Hemoglobin Protein Research Articles

Designing tailor-made steric matters to improve the immobilized ficin specificity for small versus large proteins

The development of strategies that can permit to adjust the size specificity of immobilized proteases by the generation of steric hindrances may enlarge its applicability. Using as a model ficin immobilized on glyoxyl agarose, two strategies were assayed to generate tailor made steric hindrances. First, ficin has been coimmobilized on supports coated with large proteins (hemoglobin or bovine serum albumin (BSA)). While coimmobilization of ficin with BSA presented no effect on the activity versus any of the assayed substrates, coimmobilization with hemoglobin permitted to improve the immobilized ficin specificity for casein versus hemoglobin, but still significant activity versus hemoglobin remained. Second, aldehyde-dextran has been employed to modify the immobilized ficin, trying to generate steric hindrances to avoid the entry of large proteins (hemoglobin) while enabling the entry of small ones (casein). This also increased the size specificity of ficin, but still did not suppress the activity versus hemoglobin. The combination of both strategies and the use of 37ºC during the proteolysis enabled to almost fully nullify the hydrolytic activity versus hemoglobin while preserving a high percentage of the activity versus casein. The modifications improved enzyme stability and the biocatalyst could be reused for 5 cycles without alteration of its properties.

Comparative study of lysine acetylation in Vesicomyidae clam Archivesica marissinica and the manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum: adaptation mechanisms in cold seep environments

BackgroundThe deep-sea cold seep zone is characterized by high pressure, low temperature, darkness, and oligotrophy. Vesicomyidae clams are the dominant species within this environment, often forming symbiotic relationships with chemosynthetic microbes. Understanding the mechanisms by which Vesicomyidae clams adapt to the cold seep environment is significant. Acetylation modification of lysine is known to play a crucial role in various metabolic processes. Consequently, investigating the role of lysine acetylation in the adaptation of Vesicomyidae clams to deep-sea environments is worthwhile. So, a comparative study of lysine acetylation in cold seep clam Archivesica marissinica and shallow water shellfish Ruditapes philippinarum was conducted.ResultsA total of 539 acetylated proteins were identified with 1634 acetylation sites. Conservative motif enrichment analysis revealed that the motifs -KacR-, -KacT-, and -KacF- were the most conserved. Subsequent gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were conducted on significantly differentially expressed acetylated proteins. The GO enrichment analysis indicated that acetylated proteins are crucial in various biological processes, including cellular response to stimulation, and other cellular processes ( p < 0.05 and false discovery rate (FDR) < 0.25). The results of KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that acetylated proteins are involved in various cellular processes, including tight junction, motor proteins, gap junction, phagosome, cGMP-PKG signaling pathways, endocytosis, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, among others (p < 0.05 and FDR < 0.25). Notably, a high abundance of lysine acetylation was observed in the glycolysis/glycogenesis pathways, and the acetylation of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase might facilitate ATP production. Subsequent investigation into acetylation modifications associated with deep-sea adaptation revealed the specific identification of key acetylated proteins. Among these, the adaptation of cold seep clam hemoglobin and heat shock protein to high hydrostatic pressure and low temperature might involve an increase in acetylation levels. Acetylation of arginine kinase might be related to ATP production and interaction with symbiotic bacteria. Myosin heavy chain (Ama01085) has the most acetylation sites and might improve the actomyosin system stability through acetylation. Further validation is required for the acetylation modification from Vesicomyidae clams.ConclusionA novel comparative analysis was undertaken to investigate the acetylation of lysine in Vesicomyidae clams, yielding novel insights into the regulatory role of lysine acetylation in deep-sea organisms. The findings present many potential proteins for further exploration of acetylation functions in cold seep clams and other deep-sea mollusks.

The Relationship between Inflammatory Factors, Hemoglobin, and VO2 Max in Male Amateur Long-Distance Cross-Country Skiers in the Preparation Period

Background: Identifying factors affecting heart health in amateur athletes can significantly impact their health and help them achieve high performance. The current knowledge of these predictors is insufficient. The purpose of this study was to identify the biochemical determinants of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) in male amateur long-distance cross-country skiers (37.9 ± 6.58 years, 51.08 ± 4.61 VO2 max ml/kg/min) in the preparation period. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a time trial test was used to determine VO2 max and venous blood via biochemical markers. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation were used to analyze the data. The regression model determined the predictors. Results: VO2 max was significantly correlated with nine moderate or weak variables. Two regression models (R2 = 0.94 and R2 = 0.9) each identified two determinants of VO2 max, hemoglobin (p &lt; 0.001) and C-reactive protein (p &lt; 0.001), as well as erythrocyte sedimentation (p &lt; 0.001) and platelets (p = 0.03). Only hemoglobin positive affected VO2 max. Conclusions: The results may indicate, in addition to results regarding hemoglobin concentration and its changes, the necessity to monitor the immune system, which may affect the capacity for amateur exercise. Biochemical monitoring is an essential tool for evaluating the individual adaptation to exercise and developing an effective training plan. The application of this knowledge can facilitate the achievement of optimal individual performance capabilities among cross-country skiing amateurs.

Structural and functional characterization of haemoglobin genes in Labeo catla: Insights into hypoxic adaptation and survival

Haemoglobin (HB) protein comprises four subunits: two identical α-subunits (HBA) and two identical β-subunits (HBB), encoded by the HBA and HBB genes. In this investigation, 5′/3′ RACE PCR (Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends) was used to obtain complete coding sequences (CDSs) of both the genes from farmed Labeo catla. The resulting CDSs were 432 base pairs and 447 base pairs for HBA and HBB, respectively, corresponding to 143 and 148 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close relationships with other cyprinids, with Labeo rohita being the closest relative. Functional analysis and protein structure prediction were conducted using bioinformatics tools. Expression profiling of both genes was checked in various tissues under control (C) and hypoxic (H) conditions. Notably, under hypoxia, HBA and HBB genes were significantly upregulated (P < 0.05) initially, followed by a return to normal expression levels. Similar trends were observed for Hif1α (Hypoxia-inducible factor one alpha) and EPO (Erythropoietin) genes. Additionally, haematological indices also significantly increased corresponding to the gene expressions. However, with the decrease in the expression of these genes an onset of mortality was observed in the hypoxia (H) treated groups. The results of the current study explored the role of haemoglobin genes in adaptation to the hypoxic condition.

EFFECTS OF HUMAN CYTOMEGALOVIRUS ON SOME HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND LIVER FUNCTION IN PREGNANT WOMEN, YEMEN

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection is a common congenital infection that affects approximately 0.7%–1% of all live births worldwide. Approximately 11% of newborns who are infected show symptoms at birth, and of these, between 30% and 40% are at a risk of experiencing long-term neurological complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of HCMV on hematological parameters and liver function in pregnant women in Hajjah governorate, Yemen. This study is a cross-section study that conducted in the Hajjah governorate of Yemen during a period of March to June 2023. A total of 108 blood specimens were collected from participants; 78 from patients group and 30 health group. Hematological parameters, such as total red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (HB), platelet count (PLT), and white blood cells (WBC), as well as liver function tests, such as total protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin, were measured. Majority of participant patients aged between 16–21 years 27 (34.7%), studied at secondary schools (46.2%), in their second trimester 51 (65.4%), those with multigravida 54 (69.2%), and those with no history of congenital diseases 60 (76.9%). Compared with the control group, the mean WBC levels were significantly lower in HCMV patients (P &lt; 0.05), whereas PLT levels were higher among HCMV patients (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the mean levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, SGOT, ALP, and albumin were significantly lower in patients with HCMV than in HC (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the patient and healthy groups in terms of HB, RBC counts, SGPT, and total protein (P &gt; 0.05). It can be concluded that HCMV infection had a statistically significant effect on WBC, PLT, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, SGOT, ALP, and albumin levels in pregnant women. Consequently, further studies are needed to define the role of HCMV in liver disorders.

Evaluating The Factors Affecting Mortality and Survival of the Patients Who Underwent Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy; The Short-term and Long-term Results

Summary Aim Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a common minimally invasive technique performed in patients with oral feeding problems. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the associated factors that have an impact on the short- and long-term survival and mortality in these patients who received PEG tube placement. Materials and Methods The patients who underwent PEG placement between June 2020 and June 2023 are enrolled in the study. Mortality data was extracted from the National Death Registry database. Data regarding the demographics, indications of PEG, co-morbidities, length of hospital stay prior to PEG procedure, the need for mechanical ventilator support, body-mass index, serum levels of hemoglobin, leukocyte, albumin, and c-reactive protein are extracted retrospectively. Kaplan Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the factors affecting survival. Results A total of 137 patients are enrolled in the study (71 female and 66 male). One-month mortality was 16.7% and overall mortality during a follow-up of 38 months was 51%. Survival was significantly higher in patients with motor neuron diseases than the patients with Alzheimer’s (p=0.036). Length of hospital stay before PEG placement and hemoglobin levels were found to have a significant impact on survival in Cox regression analysis (p=0.000, p=0,009). Conclusion Length of hospital stay before PEGplacement, need for mechanical ventilator support and hemoglobin levels were found significantly associated with survival. Higher mortality in Alzheimer's patients may indicate that indications of PEG should be re-evaluated in these patients.

Laparoscopic Pylorus Preserving Gastrectomy vs Distal Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer; A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial (KLASS-04).

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of laparoscopic pylorus preserving gastrectomy (LPPG) with laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) for early gastric cancer (EGC). PPG is considered as a function preserving surgery for EGC. However, there has been no multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing PPG with DG until now. A multicenter randomized controlled trial (KLASS-04) with 256 patients with cT1N0M0 gastric cancer located in the mid portion of the stomach was conducted. The primary endpoint was the incidence of dumping syndrome at postoperative 1 year. Secondary endpoints included survival and recurrence, gallstone formation, nutritional parameters, gastroscopic findings, and quality of life (QOL) for 3 years. In the intention-to-treat analyses, there was no difference in the incidence of dumping syndrome at one year postoperatively (13.2% in LPPG vs. 15.8% in LDG, P=0.622). Gallstone formation after surgery was significantly lower in LPPG than in LDG (2.33% vs. 8.66%, P=0.026). Hemoglobin (+0.01 vs. -0.76gm/dL, P<0.001) and serum protein (-0.15 vs. -0.35gm/dL, P=0.002) were significantly preserved after LPPG. However, reflux esophagitis (17.8% vs. 6.3%, P=0.005) and grade IV delayed gastric emptying (16.3% vs. 3.9%, P=0.001) were more common in LPPG. Changes in body weight and postoperative QOL were not significantly different between groups. Three-year overall survival and disease-free survival were not different (1 case of recurrence of in each group, P=0.98). LPPG can be used as an alternative surgical option for cT1N0M0 gastric cancer in the mid portion of the stomach.

Enhancing terminal erythroid differentiation in human embryonic stem cells through TRIB3 overexpression

Tribbles pseudokinase 3 (TRIB3) expression significantly increases during terminal erythropoiesis in vivo. However, we found that TRIB3 expression remained relatively low during human embryonic stem cell (hESC) erythropoiesis, particularly in the late stage, where it is typically active. TRIB3 was expressed in megakaryocyte-erythrocyte progenitor cells and its low expression was necessary for megakaryocyte differentiation. Thus, we proposed that the high expression during late stage of erythropoiesis could be the clue for promotion of maturation of hESC-derived erythroid cells. To our knowledge, the role of TRIB3 in the late stage of erythropoiesis remains ambiguous. To address this, we generated inducible TRIB3 overexpression hESCs, named TRIB3tet-on OE H9, based on a Tet-On system. Then, we analyzed hemoglobin expression, condensed chromosomes, organelle clearance, and enucleation with or without doxycycline treatment. TRIB3tet-on OE H9 cells generated erythrocytes with a high proportion of orthochromatic erythroblast in flow cytometry, enhanced hemoglobin and related protein expression in Western blot, decreased nuclear area size, promoted enucleation rate, decreased lysosome and mitochondria number, more colocalization of LC3 with LAMP1 (lysosome marker) and TOM20 (mitochondria marker) and up-regulated mitophagy-related protein expression after treatment with 2 μg/mL doxycycline. Our results showed that TRIB3 overexpression during terminal erythropoiesis may promote the maturation of erythroid cells. Therefore, our study delineates the role of TRIB3 in terminal erythropoiesis, and reveals TRIB3 as a key regulator of UPS and downstream mitophagy by ensuring appropriate mitochondrial clearance during the compaction of chromatin.

A mixed-method analysis of provider adherence to integrated antenatal care guideline in BEmONC and Non BEmONC primary health center: An Indonesian case.

Provider adherence to the integrated antenatal care (ANC) procedure is an important indicator of high-quality ANC. The procedure is intended to avoid missed opportunities to detect the risk of abnormalities in pregnancy. This study aims to assess the provider's adherence to integrated ANC in Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) and non-BEmONC Primary Health Center (PHC). This study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method design. The quantitative phase reviewed 149 medical records of pregnant women in the four PHCs in Semarang from January until February 2020. The findings were used to describe the provider's adherence to the integrated ANC and lead to the contributing factors which should be explored in the qualitative phase. The study involved four in-depth interviews with midwife coordinators in four PHCs. The Mann-Whitney and Chi-square test was employed to analyse the quantitative data, while the thematic analysis was undertaken on the qualitative data. The provider's adherence to the guideline did not differ between BEmONC and non-BEmONC PHC. The general physical examination of the patients (18.81%) and dentist visits (84.6%) were not done in either BEmONC or non-BEmONC PHC. Incomplete laboratory tests were haemoglobin (28.2%) and urine protein (38.9%). The barriers to adherence to the integrated ANC guideline were related to an imbalance of resources, role and responsibility issues among doctors and midwives, and policy issues. This study found low BEmONC nor non-BEmONC PHC adherence to the integrated ANC guideline. A Periodic evaluation of the implementation of integrated ANC to ensure its high-quality implementation in Indonesia is needed.

Assessing the impact of HBB gene polymorphisms on the risk of beta thalassemia in the population of Diyala Governorate, Iraq

Objective The current research aims to investigate the genetic polymorphisms of the HBB gene and their relationship to the incidence of beta-thalassemia. Methods The study included 30 patients with beta-thalassemia major. Samples were collected during the period between August 2023 and February 2024. Their ages ranged from 2–31 years, in addition to 30 healthy people who did not suffer from hereditary blood diseases as a control group. Their ages ranged from 1–35 years. The exon region of the HBB gene was sequenced using nucleotide sequencing in order to identify the kind and location of mutations that alter the amino acid sequence that makes up the hemoglobin protein. Results The results of DNA sequencing of the exon region of the HBB gene, which consists of 382 base pairs, showed the presence of the rs713040 variant. This variant revealed that the GG genotype and the G allele, and the AA genotype and the A allele, were more frequent in the patient group compared to the healthy group and may be associated with risk. When comparing some physiological variables with the genotypes of the HBB gene between the group of patients and healthy controls at the rs713040 variant site, the results showed that there were significant differences (P&lt;0.001, P&lt;0.05) in the levels of WBC, HB, PLT, PCT, ALP, and Vitamin D in the three genotypes of the variant GG, GA, and AA. Conclusion The findings suggest that the rs713040 variant of the HBB gene may be associated with an increased risk of beta-thalassemia and that there are significant physiological differences between the genotypes of this variant in patients and healthy controls. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and the potential clinical implications of these genetic differences.

The midlife health of only children: chronic disease indicators and biomarkers by sibship size in three nationally representative UK cohorts.

Despite persistent concerns about only children's disadvantage relative to individuals with siblings, existing health-related evidence is inconsistent. Recent evidence from Nordic countries about only children having poorer health outcomes may not apply elsewhere because selection processes differ across contexts. We investigate the midlife health of only children in the UK where one-child families tend to be socio-economically advantaged relative to large families. Using the 1946, 1958 and 1970 British birth cohort studies, we examine various biomarkers and self-reported measures of chronic disease by sibship size when respondents are aged in their mid-40s, mid-50s and mid-60s. We estimate separate linear probability models for each cohort, age and outcome, adjusting for childhood and early adulthood circumstances. We found no evidence of only children differing from those with one, two or three or more siblings, at any age, in any of the cohorts, on: heart problems, hypertension, high triglycerides, high glycated haemoglobin or high C-reactive protein. However, compared with only children, the probability for cancer (0.019, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.002, 0.035; age 46/1970) and poor general health (0.060, CI: 0.015, 0.127; age 55/1958; and 0.110, CI: 0.052, 0.168; age 63/1946) was higher among those with three or more siblings. There is no consistent pattern of only child health disadvantage for midlife chronic disease outcomes across ages or cohorts in the UK. Research should focus on better understanding how sibship size differentials are contingent on context.

Evaluation of Psychological Stress and its Association with Glycosylated Hemoglobin and C-reactive Protein in Physicians

Throughout the world physicians face stress because of time pressures, workload, multiple roles and emotional issues. As a result, they are prone to develop psychological stress and related health problems. Evaluation of the psychological stress and its association with glycosylated hemoglobin and CRP level in physicians. This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December, 2022 among70 apparently healthy physicians working in Dhaka Medical college Hospital. The General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) was used to evaluate the stress level. Stress was categorized by the scores from GHQ-12. Score ‘≥4’denoted psychiatric morbidity. The study parameters were stress score, HbA1C and CRP. Chi-square test, ANOVA followed by post hoc Bonferroni test, Pearson’s correlation test was performed as applicable. Results were presented as mean and standard deviation (mean ± SD). Among all study subjects 10% participants had no stress, 27.1% participants had low stress and 62.9% participants had psychiatric morbidity. The mean ±SD of HbA1C of male and female physicians were 5.20±0.63 and 5.31±0.63 respectively. The mean ±SD of CRP in male and female physicians were 3.89±4.97 and 3.15±3.47 respectively. High stress score showed positive correlation with increased level of glycosylated hemoglobin. In male physicians CRP level showed negligible negative correlation with high stress but it showed positive correlation in female physicians. In male physicians none of the study parameters had statistically significant relationship with stress. In female physicians, high stress score was statistically significant relationship with increased HbA1C. This study implies that high stress level influences the increase of glycosylated hemoglobin in all physicians. Female subjects were more affected by high stress than males. CRP level had non-significant alteration with high stress score in both genders.

Impact of various nutritional interventions on the physical and mental state of patients undergoing surgery for oral and maxillofacial tumor: guiding patients' informed choices.

To compare the effects of oral nutritional supplements (ONS), parenteral nutrition (PN), and enteral nutrition (EN) on the recovery of patients who underwent oral and maxillofacial surgery. The shared decision-making process assigned 37, 56, and 35 patients to the ONS, PN, and EN groups, respectively. Details such as demographic data, duration of hospitalization, cost of nutritional therapy, nutritional assessments, patients' satisfaction, and compliance, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) score, and relevant biochemical indices were systematically recorded and compared between the groups. Patients with healthier biochemical indices and physical states at baseline, including a higher body mass index, preferred ONS. Patients using dentures and those with medical insurance often chose EN, while patients with recurrent disease preferred PN. Patients receiving EN had a similar duration of hospitalization to patients receiving ONS and also had the lowest nutritional costs. Patients receiving ONS had higher lymphocyte counts and levels of hemoglobin, albumin, and C-reactive protein. Patients in the PN group had elevated levels of serum potassium, chlorine, and sodium, while those receiving EN reported higher HAM-A scores, indicating greater anxiety than their counterparts. Predischarge surveys showed higher satisfaction and compliance in the PN and ONS groups than in the EN group. The PN group reported more adverse symptoms. At 7days post-discharge, patients with EN reported a greater feeling of well-being. ONS is the optimal choice for patients in good preoperative conditions, while PN is preferred during disease recurrence or when financially feasible. EN is suitable for patients using dentures or those with limited finances despite its potential psychological discomfort. Future studies with increased sample sizes and longer follow-up duration are necessary to corroborate our findings. The Trial Registration Number is ChiCTR2100049547. The date of registration isAugust 2, 2021.

High fibrinogen content in pregnant women – pathology or overdiagnosis?

An increased fibrinogen (FG) concentration during pregnancy is considered a protective mechanism against bleeding during childbirth. An enlarged amount of FG increases the aggregation of erythrocytes, blood plasma viscosity, microvascular resistance – permanent elements of the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension, stroke, coronary heart disease. It is also associated with an increased likelihood of development of preeclampsia and stroke with subsequent neurological disorders.In addition to its undeniable importance for hemostasis, FG is directly related to several physiological and pathophysiological conditions, such as infection, wound healing, tumorigenesis, and the severity of atherosclerosis. It also has a decisive role in the development of pregnancy. Maternal FG is necessary for the progress of pregnancy, as it stabilizes the utero-placental connection at the fibrinoid layer of the fetal-maternal junction. No reports on the study of pathological forms of FG in Ukraine were found.The objective: to compare the indicators of FG concentration and related elements of the blood coagulation system of pregnant and parturient women in different gestational periods and after childbirth.Materials and methods. Blood components from the ulnar vein of 30 women in labor at a gestation period of 22–27 weeks (extremely preterm birth (EPB) – I group), 37 women in labor at a term of 28–34 weeks (early preterm birth (PB) – II group) and 40 women with gestational period 37–41 weeks (control group (CG) – III group) was studied. In the collected samples the content of FG, D-dimer (Dd), prothrombin index (PI), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), as well as the levels of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Ht) and total protein (TP) of the blood plasma were determined.All women in labor were hospitalized in the active phase of the I labor period and did not receive infusion therapy. In terms of gestation, corresponding to EPB, early PB and CG, 10 pregnant women who were on outpatient registration at the Perinatal Center were examined for comparison of the studied indicators outside of labor.Indicators of the biochemical coagulogram were studied on a Helena C-2 semi-automatic coagulometer (Helena Biosciences, Great Britain).Results. The FG concentration increased from 4.2±0.56 g/l in the term 22–27 weeks to 4.4±0.57 g/l before delivery with a diapason of 3.5 to 5.0 g/l. In all parturients, the FG concentration was lower than 4.5 g/l, respectively by group: 4.5±0.81; 4.1±0.74 and 4.1±0.65 g/l (р&lt;0.05). In 24 hours after delivery the FG concentration increased in CG to 5.0±0.82 g/l, and after 48 hours – to 5.3±1.19 g/l, which exceeded the indicators of parturients of the EPB and early PB groups and pregnant women of these same terms, in which the highest indicator was 4.5±0.81 g/l in the EPB group (p&lt;0.05).An increase in the Dd index with growing gestational age was observed in all pregnant women (from 274±133.3 to 501±174.7 μg/l). It continued during the first postpartum day – up to 685±157.5 μg/l, decreased on the second day – 429±198.9 μg/l (p&lt;0.05), approaching the indicators of the EPB and early PB groups (487±267.0 and 397±202.3 μg/l; p&gt;0.05) and pregnant women of the same term.Hb decreased to 106±8.9 g/l, and Ht – to 35±6.1% with the progression of pregnancy. In parturients of the PB group, they were probably higher than the indicators of pregnant women of the corresponding terms, increasing on the second day after delivery – 110±6.7 g/l and 41±3.1%.There was no significant blood loss in the clinical groups. In all pregnant and parturient women the APTT and PI indicators varied from 27.0±3.51 s to 35.4±3.43 s and from 88±4.8% to 101±5.2%, respectively.Conclusions. 1. A gradual increase in the fibrinogen (FG) concentration with increasing gestational age from 4.2±0.56 g/l in 22–27 weeks to 4.4±0.57 g/l by the time of delivery indicates an increase in the level of FG in healthy pregnant women as an adaptive response of the body to the formation of an additional vascular system.2. An excessive FG increase is a consequence of hemoconcentration, not absolute hyperfibrinogenemia, and may be a sign of pathological processes underlying hypovolemia. In case of extremely preterm birth (EPB), the concentration of FG in the parturient was 4.5±0.81 g/l. Higher values of FG, hemoglobin, and hematocrit in parturients with EPB than in pregnant women at the same term are evidence of insufficient hemodilution, which can be considered as one of the pathogenetic mechanisms of premature labor.3. Laboratory indicators of the blood coagulation system – APTT, PI – in the absence of bleeding have no diagnostic value.

A flexible linker of 8-amino acids between the membrane binding segment and the FMN domain of cytochrome P450 reductase is necessary for optimal activity

The diflavin NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (CYPOR) plays a critical role in human cytochrome P450 (CYP) activity by sequentially delivering two electrons from NADPH to CYP enzymes during catalysis. Although electron transfer to forty-eight human CYP enzymes by the FMN hydroquinone of CYPOR is well-known, the role of the linker between the NH2-terminus membrane-binding domain (MBD) and FMN domain in supporting the activity of P450 enzymes remains poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that a linker with at least eight residues is required to form a functional CYPOR-CYP2B4 complex. The linker has been shortened in two amino-acid increments from Phe44 to Ile57 using site directed mutagenesis. The ability of the deletion mutants to support cytochrome P450 2B4 (CYP2B4) catalysis and reduce ferric CYP2B4 was determined using an in vitro assay and stopped-flow spectrophotometry. Steady-state enzyme kinetics showed that shortening the linker by 8–14 amino acids inhibited (63–99%) the ability of CYPOR to support CYP2B4 activity and significantly increased the Km of CYPOR for CYP2B4. In addition, the reductase mutants decreased the rate of reduction of ferric CYP2B4 (46–95%) compared to wildtype when the linker was shortened by 8–14 residues. These results indicate that a linker with a minimum length of eight residues is necessary to enable the FMN domain of reductase to interact with CYP2B4 to form a catalytically competent complex. Our study provides evidence that the length of the MBD-FMN domain linker is a major determinant of the ability of CYPOR to support CYP catalysis and drug metabolism by P450 enzymes. PreambleThis manuscript is dedicated in memory of Dr. James R. Kincaid who was the doctoral advisor to Dr. Freeborn Rwere and a longtime collaborator and friend of Dr. Lucy Waskell. Dr. James R. Kincaid was a distinguished professor of chemistry specializing in resonance Raman (rR) studies of heme proteins. He inspired Dr. Rwere (a Zimbabwean native) and three other Zimbabweans (Dr. Remigio Usai, Dr. Daniel Kaluka and Ms. Munyaradzi E. Manyumwa) to use lasers to document subtle changes occurring at heme active site of globin proteins (myoglobin and hemoglobin) and cytochrome P450 enzymes. Dr. Rwere appreciate his contributions to the development of talented Black scientists from Africa.

Effect of modified Baduanjin exercise on nutritional status in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a randomized controlled trial.

As a traditional Chinese fitness technique, Baduanjin is a low- to medium-intensity aerobic exercise that has a common regulatory effect on both body and mind and is also an important means of disease prevention and treatment. However, the role of Baduanjin in improving patients' nutritional status and promoting tumor recovery remains to be confirmed. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of the modified Baduanjin exercise on the nutritional status of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. This is a randomized controlled trial. The participants were recruited from patients in the Radiotherapy Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University in China. A total of 121 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma were randomly divided into the control group and the Baduanjin group. Finally, 106 patients completed the study (53 cases each in the control group and the Baduanjin group) with the intervention time from the beginning to the end of radiotherapy. The control group received conventional care (health education and regular conventional exercise), and the Baduanjin exercise group received health education and regularly improved Baduanjin exercise, with the intervention time from the beginning to the end of the radiotherapy. Patient-generated subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) was evaluated before, during (15 times), and at the end of radiotherapy as the main evaluation index to compare nutritional status between the two groups. From August 2022 to December 2022, 121 patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma were randomly divided into the control group and the Baduanjin group. During the intervention, 15 patients withdrew from the study, leading to 53 of 59 patients in the control group and 53 of 62 patients in the Baduanjin group. After the intervention, the PG-SGA score, radioactive oral mucositis, andoropharyngeal pain score were lower (P < 0.05), whereas anorexia scores,the levels of hemoglobin, albumin, prealbumin, and total protein were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Modified Baduanjin exercise can improve the nutritional status of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and deserves further clinical application. This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry under the registration number ChiCTR2200064519, registered on August 27, 2022. The public research topic is the construction and intervention research based on Internet + nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Study on the Biological Drug Enterocol’s Effect on the Nile Tilapia Breeding

Background Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a promising fish species for fish farming development in the Republic of Kazakhstan. It exemplifies a balanced and fast-growing source of flesh for future food production. In this context, optimising breeding methods is crucial for a high flesh yield and a safe product. The study delves into the potential of the Enterocol drug in enhancing Nile tilapia breeding, focusing on assessing muscle state and blood parameters. Objects Two groups of fish were utilized, with 20 specimens in each group. One set was the control group, and the other was the experimental group. The single difference between the fish groups was the Enterocol consumption by the experimental specimens, which were given an E. coli 64G strain concentration of 108 CFU in mL and a 5% daily dose of fish body weight three times daily for two months. Methods Blood parameters were analysed to assess the health of the fish groups. Subsequently, classical pathological methods were employed, such as macroscopic and microscopic assessments of each group's fish material. A histological analysis was also performed to assess the condition of the muscles. Results Examining the experimental group's muscles revealed a significant average increase in fish mass and 6.74% total body weight growth. Moreover, the total thickness of the muscle layer decreased as villi height increased, indicating a clear fibre structure. Haematological analysis unveiled elevated levels of haemoglobin, erythrocytes, leucocytes, and total protein in the experimental fish group, indicating improved health. These findings underscore the potential of the Enterocol drug in enhancing fish health and productivity. Conclusion Based on the results, it can be concluded that using Enterocol in fish breeding plants can effectively enhance flesh quality and safety, providing a secure and reliable solution for the aquaculture industry.

Studies of Light Scattering by Hemoglobin Molecules under the Effect of Iron (III) Chloride and Various pH Levels

A lot of literature sources discuss diseases associated with the hemoglobin protein [1, 2]. In the modern world, more than 800 million people suffer from anemia [3]. Assessing the level of hemoglobin in the circulatory system is one of the ways to diagnose anemia. Hemoglobin protein is also a promising source of bioactive peptides [4]. The aim of the work was to identify the reasons leading to conformation changes of this protein. It still remains unclear what exactly causes disruption of its functionality. Human hemoglobin from Sigma H7379 was studied in the work; all experiments were conducted on a dynamic light scattering spectrometer — Photocor Complex. Experimental data were obtained using optical methods of static and dynamic light scattering. The work included an analysis of the behaviour of hemoglobin protein molecules in aqueous and aqueous-saline solutions with changes in solution parameters (pH, addition of iron chloride III). At values of pH&lt; (3.56±0.15) and pH&gt; (10.4±0.2), the hemoglobin molecule underwent conformational changes, resulting in the disintegration of the quaternary structure into αβ−dimers and individual α− and β−globules. As a result of the study, it was found that the addition of FeCl3 to aqueous solutions of hemoglobin increases the size and mass of scattering particles, which can be explained by the adsorption of Fe3+ ions on the protein surface. However, upon reaching a certain concentration of FeCl3, the pH of the solution was lowered to such an extent that it caused conformational changes in hemoglobin, leading to the disintegration of its quaternary structure. These results can be taken into account when creating medicinal drugs for the treatment of anemia and other diseases associated with the hemoglobin protein.

The features analysis of hemoglobin expression on visual information transmission pathway in early stage of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized primarily by cognitive impairment. The motivation of this paper is to explore the impact of the visual information transmission pathway (V–H pathway) on AD, and the following feature were observed: Hemoglobin expression on the V–H pathway becomes dysregulated as AD occurs so as to the pathway becomes dysfunctional. According to the feature, the following conclusion was proposed: As AD occurs, abnormal tau proteins penetrate bloodstream and arrive at the brain regions of the pathway. Then the tau proteins or other toxic substances attack hemoglobin molecules. Under the attack, hemoglobin expression becomes more dysregulated. The dysfunction of V–H pathway has an impact on early symptoms of AD, such as spatial recognition disorder and face recognition disorder.

Clinical Characteristics of Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19 and Their Association With the Progression to Critical Illness and Death: A Single-Center Retrospective Study From Northwestern Mexico.

The objective of this study was to associate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 with the progression to critical illness and death in northwestern Mexico. From March to October 2020, we collected the demographic and clinical characteristics of 464 hospitalized patients from northwestern Mexico. Sixty-four percent (295/464) of the patients became critically ill. Age, occupation, steroid and antibiotic use at previous hospitalization, and underlying diseases (hypertension, obesity, and chronic kidney disease) were associated with critical illness or death (p: < 0.05). No symptoms were associated with critical illness. However, the parameters such as the heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and diastolic pressure and the laboratory parameters such as the glucose, creatinine, white line cells, hemoglobin, D-dimer, and C-reactive protein, among others, were associated with critical illness (p: < 0.05). Finally, advanced age, previous hospital treatment, and the presence of one or more underlying diseases were associated with critical illness and death (p: < 0.02). Several epidemiological (e.g., age and occupation) and clinical factors (e.g., previous treatment, underlying diseases, and vital signs and laboratory parameters) were associated with critical illness and death in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. These data provide us with possible markers to avoid critical illness or death from COVID-19 in our region.