Number Of WBC Research Articles

Light perception and related alternation of physiological performance in spotted knifejaw Oplegnathus punctatus

Light is one of the main environmental factors that affects the behavior and physiology of fish. In the present study, the behavioral responses, retinal histology, hematological parameters (white blood cell [WBC], red blood cell [RBC], hemoglobin [Hb] hematocrit [Hct]), hepatic antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], and glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px]) activity, aspartate-aminotransferase (AST) and alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, histological alterations, apoptosis, and stress-related gene expression (hsp70, hsp90a, hsp90b) of spotted knifejaw were investigated under different light colors. The results showed that the residence time of spotted knifejaw plants significantly decreased under red and blue light stimuli but significantly increased under green light. Moreover, a positive and negative phototaxis of the spotted knifejaw under green and red lights was observed. However, retinal structure (relative thickness, cell number, and size) remained unchanged after red and green light treatment for 12 h. WBC and RBC numbers, Hb and Hct contents, hepatic SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, ALT and AST activities, and MDA levels were significantly increased after red and green light treatment for 12 h. Moreover, red and green light treatment caused hepatocyte vacuolization and nuclear migration and significantly increased the percentage of apoptotic cells. Hepatic hsp70, hsp90a, and hsp90b mRNA levels were significantly upregulated under red and green stimuli. Furthermore, the values of the above parameters under red light treatment were significantly greater than those under green light treatment. The aforementioned parameters nearly recovered to normal levels after the fish returned to normal light for 12 h. In conclusion, in spotted knifejaw, green light promoted attraction and red light avoidance, while red light could induce a more sensitive physiological response than green light. These findings expand the current knowledge on light perception and aid in the management of spotted knifejaw in captivity.

THE PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF LAYING QUAILS TO NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHT INTENSITY

The current study was aimed to investigate the impact of white light of various intensity of illumination on some reproductive and hematological parameters of female quail (Coturnix coturnix), Where 80 one-day-old birds were used, separated into four groups distributed as follows: The 1st represented as control was exposed to natural lighting, while 2ed ,3rd ,4th was subjected to different intensity of light represented by 0.6, 25 and 45 lux, respectively, for 5 h/day, each group was divided into 4 replicates. The study continued for 8 weeks. The results indicates a notable raise in the level of FSH and LH hormone with an increase in ovarian weight, an elevate in the number of outgrowth and grown-up follicles for groups exposed to 25 and 45 lux light intensity compared to control and 0.6 lux. It was observed for the same groups an increases in the weight of the edible organs (heart, liver and gizzard). In addition, there was a clear increase in the number of RBC, WBC, lymphocytes, hemoglobin and PCV levels, while the 25 and 45 lux groups showed a decline in the level of MCV with a raise in MCH and MCHC compared with the control and 0.6 lux. It conclude that the intensity of different lighting had positive effects in improving some reproductive and blood characteristics of female quail.

Effects of a Phytogenic Feed Additive on Redox Status, Blood Haematology, and Piglet Mortality in Primiparous Sows

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a polyphenolic phytogenic feed additive (PFA) based on plant extracts, such as Embelia officinalis, Ocimum sanctum and nut fibre, on the redox status, haematological parameters, and piglet mortality in sows. A total of 64 primiparous sows were divided into two groups: T1-control group: regular gestation (GF) and lactation feed (LF), T2 group: regular GF and LF supplemented with a PFA (10 g daily) for 14 days before and 7 days after the farrowing. Blood samples were collected 0–3 h after farrowing. Haematological parameters (Packed Cell Volume/PCV, White Blood Cells/WBC, Platelets/PLTs) were counted in blood smears. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyls (CARBS) levels were determined in sow plasma. The performance and reproductive parameters of sows at farrowing and weaning days were recorded. The mean numbers of PCV and PLT counts in the T2 group were higher in comparison to the T1 group (p = 0.041, p = 0.033, respectively). In contrast, the mean numbers of WBC and neutrophils were almost significantly higher in the T2 group (p = 0.051). The mean number of stillborn piglets was significantly higher in the T1 group (2.12) compared to the T2 group (1.03). The mean number of alive piglets 24 h after farrowing and the mean number of the weaned piglets were significantly higher in group T2 (13.9 vs. 15.4 and 12.6 vs. 14.3). Sows in group T2 had significantly more backfat at weaning than the sows in group T1 (13.3 vs. 12.7). The mean levels of CARBS (nmol/mL) and TBARS (μmol/L) in group T1 (24.8 and 18.7) were significantly higher in comparison to group T2 (18.3 and 14.9). In conclusion, the use of a polyphenolic PFA in sows has beneficial effects on their welfare and performance due to its antioxidative effects. Furthermore, PFAs appear to exert antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on PLTs, WBCs, and RBCs, respectively.

Coffee Consumption in Association with Serum Iron Levels: A Cross-sectional Study.

This study determines the association between adult Saudi Arabian coffee consumption and serum iron levels. The extensive Saudi Arabian population, including both sexes - male and female, participated in this cross-sectional community-based study from 1 October 2020 to 31 June 2022. The participants were selected arbitrarily using the systematic simple random position. The current study enrolled 113 participants with a mean age of 33 years, including 94 (83.2%) females and 19 (16.8%) males. The concentration of iron absorption assessed among 62 individuals who participated in the group of occasional coffee drinkers was higher (54.9%) than the 51 individuals who participated in the group of regular coffee drinkers (45.1%). In daily coffee consumption, paired samples statistics in mean baseline WBC level (103/μl) was 6.396. On day 31 of June 2022, WBC level (103/μl) was 6.114. Paired samples statistics in mean baseline iron level was 44.29. On day 31 of June 2022, iron level was 72.15. The paired samples correlation in baseline and day 31 iron levels was 0.719, with a significant difference of 0.000. It is critical to acquire the most recent information and local statistics on the frequency of low serum iron levels in Saudi Arabia's diverse adult population. The adult population of Saudi Arabia correlates with coffee consumption and changes in serum ferritin or iron levels and WBC counts. Neither the WBC numbers nor the iron levels were significantly altered. Further research is needed to determine the potential mechanisms causing these relationships.

Crocin from saffron ameliorates allergic airway inflammation through NF-κB, IL-17, and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways in mice.

Asthma is a complex inflammatory disorder with the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lung airways. Saffron's active component, crocin, has been proven to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. The objective of this current study was to explore the impact of crocin on NF-kB and nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathways in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized mice, aiming to understand its mechanism. Four different groups were formed by dividing forty male BALB/C mice: control group, OVA-sensitized group (OVA), OVA combined with crocin 30 mg/kg (OVA-Cr30), and the OVA combined with crocin 60 mg/kg (OVA-Cr60). In order to determine the total number of WBC and inflammatory cells infiltrating the lung, we utilized the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid for counting purposes. The mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2, HO-1, IL-17, and NF-κB in lung tissue were assessed through real-time PCR and western blot techniques. Crocin significantly prevented the increase of total WBC and inflammatory cells in the lung tissue (P<0.001 for all) and histopathological changes in OVA-sensitized mice. Furthermore, crocin displayed suppressive effects on the enhancement of NF-kB (P<0.01) and IL-17 (P<0.05) mRNA and protein levels in OVA-sensitized mice while preserving Nrf2 (P<0.01) and HO-1 (P<0.05) expression levels. Crocin effects became increasingly apparent when utilized at high concentrations. Crocin decreased airway inflammation, partially by inhibiting NF-κB and IL-17 and up-regulating Nrf2/HO-1 mRNA and protein expression levels.

Effects of synbiotics on innate immunity in the stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis)

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary synbiotic (a group of probiotics at a dose of 3.09×108CFU/ml with a mixture of prebiotics) supplementations on the innate immunity of stinging catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis. A total of 1000 H. fossilis fries with an average initial weight of 2.03±0.15 g and an average length of 6.96±0.45 cm was randomly stocked into four groups T1 (control: no synbiotic), T2 (4%), T3 (6%), T4 (8%) groups. During the 45-day feeding trial, fish were fed twice a day at a rate of 3% body weight. Additionally, T2 (4% synbiotic), T3 (6% synbiotic), and T4 (8% synbiotic) received synbiotic supplementations (4%, 6%, and 8% of basal feed, respectively) once every 15 days. Results showed improvement in innate immunity of experimental units in terms of composition of WBC, Neutrophil, Basophil, Eosinophils, Lymphocytes. Though the number of WBC was not significantly higher but the increased composition of other white blood cells indicates that synbiotic supplementation can potentially improve the immunity status of H. fossilis, and the results can be supported through further investigations.

A Study on the Relationship between Clinical Course and Serum IL-6 Level in Neonatal Calves with Diarrhoea

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between clinical course and serum IL-6 level in neonatal calves with diarrhea. The study material consisted of 40 calves in the neonatal period. The calves were divided into 4 groups: group I (healthy, control, n=10), group II (with mild diarrhea, n=10), group III (with moderate diarrhea, n=10) and group IV (with severe diarrhea, n=10). The breed, age, sex and clinical findings of the calves were recorded. Etiological analysis was performed on stool samples taken from calves. Haematological analyzes were performed on the blood samples taken and serum IL-6 levels were determined using the ELISA test kit. WBC and NEU numbers of calves with diarrhea in group II, group III and group IV were found to be numerically higher than healthy calves in group I (P˃0.05). Calves in group II (239.76±11.05), group III (293±48.7) and group IV (300±25.06) had higher serum IL-6 levels than calves in group I (211.58±10.07) (P˂ 0.01). While IL-6 levels of group IV were higher than group III (P˃0.05), IL-6 levels of group III and IV were higher than group II (P˂0.01). According to the data obtained from this study, it was concluded that serum IL-6 is an important marker that can be used in the follow-up of the disease in diarrheic neonatal calves.

The Effect of Oral Doses of Chitosan-Titanium Nanoparticles on Some Physiological Parameters of Male Albino Rats Infected with Acrylamide

The study aimed to determine the characteristics of nanoparticles, such as shape, size, aggregates, absorption using appropriate equipment, and determine the effect of dosing with chitosan-titanium nanoparticles on some physiological parameters of male rats exposed to acrylamide. We notice a significant decrease in the total number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, the percentage of red blood cells, the number of platelets, lymphocytes, and HDL in the group of rats exposed to acrylamide compared with the healthy control group, as well as a significant increase in the values of white blood cells, monocytes, cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL. and VLDL compared with the control group. ((While we notice, when adding nanoparticles with acrylamide, a significant increase in the total number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, the percentage of red blood cells, the number of platelets, lymphocytes, and HDL. We also notice a decrease in the numbers of WBC, monocytes, cholesterol, TG, LDL, and VLDL compared to the group exposed to acrylamide.)) While we notice that when nanoparticles are added with acrylamide, there is a significant increase in the total number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, the percentage of red blood cells, the number of platelets, lymphocytes, and HDL, as they were 6.16, 12.00, 45.00, 640.00, 31.00, 37.15, respectively, compared to the group. exposed to acrylamide, which were 4.73, 9.65, 38.50, 588.50, 25.60, 32.65, respectively. We also note a decrease in the numbers of WBC, monocytes, cholesterol, TG, LDL, and VLDL, as they were 6.10, 7.90, 158.75, 99.75, 101.65, and 19.95 compared to those exposed to acrylamide. The group exposed to acrylamide, which was 7.67, 14.95, 197.60, 171.29, 130.68, 34.26, respectively.

Efficacy of Bacillus subtilis in Reducing Geotrichum candidum Toxicology in the White Rat Biological Systems

The study aimed to evaluate the presence of Bacillus subtilis in the food dosed to laboratory rats to reduce the effect of G. candidum and its secretions of phenols on the rats’ health indicated by some chemical and biological blood variables. The experiment was conducted using 24 Rattus norvegicus adult male rats randomly divided into 8 groups 3 rats each. As treatments were; untreated control, dosing with 1 ml/Kg of Dimethyl Sulfoxide, pure orange juice, G. candidum infected juice, 1 ml B. subtilis+ 1 ml G. candidum infected juice, 60 mg/Kg fungal phenol, 1 ml B. subtilis+ 60 mg/Kg fungal phenol, or 1 ml B. subtilis. The results showed that dosing experimental rats with orange juice extracted from the orange parts infected with G. candidum, or dosing with phenols extracted from the fungus growth medium, led to a significant increase in blood variables including the numbers of WBC, GOT and GPT enzymes, and levels of blood urea. these two treatments also led to a significant decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and blood content of protein. Whereas, the same treatments in the presence of B. subtilis maintained the values of all indicators under study within the normal limits close to control, and no negative effect was detected due to dosing with bacteria alone compared to the dosing with healthy juice.

Can Leukoerythroblastic Activation Indicate Coronavirus Infection?

The complete blood counting (CBC) parameters can, to a considerable extend, indicate health status of any patient. The blood parameters of 22 Coronavirus male pandemic victims are compared with their counterpart of male healthy individuals using unequal ANOVA biostatistics software. A significant drop (p≤0.002) in the number of WBC and an insignificant decrease (p≤0.06) in the hemoglobin percentage (Hb%) were detected in the Coronavirus victims in comparison with the healthy individuals. Simultaneously, the total numbers of RBC showed a significant increase (p≤0.05) representing leukoerythroblastic activation, while the blood platelets (PLT) were significantly (p≤0.001) dropped, respectively in comparison with counterpart control and those of international controls. These variations and fluctuation in the blood parameters above or below the normal ranges would indicate a clear health disorders in the coronavirus victims. It is concluded that CBC could well be utilized as a prognostic tool in the clinical laboratories prior sophisticated and costly measurements i.e. Biochemical, PCR and immunological testes.

Vit D Assessment in Patients with Covid-19 Virus

Abstract Background vitamin D may potentially play an important role in preventing or ameliorating the multi-system consequences of COVID-19 infections. Aim of the Work The aims of this study is to assess that there is a potential association between mean levels of vitamin D in the cases and mortality caused by COVID-19. Patients and Methods This was a case control study that was conducted on 80 Egyptian Patients attending at El medani hospital, El Obour specialized hospital, and the outpatient clinics at Ain shams University hospitals through six months. Results Vitamin D deficiency has been found to contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome, a major cause of death associated with COVID-19. Vitamin D plays a role in strengthening the body‟s immunity by inducing monocyte differentiation and inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation. Regarding to the laboratory investigations: We have found that the number and percentage of WBC, LYM and NEU were significantly different between positive and negative RT-PCR cases for COVID-19/or SARS-CoV-2. In comparison to the normal range, we found low WBC and LYM counts in patients with positive RT-PCR COVID-19. Regarding to vitamin D: Our study showed statistically significant positive correlation between vit D and lymphocytes, and there was statistically significant negative correlation between vit D, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, CRP, BUN, S. creatinine, AST, ALT, FERRITIN, LDH and D-DIMER. Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for infections as well as for insufficient innate immune system reactivity, therefore the winter time testing for serum vitamin D status (lowest levels expected) should be mandatory as part of regular health check status. The test is even more mandatory in patients with chronic diseases, where we expect vitamin D deficiency during all the year and an increased burden of risk factors for further disease severity and even mortality. In conclusion, this study confirms that vitamin D deficiency is associated with more severe lung involvement, longer disease duration, in COVID-19 patients.

#4858 THE CHANGES OF THE C REACTIVE PROTEIN LEVEL DURING THE CRRT PROCEDURE

Abstract Background and Aims Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is recommended for critically ill patients (pts). Various infections and sepsis often occur in these pts. In addition to being frequently used as inflammation parameter, C reactive protein (CRP) is considered an important regulator of inflammatory processes and may have an active role in atherosclerosis. Changes in its level can have indirect effects on these processes. The aim of this study was to monitor change of CRP level during the CRRT procedure and to evaluate the potential correlation between this change and other monitored parameters. Method The study was done as the observational, retrospectively prospective study on 154 pts, on whom 343 CRRT procedures (proc) were performed. All pts were treated at the Clinics of the University Clinical Centre of Vojvodina, by the Dialysis Department, during 2021. and 2022. Procedures that lasted longer than 5 hours were included. CRRT modalities were CVVHD and CVVHDF, with the use of different filters (EMiC2, Kit8/CiCa1000, oXiris, ST150), according to the device (MultiFiltrate, PrismaFlex) and anticoagulation used. Demographic, clinical and CRRT proc data were collected from the medical documentation. Blood for laboratory testing was sampled at the beginning and the end of the proc. An increase or decrease of CRP level by more than 5% compared to the initial value was considered significant. The collected data were statistically processed. Results From 154 pts, 86.83% were men, 13.17% women, with average (avg.) age of 56.52 years. From 343 proc, 41.69% were CVVHD, 58.31% CVVHDF, with avg. duration of 1033 min. Average ultrafiltration (UF) was 2670mL, with avg. UF/hour of 161.54mL/h. Average initial CRP level was 176.25mg/l, with avg. level of 174.6mg/l at the end of the proc. In 44.9% proc an increase and in 43.44% proc a decrease in the CRP level was verified. The CRP level did not change significantly during 11.66% proc (40/343). Patients' age (p = 868) and gender (p = 752) did not affect the change in CRP level during CRRT proc. Procedures in which CRP level decreased lasted longer (1084min) than those with CRP level increase (1023min), but the difference is not statistically significant (p = 199). Prescribed CRRT dose (p = 485), nor total UF (p = 164) did not affect change in CRP level during proc. Hourly UF was significantly lower for CRRT proc during which CRP level decreased (148.18mL/h) compared to those with the CRP level increase (172.23mL/h) (p = 000). CRRT modality had a significant impact on changes of CRP level during the proc. In a higher percentage of CVVHD proc (48.32%) a decrease in CRP level was seen compared to CVVHDF proc (36.36%) (p = 035). A significant difference was found in the changes of CRP levels in relation to the filters used (p = 011). The use of the EMiC2 filter most often resulted in a decrease in CRP level (56.25%), compared to the use of other filters. Septic condition was present in 85.91% of proc that ended with a decrease of CRP level and in 66.23% of proc with the CRP level increase (p = 000). In proc with the CRP level decrease, basal levels of PCT and fibrinogen were significantly higher than in those with the CRP level increase (p = 037, p = 000 retrospectively). Initial number of WBC did not differ between two groups (p = 424). Comorbidities such as diabetes (p = 489), malignancy (p = 5) or autoimmune disease (p = 25) did not affect change in CRP level during CRRT proc, nor did surgery precede the proc (p = 782). No association between the changes of CRP level during the CRRT proc and the subsequent pts mortality (p = 289) or recovery of renal function (p = 808) was found. Conclusion During the CRRT procedure, the level of CRP in significantly influenced by the average hourly ultrafiltration, the CRRT modality, the filter used, and the presence of septic condition, with high levels of PCT and fibrinogen.

Effect of Fenvalerate Toxicity on Biochemical and Haematological Parameters and Ameliorative Effect of Quinoa Seeds in Swiss Albino Mice

Fenvalerate is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide with moderate mammalian toxicity. It affects the central nervous system and is used for the control of flies and ticks in barns and stables. Exposure of this insecticide to humans occurs in the field. The present study was conducted to observe the toxicity of insecticide on biochemical and blood parameters after treatment with fenvalerate, a synthetic pyrethroid and find out the possible protective role of Quinoa seeds in Swiss albino mice. The mice in this study were divided into 5 groups, and 6 animals were taken into each group. Group A control mice received vehicle distilled water only. Group B and C were administered with fenvalerate at 12.5 and 25 mg/kg body weight respectively for 30 days. Group D was administered 12.5 mg/kg fenvalerate +25 mg/kg Quinoa seeds and Group E received 25 mg/kg fenvalerate +50 mg/kg Quinoa seeds. Fenvalerate treatment resulted in a significant increase in the levels of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase (SGPT) and Serum Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase (SGOT). Administration of Quinoa seeds along with fenvalerate resulted in a decrease in these biochemical values. A significant increase in the number of RBC, WBC and haemoglobin was observed in the fenvalerate-treated groups. The result suggests a possible protective role of Quinoa seeds on fenvalerate toxicity.

Influence of two species of Ticks and Lice on some hematological parameters in black goats during spring and summer seasons in Sulaimani Governorate - Kurdistan region.

This study was carried out in Sulaimani province Kurdistan region-Iraq during the spring and summer seasons from April to September 2015 on 400 head of black goat Capra aegagrus were infected with ticks and lice, have been selected from different herds and regions were elonging to the districts and sub-districts of Sulaimani province, to identified and effect of their parasites on some blood values in the local goats. It has been diagnosed two species of hard ticks of the genus Rhipicephalus: R. sanguinaus and R. turanicus, its percentage 82.30% and 17.70% respectively, also have been diagnosed two species of lice: Biting lice is Damalinia capriae and other species Sucking lice was Linognathus stenopsis, its percentage 71.44% and 28.56% respectively. The results showed a significant difference P ˂ 0.01 in the infection rate between the spring and summer seasons where the total infection rate during the spring and summer seasons for ticks and lice: 32.25%, 19.75% respectively. As for ticks were more infections in the spring season and the least in the summer season, which were 44%, 20.5% respectively, whereas the infection rate of lice was more during the summer season and less during the spring season, which was 25.5% and 14% respectively. The study results showed presence of a significant decrease according to Chi-Square Test in the total number of red blood corpuscles RBC , the amount of hemoglobin Hb , packed cell volume PCV and the average weight of mean corpuscular hemoglobin MCH in the goats that infected with the lice and ticks, that anemia in the goats that infected with the ticks was Microcytic - Hyperchromic anemia type , while in the goats that infected with lice , anemia was of the the type Normocytic - Hyperchromic anemia. Also identified a significant increase P ˂ 0.05 in the total number of white blood cells WBC in the goats that infected with lice and goats because of the significant increase in the number of Lymphocyte and Neutrophils while the the ratio of Eosinophil, Basophil and Monocyte was decreased in all infections as compared with the control samples.

Influence of Physical Exercise Program on Glycemic Status and Inflammatory Parameters in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Physical activity has a positive effect on the regulation of diabetes mellitus and has been shown to have benefits in improving health. Aim: Examine the effects of physical activity on changes in glycemic parameters (glucose, HbA1C) and inflammatory parameters (leukocyte count (WBC), CRP) before and one month after the exercise program. Material and Methods: The study was designed as a prospective, analytical, and observational study. Results: T-test of paired samples assessed the impact of physical activity on glycemic and inflammatory parameters in subjects with confirmed Diabetes mellitus type 2 and in subjects without confirmed diabetes mellitus type 2. In subjects with confirmed diabetes the value of eta squared (ɳ2 - eta sqared) is 95%, which indicates a significant impact of physical activity on the change in glucose values and on the change of HbA1C value was indicated by the value of eta square of 93%. When it comes to inflammatory parameters, the impact of physical activity was found in the reduced number of WBC (ɳ2 = 88%), and in CRP (ɳ2 = 90%). In subjects without confirmed diabetes mellitus, a significant effect of physical activity on the change in glucose (ɳ2 = 94%) and HbA1C (ɳ2 = 77%). The influence of physical activity on the reduction of leukocyte count was proven by ɳ2 - eta sqared test (ɳ2 = 66%), as well as a decrease in CRP (ɳ2 = 30%). Conclusion: This study showed a significant impact of physical activity on the reduction of elevated glycemic and inflammatory parameters.

Effect of Adding an Organic Binder on Health of Cows Fed with Mycotoxins Contaminated Diet

Mycotoxins contamination occurring in dairy cow's diet is responsible for devastating effects on livestock health. Among different strategies, using organic adsorbents is a promising approach to reduce the toxicity of mycotoxins. This study investigated the effects of an organic adsorbent containing Lactobacillus brevis TD4, Lactobacillus paracasei TD3, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell wall on milk production, somatic cell count, blood parameters (white blood cell [WBC], lymphocyte [LYM], neutrophil, basophil, monocyte, eosinophil, red blood cell, haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin) and liver function (alanine transaminase [ALT], gamma-glutamyl transferase [GGT], aspartate transaminase [AST], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], urea, total protein, albumin) in dairy cows fed a naturally contaminated diet with Zearalenone and Deoxynivalenol. The amounts of mycotoxins Zearalenone (ZEA) and Deoxynivalenol (DON) in feed ingredients were measured using the HPLC method. Ten Holstein dairy cows received organic adsorbents daily in their diets for four weeks. Milk and blood samples were taken from cows before the start of feeding adsorbent (CTRL), during the feeding period (FP), and one week after removal of adsorbent from the diet (RP). Totally, the amount of measured ZEA and DON toxins in the diet were 389 and 1254.6 ppb, respectively. Feeding of organic adsorbent significantly increased milk production, total serum protein, and albumin compared to CTRL (P&lt;0.01). Also, numerically lower somatic cell count in their milk and a significant decrease (P&lt;0.01) in serum urea were resulted. Among examined blood parameters, the number of WBC and LYM significantly decreased (P&lt;0.01) after feeding with the organic binder in comparison to the control period. Furthermore, except for a significant increase in the level of AST (P&lt;0.05), the other liver function examined parameters were not affected. The consumption of feed containing low-cost organic adsorbent including Lactobacillus bacteria and yeast cell wall can improve the physical condition and health of dairy cows and reduce economic losses in livestock production.

Molybdenum-Induced Apoptosis of Splenocytes and Thymocytes and Changes of Peripheral Blood in Sheep.

To investigate the effects of molybdenum (Mo) on apoptosis of lymphocytes and changes of peripheral blood in sheep, a total of 20 5-month-old healthy female sheep were randomly divided into five groups of 4 and orally administered with water containing Na2MoO4·2H2O (0, 5, 10, 20, and 50mg/kg BW/day) for 28days. Jugular vein blood was taken on the 0th, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th day of Mo treatment, respectively. On the 28th day, the spleen and thymus were removed for observing histopathology and apoptosis-related DNA damage by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and TdT‑mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) staining, respectively. The blood routine indexes were determined by an automatic blood analyzer. Further, the apoptosis of lymphocytes and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of peripheral blood were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results showed that excessive Mo induced apoptosis-related DNA damage in the splenocytes and thymocytes and significantly increased the apoptosis indexes of the splenocytes and thymocytes (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the treatment with excessive Mo significantly decreased the MMP (P < 0.01) and promoted apoptosis in peripheral blood lymphocytes (P < 0.01). And the number of WBC, Lymph, Gran, and RBC and the indexes of HGB and HCT were also significantly decreased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), while RDW was significantly increased by excessive Mo (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). In conclusion, excessive Mo-induced DNA damage and apoptosis of the lymphocytes changed the RBC-related indexes of the peripheral blood in sheep.

Effects of Different Corticosteroid Doses in Elderly Unvaccinated Patients with Severe to Critical COVID-19.

SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce a broad range of clinical symptoms, and the most severe cases are characterized by an uncontrolled inflammatory response with the overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin-1B, and interleukin-6 have become key signatures of severe COVID-19. For this reason, the use of 6 mg of dexamethasone has become a standard of care, although this regime may not be optimal. Even though various glucocorticoid doses have been proposed, it is still unclear which dose should be used to prevent adverse effects while at the same time reducing the inflammatory response. Here, we compared two different doses of corticosteroids in 52 elderly hospitalized patients with severe to critical COVID-19 to assess efficacy and safety. We showed that in patients receiving a higher dose of prednisone, the time to negative swab was significantly longer. Furthermore, although neither dose was correlated with the risk of death, patients receiving the high dose were more likely to have adverse events such as hyperglycemia, leukocytosis, an increase in systemic blood pressure, and others. Finally, the BMI, WBC number, and NLR value were directly related to death. In conclusion, although the optimal glucocorticoid dose is still undefined, our retrospective study supports the absence of beneficial effects in the utilization of higher doses of corticosteroids in elderly patients with severe to critical COVID-19.

Analysis of Clinical Features, Prognostic Characteristics and Gene Mutations of Primary Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients with Myelofibrosis

Objective ：This study aims to analyze the clinical features, prognostic characteristics and gene mutations of the primary myelodysplastic syndrome with myelofibrosis (MDS-MF) patients, ultimately to improve the cognition of MDS-MF. Methods ：From January 1, 2013 to February 1, 2020, 417 newly diagnosed primary MDS patients in the first affiliated hospital of Zhejiang University with bone marrow (BM) biopsy examination were included. They were divided into two groups according to whether BM associated with fibrosis (2005 European Myelofibrosis Network criteria), the MDS-MF group(MF grades 1-3）and the MDS without MF group (MDS-MF0).The clinical features, prognosis characteristics and gene alterations were analyzed between the two groups retrospectively. Results ： ① MF was confirmed in 46.3％（193/417）cases of all the MDS patients, of which 66.3％（128/193）were MF-1 , 25.9％（50/193）were MF-2 and 7.8%(15/193) were MF-3 respectively. The proportion of MDS-EB in MDS-MF group was 48.2%(93/193) and significantly higher than in MDS-MF0 group 35.7%（80/224）,the difference had statistical significance(P=0.008). However, the occurrence of MF does not differ among the MDS subtypes according to the 2016 WHO classification (P=0.342). ② The clinical features of the two groups had statistically significant differences in the higher number of BM blast cells(P=0.006), higher prevalence of death (P=0.031), higher rate of Leukemic transformation (P<0.001), higher level of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the peripheral blood (p<0.001), higher level of β2-microgram in the peripheral blood(p=0.003) and higher level of C-reactive Protein (CRP) in the peripheral blood (P=0.004) in the MDS-MF group than in the MDS-MF0 group. The number of WBC, Hb, PLT and Ferritin at the first diagnosed in our hospital were no difference compared the two groups (All P>0.05). The sex, Age and the IPSS-R score(IPSS-R >3.5 v ≤3.5) were no difference in the two groups (ALL P>0.05). ③Compared with MDS-MF0 group, MDS-MF were significantly associated with worse OS(P=0.035) and worse PFS(p<0.001). The median overall survival was 13.20(0.07-90.70) months in MDS-MF group, and was 23.77(0.53-98.97) months in MDS-MF0 group respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that both OS and PFS of either the MDS-MF1-2 group or the MDS-MF 3 group were also significantly worse than those of the MDS-MF0 group（P＝0.013 and <0.001 respectively）. ④Among all the patients ,337 were finished Next-generation-sequencing (NGS) test, sequencing errors and all known or possible single-nucleotide polymorphisms were excluded. The number of mutations (>2) was more frequently in the MDS-MF, the difference had statical significance(P=0.030). The RNA splicing was more frequently in the MDS-MF than the MDS without MF, the difference also had statical difference(P=0.025). The ratio of U2AF1 mutation occurred in MDS-MF group higher than MDS-MF0 group, the difference had statical significance (P=0.027). There was totally 14.2% (48/337) patients with the mutation of U2AF1, of which 19.7%（29/147) in MDS-MF group and 10.0%（19/190) in MDS-MF0 group. Conclusion: MDS-MF has unique laboratory and clinical characteristics. MF is an independent risk factor for shorter overall survival (OS) and worse progression-free survival (PFS) in primary MDS. Evaluation of MF is very significant for prognosis judgment in primary MDS. The U2AF1 mutation may be a biomarker related to the occurrence and poor prognosis of MDS-MF. However, the mechanism of U2AF1 in MDS-MF patient needs to be further explored. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Physiological response of spotted knifejaw (Oplegnathus punctatus) during transportation in offshore aquaculture net pen

Fish transportation is an important process during offshore fish farming. Plasma cortisol, glucose, hepatic and muscular glycogen, hematological parameters (white blood cell [WBC], red blood cell [RBC], hemoglobin [Hb] hematocrit [Hct]), hepatic anti-oxidant (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], and glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px]), aspartate-aminotransferase (AST) and alanine-aminotransferase (ALT) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, histological alteration, apoptosis and stress-related gene expression (mr, gr1, gr2, hsp70, hsp90a, hsp90b) of spotted knifejaw were investigated during land sea relay transportation to identify the main stressor and illustrate the underlying physiological response. Results showed that handling and transport stress significantly increased plasma cortisol and glucose contents, whereas hepatic glycogen decreased and muscular glycogen remained unchanged throughout the transport. WBC and RBC number, Hb and Hct contents, ALT and AST activities, MDA levels, and hepatic SOD, CAT, GSH-Px activities exhibited similar trends to cortisol under handling and transport stress. Meanwhile, handling and transport stress induced hepatocyte vacuolization, nuclear migration, and hepatocytes apoptosis. Hepatic mr, gr1, gr2, hsp70 and hsp90a mRNA levels were significantly up-regulated under handling and transport stress. Handling stress accounted for 64.29% of the alternation of the above parameters throughout transport process. The aforementioned parameters recovered to normal levels after transportation for 72 h. These results indicated handling, not ship-transport stress was the main stressor of spotted knifejaw during land sea relay transportation, while stress-induced negative effects were alleviated after 72 h.