Full Blood Count Analysis Research Articles

Relationship between Preoperative Red Cell Distribution Width and Prolonged Postoperative Use of Catecholamines in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background/Objectives: Elevated RDW has emerged in cardiac surgery as a potential means of preoperative risk stratification with the capacity to predict short- and long-term postoperative mortality, acute kidney injury, and postoperative atrial fibrillation. The question as to whether perioperative hemodynamic instability may be predicted by such a marker remains a topic of ongoing debate. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between preoperative RDW and prolonged postoperative catecholamine use in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery. Methods: We performed a retrospective monocentric cohort study in an academic hospital; we enrolled patients who had undergone minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (including both robot-assisted and non-robot-assisted procedures) between January 2019 and December 2022. We considered the use of inotropes and/or vasopressors for at least twelve hours after post-surgery ICU admission to qualify as the prolonged postoperative use of catecholamines (PPUC). The RDW was obtained from the routine full blood count analysis performed upon admission or a maximum of 72 h before surgery. We also performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis with PPUC as the dependent variable. Results: We finally enrolled 343 patients. Upon multivariate analysis, RDW >14.4% was independently associated with prolonged postoperative catecholamine use when compared to the reference group (OR 2.62 [1.06-4.84]; p = 0.03). Moreover, the EuroSCORE II score (OR 1.38 [1.03-1.85]; p = 0.03), the cross-clamp time (OR 1.01 [1.01-1.02]; p < 0.01), and robot-assisted mitral valve surgery (OR 0.53 [0.30-0.93]; p < 0.03) were independently associated with the prolonged postoperative use of catecholamines. Conclusions: This study identified that an elevated preoperative RDW (>14.4%), the EuroSCORE II score, and the cross-clamp time independently predict prolonged postoperative catecholamine use in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery patients. Conversely, the robot-assisted approach was associated with a smaller hemodynamic impairment.

Hematološke varijacije povezane sa konzumiranjem alkohola u univerzitetskoj zajednici u Nigeriji

Introduction: Alcohol consumption is widespread, contributing to approximately 3 million deaths worldwide. This study aimed to assess haema-tological indices among alcohol consumers compared to non-consumers in the University of Calabar Community , Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This case-control study enrolled 100 subjects (50 alcohol consumers and 50 non-consumers) from the University of Calabar community. Blood samples were collected aseptically for Full Blood Count and Thrombin Time analysis. Rigorous study design, meticulous data collection, and thorough analysis ensured the reliability of our findings. Results: The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (76.21 ± 7.35 fl), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) (25.31 ± 3.26 pg), Platelet (PLT) (154.38 ± 54.89 x 10 9) and Platelet Crit (PCT) (0.14 ± 0.04%) of alcohol consumers were significantly lower than that of the controls respectively (79.36 ± 5.76 fl, 26.47 ± 2.15 pg, 187.22 ± 58.34 x 10 9 and 0.17 ± 0.04%) (p &lt; 0.05). At the same time, the red cells distribution width (RDWCV), Platelet distribution width (PDW), and thrombin time (TT) varied significantly among alcohol consumers (15.14 ± 1.05%, 14.91 ± 0.43fl and 15.22 ± 2.53s) respectively than in the controls (14.74 ± 0.95%, 14.76 ± 0.29 fl and 12.70 ± 1.52s). Other parameters were comparable (p &gt; 0.05) between the two groups of subjects studied. A significant negative correlation (r = 0.801, p = 0.001) was observed between Thrombin time and Plateletcrit in the test subjects. In contrast, a significant positive correlation (r = 0.698, p = 0.001) was observed between Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration and Haemoglobin in alcohol consumption. A significant negative correlation (r = 0.973, p = 0.001) was observed between lym-phocytes and granulocytes in percentage in the test subjects. These significant findings provide valuable insights into the haematological variations associated with alcohol consumption. Conclusion: These significant differences observed in this study underscore the impact of alcohol consumption on haematological indices. The study concluded that derangements in some hematological parameters occur in alcoholics, which can affect their quality of life.

Haematological Profiles of Plasmodium-Induced Changes in Serum Amyloid-A levels among the Internally Displaced Persons in Maiduguri

The menace of malaria has constituted a health challenge in Nigeria. Internally Displaced Persons’ Camps are available temporary accommodation provided for victims of war in war torn zones around the world. A study was undertaken to investigate relationship between Serum Amyloid A (SAA), haematological profiles and malaria infection among internally displaced person in three (3) different camps (GGC: Government Girls’ College Camp, GSS: Girls’ Secondary School Camp, CAN-: Christian Association of Nigeria) within Maiduguri, Borno state capital between March and September, 2017. A total of 400 sample subjects were recruited for the study, malaria parasite test was done using the Giemsa thick and thin peripheral blood film, SAA was analysed using the Enzyme linked immune-sobent assay (ELISA) kit while Haematological parameters were analyse using the automatic full blood count analyser. The result of the study shows a positive correlation between malaria infection and these parameters. A mean SAA of 32.76mg/l, PCV of 28.2%, haemoglobin of 8.88g/dl, platelets of 116.54×103 /µl, leucocyte of 6.02×103 /mm3 and neutrophils of 3.34×103 /mm3 was recorded in the positive subjects compared to the 14.11mg/l, 41%, 14.81g/dl, 261.46×103/µl, 8.23×103 /mm3 , 4.11×103 /mm3 reported in the negative patients group, this results shows that there are abnormal haematological alterations in malaria subjects compared to the negative control group, hence SAA and haematological parameters can be used as markers of plasmodium infection.

Hematological indices among young adults with homozygous sickle cell disease in steady state in southwestern Nigeria: a case–control study

Abstract Background: Sickle cell disease is a genetic abnormality involving the haemoglobin synthesis. Although it is a primary red cell disorder, white blood cells (WBC) and platelets are also affected by the mutation. Aim: To assess and compare the hematological parameters of homozygous sickle cell disease in a steady state with age-matched and sex-matched hemoglobin AA controls. Methods: A total of 150 apparently healthy young adults (18–35 years) participated in this study. They were classified into two groups 88 cases with hemoglobin SS and 62 controls. Venous blood collected into EDTA tubes from participants were used for the full blood count analysis which was done using hematological autoanalyzer (SFRI blood cell counter, H18 light, France). The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and the alpha value was set at P value less than 0.05. Results: The mean values for white blood cell, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean cell volume, red cell distribution width and platelet count were significantly higher in the Hb SS cohort while the packed cell volume and red cell count were significantly lower in the Hb SS cohort. Conclusions: homozygous sickle cell disease patients have lower values of hemoglobin concentration, PCV, the red cell indices but higher values of white cell count and platelets compared with hemoglobin phenotype AA controls.

Evaluation of Some Haematological Metrics among Smokers in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Introduction: Smoking is extremely toxic and has had a significant negative impact on society. One of the leading contributors to preventable illness and mortality has been found to be cigarette smoking.&#x0D; Aim: The goal of this study is to evaluate a few haematological metrics among smokers in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and to verify the idea that smoking cigarettes either has a negative or favorable impact on these variables.&#x0D; Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, 100 participants between the ages of 20 and 45 were included, 50 of whom were smokers and 50 non-smokers. Venipuncture was used to obtain blood samples from the patients, which was then put into an EDTA vial for a full blood count (FBC) and other haematological analysis. The full blood count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were done using Haemo Auto Analyzer, Model XP-300 KOBE Japan by SYSMEX and the Westergreen method respectively. In order to analyze the data, Graph Prism Pad 6.2 and Microsoft Office Excel 2016 were both used. Using the student's independent t-test, a comparative study of mean and standard deviation values for the various parameters for test and reference ranges was conducted.&#x0D; Results: According to the findings, the average age of 50 smokers was 43.6200± 9.7250 years and that for the 50 non-smokers was 42.7800± 6.5440 years, which was statistically insignificant with p valve of 0.6130. Smokers’ haemoglobin level was 14.5080 ± 1.5590 (g/dL) and non-smokers was 12.1340 ± 0.70410 (g/dL). According to statistics, the level of Hb was significantly higher in smokers compared to non-smokers (P&lt;0.0001). In comparison to non-smokers, the RBC count dramatically increased in smokers (P&lt;0.0001) greater than in non-smokers at 5.2550 ± 0.6629 (x1012/L) and 4.6340 ± 0.5530 (x1012/L) respectively. While the total leucocyte count (TLC) in smokers is 8.0500 ± 1.8796 (x109/L), compared to 6.8580 ± 1.2454 (x109/L) in non-smokers. Statistics show that smokers have a higher total leucocyte count than non-smokers (P&lt;0.0002). Smokers' platelet count is 255.7600±61.8351 (x109/L) while non-smokers' is 216.5800±35.5752 (x109/L).The study has statistically shown that smokers' platelet counts rose considerably in comparison to non-smokers (P&lt;0.012).&#x0D; Conclusion: It may be concluded that uninterrupted smoking has an undue negative impact on haematological parameters such that increase occur in values of Hb, RBC, TLC and platelets. Significantly, these changes may increase the risk of serious health issues such as heart related defects, hardening of the arteries, Vaquez-Osler disease. It is recommended that smokers have these metrics regularly monitored.

Circulating Naturally-Occurring Anticoagulants before Treatment and after Recovery from SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Ghana

Background: Disturbance in naturally-occurring anticoagulants may contribute to the hypercoagulable state in COVID-19. This study determined the plasma antigen levels of protein C (PC), protein S (PS), antithrombin-III (AT-III), and thrombomodulin (TM) before treatment and after recovery from COVID-19. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted from February to August 2022 at Kumasi South Hospital, recruited sixty-five RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 participants. A venous blood sample was taken for full blood count (FBC) analysis using a 3-part fully automated haematology analyzer, and PC, PS, AT-III, and TM antigen levels measured using ELISA. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Severe COVID-19 participants had relatively lower haemoglobin (p&lt;0.001), RBC (p&lt;0.001), HCT% (p&lt;0.001) and platelets (p&lt;0.001), but higher RDW-CV% (p=0.013), WBC (p&lt;0.001), and absolute lymphocyte counts (p&lt;0.001) compared to those with the non-severe form of the disease. The overall prevalence of anaemia among the participants was 58.5%, and 32 (84.2%) and 6 (15.8%) of the anaemic participants had mild and moderate anaemia respectively. Protein C (p&lt;0.001), PS (p&lt;0.001) and ATIII (p&lt;0.001) levels were lower among the severe COVID-19 participants than in the non-severe group. But severe COVID-19 group had higher TM levels (p&lt;0.001) than the non-severe group. Again, participants had higher haemoglobin (p&lt;0.001), RBC (p&lt;0.001), HCT% (p=0.049), absolute neutrophil count (p&lt;0.001) and platelets (p&lt;0.001) after recovery from COVID-19 than the values on admission. Additionally, after recovery, participants had higher levels of PC (p&lt;0.001), PS (p&lt;0.001), and ATIII (p&lt;0.001), but reduced TM (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Severe COVID-19 patients had higher PC, PS, and AT-III, but lower TM levels. The changes in circulating anticoagulants may contribute to the hypercoagulable state of COVID-19. Blood cell indices are negatively affected during COVID-19. Complete recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 infection normalised the haematological indices. Assessment of naturally-occurring anticoagulants and the provision of anticoagulants are recommended in the management of COVID-19. Doi: 10.28991/SciMedJ-2022-04-04-01 Full Text: PDF

Performance analysis of the compact haematology analyser Sight OLO.

Sight OLO is a compact full blood count (FBC) analyser that uses digital imaging techniques and artificial intelligence to count and assess cellular components of capillary or venous blood. It provides a FBC with a 5-part white blood cell differential count. Our aim was to evaluate its performance against our standard analyser and optical microscopy. Comparative studies for the FBC parameters were done between the Sight OLO and the Unicel DxH800 analyser (Beckman Coulter). Evaluation comprised also repeatability studies and reproducibility studies. The flagging efficiency of the Sight OLO was assessed against the reference method (optical microscopy). The SIGHT OLO showed a good comparability with the Unicel DxH800 analyser for most of the FBC parameters (r> 0.9). The biases recorded between both equipments were within the manufacturer's target specifications for all the FBC parameters. The standard deviation and coefficient of variation calculated per parameter for the precision studies were within the manufacturer's target specifications for all FBC parameters, for all the variation components tested. The five alert flags assessed showed an overall efficiency above 75%, however, high frequency of false negatives was noted for some of the flags assessed. The evaluation of the Sight OLO showed that it can produce accurate FBC results, making it a suitable option for integration in several setups. Its innovative methodology gives it further potential to refine its capabilities.

The Impact of Laboratory Findings and Optical Coherence Tomography Biomarkers on Response to Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Treatment in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate potential laboratory and imaging biomarkers as treatment response predictors to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods The study included 36 treatment naïve patients with DME, treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents and followed-up for 12 months. At baseline, all participants underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement, dilated fundoscopy, optical coherence tomography, color fundus photography and fluorescein angiography, while full blood count and biochemical analysis of various parameters was also performed. At month 12, treatment response was examined and classified as “favorable” or “non-response”. Potential associations between laboratory/imaging biomarkers and treatment response were assessed. Results Univariate analysis showed that favorable response at month 12 after initiation of anti-VEGF treatment was correlated with baseline central subfield thickness (CST)≤405 μm (p < .001), absence of subretinal fluid (p = .034), absence of exudates (p = .041), absence of disorganization of the inner retinal layers (p = .037), intact ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) (p < .001 and p = .002, respectively), absence of epiretinal membrane (ERM) (p = .040) and absence of macular ischemia (p = .042), while increased lipoprotein(a) was associated with no treatment response (p = .025). At the multivariate analysis, CST was found to be independent predictor of treatment response, while EZ, ELM and ERM were found to predict treatment response perfectly and they could not be entered in the model. Conclusion Intact EZ and ELM, absence of ERM and CST≤405 μm at baseline can predict favorable treatment response in patients with treatment naïve DME, while no correlation with baseline laboratory parameters was found.

The impact of laboratory findings and optical coherence tomography biomarkers on response to intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment in patients with retinal vein occlusion.

To investigate potential laboratory and imaging biomarkers as treatment response predictors to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Participants in this prospective study were 53 patients with treatment naïve macular edema secondary to RVO, treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents and followed-up for 12months. At baseline, all participants underwent best-corrected visual acuity measurement, dilated fundoscopy, optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography (FFA), while full blood count and biochemical analysis of various parameters was also performed. At month 12, treatment response was examined and classified as "favorable" or "non-response". Potential associations between laboratory/imaging biomarkers and treatment response were assessed. Univariate analysis showed that "favorable" response at month 12 after initiation of anti-VEGF treatment was correlated with baseline central subfield thickness (CST) < 464μm (p < 0.001), absence of subretinal fluid (p = 0.004), absence of hyperreflective foci (HF) (p = 0.004), intact ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively), absence of epiretinal membrane (ERM) (p = 0.020) and absence of macular ischemia on FFA (p < 0.001), while increased monocytes-to-lymphocytes ratio was also associated with "favorable" treatment response (p = 0.010). All other laboratory parameters did not reach statistical significance. However, at the multivariate analysis, EZ and ELM status, HF, macular ischemia and monocytes-to-lymphocytes ratio were found to be independent predictors of treatment response. Intact EZ and ELM, absence of HF, absence of macular ischemia and increased monocytes-to-lymphocytes ratio at baseline can predict "favorable" treatment response in patients with treatment naïve macular edema secondary to RVO.

Prevalence and aetiologies of anaemia among first trimester pregnant women in Sri Lanka; the need for revisiting the current control strategies

BackgroundThe Sustainable development goals, which focus strongly on equity, aim to end all forms of malnutrition by 2030. However, a significant cause of intergenerational transfer of malnutrition, anaemia in pregnancy, is still a challenge. It is especially so in the low- and middle-income settings where possible context-specific aetiologies leading to anaemia have been poorly explored. This study explores the prevalence of etiological factors significantly contributing to anaemia in pregnancy in Sri Lanka, a lower-middle-income country with a high prevalence of malnutrition albeit robust public health infrastructure.MethodsAll first-trimester pregnant women registered in the public maternal care programme in the Anuradhapura district from July to September 2019 were invited to participate in Rajarata Pregnancy Cohort (RaPCo). After a full blood count analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography, peripheral blood film examination, serum B12 and folate levels were performed in anaemic participants, guided by an algorithm based on the red cell indices in the full blood count. In addition, serum ferritin was tested in a random subsample of 213 participants. Anaemic women in this subsample underwent B12 and folate testing.ResultsAmong 3127 participants, 14.4% (95%CI 13.2–15.7, n = 451) were anaemic. Haemoglobin ranged between 7.4 to 19.6 g/dl. 331(10.6%) had mild anaemia. Haemoglobin ≥13 g/dl was observed in 39(12.7%). Microcytic, normochromic-normocytic, hypochromic-normocytic and macrocytic anaemia was observed in 243(54%), 114(25.3%), 80(17.8%) and two (0.4%) of full blood counts in anaemic women, respectively. Microcytic anaemia with a red cell count ≥5 * 106 /μl demonstrated a 100% positive predictive value for minor haemoglobinopathies. Minor hemoglobinopathies were present in at least 23.3%(n = 105) of anaemic pregnant women. Prevalence of iron deficiency, B12 deficiency and Southeast Asian ovalocytosis among the anaemic was 41.9% (95%CI 26.4–59.2), 23.8% (95%CI 10.6–45.1) and 0.9% (95%CI 0.3–2.3%), respectively. Folate deficiency was not observed.ConclusionEven though iron deficiency remains the primary cause, minor hemoglobinopathies, B 12 deficiency and other aetiologies substantially contribute to anaemia in pregnancy in this study population. Public health interventions, including screening for minor hemoglobinopathies and multiple micronutrient supplementation in pregnancy, should be considered in the national programme for areas where these problems have been identified.

Pattern of Haematological Indices Among Pregnant Women at Booking in Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano

Background: Haematological changes are some of the physiological events that occur in pregnancy. A proportion of women die each year as a result of pregnancy complications related to hematological profile alterations. This study observed the haemoglobin level, white blood cell and platelets counts of pregnant women and their association with sociodemographic factors.Objectives: To determine the pattern of haematological indices of pregnant women at booking in Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and to determine the sociodemographic characteristics that affect haematological indices among the women.Methodology: The study was a cross sectional study of 256 pregnant women who booked for antenatal care at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Kano. The sociodemographic information of the women was obtained using an interviewer administered questionnaire. About 3mls of venous blood was collected from each of the clients and put into an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) bottle; a full blood count analysis was then run on the samples. Results: The mean values for the different indices were: WBC 5.31 ± 2.68 x109/L, Haemoglobin level was 10.59 ± 1.13 g/dl and Platelet count was 208.4 ± 6.07 x109/ L. Majority of the clients were anaemic (68.35%), thrombocytopenia was found in 27.3%, and 40.63% had leucocytopenia. Statistical test of association using one –way ANOVA found no association between haemoglobin level and gestational age and no association between haemoglobin level and parity. However there were associations between haemoglobin level and age of the clients, and haemoglobin level and educational status. Conclusion: Significant proportion of women in this study were anaemic at booking and had no formal education; this demonstrates the need for awareness of the general public for the girl child education and women empowerment.

Pseudothrombocytosis Due to Red Blood Cell Fragmentation in Haemoglobin-H Disease

Red cell fragmentation may result in erroneously high platelet counts by automated blood counters. Therefore, any abnormal platelet counts in a full blood count analysis should be re-evaluated either using blood film manual counting or with more accurate automated analysis options.

Dental caries and its association with the oral microbiomes and HIV in young children\u2014Nigeria (DOMHaIN): a cohort study

BackgroundThis study seeks to understand better the mechanisms underlying the increased risk of caries in HIV-infected school-aged Nigerian children by examining the relationship between the plaque microbiome and perinatal HIV infection and exposure. We also seek to investigate how perinatal HIV infection and exposure impact tooth-specific microbiomes' role on caries disease progression.MethodsThe participants in this study were children aged 4 to 11 years recruited from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Nigeria, between May to November 2019. Overall, 568 children were enrolled in three groups: 189 HIV-infected (HI), 189 HIV-exposed but uninfected (HEU) and 190 HIV-unexposed and uninfected (HUU) as controls at visit 1 with a 2.99% and 4.90% attrition rate at visit 2 and visit 3 respectively. Data were obtained with standardized questionnaires. Blood samples were collected for HIV, HBV and HCV screening; CD4, CD8 and full blood count analysis; and plasma samples stored for future investigations; oral samples including saliva, buccal swabs, oropharyngeal swab, tongue swab, dental plaque were collected aseptically from participants at different study visits.ConclusionsResults from the study will provide critical information on how HIV exposure, infection, and treatment, influence the oral microbiome and caries susceptibility in children. By determining the effect on community taxonomic structure and gene expression of dental microbiomes, we will elucidate mechanisms that potentially create a predisposition for developing dental caries. As future plans, the relationship between respiratory tract infections, immune and inflammatory markers with dental caries in perinatal HIV infection and exposure will be investigated.

Assessment of the Usefulness of Red Cell Indices as a Screening Tool in Haemoglobin E Trait: A Cross Sectional Study

The study was carried out on 25 Haemoglobin E trait and 25 controls between 20 to 64 years of age. In all the participants' full blood count analysis and Haemoglobin variant analysis were done. Participants were selected after excluding all factors which affect red cell indices such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, pregnancy, liver disease, hypothyroidism, chronic alcohol consumption, Diabetes mellitus, Metformin treatment and recent blood transfusion. Comparative analysis of all haematological parameters done between two groups separately for males and females.

Asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium falciparum infection in children in the Mount Cameroon area: a cross-sectional study on altitudinal influence, haematological parameters and risk factors

BackgroundThe Mount Cameroon area has experienced a 57.2% decline in confirmed malaria cases between 2006 and 2013 with the implementation of different control measures but, the disease is still of public health concern. The objective of the study was to assess the burden of asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection, altitudinal influence on it, their effect on haematological parameters as well as identify the risk factors of infection.MethodologyA cross-sectional community-based survey involving 1319 children of both sexes aged 6 months to 14 years was conducted between July 2017 and May 2018. Malaria parasitaemia was confirmed by Giemsa-stained microscopy, sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection by 18S mRNA using nested PCR and full blood count analysis was done using an auto haematology analyser.ResultsMalaria parasite, asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection and anaemia were prevalent in 36.4%, 34.0%, 43.8% and 62.3% of the children, respectively. The risk of having sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection was highest in children 5‒9 (OR = 3.13, P < 0.001) and 10‒14 years of age (OR = 8.18, P < 0.001), non-insecticide treated net users (OR = 1.69, P < 0.04) and those anaemic (OR = 9.01, P < 0.001). Children with sub-microscopic infection had a significantly lower mean haemoglobin (9.86 ± 1.7 g/dL, P < 0.001), red blood cell counts (4.48 ± 1.1 × 1012/L, P < 0.001), haematocrit (31.92%, P < 0.001), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (313.25 ± 47.36, P = 0.035) and platelet counts (280.83 ± 112.62, P < 0.001) than their negative counterparts. Children < 5 years old (73.8%), having asymptomatic (69.8%) and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection (78.3%) as well as resident in the middle belt (72.7%) had a higher prevalence of anaemia than their peers.ConclusionThe meaningful individual-level heterogeneity in the burden of asymptomatic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection in addition to its corollary on haematological variables among children in the different attitudinal sites of the Mount Cameroon Region accentuate the need for strategic context specific planning of malaria control and preventative measures.

Relationship between Maternal Hemoglobin Concentration to the Newborn Cord Blood Hemoglobin and Serum Concentration

Objective: To determine the mean cord blood hemoglobin and ferritin concentration in newborn of anemic mothers. Study Design: Cross sectional Place and Duration: Gynae &amp; Obs department of Dow University Hospital, a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan during the period from January, 2018 to July, 2019. Methodology: A total of 100 anemic pregnant women as per inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this study. Cord blood sample (5ml) was obtained by sterile needle puncture immediately after cord clamping. 2ml will collected in EDTA bottle for full blood count analysis and 3ml collected in plain bottle for serum ferritin analysis. Final outcome was recorded on approved proforma. Results: The average age of the patients was 29.33±3.23 years. Mean cord blood hemoglobin and ferritin concentration in newborn of anemic mothers was 14.78±1.62 g/dl and 94.10±67.47 u/ml. Conclusion: We found that average hemoglobin of the women recruited in our study was 9.59±0.815 g/dl however we could find no correlation between mean cord blood hemoglobin and ferritin concentration in newborn of anemic mothers. Key Words: Cord blood Hemoglobin, Ferritin, Anemic mothers

Nutritional, Biochemical and Haematological Indices of White Albino Rats Fed Complementary Diets Developed from Selected Cereals and Legumes

Background: Childhood malnutrition is a common public health problem in Ethiopia. This animal study aims to evaluate the haematological, biochemical, and nutritional indices of weanling albino rats fed on complementary diets developed from selected cereals and legumes. Methods: The nutritional qualities of the formulated blends were assessed biologically by feeding white albino rats in order to determine feed intake, the growth rate, protein quality parameters, biochemical and haematological properties. The commercial weaning diet (cerifam) and casein were used as control diets. On the 28th day, blood samples were collected from three randomly selected rats by decapitation. Full blood count analysis was carried out using the Automated Haematologic Analyzer to determine haematological parameters. All the biochemical parameters were determined using Mindray diagnostic kits. Results and Discussion: The food intake pattern showed that animals placed on diet 3, diet 4, casein, and cerifam consumed more food than those fed on diet 1, diet 2, and diet 7. The mean growth rate of animals fed on diet 3 and diet 4 was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher than those placed on diet 1, diet 2, and diet 7 but similar to those fed with commercial diet and casein. The protein quality evaluation of the diets showed that the protein efficiency ratio ranged from 1.20 to 2.43 while the biological value was in the range of 54.53 to 69.48%. The net protein utilization and true digestibility were 65.62 to 70.21% and 59.01 to 64.01%, respectively. Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels in rats given diet 3 and diet 4 were comparable to the controls and within the normal range. Comparatively, the creatinine and urea levels of rats fed on the control and formulated diets were within the normal range. The serum alanine aminotransferase values of rats fed on the control and formulated diets ranged from 22.03 IU/L in diet 2 to 37.76 IU/L in diet 4 and were not significantly different from each other. In this study, the packed cell volume and haemoglobin values of the control and formulated diets were within the recommended range. Evidently, diet 3 and diet 4 gave the best growth performance after the feeding trials. Conclusion: The haematological and biochemical indices indicate that these diets can support effective growth and development in rats, and consumption of these diets has no detrimental effects on the liver and renal function.

Toxicity, mutagenicity and trace metal constituent of Termitomyces schimperi (Pat.) R. Heim (Lyophyllaceae) and kaolin, a recipe used traditionally in cancer management in Cote d'Ivoire

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSome local communities in Cote d'Ivoire use the mushroom Termitomyces schimperi combined with kaolin (TSK) to manage various cancers in patients. However, there is a paucity of data on toxicity, mutagenicity and trace metal constituent of TSK. Aim of the studyWe sought to investigate the acute and sub-chronic toxicities, mutagenic potential, and trace metal constituents of TSK. Materials and methodsTo assess acute toxicity, single doses (1000, 3000 and 5000 mg/kg) of aqueous extract of TSK were administrated per os to Sprague Dawley (SD) rats on Day 1. The rats were then monitored for 13 consecutive days. Sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated by daily administration of 200 and 500 mg/kg of the extract per os for 90 consecutive days. SD rats used as control received distilled water. Signs of toxicity, changes in body weight and mortality were monitored. After the aforementioned monitoring processes, rats were sacrificed and blood collected for full blood count and biochemistry analysis. Animal organs were also collected for histopathological examination. The mutagenic potential of the aqueous extract of TSK (10000 μg/mL) on TA98 Salmonella typhimurium was estimated. Additionally, energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) method was employed to determine trace metal constituents of TSK. ResultsSingle-dose administration of 5000 mg/kg of TSK did not cause any death in the SD rats; thus, LD50 was above 5000 mg/kg. Administration of 1000 and 3000 mg/kg of the aqueous extract of TSK did not cause any significant change in behaviour and body weight of SD rats during the 14-day monitoring period. However, the mean corpuscular volume and the mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration increased significantly (p < 0.01) among rats administered 1000 and 3000 mg/kg of TSK. There was a significant increase (p < 0.0001) in alanine transaminase levels in rats administered 1000 and 3000 mg/kg of TSK extract compared with control. Conversely, there was a significant decrease (p=0.0122) in serum creatine level among rats administered 1000 and 3000 mg/kg of TSK extract compared with control. After 14 days, there were minimal changes with isolated organs of TSK-treated and control rats. Furthermore, 90-day treatment with extract of TSK caused no significant change in parameters assessed. TSK induced frameshift gene mutation in S. typhimurium before (p < 0.05) and after metabolic activation (p < 0.001). Elemental analysis of TSK revealed the presence of toxic (aluminium) or potentially toxic (silver, rabidium, titanium and zirconium) elements. ConclusionsThe aqueous extract of TSK showed no toxicity (acute and sub-chronic) at doses tested. These findings are consistent with the absence of heavy metals (i.e., cadmium) and potentially toxic elements (i.e., uranium) in TSK samples analysed. TSK showed some level of mutagenic potential. Further mutagenic and chronic toxicity studies on TSK are required.

Six weeks of dynamic apnoeic training stimulates erythropoiesis but does not increase splenic volume

PurposeThis study examined the influence of dynamic apnoea training on splenic volume and haematological responses in non-breath-hold divers (BHD).MethodsEight non-BHD performed ten maximal dynamic apnoeas, four times a week for six weeks. Splenic volumes were assessed ultrasonically, and blood samples were drawn for full blood count analysis, erythropoietin, iron, ferritin, albumin, protein and osmolality at baseline, 24 h post the completion of each week’s training sessions and seven days post the completion of the training programme. Additionally, blood samples were drawn for haematology at 30, 90, and 180 min post session one, twelve and twenty-four.ResultsErythropoietin was only higher than baseline (6.62 ± 3.03 mlU/mL) post session one, at 90 (9.20 ± 1.88 mlU/mL, p = 0.048) and 180 min (9.04 ± 2.35 mlU/mL, p = 0.046). Iron increased from baseline (18 ± 3 µmol/L) post week five (23 ± 2 µmol/L, p = 0.033) and six (21 ± 6 µmol/L; p = 0.041), whereas ferritin was observed to be lower than baseline (111 ± 82 µg/L) post week five (95 ± 75 µg/L; p = 0.016), six (84 ± 74 µg/L; p = 0.012) and one week post-training (81 ± 63 µg/L; p = 0.008). Reticulocytes increased from baseline (57 ± 12 × 109/L) post week one (72 ± 17 × 109/L, p = 0.037) and six (71 ± 17 × 109/L, p = 0.021) while no changes were recorded in erythrocytes (p = 0.336), haemoglobin (p = 0.124) and splenic volumes (p = 0.357).ConclusionsSix weeks of dynamic apnoeic training increase reticulocytes without altering mature erythrocyte concentration and splenic volume.

Protective Effect of Virgin Coconut Oil on Cyclophosphamide-induced Histological Changes in Lymphoid Tissues

Introduction: Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is known for its health and therapeutic benefits. However, the immunomodulatory effects of VCO have not been extensively investigated. Objective: The present study was devoted to examining the effects of VCO on cyclophosphamide (CY)-induced toxicity of lymphoid tissues. Methods: Thirty healthy male Wistar rats were sorted into 5 groups of 6 animals. The first control (NC) group was given distilled water via gavage at 5 ml/kg once daily. The second (CY) group received CY orally at 10 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. Rats in the other three groups (CV5, CV10, and CV15) were given 10 mg/kg/day CY for 4 weeks, 5 m/kg/day, 10 ml/kg/day and 15 ml/kg/day VCO for 6 weeks, respectively. Rats were sacrificed at the end of 6th week; blood sample from the animals was collected for full blood count and biochemical analysis. The thymus and spleen of each animal was processed for histological examination. Results: The thymus and spleen showed marked reduction in lymphoid cellularity following daily administration of CY. The thymus also showed a marked reduction in the size of the medulla, and the white pulp areas of spleen had reduction in the follicle number and size. Supplementation with 10 ml/kg and 15 ml/kg VCO showed evidence of restoration of both the thymus and splenic lymphoid architecture. The total white cell counts, absolute lymphocyte counts and plasma globulin levels of the VCO groups were significantly increased compared to CY group. Conclusion: VCO displayed potential protective effects on CYinduced histological changes in lymphoid tissues.