 was 30.9 nmol/L (interquartile range (IQR): 23.6-43.7; n = 41) and at month 3: 69.3 nmol/L (IQR: 17.9-41.2; n = 351). Clearance of MTX-PG3-5 from RBCs was 28% lower (95% confidence interval (CI): 23.6-32.8%) in a woman and 10% lower (95% CI: 7.7-12.4%) in a 65-year-old compared with a 35-year-old patient. MTX-PG3-5 concentrations associated with DAS28: half-maximal effective concentration (EC50 ) was 9.14 nmol/L (95% CI: 4.2 nmol/L-14.1 nmol/L). EF at 80% (EC80 ) above 47 nmol/L was regarded as the optimal response. Independent of the MTX-PG 3-5 - response association, co-administration of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and corticosteroids improved response (additive effect on maximum effect (Emax )), whereas smoking, high body mass index and low albumin decreased Emax . In patients with RA starting MTX, RBC-MTX-PG3-5 was associated with clinical response. A dose increase is suggested when MTX-PG3-5 at month 1 is below 9.15 nmol/L, continued with the same dose when the concentration is above 47 nmol/L, and consider other treatment options above 78 nmol/L from 3months onwards.

The Effect of Environmental Disasters on Endocrine Status, Hematology Parameters, Body Composition, and Physical Performance in Young Soccer Players: A Case Study of the Aral Sea Region.

The Aral Sea region (Uzbekistan) is infamous because of the ecological disaster characterized by the disappearance of the Aral Sea due to excessive uncontrolled water intake for agriculture needs. A new desert occurrence, soil and climate aridization led to pesticide and toxic metals environment pollution. The impact of environmental conditions in some areas of Uzbekistan on the health of soccer players is not as noticeable as, for example, the effectiveness of training, so it is not widely discussed in scientific papers. The aim of the present study was to study the features of endocrine status, hematology parameters (e.g., red blood cells (RBC) and hemoglobin (Hb)), and their influence on body composition and physical fitness performance in local young soccer players of the Aral Sea region as the territory of ecological disaster. The study involved 60 male soccer players aged from 18 to 22 years. Participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group (EG), which consisted of 30 soccer players living on the territory of the Aral ecological disaster region, and the control group (CG), which included 30 soccer players, natives of the ecologically favorable region of Uzbekistan. All volunteers had anthropometric measurements, concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2), cortisol (C), RBC, and Hb count. Moreover, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIRT1) and professional skills tests such as dribbling shuttle test (DSt) and goal accuracy test (GAt) were assessed. When comparing the CG group to the EG group, it was observed that the EG group exhibited statistically significantly reduced levels of TT and E2 (p < 0.05). No significant statistical difference was observed between the two groups in terms of IGF-1 and C (p > 0.05). Regarding hematological parameters, Hb, Ht, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were found to be significantly lower in the EG compared with the CG (p < 0.05). Moreover, the distance covered in the YYIR1 test was found to be significantly lower in soccer players within the EG compared with the CG (p < 0.05). Additionally, it was determined that there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of DSt and GAt values (p > 0.05). Lastly, significant differences were observed between the EG and CG in terms of anthropometric characteristics (diameters, skinfold, and somatotype profile) (p < 0.05). The present study showed that the changes in evaluated characteristics might result from the complex influence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, the content of which is high in the environment of the Aral Sea region. The results obtained may help monitor the health of athletes living in an environmentally unfriendly environment.

Workload and sex effects in comprehensive assessment of cutaneous microcirculation.

Workload and sex-related differences have been proposed as factors of importance when evaluating the microcirculation. Simultaneous assessments with diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) enable a comprehensive evaluation of the microcirculation. The aim of the study was to compare the response between sexes in the microcirculatory parameters red blood cell (RBC) tissue fraction, RBC oxygen saturation, average vessel diameter, and speed-resolved perfusion during baseline, cycling, and recovery, respectively. In 24 healthy participants (aged 20 to 30years, 12 females), cutaneous microcirculation was assessed by LDF and DRS at baseline, during a workload generated by cycling at 75 to 80% of maximal age-predicted heart rate, and recovery, respectively. Females had significantly lower RBC tissue fraction and total perfusion in forearm skin microcirculation at all phases (baseline, workload, and recovery). All microvascular parameters increased significantly during cycling, most evident in RBC oxygen saturation (34% increase on average) and perfusion (9-fold increase in total perfusion). For perfusion, the highest speeds (>10mm/s) increased by a factor of 31, whereas the lowest speeds (<1mm/s) increased by a factor of 2. Compared to a resting state, all studied microcirculation measures increased during cycling. For perfusion, this was mainly due to increased speed, and only to a minor extent due to increased RBC tissue fraction. Skin microcirculatory differences between sexes were seen in RBC concentration and total perfusion.

Therapeutic effects of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) seed powder against reproductive toxicity induced by Mancozeb (herbicide) in female rabbits

Pesticides like Mancozeb are being increasingly indispensable in the control of crop pests. Unfortunately, they have been implicated in genotoxicity due to their ubiquity, toxicological properties, persistence and presence in the food chain. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of powdered avocado seed on reproductive parameters in the management of oxidative stress in female rabbits caused by the herbicide Mancozeb. Twenty-eight female rabbits aged 7–8 months and weighing between 2780.4 g and 3143.7 g were randomly divided into four groups of seven rabbits each. Each group received for 90 consecutive days distilled water or Mancozeb associated or not with avocado seed powder orally as follows: T1: 10 ml distilled water; T2, T3 and T4: 100 mg/kg bw Mancozeb. This was followed by oral administration of 250, 500, and 0 mg/kg of avocado seed powder for T2, T3, and T4, respectively. Water and feed were distributed ad libitum. Collected data concerned growth, carcass and reproductive performances, hematological and biochemistry characteristics. Results demonstrated that pregnant and lactating female rabbits administered Mancozeb exhibited a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in food intake, body weight, and body weight gain. Female rabbits exposed to Mancozeb had a decrease in litter size and weight from birth to weaning, as well as in weaning body weight and weight increase, fertility and prolificacy rate, milk yield, and daily milk efficiency. However, administration of avocado seed powder reversed (P < 0.05) the trends in these parameters in a dose-dependent manner. The increase in relative weight of the kidney and liver, concentrations of urea, creatinine, alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, mean cell volume, white blood cells, and lymphocytes were all associated with increased Mancozeb rates (P < 0.05). On the contrary, administration of the Mancozeb caused decrease in hemoglobin (Hb), Red blood Cell (RBC) and protein content. Administration of avocado seed powder significantly (P < 0.05) ameliorated the Mancozeb effects on these parameters. Applying 500 mg/kg b.w Avocado seed powder may be suggested as an alternative therapy for reproductive defects induced by Mancozeb in female rabbits.

Quality assessment of red blood cell concentrates from blood donors at the extremes of the age spectrum: The BEST collaborative study.

Blood donors at the extremes of the age spectrum (16-19 years vs. ≥75 years) are characterized by increased risks of iron deficiency and anemia, and are often underrepresented in studies evaluating the effects of donor characteristics on red blood cells (RBC) transfusion effectiveness. The aim of this study was to conduct quality assessments of RBC concentrates from these unique age groups. We characterized 150 leukocyte-reduced (LR)-RBCs units from 75 teenage donors, who were matched by sex, and ethnicity with 75 older donors. LR-RBC units were manufactured at three large blood collection centers in the USA and Canada. Quality assessments included storage hemolysis, osmotic hemolysis, oxidative hemolysis, osmotic gradient ektacytometry, hematological indices, and RBC bioactivity. RBC concentrates from teenage donors had smaller (9%) mean corpuscular volume and higher (5%) RBC concentration compared with older donors counterparts. Stored RBCs from teenage donors exhibited increased susceptibility to oxidative hemolysis (>2-fold) compared with RBCs from older donors. This was observed at all testing centers independent of sex, storage duration, or the type of additive solution. RBCs from teenage male donors had increased cytoplasmatic viscosity and lower hydration compared with older donor RBCs. Evaluations of RBC supernatant bioactivity suggested that donor age was not associated with altered expression of inflammatory markers (CD31, CD54, and IL-6) on endothelial cells. The reported findings are likely intrinsic to RBCs and reflect age-specific changes in RBC antioxidant capacity and physical characteristics that may impact RBC survival during cold storage and after transfusion.

Computational fluid dynamics validated by micro particle image velocimetry to estimate the risk of hemolysis in arteries with atherosclerotic lesions

We aimed to verify the relationship between blood vessel shape and hemolysis risk by using a blood rheological model that reflects the physiological processes related to blood flow. Blood rheology depends on many factors including the red blood cell concentration and local shear stress, which affect the hemolysis process. We introduced a rheology model suitable for modeling hemolysis flows observed in arteries with atherosclerotic lesions in vivo based on the population balance. The model predicts the concentration of single red blood cells and the concentration and size of red blood cell agglomerates, which affect blood rheology and hemolysis. Atherosclerotic lesion geometries were obtained based on image reconstructions from tomographic projections. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation results were compared with particle image velocimetry measurements of the geometries printed with a 3D printer. Based on the CFD simulation data, a correlation function was established by combining the essential parameters of vessel shape and flow rate with the maximum shear stress, which governs the hemolysis. The chemical engineering methodology was successfully applied to the analysis of biological systems. In future, the model can be implemented in image reconstruction software using tomographic projections to quickly analyze hemolysis risk in medical practice.

Reduction of EpCAM-Positive Cells from a Cell Salvage Product Is Achieved by Leucocyte Depletion Filters Alone.

Intraoperative cell salvage reduces the need for allogeneic blood transfusion in complex cancer surgery, but concerns about the possibility of it re-infusing cancer cells have hindered its application in oncology. We monitored the presence of cancer cells on patient-salvaged blood by means of flow cytometry; next, we simulated cell salvage, followed by leucodepletion and irradiation on blood contaminated with a known amount of EpCAM-expressing cancer cells, assessing also residual cancer cell proliferation as well as the quality of salvaged red blood cell concentrates (RBCs). We observed a significant reduction of EpCAM-positive cells in both cancer patients and contaminated blood, which was comparable to the negative control after leucodepletion. The washing, leucodepletion and leucodepletion plus irradiation steps of cell salvage were shown to preserve the quality of RBCs in terms of haemolysis, membrane integrity and osmotic resistance. Finally, cancer cells isolated from salvaged blood lose their ability to proliferate. Our results confirm that cell salvage does not concentrate proliferating cancer cells, and that leucodepletion allows for the reduction of residual nucleated cells, making irradiation unnecessary. Our study gathers pieces of evidence on the feasibility of this procedure in complex cancer surgery. Nevertheless, it highlights the necessity of finding a definitive consensus through prospective trials.

Folate concentrations and serum perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance concentrations in adolescents and adults in the USA (National Health and Nutrition Examination Study 2003–16): an observational study

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of highly fluorinated aliphatic compounds, which are widely used in commercial applications, including food packaging, textiles, and non-stick cookware. Folate might counteract the effects of environmental chemical exposures. We aimed to explore the relationship between blood folate biomarker concentrations and PFAS concentrations. This observational study pooled cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003 to 2016 cycles. NHANES is a population-based national survey that measures the health and nutritional status of the US general population every 2 years by means of questionnaires, physical examination, and biospecimen collection. Folate concentrations in red blood cells and in serum, and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) concentrations in serum were examined. We used multivariable regression models to assess the percentage change in serum PFAS concentrations in relation to changes in folate biomarker concentrations. We additionally used models with restricted cubic splines to investigate the shape of these associations. This study included 2802 adolescents and 9159 adults who had complete data on PFAS concentrations, folate biomarkers, and covariates, were not pregnant, and had never had a cancer diagnosis at the time of the survey. The mean age was 15·4 years (SD 2·3) for adolescents and 45·5 years (17·5) for adults. The proportion of male participants was slightly higher in adolescents (1508 [54%] of 2802 participants) than in adults (3940 [49%] of 9159 participants). We found negative associations between red blood cell folate concentrations and serum concentrations of PFOS (percentage change for a 2·7 fold-increase in folate level -24·36%, 95% CI -33·21 to -14·34) and PFNA (-13·00%, -21·87 to -3·12) in adolescents, and PFOA (-12·45%, -17·28 to -7·35), PFOS (-25·30%, -29·67 to -20·65), PFNA (-21·65%, -26·19 to -16·82), and PFHxS (-11·70%, -17·32 to 5·70) in adults. Associations for serum folate concentrations and PFAS were in line with those found for red blood cell folate levels, although the magnitude of the effects was lower. Restricted cubic spline models suggested linearity of the observed associations, particularly for associations in adults. In this large-scale, nationally representative study, we found consistent inverse associations for most examined serum PFAS compounds in relation to folate concentrations measured in either red blood cells or serum among both adolescents and adults. These findings are supported by mechanistic in-vitro studies that show the potential of PFAS to compete with folate for several transporters implicated in PFAS toxicokinetics. If confirmed in experimental settings, these findings could have important implications for interventions to reduce the accumulated PFAS body burden and mitigate the related adverse health effects. United States National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.

Mercury Exposure in Birds of Prey from Norway: Relation to Stable Carbon and Nitrogen Isotope Signatures in Body Feathers

Mercury (Hg) and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios were analysed in body feathers from nestlings of white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) (WTE; n = 13) and Northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) (NG; n = 8) and in red blood cells (RBC) from NG (n = 11) from Norway. According to linear mixed model, species factor was significant in explaining the Hg concentration in feathers (LMM; p < 0.001, estimate (WTE) = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.26, 3.76), with concentrations higher in WTE (3.01 ± 1.34 µg g−1 dry weight) than in NG (0.51 ± 0.34 µg g−1 dry weight). This difference and the isotopic patterns for each species, likely reflect their diet, as WTE predominantly feed on a marine and higher trophic-chain diet compared to the terrestrial NG. In addition, Hg concentrations in RBCs of NG nestlings were positively correlated with feather Hg concentrations (Rho = 0.77, p = 0.03), supporting the potential usefulness of nestling body feathers to biomonitor and estimate Hg exposure. Hg levels in both species were generally below the commonly applied toxicity threshold of 5 µg g−1 in feathers, although exceeded in two WTE (6.08 and 5.19 µg g−1 dry weight).

Evaluation of health status in broilers fed with a mixture of Dayak onion extract and Lactobacillus acidophilus.

The feeding effects of DoLa (a combination of Dayak onion extract and probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus) on hematological indices and lymphoid organs as indicators of broiler health status were evaluated in the present study. 192 1-day-old unsexed broilers of the CP 707 strain with a body weight of 46.43 ± 1.65 gm were randomly divided into 4 dietary treatments with 6 replications. The dietary treatments applied were basal diet (BD) as a control with a code of DoLa0, BD + 0.1% DoLa (DoLa1), BD + 0.2% DoLa (DoLa2), and BD + 0.3% DoLa (DoLa3). The parameters monitored included hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), heterophile (H), lymphocyte (L), white blood cell (WBC), heterophile-lymphocyte (H/L) ratio, the lymphoid organs (bursa Fabricius, spleen, and thymus) relative weight, as well as carcass weight. The results indicated a significant improvement in WBC, L, and carcass weight (p < 0.05) as the feeding level of DoLa increased while the H and H/L ratio decreased. However, the dietary inclusion of DoLa did not affect the lymphoid organs' relative weight, RBC, and Hb concentrations. The mixture at 0.3% significantly improved health status through the indicators of hematological indices, lymphoid organs, and carcass weight of broilers.

Hematology and serum biochemistry variables in apparently normal Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx).

Hematology and serum biochemical analyses are integral parts of the clinical evaluation of sick animals. This is especially true regarding the clinical care of wildlife species, where clinical signs and historical data relating to the particular illness are often not available. Therefore, this study was designed to report various hematology and serum biochemistry parameters in Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx). Various hematology and serum biochemistry parameters were determined in 49 Arabian oryx of various ages and sexes. Hematology parameters included total red blood cells (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), MCH concentration, and total leukocyte count (white blood cell) using an automated hematology analyzer. Serum biochemistry variables included glucose (Trinder method), total protein (biuret method), albumin using the Bromcresol Green (BCG) method, and blood urea nitrogen (colorimetric method). In addition, serum electrolyte concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus were determined using colorimetric methods. There was a significant difference in RBC count, PCV, and serum glucose concentration between adult and young Arabian oryx. The RBC count was significantly higher in males than in females, whereas the serum glucose concentration was significantly higher in females. Results of this study showed significant differences in RBC, PCV, and serum glucose concentration between apparently normal young and Adult Arabian oryx. Similar differences were also detected between normal males and females. Knowledge of these data could prove vital in the clinical evaluation of the health status of this wildlife species.