Mean Hematocrit Values Research Articles

Outcomes associated with absent blood product utilization in Jehovah's witness patients compared to the standard of care in cardiac surgery: A ten-year experience.

For Jehovah's Witness (JW) patients requiring cardiac surgery, various strategies such as preoperative use of erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs), intravenous iron (IVI), and non-pharmacologic interventions have emerged to prevent complications from blood loss given transfusion is not acceptable in this population. Retrospective case-control of cardiac surgeries performed by the same surgeon between 1/1/2011 and 8/30/2021. JW patients were matched to non-JW who received blood products and non-JW who did not receive blood products on a 1:2:2 basis. Patients were matched on procedure, age, gender, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons morbidity score. Eligible patients were aged >18years and had a sternotomy procedure. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes included mean hematocrit values perioperatively and thrombotic events. A total of 27 JW, 52 non-JW transfused, and 53 non-JW not transfused patients were included in the analysis. JW patients had significantly higher mean hematocrits at every time point when compared to non-JW transfused patients and at all time points except clinic and the last recorded operating room value when compared to non-JW not transfused patients. No significant differences in thrombotic rates were found between groups, however there was a numerically higher incidence in the JW population (JW: 7.4%; non-JW transfused: 0%; non-JW not transfused: 1.9%; p = .106). A blood conservation protocol in a JW population was associated with higher perioperative hematocrit values when compared to matched controls. Further prospective study is warranted before applying similar protocols to other populations given the possibility for an increased rate of venous thromboembolism.

Complete blood count changes in sudden sensorineural hearing loss caused by Streptococcus suis bacterial meningitis at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Hospital Denpasar from January 2019 – May 2023

Introduction: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is an emergency case that requires immediate and comprehensive management. This condition can be caused by Streptococcus suis bacterial meningitis. Complete blood counts (CBC) examinations are often carried out in SSNHL patients that caused by infection. Some CBC components can be clinical indicators of the severity and prognosis of SSNHL. Objective: To find out the differences in CBC among S. suis bacterial meningitis patients with SSNHL and S. suis bacterial meningitis patients with normal hearing at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Hospital Denpasar from January 2019 – May 2023. Methods: This study used an analytical research design using a retrospective case control method to compare CBC results (hematocrit, NLR, PLR, MLR, RDW and MPV) in 40 cases patients with SSNHL due to S. suis bacterial meningitis and 40 controls patients with S. suis bacterial meningitis patients with normal hearing. Result: In this study, it was found that there is no significant difference between case group compared to control group in terms of CBC results. The mean hematocrit value was 40.67 (± 4.45) in cases and 40.87 (± 4.08) in controls, with p-value 0.842. The mean MPV value was 9.82 (± 1.58) in cases and 9.33 (± 1.78) in controls, with p-value 0.200. The mean NLR value in the case group was 24.46, while in the control group it was 28.79, with p-value 0.124. The mean PLR value in the case group was 200.01, while in the control group it was 247.80, with p-value 0.126. The mean MLR value was 1.33 in cases and 1.19 in controls, with p-value 0.303. The mean RDW value was 12.98 in cases and 12.81 in controls, with p-value 0.950. Conclusion: From 40 people suffering SSNHL due to S. suis bacterial meningitis it was found that most of research subjects are men (75%) and the average age of subjects is 53 years. This study found that there were no significant differences between the results of mean hematocrit, NLR, PLR, MLR, RDW and MPV in patients with SSNHL due to S. suis bacterial meningitis compared to controls.

Effects of Gender on Hematologic Parameters in Kangal Shepherd Dogs

Kangal Shepherd Dogs are highly valuable working dogs unique to Turkey, known for their robustness in withstanding harsh climatic conditions and possessing advanced herd protection and management abilities due to their genetic characteristics. Haematological values serve as crucial indicators of the physiological and physiopathological parameters in animals. A complete blood cell count (CBC) emerges as a powerful diagnostic tool when appropriately assessed. Given the establishment of pure breeds, it is essential to acknowledge that breedspecific hematologic values may exhibit variations influenced by factors such as gender, lifestyle, age, and geographical location. Therefore, understanding the physiological distinctions between genders becomes paramount. This study aims to assess the impact of gender on the complete blood count in Kangal Shepherd Dogs. Upon comparing hematologic parameters between female and male Kangal Shepherd Dogs, a statistically significant difference was observed in the mean platelet volume (MPV) value, which was higher in females than males (p < 0.05). While the mean red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin (HGB), and haematocrit (HCT) values were higher in males, no statistically significant results were found (p > 0.05)

Oral Water Hydration May Impact Hematocrit and Blood Sugar Levels in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Patients of diabetes repeatedly need blood glucose measurement, which may be falsely high due to less water intake and poor hydration of the patients. Aims & Objectives: To determine the effect of water intake or hydration on hematocrit and blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes mellitus. Place and Duration of Study: Pathology Department and Diabetic Center of Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan from January 2023 to July 2023. Material & Methods: It was a cross sectional study conducted in total 75 Type-1 & Type-2 diabetes patients using convenient sampling technique. 5 ml blood samples were drawn before and 20 minutes after oral hydration with 500 ml of oral water in all these patients to determine the effect on hematocrit and blood sugar levels. The data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 23. Pre and post observations were compared using paired t-test. p-value<0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: The mean value for age and BSR (before and after) of study subjects was 46±11 years, 200±97 mg/dl, and 199±94 mg/dl (p=0.8) respectively. While mean value of HCT before hydration was 39±5.8% and after hydration was 38±6.4% (p=0.006). Conclusion: Oral water hydration impacted mean hematocrit values in diabetic patients, significantly lowering them whereas their mean BSR values remained unaffected.

The effect of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and other biochemical parameters on mortality in cancer patients admitted to the emergency department

Aims: To investigate the effectiveness of the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and other biochemical parameters in predicting mortality in oncology patients with cancer admitted to the emergency department. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational, single-center study. The study period included a two-year period from January 2014 to December 2015. Demographic data, cancer history and blood tests, emergency department diagnoses, blood parameters evaluated in the emergency department, discharge, and mortality status of the patients were recorded in the data form. The APACHE 2 and SOFA scores of all patients were also calculated. Patients whose data could not be reached were excluded from the study. p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 180 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the survivor group was 66.4±10.752 years, while the mean age of the non-survivor group was 65.18±13 years. The mean neutrophil/lymphocyte (NLR) ratio of the non-survivor group was 1.0288±11.3, while the NLR of the survivor group was 4.400±3.563. (p<0.05) The mean lactate ratio of the non-survivor group was 2.60±3.384, while the mean lactate ratio of the survivor group was 1.36±1. 090. (p<0.05) When survivor and non-survivor patient groups were compared, a statistically significant difference was observed in mean white blood cell count, neutrophil count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) values. (p<0.05) Conclusion: According to the results of this study, NLR, elevated white blood cell and neutrophil values, decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit, and elevated BUN and lactate levels seem to be predictors of mortality during emergency admissions in cancer patients.

Chronic exposure to high altitude and the presence of coronary ectasia in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction.

To evaluate the association between chronic exposure to high altitude and the presence of coronary ectasia (CE) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated in a highly specialized cardiovascular reference hospital in Peru. Retrospective matched case-control study. The cases were patients with CE and controls without CE. The relationship between CE and chronic exposure to high altitude was evaluated considering intervening variables such as arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, and hematocrit values. Patients with chronic inflammatory pathologies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and previous revascularization were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to obtain the OR value and their respective confidence intervals. Eighteen cases and 18 controls were studied, most of them were men with an average age of 65 years. Thirty-six percent of the population came from high altitude; in this group 76.9% had coronary ectasia of the infarct-related artery. The mean hematocrit value was slightly higher in the high-altitude native (46 ± 7% versus 42 ± 5%, p=0.094). Multivariate conditional logistic regression did not find a significant relationship between exposure to high altitude and the risk of presenting CE (OR:6.03, IC95%: 0.30-118, p=0.236). In patients with STEMI, we found no association between chronic exposure to high altitude and coronary ectasia.

Hematological profile of healthy Thoroughbred foals from birth to one month of age in Trinidad, West Indies.

This study aimed to develop a sound database for the hematological reference intervals of thoroughbred foals in Trinidad, West Indies from birth to 1 month of age. 89 foals. Whole blood samples were taken from 89 foals throughout Trinidad at approximately 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month of age. These foals were examined to be classified as healthy or free from disease. Complete blood count (CBC), microscopic analysis of blood smears, and conventional PCR for Theileria equi and Babesia caballi were performed. Of the 89 foals, 67 were deemed healthy and suitable for establishing reference intervals. Foals in this study had lower mean hemoglobin and hematocrit values for all 3 times of sampling when compared to their North American counterparts. Age had a significant effect on hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, and platelet counts of the foals from birth to 1 month of age. Variations in reference intervals can occur due to differences in demographic, physiological, and environmental factors such as age, gender, breed, and geographical location. Given the changes in the hematological values over time, this study provides clinicians with valuable information that can be used to monitor the health status of newborn foals and detect disease conditions.

Clinical Evaluation of the Eurosets Trilly Oxygenator During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in a Pediatric Population.

The equipment selected for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in pediatric cardiac surgery critically influences the safety, efficiency, efficacy and pathophysiological impact in perioperative use and the post-operative outcome. In this report, we present a single-center retrospective analysis of the clinical efficacy, efficiency and safety of the Trilly oxygenator (Eurosets Srl, Medolla, MO, Italy), which has an integrated arterial filter. It has a blood flow capacity of 500 to 3500ml/min, an AAMI index of 4.000ml / min, and a static fill prime (oxygenating module + heat exchanger) of 130 ml. We used this device on 42 pediatric patients who underwent repair of various congenital heart defects with cardiopulmonary bypass. Pre- and intraoperative patient data were collected for the evaluation of gas transfer and metabolic parameters in relation to blood flow, temperature and hematologic profiles. The mean age of the patients was 8.07 ± 2.9 years. Eight patients had cyanotic heart disease, 7 had chromosomal abnormalities and 9 had previously undergone cardiac surgery. The STAT Mortality Category Score was distributed as follows: Cat. 1 (37.5%), Cat. 2 (35%), Cat. 3 (5%), Cat. 4 (22.5%), Cat. 5 (0%). The mean bodyweight was 29.03 ± 8.25 kg and the blood flow rate was 2664.88 ± 508.43 ml / min. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 95±51.4 min and the cross-clamp time was 37±34.6 min. The mean gas transfer values were as follows: partial pressure of oxygen, post oxygenator, 224.7±28 mmHg; partial pressure of carbon dioxide, post oxygenator, 42±4 mmHg; oxygen delivery 356.9± 88.8 ml/min/m2; carbon dioxide transfer, 52.81± 1.98 mmHg, mixed venous saturation 77.78 %; and mean hematocrit value 29.0±4 %. The Trilly oxygenator was effective in terms of oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide removal, and heat exchange in a pediatric population undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. This retrospective analysis showed that the Trilly is both safe and effective in clinical practice without iatrogenic problems.

Hematological, Biochemical and Blood Gas Findings in a Calf with Cerebral Theileriosis

This case report aims to present the clinical and laboratory findings of cerebral theileriosis in a 1-month-old female Holstein calf. In the clinical examination of the calf, blindness, ataxia, opistotonus, nystagmus and convulsions, anemia and petechial hemorrhage foci in the conjunctiva, upper palate, gingiva were observed, and asymmetrical enlargement of the left prescapular lymph node was detected. As a result of hematological examinations, it was determined that lymphocyte count, erythrocyte count, hemoglobin amount, mean erythrocyte diameter (MCV) and hematocrit values were lower than normal, but mean erythrocyte hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and platelet values were lower than normal in the calf. higher than normal values. In terms of biochemical values, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), direct and indirect bilirubin, triglyceride and creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) values were found to be higher than normal values. In blood gas analysis, blood pH and glucose values were lower than normal values, and lactate concentration was higher than reference values.The parameters in this case report are reported to be helpful in the differential diagnosis of similar cases that veterinarians in the field may encounter.

Effects of African Swine Fever infection on blood of Pigs from Selected Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Indirect Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) was carried out to detect antibodies against African Swine Fever (ASF) virus and haematological investigations were also carried out on blood samples collected from 299 pigs from selected Local Government Areas in Kaduna State Nigeria. The serum samples from 10 pigs (3.34%) were positive by ELISA haematological investigations consisted of packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC). The mean PCV, RBC and WBC values of pigs negative for ASF were 34.84+9.611, 6.299+6.093 9.953+5.565/ml respectively while the values of pigs positive for ASF were 32.30+6.464, 5.160+1.182 and 9.740+4.37 /ml respectively. It was observed that the mean PCV values of the sero-positive pigs and seronegative pigs were not significantly different from the normal value, it was also observed that the sero-positive pigs had higher mean WBC count than the normal and also mean seronegative pigs.. In conclusion, African Swine Fever infection caused increase in the mean values of PCV, RBC and WBC count.

Effects of African Swine Fever infection on blood of pigs from selected local government areas in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

African Swine Fever (ASF) is a notifiable highly infectious lethal haemorrhagic disease in domestic pigs. Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). was carried out to detect antibodies against ASF virus and haematological investigations were also carried out on blood samples collected from 127 pigs from various piggeries and slaughter houses from selected Local Government Areas in Nassarawa State Nigeria. 1(0.79%) pig was positive to ELISA haematological investigations consisting of packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), and white blood cell count (WBC). The mean PCV, RBC and WBC values of pigs sero-negative for ASF were 32.64+6.509, 12.97+ 3.653 and 10.30+5.397/ml respectively while the values of pig sero-positive for ASF was 32.80+ 0.00 , 13.00+0.00 and 20.60+0.00/ml respectively. It was observed that the PCV values (32.800+ 0.00) of the sero-positive pig and sero-negative pigs (32.64+6.509) were not significantly different from the normal value; it was also observed that the sero-positive pig had higher mean WBC count than the normal and also mean sero-negative pigs. There was increase in the mean values of PCV, RBC and WBC count caused by African Swine Fever infection due to response to the disease infection.

Effect of African Swine Fever Infection on Some Blood Parameters in Pigs from Selected Local Government Areas in Benue State, Nigeria

African swine fever (ASF) is a notifiable highly infectious lethal haemorrhagic diseasein domestic pigs. Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). was carried out to detect antibodies against ASF virus and haematological investigations were also carried out on blood samples collected from one hundred and eighty seven pigs from various piggries and slaughter houses from selected Local Government Areas in Benue State Nigeria. Thirteen (6.95%) pigs were . positive to ELISA haematological investigations consisting of packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), and white blood cell count (WBC). The mean PCV, RBC and WBC values of pigs negative for ASF were 32.38 +10.94, 7.49 +5.32, 8.38 +10.64/ml. respectively while the values of pigs positive for ASF were 35.50 +11.35, 10.03 +4.05 and 9.10 +-6.-25/ml. respectively. It was observed that the mean PCV values (35.50+11.35) of the sero-positive pigs and sero-negative pigs (32.38+10.94) were not significantly different from the normal value; it was also observed that the sero-positive pigs had higher mean WBC count than the normal and also mean seronegative pigs. In conclusion, ASF infection caused increase in the mean values of PCV, RBC and WBC counts.

Effect of Tick-Borne Haemoparasitic Diseases on Haematological Parameters of Small Ruminants Managed Under Semi-intensive System in Wukari Town Taraba State Nigeria

This study was conducted to determine the effect of tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases on haematological parameters of small ruminants managed under semi-intensive system in Wukari town Taraba State, Nigeria. A total of 100 blood samples were collected from sheep (n = 50) and goats (n = 50) from February to March, 2023. Giemsa stained blood smears were prepared and examined under light microscope, to screen for haemo-parasites. Packed cell volume (PCV) was determined by microhaematocrit centrifugation technique while haemoglobin (Hb) concentration was determined by Sahli’s method. The total white blood cell (WBC) was estimated with Neubauer haemocytometer. The results showed 13% overall prevalence of tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases. Prevalence based on specie of animal was higher in goats (16%) than in sheep (10%). Prevalence was observed higher in adults than the young, and there was significant difference between age and prevalence of the haemo-parasites. Sex-wise, prevalence of haemo parasites in both goats and sheep was significantly higher in females than males. Anaplasma infection was more prevalent than Babesia infection in both species of the animals examined. The mean values of PCV, Hb concentration of infected sheep were significantly (P<0.05) lower than the uninfected sheep. Similarly, the mean values of PCV and Hb concentration were significantly (p<0.05) lower in infected goats. This study has confirmed that tick-borne haemo-parasitic diseases cause anaemia in infected goats and sheep kept in the study area. We recommend tick control using suitable acaricides, periodic screening and treatment of small ruminants in the study area.

PMON266 The Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Cardiovascular Safety and Other Adverse Effects – a Randomised Double Blinded Placebo Controlled Trial (STRIDE Study)

Abstract Background Concerns about testosterone treatment and its safety ranging from cardiovascular risk to prostate cancer risk to polycythaemia and obstructive sleep apnoea has always been controversial especially cardiovascular safety. To tip the balance, there were 3 trials that were published in the recent past which induced more controversy by demonstrating that testosterone therapy increased cardiovascular disease and mortality. Our RCT evaluates the safety of testosterone Undecanoate in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypogonadism. Research design and methods: This is a randomised double blinded placebo-controlled add-on trial of testosterone undecanoate (Nebido®) administered every 12 weeks in 65 hypogonadal men with poorly-controlled type 2 diabetes. Phase 1 patients were randomly assigned to either treatment or placebo arm for 6 months of TRT. Phase 2 was an open-labelled phase for 6 months and patients on placebo moved on to the treatment group wherein patients in the treatment group continued. Adverse events, hospitalizations and mortality were recorded and biochemical parameters were measured at baseline and every three months for a year. Results Mean age of the cohort was 59(42-77)years. Baseline characteristics were comparable between active/placebo groups apart from cardiovascular disease and hypertension which were significantly higher in the active group compared to placebo group (n=28 vs n=18, p=0.05), (n=23 vs n=13, p=0.008) respectively. There was no mortality during the period of the trial. There were no cardiovascular adverse effects in either of the phases of the trial in the active arm. One patient had TIA in the placebo arm. There were 3 prostrate related hospitalisations - 2 in those receiving TRT. One gentleman on TRT was diagnosed to have unmasked prostate cancer in the phase-2 of the trial. There was non-significant increase in PSA between active and placebo group at 6 months (p=0.756). There was no significant increase in mean PSA between baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12months post treatment in active group. There was no significant increase in number of patients with >0.75 µg/l PSA rise between active and placebo group at 6 months (p=0.902). An increase in mean haematocrit value at 6 months post treatment with testosterone (Active group- pre-treatment 00.42±0.033 l/l, post treatment 0.435±0.024 l/l Vs Placebo group – pre-treatment 0.42±0.027 l/l, post treatment 0.46±0.034 l/l, p=0.000) was noted. Similar rise was seen in mean RBC and haemoglobin levels (p=0.000, p=0.001 respectively). Such increase in haematocrit and haemoglobin was observed to persist at 12 months in the active arm of the trial. However, no participant had haematocrit value of more than 0.54l/l in both first and second phase of the trial. Conclusions Results from our study demonstrates that testosterone replacement therapy in physiological dose was not associated with any serious adverse effects. However, a close monitoring of adverse events is highly advisable. Presentation: Monday, June 13, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Mean Hematocrit Values, Disease Severity, and Discharge Status of Undernourished Versus Well-Nourished Children with Dengue Infection in a Tertiary Government Hospital

Background: Studies comparing hematocrit values, disease severity, and discharge status between well-nourished and undernourished pediatric dengue patients are limited. Objective: This study compared the mean hematocrit values, disease severity and discharge status of undernourished vs. well-nourished pediatric dengue patients admitted in a tertiary government hospital. Methodology: A retrospective cohort study involving 114 pediatric dengue patients, with comparison groups of well-nourished and undernourished children matched according to age, phase of illness and sex was done. Main outcomes measured were mean hematocrit values, disease severity and discharge status. Results: There was a significantly lower mean pre-resuscitation hematocrit in the wasted (M=39.67%, SD=3.78) compared to the well-nourished group (M=43.68%, SD=4.72), p=0.006, among children >6 to 12 years old in the febrile phase. There were no significant differences in disease severity and discharge status between wasted and well-nourished children. In those >2 to 6 years old in the febrile phase, the severely wasted had significantly higher pre-resuscitation hematocrit (M=43.28%, SD=4.77) compared to well-nourished children (M=39.11%, SD=5.34), p=0.041. More severe dengue, worse discharge status and an earlier time to demise was seen among severely wasted children. Conclusion: Wasted participants had significantly lower mean hematocrit values with no difference in disease severity and discharge status when compared to well-nourished participants. Severely wasted children had significantly higher hematocrit values, severe dengue, and worse discharge status.

Incidence of Bovine Trypanosomosis and the Distribution of Vector in Chora District of Buno Bedele Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Bovine Trypanosomosis is one of the most parsimoniously problematic diseases in influencing mammals like cattle and it is a grave haemoprotozoan disease triggered by different species of unicellular eurykaryotic parasite of the genus trypanosome. This study was conducted to assess the incidence of Bovine Trypanosomosis, and density of vector distribution as well as the influence of its associated risk factors on cattle reared in Chora district of Buno Bedele Zone. A Blood sample was collected from a total of 401 cattle of age ranges from 1 to 6 years. The presence of parasites from sampled blood was examined using a method of Buffy Coat Technique and a technique of Giemsa-stained thin blood films was used to identify the existing trypanosome species in the study area. The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of collected blood samples was determined using haematocrit. A total of 50 traps were deployed to study the entomological survey. In general, 2.99 % of the studied cattle were infected with Trypanosomosis and the T.Vivax (58.33%) was the dominant species of trypanosomosis and followed by T. congulense (41.67%) in the study area. Statistically significant differences (P<0.05) were observed due to associated risk factors viz. Body Condition and age of cattle, whereas sampling sites and sex were not significantly affect the prevalence of Bovine Trypanosomosis. The mean PCV value of Parasitaemic and Aparasitaemic animals were 21.37 ± 0.19 and 27.89 ± 0.16, respectively and they were statistically different at (P< 0.05). Overall of 0.80 flies per trap per day was recorded from the study area and among the caught flies of Glossina species, 10%, 54% and 36% of them were, G.tachinoides, G.pallidipes and G.fuscipes, respectively. Therefore, the veterinarian’s has to continue providing the appropriate medication/treatment for the infected animals per appropriate recommendation and Bedele NTTICC has to take more focus to control the density and distribution of tsetse flies as well as biting flies for the transmission of high incidence of T. Vivax through mechanical ways of transmission of the disease. Keywords: Cattle, Incidence, Prevalence, T. Vivax, T. Congulense DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/12-17-03 Publication date: September 30 th 2022

Farmer-led protected zero-grazed dairy cattle initiative in tsetse-infested areas of Southeast Uganda

A farmer-led protected zero-grazed dairy cattle initiative, involving pyrethroid treated netting around zero-grazing cowsheds, was implemented over a four-year period in tsetse-infested areas of Southeast Uganda. The pyrethroid treated netting was intended to prevent dairy cattle against tsetse bites and consequently transmission of trypanosomosis, while boosting milk production as an economic venture. A longitudinal study was conducted in six districts, including Budaka, Busia, Iganga, Manafwa, Mayuge and Tororo, during which a total of 184 protected zero-grazing units holding 289 dairy cattle were visited five times. The prevalence of trypanosomosis, mortality, mean packed cell volume (PCV), status of netting, spraying practices, and pasture and legume feed status, cowshed hygiene status, and milk yield were monitored. The findings revealed low prevalence of trypanosomosis among dairy cattle (1.0-5.5%), due to Trypanosoma brucei (0.0-0.4%), Trypanosoma congolense (0.0-0.7%) and Trypanosoma vivax (0.4-3.4%) infections. Only 25 adult cattle and 40 calves were reported dead. Dairy cattle had good health, given high mean PCV values (27.7 - 30.6). 99.2% and 100.0% of the zero-grazing units had lost netting by visit IV and V, respectively. By the second to the fourth year, prevention of dairy cattle from tsetse or tick bites hugely relied on spraying because all zero-grazing units had lost netting. Dual tsetse and tick control was practised by 66.9% of the 184 zero-grazing units, while only 33.1% of the units applied tick-selective control. Correct spraying intervals were observed by 57.8% of the zero-grazing units. Most zero-grazing units (range 67.9-97.5%) had sufficient pasture, while few units (range 17.9-34.8%) had sufficient legumes. Poorest cowshed hygiene was observed in zero-grazing units in Budaka district (93.1%), followed by Busia district (33.3%), Iganga district (31.1%), Mayuge district (12.1%), Tororo district (10.0%) and Manafwa district (6.3%).The best average milk yield per cow per day was registered in Iganga district (6.2 L-8.7 L), followed by Mayuge district (4.5 L- 8.2 L), Manafwa district (4.5 L-6.2 L), Busia district (4.0 L-6.3 L), Tororo district (3.3 L-6.7 L), and Budaka district (3.7 L-6.0 L). Overall average milk yield per cow per day of 5.0 L to 6.4 L across visits with a minimum of 0.5 L and maximum of 19.0 L per cow per day were achieved. In conclusion, pyrethroid treated netting around zero-grazing units supplemented with spraying of cattle effectively protected dairy cattle against trypanosomosis and maintained their good health. However, farmers’ observation indicated that as netting became older, it became more fragile. Larger nets of 1.5 m high had a longer duration of 6 to 8 months than smaller nets of 1.0 m high (shorter duration of 3 to 4 months). Replacement of netting for all zero-grazing units was desirable after the first year of installation, however, farmers could not afford the cost of 100,000 Uganda shillings (approx. USD 30) per zero-grazing unit.

Nephrotoxicity evaluation and proteomic analysis in kidneys of rats exposed to thioacetamide

Thioacetamide (TAA) was administered orally at 0, 10, and 30 mg/kg body weight (BW) daily to Sprague–Dawley rats aged 6–7 weeks for 28 consecutive days. Nephrotoxicity and proteomics were evaluated in the kidneys of rats exposed to TAA. The BW decreased, however, the relative kidneys weight increased. No significant histopathologic abnormalities were found in the kidneys. The numbers of monocytes and platelets were significantly increased. However, the mean corpuscular volume and hematocrit values were decreased significantly in rats exposed to 30 mg/kg BW TAA. The expression levels of Kim-1 and NGAL were increased 4 to 5-fold in the kidneys, resulting in significant nephrotoxicity. Proteomic analysis was conducted and a total of 5221 proteins spots were resolved. Of these, 3 and 21 protein spots were up- and downregulated, respectively. The validation of seven proteins was performed by Western blot analysis. The expression level of ASAP2 was significantly upregulated, whereas RGS14, MAP7Dl, IL-3Rα, Tmod1, NQO2, and MUP were reduced. Sixteen isoforms of MUP were found by the 2DE immunoblot assay and were significantly downregulated with increasing exposure to TAA. MUP isoforms were compared in the liver, kidneys, and urine of untreated rats and a total of 43 isoforms were found.

Assessment of Fish Health: Seasonal Variations in Blood Parameters of the Widely Spread Mediterranean Scorpaenid Species, Scorpaena porcus

The measurement of haematological and biochemical parameters is essential for monitoring the health status of wild fish. More specifically, blood parameters provide crucial information on the physiological changes that occur in fish in response to various fluctuations in their environment. This study presents reference ranges and seasonal variations for 15 blood parameters of the black scorpionfish, Scorpaena porcus, as a species of high value for ecosystem monitoring in the Mediterranean. The mean haematocrit (HCT) values differed significantly between seasons, with the highest value recorded in winter. In addition, six plasma parameters varied significantly during the year. Cholesterol (CHOL), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations were notably higher during the spring/summer period and at their lowest levels in autumn/winter. On the contrary, levels of glucose (GLU) were highest during autumn and lowest during the spring season. The post hoc Tukey test revealed that there were significant differences in HCT values for winter vs. spring, in CHOL for spring vs. all other seasons, in NEFA for summer vs. autumn and summer vs. spring, in GLU for spring vs. summer, in AST for autumn vs. spring, in ALP for winter vs. all other seasons and in SOD for summer vs. all other seasons (p < 0.05 in all cases). A total of nine blood parameters showed a significant relationship with fish size throughout different seasons. Our results suggest that monitoring blood parameters may serve as a useful biomarker, and we provide a reliable basis for the future monitoring of the health status of the investigated S. porcus. Considering significant seasonal variations, the use of season-specific reference ranges is recommended for this scorpaenid species.

Red blood cell transfusion in preterm infants with very low birth weight and/or gestational age less than 32 weeks

Objective: To evaluate the transfusion rate plus clinical and laboratory profile of very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants and/or gestational age less than 32 weeks after transfusion of red blood cells (RBC) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Regional Hospital of Sao Jose (HRSJ), and describe neonatal pathologies and clinical evolution of these patients. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional observational study conducted at HRSJ. VLBW preterm infants and/or gestational age less than 32 weeks, born between January 1st, 2017 and June 30th, 2019, were included, resulting in a final sample of 117 patients. The variables were described in absolute numbers and proportions according to the transfusion. The study followed the applicable ethical criteria, being approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the University of the South of Santa Catarina. Results: In the NICU of HRSJ, of the 117 preterm infants, 92.3% received transfusions, with the mean weight and gestational age at birth of this group being 1192.08g and 29.33 weeks, respectively. In patients undergoing transfusion, the mean hemoglobin and hematocrit values were 11.09g/dL and 31.64% and the average number of transfused RBC was 4.12 units. Conclusion: The NICU of HRSJ has a high transfusion rate in VLBW preterm infants and/or with gestational age less than 32 weeks at birth. Patients undergoing transfusion had lower mean weight and gestational age at birth and longer mean oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation time.