Gamma-glutamyl Transferase Concentrations Research Articles

PSVII-25 Amount of colostrum feeding impacts performance and potential colostrum biomarkers at arrival at the rearing facility in unweaned male dairy beef calves

Abstract Eighty-two newborn unweaned Holstein bull calves (43.3 ± 0.86 kg) were used to evaluate the effect of the amount of colostrum feeding on performance and potential colostrum feeding on serum biomarkers. Immediately after calves were born, calves were randomly distributed to well colostrated treatment (WC; n = 49) where calves were fed 4 L of colostrum in less than 2 h after birth and 2 L of colostrum in each of the following 3 feedings; or poor colostrated (PC; n = 33) where calves were fed 2 L of colostrum only once in less than 2 h after birth. At d 14 of age calves were submitted to an assembly center situation for 4 d and transported for 19 h to the rearing farm. Forty-eight hours and 18 d after birth a blood sample was collected to analyze alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cholesterol (CHO), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Calves were weighed (BW) after birth, before transport and at arrival. Data were analyzed using mixed models. At 48 h, serum concentration of ALP, GGT were greater (P < 0.05) for WC compared with PC calves, showing that the difference in the amount of colostrum applied as a treatment was successful. The BW losses from birth to arrival were greater for PC calves (-2.3 ± 0.41 kg) compared with WC calves (-0.02 ± 0.41 kg). Shrink during transport did not differ between treatments. At arrival (d 18) no differences on serum ALP or CHO were observed. However, serum concentration of GGT was greater (P < 0.01) for WC calves compared with PC calves (127.2 ± 9.09 U/L and 55.7 ± 8.95 U/L, respectively). Increasing the amount of colostrum fed to the calves reduces the postnatal weight losses and GGT might be an indicator of colostrum feeding at arrival in calves of 18 d of age.

Semen Quality and Freezability Analyses in the Ejaculates of Two Poitou Donkeys in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Baudet du Poitou is a vanishing donkey breed recognized for engendering robust working mules. In Chile, only two pure breed Poitou males exist, which belong to the Chilean army and are used for mule production. We performed an extensive sperm and seminal analysis of these two jackasses aged 3 and 6 years and investigated the use of a simple hypometabolic extender for sperm cryopreservation. Computer-assisted sperm analysis showed high motility, velocity, and linearity in sperm movement. The seminal plasma analysis revealed that sodium and chloride were the main electrolytes, and globulins were the main metabolites. Active and variable enzymatic activity was observed. New information is reported about gamma-glutamyltransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, zinc, and magnesium concentrations in seminal plasma of Poitou donkeys. Ejaculates among jackasses showed some variability due to individual variability and different stages in sexual maturation according to age. The freezability index analysis based in viability, total motility and progressive motility with Botucrio extender (57.1 ± 11.0%; 56.6 ± 20.0%; and 22.6 ± 10.3%, respectively) were significantly higher (p < 0.05, p < 0.0001, and p < 0.0001, respectively) than with HM-0 extender (42,6 ± 11.4%; 14.9 ± 5.1%; and 1.0 ± 2.5%, respectively). We report new information on Poitou donkey semen and cryopreservation in the Southern Hemisphere that could be useful in donkey breeding and conservation programs to develop strategies that improve the effectiveness of population management of this breed.

Serum Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Levels Predict the Development of Cerebral Infarction in the Korean Population.

PurposeThis study examined the relationship between serum gamma-glutamyltransferase concentration and the risk of cerebral infarction in the Koreans.Materials and MethodsA total of 209,481 out of 223,551 participants in the National Health Information Database who received medical checkups in 2009 were included in the final analysis. The diagnosis code ICD I63 was used for identifying cerebral infarction cases and tracked the development of cerebral infarction by 2013. Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for cerebral infarction and their confidence interval (CI).ResultsDuring a follow-up period of 915,387.5 person-years, 2403 incident cases of cerebral infarction developed between 2009 and 2013. After adjusting for multiple covariates, the hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for incident cerebral infarction, comparing the second, third, and fourth quartile of serum gamma-glutamyltransferase levels with the first quartile, were 1.11 (0.98–1.27), 1.39 (1.22–1.58), and 1.49 (1.29–1.71), respectively (P for trend <0.001).ConclusionElevated serum gamma-glutamyltransferase levels were independently associated with the future development of cerebral infarction in Koreans.

Exploration of the Underlying Nutritional, Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Pathological Mechanisms in Preeclampsia using Principal Component Analysis

Normal pregnancy is characterized by a mild systemic inflammatory response and progressive increase in serum inflammatory cytokines that peak in the third trimester. During pregnancy pre-existing inflammatory conditions, acquired oxidative stress arising from the placenta malfunction and nutritional deficiencies can trigger intense systemic responses that lead to endothelial activation, dysfunction and preeclampsia. We investigated the principal nutritional, oxidative and inflammatory pathways that trigger the clinical manifestation of preeclampsia.&#x0D; This case-control study included 250 women with preeclampsia and 150 normotensive pregnant women. Urinary Iodine concentration (IUC) and serum levels of Ferritin, Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH), selenium, Nitric Oxide (NO) gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), Rheumatoid factor, and high sense C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) of cases and controls were compared using the student’s t and the Mann-Whitney U tests. Principal component analysis was carried out to delineate the patterns of association between nutritional, inflammatory and oxidative markers and preeclampsia.&#x0D; The main pathophysiological pathways identified were the interactions between selenium/iodine deficiency and elevated serum TSH (endothelial dysfunction); serum ferritin, GGT, CRP and low urinary iodine concentration (inflammatory oxidative stress); elevated serum hs-CRP and Rheumatoid factor subclinical inflammation and immune cell activation) and high T3/T4 ratio (acute TSH stimulation of thyroid with low thyroid iodine stores)&#x0D; Combined selenium and iodine deficiency resulting into elevated TSH, low NO and preferential T3 secretion; acute inflammatory conditions associated with elevated serum GGT, CRP, and Ferritin; and subclinical inflammatory conditions characterized by autoimmunity are some of the major oxidant and inflammatory pathways associated with increased risk of preeclampsia.

Coffee Consumption and Liver Health: Results From the UK Biobank

ObjectivesPrevious studies suggest a positive association between coffee consumption and liver health, yet the evidence available is not unequivocal. Given the burden of liver disease, we studied the relationship of habitual coffee consumption with serum biomarkers of liver health and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) incidence. MethodsWe included 209,575 participants from the UK Biobank cohort (mean age 56.1 and 68% women, median coffee consumption per day 1.00 cup [0.50, 3.00]), free of disease at baseline. Firstly, we studied cross-sectional associations of coffee consumption with serum concentrations of the liver enzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and total bilirubin using multivariable linear regressions. Secondly, we analyzed associations with elevated enzyme concentrations according to clinical cutoffs to monitor liver damage, using logistic regressions. Lastly, in a longitudinal analysis, we assessed the association of coffee consumption and incident NAFLD in cox proportional hazard models. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle and health-related factors. Results are reported as β log transformed IU/L, odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with their 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] per one cup increase in coffee intake. ResultsOver a median follow up of 10.9 years, 2258 cases of incident NAFLD occurred in the population. Higher coffee consumption was associated with lower concentrations of log-transformed ALP (–0.005 [95% CI –0.006, –0.005]), ALT (–0.004 [–0.005, –0.003]), AST (–0.005 [–0.005, –0.004]), GGT (–0.008 [–0.009, –0.007]) and total bilirubin (–0.009 [–0.010, –0.008]). Secondly, higher coffee consumption was associated with lower odds of having elevated levels of all studied liver enzymes (OR from 0.91, [0.89, 0.92] for total bilirubin to 0.98 [0.97, 0.98] for GGT). Finally, higher coffee consumption was associated with lower risk of developing NAFLD (HR 0.98 [0.96, 0.99]). ConclusionsIn this large cohort we observed an inverse association between higher coffee consumption and serum concentrations of baseline liver enzymes and NAFLD risk. These findings suggest that habitual consumption of coffee may be protective of liver health. Funding SourcesN/A.

Effect of curcumin dietary supplementation on growth performance, physiology, carcass characteristics and meat quality in lambs

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of curcumin dietary supplementation on growth, physiology, carcass characteristics and meat quality in lambs. Thirty-two male Lacaune lambs (15.6 ± 0.63 kg, 60 ± 2.8 days of age) were randomly allocated in 16 pens (four treatments of four replicates with two lambs each) for 30 days. The animals were assigned to the following treatments: T0, T100, T200 and T300, representing 0, 100, 200 and 300 mg of curcumin/kg of concentrate, respectively. Curcumin dietary supplementation increased (P = 0.02) weight gain; on regression analysis, 315.1 mg curcumin/kg of concentrate was the dosage that provided the greatest weight gain. T200 and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.04) erythrocytes numbers; T100 and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.01) leukocyte numbers and T300 lambs had lower (P = 0.04) lymphocyte numbers, compared to T0 lambs. Globulin levels were significantly greater in the T200 group (P = 0.04) only on day 15 but not day 30; levels of total protein were significantly higher (P = 0.01) only in T200 and T300 group on day 15 and only in T200 group on d 30. Gamma-glutamyltransferase concentrations tended to be lower (P = 0.08) in T100, T200 and T300 group on d 15, and only in the T100 group on d 30. Curcumin dietary supplementation increased (P = 0.01) the serum activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduced (P = 0.01) levels of reactive oxygen species. In meat samples, T200 and T300 had greater total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.03) and lower (P = 0.01) lipoperoxidation rates. In carcasses, T300 lambs had greater (P ≤ 0.02) cooling weight losses and yields than did T0 lambs. Curcumin dietary supplementation also reduced (P ≤ 0.03) redness and yellowness. T200 and T300 lambs had fewer (P = 0.01) cooking losses and T200 lambs had greater (P = 0.03) water holding capacity than did T0 lambs. These findings suggest that curcumin dietary supplementation improves growth and antioxidant responses, as well as influencing meat quality in lambs.

Trends in Changes of Automatic Milking System Biomarkers and Their Relations with Blood Biochemical Parameters in Fresh Dairy Cows.

The aim or this study was to determine the relationship between non-esterified fatty acids and biomarkers from an automatic milking system (AMS). Fresh dairy cows (n = 102) were selected and milked in Lely Astronaut® A3 milking robots. The rumination time (RT), body weight (BW), milk content and composition parameters, milk fat/protein ratio (F/P), and milk electrical conductivity were registered by the same milking robots. For examining non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), blood samples were acquired from cows in the dry period. According to the NEFA concentrations, all cows were divided into two groups: Group I, with <0.300 mEq/L (n = 66), and Group II, with ≥0.300 mEq/L (n = 36). Albumin (ALB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and cortisol concentrations were also analyzed once a week up to 30 days in milking. The study revealed that the cows in Group I had higher concentrations of ALB, cortisol, and GGT, but the average concentration of AST was lower. In Group 1, the milk F/P was higher, but the milk yield was lower. We hypothesize that biomarkers from AMS could help in the early diagnosis of metabolic diseases after calving or to control negative energy balance before calving.

Prediction of vitality and survival of newborn lambs using a modified Apgar score

The Apgar score is widely used for global evaluation of the neonate in a minimally invasive way, it assesses neonatal vitality through a range of scores on clinical signs of health and vitality, such as reflexes, respiration rate, and mucosal coloration. The neonatal period is fundamental for lambs survival, that is dependent on complex interactions between maternal ability and newborn viability, as newborn lambs require milk and immunological protection that are dependent of mutual maternal-filial behaviour. The aim of this study was to determine the vitality of Suffolk newborn lambs by the modified Apgar method. Thirty-seven ewes were used and their lambs were classified at 5 min of age by the modified Apgar method. The ewes' body condition score, number of lambs born, and birth weight were recorded. Behaviour was evaluated by measuring, in minutes, the intervals between birth and sternal recumbency, the adoption of quadrupedal position, time until first suckling, and duration of first suckling. Blood samples were collected from the lambs between 24 and 36 h of age to determine gamma-glutamyltransferase activity. Of the 37 births observed, 20 were singles and 17 twins, resulting in 54 newborn lambs, which 27 were classified as high, 11 as moderate and 16 as low Apgar, and the percentages of deaths were 8% (n = 1), 10 % (n = 2) and 81.25 % (n = 13), respectively. The causes of death were: starvation-hypoglycemia-hypothermia complex (10/16, 62.5 %), pneumonia (3/16, 18.75 %), and stillbirth (3/16, 18.75 %). The concentration of gamma-glutamyltransferase in the lamb′s serum with low Apgar was significantly (p-value 0.0027) lower (462.4 IU/L) than in lambs born with moderate (1616.8 IU/L) and high (3177.7 IU/L) Apgar. Birth weight (r = 0.39 and p = 0.0015) and APGAR (r = 0.61 and p < 0.0001) were correlated with survival. The vitality evaluation did predict survival ability and passive immunity transfer characteristics.

Zootechnical and health performance of Holstein x Gir crossbred calves.

Crossbreeding is used to increase production and disease resistance in adult animals, and there is no research to assess the performance of animals in the early stages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the zootechnical and health performance of Holstein x Gir calves (½ HG: ½ Dutch ½ Gir and ¾ HG: ¾ Dutch ¼ Gir), from birth to 80 days of age, and compare metabolic parameters between groups. In this sense, calves were monitored for zootechnical parameters; epidemiological indexes such as morbidity, mortality, recurrence of diarrhea, pneumonia, and other diseases; as well as serum concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, total proteins, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, urea, and paraoxonase1 (PON1). ¾ HG calves showed higher morbidity for diarrhea and remained with diarrhea for longer compared to ½ HG calves, and this was reflected in the average daily weight gain until the 42nd day, with ½ HG calves performing better. There were no differences regarding passive immune transfer between groups, as well as no differences in morbidity and mortality from pneumonia. Regarding biochemical analyses, a difference was found only in the concentrations of PON1, which were higher in ¾ HG calves. The findings show that blood degree influences the occurrence and duration of diarrhea, negatively impacting the zootechnical performance of the animals. Crossbreeding bulls with zebu cattle can be an alternative to increase calf resistance and reduce diarrhea, thus lowering economic losses and improving animal performance.

A Real-World Study on the Use of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) in Men Admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital.

BackgroundThis real-world study aimed to investigate the use of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) in men admitted to a psychiatric hospital.Material/MethodsThe AUDIT questionnaire (10 items) was consecutively administered for a period of 3 years to male patients admitted to a psychiatric hospital (n=636). Laboratory blood tests of biochemical parameters were measured as biomarkers of alcohol consumption. Data were evaluated using linear models with mixed effects in the case of continuous dependent variables and logistic regression models with mixed effects in the case of categorical dependent variables.ResultsWe found that 45.3% of the patients had a high risk of alcohol consumption or alcohol dependence and 54.7% had a low risk of alcohol consumption. The ICD-10 diagnoses of alcohol-related disorders (F1x), psychotic disorders (F2x), affective disorders (F3x), neurotic and psychosomatic disorders (F4x) were statistically significantly associated with total AUDIT score (P<0.001). There was a statistically significant association between the total AUDIT score and length of hospitalization (P=0.004) and the incidence of suicidal thoughts (P=0.003). Plasma concentrations of alanine aminotransferase (P=0.005), aspartate aminotransferase (P<0.001), gamma glutamyltransferase (P=0.001), total cholesterol (P=0.027) and mean corpuscular value of erythrocytes (P<0.001) were statistically significantly increased with a higher AUDIT score.ConclusionsThis real-world study showed that the AUDIT questionnaire evaluated the severity of disorders caused by alcohol and their impact on comorbid mental disorders. These results may be helpful in improving targeted interventions in this group of patients.

Evaluation of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) expression in blood neutrophils in beef cattle poisoned by Senecio spp.

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to assess liver damage and interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) blood expression as a consequence of embryonic signaling on maternal recognition of pregnancy in beef cattle presenting natural ingestion of Senecio spp. Epidemiological aspects, as the presence of the plant, associated to gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity can be used as Senecio spp. poisoning diagnosis. Maternal recognition of pregnancy period occurs when the embryo secretes interferon tau (IFNT) to signal its presence to the mother and eventually extend corpus luteum (CL) lifespan. In our study, liver damage was determined by concentration serum GGT, cytological and histopathological examinations. Reproductive status was evaluated by concentration of progesterone, CL diameter and ISG15 mRNA expression on Day 19 following fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Cows were categorized into two groups based on concentration of GGT: Group 1 (GGT&lt;30U/L) and 2 (GGT&gt;31U/L). No difference on body condition scores was observed. All the cows presented liver damage based on cytology and histopathological exams. Cows from the Group 1 had higher pregnancy rate, presenting larger CL diameter and greater concentration of progesterone. Interestingly, ISG15 mRNA expression had no difference between Groups 1 and 2, even presenting difference in pregnancy status. These findings suggest embryonic loss beyond Day 19. It suggests late embryonic mortality may be associated to liver insufficiency. In conclusion, liver injury and/or concentration of GGT does not alter ISG15 expression on blood neutrophils, however cows presenting lower concentration of GGT (&lt;30U/L) had increased pregnancy status. Therefore, the concentration of GGT allow us to screen liver status and foresee a successful pregnancy in beef cattle.

Increased concentration of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase in ischemic stroke patients.

BACKGROUND:Stroke is responsible for the largest proportion of neurological disorders causing a significant morbidity. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) enzyme has an active involvement in atherosclerosis through its role in oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms. Recent evidence suggests that serum GGT is related to the risk and prognosis of cerebrovascular diseases.METHODS:A total of 200 patients (100 with acute ischemic stroke and 100 without stroke) were recruited from various medical wards and medical intensive care unit. Categorical variables were compared between two groups using Chi-squared test and odds ratio (OR). Independent sample t-test was used to see to compare mean GGT level of stroke patients with control.RESULTS:There was no statistical difference with respect to distribution of age groups (χ2 = 1.25, P = 0.741) and gender (χ2 = 2.678, P = 0.1018) between cases and controls. Mean age of stroke patients (mean [M] = 61.7, standard deviation [SD] = 13.8) did not differ from controls (M = 62.2, SD = 13.6), P = 0.80. The odds of suffering from diabetes were significantly higher in stroke patients than cases (OR = 2.25, P = 0.005). Independent sample t-test found a significant difference in serum GGT level between cases (M = 57.47, SD = 11.8) and control (M = 41.72, SD = 7.5), P ≤ 0.0001.CONCLUSIONS:Serum GGT was significantly higher in stroke patients than age-sex-matched nonstroke patients. Association remained significant in stroke patients irrespective of age, gender, and other risk factors. Stroke patients with diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and smoking had higher level serum GGT level than those without these risk factors. Prospective cohort studies can further explore the potential of GGT as a predictor of acute ischemic stroke.

Protective Effects of Delonix regia Leave Extract on Sodium Arsenite-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

Nature provides rich sources of structurally diverse phytochemicals with medicinal relevance and biological activities. Sodium arsenite has been recognized as a worldwide health concern due to its teratogenicity effects on animals. Natural plants are considered as a possible protective agent against arsenic induced toxicity. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of Delonix regia leave extracts on sodium arsenite induced hepatotoxicity in rat. Animals were randomly divided into six groups of five per group. Group A (control) received distilled water for fourteen (14) days. Group B received 2.5 mg/kg body weight Sodium Arsenite, group C received 100 mg/kg of leave extract and 2.5 mg/kg of sodium arsenite, Group D received 400 mg/kg of leave extract and 2.5 mg/kg of sodium arsenite, Group E received 100 mg/kg of leave extract, Group F received 400 mg/kg of leave extract only. On the fourteen day all the animals were sacrificed. Biochemical parameters such as plasma Alanine amino transferase (ALT), Aspartate amino transferase (AST) Alkaline phosphate (ALP) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) total protein (TP) were evaluated. Sodium arsenite in rat triggers significant increase in ALT, AST, ALP, TP, and GGT (p<0.05 level). Upon treatments with Delonix regia leave extract, it decreases the concentration of GGT, AST and ALP compared to the negative control. Group treated with the extract alone showed no adverse effects on the liver parameters. Results from this study suggest that, the administration of Delonix regia leave extract confer some protective effects on the liver.

Almond protects the liver in coronary artery disease: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

To compare the effect of Pakistani and American almonds on serum concentration of liver enzymes in coronary artery disease patients. The randomised controlled trial was conducted at the Cardiology Clinics of Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, from February to July, 2012, and comprised patients who were randomised into intervention PA and AA groups and the control NI groups. Subjects in the intervention groups were provided Pakistani and American varieties of almonds 10g/day respectively with instructions to soak them overnight, remove the skin and eat them before breakfast for 12 weeks. The control group underwent no intervention. Serum concentrations of aspartate transaminase, Alanine transaminase and gamma-glutamyl transferase were analysed and compared. Of the 150 subjects, 110(73.3%) completed the study. Of them, there were 38(34.5%) in PA group, 41(37.3%) in AA, and 31(28.2%) in the NI group. Dietary almonds significantly reduced serum concentrations of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and gamma-glutamyl transferase in the two intervention groups compared to the controls group (p<0.05) at 12-week follow-up. A low dose of almonds was found to be an effective strategy to protect the liver.

Clinical and laboratory signs of haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with pandemic influenza A (H1N1) infection in patients needing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A retrospective observational study.

Severe pandemic influenza has been associated with the hyperinflammatory condition secondary haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). To determine the frequency, degree, character and possible cause of influenza-associated HLH in critically ill patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to influenza A (H1N1) infection requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support at our hospital. A retrospective observational study. Medical data were retrieved retrospectively from 11 consenting patients of thirteen adults infected with pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 requiring ECMO between July 2009 and January 2010 at the ECMO Centre of Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. All patients were evaluated for HLH using HLH-2004 criteria and HScore. Eleven patients (median age 31 years) were included in the study and all survived. All patients showed signs of multiple organ dysfunction and pronounced inflammation, more severe in the four patients with HLH who had significantly higher peak serum concentrations of ferritin (P = 0.024), alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.012) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (P = 0.024), lower concentration of albumin (P = 0.0086) and more frequently hepatomegaly (P = 0.048). Abnormal lymphocyte cytotoxicity (lytic units <10) and a low proportion of natural killer (NK) cells were observed in three of four patients with HLH. Notably, we found a significant inverse correlation between serum ferritin concentration and NK cell and cytotoxic T lymphocyte percentages (rs = -0.74, P = 0.0013 and rs = -0.79, P = 0.0025, respectively). One HLH patient received HLH-directed cytotoxic therapy, another intravenous immunoglobulin and the other two no specific HLH-directed therapy. Critically ill patients, including healthy young adults, with pandemic influenza may develop HLH and should be monitored for signs of hyperinflammation and increasing organ dysfunction, and evaluated promptly for HLH because HLH-directed therapy may then be beneficial. The association of low NK percentages with hyperferritinaemia may suggest a role for reduced NK cell numbers, possibly also cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and subsequently reduced lymphocyte cytotoxicity, in the pathogenesis of hyperinflammation and secondary HLH.

Study of biochemical parameters in farmers exposed to pesticides used in cotton growing around the Bala hippopotamus pond

Repeated exposure to pesticides can cause a variety of human health problems, particularly among farmers. This work consisted in studying biochemical parameters and their evolution in cotton farmers exposed to pesticides. A longitudinal study was conducted during and after the 2018/2019 cotton season on a cohort of cotton farmers around the Bala hippopotamus pond in the department of Satiri. Biochemical parameters were measured during and after the crop year on the Architect ci 4100. The majority of the farmers had high uric acid (UA) and low blood sugar (Gluc) concentrations. A few had concentrations of Cholinesterase (ChE) (6.19%); Direct Bilirubin (BilD) (23.01%); Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) (8.85%); Alkaline Phosphatase (ALkP) (4.42%); Cholesterol (Chol) (4.42%); triglycerides (Trig) (4.42%); aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (4.42%) higher than normal and lower than normal albumin (Alb) (13.27%) and total protein (TP) (13.27%) concentrations. Analysis of the evolution of biochemical parameters showed that none of the producers had higher than normal ChE and TP concentrations. After the campaign, the number of producers with lower than normal values increased for AST, AlkP, Alb and Urea while those with higher than normal values increased for GGT, UA, Gluc, Chol, Trig and BilD. Also, a significant decrease in AST, ALT and creatinine (CreaC) concentrations and a significant increase in GGT and BilD concentrations were observed. The existence of some disturbances of biochemical parameters in farmers should encourage to test the hypothesis of a link between pesticide exposure and the appearance of biochemical disorders in clinical trials.

Prenatal Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances Associated With Increased Susceptibility to Liver Injury in Children.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread and persistent pollutants that have been shown to have hepatotoxic effects in animal models. However, human evidence is scarce. We evaluated how prenatal exposure to PFAS associates with established serum biomarkers of liver injury and alterations in serum metabolome in children. We used data from 1,105 mothers and their children (median age, 8.2years; interquartile range, 6.6-9.1) from the European Human Early-Life Exposome cohort (consisting of six existing population-based birth cohorts in France, Greece, Lithuania, Norway, Spain, and the United Kingdom). We measured concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate, perfluorooctanoate, perfluorononanoate, perfluorohexane sulfonate, and perfluoroundecanoate in maternal blood. We assessed concentrations of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase in child serum. Using Bayesian kernel machine regression, we found that higher exposure to PFAS during pregnancy was associated with higher liver enzyme levels in children. We also measured child serum metabolomics through a targeted assay and found significant perturbations in amino acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism associated with prenatal PFAS. A latent variable analysis identified a profile of children at high risk of liver injury (odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-1.92) that was characterized by high prenatal exposure to PFAS and increased serum levels of branched-chain amino acids (valine, leucine, and isoleucine), aromatic amino acids (tryptophan and phenylalanine), and glycerophospholipids (phosphatidylcholine [PC] aa C36:1 and Lyso-PC a C18:1). Developmental exposure to PFAS can contribute to pediatric liver injury.

Performance and immune response of steers Nellore finished in feedlot and fed diets containing dry leaves of Baccharis dracunculifolia

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of addition Baccharis dracunculifolia leaves in nature on animal performance, feed intake, ingestive behavior, and blood parameters of Nellore steers finished in feedlot on high-grain diets. A total of 40 Nellore steers, with an average body weight of 412.9 ± 22.0 kg were distributed in individual pens, equipped with automatic drinkers and masonry feeders. The steers were randomly assigned to one of four studied diets, therefore the CONT – basal diet; BAC05 – basal diet and inclusion of B. dracunculifolia leaves in natura (5 g/animal/day); BAC10 – basal diet and inclusion of B. dracunculifolia leaves in natura (10 g/animal/day); and BAC15 – basal diet and inclusion of B. dracunculifolia leaves in natura (15 g/animal/day). The use of plants in nature did not affect final body weight, average daily gain, dry matter intake, or feed efficiency. Neither on ingestive behavior activities and plasma concentrations of urea, creatine, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and creatine kinase no effects were detected between diets. The inclusion of plants in nature in steer’s diet did not negatively impact performance and health. However, further field studies with beef cattle are needed for greater clarification of its effects and dosages.

Distinct clinical phenotypes of congestion in acute heart failure: characteristics, treatment response, and outcomes.

AimsPatients with acute heart failure (AHF) are included into clinical trials regardless of differences in baseline clinical characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess patients with AHF according to the presence of central and/or peripheral congestion at hospital admission and evaluate treatment response and outcomes in studied phenotypes.Methods and resultsWe investigated retrospectively 352 patients (mean age: 68 ± 13 years, 77% men) hospitalized due to AHF with the signs of congestion on admission. Patients were divided according to the type of signs of congestion into three groups: A, isolated pulmonary congestion (n = 52, 15%); B, isolated peripheral congestion (n = 31, 9%); and C, signs of mixed (peripheral and central) congestion (n = 269, 76%). Patients from Group A had lower concentration of urea, bilirubin, and gamma‐glutamyl transferase whereas higher level of haematocrit, albumin, and leukocytes on admission. The highest baseline N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide level (median: 4113 vs. 3634 vs. 6093 pg/mL) and percentage of patients with chronic heart failure (56 vs. 58 vs. 74%; A vs. B. vs. C, respectively, all P < 0.01) were observed in Group C. There were no differences in terms of demographics, co‐morbidities, left ventricular ejection fraction, and applied treatment between studied groups. Patients from Group A had the highest systolic blood pressure on admission (145 ± 37 vs. 122 ± 20 vs. 130 ± 29 mmHg) and the biggest decrease in systolic blood pressure [−22 (−45 to −4) vs. −2 (−13 to 2) vs. −10 (−25 to 0) mmHg] and heart rate [−16 (−35 to −1.5) vs. −1 (−10 to 5) vs. −7 (−20 to 0) b.p.m.] with the lowest weight change [−1.0 (−1.0 to 0) vs. −2.9 (−3.8 to −0.9) vs. −2.0 (−3.0 to −1.0) kg; all P < 0.01] after 48 h of hospitalization. There were differences in short‐term and long‐term outcomes with favourable results in Group A. Group A experienced less frequent in‐hospital heart failure worsening during the first 48 h (4 vs. 23 vs. 7%), had shorter length of hospital stay [6 (5–8) vs. 7 (5–11) vs. 7 (6–11) days], and had lower 1 year all‐cause mortality (12 vs. 28 vs. 29%; all P < 0.05). Presence of peripheral congestion on admission was independent predictor for all‐cause mortality within 1 year [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.68 (1.06–6.79); P = 0.04].ConclusionsPatterns of congestion in AHF are associated with differences in clinical characteristics, treatment response, and outcomes. It needs to be considered once planning clinical trials in AHF.

Inflammatory Correlated Response in Two Lines of Rabbit Selected Divergently for Litter Size Environmental Variability.

Simple SummaryAnimal welfare is a priority objective for the livestock industry. Litter size environmental variability has been related to environmental sensitivity. A divergent selection experiment for environmental variance of litter size variance was carried out successfully in rabbits over thirteen generations. The low line showed a lower inflammatory response and susceptibility to infectious disorders than the high line. In conclusion, the decrease of environmental sensitivity seems to increase the adaptation of the animal to the environment, and thus, its welfare.A divergent selection experiment for environmental variance of litter size variance was carried out in rabbits over thirteen generations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inflammatory response in the two lines of the experiment, in order to analyse the effect of selection on susceptibility to diseases after challenging to stressful situations, such as 24 h after the first delivery. A total of 78 females were used in this study, 39 from each line. The line selected for litter size heterogeneity (the high line) showed lower white blood leukocyte count (WBC; −0.87 × 103/µL), lower percentage of basophils (−0.11%), higher concentration of TNF-α (+13.8 pg/mL), and greater concentration of CRP (+38.1 µg/mL) than the line selected for litter size homogeneity (the low line). The high line had also higher concentrations of bilirubin, cholesterol, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) compared to the low line (difference between lines were +0.08 µmol/L, +0.14 µmol/L, +0.35 U/L and +2.4 U/L, respectively). The high line showed higher inflammatory response than the low line, in accordance with a larger susceptibility to infectious disorders. In conclusion, the line selected to increase litter size environmental variability seems to have poor capacity coping with environmental stressors. Therefore, selection for litter size environmental variability can be a useful way to improve animal welfare.