Serum Total Protein Levels Research Articles

Gamma interferon as a superior diagnostic marker in tuberculous pleural effusion: A comparative analysis with adenosine deaminase

Background: The diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) poses a massive problem during tuberculosis (TB) control worldwide. This study set out to find the role of Interferon Gamma (IFN-γ) and Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) in pleural fluid as markers for early diagnosis of TPE to improve the accuracy and, hence, the opportunity for early and effective intervention for patients. Aims and Objectives: (i) The aims and objectives of the study are to compare the levels of IFN-γ and ADA in pleural fluid samples from patients with tuberculous and non-TPEs; (ii) to determine the diagnostic accuracy of these biomarkers in differentiating TPE from other causes; and (iii) to analyze the correlation of IFN-γ and ADA levels with other routine diagnostic parameters for TB. Materials and Methods: The study adopted a forwardlooking, case–control methodology to compare outcomes across groups. One hundred individuals presenting with pleural effusion were selected for participation. This cohort was divided evenly, with 50 individuals identified with TPE and 50 showing non-tuberculous types of effusion, including those caused by parapneumonic and cancerous processes. Eligible participants were aged between 20 and 60 years and tested negative for the human immunodeficiency virus. Exclusion criteria included pleural effusion arising from viral infections, pregnancy or breastfeeding status, adverse drug reactions affecting the skin, or empyema. Thoracocentesis was performed to collect pleural fluid following participants’ informed consent under sterile conditions. The analysis of pleural fluid encompassed measurements of IFN-γ through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques and ADA levels through an ADA assay kit. In addition, venous blood was drawn to conduct routine hematological and biochemical tests, including evaluating serum lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, albumin, and cholesterol levels. Results: It was found that the mean level of IFN-γ was significantly (P < 0.00001) higher in patients with TPE, 186.66 ± 134.46 pg/mL, as compared to the level in non-tuberculous effusion 47.53 ± 68.94 pg/mL. Similarly, the difference in ADA level was also significant (P = 0.016) between the two groups. The mean level of ADA was significantly (P = 0.016) higher in TPE, 135.93 ± 239 U/L, compared to the level in non-tuberculous effusion, 58.86 ± 87.83 U/L. Conclusion: The significant elevation in IFN-γ and ADA levels in TPE patients re-emphasizes their potential as specific markers in this clinical condition and suggests considering IFN-γ in combination with ADA as valuable parameters in the differentiation of tuberculous from non-tuberculous effusions and thereby, this advancement in the realm of quick markers of diagnosis would play a crucial role in the refinement of diagnosis strategy in TB which would be of immense help in improving the patients’ outcome.

Fractional excretion of total protein in patients with nephrotic syndrome.

The urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) correlates well with the 24-h urine protein test (24-h UPT) and is a reliable indicator of proteinuria. However, in nephrotic syndrome, the correlation between the UPCR and the 24-h UPT tends to decrease. To address this, we introduced the fractional excretion of total protein (FETP), which reflects serum total protein and creatinine levels because severe hypoproteinemia and/or elevated serum creatinine levels tend to occur under these conditions. The 24-h UPT corrected for body surface area (BSA) (24-h UPT/BSA) was used to take body size into consideration. The correlation coefficients for 24-h UPT/BSA and FETP and 24-h UPT/BSA and UPCR were calculated. The statistical significance of the differences between these coefficients was also calculated. Thirty-six pediatric patients with nephrotic syndrome were included in this study. The FETP was calculated as total protein clearance/creatinine clearance (%). Correlation coefficients were calculated for 24-h UPT/BSA and FETP and 24-h UPT/BSA and UPCR. The statistical significance of the differences between these coefficients was also calculated. The mean ± standard error of FETP was 0.11% ± 0.013%. The correlation coefficients of FETP and UPCR with 24-h UPT/BSA were 0.91 and 0.81, respectively. The FETP demonstrated a significantly stronger correlation with 24-h UPT/BSA than with UPCR (p = 0.01). The FETP correlated more strongly with 24-h UPT/BSA than with UPCR in patients with nephrotic syndrome. The FETP is a reliable indicator of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome, especially in patients with severe hypoproteinemia or elevated serum creatinine levels.

The hepatoprotective effects of sitagliptin against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity in rat.

Hepatotoxicity is a serious side effects of cyclophosphamide. Thus, the present research investigates the protective properties of sitagliptin against cyclophosphamide-induced hepatotoxicity. Fifty male rats were randomly divided into five groups. They were pre-treated with either sitagliptin or normal saline once a day for the first ten days of the study. To induce acute hepatotoxicity, cyclophosphamide (200 mg/kg, i.p) was injected only one time and 45 min after the last dose of sitagliptin. The rats were sacrificed on the 11th day, and their blood and liver were collected for biochemical, gene expression, and histopathological assessments. Our results showed that cyclophosphamide induced obvious liver toxicity as marked by an increase in serum levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase, reduced serum albumin and total protein levels, in addition to histopathological changes. The malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 levels were also elevated and total antioxidant capacity declined in serum and hepatic homogenates. Sitagliptin magnificently attenuated the cylophosphamide-induced histological alterations, improved liver function tests, enhanced total antioxidant capacity, and decreased malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 in the blood and hepatic tissues. These findings suggest that sitagliptin has hepatoprotective activity against cyclophosphamide toxicity, which may be due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

The Use of Perovskia abrotanoides Extract in Ameliorating Heat Stress‐Induced Oxidative Damage and Improving Growth Efficiency in Carp Juveniles (Cyprinus carpio)

Herbal extracts have been successfully used as feed additives in fish culture with attractive growth‐promoting, immunostimulant, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties for several fish and shellfish species. Therefore, we have designed a feeding trial to assess the impacts of dietary incorporation of Perovskia abrotanoides extract (PAE) on common carp (Cyprinus carpio). For this purpose, five isonitrogenous (35% protein) and isocaloric (~4,000 kcal/kg) diets have been supplied by supplementing PAE at the varying inclusion levels as 0.0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% diets, and growth performance and feed utilization, digestive enzyme activities, serum biochemical variables, antioxidant responses, and immunological factors were studied. The experiment continued for 60 days. At the termination of the experiment, the mean final weight, weight gain percentage (WG%), feed conversion rate (FCR), and specific growth rate (SGR) have been improved significantly in all fish groups fed PAE‐based diets with regard to those fed the reference diets. A second‐order polynomial regression equations indicate that the optimum dietary supplementation level of PAE in fish diets was ~1%. Serum cortisol, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, and malondialdehyde levels as well as catalase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly decreased generally in all PAE‐supplemented groups compared to the control groups before and/or after high‐temperature stress (32°C). Moreover, serum total protein, albumin, and total immunoglobulin levels as well as ACH50, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities were increased before and/or after high‐temperature stress (32°C). In conclusion, the results showed, for the first time, that dietary supplementation with ~1% PAE can improve growth performance, stimulated the digestive enzymes, and enchanced antioxidant status as well as immune parameters and prevented high‐temperature stress of common carp.

Effects of dietary common juniper (Juniperus communis) essential oil on growth, immunity, antioxidant status, and disease resistance in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of common juniper (Juniperus communis) essential oil (JCEO) on growth, digestive enzymes, biochemical profile, immune and antioxidant system, and liver enzymes in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. 240 fish (10.63 ± 0.06 g) were fed for 60 days in 12 thanks (20 fish per tank) with experimental diets containing JCEO including: control or T1 (untreated), T2 (fed 0.5% JCEO), T3 (1% JCEO), T4 (2% JCEO). Results revealed an increase in final weight (FW) and weight gain (WG) in all treatments, with a significant difference with the control group (P < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) decreased, after addition of JCEO compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Amylase, protease and lipase activity levels increased in all groups (T2, T3 and T4 groups), which were significantly different from the control (P < 0.05). The T2 group had the highest total protein (TP) level in serum compared to the control, and all experimental treatments exhibited a significant difference with the control (P < 0.05). The activity of antioxidant enzymes in serum, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) increased compared to the control group, with the highest levels in the T4 group. Inclusion of JCEO to the diet significantly reduced the levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity in blood compared to the control (P < 0.05). The highest level of serum lysozyme activity and total immunoglobulin (total Ig) were observed in T3 group, which displayed a significant difference with the control (P < 0.05). Serum alternative complement activity (ACH50) increased in the supplemented fish compared to the control (P < 0.05). The fish survival increased after challenge with Yersinia ruckeri in JCEO-supplemented fish. In conclusion, JCEO at dietary level of 1% could improve the nutrient digestion and absorption and provide better growth, as well as reinforce the immune system in rainbow trout.

Effects of in ovo injection of the L-carnosine on physiological indexes of neonatal broiler chicken

The objective of the present investigation was to ascertain the impact of in ovo administration of L-carnosine on physiological indicators in neonatal broiler chickens. A total of 280 viable broiler eggs were allocated to 7 distinct groups: control, Sham in ovo injection of sterile water on d 7 of incubation. Groups 3 and 4 were subjected to in ovo injections of L-carnosine (25 and 50 µg) on d 7 of incubation. Group 5, functioning as a sham in ovo, received an injection of sterile water on d 18 of incubation. Groups 6 and 7 were in ovo injected with L-carnosine (25 and 50 µg) on d 18 of incubation. All eggs were subjected to incubation, and the hatching rate and body weight were measured post-hatch. Subsequently, blood samples were collected, and the levels of biochemical constituents in the serum were determined. Based on the outcomes, the administration of L-carnosine (50 µg) on d 7 of incubation led to a significant increase in post-hatch body weight compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The in ovo injection of L-carnosine (25 and 50 µg) on d 7 and 18 of incubation resulted in a significant decrease in the levels of serum glucose, triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transaminase (ALT) in the newly hatched chickens (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the in-ovo injection of L-carnosine (25 and 50 µg) on d 7 and 18 of incubation led to a significant increase in the levels of serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL), calcium, and total protein (TP) in the newly hatched chickens (P < 0.05). Nonetheless, L-carnosine did not have a significant effect on the levels of serum IgY and IgA in the newly hatched chickens (P > 0.05). These findings indicate that the in ovo administration of L-carnosine yielded favorable outcomes in neonatal broiler chickens.

Cytotoxicity and immunological impact of Trypanosoma sp. infection on blood parameters of wild African catfish, Clarias gariepinus

Fish trypanosomiasis is a common blood parasitic disease transmitted by aquatic invertebrates, such as leeches. This study aims to shed light on the cytotoxicity of Trypanosoma sp. on erythrocytes and its impacts on the innate immune response (serum lysozyme activity, nitric oxide production, phagocytic activity, serum total protein, and globulin) in wild African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. One hundred catfish were examined using blood smears stained with Giemsa and confirmed with PCR. The prevalence of infection was found to be 10% by microscope detection and 15% by PCR. The morphological identification of Trypanosoma as Trypanosoma mukasai was determined. Additionally, this study included previously undescribed features of Trypanosoma, such as the width of the anterior and posterior body, the length of the posterior pale region, and the number of folds. Various alterations in erythrocytes were observed, totaling 54.57%. Nuclear abnormalities, including fragmented nuclei, eccentric nuclei, and micronuclei, were also reported. Infected fish showed a reduction in serum total protein and globulin levels, while nitric oxide production, lysozyme activity, and phagocytic activity exhibited a significant increase compared to non-infected fish. We believe that our findings will contribute valuable data to the morphological and molecular identification of Trypanosoma sp. in African catfish, as well as their cytotoxic impact.

Homeostatic Modulation of CD4+ T Cell Subsets Using the Chinese Medicine Jianpi Qushi Heluo Formula During the Alleviation of Primary Membranous Nephropathy

ABSTRACT Background: Compelling evidence suggests that the immune system plays a key role in the development and progression of primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). The Jianpi Qushi Heluo Formula (JQHF) is an empirical and effective traditional Chinese medicine prescription used for the clinical treatment of pMN in China. However, it remains unclear whether JQHF treatment affects the peripheral immune system of patients with pMN. Methods: Twenty-five patients with pMN and 10 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. Patients with pMN were treated with JQHF for 6 months. Circulating CD4+ T cell subsets and associated chemokines were analyzed using flow cytometry among both HC and pMN before and after 6 months of JQHF treatment. Results: Patients with pMN treated with JQHF achieved 60% clinical remission and a significant reduction in 24-hour urinary protein excretion (24hUTP). Compared to HC, Th1 cells increased, Treg cells decreased, and Th1/Th2, Th1/Treg, and Th17/Treg cells increased in the pMN (P = 0.011, P = 0.035, P = 0.001, P = 0.026, P = 0.038, respectively). JQHF treatment significantly improved cellular immune imbalance in patients with pMN. Patients with pMN showed increased levels of peripheral blood C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 9 (CXCL9), CXCL10, and C-C motif ligand 20 (CCL20), but no significant difference was observed compared with HC. JQHF treatment significantly reduced CXCL10 levels (P = 0.0071). Moreover, 24hUTP was strongly and positively correlated with Th1 cell and CXCL10 levels (P = 0.0438 and P = 0.0211, respectively). Total serum protein levels were strongly and positively correlated with Tregs (P = 0.0816). Th1 cells also strongly and positively correlated with CXCL10 levels (P = 0.0012). Conclusion: Our findings suggest an imbalance in the immune differentiation of peripheral blood CD4+ T cells in patients with pMN. JQHF treatment had a pronounced effect on pMN, which may be mediated by the improvement of homeostatic modulation of CD4+ T cell subsets.

Assessment of the nutritional state of patients with chronic diffuse liver diseases

Chronic liver diseases present a serious problem of modern medicine. Quite often, patients with liver diseases suffer from a violation of the normal nutritional state. such as malnutrition against the background of deficiency or increased body weight, which can develop latently in the early stages of the liver pathology and lead to protein-energy malnutrition, the development of sarcopenia and its complications. Aim. Evaluation of the nutritional status of patients with chronic diffuse liver diseases using anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Materials and methods. There were examined 282 patients, men n=138(49%), women n=144(51%) with liver pathology, whom were divided into groups: 1 gr - with chronic hepatitis n=75 (27. 4%), 2 gr - with chronic fatty non-alcoholic liver disease n=96 (34. 2%), and 3 gr - with liver cirrhosis of various etiology n=111 (39. 4%). The average age is 54. 23. Anthropometric studies were carried out (chest circumference, waist circumference, circumference of the middle part of the shoulder, thigh circumference), body mass index was calculated. In all patients, we studied the indicators of protein metabolism - total protein and albumin levels in blood serum. Results. The study revealed the presenceof abdominal fat in all patients, characteristic of obesity sarcopenia and a decrease in protein metabolism: total protein and albumin in patients with liver cirrhosis. Conclusions. All patients have an android type of adipose tissue distribution and are at high risk of developing comorbid cardiovascular and endocrine dysfunction.

Predictors of central line-associated bloodstream infections in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy through implanted venous access ports: a retrospective, observational study.

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are sometimes superior to peripheral vascular access for chemotherapy. Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are an important complication of CVCs in chemotherapy. A retrospective, observational study was conducted to investigate patients with implanted venous access ports (PORTs) from July 2010 to June 2021 in a teaching hospital. General conditions of the PORTs, backgrounds, and characteristics of patients were compared between CLABSI cases and uninfected cases to identify predictors of CLABSI. A total of 566 patients with PORTs who underwent chemotherapy were enrolled in this study, with CLABSI identified in 41 patients, for a total of 436,597 catheter-days. The median duration of PORT use was 26 vs. 494 days (P<0.001) in the CLABSI and uninfected groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in tumor classification, staging, white blood cell (WBC) count, neutrophil proportion, lymphocyte proportion, albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and performance status between the CLABSI and uninfected groups. Multivariable analysis showed that antibiotic usage within the previous week, total protein (TP), and immediate PORT use were independently associated with CLABSI, and their odds ratios (ORs) were 4.89 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.67, 14.35], 1.95 (95% CI: 1.14, 3.53), and 3.13 (95% CI: 1.18, 8.30), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver-operating characteristic curve for TP was 0.63, and the cutoff value was 5.9 g/dL. PORT implantation should be avoided in patients who had antibiotic treatment episodes within 1 week, especially for those with low serum TP levels.

The potential synergistic action of quercetin and/or Pediococcus acidilactici on Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus performance

An 84-day experimental trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary quercetin, Pediococcus acidilactici or combined on growth performance, intestinal digestive enzymes, feed utilization, bacterial counts, intestinal histo-morphometric indices, hemato-biochemical indices, and antioxidant responses in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Four isonitrogenous (30.34 g kg−1 of crude protein) and isocaloric (19.21 MJ kg−1 gross energy) diets were formulated from practical ingredients. The first diet was the control diet. The other three formulated diets were supplemented with 5 g quercetin (quer) kg−1 diet or P. acidilacticiat 2 × 109 CFU kg− 1 (probiotic; pro), and their mixture 5 g quercetin kg−1 + 2 × 109P. acidilactici (CFU kg− 1) (pro-quer). A total number of 300 healthy fingerlings (Initial average weight 4.51 ± 0.01 g) were randomly allocated into four groups (25 fish for each group in triplicates). The results showed that the best values of growth, feed efficiency, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded in fish fed diet containing pro-quer. The activity of endogenous enzymes including; amylase, lipase, trypsin, and chymotrypsin was substantially boosted (P < 0.05) by supplemental diets with quercetin, probiotic, and pro-quer. Furthermore, fish fed diet supplemented with pro-quer had greater villi width, villi height, goblet cells, absorption area, muscularis mucosa, and muscularis. The highest total intestinal and gut bacterial counts were detected in fish fed diet supplemental with probiotic. Diets supplemented with quercetin, probiotic, and pro-quer substantially improved hematological markers including hematocrit (Htc), hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), and white blood cell (WBC) counts. The fish given a pro-quer diet had the lowest significant (P < 0.05) ALT value, whereas that fed quercetin had the lowest AST value. Serum total protein, globulin, and albumin levels were higher (P < 0.05) in fish fed diets containing quercetin, probiotic, and pro-quer compared to the control diet, with the greatest levels found in those fed diet supplemented with quercetin. However, supplementation of quercetin, probiotic, and pro-quer, lowered the levels of cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglyceride. The supplemental diets with quercetin, probiotic, and pro-quer improved the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) compared with the control diet. In conclusion, the synergetic effect between quercetin and probiotic ameliorated the growth, feed efficiency, intestinal digestive enzymes, intestinal histological morphometric, hemato-biochemical indices, and antioxidant responses of Nile tilapia.

Effects of Season, Productive State, Age and Agro-ecology on Blood Biochemical Characteristics of Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Natural Browsing Environment

Background: Blood biochemistry and reference intervals assist in distinguishing between healthy and productive camels as well as providing information for nutritional conditions, evaluation and monitoring when they are allowed to browse naturally; nevertheless, these intervals are frequently collected from animals of varying ages. The nutritional condition and biochemical markers of dromedary camels in pastoral systems in southern Ethiopia were investigated in this study, which took season, animal status, age and environmental variables into consideration. Methods: A total of 36 camels were divided into three groups based on their age ( greater than 8 years, 5-8 years, or less than 5 years) and productive state (milking, pregnant and young) in two environments (two herds in arid and semi-arid areas). Blood samples were collected from animals’ neck jugular veins, centrifuged and frozen for analysis. The samples were centrifuged (3000 rpm for 10 min) immediately after their arrival at the laboratory. Serum concentrations of glucose, protein, urea, creatinine, triglycerides and cholesterol were measured using spectrophotometry. Result: This study shows that glucose (91.33+7.30 mg/dl), total protein (7.17+0.15 mg/dl) and triglyceride (75.28+5.38 mg/dl) concentrations were significantly higher (P less than 0.05) during the rainy season, whereas urea (32.06+1.18 mg/l) and creatinine levels were significantly higher during the dry season. The study reveals increased glucose, total protein and triglyceride concentrations in camels during the rainy season, while urea and creatinine levels were higher during the dry season. Arid camels had lower serum concentrations of total protein and urea. Milking and pregnant camels had lower total serum protein, triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

Effects of different wheat bran fermentation sources on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, serum antioxidant capacity and fecal microbiota in growing pigs.

The present study aimed to evaluate the application of different wheat bran fermentation sources in growing pigs. A total of 320 pigs (43 ± 0.21 kg), were randomly allocated to 5 groups in a 21-d trial. The control group was fed a basal diet (CON) containing raw wheat bran, and the other four treatments were fed the diets in which the raw wheat bran in the basal diet was substituted with Aspergillus niger (WBA), Bacillus licheniformis (WBB), Candida utilis (WBC), and Lactobacillus plantarum (WBL) fermented wheat bran, respectively. The results showed that compared to the CON group, the crude fiber and pH values were decreased (p < 0.05), while the gross energy (GE), crude protein (CP), and lactic acid values were increased (p < 0.05) in all the wheat bran fermented by different strains. Compared with other treatments, feeding B. licheniformis fermented wheat bran had higher final weight, average daily gain, as well as lower feed-to-gain ratio. Compared with CON group, pigs fed with fermented wheat bran diets had higher dry matter, CP, and GE availability, serum total protein, albumin and superoxide dismutase levels, and fecal Lactobacillus counts, as well as lower malondialdehyde level and fecal Escherichia coli count. Collectively, our findings suggested that feeding fermented wheat bran, especially B. licheniformis fermented wheat bran, showed beneficial effects on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, serum antioxidant capacity, and the gut microbiota structure of growing pigs.

HEPATOPROTECTIVE ACTIVITY OF FRUIT AND LEAF EXTRACTS OF FICUS CARICA AND FICUS BENGHALENSIS IN EXPERIMENTAL RATS

Ficus plants have traditionally been used as potential remedies for treating various diseases. Hepatotoxicity is one of the severe threats to human health which must be adequately cured. The study was planned to investigate the hepato-protective potential of methanolic extracts of fruit and leaves of Ficus carica and Ficus benghalensis against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity in an experimental rat model. The study was planned using a randomized control design (RCD). The study included 6 groups of animals (n= 5 per group) having average body weight (230±20 g), out of which 5 groups were treated with CCl4 (15 µL kg-1 body weight), and the remaining one was left as healthy control. Four of the five CCl4-treated groups were administered individually with fruit and leaf extracts (25 mg kg-1 body weight) of F. carica and F. benghalensis, while the fifth was left as CCl4-treated control. The total serum bilirubin (TSB), total serum protein (TSP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels of the control group during the treatment period ranged from 0.54±0.16 to 0.59±0.15 mgdL-1, 8.56±0.73 to 8.66±0.75 gdL-1, 46.00±21.41 to 49.41±22.68 UL-1, 41.6±13.99 to 44.41±13.16 UL-1, and 139.80±28.72 to 145.62±28.82 UL-1, respectively. CCl4 administration significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased the TSB, ALT, AST, and ALP levels in the range of 1.48±0.30-2.30±0.19 mgdL-1, 147.6±34.22 to 233.81±14.94 UL-1, 118.8±15.88 to 167.8±16.4143 UL-1, and 213.8±21.46 to 260±26.664 UL-1, respectively. The elevated TSB, ALT, AST, and ALP levels were significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased after F. carica and F. benghalens extract treatment to 1.06±0.15-1.70±0.21 mgdL-1, 115.00±28.19-190.21±25.68 UL-1, 89.8±16.29-111.8±23.81 UL-1, and 195.38±42.29-218.4±35.02 UL-1 respectively. Moreover, TSP level was significantly decreased after CCl4 administration and improved after extract treatment. It was concluded that methanolic extract from the leaf and fruit of both F. benghalensis and F. carica protects against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Keywords: Hepatoprotective potential, Ficus carica, Ficus benghalensis, Hepatic damage, Experimental rat model

Effects of injecting L-Arginine on immune responses and intestinal structure of the hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀× Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂)

To study the effects of L-Arginine (Arg) on immune responses and intestinal structure in a hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀× Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂), intraperitoneal injection of different Arg doses (0, 50, 100, 200 mg per kg body weight of grouper) was administered once every seven days, repeating the process three times in the present study. A total of 216 groupers (initial weight of 349.42 ± 0.67 g) were randomly divided into four groups with three replicates, and each of the replicates comprised 18 fish. Serum was sampled at the seven, 14, and 21 days post-injection. The results showed that injection of Arg had a significant effect on serum albumin, immunoglobulin M (IgM), total protein (TP) and nitric oxide (NO) content, as well as nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and lysozyme activity (P < 0.05). With an increase of Arg dose, serum NO, TP, and albumin levels initially increased and subsequently decreased, and were significantly higher in fish injected with Arg at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg in comparison to the control group. On days seven and 14, the highest serum albumin, TP, and IgM levels were observed in the 100 mg/kg group. With an increase in injection time and frequency, the 50 mg/kg group showed the optimal immune status after the third injection. Based on the results of the intestinal digestive enzyme activity and morphology, the injection of Arg at 50 mg/kg was the most beneficial, followed by the 100 mg/kg dose. Injection of 200 mg/kg Arg, especially after three injections, had adverse effects on immune responses and intestinal structure. These findings indicated that the intraperitoneal injection of L-Arg at a certain concentration can enhance the immunity and intestinal morphology of groupers. Notably, the most significant benefits were observed after three consecutive injections of Arg at 50 mg/kg in this experiment.

Isolation, characterization, structural elucidation and in vivo hepatoprotective studies of phytoconstituents obtained from the fruits of &lt;i&gt;Cordia obliqua&lt;/i&gt; Willd

Purpose: To isolate, characterize, and investigate the hepatoprotective effect of phyto-constituents from fruits of Cordia obliqua Wild in paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats.&#x0D; Methods: Ethanol and aqueous extracts of C. obliqua fruits were screened for phytochemicals. The extracts were subjected to column chromatography and preparative thin-layer chromatography (TLC) to isolate four novel compounds. Compounds were characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), mass spectroscopy (MS), as well as 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The isolated compounds were assessed for acute toxicity, in vivo hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential (dose: 5 mg/kg) in paracetamol-induced (75 mg/kg) hepatotoxicity through oral route in Wistar rats.&#x0D; Results: Phytochemical analysis of ethanol (COE) indicated the presence of fatty acids, anthraquinones, glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, phenolics, triterpenes, and sterols. Compounds A, B, and C were identified from COE. Treatment at 50 mg/kg significantly reduced aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGTP), and total bilirubin (TB), as well as increased total protein and total alkalinity levels in serum compared to the positive control. Liver histo-architecture showed improvements compared to the positive control, indicating hepatic protection.&#x0D; Conclusion: The isolated compounds (A, B and C) from COE exhibit hepatoprotective effects attributed to flavonoids and phenolics with free radical scavenging properties. Further research is needed to identify key mechanisms responsible for hepatoprotective effects.

Application of Omalizumab Combined with Enteral Nutrition in Treating Severe Allergic Asthma

To investigate the influence of omalizumab combined with enteral nutrition in treating severe allergic asthma, 102 patients in our hospital from May 2020 to May 2023 were retrospectively included, followed by dividing into a control group and a study group. The control group received only budesonide formoterol, and the study group accepted budesonide formoterol, omazumab, and an oral enteral hypernutrient polymer. After therapy, the asthma control test score, mini-asthma quality of life questionnaire score, hemoglobin level, serum total protein level, serum total immunoglobulin E level, forced expiratory volume in one second, forced expiratory volume in one second predicted, CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ in the study group presented higher than the control group, while CD8+, fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide level, and percentage of eosinophils in blood were lower. No difference was observed in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P = 0.34). To sum up, enteral nutrition combined with omalizumab can effectively inhibit airway inflammation, improve lung function, and promote the quality of life of severe allergic asthma patients with high safety, which opens a new way of biologically targeting therapy for asthma.

Exploring the significance of interleukin-33/ST2 axis in minimal change disease

Minimal change disease (MCD), a common cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, has been postulated to exhibit an association with allergic conditions. Recent studies revealed the crucial role of interleukin (IL)-33 in type 2 innate immunity. We hypothesized that development of MCD involves an IL-33–related immune response. We examined 49 patients with biopsy-proven MCD, 6 healthy volunteers, and 29 patients in remission. In addition to clinical features, serum and urinary levels of IL-33 and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 protein (sST2), a secreted form of the receptor of IL-33, were analyzed. Although IL-33 was barely detectable in either MCD or control samples, sST2 levels at diagnosis were elevated in MCD patients. Serum sST2 levels of MCD patients were correlated with serum total protein level (r = − 0.36, p = 0.010) and serum creatinine level (r = 0.34, p = 0.016). Furthermore, the elevated sST2 levels were observed to decrease following remission. Immunofluorescence revealed IL-33 expression in the podocytes among MCD patients, with a significant increase compared with controls. In vitro, mouse podocyte cells incubated with serum from a MCD patient at disease onset showed increased IL-33 secretion. These results suggest an IL-33–related immune response plays a role in MCD.

Unraveling the interaction between lead and calcium in occupationally exposed males: an exploratory observation study.

The systemic illnesses associated with chronic lead exposure are partially explained by the interaction between lead and calcium metabolism. Lead exposure is posited to alter calcium levels either by altering calcium homeostasis markers or altering bone remodeling. The present study investigated the interaction between blood lead levels and calcium homeostasis markers and bone remodeling markers among lead-smelting plant workers. Adult male workers employed at the lead-smelting plant were clinically investigated as part of their regular occupational health assessment program. Additionally, control participants without occupational lead exposure, employed in administrative and white-collar jobs were invited to participate in the study. Sociodemographic and occupational details were collected by pre-standardized semi-structured questionnaires from all consenting participants, followed by clinical examination and blood collection. Blood lead levels were estimated using microwave-assisted acid digestion and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique. Serum calcium and total protein and alkaline phosphatase levels were estimated as per standard biochemical techniques. 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and osteocalcin were estimated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition to comparative analysis for comparing the two groups, independent linear regression models were explored to investigate the associations between serum calcium and blood lead and osteocalcin levels. A total of 189 lead-exposed men employed at the lead-smelting plant and 25 male control participants consented to participate. The two groups were similar in age, diet, and body mass index. Occupationally exposed individuals exhibited significantly lower serum calcium and higher bone remodeling markers (osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase) as compared to controls. However, the serum 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3 and calcitriol levels were not significantly different between the two groups. Lastly, the serum lead and osteocalcin were weakly but significantly associated with serum calcium levels after controlling for variations in total protein, diet, 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and alkaline phosphatase in the study participants. Current observations reinforce the adverse role of lead exposure on calcium metabolism. Although lead exposure is posited to affect calcium metabolism by multiple pathways, current study observations favor the bone remodeling pathway. The observations recommend periodic screening for calcium and bone health among lead-exposed adults.

Hepatoprotective effect of hydromethanol extract of Otostegia integrifolia benth leaves in isoniazid and rifampicin induced Swiss albino mice

IntroductionDrug-induced liver injury is the most common cause of acute liver failure. Off-Target effect “hepatotoxicity “frequently detected during clinical examination of patients on anti-Tb medication particularly isoniazid (INH), and rifampin (RMP). However, there is no any treatment option against isoniazid and rifampicin induced hepatotoxicity. It is, therefore, necessary to search for effective affordable and safe drugs from medicinal plants for the prevention of liver toxicity caused by isoniazid and rifampicin. The aim the current study is to evaluate hepatoprotective effect of hydro methanol extract from Otostegia integrifolia leaves in isoniazid and rifampicin-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. MethodsO. integrifolia leaves powder was macerated in hydromethanol and thirty Swiss albino mice 29.0–40.6 g were grouped in to five groups. Group I were given 20 ml/kg distilled water, group II were given 100 mg INH and 150 mg RIF per kg body weight. Group III, group IV, and group V were given 200 mg extract, 400 mg extract, and 100 mg of N-acetyl cysteine respectively per kg 1hr before induction with 100 mg INH plus 150 mg RIF per kg. The treatments were followed for 14 days. On the 15th day, all mice were anaesthetized with diethyl ether; blood samples were collected for the assessment liver enzyme and function test. ResultsGroup II mice's serum ALT, AST and total bilirubin levels were significantly increased and serum total protein and albumin levels were significantly decreased as compared with group I mice. The groups of mice treated with O. integrifolia at a dose of 400 mg/kg and N-acetyl cysteine AST, ALT and total bilirubin level were significantly decreased; and total protein and albumin levels were significantly (P < 0.05) increased as compared with group II. The liver index of the group IV showed decreased (P < 0.05) as compared to the group II. ConclusionEvidence from our study revealed that the hydromethanol extract of O. integrifolia has a hepatoprotective effect against isoniazid and rifampicin-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss Albino mice. This protective effect of O. integrifolia extract may be based on its metal ion reducing power, free radical scavenging activity, and anti-inflammatory activity and could be used as a potential therapeutic option.