Liver Function Parameters Research Articles

Hepatoprotective potentials of aqueous leaf and seed extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus on testosterone propionate induced prostatitis in Wistar rats.

This study evaluated the hepatoprotective potentials of aqueous leaf and seed extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus on testosterone propionate induced prostatitis in Wistar Rat. Male Wistar rats of 100- 125g and 100 in number were obtained from the Department of Pharmacology, University of Port Harcourt animal house and was grouped into 10 of 10 rats each. The various groups were fed and administered with various concentrations (100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, 300mg/kg and 200mg/kg combined extract) of the leaves and seeds extracts of A. heterophyllus. The hepatoprotective potentials was studied by evaluating the liver function parameters on the male Wistar rats by day 21, 42 and 63 of the experiment using standard laboratory methods. The results obtained showed significantly (p< 0.05) increased ALP levels (401.57±0.85) on administration of testosterone propionate in group 2 (induced not treated group) day 21, as against the normal control group (294.57±0.06), while group 5 (Rats induced with TP (4 mg/kg) and administered 200 mg/kg of aqueous extract of A. heterophyllus leaves) revealed minimal level of ALP 293.47±0.006 by day 63. Minimum values for AST 23.00±0.51 was seen in group 8 day 21) with maximum activity 76.82±0.09 seen in group 1 day 21, ALT minimum level 7.67±0.33 was observed in group 4 day 21, while maximum levels 38.41±0.51 was seen in group 2 day 21, Albumin minimum level 17.87±0.09 was seen in group 2 day 63, with maximum level 31.13±0.18 observed in group 8 day 63, while minimum Total Protein 26.31±0.84 was shown in group 2 day 63 and maximum 64.63±0.49 in group 8 day 42. Obtained values from groups 5, 6, 9 and 10 were shown to be significantly different when compared with the negative control in group 2 but not significantly different with control group 1 and 3, hence depicting a more stabilized and hepatoprotective system in the plant extract treated groups compared to the negative control (group 2) at day 21. However, group 5 was shown to have higher hepatoprotective potentials by day 42 followed by group 10.

COVID-19 in Pediatric Intensive Care Units in Poland, PAPITCO-19 Study (Polish Analysis of PICU Trends during COVID-19).

Children suffering from COVID-19 constitute about 10% of the entire population infected with the virus. In most of them, we observe asymptomatic or mild courses; however, about 1% of affected children require a stay in a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) due to the course of the disease becoming severely life-threatening. The risk of respiratory failure, as with adults, is associated with the coexistence of concomitant diseases. The aim of our study was to analyse patients admitted to PICUs due to the severe course of their SARS-CoV-2 infection. We studied epidemiological and laboratory parameters, as well as the endpoint (survival or death). A retrospective multi-centre study, the analysis covered all children with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 virus infection who were admitted to PICUs in the period from November 2020 to August 2021. We studied epidemiological and laboratory parameters, as well as the endpoint (survival or death). The study analysed 45 patients (0.075% of all children hospitalised in Poland due to COVID-19 at that time). Mortality calculated in the entire study group was 40% (n = 18). Statistically significant differences between the compared groups (survived and died) concerned the parameters of the respiratory system. Lung Injury Score and the Paediatric Sequential Organ Failure Assessment were used. A significant correlation between disease severity and the patient's prognosis was shown by the liver function parameter AST (p = 0.028). During the analysis of patients requiring mechanical ventilation and assuming survival as the primary outcome, a significantly higher oxygen index on the first day of hospitalisation, lower pSOFA scores and lower AST levels (p: 0.007; 0.043; 0.020; 0.005; 0.039, respectively) were found. As with adults, children with comorbidities are most frequently at risk of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Increasing symptoms of respiratory failure, the need for mechanical ventilation and persistently high values of aspartate aminotransferase are indicators of poor prognosis.

In Vivo and Network Pharmacological Studies of Natural Bear Bile Powder Against Hyperlipidemia

AbstractNatural bear bile powder (NBBP), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been clinically used to treat liver dysfunction, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Recently it has been proved that NBBP has a good effect on regulating lipid disorders. However, the active ingredients and the anti‐hyperlipidemic effects are unclear. The high‐fat diet (HFD) induced hyperlipidemic model rats were treated with NBBP for 4 weeks and were examined for, lipid profile, liver function parameters, hepatic antioxidant status and histopathology of liver, epididymal adipose tissues. The NBBP treatment effectively improved serum lipid levels and normalized antioxidant status. A total of 16 constituents of NBBP were charactered via UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐HRMS. We screened eight potentially active compounds and corresponded to 75 anti‐hyperlipidemic target proteins. PPI analysis showed that ALB, TNF, EGFE, PPARG, and PPARA are core proteins. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that NBBP might treat hyperlipidemia (HLP) by regulating a series of signaling pathways involving immune system, inflammatory response, and metabolism. Molecular docking revealed that gene had high affinities to NBBP compounds. In conclusion, UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐HRMS analysis, network pharmacology, and in vivo experiments in this study provided essential references for revealing the potential mechanism of NBBP in the prevention and treatment of HLP.

Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Effects of Fig Fruit Extract with Olive Oil and Date-Palm Fruit Extract on Hepatic Toxicity of Oral Subchronic Exposure to Some Nanoparticles in Wistar Rats

The aim is to study the possible protection of fig fruit extract with olive oil and date-palm fruit extract (FOD) as natural antioxidants in decreasing the subchronic toxicity hazards of SiO2NPs, Al2O3NPs, or ZnONPs in male rats treated for 75 days. We used 80 male Wistar rats distributed into eight groups according to the treatment. The FOD antioxidant treatments were used at their recommended antioxidant doses. All nanoparticles (100 mg/kg) were given orally and daily for 75 days. Compared with the control, the oral administration of different NPs alone led to dramatic oxidative stress, liver function parameters, histopathological, p53, and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-6). The FOD-NPs-treated groups recorded significantly reduced hepatotoxicity effects compared to those treated with NPs alone. In conclusion, the FOD supplementations to the rats ameliorate the NP’s hepatotoxicity.

The acute oral toxicity test of ethanol extract of salt-processed Psoraleae Fructus and its acute hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity risk assessment.

Psoraleae Fructus is a well-known Traditional Chinese Medicine which has long been used to warm and tonify the kidney and treat diseases such as osteoporosis and diarrhea. However, it may cause multiorgan injury, which limited its use. The aim of this study was to identify the components of ethanol extract of salt-processed Psoraleae Fructus (EEPF) and systematically investigate its acute oral toxicity and the mechanism underlying its acute hepatotoxicity. In this study, the UHPLC-HRMS analysis was carried out for components identification. Followed by acute oral toxicity test in Kunming mice, which received oral gavage of EEPF from 3.85 to 78.00g/kg. Body weight, organ indexes, biochemical analysis, morphology, histopathology, oxidative stress state, TUNEL, mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway were evaluated to study the EEPF-induced acute hepatotoxicity and its underlying mechanisms. The results showed that 107 compounds such as psoralen and isopsoralen were identified in EEPF. And the acute oral toxicity test demonstrated the LD50 of EEPF was 15.95g/kg in Kunming mice. The survival mice displayed non-significant difference in body weight compared with Control at the end of the observation period. And the organ indexes of heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney showed no significant difference. However, the morphological and histopathological changes of these organs in high-dose-groups mice indicated that the liver and kidney might be the main target toxic organs of EEPF, which showed hepatocyte degeneration with lipid droplets and protein cast in kidney. It could be confirmed by the significant increases of liver and kidney function parameters such as AST, ALT, LDH, BUN, and Crea. In addition, the oxidative stress markers, MDA in the liver and kidney was significantly increased while SOD, CAT, GSH-Px (only liver), and GSH were significantly decreased. Furthermore, EEPF increased the TUNEL-positive cells and the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1, ASC and GSDMD in liver with increased protein expression of IL-1β and IL-18. Notably, cell viability test showed that the specific inhibitor of Caspase-1 could reverse the Hep-G2 cell death induced by EEPF. To summarize, this study analyzed the 107 compounds of EEPF. The acute oral toxicity test demonstrated the LD50 value of EEPF was 15.95g/kg in Kunming mice and the liver and kidney might be the main target toxic organs of EEPF. It caused liver injury through oxidative stress and pyroptotic damage via NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway.

Effect of patient characteristics on the efficacy and safety of imeglimin monotherapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A post-hoc analysis of two randomized, placebo-controlled trials.

Substantial variability in demographic and clinical characteristics exists among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, which may impact treatment. This post-hoc analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of imeglimin 1,000 mg twice daily (BID) monotherapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients according to demographic and clinical characteristics. Data were pooled from two placebo-controlled, 24 week, randomized, double-blind studies in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Outcomes (least squares mean [LSM] change in HbA1c from baseline to week 24, and safety) were analyzed according to subgroups based on demographics, clinical characteristics, and comorbidities. The difference in LSM change in HbA1c from baseline to week 24 was statistically significant for imeglimin vs placebo in all patient subgroups analyzed (P < 0.05 each), including demographics (age, body mass index), clinical characteristics (duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease [CKD] stage, and prior medication use) and comorbidities (hypertension, dyslipidemia, risk of hepatic fibrosis and liver function parameter status). A statistically significant separation from placebo in HbA1c was observed at week 4 and maintained through week 24. No new safety concerns were identified with imeglimin in any patient subpopulations. The efficacy and safety of imeglimin was demonstrated across patient subgroups, irrespective of baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. Our findings confirm the efficacy and safety of imeglimin across a broad spectrum of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Effects of Aqueous Extract of Cumin Seed (Cuminum cyminum) on the Structure and Function of Albino Rat Kidneys Treated with Dibutyl Phthalate

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of Cuminum cyminum seed aqueous extract on the function and histological structure of rat kidney treated with dibutyl phthalate (DBP). Eighteen albino rats weighing 190-240g and aged 10-12 weeks were used for this study which went on for 28 days. The rats were divided into three groups (each with six animals): 1st group: control rats were given food and tap water, 2nd group was given DBP (420mg/Kg. B.W.) with tap water and diet, 3rd group were fed cumin plant orally at a daily dose of (200 mg/kg B.W.) and DBP (420mg/kg. B.W.) was given with drinking water and fed with diet daily. Kidney and liver function parameters were measured and histological structure of kidney was examined. Results showed that DBP significantly increased creatinine, urea as well as liver parameters AST and ALT, while decreased ALP level, destruction, hemorrhage and inflammation in kidney. Cumin decreased AST and ALT level but increased ALP level and elevated kidney hemorrhage which concluded that DBP may cause oxidative stress for rat liver and kidney. Despite hepatoprotective role of cumin, it interacts with DPB and increases bleeding in kidney.

Hypocalcemia on Admission Is a Predictor of Disease Progression in COVID-19 Patients with Cirrhosis: A Multicenter Study in Hungary.

Hypocalcemia is a common condition in liver cirrhosis and is associated with the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, there is a lack of data demonstrating the prognostic value of hypocalcemia in COVID-19 patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of hypocalcemia for COVID-19 severity, mortality and its associations with abnormal liver function parameters. We selected 451 COVID-19 patients in this retrospective study and compared the laboratory findings of 52 COVID-19 patients with cirrhosis to those of 399 COVID-19 patients without cirrhosis. Laboratory tests measuring albumin-corrected total serum calcium were performed on admission, and the levels were monitored during hospitalization. The total serum calcium levels were significantly lower in cirrhosis cases (2.16 mmol/L) compared to those without cirrhosis (2.32 mmol/L). Multivariate analysis showed that hypocalcemia in COVID-19 patients with cirrhosis was a significant predictor of in-hospital mortality, with an OR of 4.871 (p < 0.05; 95% CI 1.566-15.146). ROC analysis showed the AUC value of total serum calcium was 0.818 (95% CI 0.683-0.953, p < 0.05), with a sensitivity of 88.3% and a specificity of 75%. The total serum calcium levels showed a significant negative correlation with the Child-Turcette-Pugh score (r = -0.400, p < 0.05). Hypocalcemia on admission was a significant prognostic factor of disease progression in COVID-19 patients with cirrhosis.

Growth performance, liver and kidney functions, blood hormonal profile, and economic efficiency of broilers fed different levels of threonine supplementation during feed restriction

The objective of the existing investigation was to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of threonine amino acid at different levels during feed restriction on growth indices, liver and kidney function parameters, and some hormonal profiles along with economic indicators in broiler chickens. A total of 1,600 from 2 different breeds (800 Ross 308 and 800 Indian River) at 21-day-old age were incorporated. Chicks were randomly assigned into 2 main groups, control and feed-restricted (8 h/d), during the fourth week of age. Each main group was subdivided into 4 groups. The first group was fed a basal diet without adding extra threonine (100%), the second, third, and fourth groups were fed a basal diet with extra threonine levels of 110, 120, and 130%, respectively. Each subgroup consisted of 10 replicates of 10 birds. We noticed that the dietary inclusion of threonine at extra levels in the basal diets significantly enhanced final body weight, body weight gain, and better feed conversion ratio. This was mainly due to the enhanced levels of growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor (IGF1), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4). Moreover, the lowest feed cost per kilogram body weight gain and improved return parameters were reported in control and feed-restricted birds fed higher levels of threonine than other groups. Also, a significant increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and urea levels was observed in feed-restricted birds supplemented with 120 and 130% levels of threonine. Hence, we recommend supplementing threonine at levels of 120 and 130% in the diet of broilers to promote growth and profitability.

(397) Long-term Testosterone Therapy in Men with Functional Hypogonadism and Obesity Improves Surrogate Parameters of Liver Function in a Urological Registry Study

Abstract Introduction Hepatic steatosis is highly prevalent in patients with hypogonadism and obesity. Fatty liver is increasingly recognized as cardiovascular risk factor. The gold standard assessment – histological evaluation of liver biopsies – cannot be performed in routine clinical practice. However, the fatty liver index (FLI) can be calculated using the formula by Bedogni: FLI = (e 0.953*loge (triglycerides) + 0.139*BMI + 0.718*loge (ggt) + 0.053*waist circumference - 15.745) / (1 + e 0.953*loge (triglycerides) + 0.139*BMI + 0.718*loge (ggt) + 0.053*waist circumference - 15.745) * 100 (Bedogni G et al. BMC Gastroenterol 2006;6:33). A FLI &amp;lt;30 rules out and a FLI ≥60 rules in fatty liver. Objective to investigate effects of long-term testosterone therapy (TTh) up to 13 years on surrogate parameters of liver function in men with functional hypogonadism and obesity in comparison to an untreated control group. Methods In an ongoing registry study in men with hypogonadism (total testosterone ≤350 ng/mL and at least moderate symptoms on the Aging Males’ Symptoms scale, AMS) in a single urology office, 491 men had functional hypogonadism and obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). 292 men received testosterone undecanoate (TU) injections 1000 mg/12 weeks following an initial 6-week interval (T-group), 199 opted against TTh and served as controls (CTRL). Height was measured at baseline, weight, waist circumference, triglycerides and γ-GT were assessed at each visit and the fatty liver index (FLI) calculated. AST, ALT, and bilirubin were also measured at each visit. Mean absolute measures with standard deviations (SDs) are reported for a duration of 13 years. Results Mean (median) follow-up: T-group 10.1±3.1 (11), CTRL 9.4±3.3 (10) years. Baseline age was 59.5±6.0 (T-group) and 63.0±5.0 years (CTRL) (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Triglycerides decreased from 3.4±0.5 to 2.2±0.1 in the T-group and increased from 3.2±0.5 to 3.9±0.5 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). γ-GT (U/L) decreased from 42.9±22.8 to 20.5±6.4 in the T-group and increased from 35.5±11.6 to 61.7±5.9 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). AST (U/L) decreased from 38.4±13.3 to 20.8±1.9 in the T-group and increased from 28.6±9.0 to 54.1±11.9 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). ALT (U/L) decreased from 41.4±13.7 to 24.7±2.1 in the T-group and increased from 32.7±9.4 to 60.2±13.8 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). Bilirubin decreased from 0.53±0.27 to 0.18±0.05 mg/dL in the T-group and increased from 0.44±0.23 to 1.09±0.27 mg/dL in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). Waist circumference from 115.0±13.2 to 97.5±4.6 cm in the T-group and increased from 118.6±11.4 to 121.2±6.1 cm in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for all). BMI decreased from 36.8±3.6 to 28.3±2.1 kg/m2 in the T-group and increased from 33.9±3.3 to 34.9±2.2 kg/m2 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for all). FLI decreased from 95.1±4.6 to 61.3±11.2 in the T-group and increased from 94.1±4.4 to 98.0±1.3 in CTRL (p&amp;lt;0.0001 for both). Conclusions Long-term testosterone therapy in men with functional hypogonadism and obesity improved surrogate parameters of liver function indicating an improvement in hepatic steatosis. All measures deteriorated over time in untreated obese hypogonadal control patients. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Bayer AG, Berlin, Germany. Clarification Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study. Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Bayer AG.

Spectrum-effect relationship of total anthraquinone extract of Cassia seeds against fluorouracil-induced liver injury in mice

To investigate the spectrum-effect relationship between the total anthraquinone extract of Cassia seeds and fluorouracil (5-Fu)-induced liver injury in mice and identify the effective components in the extract. A mouse model of liver injury was established by intraperitoneal injection of 5-Fu, with bifendate as the positive control. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in the liver tissue were detected to investigate the effect of the total anthraquinone extract of Cassia seeds (0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 g/kg) on liver injury induced by 5-Fu. HPLC fingerprints of 10 batches of the total anthraquinone extracts were established to analyze the spectrum- effectiveness of the extract against 5- Fu- induced liver injury in mice and screen the effective components using the grey correlation method. The 5- Fu- treated mice showed significant differences in liver function parameters from the normal control mice (P < 0.05), suggesting successful modelling. Compared with those in the model group, serum ALT and AST activities were decreased, SOD and T- AOC activities significantly increased, and MPO level was significantly lowered in the mice treated with the total anthraquinone extract (all P < 0.05). HPLC fingerprints of the 31 components in the total anthraquinone extract of Cassia seeds showed good correlations with the potency index of 5-Fu-induced liver injury but with varying correlation strengths. The top 15 components with known correlations included aurantio-obtusina (peak 6), rhein (peak 11), emodin (peak 22), chrysophanol (peak 29) and physcion (peak 30). The effective components in the total anthraquinone extract of Cassia seeds, including aurantio-obtusina, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, and physcion, are coordinated to produce protective effects against 5-Fu-induced liver injury in mice.

Acute and sub-chronic toxicity study of green coffee extract (Coffea canephora L.) on liver function of wistar rats

Background: Biodiversity is the main asset in traditional medicine development in Indonesia. Robusta green coffee has been widely studied for its activity, such as anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-obesity, and as a weight loss agent. Many products of green coffee extract are available on the market, but its toxicity data is still limited. This encourages toxicity tests to prove its safety, especially in the liver, the main organ in xenobiotic metabolism. Objective: To obtain acute and sub-chronic toxicity data of green coffee extract. Method: Robusta green coffee extract was obtained by the maceration method using 96% ethanol. Acute and sub-chronic toxicity testing refers to the OECD 432 and 407 methods. Rats were treated with green coffee extract at various dosages using oral gavage (2000 and 5000 mg/kg BW for acute dose and 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg BW for sub-chronic toxicity test). In the acute toxicity study, green coffee extract was given once only. Observation was carried out for the first 24 hours until 14 days after, while treatment and observation in the sub-chronic toxicity test were conducted everyday for 28 days. Data collected in this study included number of deaths, physical condition, SGOT/SGPT level, gross morphology, and liver histopathology. Result: Green coffee extract had an LD50 cut-off of 2000 mg/kg BW which was categorised as a mild toxicity level. No liver function parameter changes were observed in acute and sub-chronic toxicity tests. Conclusion: Green coffee extract is safe and can be further developed in herbal dosage forms.

EVALUATION OF LIPID PROFILE AND LIVER FUNCTION PARAMETERS IN OBESE AND NON-OBESE HYPERTENSIVE INDIVIDUALS ATTENDED TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Objective: In this study, lipid profile parameters and liver function parameters were measured and correlated in hypertensive obese and non-obese patients who were attended a tertiary care teaching hospital.&#x0D; Methods: This study is a retrospective observational, cross-sectional study over the course of a year in a tertiary care hospital. All adult patients with hypertension, both obese and non-obese, are included in the study population. The study involved 150 participants in total, including obese and non-obese people (71 men and 79 women). Standard techniques were used to assess the serum levels of TG, TC, LDL, HDL, and liver enzymes such SGOT, SGPT, bilirubin, and ALP. Moreover, BMI was calculated for both study groups. The association between elevated lipid profile markers and liver enzyme abnormalities was assessed by correlation analysis.&#x0D; Results: Out of 150 samples size comprises 75 obese and 75 non-obese individuals, 71 males and 79 females were reported in the current study. Our study gives very good association between lipid profiles to almost all LFT and the highest is shown between HDL, LDL and VLDL to all LFT. There was a high significant difference was noticed between the obese and non-obese individuals in relation to bilirubin (D) concentration, SGOT and SGPT between the two groups P&lt;0.0001. The levels of albumin were lowered and the significant variations were noticed between the two groups. The mean values of cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides were very high in obese individuals than non-obese individuals and the HDL was lower in obese individuals.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study found that liver function variables and abnormal lipid profiles were highly prevalent in obese hypertension patients. In participants with dyslipidemia, increased liver enzymes were seen more frequently.

Adverse events after the transjugular intrahepatic portal shunt are linked to serum metabolomic changes following the procedure.

Background and Objective: Transjugular intrahepatic portal shunt (TIPS) insertion could promote weight gain and muscle and fat mass increase in patients with cirrhosis. However, few studies have focused on metabolic changes after TIPS. This study aims to explore metabolic changes after TIPS and potential biomarkers of adverse events. Methods: Peripheral and portal serum samples were collected before and after TIPS insertion. Untargeted metabolomics was performed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Spearman's correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between metabolites and clinical parameters. Metabolite set enrichment analysis was performed to explore enriched pathways. The predictive value of the metabolites was calculated by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. Results: Metabolites in the peripheral and portal serum significantly changed early after TIPS. Some lipid metabolites were significantly correlated with liver function parameters. Both elevated and depleted metabolites were mainly enriched in amino acid metabolism. Nine and 12 portal metabolites have moderate predictive value in post-TIPS liver function decline and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), separately (area under curve >0.7). Conclusion: Metabolites in the peripheral and portal veins significantly changed after TIPS. Some metabolic changes might be ascribed to liver function decline early after TIPS. Nine and 12 portal metabolites might be potential biomarkers in prediction of liver function decline and HE, separately.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress and liver function in early lactation and their relationship with the reproductive efficiency of multiparous grazing dairy cows in Argentina. A retrospective study.

This study aimed to analyze the possible relationship between days to conception and different oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers and liver functional parameters in multiparous dairy cows. Besides, a fast reliable method for the accurate measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was developed in several matrices. During lactation, the days to conception of 28 cows were determined for a retrospective study. According to this parameter, cows were divided into two groups: high and low days to conception (HDC and LDC, respectively). Blood, urine and liver biopsies were sampled 21days before the expected calving date, and 7 and 21days after calving. The method developed for MDA was validated according to international requirements. The lower limit of quantification was 0.25µmol/L for plasma and urine and 10.00µmol/L for liver tissue. No differences between groups were observed in the systemic concentration of non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyric acid and liver triacylglycerol content (P > 0.05). Cholesterol concentration was higher in the LDC than in the HDC group (P < 0.05). Plasma 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) concentration was lower in the LDC than in the HDC group on day 21 post-calving (P < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase activity was higher in the LDC than in the HDC group (P < 0.05). Particularly, in the liver, 3-NT and MDA concentrations were lower in the LDC than in the HDC group (P < 0.05). These results allow inferring that the amelioration of OS biomarkers in plasma and liver could be related to a better reproductive performance of dairy cows.

Effect of Antioxidants on oxidative damage, and hematological and psychological parameters in cement-exposed workers

Some studies suggest that exposure to cement dust can cause oxidative stress, and have adverse effects on liver function, and hematological and psychological parameters. This study aimed to assess the effect of antioxidant vitamin supplementation on indices of oxidative stress, biochemical indicators, and psychological factors among cement plant workers. A total of 80 subjects (workers and non-exposed office employees) were divided into two groups. The intervention group that took vitamin E (400 IU)+ C (500 mg) and the control group that took placebo, for 60 days. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured in plasma, and hematological parameters were also recorded before and after the intervention. A significant decrease in the mean level of MDA, SOD and CAT, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were detected. On the other hand, a significant increase in the level of TAC was observed in the workers, after the intervention. Depression and anxiety also decreased significantly after the intervention. Vitamin E and C were probably effective in reducing oxidative stress and improving mental health and liver function especially among the workers.

Cardio-hepatic syndrome in patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve edge-to-edge repair.

The impact of the cardio-hepatic syndrome (CHS) on outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) for relevant mitral regurgitation (MR) is unknown. The objectives of this study were three-fold: (I) to characterize the pattern of hepatic impairment, (II) to investigate the prognostic value of CHS, and (III) to evaluate the changes in hepatic function after M-TEER. Hepatic impairment was quantified by laboratory parameters of liver function. In accordance with existing literature, two types of CHS were distinguished: Ischemic type I CHS (elevation of both transaminases) and cholestatic type II CHS (elevation of two out of three parameters of hepatic cholestasis). The impact of CHS on two-year mortality was evaluated using a Cox model. The change in hepatic function after M-TEER was assessed by laboratory testing at follow-up. We analyzed 1083 patients who underwent M-TEER for relevant primary or secondary MR at four European centers between 2008 and 2019. Ischemic type I and cholestatic type II CHS were observed in 11.1% and 23.0% of patients, respectively. Predictors for two-year all-cause mortality differed by MR etiology. While in primary MR cholestatic type II CHS was independently associated with two-year mortality, ischemic CHS type I was an independent mortality predictor in SMR patients. At follow-up, patients with MR reduction ≤2+ (obtained in 90.7% of patients) presented with improved parameters of hepatic function (median reduction of 0.2mg/dl, 0.2U/l and 21U/l for bilirubin, ALT and GGT, respectively, p<0.01). CHS is frequently observed in patients undergoing M-TEER and significantly impairs two-year survival. Successful M-TEER may have beneficial effects on CHS.

Effect of Jinlida granule on glycolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with non alcoholic fatty liver disease

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Jinlida granule on glycolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods: A total of 132 T2DM patients with NAFLD were equally and randomly divided into study and control groups. Patients in the control group were treated with non-drug therapy including routine diet control, exercise, alcohol avoidance, and drug therapy (using blood glucose and lipid lowering drugs). The study group was treated with Jinlida granule in addition to other measures used in the control group. Blood glucose, blood lipid, and liver function parameters were compared after treatment. Nesfatin-1, oxidative stress, inflammatory factors, liver fat content, and degree of fibrosis were assessed. The efficacy and potential mechanism of Jinlida granule in the patients were assessed. Results: Blood glucose, lipid, and liver function parameters in the study group were lower than in the control group following treatment. Nesfatin-1, GSH-Px, and adiponectin levels were higher, while MDA, TNF-α, liver fat, LSM and CAP levels were lower than in the control group (p &lt; 0.05). The response rate of the study group was 96.97 %, which was higher than the 87.88 % in the control group (p &lt; 0.05). The incidence of adverse drug reactions in the two groups during treatment was comparable (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Jinlida granule exerts positive effect on T2DM patients with NAFLD. Thus, Jinlida granule has potentials for application as an adjuvant in the treatment of T2DM with NAFLD.

Evaluation of the Effects of Extracts of Laurus nobilis on some Biochemical Parameters of Wistar Rats

Laurus nobilis is one of the most popular species belonging to the lauraceae family and it has been reported to possess many physiological properties such as antimicrobial, antifungal and wound healing effects. In this study, effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Laurus nobilis on some oxidative stress markers and liver function parameters of female Wistar rats were investigated. Five rats were randomly assigned into each of groups 1-4, of which group one (1) served as control and received distilled water. Groups 2-4 were treated with 100mg/kg bw, 200mg/kg bw and 400mg/kg bw of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Laurus nobilis respectively, for a period of 14 days. The results obtained indicated that the superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities as well as, gluthathione reductase and peroxidase activities were not significantly affected. The malondialdehyde level did not change significantly after two weeks of extract administration. The extract caused no significant (P&lt;0.05) alteration in the enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), as well as serum concentrations of total protein (TP), albumin (ALB) and total bilirubin. This study have shown that extract of Laurus nobilis neither altered hepatic function parameters nor promoted toxic stress in the female Wistar rats.

Toxicological Assessment of Wistar Rats Fed with Feed Fortified with Processed Breadfruit

Background: The seed of breadfruit is a major food consumed in some parts of Nigeria. It has been identified as an important leguminous food that is highly rich in carbohydrates and protein with abundant minerals and vitamins and is known to contain important anti-nutrients. Aim: This study aims to assess the possible toxicological effect of feed fortified with cooked, parboiled, and grilled breadfruit on the liver and kidney function parameters of Wistar rats. Method: Kidney and liver function tests were carried out using standard diagnostic methods. Results: The results of the kidney function test carried out revealed that feed fortified with 30% cooked and parboiled breadfruit showed a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in the creatinine level while a significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in the Urea level was observed in all the groups fed with the processed breadfruit with respect to the normal control group. The liver function test carried out showed an increase (p&lt;0.05) in Alanine Transaminase (ALT) activity in the group fortified with 30% cooked breadfruit, a significant increase in Aspartate Transaminase (AST) activity (p&lt;0.05) in all fortified groups with an exception to the group fortified with 30% cooked breadfruit. A significant increase (p&lt;0.05) in Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was seen in the group fortified with 50% grilled breadfruit. Conclusion: The rise in the level of kidney function parameters and liver function enzymes in the blood of the rats fed with feeds fortified with processed breadfruit is an indication that prolonged consumption of breadfruit may have an adverse effect on the renal and hepatic function.