Erythrocyte Formation Research Articles

Evaluation of Low-Dose Effects and Non-Monotonous Dose Response of Butyl p-hydroxybenzoate, or Butylparaben on Female Wistar Rats

Butylparaben (BP) is an extensively used synthetic preservative that has been testified as an endocrine disruptor and speculated to be toxic for the body all together. The present study evaluated the possible noxious impact of BP at minimum doses, i.e., 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg BW/day, on female Wistar rats following consecutive subcutaneous exposure for 7 and 21 days. The results of the genotoxic study exhibited that BP at a dose of 10 mg/kg BW/day significantly (p ˂ 0.05) induced micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) formation in bone marrow of rats, both in short (7.3 ± 0.87 MNPCEs/1000 PCEs) and long-term exposures (6.6 ± 0.33 MNPCEs/1000 PCEs), which was in line with the results obtained for 17β-estradiol (E2)-treated reference control rats. Levels of hepatic toxicity marker enzymes, i.e., aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), were not altered substantially in any of the study durations, but the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level increased significantly (p ˂ 0.05) at all BP doses, including E2. Variations in the serum HDL as well as cholesterol levels were found to be non-monotonous with respect to the applied BP doses. However, contrasting specifics were observed for triglycerides in terms of the study durations. Conclusively, the current study established that BP, even at low doses, could evidently disturb the circulating lipid content, hepatic enzyme levels, and even cause genotoxicity, and also pointed toward its non-monotonous dose response.

Platelet and red cell responses to three North American pit vipers

We investigated the hemotoxic effects of three North American pit vipers in healthy human donor blood. Using experiments focusing on platelet and red blood cell activity, we found differential effects of these venoms on these cellular components. Platelet aggregation was most induced by C. adamanteus. Platelet activation was highest with C. atrox. Red blood cells had calcium expression and erythrocyte formation most induced by C. adamanteus and A. piscivorus. These results demonstrate the complex interplay of individual cellular effects with clinical presentations seen in envenomings from these species.

Establishment of health food safety evaluation method-In vivo genotoxicity evaluation by micronucleus assay

In recent years, various factors such as shifts in health consciousness, changes in lifestyle habits, increased focus on dietary intake, the promotion of alternative medical concepts, and advancements in life sciences and technology have propelled the robust growth of the health food industry. An increasing number of reports suggest that "functional foods," containing beneficial functional components, may enhance short-term well-being and are increasingly regarded as healthful. Building upon these findings, this study aims to enhance the production capacity of high-value agricultural products. However, for quality assurance, toxicity assessment of functional foods is imperative. There is a growing necessity to employ in vivo genotoxicity assays to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of these products. In this study, we tried to establish another in vivo genotoxicity evaluation platform via acridine orange induction. According to all results in this study, during the experiment, there were no statistically significant differences in BW between the negative control group and the normal control group (p > 0.05). Moreover, the clinical observations of the experimental mice showed that all mice survived until the end of the experiment, and no abnormal clinical symptoms were observed. The mouse’s food consumption in each group were monitored during the experiments. The food consumption of mice was recorded daily after the experiment. During the experiments, there were no significant difference between two groups on the food consumption. The percentage of RETs/1,000 RBCs in the negative control group was significantly decrease than the normal control group (p < 0.001). RETs/1,000 RBCs (‰) in ICR mice (n = 5/group) in the negative control group and the normal control group at 48th and 72th hours-experiment were respectively 18 ± 4.6 / 45.6 ± 4.0 (48th hours-experiment) and 19 ± 4.8 / 47.6 ± 4.8 (72th hours-experiment). The percentage of Mn-RETs/1,000 RETs in the negative control group was significantly increase than the normal control group (p < 0.001). Mn-RETs/1,000 RETs (‰) in ICR mice (n = 5/group) in the negative control group and the normal control group were 10.6 ± 2.1 / 0.4 ± 0.5 and 8.2 ± 1.8 / 0.4 ± 0.5, respectively. Taken all results of RET/RBCs (‰) and MN-RET/RETs (‰) together, the genotoxicity in the negative control group has been successfully induced. In light of these requirements, we propose utilizing the mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus assay to detect damage induced by test substances to erythroblast chromosomes. This study endeavors to establish a sensitive and stable method for quantifying micronuclei formation in erythrocytes in vivo. The resulting data will facilitate the evaluation of potential toxicity associated with agricultural functional products in the future.

EDUKASI GIZI DAN MINUMAN KACANG HIJAU SEBAGAI PREVENTIF ANEMIA DALAM KEHAMILAN

In developing countries, the most common pregnancy complication in pregnant women is anemia. The prevalence of anemia in pregnancy in Indonesia is still quite high, including in the East Java region. The problem of pregnant women at the Polindes Kaliwining in the Puskesmas Rambipuji Jember is that anemia status is not detected in each trimester of pregnancy. Mung beans contain iron which helps the formation of erythrocytes to increase hemoglobin levels. This community service aims to provide nutritional education and the use of mung beans in preventing anemia in pregnancy. The implementation of this service uses an outreach method using a video media approach. Apart from that, blood hemoglobin levels are also checked in pregnant women as an early detection of anemia. Iron supplementation is given in the form of blood supplement tablets to pregnant women. Furthermore, giving mung beans drinks as a complement to iron supplementation to prevent anemia in pregnancy. The educational approach via video has proven effective in increasing pregnant women's knowledge by 25% regarding anemia and the benefits of mung beans. Based on the results of examinations during this service activity, blood hemoglobin levels showed that 2 respondents experienced anemia in the third trimester of pregnancy. Regular Hb checks are very important during pregnancy. The combination of consuming blood supplement tablets and mung beans can reduce the incidence of anemia in pregnancy.

Determination of micronuclei frequency in Danio rerio for assessing genotoxicity induced by propineb

The aim of this study was to investigate the genotoxic effect of Propineb fungicide at different concentrations (0.167, 0.335 and 0.670 mg L−1) and different treatment times (24, 48, 72 and 96 h) on Danio rerio. At the end of the treatment periods, blood was collected from the fish with a heparin injector; smear preparations were prepared, fixed and stained. In the prepared preparations, the numbers of cells with MN and erythrocyte nucleus abnormalities were examined. It was found that propineb increased micronucleus formation at all treatment times and concentrations and induced the formation of erythrocytes with morphological abnormal nuclei such as segmented, kidney-shaped, notched, vacuolated nuclei and binucleated. The increase in micronucleus formation and the number of erythrocytes with abnormal nuclei were found to be concentration and treatment time-dependent. In conclusion, in this study, Danio rerio erythrocytes were used to evaluate the genotoxic effects of propineb fungicide on aquatic organisms, which have an important place in environmental risk assessment criteria. Since fungicides used in agricultural control such as propineb may have the potential to be genotoxic to aquatic organisms, the results of toxicity tests should be taken into consideration in the selection and use of concentrations of these chemicals.

The effectiveness of feeding choline in a "protected" form in the post-dairy period of calf rearing

The physiological and productive effect of the developed "protected" form of choline in calves' diets after removing them from milk drinking was studied. Heifers analogs by breed, live weight at the age of three months were divided into 2 groups (n = 10), and received rations by group loose housing system. The animals of the experimental group were daily given minigranules of "protected" choline at the rate of 50 mg/ kg of live weight of the active substance mixed with feed for 90 days, with the study of the aftereffect. For 90 days of feeding the supplement, the additional increase in live weight of animals in the control group was 67.1±0.5 kg, in the experimental group – 77.5±1.2 kg, with an average daily increase in live weight of 745.5±0.01g versus 861.1±0.40 g (p ≤0.05), for 30 days of aftereffect, respectively, 733.3±0.03g versus 836.7±0.09 g. The acceleration of the growth of heifers is interconnected with the improvement of the direction of metabolic processes in their body due to the use of an additive. In the blood serum taken at the end of the experiment, there was noted a higher level of total protein – by 6.3 % (p <0.05); albumins by 8.0 % (p <0.05); creatine – by 7.4 % (p <0.05); glucose (by 21.2 %) (p <0.05); triglycerides by 28.0 % (p < 0.05); cholesterol by 10.2 % (p < 0.05); alkaline phosphatase by 7.6 %, at lower urea levels, by 22.8 % (p < 0.05), and bilirubin by 23.8 % (p < 0.05). According to hematological indicators, higher levels of erythrocyte formation were revealed – by 8.0 % (p<0.05); hemoglobin by 5.2 %; hematocrit index (by 19.5 %), with a lower (by 13.4 %) white blood cell level. A positive effect on the immune status of the organism of growing animals was also found, with a positive difference in the bactericidal activity of blood serum by 4.1 %, a higher level of lysozyme (by 50.0 %) (p≤0.05), phagocytic activity by 1.0 absolute%, phagocytic index by 14.5 %, phagocytic number by 17.5 %. The data obtained prove the relevance of giving choline in “protected” form to growing ruminants.

Aggregation of human plasma and of human blood induced in vitro by pegfilgrastim originator formulation buffer and pegfilgrastim products

PEGylated recombinant human granulocyte colony stimulating factor (pegfilgrastim) is used clinically to reduce the incidence and duration of severe neutropenia in patients who have received chemotherapy treatment. Pegfilgrastim products are administered by subcutaneous injection. We herein report that solutions of pegfilgrastim originator product Neulasta®, of a biosimilar product candidate, and also of the pegfilgrastim originator formulation buffer, induced aggregate formation when mixed in vitro with human plasma, and formation of large membranous aggregated structures when mixed with human blood. Human donor variability in the plasma aggregation induced by pegfilgrastim products was observed. In all donors less aggregation occurred in plasma mixtures with the biosimilar pegfilgrastim product candidate compared to the originator products. Instantaneous aggregation of erythrocytes and formation of large membranous aggregated structures of erythrocytes occurred in mixtures of human blood with pegfilgrastim buffer or pegfilgrastim products. The formation of the large membranous aggregated structures likely involved fusion of erythrocyte membranes; erythrocyte membrane fusion events were observed. Pegfilgrastim proteins in the products accelerated the formation of irreversible erythrocyte aggregated structures. Pegfilgrastim originator formulation buffer (10 mM Na-acetate pH 4.0, 274 mM sorbitol, 0.004 % polysorbate 20) was identified as the main driver of the plasma and erythrocyte aggregation. Lipoprotein aggregation at low pH in the presence of sorbitol and erythrocyte membrane fusion induced by the lipoprotein aggregates, are proposed as the main mechanisms for the formation of plasma and blood aggregates. Such aggregation phenomena may also occur during pegfilgrastim clinical use and may be related to known side effects and individual variability in the efficacy of pegfilgrastim therapy.

Physicochemical, Biochemical and Genotoxic Profile of Subchronic Exposure of Wister Rats to Treated Crude Oil Exploration Water

Background: Crude oil exploration water is the major waste product generated from petroleum exploration and production activities and is known to be a complex composition of numerous hazardous chemicals, including large quantities of heavy metals, inorganic, and organic substances and naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs).
 Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the physicochemical, biochemical and genotoxic profile of subchronic exposure of Wister rats to treated crude oil exploration water (TCOEW).
 Materials and Methods: Fifty rats were randomly assigned to five treatment groups, with ten rats per group, and treated with five concentrations (1%, 5%, 10% and 20%) of TCOEW. Each TCOEW concentration was administered for 90 days ad-libitum as normal drinking water to each group, while the control group was given tap water. Blood, liver, kidney, thymus, spleen and femoral bone of the animals were collected at the end of exposure for biochemical and histological assessments. The pH, conductivity, and turbidity were carried out on-site, while other physicochemical parameters were determined using standard laboratory methods. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α 0.05.
 Results: Treated crude oil exploration water caused a significant (p < 0.05) increase in RBC, PCV and Hb while other hematological and biochemical parameters showed no difference. Also, TCOEW cause a significant increase in polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs) in genotoxicity test and no major lesion were seen in the histopathology studies. Treated Crude Oil Exploration Water does not comply with FEPA standards of produced water due to high conductivity, salinity and total dissolved solid of the sample. The marked increase in micronuclei polychromatic erythrocyte formation (MNPCE) showed that TCOEW might be genotoxic and this could be responsible for the significant increase RBC, parked cell volume (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb) observed.
 Conclusion: Although TCOEW does not totally meet FEPA standard for effluent discharge, it has mild genotoxic effect.

Heavy Metals in the Striped Snakehead Murrel Channa striata and Sediments of Lake Mainit Philippines with Notes on Piscine Micronuclei Occurrence

Lake Mainit is the deepest lake in the Philippines, with sporadic documentation of various types of aquatic pollution. This paper reports the heavy metal content in the muscles of the striped snakehead murell Channa striata and bottom sediments from five stations across Lake Mainit using quadrupole-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (Q-ICP-MS). The micronuclei (MN) formation in erythrocytes of C. striata was also assessed for potential genotoxicity. The relative order of the average concentrations of heavy metals in C. striata samples across all stations is Zn>Cu>Cr>Ni>As>Pb>Cd. As per international safety standards, fish muscle samples across all stations have exceeded the permissible limits of Cu, Ni, and Zn, which has implications for health risks in humans consuming this important fish commodity. The relative order of the concentrations of heavy metals in sediments is Cr>Ni>Cu>Zn>As>Pb>Cd, where Cr, Ni, Cu, Pb, and Zn exceeded safety standards. The MN assay revealed that 98% of the erythrocytes assessed (N=147,000 RBCs) have normal cell morphology. Of the 2% of erythrocytic nuclear alterations (ENAs), 55% are found to be fragmented-apoptotic cells, while 31% are elongated or reshaped. The MNs in C. striata are relatively minimal at 2%. While the MN assay implies that C. striata from Lake Mainit are not at risk for potential genotoxic injury, the present study calls for seasonal monitoring for heavy metals in sediments and other fishery resources in Lake Mainit.

Molecular regulatory mechanisms of erythropoiesis and related diseases.

The metabolism of cells and blood circulation allow for the constant production and destruction of red blood cells. Erythrocyte formation allows red blood cells to regenerate, which is crucial for maintaining the equilibrium of the organism. Erythrocyte formation is a multi-step, intricate process with distinct structural and functional characteristics at each stage. Erythropoiesis is regulated by a number of signaling pathways; malfunctional regulatory mechanisms may result in disease and aberrant erythropoiesis. Therefore, this article focuses on a review of the erythroid formation process, related signaling pathways, and red blood cell lineage diseases.

Eulophia gracilis pseudobulb extract mitigates cyclophosphamide-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress on murine hepatic tissue

The reports over the years on chemotherapeutic regimen involving cyclophosphamide (CYP), a bifunctional alkylating agent, demonstrated hepatotoxic side effect. Eulophia gracilis (EG) is a medicinal plant with folkloric utility in the treatment of liver damage and blood related diseases. However, there is a knowledge gap on the impact of E. gracilis effectiveness on CYP-associated hepatic toxicity in the literature. We investigated on potency of aqueous methanolic extract of E. gracilis (AMEG) and CYP-mediated hepatic toxicity in rats. Experimental rats were administered with CYP (2 mg/kg) or co-treated with AMEG (200 or 400 mg/kg) for 7 days consecutively. The result showed that co-treatment with AMEG significantly reduces alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma glutamyl transferase and lactate dehydrogenase activities compared to the CYP group. Moreover, AMEG abated CYP-induced decreases in superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes in the liver homogenate. AMEG alleviated CYP-facilitated surges of hepatic concentration of advanced oxidized protein product (AOPPs) and lipid peroxidation in rats. Additionally, AMEG reduced pathological lesions in the liver of co-treated rats and elicited anti-genotoxic effect by mitigating CYP-mediated increases of frequency of formation of polychromatic erythrocyte in the bone marrow and hepatic percentage DNA fragmentation in CYP-exposed rats. Overall, AMEG protective effect improved liver dysfunction occasioned by CYP-mediated toxicities in rats by abating oxidative stress and alleviating genotoxic responses.

Differentiation therapy for murine myelofibrosis model with MLN8237 loaded low-density lipoproteins.

Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is a severe myeloproliferative neoplasm that is characterized by low-differentiation megakaryoblasts and progressive bone marrow fibrosis. Although an Aurora kinase A (AURKA) targeting small-molecule inhibitor MLN8237 has been approved in clinical trials for differentiation therapy of high-risk PMF patients, its off-target side effects lead to a partial remission and serious complications. Here, we report a dual-targeting therapy agent (rLDL-MLN) with great clinical translation potential for differentiation therapy of PMF disease. In particular, the reconstituted low-density lipoprotein (rLDL) nanocarrier and the loaded MLN8237 can actively target malignant hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) via LDL receptors and intracellular AURKA, respectively. In contrast to free MLN8237, rLDL-MLN effectively prohibits the proliferation of PMF cell lines and abnormal HSPCs and significantly induces their differentiation, as well as prevents the formation of erythrocyte and megakaryocyte colonies from abnormal HSPCs. Surprisingly, even at a 1500-fold lower dosage (0.01mg/kg) than that of free MLN8237, rLDL-MLN still exhibits a much more effective therapeutic effect, with the PMF mice almost clear of blast cells. More importantly, rLDL-MLN promotes hematological recovery without any toxic side effects at the effective dosage, holding great promise in the targeted differentiation therapy of PMF patients.

Metformin mitigates radiation toxicity exerting antioxidant and genoprotective properties.

The antidiabetic drug metformin (MF) exhibits redox-modulating effects in various pathologies associated with oxidative stress and mitigates ionizing radiation-induced toxicity, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Thus, we studied some radiomitigatory effects of MF and explored the possible mechanisms behind them. Highly sensitive luminescence methods and non-competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used in in vitro studies, and in vivo the damage to bone marrow cells and its repair were assessed by the micronucleus test. In a solution, MF at concentrations exceeding 0.1µM effectively intercepts •OH upon X-ray-irradiation, but does not react directly with H2O2. MF accelerates the decomposition of H2O2 catalyzed by copper ions. MF does not affect the radiation-induced formation of H2O2 in the solution of bovine gamma-globulin (BGG), but has a modulating effect on the generation of H2O2 in the solution of bovine serum albumin (BSA). MF at 0.05-1mM decreases the radiation-induced formation of 8-oxoguanine in a DNA solution depending on the concentration of MF with a maximum at 0.25mM. MF at doses of 3mg/kg body weight (bw) and 30mg/kg bw administered to mice after irradiation, but not before irradiation, reduces the frequency of micronucleus formation in polychromatophilic erythrocytes of mouse red bone marrow. Our work has shown that the radiomitigatory properties of MF are mediated by antioxidant mechanisms of action, possibly including its ability to chelate polyvalent metal ions.

The Effect Of Avocado Fruit On The Nutritional Needs Of Pregnant Women Trimeter I At Pmb Tati Hidayat Jati Rahayu Bekasi In 2022

Pregnant women most commonly experience anemia during the first trimester of pregnancy as a result of poor diet, which causes nausea and a lack of appetite. Chronic energy deficiency (CED) in pregnant wom en is caused by a long-lasting lack of energy intake in the mother, causing health problems. Pregnant women's nutritional intake has a significant impact on fetal growth during pregnancy, the incidence of low birth weight during delivery, and the baby's growth and development. Avocado (Persea americana) is a fruit that is very well known and popular with the public. Apart from having a delicious taste and soft texture, avocados also have several health benefits. The main components of avocados are carotenoids, fatty acids, minerals, phenolics, phytosterols, proteins, and many vitamins. Avocado is a fruit that is rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A has a role in erythropoiesis related to its function of synthesizing protein so that it will affect the growth of bone cells. Bone marrow is the site of the formation of erythrocytes. Vitamin A is needed in several essential processes in the body, such as metabolism, hematopoiesis, and erythropoiesis; it also regulates cell differentiation and plays a role in the immune system.The approach used in this re search is experimental research. Experimental research is research that is carried out by manipulating, and it aims to determine the effect of manipulation on the observed individual's behavior. Manipulation carried out can be in the form of certain situations or actions given to individuals or groups, and after that, the effect can be seen. This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of a treatment given inten tionally by the researcher. Giving this treatment is a peculiarity of experimental research compared to other studies. The results showed that there was a significant relationship between giving avocado fruit and improving the nutrition of first-trimester pregnant women, as indicated by the p value of 0.000. This is supported by research data showing that giving avocado fruit increases nutrition more, namely by as much as 70%, while not regularly consuming a lot of avocado fruit does not increase nutrition by 30%.

Potential Antioxidative Activity of Homocysteine in Erythrocytes under Oxidative Stress.

Homocysteine is an amino acid containing a free sulfhydryl group, making it probably contribute to the antioxidative capacity in the body. We recently found that plasma total homocysteine (total-Hcy) concentration increased with time when whole blood samples were kept at room temperature. The present study was to elucidate how increased plasma total-Hcy is produced and explore the potential physiological role of homocysteine. Erythrocytes and leukocytes were separated and incubated in vitro; the amount of total-Hcy released by these two kinds of cells was then determined by HPLC-MS. The effects of homocysteine and methionine on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, osmotic fragility, and methemoglobin formation in erythrocytes under oxidative stress were studied. The reducing activities of homocysteine and methionine were tested by ferryl hemoglobin (Hb) decay assay. As a result, it was discovered that erythrocytes metabolized methionine to homocysteine, which was then oxidized within the cells and released to the plasma. Homocysteine and its precursor methionine could significantly decrease Rosup-induced ROS production in erythrocytes and inhibit Rosup-induced erythrocyte's osmotic fragility increase and methemoglobin formation. Homocysteine (but not methionine) was demonstrated to enhance ferryl Hb reduction. In conclusion, erythrocytes metabolize methionine to homocysteine, which contributes to the antioxidative capability under oxidative stress and might be a supplementary protective factor for erythrocytes against ROS damage.

Effect Of Infused White Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus) Pell On Hemoglobin Level, Eritrosit Count, And Hematocrit Levels In Anemia White Rats

Anemia is a medical condition when the concentration of hemoglobin, erythrocytes, or hematocrit is less than average. The peels of white dragon fruit contains iron, vitamin C and flavonoids, which play an essential role as hemoglobin production. These flavonoids can increase erythropoiesis (erythrocyte formation process) and have immunostimulant effects. This research aimed to analyze the effect of giving peel undatus level infusion toward the number of hemoglobin, erythrocytes and hematocrit levels in anemia sufferer. Twenty-five male wistar rats given per oral injected with Natrium Nitrit before treatment. Wistar rats then grouped into five treatment groups, they are: the control group (without treatment), infusion of peels white dragon fruit with a concentration of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The results showed that there was a significant increase on the number of hemoglobin, erythrocytes and hematocrit levels of the rat after it was given with infusion of white dragon fruit peel. The conclution of this research is infusion of white dragon fruit peel increase the number of hemoglobin, erythrocytes and hematocrit levels.

STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL INTERDEPENDENCES OF BIOLOGICAL ORGANISMS IN EXTREME CONDITIONS

Investigations of the adaptation of living organisms/human body to various extreme factors are extremely important. Aim. To characterize and analyze the results of research of structural and functional interdependencies of organisms in extreme conditions. Methods. Comparative analysis of the registered biochemical, physiological characteristics of the body, mathematical modelling of underlying mechanisms on their basis, information and computer technologies. Results. Deviations of organisms’ functions during adaptation processes caused changes in some structures of organism. Significant role of quantitative and qualitative changes of the erythrocyte formation system in the reliability of organisms functioning in extreme conditions in highlands was confirmed. The changes in red and white blood cells reflected largely the relationships between the organisms’ reactivity and resistance. The dependences on degree of rarefaction of the air, mode of climbing, effects of athlete’s training, etc. were revealed. Adaptive hemolysis of erythrocytes, when the biologically active substances were released from blood cells and acted as messengers, were shown to be the triggers capable to change cell metabolism; they played significant roles in reliability of organisms functioning. The set of program models was developed. Results were applied successfully for training of athletes for high-altitude climbing. Conclusions. Results of the studies on the structural and functional interdependencies of organisms in extreme conditions were reviewed and analyzed. Results of mathematical modeling coincided with the results obtained in experiments and observations. In the process of adaptation to hypoxia human organism behaved likes an ultrastable system. Obtained results can be applied in practice.

Severe anemia on the treatment of a Lepra patient with a history of long-term steroid consumption suspect of Cushing syndrome

ABSTRACT Anemia is a clinical symptom caused by the disruption of erythrocyte formation, bleeding, and premature blood hemolysis. Severe anemia can occur in patients taking dapsone for the treatment of leprosy. Long-term use of steroids is also a predisposing factor for the occurrence of hematological changes and raises the suspicion of Cushing's syndrome. Reportedly a 20-year-old woman with the main complaint of sudden shortness of breath, accompanied by a cough with phlegm. The patient has had a history of multibacillary type leprosy since a month ago. There was a history of steroid consumption for about two years and only stopped a couple of months ago. Physical examination showed the oxygen saturation was 93%, conjunctival anemia, hyperpigmented plaques, tenderness in the abdominal, meteorism, and pitting edema in the upper and lower extremities. Laboratory examination revealed hemoglobin (Hb) level 2.4 mg/dl, erythrocytes 0.8x106/ul, and albumin 3.2g/dl. Peripheral blood smear results suggest refractory anemia and myelodysplasia syndrome. After being treated for seven days, the patient was re-evaluated and controlled at the Internal Medicine outpatient clinic, Syekh Yusuf Hospital. Complex symptoms and limited investigations make it difficult to establish the exact cause. Immediate blood transfusion and management of the underlying disease causing anemia, such as discontinuation of dapsone, are the primary management of this case. Keywords : severe anemia, leprosy, steroid, Cushing syndrome.Correspondence : gedepadmawijaya@yahoo.com

Environmental Hypoxia is a Driver of Sonic Hedgehog-dependent Troglomorphic Evolution in Astyanax Cavefish

Astyanax mexicanus cavefish (CF) have evolved numerous troglomorphic traits since their divergence from surface fish (SF) ancestors about 20,000 years ago. A large number of these traits are under the control of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), a signaling morphogen that is overexpressed along the midline in CF relative to SF embryos. The Shh-dependent traits include eye degeneration and increases in the olfactory lobes, hypothalamus, jaws, and oral taste buds. Eye degeneration and tastebud enhancement are antagonistic tradeoffs governed by the pleiotropic shh gene. CF have also evolved multiple changes in circulatory system development, highlighted by larger hematopoietic domains, more erythrocytes, and reversals in normal heart asymmetry, which are also controlled by Shh signaling. Although Shh signaling is an important factor in CF troglomorphism, the shh gene is not associated with any of the many QTL identified by genetic analysis, suggesting that upstream processes, rather than mutation of the shh locus itself, may be important in Shh regulation. Due to the absence of primary productivity, cave pools harboring Astyanax CF are deficient in dissolved oxygen. Accordingly, the Hypoxia Inducing Factor (HIF) transcription factors and their downstream targets are constitutively active during CF development. To determine if oxygen deficiency is an upstream regulator of Shh signaling, we subjected early SF embryos to 8 or 16 hours of hypoxia in the laboratory and assayed the effects on shh expression, erythrocyte formation, heart asymmetry, and eye development. The results indicated that hypoxia can cause shh overexpression, increase erythropoiesis, reverse heart asymmetry, and induce eye degeneration in SF embryos. We conclude that environmental hypoxia may be responsible for the evolution of troglomorphic traits in Astyanax CF through hyperactivation of the Shh signaling pathway.

Prevalence of Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Infants Living in Rural Areas and the Factors that Influence it in the Pandemic COVID-19 Era

BACKGROUND: Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is caused by inadequate intake of iron or impaired erythrocyte formation due to chronic blood loss. AIM: This study aimed to obtain data on the prevalence of iron deficiency and IDA in the pandemic COVID-19 era and to investigate the relationship of infant nutritional status, maternal education, maternal occupation, maternal parity, and family income with the prevalence of iron deficiency and IDA in infants 9–12 months at the Cempaka Banjarbaru Community Health Center. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytic descriptive approach was used with a consecutive sampling technique to conduct this study. The sample consisted of 50 infants between 9 and 12 months old that had completed blood count and peripheral blood smear at measles immunization in May–September 2020 at the Cempaka Banjarbaru Community Health Center. RESULTS: The results showed that the prevalence of iron deficiency, IDA, and hemolytic anemia was 16%, 28%, and 22%, respectively. Meanwhile, the data analysis was conducted using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test. The results showed a significant relationship between family income factors and the prevalence of iron deficiency and IDA (p = 0.023). CONCLUSION: Infants at the age of 9–12 months need to have a complete blood count examination to detect an earlier iron deficiency and IDA.