LP Group Research Articles

Effects of different protein levels on growth performance and stress parameters in beef calves under heat stress

This study investigated the effects of dietary protein levels under various heat stress (HS) conditions on the growth performance and stress parameters in Korean native beef calves. Male calves (n = 40; initial BW = 202.2 ± 3.31 kg) were randomly assigned to climatic-controlled chambers with 3 × 3 factorial arrangements. Calves were assigned into three dietary protein levels (low protein; LP = 12.5%, medium protein; MP = 15%, and high protein; HP = 17.5%) and three HS levels [mild: temperature-humidity index (THI) = 74 to 76, moderate: THI = 81 to 83, and severe: THI = 89 to 91] with control (threshold: THI = 70 to 73 and dietary protein level 12.5%). The calves were subjected to ambient temperature (22 °C) for 7 days and subsequently to the temperature and humidity corresponding to the target THI level for 21 days. The data were analyzed using the repeated-measures analysis by the GLM procedure of SAS. As a result, average daily gain (ADG) was decreased (P < 0.05) under severe HS level compared to the mild and moderate HS stress levels. However, HP increased ADG (P < 0.05) than moderate levels (LP) and severe levels (LP and MP). Under different HS levels (mild, moderate, and severe), HR, RT, and blood cortisol were increased (P < 0.05) compared to a threshold level, but no differences were observed in the parameters among various protein levels. Varied HS levels decreased the levels of blood glucose, NEFA, and amino acids (AAs) (lysine and glutamic acid) compared to a threshold (P < 0.05). But, the HP group resulted in increased (P < 0.05) levels of blood glucose, NEFA, and AAs (lysine and glutamic acid) compared to LP and MP groups under severe HS stress. The expression level of the HSP70 gene in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and hair follicles was increased (P < 0.05) following an increase in moderate and severe HS levels. Also, HSP70 gene expression in the HP group was decreased (P < 0.05) compared with LP and MP groups under intense HS level. Overall, HS in Korean native beef calves exhibited negative effects on ADG, blood glucose, NEFA, and AA profile. However, 17.5% of dietary protein (HP) could compensate for the growth of heat-exposed Korean native beef calves through the regulation of homeostasis by protein and energy metabolism. Also, it was evident that adequate protein (HP) is used as a major nutrient for HSP70 synthesis in PBMC and hair follicles causing, a boost in the immune system of heat-exposed Korean native beef calves.

Study on the relationship between hormone and Lp(a) in Chinese overweight/obese patients

BackgroundObesity is a risk factor for metabolic diseases and often influences hormone change. Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) is associated with various metabolic diseases, but there are few studies on the relationship between Lp(a) and hormones in obese patients. This study investigated the the relationship between Lp(a) and hormones in Chinese overweight/obese people.MethodsA total of 410 overweight/obese patients (Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2) were included and underwent sociodemographic data investigations and relevant clinical examinations. Lp(a) was analyzed by colorimetric enzymatic assays and hormone was measured with chemiluminescence immunoassay method. According to Lp(a) levels, they were categorized into 3 groups: the lower Lp(a) group (Lp(a) levels < 30 mg/dl), the moderate Lp(a) group (Lp(a) levels between 30 mg/dl and 120 mg/dl) and the higher Lp(a) group (Lp(a) levels > 120 mg/dl). The differences of hormone levels among the three groups were compared and the relationship between Lp(a) and hormones was analyzed by Spearman’s rank correlation.ResultsThe higher Lp(a) group had significantly lower testosterone (TES) levels compared with the lower and moderate Lp(a) groups in the case of gender, age and BMI matching. Lp(a) concentration was negatively correlated with TES levels in all participants and the negative association between Lp(a) and TES levels was also observed when the analysis was stratified by gender. Additionally, the TES was statistically related with Lp(a) levels in the multiple linear regression model (95% confidence interval: − 0.451 to − 0.079).ConclusionsTES levels was negatively associated with Lp(a) levels in Chinese overweight/obese patients.

Higher protein intake during caloric restriction improves diet quality and attenuates loss of lean body mass.

ObjectiveHigher protein intake during weight loss is associated with better health outcomes, but whether this is because of improved diet quality is not known. The purpose of this study was to examine how the change in self‐selected protein intake during caloric restriction (CR) alters diet quality and lean body mass (LBM).MethodsIn this analysis of pooled data from multiple weight loss trials, 207 adults with overweight or obesity were examined before and during 6 months of CR (approximately 10 food records/person). Body composition was measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index in 2 groups: lower (LP) and higher (HP) protein intake.ResultsParticipants (mean [SD], 54 [11] years; 29 [4] kg/m2) lost 5.0% (5.4%) of weight. Protein intake was 79 (9) g/d (1.0 [0.2] g/kg/d) and 58 (6) g/d (0.8 [0.1] g/kg/d) in the HP and LP groups, respectively (p < 0.05), and there was an attenuated LBM (kilograms) loss in the HP (−0.6% [1.5%]) compared with the LP (−1.2% [1.4%]) group (p < 0.01). The increased Healthy Eating Index score in the HP compared with the LP group was attributed to greater total protein and green vegetable intake and reduced refined grain and added‐sugar intake (p < 0.05).ConclusionsIncreasing dietary protein during CR improves diet quality and may be another reason for reduced LBM, but it requires further study.

MO575: Possible Benefits of a Low Protein Diet in Older CKD Patients at Risk of Malnutrition: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract BACKGROUND AND AIMS Current guidelines do not clarify whether older patients with advanced chronic kidney disease may benefit of low protein diet if they are at risk of malnutrition. We compared the effects of normo-calorie/normo-protein (NP) and normo-calorie/low protein diet (LP) on nutritional status and metabolic complications related to the progression of kidney damage in these patients. METHOD This pilot study had an open label randomized-controlled design (ClinicalTrials.gov Id: NCT05015647). Thirty-five patients were treated for six months with two different diets (LP = 17) and (NP = 18). Malnutrition was assessed by Malnutrition Inflammation Score and International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism criteria. Renal function was assessed by creatinine and cystatin C based eGFR. RESULTS At the end of the study, Malnutrition Inflammation Score was improved in both LP and NP groups (respectively: 3 ± 3 versus 6 ± 1.5, P = 0.020 and 3 ± 2.5 versus 6 ± 2, P = 0.012), and prevalence of protein energy wasting syndrome decreased only in LP. LP group had higher eGFRcys-C (17 ± 6 versus 12 ± 4 mL/min/1.73 m2; P &amp;lt; 0.05), lower serum urea (105 ± 65 versus 138 ± 30 mg/dL; P &amp;lt; 0.05) and lower PTH (68 ± 10 versus 99 ± 61 ng/L; P &amp;lt; 0.05) than NP. Serum and urinary phosphorous did not change while FGF23-intact and FGF23 c-terminal increased in both groups (FGF23-intact in LP: 70[48;98] versus 126[90;410] pg/mL, P &amp;lt; 0.01 and in NP: 86[57;194] versus 143[119;186] pg/mL, P &amp;lt; 0.01; FGF23 c-terminal in LP: 77[30.3;112] versus 111[63;384] RU/mL, P &amp;lt; 0.01 and in NP: 142[56.6;175] versus 157[76.7;281] RU/mL, P &amp;lt; 0.01). CONCLUSION LP diet has a favorable impact on nutritional status as much as NP diet with possible greater benefits on the progression of kidney disease and some of its metabolic complications.

Effects of citicoline administration on synaptic proteins in rapid eye movement sleep-deprived rats.

Objective(s):Sleep has a pivotal role in learning-memory and sleep deprivation (SD) negatively affects synaptic functioning. Cytidine-5-diphosphocholine (Citicoline) has been known to improve learning and memory functions. Our objective was to explore the effects of Citicoline on hippocampal and cortical synaptic proteins in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep-deprived rats.Materials and Methods:Rats (n=36) were randomly divided into 6 groups. Environmental control or sleep deprivation was done by placing the rat on a 13 cm diameter platform (Large Platform [LP] group) or on a 6.5 cm diameter platform (REMSD group), respectively, for 96 hours. Rats randomized for controls (Home Cage [HC] group) were followed up in home cages. Rats in each of the REMSD, LP or HC group were randomized to receive either saline (0,9%NaCl) or Citicoline (600 μmol/kg) intraperitoneally twice a day for four days. After the experiments, rats were sacrificed; their cerebral cortices and hippocampi were dissected for analyzing the levels of pre-synaptic proteins synaptophysin and synapsin I, and the post-synaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) by Western-blotting. Results: Hippocampal levels of PSD-95, but not the pre-synaptic proteins, were reduced by REM sleep deprivation. Citicoline treatment ameliorated the reduction in PSD-95 levels in REM sleep-deprived rats. On the other hand, REM sleep deprivation was not found to be significantly effective on pre- or post-synaptic proteins in cerebral cortex.Conclusion:REM sleep deprivation reduces hippocampal PSD-95 levels which are enhanced by Citicoline treatment. These data propose that Citicoline may ameliorate the adverse effects of SD on hippocampal synaptic functioning.

Exploring the Effects of Different Bacteria Additives on Fermentation Quality, Microbial Community and In Vitro Gas Production of Forage Oat Silage.

Simple SummaryForage oat is an important feed resource in the world. Few studies on the application of different bacterial additives in forage oat silage have been found, which limits the utilization and promotion of oat silage in animal husbandry. In this study, we compared the fermentation quality and in vitro gas production of oat silage treated with four additives (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum F1,LP; Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus XJJ01, LR; Lacticaseibacillus paracasei XJJ02, LC; and Propionibacterium acidipropionici 1.1161, PP). The results show that compared to the CK group (without additives), the LR group had a higher dry matter content, while the LP group showed an improvement in fermentation quality. At the same time, the bacterial community in the LR group was also different from that in other groups. The treatments of PP and LC had no significant effects on fermentation quality, but the in vitro gas production was significantly reduced in the treated oat silage. These results could help us to optimize the utilization of forage oat silage in balanced ruminant diets.Bacterial inoculants are considered as a good choice for successful ensiling, playing a key role in improving the silage quality. However, the potential of different bacteria, especially the propionic acid bacteria, in forage oat ensiling is yet to be explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the regulation effects of different bacterial additives on the fermentation quality of forage oat silage. Four additives (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum F1, LP; Lacticaseibacillus 0rhamnosus XJJ01, LR; Lacticaseibacillus paracasei XJJ02, LC; and Propionibacterium acidipropionici 1.1161, PP; without additives, CK) were inoculated in forage oat silage, and the fermentation quality and organic compounds were determined after 60 days of ensiling. Notably, LR showed higher dry matter preservation compared to other additives and CK. In addition, LP and LR showed strong lactic acid synthesis capacity, resulting in lower pH compared to other additives and CK. The treatments of PP and LC increased the bacterial diversity in silage, while the bacterial community in the LR group was different from that in other groups. In addition, the PP- and LC-treated oat silage showed significantly lower total in vitro gas production and a lower methane content. These results suggest that LP is more favorable for producing high-quality oat silage than LR, LC, or PP. Both the PP- and LC- treated oat silage may reduce rumen greenhouse gas emissions.

Effect of dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, fecal score, fecal microbial counts, gas emission and nutrient digestibility in growing pigs

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on the growth performance, fecal score, fecal microbial counts, gas emission, and nutrient digestibility in growing pigs. A total of 180 growing pigs (Duroc x (Landrace x Yorkshire)) with average initial body weight (BW) of 24.72 ± 1.731 kg were randomly allocated to four treatments with nine replications of five pigs per pen (three gilts and two barrows) in a 6-week trial experiment. Dietary treatments were as follows: CON, control treatment; LP1, CON + 0.15 g (0.18 ×10−6 CFU)/kg L. plantarum; LP2, CON + 0.30 g (0.36 ×10−6 CFU)/kg L. plantarum; LP3, CON + 0.45 g (0.54 ×10−6 CFU)/kg L. plantarum. The increasing dose of L. plantarum supplement linearly increased the BW of growing pigs at weeks 3 and 6 (P = 0.028, P = 0.037, respectively). Also, pigs fed diets supplemented with L. plantarum linearly increased the average daily gain (ADG) (P = 0.037) and gain-to- feed ratios (G:F) (P = 0.027) during the overall experimental period. Dietary inclusion of L. plantarum supplement linearly reduced (P = 0.045) the concentration of fecal ammonia (NH3) emissions in LP group. While, pigs fed graded level of L. plantarum supplementation linearly increased (P = 0.004) the Lactobacillus population at the end of the trial. Additionally, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM) was linearly increased (linear effect: P = 0.045) in LP group pigs. However, no differences were found on average daily feed intake (ADFI), fecal score, Escherichia coli (E. coli) counts, total mercaptan (R.SH) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) concentrations in feces, and the ATTD of nitrogen. Our results indicated that dietary supplementation of 0.45 g (0.54 ×10−6 CFU)/kg L. plantarum could be effective to improve the growth performance, fecal Lactobacillus counts, nutrient digestibility of DM, and reduce fecal NH3 concentration in growing pigs.

Association of lipoprotein (a) and 1year prognosis in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

AimCurrent study was to evaluate relationship between baseline serum lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] level and prognosis in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and to explore whether the relationship would be modified by baseline high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (Hs‐CRP) level.Methods and resultsThis is an observational prospective study. HFrEF patients from outpatient clinic were consecutively recruited (n = 362). Based on Lp(a) cutoff (30 mg/dL), patients were divided into normal and high Lp(a) groups; and based on Hs‐CRP cutoff (3 mg/dL), patients were divided into low‐degree and high‐degree groups. The 1 year rate of HF rehospitalization was similar between these two groups (22.7% vs. 24.1%, P = 0.18), while the 1 year rate of cardiovascular mortality was higher in Lp(a) ≥ 30 mg/dL versus Lp(a) < 30 mg/dL groups (20.3% vs. 13.3%, P = 0.009), as was composite endpoint (44.4% vs. 36.0%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for covariates, elevated Lp(a) level remained associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.22 and 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.64, P = 0.02] and composite endpoint (HR 1.38 and 95% CI 1.16–2.01, P = 0.006). In Hs‐CRP ≥ 3 mg/dL group, elevated Lp(a) level was associated with HF rehospitalization, cardiovascular mortality, and composite endpoint, which was not observed in Hs‐CRP < 3 mg/dL group. The association was greater for cardiovascular mortality (P‐interaction = 0.04) and composite endpoint (P‐interaction = 0.02) in Hs‐CRP ≥ 3 mg/dL versus Hs‐CRP < 3 mg/dL groups.ConclusionElevated Lp(a) level is associated with higher risk of cardiovascular mortality in HFrEF patients, which might be due to enhanced systemic inflammation.

Was Blackstone's Initial Public Offering Too Good to be True?: A Case Study in Closing Loopholes in the Partnership Tax Allocation Rules

Typically, publicly traded entities must be treated as corporations for tax purposes. Blackstone Group LP is publicly traded, yet it is not treated as a corporation for tax purposes. Why not? Blackstone Group LP utilizes complex tax structuring in order to qualify for an exception from the typical corporate tax treatment and, in the process, saves millions of dollars in taxliability annually.Members of Congress have proposed reforms that would have prevented Blackstone Group LP from reducing its tax liability in this manner. However, these reforms were not enacted This Article takes a different approach. It argues that existing law already provides the IRS with the tools needed to challenge the legitimacy of the results claimed by Blackstone Group LP.In the process, this Article highlights an important and unintended loophole in existing partnership tax allocation rules - specifically, the failure of the rules to adequately address allocations among related partners. Finally, this Article proposes that the IRS use general tax law standards to close this unintended loophole.

Synergistic Effect of Dietary Inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum and Berberine Supplementation on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immune Function of Juvenile Black Sea Bream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii)

The interactive effect of dietary inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum and berberine on black sea bream, Acanthopagrus schlegelii, was investigated with three diets designated as D1 (Con: basal diet), D2 (LP: basal diet + 400 mg/kg L. plantarum), and D3 (LPBB: basal diet + 400 mg/kg L. plantarum + 50 mg/kg berberine) and fed to juvenile black sea bream ( 5.67 ± 0.05 g) for 56 days. The growth performance and feed utilization parameters, as well as intestinal trypsin activity, were significantly improved in the LP and LPBB groups ( P &lt; 0.05 ). Fish fed the LPBB diet showed better serum and hepatic antioxidant capacity, whilst the LP group had better hepatic antioxidant capacity, than the control fish ( P &lt; 0.05 ). Intestinal IgM and C3 levels significantly increased in the LPBB fish than the rest of the groups ( P &lt; 0.05 ). NF-κB was significantly upregulated in the LP group ( P &lt; 0.05 ). Nrf2 and IL-10 were significantly upregulated, whilst Keap1b and NF-κB were significantly downregulated in the LPBB group ( P &lt; 0.05 ). These findings show that a combination of inactivated L. plantarum and berberine in the diet of black sea bream can improve the immune response and antioxidant capacity than a diet with only the inactivated probiotic, whilst both diets can equally improve growth performance.

Postoperative C5 Palsy Following Cervical Laminectomy With Instrumented Fusion Versus Cervical Laminoplasty With Reconstruction: Single Surgeon and National Inpatient Cohort Analyses.

This was a retrospective cohort study. The objective of this study was to investigate whether cervical laminectomy with instrumented fusion (LF) and cervical laminoplasty with reconstruction (LP) are associated with different rates C5 palsy (C5P) at 1-month follow-up in a single surgeon and nationally representative cohort. LF and LP both carry a well-known risk of nerve root injury that most commonly presents as C5P which can reduce patient satisfaction, patient function, and impede patient recovery. The procedure type that is more frequently associated with C5P remains largely unclear. We identified patients undergoing primary LF or LP procedures for the treatment of cervical myelopathy in both a single-surgeon series cohort (2004-2018; Mount Sinai Hospital) and a nationally representative cohort drawn from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database (2006-2017). For the single-surgeon cohort, C5P within 1 month of surgery was recorded. For the NSQIP cohort, peripheral nerve injury (PNI) within 1 month of surgery was recorded and used as a proxy for C5P. Postoperative complications including C5P were compared between cohorts. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between procedure type and postoperative C5P or PNI. Without adjusting for covariates, LF patients had a higher rate of 1-month C5P in the single-surgeon cohort (8% vs. 0%, P=0.01). An adjusted odds ratio could not be obtained due to the absence of C5P in the LP group. In the national cohort, LP patients had a significantly higher rate of 1-month PNI on unadjusted analysis (11% vs. 16%, P<0.001). After adjusting for covariates, we found no significant difference in odds of 1-month PNI between LF and LP (adjusted odds ratio=0.84, P=0.07). Overall, the single-surgeon series suggest that cervical LF is associated with significantly higher rates of postoperative C5P as compared with LP. These findings are not corroborated by nationally representative data, which showed no difference in PNI rates between LF and LP. A surgeon's training and experience likely contribute to which procedure has a higher propensity for a C5P as a complication. Regardless, both LF and LP patients should be closely monitored for new-onset C5P during follow-up visits. Level III.

Impact of lipoprotein (a) on long-term outcome after percutaneous coronary intervention in the era of new generation drug-eluting stents

BackgroundHigh lipoprotein (a) [Lp (a)] levels are associated with worse long-term outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, there are limited studies investigating association between Lp (a) levels and long-term outcomes in the era of new generation drug-eluting stents (DES). MethodsA total of 495 patients with available data on Lp (a) who underwent PCI for de novo lesions with new generation DES were enrolled between 2013 and 2017. The primary endpoint was the major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), which was defined as a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, clinically driven target lesion revascularization, and revascularization for new lesions during 3 years. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the Lp (a) level: high Lp (a) group (≥30 mg/dL: n = 109) and low Lp (a) group (30 mg/dL>: n = 386). Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors for 3-year MACE. ResultsThe incidence of 3-year MACE was significantly higher in high Lp (a) group than low Lp (a) group (33.0% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that Lp (a) level of ≥30 mg/dL was an independent predictor for 3-year MACE (HR 2.01, 95%CI 1.30–3.11, p = 0.002). ConclusionHigh Lp (a) level was associated with worse long-term outcome even in the era of new generation DES.

Topical Administration of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Accelerates the Healing of Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcers through Modifications of Infection, Angiogenesis, Macrophage Phenotype and Neutrophil Response.

This work aimed to evaluate the adjuvant treatment to surgical debridement using topical applications of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ATCC 10241 cultures in complicated diabetic foot ulcers as compared to diabetic foot ulcers receiving surgical wound debridement. A randomised controlled trial was performed involving 22 outpatients with complicated diabetic foot ulcers that either received surgical debridement (SuDe, n = 12) or surgical debridement plus topical applications of L. plantarum cultures (SuDe + Lp, n = 10) every week during a 12 week treatment period. Compared to patients receiving SuDe, patients treated with SuDe + Lp exhibited significantly increased fibroplasia and angiogenesis, as determined by Masson’s trichrome staining and the study of CD34 cells, α-smooth muscle actin to semi-quantify vascular area, number of vessels and endothelial cells. In addition, a promotion of the polarisation of macrophages from M1 (CD68) to M2 (CD163) phenotype was observed in SuDe + Lp patients with remarkable differences in the tissue localisation. Bacterial counts were significantly diminished in the SuDe + Lp group compared to the SuDe group. Ex vivo assays, using polymorphonuclears isolated from peripheral blood of patients with diabetes and healthy individuals and challenged with Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that the addition of L. plantarum supernatants significantly improved the phagocytosis of these cells. L. plantarum-secreted components increased the neutrophils bactericidal activity and regulated the netosis induced by S. aureus. At day 49, the average wound area reduction with SuDe + Lp was 73.5% compared with 45.8% for SuDe (p < 0.05). More patients progressed to closure with SuDe + Lp compared with SuDe treatment, indicating the ability of L. plantarum to accelerate the healing. At day 60, 60% of patients treated with SuDe + Lp achieved 100% of wound area reduction compared with 40% for SuDe. We propose that SuDe + Lp could be an effective adjuvant to surgical debridement when SuDe is not satisfactory for patients with complicated diabetic foot ulcers. The treatment is cheap and easy to apply and the product is easy to obtain.

Cerebral Oximetry after Low Pressure versus Standard Pressure Pneumoperitoneum in Laparoscopic Nephrectomy.

To evaluate whether pneumoperitoneum pressure lower than the standard pressure would allow higher cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) during laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN). Randomised controlled trial. Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital, Samsun, Turkey, from January to November 2020. Sixty-two patients (aged 18-65 years; ASA I-III) scheduled for LN were equally divided into a low-pressure (LP; 8 mmHg) and standard-pressure (SP; 14 mmHg) group. Mechanical ventilator settings were adjusted to maintain 32-37 mmHg ETCO2 and >96% SpO2 throughout the surgery. The rSO2 was evaluated by near-infrared spectroscopy before and one minute after induction and then every five minutes until patient transfer to the recovery unit. Oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures, pH, and haemoglobin, recorded at five minutes after induction, five and 30 minutes after insufflation, and 10 minutes after desufflation, were examined for correlations with rSO2. Both groups had similar rSo2, arterial blood gas, and haemoglobin values at all measurement times. The LP group showed no differences between the preoperative values and the values obtained at the different time points. In contrast, the SP group showed significant differences between the preoperative and the measured values (except at 25, 30, and 35 minutes) (p = 0.001). Four patients (12.9%) in both groups showed cerebral desaturation. The rSO2 values were moderately correlated with the CO2 and haemoglobin values. Low insufflation pressure offered no advantages over standard pressure in terms of haemodynamics, arterial blood gases, cerebral oxygen saturation during LN, and CO2 insufflation did not change rSO2 levels. Key Words: Pneumoperitoneum, Spectroscopy, Oximetry, Nephrectomy, Surgery, Laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Low protein with high amino acid diets improves the growth performance of yellow feather broilers by improving intestinal health under cyclic heat stress

This study investigated the effects of a low-protein diet supplemented with high lysine, methionine, and threonine levels on production performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, duodenum gene expression and intestinal microorganisms in yellow feather broilers under cyclic heat stress. A total of 162 yellow feather broilers that were 42 d of age were selected and randomly divided into three groups: the control group (CONT, CP 16%), heat stress group (HS, CP 16%), and heat stress with low protein and high amino acid group (HS_LP, CP 14.5%). Following 14 d heating stress period, the HS_LP group showed no significant effect on production performance compared with the HS group. After a 28 d feeding trial, compared with the HS group, the HS_LP group significantly reduced feed: gain at 15–28 d (P < 0.05), had a tendency to reduce feed: gain at 1–28 d (P = 0.056). Compared with the HS group, the serum catalase enzyme activity tended to be higher (P = 0.067), and liver glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in the HS_LP group. Other antioxidant capacity indexes were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Duodenum (P < 0.05) and ileum (P < 0.05) villus height were significantly increased, duodenum villus height: crypt depth ratio (P < 0.05) and jejunum crypt depth (P < 0.05) were significantly decreased, and jejunum villus height was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in broilers fed the HS_LP diet. Compared with the HS group, the mRNA level of Claudin-1 was significantly increased (P < 0.05), and had a tendency to increase Occludin (P = 0.060) in the HS_LP group. In addition, the HS_LP group significantly increased Nitrosomonas abundance (P < 0.05) and had a tendency to reduce unidentified_Mollicutes abundance (P = 0.083) at the genus level compared with the HS group. This information is useful to formulate diets that correct the decrease in amino acid consumption associated with the reduced voluntary feed intake of broilers under heat stress.

Locking plate fixation with fibular strut allograft versus locking plate fixation alone for the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in adults:a Meta-analysis

To compare the clinical efficacy of locking plate fixation with a fibular strut allograft (FA group) and locking plate fixation alone (LP group) in the treatment of proximal humeral fractures in adults by Meta-analysis. Databases including PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, Chinese BioMedical Literature Database(CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI), WanFang Data, and China Science and Technology Journal Database (cpvip Database) were searched by computer from establishing to March 2020 to collect studies about locking plate fixation with fibular strut allograft versus locking plate fixation alone for proximal humeral fractures in adults. Two reviewers independently screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. The postoperative humeral head height changes, neck-shaft angle changes, Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons(ASES)score, visual analogue scale(VAS), varus malunion rate, and screw penetration rate were compared by RevMan 5.3 software for Meta-analysis. Ten cohort studies were enrolled in a total of 749 patients, 300 patients in the FA group and 449 patients in the LP group. The results of Meta-analysis showed that locking plate with fibular strut allograft was superior to locking plate fixation alone in the changes in humeral head height [MD=-2.69, 95%CI(-3.24, -2.13), P<0.000 01], the changes in neck-shaft angle [MD=-5.65, 95%CI(-7.18, -4.12), P<0.000 01], Constant-Murley score [MD=9.00, 95%CI(4.26, 13.73), P=0.000 2], the ASES score [MD=5.56, 95%CI(4.29, 6.84), P=0.000 01], VAS score [MD=-0.23, 95%CI(-0.37, -0.09), P=0.001], the varus malunion rate [RR=0.22, 95%CI(0.09, 0.53), P=0.000 7] and the screw penetration rate [RR=0.26, 95%CI(0.13, 0.55), P=0.000 3], respectively.While there was no significant difference in the rate of osteonecrosis of the humeral head [RR=1.18, 95%CI(0.57, 2.45), P=0.65]. For proximal humeral fractures in adults, current evidence shows that locking plate fixation with fibular strut allograft is superior to single locking plate fixation in improving postoperative radiological outcomes and shoulder function, relieving postoperative pain, reducing varus malunion rate and screw penetration rate. However, the efficacy in decreasing the osteonecrosis rate is not clear. Due to limited quality and quantity of the included studies, more high-quality studies are required to verify the above conclusion.

An open label randomized placebo-controlled study of apremilast in common immune mediated papulosquamous hair and pigmentary dermatoses

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Apremilast is a novel PDE4 inhibitor which interferes with several key processes of inflammation. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety profile of apremilast in common immune mediated papulosquamous, hair and pigmentary dermatoses. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; It was a prospective, open labelled, randomised, placebo-controlled study done over a period of 18 months. A total number of 100 patients were enrolled in which 50 were cases and 50 were controls. Psoriasis, lichen planus, alopecia areata and vitiligo cases were randomly enrolled at our OPD. Apremilast starter pack was given initially for 1 week followed by 30 mg twice daily for four months. All patients were followed up every 4 weeks for 16 weeks. Photographic documentation, assessment of PASI, LPSI, SALT, VASI and adverse effects were noted at baseline and at each visit. Patients were followed up for 6 months after the treatment for any recurrences.&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; Mean percentage improvement of PASI score in psoriasis group, LPSI score in LP group, SALT score in alopecia areata group and VASI score in vitiligo group was 62%, 71%, 24.4% and 15% respectively. Apremilast was more effective in psoriasis and lichen planus groups.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Apremilast is an effective treatment option for mild to moderate psoriasis and lichen planus but was found to be less efficacious in alopecia areata and vitiligo, according to our study. Apremilast was well tolerated with minimal side effects which were manageable with symptomatic treatment.&lt;/p&gt;

Dietary curcumin supplementation ameliorates placental inflammation in rats with intra-uterine growth retardation by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway

Intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a serious, commonly occurring reproductive problem in humans. This study aimed to investigate the effects of daily curcumin supplementation during pregnancy on placental inflammation, in a rat model of IUGR. Pregnant rats were divided into three groups based on diet: (1) normal protein (19%) (NP), (2) low protein (8%) (LP), and (3) low protein + 100 mg curcumin/kg bw per day (LPC). The results showed that curcumin accumulation in the serum, placenta and liver. Fetal weight and placental total protein levels were increased in the LPC group compared with those in the LP group. Dietary curcumin supplementation normalized the low protein diet-induced decrease of placental weight, blood sinusoid area, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein expression levels. It also reversed the low protein diet-induced increase of serum triglyceride levels and tumor necrosis factor alpha-like (TNF-α), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations in both the placenta and serum. Additionally, it normalized the enhanced gene expression levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the LP group to that in the NP group. Furthermore, it downregulated the inhibitor of kappa Balpha (IκBα) and nuclear factor kappa Balpha (NF-κB) phosphorylation. In conclusion, daily curcumin supplementation ameliorates placental inflammation in rats with IUGR by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Lipoprotein (a) levels in newly diagnosed treatment naive type 2 diabetics &amp; it’s correlation with glycemic &amp; lipid parameters

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has a high morbidity and mortality mainly due to cardiovascular diseases. Besides traditional risk factors, Lp(a) has recently been emerged as an independent risk factor. This study aimed to evaluate the incidences of elevated Lp(a) levels in newly diagnosed T2DM Pts and to find the pattern of lipid profile abnormalities associated with elevated Lp(a) group of pts &amp; it’s correlation with glycemic &amp; lipid parameters.This present study was conducted in newly diagnosed treatment naïve type 2 diabetic patients. After obtaining informed consent, all participants completed a survey to obtain anthropometric &amp; clinical information. Venous blood samples were drawn for fasting plasma glucose, postprandial glucose, HbA1c,lipid profile &amp; Lp(a) measurements.A total 70 newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic pts &amp; 50 healthy controls were studied. The mean Lp(a)level measured among diabetics was 34.17 ±33.25 mg/dl. The mean concentration of Lp(a) in diabetics was significantly higher than control group(&amp;#60;0.001). Lp(a) was positively correlated with 2hr PP glucose, HbA1c and these correlations were statistically significant. The Lp(a) was negatively correlated with HDLc &amp; this correlation was statistically significant(0.04).Our study demonstrated Type 2 diabetics had statistically significant higher levels of Lp(a). The residual lipid risk is probably contributed by this molecule So, every diabetic should have checked their level at least once in a lifetime to predict CV risk.

HP52 : Significance of electrodiagnostic study and magnetic resonance imaging findings in diagnostics of cervical and lumbosacral radiculopathy

Electrodiagnostic study (EMG/NCS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are both mainstay methods in diagnosing radiculopathy with a wide range of sensitivity documented. The aim of this study was to determine the significance of EMG/NCS and MRI and correlation between them in diagnosing radiculopathy. Materials and methods. 36 patients with clinical picture of cervical root (CR) and 35 patients with lumbosacral root (LR) damage was enrolled in a retrospective cohort study. MRI findings were divided into three groups: Grade 0- no changes in MRI; grade 1-initial degenerative changes without compression of nerve root; grade 2- evidence of nerve root compression. Electrodiagnosticaly proven root damage - reinnervation or deinervation with reinnervation process in at least two corresponding muscles on electromyography (EMG). Results. Multiple level unilateral and/or bilateral root damage was present in majority of patients. Totally 110 CR levels and 73 LR levels were analyzed. There were 30% (n=33) roots in CR group and 36,99% (n=27) in LR group, with grade 2 changes on MRI. In this group 72,72% (n=24) CR cases and 70,37% (n=20) LR cases had changes on EMG related to root damage. 40% (n=44) levels in CR group and 36,99% (n=27) in LR group, with grade 1 changes on MRI. In this grope 70,45% (n=31) CR cases had changes in EMG related to radiculopathy and 76,92% (n=20) in LP group. Conclusions. There is no significant difference in EMG/NCS sensitivity in both MRI groups, therefore we suggest performing EMG/NCS for root damage diagnostic in cases with minor alterations in MRI.