Serum Parameters Research Articles

Assessment of the toxic effect of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride on the body

Introduction. In modern medical practice, fluoxetine hydrochloride (prozac), referred to the group of highly effective antidepressants, is widely used for the treatment of mental disorders. In Russia, the domestic production of the drug with an economically feasible production technology has been managed. In the synthesis of fluoxetine, the most important stage is the preparation of the main intermediate – 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride. Data on the toxic effect of this substance on the body in the open press, including in the international database PubChem, are not available. The research aim was the study on the toxic effect of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride on the body of laboratory animals. Materials and methods. When studying the toxic effect of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride in experiments on rats, the modes of single inhalation and subacute intragastric methods of exposure were reproduced. The effect of the substance on the condition of animals was assessed by the results of peripheral blood studies, biochemical blood serum parameters, morphological changes in internal organs including liver, kidneys, heart, stomach, pancreas and thyroid glands. Integral parameters were also used. Results. The results of the examination of animals subjected to acute inhalation intoxication and subacute intragastric exposure showed the same type of the changes in the peripheral blood and biochemical profile. The intake of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride did not cause significant changes in the peripheral blood. The biochemical profile of the animals showed an increased activity of AST, ALT and alkaline phosphatase. In the blood serum of the primed rats, an increased content of total cholesterol, triglycerides and urea with a reduced content of protein and bilirubin was found. The impact of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride at the morphological level revealed vascular disorders in all internal organs and moderately severe fatty degeneration of the liver and kidneys. In some parts of the liver, there was small-focus multi-lacular necrosis which covered groups of hepatocytes. Limitations. The investigation is limited to the study on the toxicological characteristics of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride. In accordance with the directive documents on the protection of experimental animals, the number of in vivo experiments is limited which is connected with the dangers of animals and with public ethical views on in vivo experiments. Conclusion. Different methods of intake of 3-methylaminopropiophenone hydrochloride under the conditions of acute inhalation and subacute intragastric experiments lead to a number of disorders of the hepatobiliary system with a negative impact on the common health status of the body. As an additional preventive measure to minimize the risk of acute and chronic intoxication in industries where contact with the substance is possible, including those involved in the synthesis of fluoxetine, an extended list of biochemical blood tests, ultrasound obsservation of the liver as part of periodic medical examinations of workers can be offered.

Isoflavones and probiotics effect on bone calcium and bone cells in rats

Isoflavones and probiotics have shown the therapeutic potential to alter calcium absorption and bone cell metabolism. This study sought to ascertain the effect of isoflavones and probiotics on calcium status and bone health in healthy female rats. Forty-eight adult female Wistar rats were grouped and fed: a standard diet (control); and standard diets with tempeh; soy; daidzein and genistein; Lactobacillus acidophilus; and a combination of daidzein, genistein, and L. acidophilus. The biochemical serum parameters, such as alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, glucose, and triacylglycerol concentrations, were measured, and calcium contents in tissues were determined. After staining the bone with hematoxylin and eosin, the number of osteoblasts, osteocytes, and the percentage of bone marrow adipocytes were counted. Compared with the control group, the soy group showed a significantly lower triacylglycerol concentration. The L. acidophilus group considerably increased the calcium content in the femoral bone. The daidzein and genistein, L. acidophilus, and a combination of daidzein, genistein, and L. acidophilus groups showed significantly lower calcium contents in the heart and kidneys. The daidzein and genistein group significantly enhanced the number of osteoblasts and osteocytes. A substantial inverse correlation was observed between calcium contents in kidneys and osteoblasts. In conclusion, the combination of daidzein, genistein, and L. acidophilus may improve bone calcium concentrations and bone cells. However, no synergistic effect between isoflavones and probiotics was detected in this study.

Valoración del impacto de la tasa libre de litiasis en los resultados de la evaluación metabólica

ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of stone free status on the outcomes of metabolic evaluation in recurrent stone formers after ureteroscopic stone removal. Patients and methodsA total of 78 patients undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones were included and cases were divided into two groups after 4 weeks based on the NCCT findings. While cases in the Group 1 (n=54) was completely stone free, cases in Group 2 (n=24) had residual fragments in the kidney. A full 24-hour urine analysis for relevant stone forming risk factors has been performed after 4 weeks following the fURS procedures in all patients of both groups. Outcomes of metabolic evaluation (24-hour urine and serum) have been comparatively evaluated in both groups. ResultsEvaluation of the preoperative serum and urine stone forming risk factors revelaed no statistical difference in both groups. Comparative evaluation of the 24-hour urinary stone forming risk factors also revealed no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative findings in cases of Group 2 with residual stones. Last but not least, no significant difference was observed between the mean preoperative and postoperative serum variables between two groups. ConclusionsOur results show that in the light of the similar metabolic evaluation outcomes obtained in cases with and without residual fragments, ‘stone free status’ may not be an essential factor to perform a detailed metabolic evaluation (24-hour urine analysis and serum parameters) after endourological stone removal procedures.

A clinical case of the use of a combination of cimicoxib and cyclophosphamide in metronomic mode in neoadjuvant therapy of complex breast carcinoma of a dog

The results of the use of a combination of cimicoxib and cyclophosphamide, in metronomic mode, in neoadjuvant therapy of complex breast carcinoma in dogs are presented. This treatment regimen allowed to achieve stabilization of the process, the volume of the tumor decreased by 60.77% of the indicators of the first day. The regression was 39.23%. According to the results of hematological blood examination, by the 90th day of therapy, the number of leukocytes decreased by 75.96%, lymphocytes by 79.67% and granulocytes by 75.64%, to reference values. The number of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin increased by 49.57% and 53.98%, respectively. There was an increase in the amount of hematocrit by 52.35% compared to the values of the first day before therapy. Biochemical parameters of blood serum by the end of drug therapy were within the reference values. There were no signs of hematological and general toxicity, according to the WHO scale, requiring corrective therapy, dose reduction or withdrawal of drugs.

Mortality, growth, and egg production do not differ between nontransgenic and transgenic female chickens with ubiquitous expression of the 3D8 single chain variable fragment gene

To date, many transgenic (TG) chicken lines have been developed, but few studies have performed a comparative analysis of their mortality, growth, and egg productivity. Previously, we reported the production of 3D8 scFv TG chickens showing antiviral activity. Here, we performed a biometric characterization of TG offspring female chickens. We selected 40 TG and 40 non-TG offspring female chicks among newly hatched chicks produced via artificial insemination of semen from heterotypic 3D8 scFv males into wild-type female chickens. Serum was collected at 14 wk of age, and serum concentrations of biochemical parameters, cytokines, and sex hormones were analyzed. Mortality and growth were monitored daily from 1 to 34 wk, egg productivity was monitored daily from 20 to 34 wk, and the weekly average values were used for analyses. Some serum parameters and cytokines were significantly different between non-TG and TG offspring female chickens. The levels of phosphorus (PHOS), total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLOB), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were significantly higher in non-TG chickens (P < 0.05). The levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were significantly higher in TG chickens (P < 0.05). The levels of insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), interferon-gamma (INF-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and IL-8 were significantly lower in TG chickens (P < 0.05). Despite these differences, the mortality rates, body weight, egg production rates, and egg weight were not significantly different in the experimental groups of non-TG and TG offspring female chickens (P > 0.05). In conclusion, ubiquitous expression of the 3D8 scFv gene in TG offspring female chickens does not affect some biometric characteristics, including mortality, growth, and egg productivity.

Long-Term Consumption of Resistant Starch Induced Changes in Gut Microbiota, Metabolites, and Energy Homeostasis in a High-Fat Diet.

Considering that the study on the impact of the long-term consumption of resistant starch on metabolic syndromes induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) is rare, this investigation designed a 36-week consumption of HFD containing three RS levels (LRS, MRS, and HRS) for measuring changes in serum parameters, liver transcriptome, and gut microbiota. Results indicated that all levels of RS in HFD significantly reduced food intakes and body gain, followed by increased leptin and PYY, but did not show dose-dependence. Furthermore, MRS triggered a greater number of enriched pathways than the other RS groups, whereas no enriched pathway was noted in the HRS group. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio can still predict changes in body weight for long-term observation, and isobutyrate was found to be positively related to Blautia. Importantly, a shifted ratio of Ruminococcaceae/Lactobacillaceae quickly occurred in the early stage of 12 weeks for all groups, but the ratio remained constant in HRS rather than in LRS and MRS, which might indicate both similarity and difference in the regulation of the metabolic syndromes among the three RS interventions.

Short-term arecoline exposure affected the systemic health state of mice, in which gut microbes played an important role

Arecoline is a critical bioactive component in areca nuts with toxicity and pharmacological activities. However, its effects on body health remain unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of arecoline on physiologic and biochemical parameters in mouse serum, liver, brain, and intestine. The effect of arecoline on gut microbiota was investigated based on shotgun metagenomic sequencing. The results showed that arecoline promoted lipid metabolism in mice, manifested as significantly reduced serum TC and TG and liver TC levels and a reduction in abdominal fat accumulation. Arecoline intake significantly modulated the neurotransmitters 5-HT and NE levels in the brain. Notably, arecoline intervention significantly increased serum IL-6 and LPS levels, leading to inflammation in the body. High-dose arecoline significantly reduced liver GSH levels and increased MDA levels, which led to oxidative stress in the liver. Arecoline intake promoted the release of intestinal IL-6 and IL-1β, causing intestinal injury. In addition, we observed a significant response of gut microbiota to arecoline intake, reflecting significant changes in diversity and function of the gut microbes. Further mechanistic exploration suggested that arecoline intake can regulate gut microbes and ultimately affect the host's health. This study provided technical help for the pharmacochemical application and toxicity control of arecoline.

Prevalence and Related Factors for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Obese Students

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs with the pathological accumulation of fat in the liver and is one of the most common liver disorders worldwide among adults and even children. Obesity is a risk factor for NAFLD. Objectives: Considering the increasing prevalence of obesity in Iran and worldwide, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of NAFLD and its related factors in overweight and obese students of schools in Tehran, Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 115 overweight and obese students [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25] with an age range of 7 - 17 years. Eligible individuals were classified into two groups with and without NAFLD. Liver ultrasonography and measurement of serum parameters, including fasting blood sugar, lipid profile, and liver enzymes, were performed. Next, the demographic and anthropometric characteristics were compared between the two groups. Results: Out of 115 studied students, 71 subjects were boys (61.7%). The results showed that the mean BMI in patients with fatty liver was significantly higher than in individuals without fatty liver (P = 0.03). According to our findings, the mean total cholesterol in NAFLD patients was significantly higher than in the group without NAFLD (P = 0.008). The univariate logistic regression model results for measuring factors related to fatty liver in students showed a significant positive correlation between male gender, BMI, total cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase. Conclusions: NAFLD is a substantial problem in school children and correlates with elevated BMI. Therefore, the measurement of BMI can be used as a useful predictor and screening tool for NAFLD in school children.

Hepatic Pin1 Expression, Particularly in Nuclei, Is Increased in NASH Patients in Accordance with Evidence of the Role of Pin1 in Lipid Accumulation Shown in Hepatoma Cell Lines.

Our previous studies using rodent models have suggested an essential role for Pin1 in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In addition, interestingly, serum Pin1 elevation has been reported in NASH patients. However, no studies have as yet examined the Pin1 expression level in human NASH livers. To clarify this issue, we investigated the expression level and subcellular distribution of Pin1 in liver specimens obtained using needle-biopsy samples from patients with NASH and healthy liver donors. Immunostaining using anti-Pin1 antibody revealed the Pin1 expression level to be significantly higher, particularly in nuclei, in the livers of NASH patients than those of healthy donors. In the samples from patients with NASH, the amount of nuclear Pin1 was revealed to be negatively related to serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), while tendencies to be associated with other serum parameters such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and platelet number were noted but did not reach statistical significance. Such unclear results and the lack of a significant relationship might well be attributable to our small number of NASH liver samples (n = 8). Moreover, in vitro, it was shown that addition of free fatty acids to medium induced lipid accumulation in human hepatoma HepG2 and Huh7 cells, accompanied with marked increases in nuclear Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase NIMA-interacting 1 (Pin1), in accordance with the aforementioned observations in human NASH livers. In contrast, suppression of Pin1 gene expression using siRNAs attenuated the free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation in Huh7 cells. Taken together, these observations strongly suggest that increased expression of Pin1, particularly in hepatic nuclei, contributes to the pathogenesis of NASH with lipid accumulation.

“Cerastes snake venom as a promising approach in the management of complete Freund's adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats: Involvement of RANKL and JAK/STAT pathway”

Ethnopharmacological relevanceCerastes is a snake found mainly in the Egyptian desert. Many studies were performed to explain the possible snake venom's pharmacological therapeutic effect in different autoimmune diseases. One of the most common auto-immune diseases is rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by a high release of pro-inflammatory and immune-modulatory cytokines. The reduction of these markers can indicate how effective is the administered drug. Aim of the studyThis study aims to explore the potential pharmacological effects of cerastes venom in experimentally-induced RA in rats using Complete Freund's adjuvant - via different mechanisms - by assessing various tissue and serum parameters. Materials and methodsThe rats were assigned to negative control group, cerastes control group, positive control group, dexamethasone-treated group, infliximab-treated group, and cerastes-treated group. The study ended on the 20th day when serum and tissue samples were prepared for further evaluation of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, rheumatoid factor, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells as well as relative expression of phosphorylated Janus-kinase, phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription, nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2, and receptor activator of nuclear factor Kappa-B ligand. In addition, a histopathological examination of different groups' knees joints, and spleen was done. ResultsThe results showed a significant improvement of arthritis induced in the cerastes-treated group in contrast to the positive control group in all assessed parameters. In addition, significant improvement of arthritis was observed in the histopathological examination of different groups' knees joints, and spleen. ConclusionThese results revealed that cerastes snake venom has potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects and can be used in the management of arthritis.

Influence of Processed Cassava Peel-leaf Blend as Replacement for Maize on Growth Performance and Serum Parameters of Growing Pigs

Background: The use of alternative feedstuff like cassava peel and leaf in pig production is of great concern due to reduced nutrient availability caused by high fibre and antinutritional constituent. The current study investigated the effect of dietary inclusion of differently processed cassava peel-leaf blend (CPLB) on growth and blood parameters of growing pigs. Methods: CPLB (Cassava peel: Cassava leaf; 5:1) was included in pigs diet in a feeding trial for 16 wks. The CPLB replaced maize at 100%. 24 pigs of mean weight range (20-22 kg) were assigned on a weight equalization basis to four dietary treatments having six replicates with one pig per replicate. A standard corn soya-based diet (control), Unfermented CPLB (UCPLB), water fermented CPLB (WCPLB) and microbial fermented CPLB (MCPLB) using Aspergillus tamarii as inoculum was formulated. Growth response was measured and serum analysis was carried out at the end of the 8th and 16th week. Result: There was no significant (p greater than 0.05) effect on growth performance at the end of the 8th and 16th weeks. Dietary inclusion of MCPLB resulted in higher (p less than 0.05) cholesterol (144.30 mmol/L) in pigs than those fed control diet (97.20 mm/L) at the end of 8th week. Pigs fed diet containing UCPLB had reduced (p less than 0.05) serum creatinine (0.58 mg/dl) at the end of 16th week. In conclusion, CPLB based diet irrespective of processing method did not significantly affect growth performance and without negative effect on blood serum parameters.

Evaluating the in-vivo effects of olive oil, soya bean oil, and vitamins against oxidized ghee toxicity.

The aim of this study was to examine the protective role of various lipids (olive and soya oil) and vitamin (E and C) against the toxicity of thermally oxidized ghee in rabbits. Vanaspati ghee was thermally oxidized on a hot plate at 100°C for ten consecutive hours, and the oxidized ghee was stored in a refrigerator at -20°C until administration. Thirty male rabbits were purchased as experimental animals at a local market and were divided into ten corresponding groups of three based on their body weight. The blood samples of 5 ml were collected on day 0, 7, and 14 of the experiment for the analysis of hematological and biochemical serum parameters. We observed that oxidized ghee significantly elevated ALT level by affecting liver hepatocytes. Furthermore, vitamin E rapidly decreased the ALT levels compared to vitamin C and other oils. The oxidized ghee caused a significant increase in cholesterol compared to the other groups. Vitamin E and C showed the best antioxidant activity and decreased cholesterol levels to normal. Histopathological examinations of the normal rabbits' liver sections revealed no significant histological abnormality. The liver of the rabbits fed with oxidized ghee had an intact lobular architecture but the portal tracts showed inflammation and mild fibrosis, the bile ducts showed proliferation, and the hepatocytes showed feathery degeneration. In the liver sections from the groups fed with oxidized ghee and different doses of olive oil inflammation in portal tracts and large vacuoles in the hepatocytes were observed. The group fed with oxidized ghee and vitamin E had intact lobular architecture with no significant histological abnormality in portal tracts but fatty changes were present in the hepatocytes. These findings support the antioxidant activity of vitamins C and E as they reduced liver infection caused by oxidized ghee. It was concluded that oxidized ghee was highly toxic and not safe for consumption. The present study indicated that soya bean oil and vitamin E were more effective in protecting against the toxicity of thermally oxidized ghee than olive oil and vitamin C.

Why is childhood urolithiasis increasing? Etiology, diagnosis and management: a single-center experience.

Globally, urolithiasis is becoming more and more common among children. We aimed to determine the etiology, and the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in patients with urolithiasis. This was a retrospective study which included all patients (aged 1month-18years) admitted to the pediatric nephrology clinic in Elazığ Fethi Sekin City Hospital with urolithiasis between November 2019 and 2021. Only patients whose diagnosis of urolithiasis was confirmed by urinary ultrasonography were included in the study, while patients with chronic diseases (neurological diseases such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, chronic bowel diseases, etc.) predisposing to kidney stone formation were not. Demographic characteristics, serum and urine biochemical parameters, urine metabolic and kidney stone metabolic and chemical analyses, urinary tract ultrasonography findings and treatment modalities were collected. One hundred ninety-seven patients (91 female and 106 male) were included in the study. Hypervitaminosis D was detected in 4 (2%) patients, suppressed parathyroid hormone in 12 (6%) and hypercalcemia in 27 (14%) patients. Metabolic screening showed hypercalciuria in 69 (35%) patients, hypocitraturia in 39 (20%), hyperoxaluria in 15 (8%) and cystinuria in 6 (3%) patients. Eighty three (42%) patients had a positive family history for kidney stones. One hundred eighteen (60%) patients received potassium citrate treatment, 71 (36%) were given hydration and diet recommendations without medical treatment, 6 (3%) received tiopronin treatment, and 2 (1%) patients were treated surgically. Our study suggests that Vitamin D supplementation at doses higher than 400IU/day may be a risk factor for kidney stonesin children. We observed that mothers tend not to give water to infants who are breastfed or formula-fed in the first year of life. K-citrate treatment can be a good option for prevention and dissolution of stones by alkalinization.

EXPERIMENTAL SUBSTANTIATION OF THE USE OF THERAPEUTIC PROPHYLACTIC PASTE FOR PREVENTION OF COMPLICATIONS DURING ODONTOPREPARATION OF VITAL TEETH

Increased tooth sensitivity after preparation for nonremovable orthopedic structures is a common problem in orthopedic dentistry. In many cases, it can contribute to morphofunctional changes in the hard tissues of the tooth and lead to various complications, with pulpitis and periodontitis being the most common. This article presents the results of a study of rat blood serum after experimental tooth trauma. An analysis of pulp inflammation markers was conducted, which demonstrated that the proposed therapeutic complex significantly reduces inflammatory reactions in the tooth pulp, increases nonspecific resistance and antioxidant status of the pulp in animals following odontopreparation. The aim of our study. Experimental justification for the use of a complex of hyaluronic acid, bioflavonoids, and minerals to enhance the effectiveness of preventing complications after dental preparation for non-removable orthopedic structures. Investigate changes in pulp inflammation markers in the blood serum of experimental animals during dental preparation. Study the effect of the proposed complex on biochemical indicators in the blood serum of experimental animals. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on 48 sexually mature male Wistar rats weighing 220-270 g and aged 6-7 months. The animals were divided into 3 groups. The duration of the experiment was 21 days, after which the rats were euthanized under thiopental anesthesia (20 mg/kg) by bloodletting from the heart. Blood was collected to obtain serum. Serum catalase activity, alkaline phosphatase ALP, α2-macroglobulin, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were determined. Results of the study and their discussion. The study of alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase activity in the intact groups taken for analysis on the 7th and 21st day showed that these indicators were within the normal range and corresponded to data in the blood of rats presented in the literature sources. Conclusions. During the preparation of tooth crowns in experimental animals, pronounced inflammatory reactions develop in the traumatized pulp, which occur against the background of activation of the processes of oxidative stress (OS) with a characteristic phase course, accompanied by a significant increase in the concentration of inflammation markers in the blood serum. The proposed therapeutic and prophylactic complex effectively prevents established disturbances in the biochemical parameters of the blood serum of laboratory animals and is effective in preventing and preventing inflammatory processes in the pulp.

Cerebrospinal fluid B-cell activating factor levels as a novel biomarker in patients with neurosarcoidosis

ObjectivesNeurosarcoidosis (NS) is a severe complication of sarcoidosis. Patients with NS often have poor outcomes. To improve both the quality of life and prognosis in patients with NS, accurate and reliable methods for early diagnosis and determining the efficacy of treatment are needed. This study aims to investigate B-cell-activating factor of the tumor necrosis factor family (BAFF) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and elucidate the relationship between CSF BAFF levels and various parameters of NS. MethodsWe studied 20 patients with NS and 14 control subjects. We measured CSF BAFF levels in all subjects and investigated the relationship with clinical findings, serum and CSF measures, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. ResultsCSF BAFF levels were significantly increased in patients with NS compared with controls (median 0.089 vs 0.04 ng/mL, p = 0.0005). CSF BAFF values were correlated with CSF findings—cell count, protein, angiotensin-converting enzyme, lysozyme, soluble interleukin-2 receptor, and immunoglobulin G—but not with serum parameters. CSF BAFF levels were especially higher in patients with abnormal intraparenchymal lesions of the brain and abnormal spinal MRI findings. CSF BAFF levels decreased significantly after immunosuppressive therapy. ConclusionCSF BAFF may aid the quantitative evaluation of NS and may serve as a biomarker for this disease.

Cirrhotic Cardiomyopathy Following Bile Duct Ligation in Rats-A Matter of Time?

Cirrhotic patients often suffer from cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM). Previous animal models of CCM were inconsistent concerning the time and mechanism of injury; thus, the temporal dynamics and cardiac vulnerability were studied in more detail. Rats underwent bile duct ligation (BDL) and a second surgery 28 days later. Cardiac function was assessed by conductance catheter and echocardiography. Histology, gene expression, and serum parameters were analyzed. A chronotropic incompetence (Pd31 < 0.001) and impaired contractility at rest and a reduced contractile reserve (Pd31 = 0.03, Pdob-d31 < 0.001) were seen 31 days after BDL with increased creatine (Pd35, Pd42, and Pd56 < 0.05) and transaminases (Pd31 < 0.001). A total of 56 days after BDL, myocardial fibrosis was seen (Pd56 < 0.001) accompanied by macrophage infiltration (CD68: Pgroup < 0.001) and systemic inflammation (TNFα: Pgroup < 0.001, white blood cell count: Pgroup < 0.001). Myocardial expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α) was increased after 31 (Pd31 < 0.001) and decreased after 42 (Pd42 < 0.001) and 56 days (Pd56 < 0.001). Caspase-3 expression was increased 31 and 56 days after BDL (Pd31 = 0.005; Pd56 = 0.005). Structural changes in the myocardium were seen after 8 weeks. After the second surgery (second hit), transient myocardial insufficiency with secondary organ dysfunction was seen, characterized by reduced contractility and contractile reserve.

Metabolite profiling and Ameliorative effect of quince (Cydonia oblonga) leaves against doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats

Quince (Cydonia oblonga) leaves are traditionally reported to alleviate the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study envisaged to explore the in vitro and in vivo phytochemical and cardio protective potential of quince extract respectively. Different solvent extracts (Aqueous, Ethanolic, Hydroethanolic, Methanolic) of quince leaf obtained via two different extraction methods (Ultrasonication and Reflux) were evaluated for the phytochemical and antioxidant analysis. Among all the extracts, quince ethanolic extract, extracted via sonication was found to have the maximum phenolics (39.89 ± 0.67 mg GAE/g DW), flavonoids (21.51 ± 1.0 mgRE/g DW) and an anti-oxidant potential 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl radical (DPPH) with IC50 value of 168.88 ± 2.24 μg/ml. The High-performance thin layer chromatograph (HPTLC) and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) analysis confirmed the presence of bio active compounds. Furthermore, the in vivo activity was ascertained against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced cardio toxicity in rats fed orally with the extract at 160 and 320 mg/kg body weight. The pre-treated groups significantly assuaged the changes induced by DOX in the electrocardiogram (ECG). Additionally, it mitigated the elevation in the blood serum parameters; aspartate transaminase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine kinase-MB (CK- MB) and also repressed glutathione (GSH) depletion and rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) level induced by DOX. Furthermore, improvement in histopathological changes of the heart tissue concomitant to DOX induced toxicity was also observed such as, reduced degeneration, necrosis, inflammation and apoptosis. Thus, it could be concluded that cardioprotective activity of quince extract accredited to the occurrence of phytoconstituents prevented the DOX induced cardiotoxicity and helped to reinstate the cardiac damage in rats.

The Effect of Different Zinc Sources on Biochemical Parameters, Intestinal Morphology, Carcass Characteristics and Performance in Finishing Lambs.

To investigate the effect of different sources of zinc supplements on blood serum parameters, nutrient digestibility, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and intestinal morphology, 18 male Zandi lambs (with initial body weight of 31 ± 1.2kg and 120 ± 8days old) were divided into three groups, six animals each in a completely random design. Experimental treatments include (1) control treatment of basal diet without zinc supplementation, (2) basal diet with 40mg/kg of zinc supplementation from zinc sulfate source, and (3) basal diet with 40mg/kg of zinc supplementation with origin it was organic (Zn-peptide). All lambs were kept in individual pens with cemented floor and provision of individual feeding and watering. Mean daily weight gain increased with zinc supplementation (P < 0.05), but feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not affected by zinc supplementation in the diet. Zinc supplementation increased the apparent digestibility of the dry matter (P < 0.05), but the digestibility of dietary fat, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were not affected by zinc supplementation. In this experiment, the addition of organic and inorganic supplements to the diet of fattening lambs had no significant effect on serum triglyceride, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and glucose concentrations, and carcass traits. The concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzyme in the zinc sulfate group was significantly higher than the control and organic zinc groups (P < 0.05). Concentrations of blood urea nitrogen were lower in zinc fed lambs, compared to control (P ≤ 0.05). The villi width in the duodenum was higher in the zinc supplementation treatments (P < 0.05). Also, in the ileum section, the height of the villi in the treatment of zinc sulfate supplement was higher, compared to the complement and control (P < 0.05). The results of this study showed that Zn supplementation, regardless of its source, improved growth performance in fattening lambs. However, no effect was observed on feed intake and efficiency, carcass traits, and blood parameters.

Effects of dietary α-tocopherol acetate and pomegranate peel extract on growth performance and antioxidative potential and lipid oxidation of meat of broiler

The study compared the effects of dietary supplementation of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) alone or in combination with α-tocopherol acetate (TA) on the performance, carcass traits, serum and meat parameters of broilers. The diets included: CONT: a control diet containing 50 mg/kg TA and 4 % flaxseed oil; TA200: the diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg TA to the control diet; PPE100, PPE200 and TA100+PPE100: the diets supplemented with 100 and 200 mg/kg PPE and 100 mg/kg TA+100 mg/kg PPE to the CONT diet. The dietary treatments had no significant effect on growth performance, internal organ weights and carcass yields. The TA200, PPE100, PPE200 and TA100+PPE100 diets significantly reduced the levels of lipid hydroperoxide and total oxidant and significantly increased the antioxidant level of the serum of broilers. The TA200, PPE100, PPE200 and TA100+PPE100 diets significantly increased the contents of total polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-6 FAs and omega-3 FAs, total phenolic contents, DPPH radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing power, and significantly decreased the concentrations of total saturated fatty acids, total monounsaturated fatty acids, the omega-6:omega-3 ratio and the MDA value of the thigh meat and breast meat compared to the CONT diet. In conclusion, the antioxidant potential and lipid oxidation stability of broiler meat may be improved by supplementing the diet with TA or PPE alone or in combination. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of TA and PPE in combination in the diet was more strong in refrigerated broiler meat enriched with omega-3 PUFAs than that of TA alone.

Liver lipidomics analysis reveals the anti-obesity and lipid-lowering effects of gypnosides from heat-processed Gynostemma pentaphyllum in high-fat diet fed mice

BackgroundIn traditional Chinese medicine, Gynostemma pentaphyllum (G. pentaphyllum) is widely used to treat conditions associated with hyperlipidemia, and its therapeutic potential has been demonstrated in numerous studies. However, the mechanism of lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemic by G. pentaphyllum, especially heat-processed G. pentaphyllum is not yet clear. PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic mechanism of gypenosides from heat-processed G. pentaphyllum (HGyp) in hyperlipidemic mice by means of a lipidomics. MethodsThe content of the major components of HGyp was determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS). An animal model of hyperlipidaemia was constructed using C57BL/6J mice fed with high-fat diet. HGyp was also administered at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, all for 12 weeks. Serum parameters were measured, histological sections were prepared and liver lipidome analysis using UPLC-MS coupled with multivariate statistical analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were used to analyze the genes and proteins associated with lipid lowering in HGyp. ResultsHGyp reduced body weight, serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and hepatic lipid accumulation in hyperlipidemic obese mice. To explore specific changes in lipid metabolism in relation to HGyp administration, lipid analysis of the liver was performed. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) score plots showed that HGyp altered lipid metabolism in HFD mice. In particular, fatty acids (FA), triglycerides (DG), TG and ceramides (CER) were significantly altered. Eleven lipids were identified as potential lipid biomarkers, namely TG (18:2/20:5/18:2), TG (18:2/18:3/20:4), DG (18:3/20:0/0:0), Cer (d18:1/19:0), Cer (d16:1/23:0), Ceramide (d18:1/9Z-18:1), PS (19:0/18:3), PS (20:2/0:0), LysoPC (22:5), LysoPE (0:0/18:0), PE (24:0/16:1). Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis showed that these metabolic improvements played a role by down-regulating genes and proteins related to fat production (SREBP1, ACC1, SCD1), up-regulating genes and proteins related to lipid oxidation (CPTA1, PPARα) and lipid transport decomposition in the bile acid pathway (LXRα, PPARγ, FXR, BSEP). ConclusionThe lipid-lowering effect of gypenosides from heat-processed G. pentaphyllum is regulate lipid homeostasis and metabolism.