Blood Creatinine Levels Research Articles

Growth, Feed Efficiency, and Health Status of Tilapia sp. Fed with New Technology Promoter Binder Fortified Diet

Developing a sustainable feed with minimal or no fishmeal in tilapia production is a challenge to this industry. New Technology Promoter Binder (NTPB), a guanidinoacetic acid, is a nutritional supplement to enhance the energy metabolism of the muscle and brain tissue of vertebrates. This study aimed to evaluate several plant-based diet formulations with zero and minimal use of fishmeal enriched with NTPB on the growth, feed efficiency, and health status of Tilapia sp. The experimental diets in this study were conducted based on four formulations (minimum fishmeal/FM and zero fishmeal/NFM-based diets) with 0, 0.6, and 1.2 mg·kg−1 feed of NTPB supplementation. The research indicated that the various diets given to tilapia affected the growth performance of fish in terms of growth parameters and feed efficiency. Tilapias fed with NTPB grew better than those without NPTB in both FM- and NFM-based diets. The addition of NTPB was safe for tilapia as demonstrated in the blood glucose, urea, and creatinine levels, which were normal for healthy fish. The viscerosomatic and hepatosomatic indexes of tilapia fed with the experimental diets showed no distinct differences. Adding NTPB to tilapia diets increased the hardness and amino acid contents of the tilapia’s muscle, which would benefit consumers.

An early HMGB1 rise 12 hours before creatinine predicts acute kidney injury and multiple organ failure in a smoke inhalation and burn swine model

BackgroundAcute kidney injury (AKI) and multiple organ failure (MOF) are leading causes of mortality in trauma injuries. Early diagnosis of AKI and MOF is vital to improve outcomes, but current diagnostic criteria rely on laboratory markers that are delayed or unreliable. In this study, we investigated whether damage associated molecular patterns such as high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), syndecan-1 (SDC-1) and C3a correlate with the development of trauma-induced AKI and MOF. MethodsThirty-nine swine underwent smoke inhalation and severe burns, then received critical care for 72 hours or until death. AKI was defined by the KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) criteria, which labels AKI when a 1.5-fold increase in blood creatinine levels from baseline or a urine output < 0.5 mL/kg/h for 6 hours or more occurs. MOF was defined by the presence of both AKI and acute respiratory distress syndrome (PaO2/FiO2<300 for 4 hours). ResultsEight of 39 pigs developed AKI and seven of those developed MOF. Pathological analysis revealed that polytrauma induces significantly higher kidney injury scores compared to sham controls. The average time from injury to KDIGO AKI was 24 hours (interquartile range: 22.50-32.25). Twelve hours after injury, HMGB1 levels were significantly increased in animals that went on to develop AKI compared to those that did not (73.07 ± 18.66 ng/mL vs. 31.64 ± 4.15 ng/mL, p<0.01), as well as in animals that developed MOF compared to those that did not (81.52±19.68 ng/mL vs. 31.19 ± 3.972 ng/mL, p<0.05). SDC-1 and C3a levels were not significantly different at any time point between groups. ROC analysis revealed that HMGB1 levels at 12 hours post-injury were predictive of both AKI and MOF development (AKI: AUROC=0.81, cut-off value=36.41 ng/mL; MOF: AUROC=0.89, cut-off value=36.41 ng/mL). Spearman’s correlation revealed that HMGB1 levels at 12 hours correlated with multiple parameters of AKI, including blood urea nitrogen, blood creatinine, and blood myoglobin. ConclusionTwelve-hour post-injury HMGB1 levels predict AKI and MOF in a smoke inhalation and burn swine model. Further research is needed to validate this result in other polytrauma models and in critical combat causalities.

Identification of circulating microbial DNA and its association with kidney function in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

Recently, substantial studies have been accumulated to indicate the important role of gut microbiota in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The abnormal change of bacterial-derived products could imply specific injuries or play beneficial or harmful roles in DKD progression. In this study, we examined the presence and contribution of the Klebsiella oxytoca gene in the circulation of patients with DKD. We enrolled a total of 16 healthy participants, 17 patients with DKD, 5 patients with DKD requiring haemodialysis (HD), and 7 patients with CKD without diabetes. Bacterial-derived DNA (16S rDNA and a specific K. oxytoca gene) in the blood was detected using droplet digital PCR, then investigated the relationship with clinical characteristics. We identified an increase in K. oxytoca genes in the blood of DKD patients. Interestingly, blood K. oxytoca copies and K. oxytoca/ 16S DNA ratio correlated with higher blood creatinine and BUN levels together with lower eGFR in DKD patients. K. oxytoca levels were also associated with higher neutrophil percentage, lower lymphocyte frequency, and increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Collectively, the presence of the K. oxytoca gene in the circulation could serve as a biomarker reflecting reduced renal function in DKD patients.

Lower Free Thyroxine Levels Are Associated with Diabetic Kidney Disease in Males with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study.

Objectives: We aimed to explore the correlation between thyroid function and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: A total of 7516 T2DM patients were enrolled and grouped according to DKD status. Clinical parameters, including blood glucose parameters, thyroid function, and indicators of renal impairment, were collected and compared between the DKD and Non-DKD groups. Correlation analysis and univariate/multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Age, T2DM duration, the use of insulin and lipid-lowering drugs, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, body mass index, and fasting blood glucose levels were greater in the DKD group than in the Non-DKD group (p < 0.001). Notably, compared with those in the Non-DKD group, patients in the DKD group had lower triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4) levels and higher thyrotropin levels (p < 0.001). Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that T3, T4, FT3, and FT4 levels were negatively correlated with the risk of DKD. Spearman correlation analysis confirmed that T3, T4, FT3, and FT4 levels were negatively correlated with blood urea nitrogen levels, blood creatinine levels, and the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a greater FT4 level was a protective factor against DKD in T2DM patients, especially in males, with a cut-off value of 13.35 pmol/L (area under the curve = 0.604). Conclusions: Thyroid hormone levels, especially FT4 levels, were significantly negatively correlated with DKD in T2DM patients.

Alterations of Nutrient Elements in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Treated with Atezolizumab-Bevacizumab

Currently, the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) is recommended as the first-line therapy for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there is a lack of research on the levels of nutrient elements in advanced HCC patients receiving Atez/Bev treatment. In this study, data from 35 patients with advanced HCC and 37 healthy individuals of similar age and sex were included. The levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased in patients with HCC. These levels returned to the reference range after three rounds of Atez/Bev treatment. Additionally, the levels of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine (Cr) increased after Atez/Bev treatment. In HCC patients, the levels of calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu) were significantly higher, while the levels of sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), and zinc (Zn) were significantly lower compared to healthy individuals. These changes were reversed after Atez/Bev treatment. In conclusion, our findings indicate that treatment with Atez/Bev influences the levels of Ca, Fe, Cu, Na, Mg, and Zn in patients with HCC. The alterations in these elements caused by Atez/Bev treatment require mechanistic research in the future.

Silent brain ischemia within the TAXINOMISIS framework: association with clinical and advanced ultrasound metrics.

IntroductionThe relationship between carotid artery stenosis (CAS) and ipsilateral silent brain ischemia (SBI) remains unclear, with uncertain therapeutic implications. The present study, part of the TAXINOMISIS project (nr. 755,320), aimed to investigate SBIs in patients with asymptomatic CAS, correlating them with clinical, carotid ultrasonographic data, and CFD analyses.MethodsThe TAXINOMISIS clinical trial study (nr. NCT03495830) involved six vascular surgery centers across Europe, enrolling patients with asymptomatic and symptomatic CAS ranging from 50 to 99%. Patients underwent carotid ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including brain diffusion-weighted, T2-weighted/FLAIR, and T1-weighted sequences. Brain MRI scans were analyzed for the presence of SBI according to established definitions. Ultrasound assessments included Doppler and CFD analysis. Only asymptomatic patients were included in this substudy.ResultsAmong 195 asymptomatic patients, the mean stenosis (NASCET) was 64.1%. Of these, a total of 33 patients (16.9%) had at least one SBI detected on a brain MRI scan. Specifically, 19 out of 33 patients (57.6%) had cortical infarcts, 4 out of 33 patients (12.1%) had ipsilateral lacunar infarcts, 6 out of 33 patients had (18.2%) subcortical infarcts, 1 out of 33 patients (3.0%) had both cortical and lacunar infarcts, and 3 out of 33 patients (9.1%) both cortical and subcortical infarcts. Patients with SBIs exhibited significantly higher risk factors, including a higher body mass index (28.52 ± 9.38 vs. 26.39 ± 3.35, p = 0.02), diastolic blood pressure (80.87 ± 15.73 mmHg vs. 80.06 ± 8.49 mmHg, p = 0.02), creatinine levels (93.66 ± 34.61 μmol/L vs. 84.69 ± 23.67 μmol/L, p = 0.02), and blood triglycerides (1.8 ± 1.06 mmol/L vs. 1.48 ± 0.78 mmol/L, p = 0.03). They also had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular interventions (29.6% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.04), greater usage of third/fourth-line antihypertensive treatment (50%vs16%, p = 0.03), and anticoagulant medications (60% vs. 16%, p = 0.01). Additionally, the number of contralateral cerebral infarcts was higher in patients with SBIs (35.5% vs. 13.4%, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Moreover, carotid ultrasound revealed higher Saint Mary’s ratios (15.33 ± 12.45 vs. 12.96 ± 7.99, p = 0.02), and CFD analysis demonstrated larger areas of low wall shear stress (WSS) (0.0004 ± 0.0004 m2 vs. 0.0002 ± 0.0002 m2, p &amp;lt; 0.01).ConclusionThe TAXINOMISIS clinical trial provides valuable insights into the prevalence and risk factors associated with SBIs in patients with moderate asymptomatic carotid stenosis. The findings suggest that specific hemodynamic and arterial wall characteristics may contribute to the development of silent brain infarcts.

Patient Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes During the 2020-2021 COVID-19 Wave: An Observational Study at a Tertiary Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Background and objective The continued prevalence and threat of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported, and evidence suggests that several people still get infected with the virus. Gaining a thorough understanding of the patient demographic factors and laboratory findings could contributeto assessing the severity, mortality, and progression of COVID-19. In light of this, the current study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, laboratory findings, and outcomes of confirmed COVID-19 patients at a tertiary hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methodology We collected data spanning the period 2020-2021 from the electronic health records of Al-Noor Specialized Hospital, Maincluding demographics (age, gender, and nationality), severity (i.e., ICU admission), length of hospital stay, mortality, and laboratory parameters. Results We observed an overall mortality rate of10.2% (338 of 3,307 patients). The mortality rate was significantly higher in males (n=210; 62.1%) and patients aged more than 70 years (n=91; 26.9%). Patients with blood group O comprised 131 (29%) of the 338 non-survivors, followed by those with A (n=85; 25.1%) and Bgroups (n=79; 23.4%). The mortality rate among ICU patients was 63.3% (n=214). Furthermore, the following laboratory findings showed abnormal mean values in terms of severity and mortality in COVID-19 patients: hemoglobin (HB) concentration, white blood cell (WBC) count, lymphocyte count (LC), C-reactive protein (CRP), creatinine (CREA), and uric acid (UA) levels. Conclusions Old age, male gender, and certain laboratory findings have a critical role inthe severity and mortality risk in COVID-19 patients. There was no significant association between blood type and the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Continuous monitoring based on these findings may be essential to managing COVID-19 patients.

Prevalence of canine renal insufficiency: A decade-long retrospective study in and around Patna, Bihar

This retrospective study investigates the prevalence and epidemiological factors associated with renal insufficiency in dogs within Patna, Bihar, India. Out of 5,700 dogs with various illnesses, 317 were diagnosed with renal insufficiency, identified by serum creatinine levels exceeding 5 mg/dL. The study assessed the incidence of renal insufficiency across different demographics, including age, sex, breed, and season. The highest incidence was observed in dogs aged 8-10 years, with males showing a higher prevalence than females. Pomeranians (32.18%), Labrador Retrievers (25.55%), and German Shepherds (20.82%) were the most affected breeds. Seasonally, the post-monsoon period (September-November) exhibited the highest incidence (37.85%) of renal disorders. Laboratory investigations revealed significant haematological and biochemical alterations in affected dogs, including lower haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, and packed cell volume, alongside elevated serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, potassium, and phosphorus. Ultrasonography indicated decreased renal size and increased echogenicity in dogs with renal insufficiency. The study concludes that renal insufficiency in dogs is most prevalent in older males and certain breeds, particularly during the post-monsoon season. Regular monitoring of serum BUN and creatinine levels is recommended for early diagnosis and management of this condition.

Epidemiology and clinical characteristics of acute viral gastroenteritis in 350 paediatric patients hospitalised between 2019 and 2022 in the Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute in Warsaw, Poland: a single-centre retrospective analysis

Introduction and objective: Acute gastroenteritis, a common childhood illness worldwide, manifests with symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. It is highly contagious, with transmission occurring through contaminated water, food, or poor hygiene. Globally, 1.7 billion cases of diarrhoeal diseases are diagnosed annually, causing approximately 525,000 deaths among children under the age of five. Dehydration caused by diarrhoea is a primary cause of hospitalisation, particularly in developing countries. Aim: Analysis of the aetiology, frequency, and seasonal distribution of viral pathogens responsible for acute gastroenteritis in children hospitalised between 2019 and 2022 at the Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute in Warsaw, Poland. Materials and methods: Medical records of patients aged 0 to 18 diagnosed with rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus-induced acute gastroenteritis were analysed. The pathogens had been identified with reliable immunochromatographic tests. Exclusion criteria encompassed bacterial infections, dietary errors, and inflammatory conditions. Data examined included age, gender, aetiology of gastroenteritis, seasonality, duration of hospitalisation, and clinical symptoms (diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, and dehydration). Laboratory results such as white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, electrolyte levels, and organ function markers were also evaluated. Results: Data from 350 children hospitalised between 2019 and 2022 were analysed. The highest number of hospitalisations occurred in 2019 and 2022, with fewer cases in 2020–2021, likely reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most patients were between 6 and 12 months old. Rotavirus infection commonly presented with fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and dehydration. Adenovirus and mixed infections were associated with slightly higher C-reactive protein levels, while rotavirus infections showed mildly elevated aspartate aminotransferase levels. Haematocrit, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and electrolyte levels were similar across all cases. Conclusions: Our analysis showed that rotavirus was the most frequent cause of acute viral diarrhoea in children, followed by norovirus and adenovirus, with mixed infections being the least common. The peak incidence occurred in autumn and winter, except in 2021, reflecting changes in the dynamics of infections related to the coronavirus pandemic. Biochemical findings were not sufficiently characteristic to infer the aetiology of the disease.

STAT3 blockade ameliorates LPS-induced kidney injury through macrophage-driven inflammation

BackgroundSignal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a multifaceted transcription factor, modulates host immune responses by activating cellular response to signaling ligands. STAT3 has a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of kidney injury by counterbalancing resident macrophage phenotypes under inflammation conditions. However, STAT3’s role in acute kidney injury (AKI), particularly in macrophage migration, and in chronic kidney disease (CKD) through fibrosis development, remains unclear.MethodsStattic (a JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor, 5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) was administered to evaluate the therapeutic effect on LPS-induced AKI (L-AKI) and LPS-induced CKD (L-CKD), with animals sacrificed 6–24 h and 14 days post-LPS induction, respectively. The immune mechanisms of STAT3 blockade were determined by comparing the macrophage phenotypes and correlated with renal function parameters. Also, the transcriptomic analysis was used to confirm the anti-inflammatory effect of L-AKI, and the anti-fibrotic role was further evaluated in the L-CKD model.ResultsIn the L-AKI model, sequential increases in BUN and blood creatinine levels were time-dependent, with a marked elevation of 0–6 h after LPS injection. Notably, two newly identified macrophage subpopulations (CD11bhighF4/80low and CD11blowF4/80high), exhibited population changes, with an increase in the CD11bhighF4/80low population and a decrease in the CD11blowF4/80high macrophages. Corresponding to the FACS results, the tubular injury score, NGAL, F4/80, and p-STAT3 expression in the tubular regions were elevated. STAT3 inhibitor injection in L-AKI and L-CKD mice reduced renal injury and fibrosis. M2-type subpopulation with CD206 in CD11blowF4/80high population increased in the Stattic-treated group compared with that in the LPS-alone group in the L-AKI model. Additionally, STAT3 inhibitor reduced inflammation driven by LPS-stimulated macrophages and epithelial cells injury in the co-culture system. Transcriptomic profiling identified 3 common genes in the JAK-STAT, TLR, and TNF signaling pathways and 11 common genes in the LPS with macrophage response. The PI3K-AKT (IL-6, Akt3, and Pik3r1) and JAK-STAT pathways were determined as potential Stattic targets. Further confirmation through mRNA and protein expressions analyses showed that Stattic treatment reduced inflammation in the L-AKI and fibrosis in the L-CKD mice.ConclusionsSTAT3 blockade effectively mitigated inflammation by retrieving the CD11blowF4/80high population, further emphasizing the role of STAT3-associated macrophage-driven inflammation in kidney injury.

B-123 Prediction of Opioid Use Duration in Post-Surgical Orthopedic Patients Using CYP2D6 Inhibitor Index and Routine Laboratory Markers

Abstract Background Hydrocodone, the most commonly prescribed opioid in the U.S., is typically used for pain management following surgery and is a known potential drug of abuse with non-negligible risk of addiction. Significant variability in patients’ response to hydrocodone therapy have been reported, owing to both iatrogenic and endogenous sources. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of predicting post-discharge hydrocodone use in patients who have undergone orthopedic surgery using patient demographics, genotyping, concurrently prescribed medications, and routinely collected laboratory test results. Methods Targeted genotyping was performed on each patient with genes known to affect hydrocodone pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics, including CYP2D6, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP2B6, COMT, OPRM1, and ABCB1. An inhibition index for CYP2D6 was calculated by ranking concurrently prescribed medications as weak, moderate, or strong inhibitors of enzyme activity. Pain index, average hydrocodone dose per day during hospital stay, and CYP2D6 estimated activity scores based on allele functionality were included as predictors. In addition, a retrospective chart review of electronic hospital records was performed where basic metabolic panel and complete blood count results were screened within 10 days of each patient's surgery date. Two types of classification and decision tree algorithms were tuned and validated as prediction models using 5-fold cross validation, including a ‘Fast and Frugal Decision Tree’ (FFTree) and an extreme gradient boosting machine (xgBoost). Clinical predictive features were ranked according to the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) values using the xgBoost model. Results Out of 79 total patients with hydrocodone use duration information, 25 were categorized as “Short” and 54 categorized as “Long” using a 1-week threshold. FFTree model selected the top three features of CYP2D6 inhibition index, blood sodium level, and blood creatinine level and obtained a sensitivity and specificity of 0.80 and 0.76, respectively. The xgBoost model, using the same three features, achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 0.872 and 0.628, respectively, an AUROC of 0.814, PRAUC of 0.912, net benefit of 0.359, and was well-calibrated with a Brier score of 0.161. Consistent with previously published results, the predictive capacity of all genotypes analyzed were unremarkable and consistently ranked as the least important features by the xgBoost model SHAP values, due to their low predictive value. Conclusions Both the FFTree and xgBoost models were able to adequately classify the patients according to a 1-week stratification criteria with good to excellent classification performance. Patients with larger CYP2D6 inhibition index were more likely to be classified as “Long” duration. Sodium and creatinine level, which may reflect hydration status and renal function, and therefore hydromorphone elimination rate, were key predictors of post-discharge hydrocodone use duration when combined with the CYP2D6 inhibition index. Further refinement of the proposed models and validation of model robustness and stability using external cohorts is necessary. These results may have implications for providers when prescribing hydrocodone for pain management, where the ability to risk-stratify patients according to their predicted probability of developing opioid use disorder is of clinical importance.

Effect of phosphatase and tensin homolog-induced putative kinase 1/ E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin mediated mitochondrial autophagy on chronic kidney disease myocardial injury and the intervention mechanism of Shenshuai recipe.

To study whether Shenshuai recipe (, SSR) can play a protective role on chronic kidney disease myocardial injury model through phosphatase and tensin homolog-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1)/E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin (Parkin) mitochondrial autophagy pathway. Forty-eight nephrectomized rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham-operated group, model group, Benazepril group, low, medium and high-dose groups of SSR. The rats were given the cor-responding intervention for six weeks, then were sacrificed. Serum was examined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cardiac ultrasound was used to detect cardiac function in 5/6 nephrectomized rats. Myocardial tissue was examined by light and electron microscopy; PINK1, Parkin, microtubule-associated protein1 light chain 3 II (LC3B), sequestosome 1 (P62), BECN1 (Beclin-1) and dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp-1) were measured by real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The expression levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (SCr) in the model group were significantly higher than those in the sham-operated group, indicating that modeling was successful. SSR can protect myocardium by reducing the relative expression of creatine kinase myocardial isoenzyme and hypersensitivity cardiac troponin I (P<0.05). SSR can improve cardiac function in rats after ultrasound testing. SSR can improve the pathological manifestations of myocardial tissue after Masson staining. SSR can increase the number of autophagosomes and autophagiclysosomes in 5/6 nephrectomized rats (P<0.05). Determined by RT-PCR, WB and IHC, SSR can increase the relative expression of PINK1, Parkin, and LC3B (P<0.05), and decrease the relative expression of P62, Beclin-1 and Drp-1 (P<0.05). The PINK1/Parkin mitochondrial autophagy pathway in myocardial tissues in 5/6 nephrectomy CKD myocardial injury rats was inhibited. SSR can activate PINK1/Parkin mitochondrial autophagy to enhance mitochondrial autophagy, and play a protective role in myocardial tissues.

Neoastilbin ameliorates sepsis-induced liver and kidney injury by blocking the TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Sepsis frequently causes systemic inflammatory response syndrome and multiple organ failure in patients. Neoastilbin (NAS) is a flavonoid that plays vital functions in inflammation. This work aims to investigate the protective effects of NAS against sepsis-induced liver and kidney injury and elucidate its underlying mechanisms. The mouse model was established using cecal ligation puncture (CLP) induction. NAS was given to mice by gavage for 7 consecutive days before surgery. Liver and kidney function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory factors in serum or tissues were examined by ELISA or related kits. The expression of relevant proteins was assessed by Western blot. Hematoxylin and eosin and/or periodic acid-Schiff staining revealed that NAS ameliorated the pathological damage in liver and kidney tissues of CLP-induced mice. NAS improved liver and kidney functions, as evidenced by elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen, Creatinine, ALT, and AST in the serum of septic mice. TUNEL assay and the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax showed that NAS dramatically reduced apoptosis in liver and renal tissues. NAS treatment lowered the levels of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde, while elevated the superoxide dismutase content in liver and kidney tissues of CLP-induced mice. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) in the serum and both tissues of CLP-injured mice were markedly decreased by NAS. Mechanically, NAS downregulated TLR4 expression and inhibited NF-κB activation, and overexpression of TLR4 reversed the protective effects of NAS against liver and kidney injury. Collectively, NAS attenuated CLP-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and dysfunction in the liver and kidney by restraining the TLR4/NF-κB pathway.

Efficacy of oral AB070597 for the management of chronic kidney disease in cats: a prospective, randomised, controlled parallel-group study.

It has been reported that AB070597, which contains amino acids and peptides, may prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of AB070597 on CKD in International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stage 2 or 3 cats compared with a placebo. A prospective, randomised, controlled parallel-group study was conducted on 35 cats with CKD. The cats were randomly allocated to receive 300 mg of AB070597 or placebo for 180 days, and cats were re-examined every 30 days. Changes in the results were compared from baseline to endpoint in each group, and the efficacy of AB070597 in cats with CKD was assessed. A total of 35 cats met the inclusion criteria, of which 20 received AB070597 and 15 received a placebo. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cre) and phosphorus levels increased significantly in the placebo group at 180 days compared with those at baseline, 30 days and 60 days, whereas these values were not significantly changed in the AB070597 group during the study period. The IRIS stage was also stable in cats with AB070597 from the baseline to the end of the study, whereas the IRIS stage progressed from stage 2 to stage 3 in 26% of cats with placebo. Body weight did not change significantly in either group. The administration of AB070597 in cats with CKD may be effective in preventing CKD progression.

Геронтологические особенности влияния новой коронавирусной инфекции на показатели интерлейкинового профиля, воспаления и эндогенной интоксикации у пациентов зрелого и пожилого возраста с ишемической болезнью сердца

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is considered as an independent risk factor for COVID19, however, the indicators of inflammation and endogenous intoxication in patients with CHD 3-4 weeks after recovery from COVID-19 have not been the subject of scientific research. The aim of the study: Assessment of the gerontological features of the effect of the transferred new coronavirus infection on the indicators of the interleukin profile, inflammation and endogenous intoxication of mature and elderly patients with coronary heart disease in the early stages of recovery. Materials and methods: The study included 58 mature-age patients with coronary heart disease 3-4 weeks after recovery from COVID-19 of moderate severity, who made up the comparison group. The main group of patients was represented by 62 elderly people with coronary heart disease who had suffered a new coronavirus infection and were examined in the same way as the previous group, 3-4 weeks after recovery. The level of C-reactive protein and highly sensitive C-reactive protein in the blood was studied using the Nicomed-reader express analyzer, and antistreptolysin-O was studied using an immunoturbidimetric method on the Cobas 600 analyzer (Switzerland). The blood levels of bilirubin, urea, creatinine and sialic acids were studied using the ROKI biochemical analyzer. The content of systemic cytokines was determined by the Beckton Dickinson FACS Canto 2 (USA). The level of anxiety and depression was studied on the HADS scale. Results: 3-4 weeks after recovery from COVID-19, antistreptolysin-O levels ranged from 120.9 МЕ/ml to 208.1 МЕ/ml. Significant changes among the considered parameters of inflammation and endogenous intoxication in patients with coronary heart disease in old age during recovery from a new coronavirus infection were accompanied by a change in the content of highly sensitive C-reactive protein in peripheral blood. In the early stages of recovery after COVID-19, in elderly patients with coronary heart disease, the concentration of many studied cytokines in blood plasma remained elevated compared with those aged 45-59 years. The excess of reference values in both groups was found for IL-17, TNF-α and IFN-α, and among elderly patients – for IL-3, IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-17. Conclusion: Antistreptolysin-O, highly sensitive C-reactive protein, C-reactive protein can be considered markers of recovery in patients with combined coronary heart disease in the early stages after a new coronavirus infection.

Tacrolimus Therapy Among Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome Children: A Preliminary Study in West Java, Indonesia

Objective: To explore the outcomes of Tac therapy for Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome (SRNS) and its implication in reducing the number of CKD events.Methods: An open, prospective, cohort study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. Children (age 1–18 years old) with steroid and cyclophosphamide resistant nephrotic syndrome were enrolled in this study. Blood pressure, urinary protein, serum ureum, and creatinine levels were measured every month, Tac and soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (supaR) levels were assessed at the 0, third, and sixth months.Results: Ten of fifteen subjects enrolled in this study got better within 3–6 months with a trend of decreasing suPAR level and proteinuria, as well as stable blood pressure and serum creatinine and ureum level. During treatment, no side effects of the subjects were found with the Tac level maintain safely.Conclusion: Tac is an effective and safe agent in treating SRNS, especially for those do not respond well to an alkylating agent.

Combined Effects of Cypermethrin and Lead on Biochemical and Molecular Parameters in Albino Mice

In this study, the combined toxicity of cypermethrin and lead were investigated using molecular and biochemical parameters in albino mice. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP),blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were studied and used as indicators of toxicity. Comet test was also utilized to evaluate the mechanism of genotoxicity of cypermethrin, lead and the ) cypermethrin and lead) group. Albino mice were divided into eight groups and given intraperitoneal cypermethrin injections at 1.75 mg/kg/day and lead nitrate at 1.75 mg/kg/day, and combined doses of each one respectively. Blood samples were collected after two and four weeks. Cypermethrin raised AST, AL, BUN and creatinine levels as treatment time and doses rose, as did lead nitrate which elevated liver and kidney parameters in response to the toxicant. As evaluated by comet test molecular characteristics, the impact of cypermethrin and lead nitrate was an increase in DNA damage.

Assessment and Laboratory Screening Test of Abnormal Blood Creatinine Level among Hypertensive Patient Attending at Some Selected Hospitals in Mogadishu Somalia

Assessment and Laboratory Screening Test of Abnormal Blood Creatinine Level among Hypertensive Patient Attending at Some Selected Hospitals in Mogadishu Somalia

Time to recovery from severe community-acquired pneumonia and its determinants among older adults admitted to North Wollo hospitals: A multi-centred cohort study.

Severe community-acquired pneumonia presents a looming threat to older adults globally, often resulting in alarming mortality rates. Despite advancements in treatment, challenges persist, exacerbated by factors like increasing comorbidity. As age rises, so does the risk of mortality and prolonged recovery periods. Particularly in low-income countries such as Ethiopia, the burden of severe community-acquired pneumonia is staggering. Yet, research on the estimated time to recovery and its determinants among older adults in this region remains insufficient, demanding urgent attention. Hence, in this study we endeavour to uncover insights into the recovery time and contributing factors among older adults. We conducted a multi-centred retrospective cohort study among 422 older adults aged >65 years. We collected data using a structured checklist, and the final sample was meticulously selected using a systematic sampling technique. We computed Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank tests to compare survival curves. We assessed multicollinearity using variance inflation factors. Further, we employed a Cox regression model to identify significant determinants, with model fitness evaluated using a Cox-Snell residual plot. Statistical significance was declared at a P ≤ 0.05. In this study, 79.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 75.58-83.29) of patients achieved recovery, with a median time to recovery from severe community-acquired pneumonia of 19 days. Age >75 years, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, elevated creatinine level and baseline white blood cells greater than 11.0 × 109/L were found to be significant determinants. On average, older adults take 19 days to recover from severe community-acquired pneumonia. Recovery times are notably longer for individuals aged >75 years, those with comorbidities, and those with elevated white blood cell and creatinine levels. Therefore, tailored interventions addressing these specific factors could potentially improve patient outcomes.

Taraxasterol attenuates zearalenone-induced kidney damage in mice by modulating oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress

Taraxasterol is one of the bioactive ingredients from traditional Chinese herb Taraxacum, which exhibits multiple pharmacological activities and protective effects. However, the underlying influence and mechanism of its use against kidney damage caused from zearalenone (ZEA) remain unexplored. The ZEA-induced kidney damage model of mice was established by feeding diets containing ZEA (2 mg/kg), and taraxasterol (5 and 10 mg/kg) was administered by gavage for 28 days. Results demonstrated taraxasterol increased average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI), reduced feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) and kidney index of mice induced by ZEA. Taraxasterol alleviated histopathological changes of kidney, reduced ZEA residue and the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid (UA), and creatinine (CRE). Concurrently, taraxasterol reduced the contents of oxidative stress indicator reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Further, taraxasterol up-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), GSH-Px, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of KELCH like ECH associated protein (Keap1) in Nrf2/Keap1 pathway. Taraxasterol down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of immunoglobulin binding protein (Bip), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), Bcl-2 associated X (Bax), cysteine protease (Caspase)-12, and Caspase-3, and up-regulated B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression in endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. This study suggests that taraxasterol attenuates ZEA-induced mouse kidney damage through the modulation of Nrf2/Keapl pathway to play antioxidant role and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway to enhance anti-apoptotic ability. It will provide a basis for taraxasterol as a potential drug to prevent and treat ZEA-induced kidney damage.