Immunoglobulin Levels Research Articles

Comparing the immunogenicity of COVID-19 infection and vaccination in pregnant women as measured by anti-S IgG

BackgroundPregnancy is a critical time for women, making them more susceptible to infectious diseases like COVID-19. This study aims to determine the immunogenicity of COVID-19 in pregnant women who have been infected compared to those who have received the inactive COVID-19 vaccine.Materials and methodsIn this retrospective cohort study, pregnant women who received the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine (Sinopharm) and those with a history of COVID-19 infection during pregnancy were studied. Participants who had experienced stillbirth, received different COVID-19 vaccines, or had intrauterine fetal death were excluded from the study. Overall, the study included 140 participants. The participants were divided into two groups of 70 participants - pregnant women who received the Sinopharm vaccine and pregnant women who had COVID-19 infection during pregnancy. Before delivery, blood samples were collected from all mothers to evaluate the maternal immunoglobulin G (IgG) level. Blood samples were also taken from the baby’s umbilical cord during delivery to measure the newborn’s IgG level. Additionally, blood samples were collected from babies whose mothers showed signs of acute infection to measure their IgM levels and evaluate vertical transmission.FindingsThe study found a significant relationship between the mean level of maternal IgG and umbilical cord IgG within the groups (P < 0.001). The highest levels of maternal IgG (2.50 ± 2.17) and umbilical cord IgG (2.43 ± 2.09) were observed in pregnant women with a previous COVID-19 infection and no history of vaccination (P < 0.001). Only one baby was born with a positive IgM, and this baby was born to a mother who showed signs of COVID-19 infection in the last five days of pregnancy. The mother was 28 years old, with a BMI of 33; it was her first pregnancy, and she gave birth to a male newborn at term.ConclusionAdministering an inactivated vaccine during pregnancy can generate immunity in both the mother and the child. However, the vaccine’s immunity level may not be as potent as that conferred by COVID-19 infection during pregnancy. Nonetheless, the risk of vertical transmission of COVID-19 is considered minimal and can be classified as negligible.

Clinical Efficacy of Spleen Aminopeptide Combined with Budesonide and Levosalbutamol Hydrochloride, and Its Effects on Inflammatory Markers and Immune Function in Pediatric Bronchial Asthma

Background: Bronchial asthma (BA) is a heterogeneous disease characterized primarily by chronic airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Objectives: This was a retrospective study aimed at exploring the clinical efficacy of spleen aminopeptide (SA) combined with budesonide (BUD) and levosalbutamol hydrochloride (LEV) as a therapy for pediatric BA, and to observe its effects on inflammatory markers and immune function. Methods: From June 2022 to June 2023, eighty individuals diagnosed with BA were divided into two groups: A control group and an observation group, based on different therapeutic methods. The control group received inhalation therapy with nebulized BUD and LEV, while the observation group received the same inhalation therapy as the control group, along with SA oral lyophilized powder (SAOLP) treatment. A comparative analysis was conducted between the two groups, evaluating clinical efficacy, changes in inflammatory markers and immunological parameters, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Results: Upon treatment completion, the observation group exhibited an overall response rate (ORR) of 95.00%, whereas the control group showed an ORR of 80.00% (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, the observation group had a significantly shorter length of hospital stay (LoHS) and a more rapid improvement in symptoms compared to the control group (both P &lt; 0.05). Following treatment, both groups demonstrated significant decreases in interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) levels (all P &lt; 0.05). However, these reductions were more pronounced in the observation group than in the control group (all P &lt; 0.05). Similarly, after treatment, both groups showed significant increases in T cell subsets CD3⁺ and CD4⁺, the CD4⁺/CD8⁺ ratio, and levels of immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) (all P &lt; 0.05), with these changes being more evident in the observation group than in the control group (all P &lt; 0.05). Both groups experienced adverse reactions during the treatment, with an overall adverse reaction rate (OADRR) of 7.50% in the observation group and 10.00% in the control group (χ² = 0.157, P = 0.692). Conclusions: The combined therapy using SA, BUD, and LEV can significantly improve immune function and reduce inflammatory markers, thereby achieving satisfactory efficacy in treating pediatric BA with a clinically safe profile.

Factors related to elevated serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) levels in a Japanese general population

BackgroundElevated serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) concentrations are one of the characteristic findings in IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). This study investigated the frequency of elevated serum IgG4 levels and associated factors in a general Japanese population.MethodsSerum IgG4 concentrations were measured in 1,201 residents of Ishikawa prefecture who underwent general medical examinations. Factors associated with elevated serum IgG4 concentrations were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Participants with elevated serum IgG4 were subjected to secondary examinations.ResultsThe mean serum IgG4 concentration was 44 mg/dL, with 42 (3.5%) participants having elevated serum IgG4 levels. Age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression analyses showed that male sex, older age, and lower intake of lipids and polyunsaturated fatty acids and higher intake of carbohydrates in daily diet were associated with elevated serum IgG4 concentration. Subgroup analyses in men showed that older age, lower estimated glomerular filtration rates based on serum cystatin C (eGFR-cysC) levels, and higher hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were associated with elevated serum IgG4 concentration. Analyses in women showed that lower intake of lipids and fatty acids and higher intake of carbohydrates were significantly associated with elevated serum IgG4 concentration. One of the 15 participants who underwent secondary examinations was diagnosed with possible IgG4-related retroperitoneal fibrosis.ConclusionsElevated serum IgG4 levels in a Japanese general population were significantly associated with older age, male gender, and dietary intake of nutrients, with some of these factors identical to the epidemiological features of IgG4-RD.

Protective effects of Parkin knockout on asthma-induced changes in juvenile mice: inflammation, airway resistance, and oxidative stress

Objective This study aimed to explore the effects of Parkin (Prkn) knockout in a juvenile mouse model of asthma. Methods Prkn knockout (KO) and wild type (WT) mice were utilized to establish a juvenile mouse asthma model. The asthma model involved exposure to hyperoxia/ovalbumin (OVA), encompassing hyperoxia from postnatal day 1 (P1) to P7, sensitization on P21 and P28, and challenge from P36 to P42. Room air/phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) served as the control condition. Following airway resistance measurement, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected for cellular analysis, and lung tissues were subjected to histological examination and oxidative stress assessment. Serum levels of ovalbumin-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE), total IgE, interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, and IL-13 were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results WT mice exposed to hyperoxia/OVA showed decreased body weight and increased airway resistance compared to those exposed to control condition. Conversely, KO mice exhibited increased body weight under asthma conditions. KO mice with asthma had reduced total cell counts, along with lower levels of lymphocytes, eosinophils, and neutrophils, compared to WT asthma mice. Histological assessment showed attenuated inflammation and reduced collagen deposition in KO mice relative to WT mice, with lower serum levels of inflammatory markers and improved lung oxidative stress profiles. No significant differences were observed between KO and WT mice under room air/PBS conditions. Conclusions Parkin knockout in juvenile mice mitigates asthma-related alterations in airway resistance, histopathological changes, inflammation status, and oxidative stress. These findings highlight a protective role of Parkin deficiency against asthma-associated pathologies.

Prevalence and CCR3-T51C genotype–phenotype correlation of bronchial asthma among basic education school children: an observational study

BackgroundBronchial asthma (BA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder identified by different endotypes and phenotypes. Chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) is one of the essential chemokine receptors that have a crucial role in asthma development by activating the migration of eosinophils through eotaxin production. We aimed to determine asthma prevalence among school children and to investigate the association between CCR3-T51C gene polymorphisms and the symptom-based clinical asthma phenotypes.MethodsThis study employed a hybrid design, conducted at a single center in Egypt from 2020 to 2021, to explore the relationship between asthma, its clinical phenotypes, and the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism. Initially, a cross-sectional analysis was performed, utilizing a modified version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire to determine the prevalence of asthma in a cohort of 60 children, who presented with diverse clinical phenotypes, alongside 100 healthy controls. Subsequently, in the case–control phase of the study, we focused on examining the association between asthma (and its clinical phenotypes) and the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism. For both groups, serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and eosinophil counts were assessed, and the genotypes and alleles of the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism were identified using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) technique.ResultsA total of 600 children aged (6 to 16 years old) were enrolled. Out of these, 72 children (12%) were diagnosed with bronchial asthma in the basic education schools in El Manzala City, Egypt. Also, 72 (12%) of the studied children had wheezes, and 48 (8%) had night cough. Children with asthma had significantly higher relative eosinophil count and serum IgE levels than the control group. In terms of CCR3-T51C genotypes analysis, the TT genotype was the most prevalent in both patient and control groups, with 63.3% and 64%, respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Also, there were no significant associations between CCR3-T51C genotypes and laboratory biomarkers among cough, wheezy, and cough and wheezy groups, except for the CT genotype in the cough group that had a lower eosinophil count than the wheezy group (P = 0.04).ConclusionAsthma affects 12% of the school-aged children. The CCR3-T51C genotype or allelic polymorphism frequency did not differ between asthmatics and controls; however, the TT genotype was more frequent in asthmatic children. Eosinophil count, serum IgE and gene polymorphism of CCR3-T51C appeared similar among different asthmatic phenotypes.

The Effect of the Season on the Time Dependent Changes in Colostrum Lactoferrin Level in Murciano-Granadina Goats in Intensive System Farming.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of postpartum day and parity season on the lactoferrin (LF), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and chemical composition of Murciano-Granadina goat colostrum during the first 96 h after kidding, and the use of the Brix refractometer to estimate IgG content. A herd of 3500 intensively managed Murciano-Granadina dairy goats (45-50 kg body weight) was used. Colostrum samples were collected from days 1 to 4 postpartum in the winter, spring, summer, and autumn. The colostrum composition was assessed using an automated infrared method; the LF and IgG concentrations were measured using an ELISA, and for the Brix percentage, we used a digital refractometer. Colostrum taken on the first postpartum day showed the highest concentrations of LF, IgG, proteins and non-fat solids (NFSs). As the postpartum days progressed, a rapid decrease in the LF, IgG, protein, and NFS contents and the Brix value was observed. In contrast, the lactose content increased steadily until the fourth postpartum day (p < 0.001). The season influenced milk yield, LF, IgG, protein, fat, and somatic cell content (p < 0.05). LF contents were significantly higher in the spring season, IgG contents were higher in autumn colostrum, and fat components were higher in the winter season. The colostrum Brix value showed a positive correlation with the ELISA colostrum LF (r = 0.716, p < 0.001) and IgG (r = 0.894, p < 0.001) determination; a 20 mg IgG/mL colostrum concentration corresponded to 18 °Brix. Our results corroborate the importance of feeding colostrum to newborns on the first day after birth, not only because of its high level of IgG but also because of its greater presence of the other bioactive protein compounds such as lactoferrin.

Effectiveness of nutritional support for clinical outcomes in gastric cancer patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality globally. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of nutritional interventions on clinical outcomes in GC patients. Comprehensive search was conducted across four medical databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined nutritional interventions in GC patients. The outcomes assessed included hospitalization duration, nutritional status, immune function, and complications. A total of 11 studies were included. Enteral nutrition (EN) significantly reduce hospital stay duration compared to no nutritional intervention (SMD = -1.22, 95% CI [-1.72, -0.73], P < 0.001) and parenteral nutrition (PN) (SMD = -1.30, 95% CI [-1.78, -0.82], P < 0.001), but showed no significant difference compared to immunonutrition (IN). EN also improved nutritional status, indicated by higher albumin prealbumin levels, and improved immune function by elevating CD4+ levels (SMD = 1.09, 95% CI [0.61, 1.57], P < 0.001). However, IN showed superior effects on immunoglobulin levels (IgG and IgM). No significant differences were observed in complication rates among EN, IN, and PN interventions. Nutritional support, particularly EN and IN, can significantly improve hospitalization outcomes, nutritional status, and immune function. Customizing interventions according to patient requirements can optimize therapeutic outcomes, highlighting the need for further research in this area.

Anaphylactic Shock Caused by Eating Buckwheat.

Background: Urticaria is a common disease with a marked influence on quality of life. The key cell involved is the mast cell, which can be activated by a vast variety of stimuli, and the major mediator is histamine. Allergic urticaria is a disorder with a large variety of causes: food, drugs, insect venom, skin contact with allergens, and physical exercise. Buckwheat consumption has increased in European countries and the USA because it is gluten-free. It can trigger anaphylactic shock if ingested, inhaled, or handled with the hands. Five common buckwheat allergens named Fag e1 to 5 (Fag e1, 2, and 3 are considered the major allergens) and two tartary buckwheat allergens named Fag t1 and Fag t2 have been described. Method: We present the case of a patient who experienced two anaphylactic shocks and in whom the etiological factor was buckwheat. The patient presented to the Allergology department for the evaluation of two episodes of severe allergic reactions that required emergency therapy, episodes that involved the loss of consciousness and were of major severity. At each anaphylactic shock, an ambulance was requested, and emergency therapy was administered, leading to the patient's recovery within a few hours. Diagnosis: Since each episode occurred a few minutes after eating, the diagnosis was established based on a detailed anamnesis and prick skin tests, followed by specific IgE dosages. Other foods consumed by the patient, assessed by prick skin testing and specific IgE dosages of suspected foods, were excluded as the etiological cause. Increased levels of buckwheat-specific immunoglobulin E were highlighted, thus identifying the etiological agent. The treatment of anaphylactic shock was performed urgently by the ambulance crew with adrenaline, infusion solutions, cortisone preparations, and antihistamines. Result: Following the treatment that was initiated, there was a partial remission of the lesions after a few hours. Conclusions: Buckwheat allergy is rare, but it produces symptoms that affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract, as well as anaphylaxis. In a professional environment, it can trigger allergic rhinitis, asthma, and hives. Although buckwheat allergens have been described, their clinical relevance has only been studied in a small number cases. In current practice, the only commercially available allergen is Beech e2 per the ImmunoCAP ISAC microarray. Diagnosis can be difficult in clinical practice. This reported case suggests the need for a thorough anamnesis, since buckwheat is consumed as a hidden allergen, and in Europe, it is not necessary to label foods containing this allergen.

An Evaluation of Skin and Immunological Responses after Using a Novel Cross-Linked Porcine-Based Dermal Injectable Collagen with Lidocaine for Nasolabial Fold Correction.

Background: Hypersensitivity to the new dermal injectable porcine-based collagen with lidocaine featuring a novel cross-linking technology (test filler) for nasolabial fold correction was compared to the commercially available traditional cross-linked dermal injectable porcine-based collagen with lidocaine (control filler). Methods: Recruited participants (n = 279) received a single 0.1 mL intradermal injection of either test filler or control filler in the left forearm as a screening skin allergy test. Injection sites were assessed clinically at 24 h post-implant. Treatment was given to 252 successfully screened participants, and injection sites were monitored for 21 days. Immunological examinations were performed at screening and then at 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment. Observations for adverse events continued until the 52nd week. Results: Intradermal allergy testing results were negative for all the test recipients (0/124) and positive for two control recipients (2/132, 1.5%). Most of the participants exhibited no changes in serum immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM) and complement (C3, C4) levels. No serious adverse events related to the device were recorded. Most adverse events were common complications of dermal filler treatment and were related to the injection site. Most adverse effects were resolved or under control by 52 weeks. Conclusions: Hypersensitivity reactions with the test filler were lower than those with the control filler, validating the safe use of test filler for nasolabial fold correction without the need for pretreatment skin testing.

A serological survey of COVID-19 among predominantly aboriginal residents of a tourist island in southern Thailand

BackgroundThe current survey describes the seroprevalence, history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and vaccination status among predominantly aboriginal residents on a tourist island in southern Thailand. This information can be translated into COVID-19 vaccination and control plans for this population.MethodsWe implemented questionnaire interviews and collected blood samples from 249 residents of Lipe Island, Satun Province, in January 2022. We measured the anti-nucleocapsid protein and anti-spike (anti-S) receptor-binding protein levels of immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG. The differences in antibody levels among participants with different histories of vaccination and infection were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with multiple comparisons.ResultsDuring the 2-year pandemic period, no island residents with COVID-19 required hospitalization despite the high prevalence of hypertension (33.3%) and diabetes mellitus (21.7%). Approximately 18.8% of the participants reported a history of COVID-19 diagnosis. In total, 95.1% of the participants had a history of complete vaccination, of which 93.5% were seropositive. The anti-S IgG geometric means (geometric standard deviation) were 3945.8 (2.0), 829.8 (9.7) AU/mL, 789.9 (5.3) AU/mL, and 22.7 (7.1) AU/mL, respectively, in participants with a history of both COVID-19 diagnosis and complete vaccination (group 1), incomplete vaccination and subsequent COVID-19 diagnosis (group 2), complete vaccination but no previous infection (group 3), or neither previous COVID-19 and complete vaccination (group 4). Significant pairwise differences in anti-S IgG levels were found between certain groups (1 vs 3, 1 vs 4, 2 vs 4, and 3 vs 4).ConclusionsThe high coverage of vaccination, high levels of population antibody titers, variable antibody levels among completely vaccinated non-infected residents, and high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) suggested that the local health systems could control the pandemic. However, continuing surveillance, booster vaccinations, and NCD prevention programs were still required.

Dupilumab Reduces Urticaria Activity, Itch, and Hives in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Regardless of Baseline Serum Immunoglobulin E Levels.

In chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 may promote mast cell activation directly via IL-4 receptor expression, or indirectly via upregulated immunoglobulin E (IgE) production. Dupilumab significantly improved CSU signs and symptoms in the phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled LIBERTY-CSU CUPID Study A. This analysis explores the impact of dupilumab on CSU signs and symptoms and serum IgE levels in patients from LIBERTY-CSU CUPID Study A with serum total IgE above and below 100IU/mL at baseline. Patients with H1-antihistamine-refractory CSU received dupilumab (n = 70) or placebo (n = 68) for 24 weeks. Efficacy endpoints were change from baseline to weeks 12 and 24 in serum total IgE levels, Itch Severity Score over 7 days (ISS7), Urticaria Activity Score over 7 days (UAS7), and Hives Severity Score over 7days (HSS7) in dupilumab- or placebo-treated patients with serum total IgE above and below 100IU/mL at baseline. Dupilumab treatment significantly reduced median (interquartile range) IgE levels at week 12 [dupilumab: -31.9% (-41.9; -22.6); placebo: -6.3% (-21.3; 14.9)] and week 24 [dupilumab: -48.2% (-56.8; - 39.5); placebo: - 6.3% (-34.5; 14.8)]. Similar IgE reductions relative to baseline were observed in dupilumab-treated patients regardless of baseline IgE level. Dupilumab treatment improved ISS7, UAS7, and HSS7 over 12 and 24 weeks, regardless of baseline serum IgE level (interaction p ≥ 0.59 for all treatment by subgroup comparisons), with weak correlations (r < 0.2) observed between IgE level changes and ISS7, UAS7, and HSS7 outcomes. Dupilumab significantly improved CSU signs and symptoms and reduced serum IgE, regardless of baseline IgE levels. In the current analysis, baseline total IgE had no predictive value as a dupilumab treatment response biomarker in CSU. Downregulation of IgE, a key mediator of mast cell activation and histamine release, may at least partially explain the effectiveness of dupilumab in reducing CSU signs and symptoms. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04180488.

Primary Immunodeficiency: Specific antibody deficiency with normal IgG.

Specific antibody deficiency (SAD) is a common primary immunodeficiency disorder that should be considered in older children and adults with recurrent and/or severe sinopulmonary infections. The diagnosis is characterized by inadequate antibody response to polysaccharide vaccine, specifically, pneumococcal, with normal responses to protein antigens and normal levels of serum immunoglobulins as well as immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclasses. The underlying mechanism for SAD is not completely elucidated. It is understood that young children have limited polysaccharide responsiveness, which develops with increased age. Due to this phenomenon, the consensus is that there is adequate immune maturity after age 2 years, which is the earliest for the SAD diagnosis to be established. There remains a lack of consensus on thresholds for polysaccharide nonresponse, and there are several commercial laboratories that measure a range of serotypes, with the recommendation for patients to have their diagnostic evaluation with serotype testing both before vaccination and after vaccination to be conducted by the same laboratory. Once a diagnosis has been made, the management of SAD is based on the clinical severity. Clinicians may consider prophylactic antibiotics as well as immunoglobulin replacement. These patients should be closely followed up, with the possibility of discontinuation of IgG replacement after 12 to 24 months. Children are more likely to demonstrate resolution of SAD than are adolescents and adults. Patients with SAD may also progress to a more severe immunodeficiency; therefore, continued monitoring remains a crucial principle of practice in the care of patients with SAD.

Serum leptin and adiponectin function as indicators of allergic sensitization in pediatric adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

Obesity is commonly linked to both adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) and allergic disorders, in which the roles of adipokines are not fully illuminated. This study aims to investigate the levels of leptin and adiponectin and their associations with allergic sensitization in pediatric ATH. Serum levels of specific immunoglobulin E (IgE), leptin and adiponectin were quantified in 35 controls and 111 ATH children, in which 54 were non-atopic and 57 were atopic. Spearman's correlation analysis and polynomial linear trend test were conducted. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated by binary logistic regression after multivariable adjustment. The serum level of leptin and leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio was significantly increased in children with ATH. An increase in leptin level and L/A ratio and a decrease in adiponectin level were observed in atopic children compared with non-atopic children. Among ATH children, the level of adiponectin was negatively while L/A ratio was positively correlated with specific IgE. After multivariable adjustment, leptin was significantly associated with increased risk of atopy to D. pteronyssinus and D. farina, and adiponectin was significantly associated with decreased risk of atopy to willow and mugwort. Leptin was associated with higher odds while adiponectin was associated with lower odds of overall atopy. Besides, significant multiplicative interactions of obesity with leptin and adiponectin on atopy were observed respectively. Leptin and adiponectin were both associated with allergic sensitization and function differently in pediatric ATH. Mechanistic studies are needed to elucidate the involvement of adipokines in allergic sensitization of pediatric ATH.

Investigating the correlation between phenotypes, adrenal transcriptome, and serum metabolism in laying ducks exhibiting varying behaviours under the same stressor

Laying ducks in cage environments face various stressors, including the fear of novelty, which negatively affects their behaviour and performance. The reasons behind the variation in behaviour under identical stress conditions are not well understood. This study investigated how different behaviours affect production performance, immune response, antioxidant capabilities, adrenal gene expression, and serum metabolite profiles in caged laying ducks subjected to the same stressor. Overall, 42-week-old laying ducks (N = 300) were selected, fed for 60 days, and simultaneously underwent behavioural tests. Based on their behavioural responses, 24 ducks were chosen and categorised into two groups: high-active avoidance (HAA) and low-active avoidance (LAA). The study utilised phenotypic, genetic, and metabolomic analyses, coupled with bioinformatics, to identify crucial biological processes, genes, and metabolites. The results indicated that ΔW (BW gain) and average daily egg weight (ADEW) were significantly lower in the HAA group compared to the LAA group (P < 0.05). By contrast, the feed-to-egg ratio was higher in the HAA group than in the LAA group (P < 0.05). Levels of serum immunoglobulin A, total antioxidant capacity, and the activities of enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase (CAT) were significantly lower in the HAA than in the LAA group (P < 0.05), whereas serum ACTH levels were significantly higher in HAA than in the LAA group (P < 0.05). The adrenal transcriptome analysis revealed 148 differentially expressed genes in the HAA group, with 97 up-regulated and 51 down-regulated. Moreover, enrichment analysis highlighted significant differences in two metabolic pathways: neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction and oxidative phosphorylation (P < 0.05). Serum metabolomics identified 11 differentially accumulated metabolites between the groups, with variations in up and down-regulation. Integrative analysis of phenotype, transcriptome, and metabolome data showed a strong correlation between the exosome component 3 (EXOSC3) gene, phenotypic traits, and differential metabolites. Thus, we deduced that the differences in average daily egg weight among ducks could be linked to variations in gabapentin and EXOSC3 gene expressions, affecting serum CAT levels.

A Correlation Study to Comprehend the SAR-CoV-2 Viral Load, Antiviral Antibody Titer, and Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms Post-infection Amongst the Vaccinated Population in Kamrup District of As sam, Northeast India.

As per the recommendation of the United States Food and Drug Administration, more research is needed to determine the antibody titer against COVID-19 vaccination. The study aimed to understand the relationship between the antibody titer to the demographics, infection severity, and cycle threshold (CT) values of confirmed COVID-19 patients. Initially, we obtained consent from 185 populations and included sixty RT-PCRpositive COVID-19 patients from Kamrup District in the Northeast State of Assam, India. The vaccination status was recorded and tested for the level of serum immunoglobulin (IgG). The CT values, gender, and clinical symptoms-based scoring (CSBS) correlated with their IgG value. Around 48% of participants gained an antibody titer more than the threshold value and showed CT values between 18-25. Moreover, the maximum distributed score above the average was found between the CT values 18-25. The IgG titer value differs significantly amongst the vaccinated population, which may depend upon their genetic and demographic variability.

Long-term survival analysis of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome in China: A multicenter retrospective cohort study.

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term survival, causes of death, and prognostic factors in Chinese patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS). We included patients with pSS registered in the Chinese Rheumatism Data Centre between May 2016 and December 2021, and collected baseline clinical, laboratory, and treatment data. Survival and standard mortality rates were calculated using general population mortality data. Factors related to mortality were identified using Cox proportional hazards regression. Among the 8588 patients included, 274 died during a median follow-up of 4.0 years. The overall standardized mortality ratio was 1.61 (95% CI: 1.43-1.81). Overall survival rates were 98.2% at 5 years and 93.8% at 10 years. The predominant causes of death were comorbidities, including cardiovascular diseases, tumors, and infections, while the most frequent pSS-related causes of death were interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Male sex, older age, ILD, PAH, and high EULAR Sjögren's syndromedisease activity index (ESSDAI), thrombocytopenia, anemia, high immunoglobulin A (IgA) level, and glucocorticoid treatment independently increased the mortality risk, while using hydroxychloroquine was a protective factor. Mortality rates have significantly increased in Chinese patients with pSS. Comorbidities, rather than pSS-related organ damage, were the main causes of death. All-cause mortality was associated with male sex, older age, ILD, PAH, high ESSDAI, thrombocytopenia, anemia, high IgA level, and glucocorticoid treatment, whereas hydroxychloroquine use might improve the long-term survival.

Primary antibody deficiencies.

Primary antibody deficiencies are characterized by the inability to effectively produce antibodies and may involve defects in B-cell development or maturation. Primary antibody deficiencies can occur at any age, depending on the disease pathology. Certain primary antibody deficiencies affect males and females equally, whereas others affect males more often. Patients typically present with recurrent sinopulmonary and gastrointestinal infections, and some patients can experience an increased risk of opportunistic infections. Multidisciplinary collaboration is important in the management of patients with primary antibody deficiencies because these patients require heightened monitoring for atopic, autoimmune, and malignant comorbidities and complications. The underlying genetic defects associated with many primary antibody deficiencies have been discovered, but, in some diseases, the underlying genetic defect and inheritance are still unknown. The diagnosis of primary antibody deficiencies is often made through the evaluation of immunoglobulin levels, lymphocyte levels, and antibody responses. A definitive diagnosis is obtained through genetic testing, which offers specific management options and may inform future family planning. Treatment varies but generally includes antibiotic prophylaxis, vaccination, and immunoglobulin replacement. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is also an option for certain primary antibody deficiencies.

Gynostemma pentaphyllum saponins shield mice from peanut allergy by modulation of gut microbiota: A novel approach for peanut allergy management

BackgroundFood allergies, particularly peanut (PN) allergies, are a growing concern, with fatal anaphylaxis incidents often reported. While palforzia is the sole FDA-approved drug for managing PN allergies, it is not universally effective. PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the potential of Gynostemma pentaphyllum saponins (GpS) as a novel therapeutic agent for PN allergy through modulation of gut microbiota, addressing the limitations of current treatments. MethodsTo elucidate the role of GpS on peanut allergy, we first built a PN-sensitized C57BL/6J model mice. Through comprehensive sequencing analysis, we identified Parabacteroides distasonis as a key bacterium triggering PN sensitization. Employing the same mouse model, GpS was evaluated for its effects on anaphylactic symptoms, serum immunoglobulin levels, and allergy-related biomarkers. 16S rRNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis were applied to investigate the impact of GpS on the host's gut epithelium and microbiome. ResultsGpS treatment effectively reduced anaphylactic symptoms in PN-sensitized mice, as shown by decreased IgG1, total IgE, and PN-specific IgE levels. It also modulated the immune response by suppressing proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-21) and chemokines (CCL5, CCL12, CCL17, CCL22), while enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13). Fecal microbial transplant from GpS-treated Model mice to PN-sensitized mice displayed anti-peanut allergy effects. Additionally, the administration of GpS-enhanced bacteria (Clostridium aldenese or Lactobacillus murinus), alleviated anaphylactic symptoms and reduced serum allergy markers in PN-sensitized mice. ConclusionTo conclude, we revealed the intestinal environment, signaling molecules, mucosal cytokines, and commensal microbial profiles in the peanut-sensitized mouse model. We further presented evidence for the protective effect of GpS against PN allergen sensitization by downregulating a series of food-allergy-associated biomarkers and cytokines via the modulation of gut bacteria. More importantly, supported by both in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that the protective effect of GpS against PN-allergy is through the enhancement of two commensal bacteria, Clostridium aldenese, and Lactobacillus murinus.

Diagnostic tests for primary immunodeficiency disorders: Classic and genetic testing.

Primary immunodeficiency diseases encompass a variety of genetic conditions characterized by a compromised immune system and typically results in increased susceptibility to infection. In fact, they also manifest as autoimmunity, autoinflammation, atopic diseases, and malignancy. Currently, the number of recognized monogenic primary immunodeficiency disorders is set at ∼500 different entities, owing to the exponential use of unbiased genetic testing for disease discovery. In addition, the prevalence of secondary immunodeficiency has also been on the rise due to the increased use of immunosuppressive drugs to treat diseases based on immune dysregulation, an increase in the number of individuals undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and other chronic medical conditions, including autoimmunity. Although the clinical symptoms of immunodeficiency disorders are broad, an early diagnosis and tailored management strategies are essential to mitigate the risk of infections and prevent disease-associated morbidity. Generally, the medical history and physical examination can provide useful information that can help delineate the possibility of immune defects. In turn, this makes it feasible to select focused laboratory tests that identify immunodeficiency disorders based on the specific immune cells and their functions or products that are affected. Laboratory evaluation involves quantitative and functional classic testing (e.g., leukocyte counts, serum immunoglobulin levels, specific antibody titers in response to vaccines, and enumeration of lymphocyte subsets) as well as genetic testing (e.g., individual gene evaluation via Sanger sequencing or unbiased evaluation based on next-generation sequencing). However, in many cases, a diagnosis also requires additional advanced research techniques to validate genetic or other findings. This article updates clinicians about available laboratory tests for evaluating the immune system in patients with primary immunodeficiency disorders. It also provides a comprehensive list of testing options, organized based on different components of host defense.

Essential oils and capsaicin in the diet of Jersey cows at early lactation and their positive impact on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunological responses.

The objective of this work was to determine whether the addition of phytogenic compounds based on essential oils (carvacrol, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde) and resinous pepper oil (capsaicin) to the diet of Jersey cows at the beginning of lactation affects anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory responses, as well as whether there are effects of EO on blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation, digestibility and milk production and composition. Six primiparous cows (370.00 ± 17kg body weight (BW); 13.02kg dry matter intake (DMI); 21 days of lactation and average milk production of 20 ± 2L per day) were allocated to crossed experimental design (2 × 2) with two experimental periods of 28 days and two treatments. Blood, milk and rumen fluid were collected and, at the end of each period, feed and feces samples were collected to evaluate the apparent digestibility of nutrients. The groups were control (CLT) without supplementation and treated (BEO) with the addition of 150mg/kg of dry matter of the phytogenic to the concentrated portion of the diet. Cows in the BEO group had lower numbers of leukocytes (P ≤ 0.05) and lymphocytes (P ≤ 0.02), but total protein and globulin levels were higher on days 21 and 28 (P ≤ 0.01). In the BEO group, the levels of immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin heavy chain and transferrin were higher (P ≤ 0.05). The levels of ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin and C-reactive protein were lower in the BEO group (P ≤ 0.05). Lipid peroxidation levels and protein carbonyl content were lower in the BEO group. The total antioxidant capacity (P ≤ 0.09) and the activity of glutathione S-transferase (P ≤ 0.03) and glutathione peroxidase (P ≤ 0.05) were higher in the BEO group. Cows in the BEO group had lower pH (P ≤ 0.05), acetic acid concentrations (P ≤ 0.01) and higher protozoa counts (P ≤ 0.01). Our results suggest that phytogenic supplementation has positive effects on the health of Jersey cows in early lactation, characterized by immunostimulant, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.