General Pathological Changes Research Articles

Tanshinone IIA is superior to paricalcitol in ameliorating tubulointerstitial fibrosis through regulation of VDR/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in rats with diabetic nephropathy

Glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis (TIF) are closely involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Moreover, the development of TIF is closely related to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Tanshinone IIA (Tan) has various pharmacological effects, especially the anti-fibrotic effect. And it is mainly used in the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Currently, the protective effect of Tan on DN and its possible mechanism have not been clearly elucidated. Our previous studies illustrated that Tan could improve the EMT of HK-2 cells induced by high glucose by regulating the vitamin D receptor (VDR)/Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we collected demographic information and laboratory results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database in order to investigate the relationship between VD and DN. Then, we established a DN model and treated DN rats with Tan and paricalcitol (Par) for 6 weeks. We subsequently compared the changes in general condition, renal function, pathological changes, and TIF-related protein expression levels of control rats, DN rats induced by STZ, DN rats with Tan at 5.4 mg/kg, DN rats with Tan at 10.8 mg/kg, and DN rats with Par at 0.054 µg/kg, to explore the effect and mechanism of Tan and Par on DN rats. The results showed that VD had a protective effect against DN in diabetic patients. And we found that Tan had a protective effect on renal fibrosis in DN rats, which was superior to Par in improving the symptoms of “three more and one less,” reducing fasting blood glucose level, improving renal index, BUN/SCr, and UACR, reducing histopathological damage of kidney, and improving the expression of fibrosis-related proteins in kidney tissue by regulating VDR/Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Tan was superior to Par in ameliorating tubulointerstitial fibrosis by regulating VDR/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in rats with diabetic nephropathy.

Cranial Nerves: Anatomy and Imaging

Twelve pairs of cranial nerves control the sensory and motor functions of the head and neck region, with exception of the tenth nerve, the vagus nerve which also is responsible for the parasympathetic and viscerosensory innervation of the thoracoabdominal organs. MRI is the cornerstone in the study of cranial nerves. Next to the traditional sequences that depict general anatomical findings and pathological changes, two additional sequences should be included in every imaging protocol for cranial nerves. High-resolution steady-state free precession is important for the visualization of the cisternal courses of the cranial nerves. These sequences have a high spatial resolution and additionally show dark cranial nerves against a background of bright CSF. Three-dimensional T1-weighted GE sequences, preferentially with fat suppression, provide a good evaluation of nerve enhancement. The twelve cranial nerves are individually discussed from the intra-axial segments to the distal extracranial branches. There is a specific emphasis on the connections between different cranial nerves. Finally, new imaging techniques are highlighted.

A Study on the Time-Effect and Dose-Effect Relationships of Polysaccharide from Opuntia dillenii against Cadmium-Induced Liver Injury in Mice.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Opuntia dillenii (Ker-Gaw) Haw. polysaccharide (ODP) against cadmium-induced liver injury. Cadmium chloride (CdCl2) was used to construct a mice evaluation model, and the indicators chosen included general signs, liver index, biochemical indicators, blood indicators, and pathological changes. A dose of 200 mg/kg ODP was applied to the mice exposed to cadmium for different lengths of time (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days). The results showed that CdCl2 intervention led to slow weight growth (reduced by 13–20%); liver enlargement; significantly increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST, 45.6–52.0%), alanine aminotransferase (ALT, 26.6–31.3%), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP, 38.2–43.1%) levels; and significantly decreased hemoglobin (HGB, 13.1–15.2%), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH, 16.5–19.3%), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations (MCHC, 8.0–12.7%) (p < 0.01). In addition, it led to pathological features such as liver cell swelling, nuclear exposure, central venous congestion, apoptosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration. The onset of ODP anti-cadmium-induced liver injury occurred within 7 days after administration, and the efficacy reached the highest level after continuous administration for 14 days, a trend that could continue until 35 days. Different doses (50, 100, 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg) of ODP have a certain degree of protective effect on cadmium-induced liver injury, showing a good dose–effect relationship. After 28 days of administration of a 200 mg/kg dose, all pathological indicators were close to normal values. These findings indicated that ODP had positive activity against cadmium-induced liver injury and excellent potential for use as a health food or therapeutic drug.

Forensic Analysis of Sudden Death Associated with Sexual Activity.

To analyze the characteristics of sudden death associated with sexual activity to provide recommendations for forensic identification. A retrospective analysis was conducted on autopsy cases accepted by Forensic Identification Center of Huazhong University of Science and Technology from 1998 to 2018, and a total of 15 cases of sudden death associated with sexual activity were screened out. The general information, case data and pathological changes of 15 cases were collected to find the relationship between sexual activity and sudden death. The ratio of male to female was 1.5∶1. The average age of males was 50.1 years and that of females was 35.0 years. Coronary artery diseases and brain diseases accounted for most of the cases (12/15). Sexual partners were associated with locations of deaths and body dumping behaviors. Sudden death associated with sexual activity, although rare, may occur in people over 30 years old with pre-existing heart or brain diseases, which should be paid attention to in forensic practice.

Exploring the Mechanism of Berberine Intervention in Ulcerative Colitis from the Perspective of Inflammation and Immunity Based on Systemic Pharmacology.

Background Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic nonspecific inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum. Recent studies found that berberine had effects on inflammatory diseases and immune diseases. Methods The PharmMapper database was used to predict the berberine potential target and GeneCards database and OMIM database were utilized to collect UC genes. The Cytoscape software was used to construct and analyze the networks and DAVID was utilized to perform enrichment analysis. Then, animal experiments were performed to validate the prediction results. The experimental rats were randomly divided into normal group (control group), model group, and berberine group. The general condition, body weight, gross morphology of colon tissue, and colonic mucosal damage index (CMDI) score were observed. The pathological changes of colon tissue were observed by H&E staining. The levels of serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-4 were detected by ELISA. The expressions of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-4 protein in colon tissue were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results A total of 211 Berberine's potential targets and 210 UC genes were obtained. The enrichment analysis showed that berberine may regulate inflammation, inflammatory cytokines, and their mediated inflammation signal pathways such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, TNF, T cell receptor, Toll-like receptor, and JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Compared with the model group, the body mass of rats in the berberine group was significantly increased (P < 0.05); the general morphology and pathological changes of colon tissue were significantly improved; CMDI score, serum and colon tissue IL-1β, TNF-α content, and protein expression were decreased significantly (P < 0.05); and IL-4 content and protein expression increased significantly (P < 0.05). Conclusion Berberine can interfere with UC through related biological processes and signal pathways related to inflammation and immunity. In-depth exploration of the mechanism of berberine in the treatment of UC will provide a basis for clinical application.

Establishment and evaluation of acute diquat poisoning model in Wistar rats

Objective: To establish the Wistar rat model of acute diquat poisoning and observe the pathological damage of main target organs. Methods: Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n=6) , including one normal saline control group and five treatment groups which were separately given single-dose of intragastric administration at the doses of 46.2 mg/kg, 77.0 mg/kg, 115.5 mg/kg, 231.0 mg/kg and 346.5 mg/kg. The pathological changes of lung, liver and kidney were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson staining. The optimal dose was determined according to the general situation and pathological changes. Thirty-six Wistar rats were randomly divided into five treatment groups and one normal saline control group. Treatment groups were given single-dose of intragastric administration according to the optimal dose. The rats were sacrificed at 1st, 3rd, 7th, 11th and 14th day after exposed, respectively. The activity of serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (ALT) and glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase (AST) were measured by chemical colorimetry. The pathological changes of lung, liver and kidney were observed by HE and Masson staining. Results: According to 14 d survival rate, the toxic symptoms and pathological changes, 115.50 mg/kg was determined the best dose. Given single-dose of intragastric administration at the doses of 115.50 mg/kg, it was found that the serum AST and ALT activity of rats on the first and third day of exposure was significant higher than those in control group. The results of pathological examination exhibited that in 115.50 mg/kg group, the pathological changes of lung, liver and kidney began to appear on the first day of exposure, the pathological changes were the most serious on the third day, and then gradually alleviated. On the 14th day, the alveolar septum was slightly widened, with inflammatory cell infiltration, local alveolar cavity became narrow, atrophy, peripheral alveolar compensation, bronchi and alveolar septum collagen fiber proliferation; The local renal tubular epithelial cells were enlarged and necrotic; the central vein surrounding hepatic cells showed vacuolar degeneration with punctate necrosis. Conclusion: The rat model of acute diquat poisoning can be successfully induced by single-dose of intragastric administration. The condition of wistar rats and the pathological damage of the main target organs could be observed during the whole course of 115.50 mg/kg administration.

Clinical and Laboratory Efficacy and Safety of ValeVita Rinogel Spray and Nazo-Vit Use in Treatment of Children with Acute Postvirus Rhinosinusitis

The objective: to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapeutic effect, the overall and local tolerance of ValeVita Rinogel Spray and ValeVita Nazo-Vit in treatment of children with acute postvirus rhinosinusitis (APRS).Materials and methods. The clinical study included 30 children (17 boys and 13 girls) who were on an outpatient treatment in ENT department of the city’s Children’s Clinical Hospital №1 in Kyiv. The age of patients ranged from 8 to 15 years old (mean age 11.5±0.5 years old). The main group of children (n=15) used ValeVita Rinogel Spray and ValeVita Nazo-Vit; the control group (n=15) used nasal decongestants (xylometazoline) and sodium chloride 0.9%. In children of both observed groups there were evaluated clinical symptoms of APRS, microbiological and cytomorphological studies of the nasal mucosa before and after the treatment.Results. According to the analysis of rhinoscopic and endoscopic examination there was a more rapid regress of clinical symptoms of APRS in children of the main group compared with the control group. Cytomorphological study in the main group noted a significant decrease of inflammatory cells (eosinophils, neutrophil granulocytes, lymphocytes) in nasal mucosa of children with APRS during treatment period compared with children of the control group. Combined use of ValeVita Rinogel Spray and ValeVita Nazo-Vit in the main group promoted normalization of immune clearance of nasal mucous lining as manifested by decrease of pathogenic organisms compared with the control group. During observation time no complications, side effects associated with the use of ValeVita Rinogel Spray and ValeVita Nazo-Vit were noted in patients.Conclusion. Combination of ValeVita Rinogel Spray and ValeVita Nazo-Vit is effective and safe in the treatment of acute postvirus rhinosinusitis in children 8-15 years old, does not cause local and general pathological changes, as evidenced by performed clinical and laboratory examination of patients.

The expression of microRNA-155 and 127 in the neonatal SD rats with acute lung injury induced by lipopolysaccharide

Aim: This study was to observe the changes of the gene expression of microRNA-155 and 127 in the neonatal rats with Acute Lung Injury (ALI). Methods: Eighty neonatal SD rats were randomly divided into experimental groups (intraperitoneal injection with LPS, n=60) and control (intraperitoneal injection with NS, n=20). Neonatal rats in experimental groups (LPS 1 mg, 2 mg and 3 mg group, n=20) were received corresponding dose of LPS (1, 2 and 3 mg/kg, diluted with saline to 0.2 ml), while neonatal rats in control group were injected 0.2 ml saline respectively. Then we killed rats at 1 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h respectively in each group. The lung general pathological changes were observed. The expression of microRNA-155 and 127 were detected by semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and Interleukelin-6 (IL-6) in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid (BALF) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of TNF-α and IL-6 protein in lung tissue were detected by western blotting. Results: The expression of microRNA-155 was up-regulated in the tissues and BALF in a dose and timedependent manner and microRNA-127 down-regulated. The difference were statistically significant when compared with the control group (all P<0.05). The TNF-α and IL-6 level of BALF rats with ALI in LPS groups were increased compared with the control group in a dose-dependent manner (all P<0.05). A similar trend had been seen in TNF-α and IL-6 protein level of lung tissues, the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: The expression of microRNA-155 and 127 are associated with severity of the ALI in a dose and time-dependent manner, and they might be considered as potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of ALI.

Effect of intravenous immunoglobulin on the function of Treg cells derived from immunosuppressed mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia.

AimThe present study aimed to investigate the effect of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) on regulatory T (Treg) cells derived from immunosuppressed mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) pneumonia.MethodsA total of 108 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into the following groups: control group (Control), immunosuppressed group (IS), PA pneumonia group (PA), PA pneumonia in immunosuppressed group (IS + PA), PA pneumonia with IVIG treatment in immunocompetent group (PA + IVIG) and PA pneumonia with IVIG treatment in immunosuppressed group (IS + PA + IVIG). Each group comprised 18 mice. The combined PA pneumonia in immunosuppressed model and the treatment models were established. The mice in each group were sacrificed at 4, 8, and 24 h time points. The general condition and pathological changes in the lung tissues of the mice were monitored. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) mRNA relative expression level in the lung tissues. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the serum concentration of active transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β).ResultsNo inflammatory response were exhibited in the lung tissues of the mice in Control group and IS group, while varying degrees of acute lung injury were revealed in the mice in PA group, IS + PA group, PA + IVIG group and IS + PA + IVIG group. Lung tissue injury was most apparent at the 8 h time point, and it indicated the greatest effect in IS + PA group. Whereas tissue damages were alleviated in PA + IVIG group and IS + PA + IVIG group compared with IS + PA group. In addition, tissue damage lessened in PA + IVIG group compared with PA group and IS + PA + IVIG group. FOXP3 mRNA expression levels in the lung tissues and the serum concentration of TGF-β were lower in IS group, PA group, IS + PA group and IS + PA + IVIG group at the 4, 8 and 24 h time points, respectively compared with Control group. FOXP3 mRNA expression levels decreased in PA + IVIG group at the 4h time point and TGF-β serum concentrations decreased at the 4 and 8h time points compared with Control group, and subsequently increased.ConclusionsIn the immunosuppred model with PA pneumonia, the immune system was greatly compromised. IVIG partially restored the immunosuppressed functions of Treg cells, suppressed the overactivated immune system and ameliorated the development of the disease.

Human case of visceral larva migrans syndrome: pulmonary and hepatic involvement

SummaryVisceral Larva Migrans (VLM) syndrome is commonly caused by larvae of roundwormsToxocara canisorToxocara cati. Human toxocarosis is a soil-transmitted zoonosis, which may result in partial or general pathological changes in host tissues. We reported a case of 14-year-old boy presented with severe dry cough without dyspnea, mild chest and abdominal pain with general fatigue. Examination of peripheral blood showed marked increase in eosinophils. The chest radiography showed an infiltrative shadow in the lung fields. Chest CT demonstrated multiple opacities in both lungs. Abdominal CT showed multiple low attenuation areas in the liver. Ultrasound guided liver biopsy revealed granulomas with severe eosinophilic infiltration. The boy was treated with albendazole and responded radically. It is worth mentioning that this is the first case of hepato-pulmonary VLM syndrome in Egypt.

Atomized paclitaxel liposome inhalation treatment of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats.

We sought to determine the efficacy of atomized paclitaxel liposome inhalation treatment of pulmonary fibrosis in a bleomycin-induced rat model. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: healthy control, pulmonary fibrosis without treatment, paclitaxel liposome inhalation-treated, and intravenous paclitaxel liposome-treated. Fibrosis was induced by bleomycin injection. A total of 20 mg/kg paclitaxel liposome was administered by inhalation every other day for a total of 10 doses. The intravenous group received 5 mg/kg paclitaxel liposome on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. We observed the general condition, weight change, survival index, and pathological changes in the lung tissue of the rats. Quantitative analysis of collagen types I and III and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 expression in the lungs was also performed. The paclitaxel liposome inhalation and intravenous delivery methods improved survival index and pulmonary fibrosis Ashcroft score, and decreased the thickness of the alveolar interval. No obvious difference was found between the two groups. Compared with the untreated group, paclitaxel liposome inhalation and intravenous injection significantly reduced the levels of collagen types I and III and TGF-β1 expression equally. In conclusion, atomized paclitaxel liposome inhalation protects against severe pulmonary fibrosis in a bleomycin-induced rat model. This delivery method has less systemic side effects and increased safety over intravenous injection.

Distribution of DNA adducts and corresponding tissue damage of Sprague-Dawley rats with percutaneous exposure to sulfur mustard.

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a highly reactive alkylation vesicant and cytotoxic agent that has been recognized as an animal and human carcinogen. Although the exact mechanism of toxicology is vague, DNA alkylation seems to be responsible for the triggering of apoptosis. In this study, after male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were cutaneous exposed to a low concentration of SM at parts-per-million levels, their lungs, livers, pancreases, spleens, marrow, and brains were collected at 11 different time points and analyzed. N7-[2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)thio]-ethyl]guanine (N7-HETEG), N3-[2-[(2-hydroxyethyl)thio]-ethyl]adenine (N3-HETEA), and bis[2-(guanin-7-yl)ethyl]sulfide (Bis-G) as the biomarkers for DNA damage were measured in the vital tissues by isotope dilution ultraperformance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (ID-UPLC-MS/MS). At the same time, general variations and pathological changes were monitored and detected to evaluate the tissue damage. Time- and dose-dependent data showed that SM had strong permeability and reactivity and that three SM-DNA adducts were detected in all investigated tissues only after 10 min after exposure. Obvious dose-dependency was observed except in the brain and pancreas. Most times to peak (tmax) of all three adducts were less than 3 h, while half-lifetimes (t1/2) were less than 24 h. We also suggested that the lipophilic SM can easily pass through the blood-brain barrier and can be stored in the fatty organs. To the best of our knowledge, the abundant adducts in marrow were found and reported for the first time. The surveillance of N7-HETEG in vivo, which was the most abundant adduct, may be the most efficient indicator to validate SM exposure even without any symptoms. Bis-G can be regarded as a biomarker of effect, which is directly related to the extent of damage. The most abundant Bis-G was found in the most sensitive tissues, marrow, spleen, and lung, which is in good accordance with histopathologic results. General variations and pathological changes were evaluated as well. After cutaneous exposure to SM, the body weights of rats heavily decreased in the first 4 days and were inversely proportional to the applied doses, and then recovered at the last experimental day except for those of the rats at the highest dosing level, in which the relative weights of rat spleens were obviously lost. Moreover, we found remarkable histological changes of the lung and skin, such as encephalemia, at the very beginning of the sampling procedure, and plentiful mononuclear cells in marrow appeared 6 h after exposure. The micronucleus test of marrow cells showed that the micronucleus rate had a positively dose-dependent effect.

Normal haematological and blood biochemistry values of cultured Heteroclarias hybrid in South East Nigeria

This study investigated the normal haematological and blood biochemistry profile of apparently healthy cultured hybrid catfish Heteroclarias reared in concrete ponds in South East Nigeria. A total of 20 fish of two age ranges and equal sexes were used, and determination of haematological and blood biochemistry profile followed standard procedures. Results obtained for the parameters assessed for the young adults and adults respectively are summarized as follows (mean ± standard error): packed cell volume, 32.50 ± 1.10 and 37.33 ± 0.75 %; haemoglobin concentration, 11.81 ± 0.45 and 13.00 ± 0.21 g/dl; red blood cell count, 3.14 ± 0.07 × 106 and 3.09 ± 0.07 × 106/μl; mean corpuscular volume, 103.44 ± 3.13 and 122.82 ± 3.97 fl; mean corpuscular haemoglobin, 37.65 ± 1.50 and 42.35 ± 1.47 pg; mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, 37.11 ± 1.12 and 33.97 ± 0.47 g/dl; white blood cell count, 18.39 ± 1.04 × 103 and 20.92 ± 0.67 × 103/μl; alanine amino transferase, 30.90 ± 0.18 and 38.17 ± 0.16 IU; aspartate amino transferase, 54.20 ± 0.22 and 50.29 ± 0.25 IU; alkaline phosphatase, 5.00 ± 0.54 and 9.55 ± 0.74 IU; total proteins, 2.20 ± 0.07 and 4.05 ± 0.10 g/dl; albumin, 0.96 ± 0.03 and 1.38 ± 0.04 g/dl; globulin, 1.22 ± 0.07 and 2.70 ± 0.10 g/dl; plasma blood glucose, 94.17 ± 8.16 and 175.89 ± 10.38 mg/dl; total cholesterol, 85.33 ± 4.34 and 153.14 ± 8.63 mg/dl; calcium, 4.80 ± 0.48 and 11.64 ± 0.41 mg/dl; blood urea nitrogen, 1.24 ± 0.27 and 1.03 ± 0.13 mg/dl; and body weight, 287.50 ± 8.18 and 711.11 ± 36.11 g. Results obtained showed significantly higher (p 0.05) due to sex in all the haematological and blood biochemistry parameters assessed. Data generated from this study was considered important as deviations in the normal haematology and blood biochemistry values have a predictive value for general pathological and specific organ changes in the body.

Effects of long-term application of metoprolol and propranolol in a rat model of smoking.

Beta-blockers, especially selective β1 -adrenoceptor antagonists, are often used to treat cardiovascular disease, even when complicated by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The association of beta-blocker selectivity and treatment effects is disputed, and the curative effects and side-effects of various antagonists may differ. Herein we investigated the effects of 1months treatment with the selective β1 -adrenoceptor antagonist metoprolol and the non-selective β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol on pulmonary function and pathology in a 4-month rat model of passive cigarette smoke exposure and explored potential mechanisms of action. Lung function and general pathological changes were evaluated after 4months exposure to cigarette smoke, with metoprolol and propranolol treatment (50 and 25mg/kg per day, respectively; intragastrically) during the last month. Cytokine and mucin levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were determined by ELISA, whereas β1 - and β2 -adrenoceptor expression in the lungs was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Chronic treatment with metoprolol and propranolol did not exacerbate peak expiratory flow or intra-airway pressure in rats exposed to cigarette smoke. Propranolol significantly attenuated inflammatory cell infiltration, cytokine levels (tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-8) in BALF or mucus secretion, whereas metoprolol reduced only smooth muscle proliferation. Moreover, propranolol treatment was associated (albeit not significantly) with restoring β2 -adrenoceptor expression in airway epithelia. Propranolol had a more beneficial effect on cigarette smoking-induced lung damage than metoprolol in a smoking rat model that may be associated with restoration of endogenous β2 -adrenoceptor density in the airway epithelial cells.

Normal haematological values of African Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

This study evaluated the normal haematological profile of apparently healthy African grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) trapped in Nsukka, Southeast Nigeria. A total of 20 squirrels comprising 8 males and 12 females were used and determination of haematological profile followed standard procedures. Results obtained for the parameters assessed are summarized as follows (mean ± standard error): packed cell volume, 37.54 ± 0.76 %; haemoglobin concentration, 14.79 ± 0.18 g/dl; red blood cell count, 7.27 ± 0.27 × 106/μl; mean corpuscular volume, 54.33 ± 1.09 fl; mean corpuscular haemoglobin, 21.74 ± 0.55 pg; mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, 37.39 ± 0.50 g/dl; white blood cell count, 4.77 ± 0.19 × 103/μl; neutrophil counts, 27.93 ± 1.36 %; lymphocyte counts, 67.80 ± 1.38 %; monocyte counts, 2.33 ± 0.29 %; eosinophil counts, 1.80 ± 0.26 %; basophil counts, 0.13 ± 0.09 % and body weight, 176.67 ± 3.55 g. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the sexes in all the haematological parameters assessed. Results from this study was considered important as deviations in the normal haematology have a predictive value for general pathological changes in the body and may be useful in wildlife quarantine services and in active disease surveillance.

Normal haematological and serum biochemistry values of African hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)

This study evaluated the normal haematological and serum biochemistry profile of apparently healthy African hedgehogs caught in Sokoto, North West Nigeria. A total of 23 hedgehogs including 8 males and 15 females were used and determination of haematological and serum biochemistry profile followed standard procedures. Results obtained for the parameters assessed are summarized as follows (Mean ± standard error): Packed cell volume −41.95 ± 0.93 %, haemoglobin concentration −13.09 ± 0.26 g/dl, red blood cell count −5.01 ± 0.13 × 106/μl, mean corpuscular volume −87.79 ± 1.81 fl, mean corpuscular haemoglobin −27.11 ± 0.68 pg, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration −30.91 ± 0.46 g/dl, white blood cell count −15.04 ± 0.70 × 103/μl, neutrophil counts −9.45 ± 0.53 × 103/μl, lymphocyte counts −5.16 ± 0.44 × 103/μl, monocyte counts −0.21 ± 0.05 × 103/μl, eosinophil counts −0.15 ± 0.03 × 103/μl, basophil counts −0.06 ± 0.02 × 103/μl, alanine amino transaminase −22.80 ± 1.44 IU, aspartate amino transaminase −33.52 ± 3.49 IU, alkaline phosphatase −22.43 ± 0.95 IU, total proteins −5.98 ± 0.23 g/dl, albumin −3.43 ± 0.15 g/dl, globulin −2.63 ± 0.23 g/dl, fasting blood glucose −86.05 ± 4.65 mg/dl, total cholesterol −132.50 ± 5.34 mg/dl, triglycerides −37.84 ± 2.27 mg/dl, calcium −9.68 ± 0.28 mg/dl, blood urea nitrogen −47.13 ± 2.29 mg/dl, creatinine −0.67 ± 0.08 mg/dl and body weight −189.65 ± 13.19 g. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the sexes in all the haematological and clinical chemistry parameters assessed. Data generated from this study was considered important as deviations in the normal haematology and serum biochemistry have a predictive value for general and specific pathological changes in the body and organs, respectively.

Effect of Sanqi Oral Liquid (三芪口服液) on the expressions of CD4+, CD8+ and CD68+ cells in 5/6 nephrectomized rats with chronic renal failure

To explore the mechanisms of Chinese herbal medicine Sanqi Oral Liquid, composed of Astragalus membranaceus and Panpax notoginseng, in alleviating renal injury by observing its effect on the expressions of CD4(+), CD8(+) and CD68(+) cells in 5/6 nephrectomized rats with chronic renal failure. A total of 102 SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: three treatment groups were administrated with high, medium and low dosage of Sanqi Oral Liquid respectively by gavage; a normal group, a 5/6 nephrectomized model group, and a group treated with coated aldehyde oxygenstarch were used as controls. Following oral administration of Sanqi Oral Liquid for 12 weeks, the general condition and renal pathological changes were observed, and the renal function, platelet count (PLT) and the expressions of CD4(+), CD8(+) and CD68(+) cells were determined for each group. There were proliferation of mesangial matrix, renaltubularnecrosis and obvious tubulointerstitial fibrosis in the model group, and they were much milder in the treatment groups. Compared with the model group, the amounts of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr) and PLT in the treatment groups decreased (P<0.05 for all); and in the group administrated of medium dosage of Sanqi Oral Liquid, the expression of CD4(+) cells was up-regulated and those of CD8(+) and CD68(+) cells were down-regulated (P<0.05 for all), leading to an increased ratio of CD4(+)/CD8(+)(P<0.01). Sanqi Oral Liquid has a significant effect on regulating lymphocyte subsets, reducing the infiltration of macrophages in renal tissues and alleviating tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and this may be one of mechanisms of Sanqi Oral Liquid in delaying the progression of chronic kidney diseases.

Visceral larva migrans associated with earthworm and gecko ingestion: a case report

IntroductionVisceral larva migrans is a syndrome caused by an infection with larval helminths, which may result in partial or general pathological changes in host tissues. Due to the difficulty in finding the causative parasites, the diagnosis of visceral larva migrans is generally based on compatible clinical signs, epidemic history, marked eosinophilia and pathological examination, especially positive serological test results and the disappearance of symptoms after specific treatment.Case presentationWe report here the case of a 21-year-old Chinese man who, having ingested living earthworms and geckos at a witch’s suggestion, presented with fatigue and wordlessness lasting for one year along with elevated transaminase levels for one month. Clinical examination showed eosinophilia, elevated transaminase levels, nodular lesions in his liver and typical pathological characteristics of hepatic visceral larva migrans. After four courses of anthelmintic therapy, our patient presented with sustaining improvement of clinical manifestations and normalization of laboratory data.ConclusionsBecause of the difficulty in making a definite diagnosis, anthelmintic therapy should be performed in patients with a suspected diagnosis of visceral larva migrans based on their epidemic history and presence of typical manifestations, especially when the serological test results are negative. Furthermore, patients with severe parasite infection may require multiple anthelmintic therapies in order to eliminate the parasites.

The blood picture and serum biochemistry profile of the African pied crow (Corvus albus)

The crow is commonly regarded as an indicator species for the surveillance of important diseases such as West Nile fever and avian influenza, as these diseases had been associated with significant pathology in crows and death of crows in most cases. This study evaluated the blood picture (haematology) and serum biochemistry profile of apparently healthy African pied crows trapped in Nsukka, Eastern Nigeria. A total of 25 crows were used for the study, and the evaluation of the blood picture and serum biochemistry profile followed standard procedures. Results obtained for the parameters assessed are summarised as follows (mean ± standard error): packed cell volume (%)—42.85 ± 0.90, haemoglobin concentration (g/dl)—14.09 ± 0.36, red blood cell count (106/ul)—3.15 ± 0.09, mean corpuscular volume (fl)—137.53 ± 4.00, mean corpuscular haemoglobin (pg)—45.36 ± 1.68, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (g/dl)—33.01 ± 0.82, total white blood cell count (103/ul)—26.04 ± 1.35, heterophil counts (%)—67.99 ± 1.85, lymphocyte counts (%)—28.52 ± 1.85, monocyte counts (%)—1.28 ± 0.21, eosinophil counts (%)—1.59 ± 0.21, basophil counts (%)—0.36 ± 0.11, alanine amino transaminase (IU/l)—51.16 ± 5.00, aspartate amino transaminase (IU/l)—101.42 ± 3.63, serum alkaline phosphatase (IU/l)—31.34 ± 3.35, total protein (g/dl)—3.13 ± 0.13, albumin (g/dl)—1.32 ± 0.08, globulin (g/dl)—1.81 ± 0.14, cholesterol (mg/dl)—165.95 ± 6.63, blood glucose (mg/dl)—295.22 ± 11.20, urea nitrogen (mg/dl)—6.71 ± 0.63, uric acid (mg/dl)—21.44 ± 3.51 and body weight (g)—453.41 ± 9.30. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the sexes in all the haematological and serum biochemistry parameters assessed, but the mean body weight of the males was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of the females. Data generated from this study was considered important as deviations in the normal/reference blood picture/haematology and serum biochemistry profile have a predictive value for general pathological changes in the body and in some cases specific organ damage.

Ultrasonographic bedside evaluation of maxillary sinus disease in mechanically ventilated patients.

Evaluate A-mode ultrasonographic examination of maxillary sinus disease in mechanically ventilated, critically ill patients using sinoscopy as criterion standard. Prospective case series. The intensive care units of a tertiary care hospital. 25 mechanically ventilated, critically ill patients with nasotracheal intubation or a tracheotomy were followed up by ultrasonographic examination of the maxillary sinuses in supine and semirecumbent positions. Infectious sinusitis was suspected in 15 patients, who were bilaterally sinoscoped combined with sampling for bacterial culture. The frequency of oedema and/or secretions was high: 29 antra of 30 examined. Only 2 of 30 antra showed bacterial infection. Ultrasonographic examinations were sensitive to general pathological changes but less accurate in specific diagnostics such as the presence of secretions (sensitivity for fluid 75%, oedema 81%). The sensitivity of ultrasonographic diagnosis improved when the examination was made in the semirecumbent position (sensitivity for fluid 91%, oedema 81%). A-mode ultrasonography is a useful method for daily use, being easy to perform and without discomfort to the patient. It is fast and gives an immediate diagnosis. In intensive care unit patients, it should be the method of choice for day-to-day studies of effects and changes in the upper airways. For the differential diagnosis of oedema and/or secretions, it is not reliable enough to be used as the sole diagnostic method. A complementary investigation, such as computed tomography or sinoscopy, which also provides the opportunity to take samples, is needed for diagnostic confidence.