Ig Concentrations Research Articles

Anesthetic efficacy of two plant phenolics and the physiological response of juvenile Ictalurus punctatus to simulated transport

The live transport of juvenile channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) is an important part of channel catfish breeding in China, but the anesthetic dose and physiological response of channel catfish after transport have not been studied yet. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential of eugenol and thymol in live transport and study their anesthetic effects of on juvenile channel catfish by analyzing a large number of parameters associated with stress and nonspecific immunity. First we tested eugenol and thymol concentrations of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 100 mg/L. Eugenol successfully anesthetized the experimental fish at concentrations of 30–100 mg/L for 1258–82 s (resuscitation time was 147–300 s), while thymol was effective at 20–100 mg/L for 1612–81 s (recovery time was 333–475 s). The second experiment involved adding 10 and 20 mg/L of eugenol and thymol (4 groups) to the water, simulating transport (5 h), analyzing the stress and non-specific immune parameters of the serum, and determining gene expression changes in the liver and head kidney for 48 h. Anesthetics in the transport water inhibited the increase in serum cortisol levels (treatment group: 39.81–60.79 ng/mL, control group: 142.14 ng/mL), and Hsp90 in the liver was a more suitable biomarker for transport stress in channel catfish than Hsp70. Concentrations of serum total Ig, lysozyme, lectin, and ACH50, as well as the expression levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-8, and TNF-α) and pattern recognition receptors (NOD-1) in the head kidney increased. The expression of cytokines and NOD-1 in the head kidney returned to the pre-transport level after 48 h. Both anesthetics are suitable for channel catfish, but thymol is more suitable as a transport sedative. The results of this study could help maintain the health of juvenile channel catfish after live transport, decrease their infection and mortality, improve wellbeing, and reduce economic losses to the aquaculture industry.

A dynamic mammary gland model describing colostrum immunoglobulin transfer and milk production in lactating sows.

The physiology of the sow mammary gland is qualitatively well described and understood. However, the quantitative effect of various biological mechanisms contributing to the synthesis of colostrum and milk is lacking and more complicated to obtain. The objective of this study was to integrate physiological and empirical knowledge of the production of colostrum and milk in a dynamic model of a single sow mammary gland to understand and quantify parameters controlling mammary gland output. In 1983, Heather Neal and John Thornley published a model of the mammary gland in cattle, which was used as a starting point for the development of this model. The original cattle model was reparameterized, modified, and extended to describe the production of milk by the sow mammary gland during lactation and the prepartum production of colostrum as the combined output of immunoglobulins (Ig) and milk. Initially, the model was reparameterized to simulate milk synthesis potential of a single gland by considering biological characteristics and empirical estimations of sows and piglets. Secondly, the model was modified to simulate more accurately the responses to changes in milk removal rates. This was done by linking the ejectable milk storage capacity to the number of secretory cells rather than being constant throughout lactation. Finally, the model was extended to include the prepartum synthesis of milk and the kinetics of Ig into and out of the mammary gland. A progressive capacity of secretory cells to synthesize milk was used to differentiate the time between the onset of milk synthesis and Ig transfer. Changes in maximum milk removal rate, duration of milk ejection, and nursing interval exerted a great impact on the modeled milk output. Changes by ±60% in one of these parameters were capable of increasing milk output by 28% to 39% during the first 4 wk in lactation compared with the reference parameterization. This suggests that the ability of the piglet to remove milk from the gland exerts a key control on milk synthesis during lactation. Modeling colostrum as the combined output of Ig and milk allowed to represent the rapid decline in Ig concentration observed during the first hours after farrowing. In conclusion, biological and empirical knowledge was integrated into a model of the sow mammary gland and constitutes a simple approach to explore in which conditions and to what extent individual parameters influence Ig kinetics and milk production.

Determination of the Immunoglobulin G Spectrum by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Using Quasispherical Gold Nanoparticles

Background. Immunoglobulins (Ig) are glycoprotein molecules produced by plasma cells in response to antigenic stimuli involved in various physiological and pathological conditions. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a compound whose composition corresponds to Ig concentrations in human plasma, predominantly IgG. It is used as a replacement treatment in immunodeficiencies and as an immunomodulator in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The determination of IgG concentrations is useful in the diagnosis of these immunodeficiencies. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a technique that allows protein quantification in a fast and straightforward way. Objective. This study is aimed at determining the Raman spectrum of IgG at physiological concentrations using quasispherical gold nanoparticles as a SERS substrate. Methods. We initially determined the Raman spectrum of IVIG at 5%. Subsequently, for SERS’ characterization, decreasing dilutions of the protein were made by adding deionized water and an equal volume of the 5 nm gold quasispherical nanoparticle colloid. For each protein concentration, the Raman spectrum was determined using a 10x objective; we focused the 532 and 785 nm laser on the sample surface, in a range of 500-1800 cm-1, with five acquisitions and an acquisition time of 30 seconds. Results. We obtained the IVIG spectrum using SERS up to a concentration of 75 mg/dl. The Raman bands correspond to aromatic amino acid side chains and the characteristic beta-sheet structure of IgG. Conclusion. The use of 5 nm quasispherical gold nanoparticles as a SERS substrate allows for detecting the Raman spectrum of IVIG at physiological concentrations.

Supplementation of antioxidant micronutrients reduces stress and improves immune function/response in periparturient dairy cows and their calves

BackgroundPeriparturient period induces stress in cows which fluctuates hormonal and metabolic function and causes immune suppression. Apart from impairing the health, production, and reproduction of cows, it also influences the well-being of newborn calves by decreasing the colostrum quality. Micronutrients are known for optimal health and production and their effects on parturition stress, immune response in both cow and its calf need to be explored. AimThe aim of this study was to see the effect of oral supplementation of micronutrients during the prepartum period on the health status of crossbred dairy cows and subsequently on their newborn calves. MethodsA total of 42 healthy multiparous cows were selected and randomly divided into five groups with seven cows in each group, i.e. control (Basal Diet, BD), VA group (BD + vitamin A, 105 IU), Zn group (BD + zinc sulphate, 60 ppm), VE group (BD + vitamin E, 2500 IU), and combined supplementation (CS) group (BD + combination of VA, Zn, and VE). The supplements were offered in compounded concentrate DM (100 g) to individual cows once daily before the morning feeding and the remaining portion was incorporated in the TMR. Feeding was started one month before the expected days of calving till calving. Blood samples were collected from cows at days -15, -7, -3, 0, +3, +7, and +15 relative to the day of calving. Blood samples from newborn calves and milk samples of cows were collected at days 0, +3, +7, and +15. Milk somatic cell counts (SCC) were estimated using a cell counter. Cortisol was estimated by ELISA kit in blood and milk plasma of cows and in the blood plasma of their calves. Total immunoglobulins (Ig) were estimated in milk of cows and serum of calves using zinc sulphate turbidity method. Blood neutrophils from cows and calves were studied for phagocytic activity (PA) using nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) assay.Data were analysed by repeated-measures two-way ANOVA using the mixed procedure of SAS, and the pairwise comparison was performed using a multiple comparison test (Tukey). ResultsCombined supplementation of micronutrients decreased (P < 0.05) maternal blood plasma (control vs. CS group, 5.98 ± 0.20 vs. 3.86 ± 0.23 ng/mL) and milk plasma (3.96 ± 0.13 vs. 2.71 ± 0.10 ng/mL) cortisol, milk SCC (3.05 ± 0.11 vs. 2.12 ± 0.10 × 105 cells/mL) and increased (P < 0.05) total milk Ig concentration (18.80 ± 0.11 vs. 23.04 ± 0.57 mg/mL) and the PA of blood neutrophils (0.84 ± 0.03 vs. 1.07 ± 0.03). Similarly, lower blood cortisol concentration (9.69 ± 0.35 vs. 6.02 ± 0.18 ng/mL) and higher (P < 0.05) total Ig (23.26 ± 0.11 vs. 30.34 ± 0.70 mg/mL) and PA of blood neutrophils (0.37 ± 0.02 vs. 0.52 ± 0.02) were observed in the calves born to CS group of cows as compared to the control. Highest (P < 0.05) positive effects (lower stress levels and higher immune response) of treatment were noticed in CS group followed by VE group and then Zn group. However, VA group didn’t differ from the control group. ConclusionOur results indicate that micronutrient interventions during the prepartum period can improve the health status of dairy calves and subsequently the well-being of their calves.

Effects of noise and low-concentration carbon monoxide exposure on rat immunity.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the immunotoxicity and effects of noise and/or low‐concentration carbon monoxide (CO) exposure on immune organs and immune functions in rats.MethodsMale Wistar rats exposed to 98 dB(A) white noise and/or 100 ppm CO 4 h/d for 30 d were used to determine the pathological changes in the thymus and spleen, and variations in leukocyte counts, inflammatory factors, and immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations.ResultsThe boundaries of the cortex and medulla of the thymus were unclear following noise and combined exposure. The pathological changes in spleen after CO and combined exposure included blurred boundaries of red‐pulp and white‐pulp, disappearance of normal splenic nodules and neutrophil infiltration. After exposure to noise and in combination, leukocyte and lymphocyte counts decreased significantly. After exposure to low‐concentration CO and in combination, serum IgM and IgG levels decreased significantly, but the levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α and interferon‐γ levels increased significantly. Eosinophils and IgA levels decreased significantly following exposure to noise and/or low concentration of CO, while the level of interleukin‐1 increased significantly. Monocytes increased significantly only under noise or CO exposure, but not under combined exposure.ConclusionsNoise and/or low‐concentration CO exposure may suppress innate and adaptive immune functions and induce inflammatory responses. Noise exposure mainly affected the innate immune function of rats, whereas low‐concentration CO exposure mainly affected adaptive immune functions. Combined exposure presented higher immunotoxicity than noise or CO alone, suggesting that exposure to noise and low‐concentration CO in the living and working environments can affect the immune system.

Improved Nocturnal Glycaemia and Reduced Insulin Use Following Clinical Exercise Trial Participation in Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes.

Aim: To explore the influence of clinical exercise trial participation on glycaemia and insulin therapy use in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).Research Design and Methods: This study involved a secondary analysis of data collected from 16 individuals with T1D who completed a randomized clinical trial consisting of 23-h in-patient phases with a 45-min evening bout of moderate intensity continuous exercise. Participants were switched from their usual basal-bolus therapy to ultra-long acting insulin degludec and rapid-acting insulin aspart as well as provided with unblinded interstitial flash-glucose monitoring systems. To assess the impact of clinical trial participation, weekly data obtained at the screening visit (pre-study involvement) were compared against those collated on the last experimental visit (post-study involvement). Interstitial glucose [iG] data were split into distinct glycaemic ranges and stratified into day (06:00–23:59) and night (00:00–05:59) time periods. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was accepted for significance.Results: Following study completion, there were significant decreases in both the mean nocturnal iG concentration (Δ-0.9 ± 4.5 mmol.L−1, p < 0.001) and the time spent in severe hyperglycaemia (Δ-7.2 ± 9.8%, p = 0.028) during the night-time period. The total daily (Δ-7.3 ± 8.4 IU, p = 0.003) and basal only (Δ-2.3 ± 3.8 IU, p = 0.033) insulin dose requirements were reduced over the course of study involvement.Conclusions: Participation in clinical research may foster improved nocturnal glycaemia and reduced insulin therapy use in people with T1D. Recognition of these outcomes may help encourage volunteers to partake in clinical research opportunities for improved diabetes-related health outcomes.Clinical Trial Registration: DRKS.de; DRKS00013509.

FETAL INFECTIONS OPTIMIZATION OF PREGNANCY AND DELIVERY INTRODUCTION

The aim: Improving perinatal outcomes in pregnant women at high risk of intrauterine infection by developing diagnostic criteria and algorithms for managing pregnancy and childbirth. Materials and methods: The study of pregnancy and childbirth was conducted in 72 patients at high risk of IUI, which formed the main group. The control group consisted of 64 patients with a low infectious risk of IUI. Culture, bacterioscopic and biochemical methods were used to identify microorganisms. Peculiarities of infection in the examined women were investigated by determining the concentration of Ig M and IgG in the blood serum and performed polymerase chain reaction for measles virus, cytomegalovirus, parvovirus B19. Serum for the presence of specific immune globulins to these pathogens was examined by ELISA. Comprehensive ultrasound examination in B-mode was performed to determine the feto metry of the fetus and assess its development with the determination of the estimated mass, location, size and structure of the placenta, the amount of amniotic fluid. To determine the condition of the fetus, a Doppler study of blood flow in the uterine arteries, umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery of the fetus and venous duct. Results: Analyzing the course of this pregnancy in women of the studied groups threatened miscarriage and the threat of premature birth occurred in 24 (33.3%) cases, with signs of isthmic-cervical insufficiency were diagnosed in 13 (18.1%) patients. In the control group of patients, the threat of abortion was diagnosed in 15 (23.4%) patients. According to ultrasound examination, patients in the main group in 12 (16.7%) cases were diagnosed with fetal growth retardation, in 25 (34.7%) patients at high risk of IUI there were changes in the placenta, namely, hyper echogenic inclusions in the placenta occurred in 7 (9.7%) cases, dilation of the intervillous space in 8 (11.1%) cases, placental hyperplasia in 7 (9.7%) cases, polyhydramnios was diagnosed in only 5 (6), 9%) cases, with 1 (1.4%) acute polyhydramnios in patients with signs of acute respiratory viral infection during pregnancy. Conclusions: Women at high risk for IUI require close monitoring of the fetus due to the increased frequency of hemodynamic changes in uteroplacental-fetal circulation, including fetal-placental - 22.2% and the occurrence of intrauterine growth retardation. Women with suspected cytomegalovirus infection require determination of seroconversion; in case of immunologically confirmed infection, it is desirable to recognize PCR for cytomegalovirus in the amniotic fluid in order to determine further management and monitoring of this pregnancy.

Impact of downstream passage through hydropower plants on the physiological and health status of a critically endangered species: The European eel Anguilla anguilla

Hydropower plants (HPPs) are a source of “green” energy but also a threat to migrating fish such as the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) owing to the disruption of river connectivity and the obstruction of downstream migration. The impact of HPP are well-documented in terms of fish survival and damages but there is no available information concerning the condition of surviving and unharmed fish. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of the passage through HPP on the survival, the physiological and health status of adult eels. Two trials were carried with variants of the Kaplan turbine - one of the most common types in Europe. After a deliberate passage through the turbines, we studied direct mortality, external and internal damages, stress and immune biomarkers such as plasma cortisol and glucose levels, alternative complement (ACH50), lysozyme and peroxidase activities, and total immunoglobulin (Ig) content. Our results showed a lower survival and a higher external and internal damages rates in the HPP groups. Glucose levels, ACH50, lysozyme and peroxidase activities and TIgc were also affected by the passage depending on HPP characteristics. Those findings suggest a greater energy expenditure and a disruption in innate immunity due to this passage. HPPs can not only have an impact in terms of direct mortality and injuries but also affect the physiological and health condition of the surviving eels. This impact may explain the delayed mortality observed in telemetric studies and the passage through many HPPs may compromise the ability of adult eels to migrate successfully to the ocean.

Coenzyme Q10 attenuates airway inflammation and oxidative stress in neonatal asthmatic rats

Purpose: To determine the therapeutic effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on ovalbumin (OVA)-provoked asthma in neonatal rats.Methods: Asthma was induced by exposing neonatal rats to OVA. The levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, MDA and MPO were estimated using standard biochemical kits, while ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of Ig E and Th2 cytokines. Gene expressions were assayed with qRT-PCR, and protein expressions were determined with western blotting.Results: OVA treatment led to increases in levels of BALF inflammatory cells, lipid peroxidation, serum IgE and BALF Th2 cytokines, but it decreased antioxidant levels. Furthermore, the protein expression of NF-κB and mRNA expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were upregulated in the asthmatic rats (p &lt; 0.05). However, coenzyme Q10 supplementation significantly decreased lipid peroxidation, and reduced inflammatory cells and IgE levels, while the antioxidant levels were enhanced (p &lt; 0.05). Moreover, coenzyme Q10 reduced the levels of Th2 cytokines and downregulated the expressions of NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-6, and iNOS in the neonatal asthmatic rats (p &lt; 0.05).Conclusion: Coenzyme Q10 attenuates airway inflammation and oxidative stress in neonatal asthmatic rats. Thus, coenzyme Q10 has promising therapeutic potential in the management of asthma.&#x0D; Keywords: Asthma, Neonatal, Coenzyme Q10, Th2, cytokines, Oxidative stress, Antiinflammation

Light Chain Predominant Intact Immunoglobulin Monoclonal Gammopathy Disorders: Shorter Survival in Light Chain Predominant Multiple Myelomas.

A proportion of intact immunoglobulin (Ig)-producing multiple myelomas (MMs) was observed to secrete much higher amounts of free light chains (LCs) than usual. To determine the change point between usual and LC-predominant intact Ig-secreting MMs and other monoclonal gammopathic manifestations and the biological significance of the observation. We conducted retrospective examination of laboratory findings in 386 MM, 27 smoldering MM, and 179 monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) cases that secreted intact Igs. We recorded the highest levels of involved serum free LC, highest ratio of involved to uninvolved LC, highest concentration of involved LC per g of monoclonal Ig, and highest value for ratio of involved to uninvolved LCs divided by the monoclonal Ig concentration. Each data set was sorted into kappa- and lambda LC-associated lesions. Length of time, in months, between diagnosis and last contact with the patients having myeloma was recorded. Change point analysis of data revealed a subgroup of cases with distinctly higher levels of free LCs. In myelomas, including plasma cell leukemias, 16.4% of myelomas with kappa LCs and 22.3% of myelomas with lambda LCs, the LC secretion was distinctly higher than in the remaining cases, by a combination of 4 parameters, listed herein. Corresponding figures for smoldering myeloma (SMM) and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) were 12.5, 27.3, 3.8, and 6.8, respectively. Ten of the 13 (77%) cases of plasma cell leukemia) and all cases of IgD myeloma (n = 4) showed excess secretion of serum free LCs. Among IgG and IgA myelomas, including plasma cell leukemias, the LC-predominant lesions had shorter survival, by an average of 22.5 months. In total, 18.4% of MMs, including plasma cell leukemias, secrete distinctly higher amounts of serum free LCs than other intact Ig-secreting myelomas and confer significantly lower survival. Quantification of monoclonal serum free LCs may be useful in this subgroup in monitoring progress and potentially in ascertaining minimal residual disease. The findings also stress the need for separate criteria for kappa and lambda LC associated monoclonal gammopathic manifestations. The significantly shorter survival of patients with LC-predominant myelomas warrants consideration in prospective trials of treatments.

Pre- and Probiotics to Increase the Immune Power of Colostrum in Dogs.

Wide differences in Ig concentration in canine colostrum have been reported. Thus, some litters can be at risk of passive immune transfer failure. Present study evaluated if supplementation with MOS, FOS, E. faecium and L. acidophilus along pregnancy increases colostrum quality. Twenty Great Dane bitches were divided into 4 groups. Control group (CG) received standard diet, only. Diet was supplemented with pre- and probiotics in other 3 study groups during: the last (1WG), last 2 (2WG), and last 4 (4WG) weeks of pregnancy, until parturition. Serum samples were collected at estrous (T0), supplementation beginning (T1), and parturition (T2). Colostrum was collected at C-section end. The IgG, IgM, and IgA were assayed on both matrices. In serum, IgG were higher at T0 than at parturition in all study groups and they significantly lowered from T0 to T1 in all groups. In colostrum, IgG and IgM were significantly higher in 4WG, while IgA already increased in 2WG group. Four-week pre- and probiotic supplementation resulted in the best immune properties of colostrum, as by the higher IgG, IgM, and IgA colostrum levels found in 4WG. Further studies would verify the exact mechanisms involved: pre-partum IgG mammary accumulation and B-cells GALT proliferation and mammary transfer. Further trials would verify whether these beneficial effects of pre- and probiotics on colostrum also lead to improved clinical conditions and immunological functions of newborns and puppies.

ТЕРАПЕВТИЧЕСКАЯ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТЬ ЭНТРИКИМА ПРИ ЭНЗООТИЧЕСКОЙ ПНЕВМОНИИ СВИНЕЙ

The number of T-lymphocytes in the subacute course decreases to 28.9±1.4% and in the chronic course it increased to 69.1±1.2%. However, against the background of lymphopenia, the absolute value of lymphocytes also decreased to 0.70±0.038·109 /l in the acute form of the disease. In chronic pneumonia, the number of lymphocytes was at the level of 0.44±0.04·109 /l. The T-x/T-c ratio also changed, depending on the form of enzootic pneumonia. With subacute – 1.7, and with chronic – 2.28. The entrikim treatment of piglets with a subacute course carried out for 7 days and a blood test 5 days after the implementation of sanitation showed that the number of Tlymphocytes increased twofold to 1.40±0.04·109 /l, while the Tx/Tc ratio was 2, 28, which corresponds to the physiological norm. After the treatment of piglets with a chronic course, all analyzed parameters characterizing the state of T-cell immunity testified to its normal functioning. A decrease in the total number of T-lymphocytes, individual EAK populations, indicate a depressive state of lymphopoiesis. A decrease in the number of T-lymphocytes to 0.44±0.04·109 /l in chronic course up to indicates a deep suppression of cellular immunity. In the subacute form of the disease, the number of B-lymphocytes decreased to 14.07±1.92%, but increased to 32.64±0.3% in the chronic course. But against the background of lymphopenia in subacute form, the absolute value of lymphocytes decreased to 0.36±0.04·109 /l, and in chronic lymphopenia to 0.20±0.06·109 /l. In the subacute form of the disease, the content of Ig A (1.49±0.03 mg/ml) and Ig G (1.39±0.02 mg/ml) does not differ from healthy animals, but a low level of Ig M (11.0±0.12 mg/ml) indicates a negative effect of mycoplasmas on humoral immunity. In chronic course, there is a sharp decrease (by 30%) Ig A to 1.49±0.03 and vice versa, a sharp increase by 30% in the Ig G content (11.8±011 mg/ml). After treatment of piglets with a subacute course of the disease, the number of B-lymphocytes increased by 2 times, and after treatment with m with a chronic course of the disease, by 3.5 times to 0.70±0.04·109 /L. The use of entrikim has a positive effect on humoral immunity, as the amount of Ig G increases by 45%. The therapeutic efficacy of entrikim increases due to the synergistic interaction of enrofloxacin, trimethoprim and tilmicosin phosphate. The therapeutic efficacy of entrikim in the subacute course was 90.7%, and in the chronic one – 74.4%.

Immunodepressant and oxidant potential of standard leukaemia drug regimen

Chemotherapy improves cancer status but also could carry a risk of harmful side effects. In leukaemia patients, oxidative status and immune system are crucial parameters for patient improvement. The present study is aimed to assess the oxidative stress and the levels of immunoglobulin, including; IgG, IgA, and IgM in acute myelocytic leukaemias (AML) patients. A total of twenty-one patients with AML were enrolled in this study, alongside 24 healthy individuals as a control group. Initially, in both groups, the serum MDA, IgA, IgG, and IgM levels were measured. Then after a month of treatment with standard leukaemia therapy; the measurement of levels of these parameters were repeated for both the patients’ group and the control group for measuring immunoglobulin levels while analysis of MDA was done by the laboratory method. A highly significant rise in the serum MDA level was detected (P&amp;lt;0.001) in patients with AML after treatment with specific cytotoxic drugs was observed in comparison with the control. Moreover, there was a significant modulation in the serum concentration of Ig after starting cytotoxic drugs in comparison with the controls. The study revealed that AML was associated with elevated oxidative stress parameters following treatment with cytotoxic drugs as reflected by the rise in the serum levels of MDA. The decreased serum Ig levels indicate a reduction in immune response in patients with AML due to cytotoxic drugs.

Alterations of Total Serum Immunoglobulin Concentrations in Pemphigus and Pemphigoid: Selected IgG2 Deficiency in Bullous Pemphigoid.

Pemphigus and pemphigoid diseases are organ-specific autoimmune diseases of the skin and/or mucous membranes, which are caused by autoantibodies targeting structural proteins of the skin. In other autoimmune diseases, a high prevalence of primary antibody deficiencies was noted. Conversely, a high prevalence of autoimmune diseases is reported in patients with primary antibody deficiencies. With the exception of one study, pointing toward a decrease of IgG in pemphigus patients, with a relative enrichment of IgG4, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations had not been studied in pemphigus and pemphigoid. Hence, we here aimed to investigate serum concentrations of IgM, IgA, IgG, and IgG1–4 in pemphigus and pemphigoid patients, as well as in healthy controls. Serum Ig concentrations were determined by ELISA in 105 healthy controls, 100 pemphigus vulgaris (PV), 100 pemphigus foliaceus, 99 bullous pemphigoid (BP), and 55 linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LAD) patients. In healthy controls, age had a significant impact on Ig serum concentrations: In controls at ages of 69 years or older, IgM and IgG were decreased, while all other Ig, except IgA and IgG4, were increased. When stratified by sex, lower IgM concentrations were observed in males. When corrected for age and/or sex, and compared to controls, an increase in serum IgA was noted in LAD. In almost all patient cohorts, an increase in IgG1 and IgG4 was observed, while a decrease in IgG2 or IgG3 was seen in BP or PV patients. This points toward a possible association of BP with IgG2 deficiency and warrants evaluation of IgG2 in BP patients prior to immunosuppressive therapy.

Effects of a two-phase mixed color lighting program using light-emitting diode lights on layer chickens during brooding and rearing periods.

The behavior, growth and development, and production performance of poultry are affected by the light environment. The influence of light results from a combination of light sources, light intensity, light color, and the photoperiod regimen. With light-emitting diode (LED) lamps applied in poultry housing systems, specific light colors are desired for each time period for layer chickens. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a 2-phase mixed color lighting program (phase 1: blue-green, 1 D–13 wk; phase 2: yellow-orange, 14–20 wk) using LED lights on the blood parameters, skeletal development parameters, and sexual development parameters of caged layer chickens during their brooding and rearing periods. Fifty-two chickens were raised from 1 D to 20 wk of age in each of the 4 treatment groups with 3 replicates, with white (400–700 nm) light at phase 1 and phase 2 (WL treatment as the control); blue–green (435–565 nm) light at phase 1 followed by yellow–orange (565–630 nm) light at phase 2 (BG-YOL treatment); yellow–orange LED (565–630 nm) light at phase 1 and phase 2 (YOL treatment); and blue–green (435–565 nm) light at phase 1 and phase 2 (BGL treatment). The results showed that the serum Ig concentrations of the layer chickens in the BG-YOL treatment and BGL treatment were higher than those in the WL treatment at 13 wk of age (P < 0.05). At the age of 20 wk, the serum glucose concentration levels of the pullets after the WL and BGL treatments were lower than those after the YOL treatment (P < 0.05). Compared with the WL treatment, the YOL treatment significantly increased the bone mineral density of the layer chickens (P < 0.05), and BG-YOL treatment promoted the development of the sexual organs (oviducts and ovaries) of the laying hens at the age of 20 wk (P < 0.05). For the 50% egg production age, the YOL treatment was earlier than the other 3 treatments. This study demonstrated that appropriately staged spectral control using LED lights could have positive effects on the immune performance, bone development, and production performance of caged layer chickens during their brooding and rearing periods.

The effect of supplementation with omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to mares during late gestation and early lactation on the transfer of passive immunity in foals

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids supplementation to mares during late gestation and early lactation on the transfer of passive immunity in foals. Seventeen mares and their respective foals were included in this study. Supplementation consisted of the addition of oil corresponding to 0.05% of the mares’ body weight. Mares received one of three supplementation protocols: (1) basal diet without the addition of oil (CON, n = 7); (2) basal diet supplemented with soybean oil (SO, n = 6); or (3) basal diet supplemented with linseed oil (LO, n = 4). The oil supplement was measured and mixed into the concentrate. Supplementation started 3 months before the expected parturition date and continued until 15 days postpartum. Foals were fed exclusively with mares’ milk. To analyze the transfer of passive immunity, immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations in colostrum, milk and blood serum samples from foals were determined. Lymphocyte proliferation analysis of mares and foals was performed using blood samples. Concentrations of IgM and IgA in foals and colostrum of mares did not differ in supplementation groups (p > 0.05). There was a tendency for higher IgGa values ​​(p = 0.08) in C1 and C2 isotypes and IgGb (C1, p = 0.07; C2, p = 0.09) in colostrum. Foals from mares supplemented with flaxseed oil showed higher lymphocyte proliferation on day 7 after birth (p < 0.05). There were no significant effects from omega-3 and 6 supplementations in mares on the passive immunity transfer in foals.

Calidad del calostro bovino y su relación con la genética, el manejo, la fisiología y su congelación

Objetivo. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron evaluar si la calidad del calostro se modifica por las características genéticas, fisiológicas y de manejo en el período pre-parto, así como evaluar si la calidad y composición del calostro se altera en el proceso de congelación. Material y métodos. En el experimento I, se recogieron muestras de calostro y sangre de 35 vacas (18 Holstein y 17 Jerseys). En el experimento II, se recolectaron seis muestras de calostro de vacas Holstein y se congelaron durante 60 días. Resultados. La concentración media de inmunoglobulina G (IgG) fue de 77.65 mg/ml en Jersey y de 82.77 mg/ml en Holstein. La genética, el orden de parto y la interacción entre estos factores no fueron significativos en la concentración de IgG en el calostro. Además, se observó un efecto genético de la vaca en el peso en la cría al nacer y en los tres días de edad (p&lt;0.0001). Las razas de becerros Holstein (83%) y Jersey (82%) mostraron niveles de proteína sérica total por encima de 5.5 g/dL. Las vacas Holstein alojadas en potreros individuales con suplementos dietéticos, proporcionaron una mejor calidad de calostro (93.57 mg IgG/mL). Con el tiempo, el porcentaje de grasa cambió al congelarse, que se redujo con el tiempo (p&lt;0.05) en el Experimento II. Conclusiones. El manejo previo al parto influye en la calidad del calostro, y la congelación no interfiere en la calidad centesimal e inmunológica del calostro, con excepción de la grasa, que disminuye a lo largo del tiempo.

Technical note: Capillary electrophoresis as a rapid test for the quantification of immunoglobulin G in serum of newborn lambs

Finding a rapid and simple method of serum IgG determination in lambs is essential for monitoring failure of passive transfer of immunity. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of capillary electrophoresis (CE), an instrument mainly used in blood serum protein analysis, to estimate IgG content in serum of newborn lambs through determination of only total Ig percentage by comparing the results with those obtained with radial immunodiffusion (RID), the reference method for serum IgG quantification. Serum samples were collected at 24 h after birth from 40 Sarda lambs. The IgG concentration measured by RID and serum total Ig concentration measured by CE were (mean ± standard deviation) 29.8 ± 16.1 g/L and 37.8 ± 15.0%, respectively. Data provided by RID and CE analysis showed a polynomial trend (RID = 0.02CE2 - 0.04CE + 4.13; coefficient of determination, R2 = 0.96), displaying a strong relationship between these 2 methods. Applying the polynomial equation, the IgG values were predicted. Predicted IgG values were highly correlated (r = 0.98) and related (R2 = 0.96) to IgG values obtained by RID assay. These data were subjected to Bland-Altman analysis, revealing a high level of agreement between CE and RID methods with a bias that was not different from 0 (-0.04 g/L) and agreement limits of -6.38 g/L (low) and +6.30 g/L (high). In addition, the linear regression analysis between differences (dependent variable) and average of IgG concentration by CE and RID (independent variable) did not show proportional bias (R2 = 0.01). In conclusion, CE is a reliable instrument for a lamb health monitoring program, where Bland-Altman analysis also confirmed that the CE method can be a suitable alternative to RID.

The level of serum and vaginal immunoglobulins in experimental vaginitis and its pharmacological correction

The problem of searching effective drugs for the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the female genital tract, which are accompanied by changes in the immune system, remains relevant. The purpose of the study – to investigate the level of immunoglobulins A, M, G and secretory immunoglobulin A in blood serum and vaginal washings in experimental vaginitis and in conditions of using new vaginal suppositories Melanizol and Klimedeks. Materials and methods. The study was conducted using non-linear sexually mature female rats weighing 190 ±10 g. Vaginitis was modeled by a single intravaginal application of an irritant, presented by the mixture of terebenthine oil with dimethyl sulfoxide. We studied the effect of the vaginal suppositories Melanizol and Klimedeks and the reference drugs: suppositories Gravagin, vaginal tablets Micogynax and Suppositories with Hippophaes oleum. At the end of the 8-day experimental period, the concentration of immunoglobulins IgA, IgM, IgG and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in blood serum and vaginal washings were studied. Results. The absence of significant changes in the concentration of Ig A, M, G in the serum of rats with experimental vaginitis and the tendency to increase in levels of Ig A, M, G in vaginal washings compared with indicators in intact animals. The serum and vaginal sIg A values were 2.5 and 1.4 times decreased in rats with vaginitis, respectively, compared with the intact controls. All studied drugs increased the concentration of the secretory immunoglobulin, and suppositories Klimedeks had a more significant effect. Conclusions. Experimental vaginitis is characterized by a tendency to an increase in the concentration of Ig A, M, G in the vaginal washings and a significant decrease in the levels of serum and vaginal sIg A. The studied suppositories Melanizole and Klimedeks are as effective as Gravagin, Micogynax and Suppositories with Hippophaes oleum.

Стан лактації у породіль залежно від сімейного становища

The article presents the results of a study of the state of lactation in single and married women in childbirth. The objective: to assess the quantitative and qualitative composition of breast milk in single women on the background of a comprehensive algorithm of therapeutic and preventive measures during pregnancy and childbirth. Materials and methods. The quantitative and qualitative composition of breast milk was assessed in 50 single women against the backdrop of the proposed complex algorithm (main group I), in 50 single women (main group II) and 50 married women (comparison group) with conventional pregnancy and childbirth. To study the state of lactation, the dynamics reflecting changes in the quantity and quality of breast milk were determined in the dynamics of the postpartum period (1, 3, and 7 days). Results. Assessment of the state of lactation revealed hypogalactia and a decrease in the qualitative composition of breast milk, which was manifested by a decrease in the level of lactose and lactoferrin by 1.6 times, transferrin by 1.4 times, total protein and ceruloplasmin by 2.2 times, casein by 1, 5 times, lipids 2.1 times, vitamin C 1.8 times and E 1.5 times, as well as the content of Ig G 2.1 times, IgA 2.2 times, Ig M 1.9 times in single women. Conclusions. Using the proposed algorithm in single women improved the state of lactation, increased normogalactia by 11%, decreased hypogalactia by 16%, the absence of agalactia, increased total protein content by 15.2%, lipids by 17.3% and normalized concentration of immunoglobulins A, M and G. Key words: single mothers, postpartum period, lactation.