Milliliters Of Blood Research Articles

Myeloprotective potential of leaves extract fractions of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius in myelo suppression

Chemotherapy has been associated with myelosuppression. Myeloprotection is the main remedy to myelosuppression. Nature has been endowed with natural molecules rich in therapeutic components and one of such nature is Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (CA) which has been reported to be rich in antioxidants. The aim of the study was to investigate myelo-protective potential of CA in myelo-suppressed animal model. Albino rats (n = 32) were divided into 8 groups of 4 rats each labelled A-H out of which 7 groups (B-H) were induced intraperitoneally for myelosuppression with cyclophosphamide (CP) and only 6 groups (C-H) were treated with CA extracts for four weeks. Group A served as normal control, groups B-H was induced for myelosuppression with cyclophosphamide. Group B served as myelo-suppressed control, groups C, D and E, received 100mg/kg body weight (bw) methanol fractions of CA while groups F, G and H received 200mg/kg body weight methanol fractions of CA. Two milliliters of blood were collected into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid containers for total white blood cell count and absolute granulocyte count on days 3, 12 and 21 using mindray auto analyser BC-360. On day 30, bone marrow (BM) was harvested from one rat per group for BM examination and cellularity. Following administration of (CP), myelosuppression set in as observed in significant decreased (P < 0.05) in total white blood cell (TWBC) count and absolute granulocyte count. Extract fractions of CA caused significant increase (P < 0.05) in TWBC count and absolute granulocyte count in all the treated groups on days 12 and 21 compared with baseline. Bone marrow cellularity of all the treated groups revealed normal myeloid erythroid ratio indicating normal marrow cellularity. The findings in this study suggested myelo-protection by Cnidoscolus aconitifolius against cyclophosphamide induced myelosuppression.

A novel antigen biomarker for detection of high-level of Loa loa microfilaremia.

Loiasis is a disease caused by the nematode Loa loa. Serious adverse events sometimes occur in people with heavy L. loa microfilaremia after ivermectin treatment. In regions of Central Africa where loiasis is endemic, this significantly impedes global elimination programs for lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis that use mass distribution of ivermectin. Improved diagnostic tests to identify individuals at increased risk of serious adverse events could facilitate efforts to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis in this region. We previously identified the L. loa protein Ll-Bhp-1 in loiasis patient sera. Here, we further characterize Ll-Bhp-1 and report development of an antigen capture ELISA to detect this antigen. This assay detected Ll-Bhp-1 in 74 of 116 (63.8%) loiasis patient sera. Ll-Bhp-1 levels were significantly correlated with L. loa microfilarial counts, and the sensitivity of the assay was highest for samples from people with high counts, (94% and 100% in people with ≥20,000 and ≥50,000 microfilaria per milliliter of blood, respectively). The antigen was not detected in 112 sera from people with other filarial infections, or in 34 control sera from the USA. This Ll-Bhp-1 antigen assay is specific for loiasis, and highly sensitive for identifying people with high L. loa microfilarial counts who are at increased risk for serious adverse events after ivermectin treatment. L. loa antigen detection has the potential to facilitate loiasis mapping efforts and programs to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis in Central Africa.

The Transcript Levels and the Serum Profile of Biomarkers Associated with Clinical Endometritis Susceptibility in Buffalo Cows.

Determining the gene expression and serum profile of the indicators linked to clinical endometritis susceptibility in Egyptian buffalo cows was the aim of this investigation. The buffalo cows that were enrolled were divided into two groups: forty infected buffalo cows with clinical endometritis and forty seemingly healthy buffalo cows that served as the control group. For the purposes of gene expression and biochemical analysis, ten milliliters of blood was obtained via jugular venipuncture from each buffalo cow. TLR4, IL-8, IL-17, NFKB, SLCA11A1, NCF4, Keap1, HMOX1, OXSR1, ST1P1, and SERP1 were manifestly expressed at much higher levels in the buffaloes with endometritis. On the other hand, the genes that encode SOD, CAT, NDUFS6, Nrf2, and PRDX2 were down-regulated. There was a significant (p < 0.05) elevation of the serum levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), beta hydroxy butyric acid (BHBA), triglycerides (TGs), globulin, creatinine, and cortisol, along with a reduction in the serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, total protein albumin, urea, estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroxine (T4), prostaglandin F2 α (PGF2α), calcium, iron, and selenium, in the endometritis group in comparison with the control. However, no significant change was observed in the values of phosphorus, magnesium, copper, or zinc in either group. Within the selective breeding of naturally resistant animals, the variation in the genes under study and the changes in the serum profiles of the indicators under investigation may serve as a reference guide for reducing endometritis in Egyptian buffalo cows.

Histological Analysis of Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Diabetics, Non-diabetics, and Smokers Suffering with Chronic Periodontitis: An In Vitro Study.

The present study was aimed at evaluating the variations in fibrin network patterns of the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) procured from diabetics, non-diabetics, and smokers suffering from chronic periodontitis. Five milliliters of blood were drawn using a syringe from 60 participants (systemically healthy non-diabetics, diabetics, and smokers) who were diagnosed with chronic periodontitis. Five milliliters of blood were transferred to a dry glass tube. The clot (PRF) obtained after centrifugation from the glass tube was processed for light microscopy analysis. The PRF samples have demonstrated the presence of both dense and loose fibrin networks. There is an increase in cellular content in diabetic participants compared to systemically healthy and smoker participants. Smoker participants demonstrated a higher amount of loose fibrin content, which was arranged irregularly. A significantly greater increase in cellular content and loose fibrin network is seen in diabetics and smokers, respectively, compared to systemically healthy individuals. As compared to the systemically healthy participants, there is a variation in the fibrin network pattern and distribution of cellular structures in diabetic and smoker participants.

Molecular Transmission Network and Drug Resistance in Treatment-Naive HIV-1-Infected Patients in the Liangshan District, China.

This study aimed to investigate the molecular transmission network and drug resistance in treatment-naive HIV-1-infected patients in the Liangshan District, China. The research subjects for this study were HIV-1-infected patients who did not receive any antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Liangshan District between January 2022 and July 2023. Peripheral venous whole-blood samples were collected from the research subjects. Two milliliters of blood was used for CD4+ T lymphocyte counting detection. Ten milliliters of blood was centrifuged to separate the plasma and blood cells for quantitative detection of HIV-1 RNA and DNA and drug resistance testing of HIV-1. A total of 156 participants were included in this study (88 males and 68 females). The median age of the participants was 37 years. The findings revealed a positive correlation between the HIV-1 DNA and the HIV-1 RNA levels (r = 0.478, p < 0.001). However, a negative correlation was observed between the HIV-1 DNA levels and CD4+ T lymphocyte counts (r = -0.186, p = 0.020). Of the 156 participants, 145 were successfully tested for drug resistance of HIV-1 RNA and HIV-1 DNA simultaneously. Four cases failed the HIV-1 RNA drug resistance testing, and another two failed the HIV-1 DNA drug resistance testing. The most common HIV-1 subtype was the CRF07_BC recombinant. In this study, the overall incidence of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) was 8.33%. The resistance rates of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and protease inhibitor (PI) were 7.69% and 0.64%, respectively. In addition, 32 participants were found to have drug-resistant mutations. The primary drug-resistant mutations were K103N, V179D, E157Q, and A128T, mainly against efavirenz (EFV) and nevirapine (NVP) resistance. The drug resistance of HIV-1-infected ART-naive patients in the Liangshan District cannot be ignored. HIV-1 drug resistance testing is recommended before initiating ART.

Pregnant Women’s Hematological Profile in Duhok Governorate, Iraq

Abstract Background: In pregnancy, hematological changes occur in order to meet the demands of the developing fetus and placenta, with major alterations in blood volume. Abnormal hematological profile affects pregnancy and its outcome. Objective: The objective of study is to determine the hematological changes that take place during pregnancy, to assess these changes in pregnant women, and to contrast hematological parameters between trimesters in Duhok Governorate, Iraq. Materials and Methods: From October 2021 to May 2022, at the Duhok Maternity Hospital, 210 (70 first, 70 s, and 70 third trimesters) consecutively healthy pregnant women were subjected to the study. A pre-tested questionnaire form used to gather socio-demographic data for hematological parameters analysis using a Medonic auto analyzer blood count coulter, and a peripheral blood film review, after the withdrawal of four milliliters of blood from voluntaries participants. Results: The hematological profile for 210 pregnant women was studied, and there were differences between the trimesters. The results for red blood cells, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and lymphocytes were found statistically significant between 1st and 2nd trimesters (P value = 0.020, 0.0001, 0.006, and 0.023), respectively. Furthermore, the mean and standard deviation of lymphocytes between 1st and 3rd trimesters were statistically significant (P value &lt; 0.05). A significant difference was found between 2nd and 3rd trimester for hemoglobin and platelets (P value 0.0001 and 0.021), respectively. Conclusion: Numerous hematologic problems can be brought on by being pregnant or develop during pregnancy. These hematological conditions were leukocytosis, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. These complaints are a generous cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women, which has effects on both the mother and the fetus. In order to reduce the hazards, these hematological illnesses provide to pregnant women and their developing fetus; more research should be done.

#2765 Medium chain fatty acids are potent binding competitors to improve protein-bound uremic toxin clearance in hemodialysis

Abstract Background and Aims Protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs) remain a concerning burden in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) since their removal during hemodialysis is limited due to their tight binding to albumin. By increasing their circulating free fraction during HD, “binding competitors” of albumin could be used to increase their dialytic clearance. Medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs, 6 to 12 carbon length) are potent candidates for that purpose. The present study aims to investigate whether MCFAs could serve as potential binding competitors of albumin to enhance the removal of PBUTs, specifically IS and p-CS, during hemodialysis. Method Hexanoate (C6), octanoate (C8), and decanoate (C10) were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. The binding of MCFAs to albumin was investigated in silico and using fluorescent probes: warfarin (specific of Sudlow's site I) and dansylsarcosine (specific of Sudlow's site II). Indoxyl-sulfate (IS, final concentration 212 µM) and p-cresyl sulfate (p-CS, final concentration 250 µM) were added to a 600 µM bovine serum albumin-phosphate buffered saline solution. The free fractions of IS and p-CS were assayed with or without MCFAs (1-2 mM) using ultrafiltration devices in this solutions and in patients uremic plasma. To mimic the removal of PBUTs during a HD session, batches of 2 liters of fresh bovine blood were loaded with IS and p-CS (final concentration 200 µM). A 2-hours closed-loop HD session was performed using a Fresenius 5008 CorDiax HD generator (Fresenius, Germany). A solution of 224 mM of octanoate was perfused at the rate of 150 µL/min; A solution of saline 0.9% was used as a control. One milliliter of blood was sampled every 15 minutes through the arterial sampling port and concentration of IS and p-CS were assayed by HPLC coupled with fluorescence detection. The hemolytic effect of MCFAs was evaluated in vitro by assaying the free hemoglobin concentration. Results According to the in silico prediction, the binding was predicted to be almost complete for MCFAs ≥ C8 (Fig. 1). The enhanced protein binding appeared to be inversely correlated with water solubility, which became particularly low for MCFAs ≥ C10. Octanoate and decanoate were the more prone to displace dansylsarcosine from Sudlow's site II of albumin (which is the main binding site of IS and p-CS). In vitro, the incubation with 2 mM of octanoate and decanoate increased the free fraction of PBUTs from 12% to 53% for p-CS (4.4 fold, p &amp;lt; 0.05) and from 11% to 45% for IS (4.1 fold, p &amp;lt; 0.05). Octanoate was also able to increase the free fraction of PBUTs in patients uremic plasma (1.6-fold for IS, p &amp;lt; 0.05 and 4.8 fold for p-CS, &amp;lt;0.01). The per-dialytic infusion of octanoate significantly increased the fractional removal of p-CS (from 38% to 88%, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and IS (from 36% to 91%, p &amp;lt; 0.001). No significant hemolysis was observed for concentration of MCFAs lower than 2 mmol/L. Conclusion MCFAs and especially octanoate and decanoate are serious candidates to displace the binding of PBUTs such as p-CS and IS. The per-dialytic administration of octanoate significantly increased the removal of PBUTs and could constitute a new strategy to prevent their accumulation in end-stage kidney disease patients. Due to their good safety profile, MCFAs could be better tolerated than other chemical compounds that has already been tested in a clinical setting such as ibuprofen. Further in vivo studies are however needed to carefully evaluate this potentially new therapeutic option.

Hepatitis B and C viral coinfection and associated factors among HIV-positive patients attending ART clinics of Afar regional state, northeast Ethiopia.

Hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) coinfection are the major causes of liver-related morbidity and mortality among people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The burden of hepatitis among HIV-positive individuals has not been studied in the Afar region. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV and HCV coinfection and associated factors among HIV-positive patients in Afar Regional State, northeast Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 477 HIV-positive patients between February 2019 and May 2019. A structured and pretested questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data and associated factors. Five milliliters of blood was collected, and Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HCV antibodies were detected using rapid test kits. Positive samples were confirmed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associated factors. Statistical significance was set at P <0.05. Among the 477 study participants, 320/477(67.1%) of them were females and 157(32.9%) males. The overall prevalence of HIV-HBV and HIV-HCV coinfection was 25(5.2%) and 7(1.5%), respectively. Multi-sexual practice was significantly associated with HIV-HBV coinfection (AOR = 5.3; 95% CI: 1.2-24.4, P = 0.032). The prevalence of both HIV-HBV and HIV-HCV coinfection was intermediate. Multi-sexual practice was significantly associated with HIV-HBV coinfection. Screening of all HIV-positive patients for HBV and HCV and health education regarding the transmission modes should be considered.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF PREGNANT WOMEN WITH COMPLIANCE WITH IRON TABLET CONSUMPTION (FE) AT THE BANDA SAKTI HEALTH CENTER, LHOKSEUMAWE CITY YEAR 2023

Anemia is a condition of low levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin capacity, and hematocrit volume in each milliliter of blood when it is sufficient to meet the body's physiological needs. If a person has hemoglobin levels below 12 g/100 ml in their blood, it can be said that the person has anemia. Anemia is one of the health problems experienced by many pregnant women. One way to prevent anemia in pregnant women is to consume iron (Fe) tablets. However, the compliance of pregnant women in consuming iron tablets is still low, this is caused by various factors such as attitudes and knowledge which will later influence the formation of health behavior. This research aims to determine the relationship between knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women and compliance with consuming iron (Fe) tablets at the Banda Sakti Health Center in 2023. This research is an observational analytic research with a cross sectional approach with sampling using the accidental sampling method with 100 respondents. Data analysis used in the research includes univariate analysis and bivariate analysis using the chi-square test. The research results showed that the majority of respondents had insufficient knowledge, namely 44%, and the majority of respondents had a very negative attitude, namely 39%, and the majority of respondents, namely 56% of respondents, were disobedient. Proven by the chi-square statistical test which shows the relationship between knowledge and adherence to consuming iron (Fe) tablets. So the researchers concluded that there was a significant relationship between knowledge and compliance of pregnant women in consuming iron tablets. Keywords: Anemia, ANC, folic acid

Relationship between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Levels with Pain Intensity and Duration of Labor Stages in Primiparous Women.

Prolonged labor is associated with various maternal and neonatal complications. This study aims to investigate the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels and pain intensity and duration of labor stages in primiparous women. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Iran from November 2021 to January 2022 and comprised primiparous women who were in active labor after a term pregnancy (37-42 weeks). Five milliliter of blood was taken from each subject and centrifuged for the measurement of vitamin D level using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HLPC) method was used to measure 25-OH vitamin D. In addition, through history, examination, and investigations, the subjects were evaluated according to the pain intensity and duration of the first (active phase) and second stages of labor. The results of the Pearson correlation test indicated a significant relationship between vitamin D and active phase duration (r = 0.64, p = 0.012), second stage duration (r = 0.73, p = 0.001), pain intensity of the active phase (r = 0.61, p = 0.022), and pain intensity of the second stage (r = 0.65, p = 0.026). According to the analysis of variance table, based on vitamin D, there were statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the active phase duration, second stage duration, pain intensity of the active phase, and that of the second stage of labor (p < 0.05). Low levels of vitamin D may influence the progress of labor and increase the rate of prolonged labor.

Effect of fetal distress on viability and yield of umbilical cord blood stem cells–a prospective comparative study

IntroductionDifferent factors affect the quality and viability of cord blood stem cells, and therefore the efficacy of umbilical cord stem cell transplantation. Fetal distress is one factor affecting the quantity of CD34+ cells in cord blood. This study was designed to compare the viability and yield of the umbilical cord blood stem cells of women who have undergone emergency lower segment caesarean section for fetal distress or for other causes. Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional analytical study was performed at a tertiary care hospital facility with a total sample size of 68: 34 participants had undergone emergency C-section for fetal distress, and 34 had undergone emergency C-section for other causes. Umbilical cord blood was collected ex-utero in a 350 mL bag with citrate-phosphate-dextrose solution with adenine. Three milliliter of blood were transferred to an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) tube for cell counts and flow cytometry testing for CD34+. The chi-square test was used to compare the total mononuclear cell, CD34+, and viability between the groups. ResultsThe CD34+ count [mean 4.9 versus 1.1 (× 106 cells/unit)] and total nucleated cell count [mean 14.2 versus 7.5 (× 108/unit)] were significantly higher in cord blood units collected from women who delivered by C-section for fetal distress (p-value <0.05). However, the volume of umbilical cord stem cells and viability of stem cells did not vary significantly based on the presence or absence of fetal distress (p-value >0.05). ConclusionThe current study shows that umbilical cord blood collected during fetal distress has a significantly higher content of stem cells and total nucleated cells than the non-fetal distress group

Trypanosoma evansi Infection in Sumba Horses in East Sumba Regency : A Study at BBVet Denpasar

Background: Sumba is one of the original habitats of the Sandalwood Ponies and the presence of pony is an important element for the community. The Sumbanese herd their ponies in the savanna and rely on nature as a source of horse feed, consequently, during the dry season, the availability of the feed decreases. These conditions can potentially reduce the health status of ponies and increase morbidity or mortality from diseases caused by Trypanosoma evansi. Purpose: This study aims to determine the occurrence and intensity of Trypanosoma evansi infection in blood samples from horses examined at the Denpasar Bali Veterinary Centre. Methods: Thirty blood samples were collected from East Sumba Regency. Three milliliters of blood were taken from the jugular vein and immediately transferred into an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tube. Thin blood smears were subsequently prepared and examined using the Giemsa-stained blood smears method. The preparations of blood smear were examined under microscope to determine the Trypanosoma evansi infection and the intensity was calculated on the average number of Trypanosoma evansi in 100 red blood cells. Results: The result showed that six out of 30 horses were tested positive for Trypanosoma evansi. The infection intensity ranged from two to 18 parasites with an average number of 8 in the blood smear examination method. Conclusion: The incidence of trypanosomiasis in Sumba horses varies with each season in East Sumba Regency. The prophylactic measures that should be adopted in the particular herd of horses because this is the most significant blood protozoan parasite of equines.

Assessment of Blood Gas Pattern amongst Artisanal Refinery Operators in Rivers State, Nigeria

Some identified setbacks of the legitimate and illegitimate explorations/exploitations of crude oil and its derivatives in the Niger Delta are degraded environment, weak economy, and deteriorating health of the populace. Therefore, the current study evaluated the effect of artisanal refinery operation on respiratory blood gases and renal functions of its workers in Rivers State. As a cross-sectional investigation with sparse population, the multistage sampling technique (including purposive and snowball tools) was adopted to recruit 203 (including 120 operators of artisanal refinery―OAR-actively exposed and 83 non-OAR- actively exposed) willing and apparently healthy male and female adult subjects. Following receipt of ethical approval and consent, five milliliter of blood was taken from each subject from their antecubital vein after sterilizing the portion of the cubital fossa. The sample was then put into plain sample bottle and centrifuged to recover serum. Thereafter, the automated blood gas analyzer was used to measure the arterial blood gases of the subjects. The result showed marked (P&lt;0.05) reductions in the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) and oxygen saturation (SO2) levels in artisanal refinery operators (actively exposed) when compared to that of the passively-exposed subjects. Again, there were marked (P&lt;0.05) elevations in the plasma pH and bicarbonate ions (HCO-3) levels in the actively exposed subjects compared to their passively-exposed counterparts. In conclusion, there could be adverse impact on respiratory blood gases and incidences of metabolic alkalosis over chronic exposures to the OAR activities.

The association between CCR5, NLRC4, and AIM2 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to tuberculosis in the Iraqi population

Abstract. Khaleel B, Al-Alwani HRS, Asmar A. 2024. The association between CCR5, NLRC4, and AIM2 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to tuberculosis in the Iraqi population. Biodiversitas 25: 1022-1029. In immunological reactions against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, chemokines and their receptors, including CXCR3, CCR5, and RANTES, play an important role in the migration and activation of cells. The inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that serves as a master regulator of inflammation. Genetic polymorphisms contribute to individual phenotypic differences, such as disease risk and drug response. The current study was done to find the polymorphism in the CCR5, NLRC4, and AIM2 genes in our population and to look into how this polymorphism is linked to getting tuberculosis. Seventy-five tuberculosis patients participated in this study, while the control group comprised twenty-five control healthy individuals. We took two milliliters of blood from the patients and the control group and placed them in an Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA tube), or DNA extraction. Real-time PCR was used to find changes in the genes for CCR5 (rs2227010, rs2734648, rs1799987, rs1799988, rs1800023, rs1800024), NLRC4 (C-rs479333), and AIM2 (CC-rs1103577). Some genotypes were more common in the patient group, including SNPs CCR5 (rs2227010, rs2734648, rs1799988, rs1800023, rs1800024), NLRC4 C-rs479333, and AIM2 CC-rs1103577. However, by using Two-Two cross table the genotype of SNP CCR5-rs1799987 was not significantly different between the patient and the controls. Patients also had a lot of certain alleles for the SNPs CCR5 (rs2227010, rs1799988, rs1800023, rs1800024) and NLRC4 (rs479333). However, the alleles for the SNPs CCR5 (rs2734648, rs1799987) and AIM2 CC (rs1103577) were not very different between patients and controls. This study concludes that a polymorphism in various SNPs of the CCR5, NLRC4, and AIM2 genes may be a risk factor for tuberculosis.

Serum Immunoglobulin E Level and Its Relationship with Eosinophil Count among Patients with Allergic Rhinitis in Tertiary Hospital in Bauchi, Northeastern Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Allergic rhinitis is an immunoglobulin E-mediated hypersensitivity disease of the mucous membrane of the nasal airway. There is a paucity of information regarding serum immunoglobulin E level and its relationship with eosinophil count among patients with allergic rhinitis in our facility and Northeastern Nigeria. To determine serum immunoglobulin E level and its relationship with eosinophil count among patients with allergic rhinitis. It was a cross-sectional study of consecutive patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis that were recruited from the ear, nose, and throat surgery and respiratory medicine clinics of ATBUTH, Bauchi, Bauchi State, Northeastern Nigeria, from January 01, 2022, to May 31, 2023. Five milliliters of blood were analyzed for immunoglobulin E estimation using an immunoglobulin E ELISA kit and determination of eosinophil count using pack five hematologic autoanalyzer. Extracted data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23.0 software. There were 61 patients studied comprising 22 (36.1%) males and 39 (63.9%) females with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.7. Their ages range from 18 to 77 years old. The mean age, serum IgE level, and eosinophil counts of all three patients were 38.65 ± 14.34 years, 371.24 ± 82.63 IU/ml, and 3.35 ± 2.87%, respectively. All (100%) participants had raised serum IgE levels, and 88.5% had normal eosinophil count. There was no significant correlation between the serum IgE level and eosinophil counts (r = -0.206; P = 0.112). All of the participants had a high serum IgE level. There was no significant association between serum IgE and eosinophil count.

Detection of PSMA expression on circulating tumor cells by blood-based liquid biopsy in prostate cancer.

For patients with mCRPC, PSMA-targeted radioligand treatment has significantly improved the clinical outcome. A blood-based liquid biopsy assay for recognizing PSMA protein expression on circulating tumor cells may be beneficial for better informing therapeutic decision-making and identifying the patients most likely to benefit from PSMA-targeted radioligand therapy. Using high-throughput imaging and digital AI pathology algorithms, a four-color immunofluorescence assay has been developed to find PSMA protein expression on CTCs on a glass slide. Cell line cells (LNCaP/PC3s/22Rv1) spiked into healthy donor blood were used to study the precision, specificity, sensitivity, limit of detection, and overall accuracy of the assay. Clinical validation and low-pass whole-genome sequencing were performed in PSMA-PET-positive patients with high-risk mCRPC (N = 24) utilizing 3 mL of blood. The PSMA CTC IF assay achieved analytical specificity, sensitivity, and overall accuracy above 99% with high precision. In the clinical validation, 76% (16/21) of the cases were PSMA positive with CTC heterogeneity, and 88% (21/24) of the patients contained at least one conventional CTC per milliliter of blood. Thirty-six low-pass-sequenced CTCs from 11 individuals with mCRPC frequently exhibited copy number increases in AR and MYC and losses in RB1, PTEN, TP53, and BRCA2 locus. The analytical validation utilizing Epic Sciences' liquid biopsy CTC platform demonstrated the potential to detect PSMA protein expression in CTCs from patients with mCRPC. This assay is positioned as an effective research tool to evaluate PSMA expression, heterogeneity, and therapeutic response in many ongoing clinical studies to target tumors that express PSMA.

Evaluation of Some Renal Biomakers in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia/Prostate Cancer Attending Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa) are among the urological conditions that affect aging men. Patients with this pathology could develop renal impairment. Renal biomarkers like beta-2-microglobulin (BMG), urea, urine creatinine, microalbumin (MALB), and albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) were assessed with total (tPSA) and free prostate specific antigen (fPSA), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), height, weight and BMI. This cross sectional study recruited 120 men using convenient sampling technique which comprised 40 BPH, 40 PCa and 40 control attending Urology Clinic of NAUTH Nnewi, Anambra State. Five (5) milliliters of blood/ urine samples were collected from the patients and the necessary data were obtained from clinical records of the patients. The weight (kg) and height (m) were measured using standard beam balance scale and a stadiometer respectively and the BMI calculated. Blood pressure was measured using sphygmomanometer and stethoscope. PSA (ng/ml) was estimated by Enzyme immunoassay technique, BMG (mg/l) and MALB (mg/l) by immunoturbidimetric method, urea and creatinine were determined spectrophotometrically using modified Urease-Berthelot method and Jaffe slot alkaline picrate method respectively. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 21.0. The results were presented as median. Kruskal Wallis was used to determine significant differences between the mean values. P&lt;0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. The results showed a significantly higher median values of tPSA, fPSA BMG and MALB in patients with BPH /PCa when compared with the control. MALB had a strong correlation with ACR in all the groups. Despite the significant increase in BMG and MALB in this study, routine indices of renal function remained normal. The increase in the sensitive markers in patients with BPH/PCa is an indication of early renal impairment.

Comparison of erythrocyte sedimentation rate measurement between Westergren method and automated method among patients attending Jigjiga University Sheik Hassen Yabare Referral Hospital, Jigjiga, Ethiopia.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a widely used screening test in clinical practice as an indicator of inflammatory and degenerative malignant diseases. The Westergren method, renowned as the gold standard, is valued for its accuracy and cost-effectiveness but demands considerable time and blood volume. Emerging automated methods offer quicker and more convenient alternatives, aiming to replace manual techniques. Nonetheless, validating these automated methods against the reference Westergren method is essential to ensure reliability. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate ESR measurement results obtained from both the reference Westergren method and the automated (SFRI ESR 3000) method. A Hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Jigjiga University Sheik Hassen Yabare Referral Hospital from July 15 to September 16, 2023. Following the acquisition of informed consent, blood samples were obtained from 158 participants, five milliliters of blood from each participant. These samples were then subjected to ESR estimation using both the Westergren (reference) method and the automated (SFRI ESR 3000) method. Subsequently, the collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and MedCalc version 12.3.0.0 statistical Softwares. Statistical analyses such as Paired t-tests, Pearson correlation, linear regression, and the Bland and Altman plot were employed. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The paired sample t-test analysis revealed no significant difference between the use of the reference Westergren method and the automated method for ESR determination, with a mean difference (MD) of 0.7 ± 9.2 mm/h (P = 0.36). Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between the two methods, with a remarkable correlation coefficient (r = 0.94, p < 0.001). The Bland-Altman data analysis indicated no evidence of systematic bias and demonstrated good agreement of ESR values between the two methods, with a limit of agreement of -17.3 to +18.7. Moreover, within-run imprecision analysis for the automated method across a range of ESR values showed coefficient of variation of 27.08, 12.65, and 10.32% for low, medium, and high ESR levels, respectively. The SFRI ESR 300 automated method demonstrates the potential for interchangeable use with the Westergren method for determining ESR, given the strong correlation and good agreement. Additionally, the same reference range could be applied during interpretation.

A study to evaluate platelet parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case-control study

Abstract Background: Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disorder characterized by persistent elevation of plasma glucose and permanent complications of both small and large vessels. The high mortality rates, a decline in quality of life, and high morbidity rates are mostly caused by these problems. When blood vessels are injured, the normal hemostatic process depends heavily on platelets to maintain their integrity. Objectives: This study aimed at comparing various platelet indices between people with type II diabetes and people who appeared to be in good health status. Materials and Methods: This case-controlled study was carried out at the Azadi Teaching Hospital’s Laboratory in Duhok. Four milliliters of blood were collected from diabetics and non-diabetic controls into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid anticoagulant tubes. Glycated hemoglobin and complete blood count were evaluated by automated chemistry analyzer Cobas 6000 (Roche) and automated blood count analyzer (Coulter, Sweden), respectively; platelet parameters including platelet count, platelet distribution width, mean platelet volume, platelet-large cell ratio, and platelet crit were obtained. Diabetic patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 with good glycemic control (HbA1c &lt; 7%) and Group 2 with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%). Statistical software SPSS 26.0 was used. Results: The mean age of diabetic patients in this study was 50.97 ± 10.91 years. The mean values of platelet parameters except for platelet counts were significantly higher among diabetic patients when compared to non-diabetic subjects as well as among diabetic patients with poor glycemic controls compared to those with good glycemic control. Conclusion: All platelet indices apart from platelet count were significantly elevated among patients with diabetes mellitus than healthy subjects and also in relation to the degree of glycemic control of the disease with a P value of &lt;0.05.

Evaluation of mechanical transmission of Trypanosoma vivax by Stomoxys calcitrans in a region without a cyclic vector.

This work investigated the mechanical transmission of Trypanosoma vivax by Stomoxys calcitrans to cattle in a region without a cyclic vector. The study involved two experiments, one with calves experimentally infected with T. vivax, in the acute phase of trypanosomosis (Experiment 1) and the other in the chronic phase (Experiment 2). In both experiments, two transmission methods were used with flies that had not fed for 24h or had never fed: (i) Method 1: flies released freely in cattle pens (≈3,300 flies/pen for 10days); and (ii) Method 2: flies placed in a feeding chamber (12 flies/animal). To develop Method 1 in the two experiments (acute and chronic phases), T. vivax-positive animals were kept with T. vivax-negative animals. Periodically, the Brener method, Woo method, blood smears, cPCR, ELISA, IFAT, and Imunoteste® were performed to detect T. vivax in the animals. We also recorded the animals' head tossing and hoof stomping and the number of flies near the pens' inner walls. Subsequently, biological testing was performed using lambs. For Method 2 in both experiments, flies inside the feeding chamber first fed on T. vivax-positive animals and later on negative animals. In both experiments and methods, we examined the flies for the presence of T. vivax through blood smears and cPCR of the proboscis and abdomen. In Experiment 2 (chronic phase), a test was conducted to determine how long trypomastigotes forms could survive on the blood of animals with different levels of parasitemia. None of the animals (calves and lambs) became infected with T. vivax or showed antibodies against it. During the evaluation period, the animals in the presence of the flies exhibited more hoof stomping and head tossing compared to those without flies (control). Additionally, there was an increase in the number of flies in the pens during the experiment. Only in Experiment 1 (acute phase) were T. vivax trypomastigotes and DNA found in the abdomen of the flies but not in the proboscis. In Experiment 2 (chronic phase), higher concentrations of trypomastigotes per milliliter of blood were associated with a shorter the lifespan of this stage of the parasite. In conclusion, under the variable conditions of the experiments (hosts, number of flies, and level of parasitemia), S. calcitrans was unable to mechanically transmit T. vivax to cattle.