Immunoglobulin G Concentrations Research Articles

Comparison of four semi-quantitative tests for evaluation of colostrum quality in Saanen goats

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of Brix refractometry and to compare the Brix value with semi-quantitative indicators such as total protein (TP), total protein in whey (TPw), glutaraldehyde coagulation time (GCT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) enzyme activity for determining the quality of colostrum. Colostrum samples were collected from 38 Saanen goats just after parturition and on the first day (24 ± 4 hours) and second day (48 ± 4) after parturition. The Brix value, TP and TPw levels were measured with optic refractometers. The level of GCT was determined with a 10% glutaraldehyde solution. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations were measured with a goat IgG ELISA. All measurements decreased significantly after parturition. The IgG and Brix values on the day of parturition were 4719.28 ±107.94 mg/dL and 20.55 ± 0.71, respectively. The TPw levels were lower than TP on all three days and a significant difference was detected on day 2. The IgG concentration was higher in the first-parity and second-parity goats compared with those older does. However, no differences were observed in the other characteristics of the colostrum. Litter size did not affect IgG or the other semi-quantitative tests. Correlation coefficients were higher than 0.8 Tp with TPw, and for the Brix value with both TP and TPw. Brix refractometry could be used to evaluate colostrum quality in Saanen goats and TPw is a more reliable indicator than TP.

Effects of Organic Chromium Yeast on Performance, Meat Quality, and Serum Parameters of Grow-Finish Pigs.

Trivalent chromium (Cr) is an essential trace element for humans and animals. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of chromium(III) yeast (CrYst) on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat traits, antioxidant status, immune traits, and serum biochemical parameters of grow-finish pigs. A total of 72 commercial hybrid barrows (Duroc × Landrace × Large White) of approximately 50kg body weight were allocated into two dietary treatments randomly, which received a corn-soybean meal basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 100mg CrYst/kg. The trial duration was 11weeks divided into three periods from body weights of 50-75kg, 75-100kg, and 100-110kg, respectively. The results revealed that supplemental CrYst did not affect growth performance. Organic CrYst supplementation significantly decreased the backfat depth and increased the meat tenderness score and juiciness score values in pigs (P < 0.05), while other carcass traits and meat traits indexes were unaffected. CrYst addition significantly decreased serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content of pigs in the whole growth phase; significantly increased the serum levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and reduced glutathione (GSH) in growing pigs; and also increased the serum IgG, IgM, and GSH concentrations in pigs during the finishing phase (P < 0.05). Additionally, diets supplemented with CrYst significantly decreased the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) content in growing pigs and significantly increased the serum LDL-C level at the fattening period (P < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed for the other serum biochemical indexes compared to the control pigs. In conclusion, CrYst supplementation could reduce lipid peroxidation and backfat thickness and improve the meat tenderness and juiciness, immune traits, and antioxidant status of pigs.

Effects of twice a day teat bucket feeding compared to twice a day mother suckling on behaviour, health traits and blood immune parameters in dairy calves and immune parameters in cow's milk

Early separation of cow and calf is still common practice in dairy production systems, but interest in calf rearing with cow contact has been constantly increasing in recent years. We tested the hypothesis that calves suckling their mothers twice a day would benefit with regard to behaviour and health traits until four months of age, when compared to twice daily teat bucket fed calves, fed with comparable milk amounts. Moreover, the effect of calf contact beyond the colostrum period on immunoglobulin G (IgG) and lactoferrin content in cow’s milk was investigated in weeks 3, 8, 12 and 16 post partum. We conducted on-farm trials on two organic farms from 2018 to 2020, where we randomly assigned the new born calves by sex and parity status of the mother (primi- or multiparous) to either teat bucket feeding (BF, n = 30 cow-calf couples, 2 ×3–5 L/d warmed bulk milk) or mother suckling (MS, n = 28 cow-calf couples, 2 ×30 min contact after milking). MS calves performed less cross-sucking, but manipulations of objects did not differ between feeding treatments nor did avoidance distance towards humans. Clinical scores on vitality, body condition, indicators for diarrhoea and respiratory disorders, and number of medical treatments differed between farms, but not between feeding treatments. Lactate level (stress indicator) revealed contradictory results between farms (farm 1: BF>MS, farm 2: BF≤MS). Glucose content (indicator of energy level) and packed cell volume (low values indicating anaemia) were higher in MS compared to BF calves. No difference between feeding treatments was found with regard to the immune status indicators mean total protein and IgG content in calf serum. Consistently, average IgG content in cow’s milk did not differ between cows with or without calf contact and showed a clear decrease with time. The variability of lactoferrin content in milk was higher in cows with calf contact, but its average did not differ between feeding treatments nor did it change with time. We conclude that even part-time mother contact twice daily is a means to reduce abnormal behaviour, i.e. cross-sucking, as it satisfies sucking needs of calves better than teat bucket feeding. Although health traits did mostly not differ between feeding treatments, differences between farms underline the influence of management factors on calf health. Cow-calf contact twice daily had no effect on the build-up of the active immune defence until the age of four months.

PSIII-15 Effect of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Boulardii CNCM I-1079 Supplementation to Sows on Colostrum igG Concentration

Abstract The transmission of passive immunity from the sow to the neonate piglets through colostrum is crucial for their future development. The aim of this experiment was to demonstrate that feeding the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 (SCB) increases the immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration in colostrum. In total, 620 colostrum samples were taken from mixed-parity sows (1-9) in 11 farms in Colombia. There were 2 treatments: control (CON; standard feed in gestation and lactation), and SCB (CON + 1 × 109 colony forming units (CFU)/kg, fed from 3 weeks before the expected farrowing date). The samples were taken within the first 4 hours after the birth of the first piglet, from both sides of the teats of the sow, and immediately analyzed with a MA871 refractometer to obtain a °Brix value. Furthermore, each value was attributed to 1 of the 4 following categories regarding IgG concentration: Very good, Adequate, Limited, and Poor. Data were analyzed with SPSS Statistics 26.0 (IBM) and submitted to an analysis of variance with farm as random effect, parity rank and treatment as fixed effects, and their interactions. However, no interaction was found between any of the variables studied. Colostrum from sows in the SCB treatment displayed a higher °Brix value (P &amp;lt; 0.001) than the 1 from sows in the CON treatment. Additionally, the percentage of sows fitting the categories Very good and Adequate was greater in the SCB treatment than in the CON, and the one fitting the categories Limited and Poor was greater in the CON treatment than in the SCB. It is concluded that supplementing sows with Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079 from 3 weeks before farrowing increases IgG concentration in colostrum, helping the neonate piglets to acquire the passive immunity necessary to improve later performance.

The Combined Effect of IgG and Fe Supply and Feeding Management on Growth Rates of Calves on Eight Commercial Dairy Farms in Germany.

Simple SummaryWell-thought-out calf rearing is essential to produce long-lived and productive cows for future dairy herds. The first days of a calf’s life are a very important period. It is known that calves that are adequately supplied with colostrum during this period have sufficient antibodies. They gain weight faster and fall ill less frequently. Identifying other management factors that have positive effects on calf growth is the subject of this study. To investigate this, 123 Holstein calves on eight conventional dairy farms were followed from birth to 50 days of life in spring 2017, and the influence on the animals’ weight gain due to management factors such as timing and supply of colostrum, iron supplementation, feeding regime and microbial load at first feeding was analyzed. The results show that, in addition to an adequate level of antibodies in the colostrum fed to the calves, the iron concentration in the calves’ blood and the feeding regimen play an important role in the calves’ weight gains and thus in calf rearing.During the first days of a calf’s life, the foundations are laid for successful growth and thus also for the later performance of the cows. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact on the weight gain of newborn calves due to important management factors related to colostrum supply, iron supply, feeding regime and microbial load at first feeding. In spring 2017, information of 123 Holstein calves were analyzed with regard to the colostrum supply and management factors on eight commercial dairy farms located in Germany. Additionally, blood samples of newborn calves were analyzed for total immunoglobulin G (IgG) and serum iron content. Furthermore, Brix analysis and analysis of contamination by E. coli were performed on first colostrum samples from teats or buckets. Average daily weight gain of calves at days 14 and 50 was calculated. The colostrum IgG was estimated by Brix refractometer. The volume of initial colostrum supply and the time between birth and colostrum intake significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the serum IgG concentration. The serum IgG concentration, the serum iron concentration and the feeding regimen (restrictive or not restrictive feeding) had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on daily weight gains. In conclusion, this study shows that, in addition to a sufficient supply of immunoglobulins, other aspects, such as an adequate colostrum, iron and milk supply, play an essential role in calf growth rates.

Impact of Janus kinase inhibitors on antibody response to 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

To evaluate the antibody response to 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKIs). Fifty-three patients receiving methotrexate (MTX; n = 10), JAKI (n = 20), or MTX + JAKI (n = 23) were vaccinated with PCV13. Serum concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to 13 pneumococcal serotype capsular polysaccharides were quantified before and 4-6 weeks after vaccination. Positive antibody response was defined as a 2-fold or more increase in IgG concentrations from prevaccination levels. After vaccination, IgG concentrations significantly increased in all treatment groups (P <0.001), but fold increases (postvaccination to prevaccination ratios) were different among treatment groups (9.30 for MTX, 6.36 for JAKI, and 3.46 for combination therapy). Positive antibody response rates were comparable between the MTX group (90%) and the JAKI group (95%) but lower in the MTX + JAKI group (52.2%). In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, the combination therapy was the only factor associated with a reduced antibody response to PCV13. No severe adverse events were observed in any treatment group. Although JAKIs do not impair PCV13 immunogenicity in rheumatoid arthritis patients, the combination of MTX with JAKI can reduce the antibody response in this patient population.

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Symptomatic Infections in Previously Infected or Vaccinated South African Healthcare Workers.

We investigated Omicron infections among healthcare workers (HCW) presenting with symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and evaluated the protective effect of vaccination or prior infection. Between 24 November and 31 December 2021, HCW in Johannesburg, South Africa, were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). Blood samples collected either at the symptomatic visit or in the 3 months prior, were tested for spike protein immunoglobulin G (IgG). Overall, 433 symptomatic HCW were included in the analysis, with 190 (43.9%) having an Omicron infection; 69 (16.7%) were unvaccinated and 270 (62.4%) received a single dose of the Ad26.COV.2 vaccine. There was no difference in the odds of identifying Omicron between unvaccinated and Ad26.COV.2 vaccinated HCW (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.46, 1.43). One-hundred and fifty-four (35.3%) HCW had at least one SARS-CoV-2 NAAT-confirmed prior infection; these had lower odds of Omicron infection compared with those without past infection (aOR 0.55, 95%CI: 0.36, 0.84). Anti-spike IgG concentration of 1549 binding antibody unit/mL was suggestive of significant reduction in the risk of symptomatic Omicron infection. We found high reinfection and vaccine breakthrough infection rates with the Omicron variant among HCW. Prior infection and high anti-spike IgG concentration were protective against Omicron infection.

Seropositivity to Nucleoprotein to detect mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections: A complementary tool to detect breakthrough infections after COVID-19 vaccination?

BackgroundWith COVID-19 vaccine roll-out ongoing in many countries globally, monitoring of breakthrough infections is of great importance. Antibodies persist in the blood after a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Since COVID-19 vaccines induce immune response to the Spike protein of the virus, which is the main serosurveillance target to date, alternative targets should be explored to distinguish infection from vaccination. MethodsMultiplex immunoassay data from 1,513 SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR-tested individuals (352 positive and 1,161 negative) without COVID-19 vaccination history were used to determine the accuracy of Nucleoprotein-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) in detecting past SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also described Spike S1 and Nucleoprotein-specific IgG responses in 230 COVID-19 vaccinated individuals (Pfizer/BioNTech). ResultsThe sensitivity of Nucleoprotein seropositivity was 85% (95% confidence interval: 80–90%) for mild COVID-19 in the first two months following symptom onset. Sensitivity was lower in asymptomatic individuals (67%, 50–81%). Participants who had experienced a SARS-CoV-2 infection up to 11 months preceding vaccination, as assessed by Spike S1 seropositivity or RT-qPCR, produced 2.7-fold higher median levels of IgG to Spike S1 ≥ 14 days after the first dose as compared to those unexposed to SARS-CoV-2 at ≥ 7 days after the second dose (p = 0.011). Nucleoprotein-specific IgG concentrations were not affected by vaccination in infection-naïve participants. ConclusionsSerological responses to Nucleoprotein may prove helpful in identifying SARS-CoV-2 infections after vaccination. Furthermore, it can help interpret IgG to Spike S1 after COVID-19 vaccination as particularly high responses shortly after vaccination could be explained by prior exposure history.

Comparison of testing for failure of passive transfer in calf serum using four different testing methods

Failure of passive transfer (FPT) in calves is defined as failure to absorb colostral antibodies sufficient to achieve a serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration of > 10 g/L within the first week of life. The aim of this study was to compare four different tests to diagnose FPT in a convenience sample of 1–7 day old dairy calves in Scotland. Published cutpoints for Brix and total protein (TP) refractometry and zinc sulphate turbidity (ZST) were compared with the reference test radial immunodiffusion (RID) for suitability to detect FPT. In addition, the current commercial RID reference test offered in Scotland was validated.FPT prevalence was estimated to be 14.17% (95% confidence intervals, 10.58–17.75) based on RID test results. There was moderate agreement between the reference (RID) and indirect tests (kappa=0.28 for Brix; 0.34 for TP; 0.24 for ZST). Brix and TP refractometry underestimated IgG concentration, resulting in an overestimation of FPT prevalence (40.54% and 29.46%, respectively). Similarly, ZST overestimated the prevalence of FPT (46.29%), but the variability was more consistent across all IgG concentrations. The performance of all three indirect methods was improved by lowering test cutpoints (to 5 g/dL for TP; 8.2% for Brix; 15 units for ZST) which improved test specificity and accuracy of these screening tests.

Decline in Antibody Concentration 6 Months After Two Doses of SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 Vaccine in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients and Healthy Controls.

BackgroundPrevious studies have indicated inferior responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. We examined the development of anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) immunoglobulin G (IgG) after two doses of BNT162b2b in SOT recipients 6 months after vaccination and compared to that of immunocompetent controls.MethodsWe measured anti-RBD IgG after two doses of BNT162b2 in 200 SOT recipients and 200 matched healthy controls up to 6 months after first vaccination. Anti-RBD IgG concentration and neutralizing capacity of antibodies were measured at first and second doses of BNT162b2 and 2 and 6 months after the first dose. T-cell responses were measured 6 months after the first dose.ResultsIn SOT recipients, geometric mean concentration (GMC) of anti-RBD IgG increased from first to second dose (1.14 AU/ml, 95% CI 1.08–1.24 to 11.97 AU/ml, 95% CI 7.73–18.77) and from second dose to 2 months (249.29 AU/ml, 95% CI 153.70–385.19). Six months after the first vaccine, anti-RBD IgG declined (55.85 AU/ml, 95% CI 36.95–83.33). At all time points, anti-RBD IgG was lower in SOT recipients than that in controls. Fewer SOT recipients than controls had a cellular response (13.1% vs. 59.4%, p < 0.001). Risk factors associated with humoral non-response included age [relative risk (RR) 1.23 per 10-year increase, 95% CI 1.11–1.35, p < 0.001], being within 1 year from transplantation (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.30–1.85, p < 0.001), treatment with mycophenolate (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.09–2.18, p = 0.015), treatment with corticosteroids (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.10–1.90, p = 0.009), kidney transplantation (RR 1.70, 95% CI 1.25–2.30, p = 0.001), lung transplantation (RR 1.63, 95% CI 1.16–2.29, p = 0.005), and de novo non-skin cancer comorbidity (RR 1.52, 95% CI, 1.26–1.82, p < 0.001).ConclusionImmune responses to BNT162b2 are inferior in SOT recipients compared to healthy controls, and studies aiming to determine the clinical impact of inferior vaccine responses are warranted.

Detection of nucleotide variants in FCGRT (Fc fragment of IgG, receptor, transporter, alpha) gene and their influence on colostral IgG concentration in Indian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).

The neonatal Fc receptors (FcRn) mediate the transfer of immunoglobulin G (IgG) molecules from a dam's circulation to the colostrum produced by it immediately after parturition. In ruminants, the calves born are agammaglobulinemic therefore, ingestion of colostrum with high concentration of IgG imparts passive immunity to the newborn. The FcRn molecule is a heterodimer, coded by FCGRT (Fc fragment of IgG Receptor Transporter neonatal) and B2M (Beta 2 microglobulin) genes. Present study attempted to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FCGRT gene in 40 buffaloes of Murrah breed and evaluated the association of these nucleotide variations and haplotypes with IgG concentration in their colostrum. Animals producing colostrum with high IgG and low IgG levels were identified by indirect ELISA and selected. SNPs were detected in the FCGRT gene sequence of selected animals by amplifying it in nine fragments covering all exons (with flanking introns) followed by PCR-single strand conformational polymorphism (PCR-SSCP). A total of nine SNPs were observed of which seven were present in flanking introns and two in exon 4 of the gene. The SNP A75G was non-synonymous and produced an amino acid change from isoleucine to valine. The exonic SNPs and corresponding haplotypes were found to be significantly (P < 0.01 and 0.05 respectively) associated with colostral IgG concentration based on Odds ratios at 95% confidence interval. Polymorphism in FCGRT gene is found to be associated with IgG concentration in colostrum and identification of females with desirable variations may prevent failure of passive transfer in neonatal ruminants.

Single-Layer-Graphene-Coated and Gold-Film-Based Surface Plasmon Resonance Prism Coupler Sensor for Immunoglobulin G Detection.

A graphene-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) prism coupler sensor is proposed for the rapid detection of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. The feasibility of the proposed sensor is demonstrated by measuring the IgG concentration in phantom mouse and human serum solutions over the range of 0–250 ng/mL. The results show that the circular dichroism and principal fast axis angle of linear birefringence increase in line with increases in IgG concentration over the considered range. Moreover, the proposed device has a resolution of 5–10 ng/mL and a response time of less than three minutes. In general, the sensor provides a promising approach for IgG detection and has significant potential for rapid infectious viral disease testing applications.

Quantitative analysis of mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccination response in immunocompromised adult hematology patients

AbstractVaccination guidelines for patients treated for hematological diseases are typically conservative. Given their high risk for severe COVID-19, it is important to identify those patients that benefit from vaccination. We prospectively quantified serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to spike subunit 1 (S1) antigens during and after 2-dose mRNA-1273 (Spikevax/Moderna) vaccination in hematology patients. Obtaining S1 IgG ≥ 300 binding antibody units (BAUs)/mL was considered adequate as it represents the lower level of S1 IgG concentration obtained in healthy individuals, and it correlates with potent virus neutralization. Selected patients (n = 723) were severely immunocompromised owing to their disease or treatment thereof. Nevertheless, >50% of patients obtained S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL after 2-dose mRNA-1273. All patients with sickle cell disease or chronic myeloid leukemia obtained adequate antibody concentrations. Around 70% of patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), multiple myeloma, or untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) obtained S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL. Ruxolitinib or hypomethylating therapy but not high-dose chemotherapy blunted responses in myeloid malignancies. Responses in patients with lymphoma, patients with CLL on ibrutinib, and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell recipients were low. The minimal time interval after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) to reach adequate concentrations was <2 months for multiple myeloma, 8 months for lymphoma, and 4 to 6 months after allogeneic HCT. Serum IgG4, absolute B- and natural killer–cell number, and number of immunosuppressants predicted S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL. Hematology patients on chemotherapy, shortly after HCT, or with cGVHD should not be precluded from vaccination. This trial was registered at Netherlands Trial Register as #NL9553.

Humoral immune response after different SARS-CoV-2 vaccination regimens

BackgroundThe humoral immune response after primary immunisation with a SARS-CoV-2 vector vaccine (AstraZeneca AZD1222, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, Vaxzevria) followed by an mRNA vaccine boost (Pfizer/BioNTech, BNT162b2; Moderna, m-1273) was examined and compared with the antibody response after homologous vaccination schemes (AZD1222/AZD1222 or BNT162b2/BNT162b2).MethodsSera from 59 vaccinees were tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) and virus-neutralising antibodies (VNA) with three IgG assays based on (parts of) the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S)-protein as antigen, an IgG immunoblot (additionally contains the SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein (NP) as an antigen), a surrogate neutralisation test (sVNT), and a Vero-cell-based virus-neutralisation test (cVNT) with the B.1.1.7 variant of concern (VOC; alpha) as antigen. Investigation was done before and after heterologous (n = 30 and 42) or homologous booster vaccination (AZD1222/AZD1222, n = 8/9; BNT162b2/BNT162b2, n = 8/8). After the second immunisation, a subgroup of 26 age- and gender-matched sera (AZD1222/mRNA, n = 9; AZD1222/AZD1222, n = 9; BNT162b2/BNT162b2, n = 8) was also tested for VNA against VOC B.1.617.2 (delta) in the cVNT. The strength of IgG binding to separate SARS-CoV-2 antigens was measured by avidity.ResultsAfter the first vaccination, the prevalence of IgG directed against the (trimeric) SARS-CoV-2 S-protein and its receptor binding domain (RBD) varied from 55–95% (AZD1222) to 100% (BNT162b2), depending on the vaccine regimen and the SARS-CoV-2 antigen used. The booster vaccination resulted in 100% seroconversion and the occurrence of highly avid IgG, which is directed against the S-protein subunit 1 and the RBD, as well as VNA against VOC B.1.1.7, while anti-NP IgGs were not detected. The results of the three anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG tests showed an excellent correlation to the VNA titres against this VOC. The agreement of cVNT and sVNT results was good. However, the sVNT seems to overestimate non- and weak B.1.1.7-neutralising titres. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG concentrations and the B.1.1.7-neutralising titres were significantly higher after heterologous vaccination compared to the homologous AZD1222 scheme. If VOC B.1.617.2 was used as antigen, significantly lower VNA titres were measured in the cVNT, and three (33.3%) vector vaccine recipients had a VNA titre < 1:10.ConclusionsHeterologous SARS-CoV-2 vaccination leads to a strong antibody response with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG concentrations and VNA titres at a level comparable to that of a homologous BNT162b2 vaccination scheme. Irrespective of the chosen immunisation regime, highly avid IgG antibodies can be detected just 2 weeks after the second vaccine dose indicating the development of a robust humoral immunity. The reduction in the VNA titre against VOC B.1.617.2 observed in the subgroup of 26 individuals is remarkable and confirms the immune escape of the delta variant.

Oligoclonal Band Straightening Based on Optimized Hierarchical Warping for Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis.

The detection of immunoglobulin G (IgG) oligoclonal bands (OCB) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by isoelectric focusing (IEF) is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Over the last decade, the results of our clinical research have suggested that tears are a non-invasive alternative to CSF. However, since tear samples have a lower IgG concentration than CSF, a sensitive OCB detection is therefore required. We are developing the first automatic tool for IEF analysis, with a view to speeding up the current visual inspection method, removing user variability, reducing misinterpretation, and facilitating OCB quantification and follow-up studies. The removal of band distortion is a key image enhancement step in increasing the reliability of automatic OCB detection. Here, we describe a novel, fully automatic band-straightening algorithm. The algorithm is based on a correlation directional warping function, estimated using an energy minimization procedure. The approach was optimized via an innovative coupling of a hierarchy of image resolutions to a hierarchy of transformation, in which band misalignment is corrected at successively finer scales. The algorithm’s performance was assessed in terms of the bands’ standard deviation before and after straightening, using a synthetic dataset and a set of 200 lanes of CSF, tear, serum and control samples on which experts had manually delineated the bands. The number of distorted bands was divided by almost 16 for the synthetic lanes and by 7 for the test dataset of real lanes. This method can be applied effectively to different sample types. It can realign minimal contrast bands and is robust for non-uniform deformations.

Immunoglobulin G Concentrations in Alpaca Colostrum during the First Four Days after Parturition.

Simple SummaryDuring the first days after parturition, mammalian milk (colostrum) is specifically formulated to nourish newborns. Immunoglobulins are a particularly important component for newborn New World camelids, as their immune system is almost totally dependent on the intestinal transfer of colostral immunoglobulins to acquire passive immunity. In this study, colostrum samples were collected from 20 alpaca mares in the first four days after parturition and analyzed for their immunoglobulin concentration. Sampling started on the day of parturition. The associations of immunoglobulins with other components were determined. The immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations decreased significantly within the first four days after parturition. The correlation coefficients between IgG content and the content of various minerals were significant but variable. The correlation between IgG content and fat and lactose content was negative but between IgG content and protein content was highly positive. This strong association could be used for a brief estimation of the IgG content of the colostrum based on the measured protein concentration. The results of the present study can be used for the development of colostrum replacers where motherless rearing is required.Colostrum provides the newborn with nutrients and immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins and their intestinal transfer play a major role in the immune system of neonates since they are born agammaglobulinemic. In this study immunoglobulin G (IgG) content was determined in alpaca colostrum and the correlations of the IgG concentration by fat, protein, lactose and minerals were calculated. Colostrum samples were collected daily from 20 multiparous alpaca mares during the first four days after parturition. The IgG concentrations were determined by radial immunodiffusion using a Camelid IgG Test Kit. The IgG concentration decreased significantly from 26,319 mg/dL on day 1 to 3848.8 mg/dL on day 4. There were significant correlations between IgG concentration and the other components of the colostrum. While the correlations between IgG and fat (r = −0.69, p ≤ 0.001) and lactose (r = −0.64, p ≤ 0.001) were negative, the correlations with protein (r = 0.91, p ≤ 0.001), magnesium (r = 0.86, p ≤ 0.001) and cobalt (r = 0.87, p ≤ 0.001) were strongly positive. Due to the strong association, the colostrum protein concentration could be used for a brief estimation of the IgG content.

Pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation of subcutaneous and intravenous IgG dosing in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases

A population pharmacokinetic (PK) model for comparing the PK of subcutaneously administered immunoglobulin G (IgG) replacement therapy (SCIG) with Gamunex-C 10% or SCIG 20% formulations in patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases was developed using data from 3 clinical trials (N = 95, 69.5% adults, 30.5% <18 years) of intravenous IG (IVIG) 10% and SCIG 10% or SCIG 20%. Serum IgG exposure following switches from IVIG 10% every 3 or 4 weeks to biweekly SCIG 20% (dose adjustment factor 1.0 or 1.37) and from weekly SCIG 20% to biweekly SCIG 20% or SCIG 20% 2–7 times/week was simulated. The PK of IVIG 10% and SCIG 20% were adequately described by a 2-compartment model with first-order absorption rate constant of exogenous IgG from an SC depot compartment into the central compartment and first-order elimination from the central compartment. Switching from IVIG 10% every 4 weeks to biweekly SCIG 20% produced similar serum IgG exposure, with lower peak and higher trough serum IgG concentrations. Switching from IVIG 10% every 3 or 4 weeks to weekly and biweekly SCIG 20% yielded comparable IgG exposure and clinically effective trough IgG concentrations.

Sensitive and real-time detection of IgG using interferometric reflecting imaging sensor system

Considering the limitations of well-known traditional detection techniques, innovative research studies have focused on the development of new sensors to offer label-free, highly sensitive, real-time, low-cost, and rapid detection for biomolecular interactions. In this study, we demonstrate immunoglobulin G (IgG) detection in aqueous solutions by using real-time and label-free kinetic measurements of the Interferometric Reflectance Imaging Sensor (IRIS) system. By performing kinetic characterization experiments, the sensor's performance is comprehensively evaluated and a high correlation coefficient value (>0.94) is obtained in the IgG concentration range of 1–50 μg/mL with a low detection limit (0.25 μg/mL or 1.67 nM). Moreover, the highly sensitive imaging system ensures accurate quantification and reliable validation of recorded binding events, offering new perspectives in terms of direct biomarker detection for clinical applications.

Cow-level factors associated with colostrum yield and quality of Holstein dairy cows

Context Colostrum feeding and hence transfer of sufficient immunoglobulin G (IgG) is vital for protecting against disease in the neonatal calf. A wide range of variations exists in colostrum yield, IgG concentration and many factors that affect colostrum quality. Aims The current study aimed to determine the cow-level factors associated with colostrum yield, IgG concentration, and somatic cell score (SCS) in dairy cows. Methods Colostrum weight from 152 Holstein dairy cows from a commercial dairy herd was recorded, and SCS and IgG concentration were analysed. Cow-level factors were obtained from the on-farm computer software. The mixed linear model (PROC MIXED) was used to analyse the colostrum quality and production. Key results A calving body condition score (BCS) of &lt;3 was associated with higher colostrum production and a lower colostrum IgG concentration. Furthermore, cows that lost their BCS during the dry period (DP) produced less colostrum IgG concentration than did cows that maintained or gained BCS. Cows with BCS of &gt;3.5 at dry-off and calving had greater colostrum SCS. Cows that gained or lost BCS during the DP had the greatest and lowest colostrum SCS. Moreover, colostrum yield was highest in second-lactation cows, and cows with &lt;45 day DP length (DPL) produced more colostrum with a higher IgG concentration. Higher-parity cows produced higher IgG-concentration colostrum. Colostrum SCS increased with increasing parity, and cows with &gt;75 day DPL had the greatest SCS. Cows with &gt;12 500 kg energy-corrected milk in previous lactation produced colostrum with the greatest IgG concentration and lowest SCS. Also, colostrum production was greater in singleton cows than in twinning cows, while colostrum SCS was lower. Moreover, cows that experienced clinical mastitis in the previous lactation had greater colostrum SCS than did cows without mastitis. Conclusions The results indicated that cow-level factors affect colostrum yield, quality, and SCS and highlighted the importance of routine colostrum testing. Finally, these results may help producers and advisers make decisions to improve colostrum production and quality. Implications Future research should focus on the effect of BCS change during the DP on colostrum yield and quality.

Effect of vitamin K3 supplementation on immunoglobulin G concentration in colostrum of periparturient Holstein dairy cows.

This study was to examine the effects of dietary vitamin K (VK) 3 supplementation on immune-related substances in milk, oxidative stress indices in plasma and VK1, and menaquinone 4 (MK-4) in plasma and milk in periparturient dairy cows. Forty healthy perinatal Holstein-Friesian dairy cows were used in this study. Twenty-one animals were randomly selected and categorized into the VK3 supplemented (50 mg/day/head as VK3) group; the remaining 19 were categorized into the control group. On day 3 after calving, blood and milk were sampled, and their chemical components were determined. The VK3 supplemented group had significantly higher menaquinone 4 levels in plasma and milk on day 3 postpartum than the control group. In addition, there was a significant increase in the immunoglobulin G (IgG) level in milk. VK3 may be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and converted to MK-4, the biologically active form of VK, in the mammary gland and other tissues. It was thought that the increase in MK-4 level in plasma and milk induced an increase in the concentration of IgG in milk. VK3 supplementation to periparturient dairy cows may contribute to the production of colostrum with high concentrations of IgG and MK-4.