Selected Serum Parameters Research Articles

A predictive and prognostic model for surgical outcome and prognosis in ovarian cancer computed by clinico-pathological and serological parameters (CA125, HE4, mesothelin).

Numerous prognostic models have been proposed for ovarian cancer, extending from single serological factors to complex gene-expression signatures. Nonetheless, these models have not been routinely translated into clinical practice. We constructed a robust and readily calculable model for predicting surgical outcome and prognosis of ovarian cancer patients by exploiting commonly available clinico-pathological factors and three selected serum parameters. Serum CA125, human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) and mesothelin (MSL) were quantified by Lumipulse® G chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay (Fujirebio) in a total of 342 serum samples from 190 ovarian cancer patients, including 152 paired pre- and post-operative samples. Detection of pre-operative HE4 and CA125 was the optimal marker combination for blood-based prediction of surgical outcome (AUC=0.86). We constructed a prognostic model, computed by serum levels of pre-operative CA125, post-operative HE4, post-operative MSL and surgical outcome. Prognostic performance of our model was superior to any of these parameters alone and was independent from BRCA1/2 mutational status. We subsequently transformed our model into a prognostic risk index, stratifying patients as "lower risk" or "higher risk". In "higher risk" patients, relapse or death was predicted with an AUC of 0.89 and they had a significantly shorter progression free survival (HR: 9.74; 95 % CI: 5.95-15.93; p<0.0001) and overall survival (HR: 5.62; 95 % CI: 3.16-9.99; p<0.0001) compared to "lower risk" patients. We present a robust predictive/prognostic model for ovarian cancer, which could readily be implemented into routine diagnostics in order to identify ovarian cancer patients at high risk of recurrence.

Influence of two defaunating agents and defaunation intervals on milk profile and selected serum parameters in lactating dairy goats in Egypt

Influence of two defaunating agents and defaunation intervals on milk profile and selected serum parameters in lactating dairy goats in Egypt

The succession of fecal bacterial community and its correlation with the changes of serum immune indicators in lambs from birth to 4 months

Early bacterial colonization and succession within the gastrointestinal tract have been suggested to be crucial in the development of host immunity. In this study, we have investigated the changes in live weight and concentrations of selected serum parameters in relation to their fecal bacterial communities as determined by high throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene over the same period in lambs. The results showed that lambs’ growth performance, the serum parameters, fecal bacterial community and fecal bacterial functions were all affected (P<0.05) by age of the lambs. Similarity within age groups of fecal microbiota was lower in the preweaning period and increased sharply (P<0.05) after weaning at 60 days. The similarity between the samples collected from birth to 90 days of age and those collected at 120 days of age, increased (P<0.05) sharply after 30 days of age. Some age-associated changes in microbial genera were correlated with the changes in concentrations of immune indicators, including negative (P<0.05) correlations between the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae UCG-010, Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group, Ruminococcaceae UCG-005, Ruminococcaceae UCG-009, Ruminococcaceae UCG-013, Ruminiclostridium 6, Ruminococcaceae UCG-008, and Oscillibacter with serum concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), D-lactate dehydrogenase (DLA), immunoglobulin (IgA, IgM, and IgG), and cytokines (interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-12, and IL-17), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and the relative abundance of these genera increased from 45 days of age. In conclusion, these results suggested that the age-related abundances of particular genera were correlated with serum markers of immunity in lambs, and there might be a critical window in the period from birth to 45 days of age which provide an opportunity for potential manipulation of the fecal microbial ecosystems to enhance immune function.

Effects of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Stress Responses of Bester and Bester ♀ × Beluga ♂ Juveniles in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems.

Simple SummaryThe disappearance of many wild sturgeon populations from natural waters and the high demand for sturgeon products (meat and caviar) have led to increased aquacultural production of sturgeons. The development of recirculating aquaculture systems requires the optimization of rearing technologies so that high stocking densities have a minimal impact on fish health. Due to the ease with which sturgeons hybridize, the optimization of sturgeon aquaculture technologies involves the identification of hybrid lines with high technological performance and high stress resistance. One of the best known hybrids is that between the beluga and the sterlet (bester). The present study aims to evaluate the hybrid obtained by crossing the bester (female) with the beluga (male) as a new candidate for the recirculating aquaculture systems. The results show better performance and better density adaptation of the bester × beluga hybrid compared with the bester hybrid. However, at higher stocking densities, a negative impact on growth performance and physiological response was observed.The study aimed to compare the growth performance and physiological responses of bester (B) and backcrossed bester ♀ × beluga ♂ (BB) in response to crowding stress under different stocking densities, as well as to establish a threshold stocking density for rearing BB in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) without welfare impairment. For this purpose, in the first trial (T1), B (181.15 ± 21.21 g) and BB fingerlings (181.98 ± 28.65 g) were reared in two stocking densities of 2 kg/m2 and 4 kg/m2 in fiberglass tanks (1 m3) for 6 weeks. In a parallel trial (T2), the BB hybrids (335.24 ± 39.30 g) were kept in four initial stocking densities, ranging from 5 kg/m2 to 12 kg/m2. The results of T1 revealed better growth indices (i.e., final mean weight, weight gain, specific growth rate) at lower stocking densities for both hybrids; however, in terms of growth performance, the BB hybrid showed better results when compared with the B hybrid. BB hybrids registered significantly (p < 0.05) lower serum cortisol and MDA and higher lysozyme than B hybrids, showing higher tolerance to crowding stress. Nevertheless, at higher densities, selected serum parameters (i.e., hematological indices, cortisol, glucose, protein, malondialdehyde, lysozyme) and growth performance indices used to evaluate the hybrids indicate that high stocking density could affect the growth and welfare of BB hybrids, and that the selected serum parameters could be used as good indicators for chronic stress caused by overcrowding conditions.

Synthesis, Characterization and Biocompatibility of Holmium Zirconate/Zinc Sulphide Nanocomposite in Albino Mice in a Gender Specific Manner

Aim of this study was to report the biocompatibility of Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (HO2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite in albino mice. Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (Ho2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite were synthesized by, normal microemulsion, chemical co-precipitation and two step synthesis method, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) for the confirmation of phase while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used morphological analysis. The composition and the particle size distribution were confirmed by energy dispersive spectroscopy and particle size analysis respectively. Seven week old mice were divided into two groups in a gender specific manner: control group that were intraperitoneally injected with saline solution and treated group were administered with 50 mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide nanocomposite for 22 days. A series of neurological tests, blood cell count, selected serum parameters and biomarkers of oxidative stress were analysed in vital organs of both treatments. It was observed that nanocomposite treated female mice remained mobile (P = 0.05) for longer time while both male (P = 0.03) and female (P = 0.02) mice had more rotations than saline treated mice during open field test. Nanocomposite treated male had reduced stretch attend reflex during light dark box test. Blood and serum parameters remained unaffected (P ˃ 0.05) when compared between nanocomposite treated and untreated mice of both genders. Malondialdehyde concentration was significantly elevated (P = 0.04) in liver of male while superoxide dismutase concentrations were significantly reduced (P = 0.05) in brain of female albino mice treated with nanocomposite than their respective control groups.

Synthesis, Characterization and Biocompatibility of Holmium Zirconate/Zinc Sulphide Nanocomposite in Albino Mice in a Gender Specific Manner

Aim of this study was to report the biocompatibility of Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (HO2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite in albino mice. Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (Ho2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite were synthesized by, normal microemulsion, chemical co-precipitation and two step synthesis method, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) for the confirmation of phase while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used morphological analysis. The composition and the particle size distribution were confirmed by energy dispersive spectroscopy and particle size analysis respectively. Seven week old mice were divided into two groups in a gender specific manner: control group that were intraperitoneally injected with saline solution and treated group were administered with 50 mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide nanocomposite for 22 days. A series of neurological tests, blood cell count, selected serum parameters and biomarkers of oxidative stress were analysed in vital organs of both treatments. It was observed that nanocomposite treated female mice remained mobile (P = 0.05) for longer time while both male (P = 0.03) and female (P = 0.02) mice had more rotations than saline treated mice during open field test. Nanocomposite treated male had reduced stretch attend reflex during light dark box test. Blood and serum parameters remained unaffected (P ˃ 0.05) when compared between nanocomposite treated and untreated mice of both genders. Malondialdehyde concentration was significantly elevated (P = 0.04) in liver of male while superoxide dismutase concentrations were significantly reduced (P = 0.05) in brain of female albino mice treated with nanocomposite than their respective control groups.

Synthesis, Characterization and Biocompatibility of Holmium Zirconate/Zinc Sulphide Nanocomposite in Albino Mice in a Gender Specific Manner

Aim of this study was to report the biocompatibility of Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (HO2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite in albino mice. Holmium zirconate, zinc sulphide and holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide (Ho2Zr2O7/ZnS) nanocomposite were synthesized by, normal microemulsion, chemical co-precipitation and two step synthesis method, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) for the confirmation of phase while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used morphological analysis. The composition and the particle size distribution were confirmed by energy dispersive spectroscopy and particle size analysis respectively. Seven week old mice were divided into two groups in a gender specific manner: control group that were intraperitoneally injected with saline solution and treated group were administered with 50 mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Holmium zirconate/zinc sulphide nanocomposite for 22 days. A series of neurological tests, blood cell count, selected serum parameters and biomarkers of oxidative stress were analysed in vital organs of both treatments. It was observed that nanocomposite treated female mice remained mobile (P = 0.05) for longer time while both male (P = 0.03) and female (P = 0.02) mice had more rotations than saline treated mice during open field test. Nanocomposite treated male had reduced stretch attend reflex during light dark box test. Blood and serum parameters remained unaffected (P ˃ 0.05) when compared between nanocomposite treated and untreated mice of both genders. Malondialdehyde concentration was significantly elevated (P = 0.04) in liver of male while superoxide dismutase concentrations were significantly reduced (P = 0.05) in brain of female albino mice treated with nanocomposite than their respective control groups.

Effect of ghrelin on growth performance, carcass quality, and selected serum parameters in broiler chickens

The aim of present study was to investigate the short-term and long-term effect of the peripheral administration of ghrelin on the growth performance (feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio), carcass quality, and selected serum biochemical (glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and total protein) and hormonal (T 3 , T 4 , and corticostrone) indices in broiler chickens. 240 one-day-old broiler chickens were selected, and divided into three treatment groups (control and two experimental groups). On day-21 of the experimental rearing period, three experimental groups were subjected to peripheral ghrelin administration. The control consisted of birds without any administration of peptide or solution, groups G50 and G100; included birds with Ip-injection of 50 and 100 (ng/100g BW) ghrelin peptide, respectively. The peripheral administration of exogenous ghrelin during the rearing period did not affect feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and carcass characteristics in broiler chickens. In short-term samples taken 12h after ghrelin infusion, the glucose level was increased in ghrelin-treated groups (162 and 151 mg/dl in compared with 117 mg/dl in control; P< 0.01) and there were significant declines for TC, triglyceride, and TP in the ghrelin-treated groups (G50 and G100) compared with the control. Similarly, with short-term samples, long-term glucose level was at a greater level in G50 and G100 (182 and 200.66 mg/dl in compared with control: 133.60 mg/dl; P< 0.01). A significant decline was observed for TC and triglyceride in the ghrelin-treated groups (P<0.05). There is no significant change between groups for TP in both samples. There was a significant increase for T4 in ghrelin-treated groups (G50 and G100) compared with the control (4.55 and 4.57 ng/ml in compared with 4.20 ng/ml; P< 0.05) in long-term. In conclusion, the peripheral administration of ghrelin in broiler chickens, during the commercial rearing period did not affect the overall growth performance, carcass quality and feed conversion ratio. The infusion of exogenous ghrelin may increase the levels of serum glucose, decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride, and T 4 is increased in the long-term (and not in the short-term or 12h after administration). The effect of endogenous chicken ghrelin needs further studies.

Effect of ghrelin peripheral administration on growth performance, carcass quality, and selected serum parameters in broiler chickens

The aim of present study was to investigate the short-term and long-term effect of the peripheral administration of ghrelin on the growth performance (feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio), carcass quality, and selected serum biochemical (glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, and total protein) and hormonal (T3, T4, and corticostrone) indices in broiler chickens. 240 one-day-old broiler chickens were selected, and allocated into three treatment groups (control and two experimental groups). On day-21 of the rearing period, ghrelin was peripherally administrated to three experimental groups. The control group contained birds without any administration of peptide or solution, groups G50 and G100; included birds with Ip-injection of 50 and 100 (ng/100g BW) ghrelin peptide, respectively. The peripheral administration of exogenous ghrelin did not affect feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and carcass characteristics in broiler chickens. In short-term samples taken 12h after ghrelin infusion, the glucose level was increased in ghrelin-treated groups (162 and 151 mg/dl in G50 and G100 compared with 117 mg/dl in control; P&lt; 0.01) and there were significant declines for TC, triglyceride, and TP in the ghrelin-treated groups (G50 and G100) compared with the control. In addition, long-term glucose level has a greater value in G50 and G100 (182 and 200.66 mg/dl) compared with control (133.60 mg/dl) group (P&lt; 0.01). A significant decline was also observed for TC and triglyceride content in the ghrelin-treated groups (P&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference among groups for TP in short-term and long-term samples. There was a significant increase for T4 in ghrelin-treated groups (G50 and G100) compared with the control (4.55 and 4.57 ng/ml vs 4.20 ng/ml respectively; P&lt; 0.05) in long-term samples. In conclusion, the peripheral administration of ghrelin in broiler chickens, during the commercial rearing period did not affect the overall growth performance, carcass quality and feed conversion ratio. The infusion of exogenous ghrelin may increase the levels of serum glucose, decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride, and T4 levels are increased in the long-term (and not in the short-term or 12h after administration).

English

English

Impact of Transfaunation of Rumen Ciliate Cultures on Physical Examination, Selected Serum Parameters and Milk Profile in Defaunated Lactating Dairy Goats

Rumen ciliates still have mysterious secrets and influences in ruminants. This study investigated the effect of transfaunation of pure and mixed cultures of rumen ciliates on physical clinical examination, selected serum parameters and milk profile in defaunated lactating dairy goats. A number of 8 Baladi native breed goats were randomly classified into two groups each one containing 4 goats. Pure culture group was transfaunated with 6 ml of pure culture of Holotricha spp., while mixed culture group was transfaunated with 6 ml of mixed culture of 81.85% Holotricha and 18.15% Ophryoscolex spp. once weekly for three consecutive weeks, after defaunation of both groups using 30 ml of 8% SLS for two consecutive days. Serum and milk samples were collected weekly for three successive weeks to study effect of type of ciliate culture, duration of transfaunation and their interaction. Results revealed that transfaunation of pure and mixed cultures of rumen ciliates had no effect on physical examination with minimal non-significant improvement of calcium, inorganic phosphorous, total protein and globulin in serum of defaunated goats. Transfaunation of pure or mixed cultures of rumen ciliates within three weeks could not improve significantly decreased milk fat % of defaunated goats without any effect on other measured milk profile parameters. It is concluded that further investigations on transfaunation without prior defaunation should be performed using different pure and mixed cultures of rumen ciliates for therapeutic and productive purposes.

Relationship between expression pattern of vitamin D receptor, 1 alpha-hydroxylase enzyme, and chemokine RANTES genes and selected serum parameters during transition period in Holstein dairy cows.

ObjectivesThe objective of the present study was to evaluate the pattern of genetic expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR), 1 alpha-hydroxylase (1α-OHase) enzyme and chemokine regulated on activation normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) in peripheral blood of Holstein dairy cows during transition period.MethodsBlood samples were collected from 16 Holstein dairy cows at 3 weeks prior expected date of delivery (EDD), at the day of parturition, and 3 weeks post-partum for assessment of expression profile of studied genes using real-time PCR and measurement of glucose, ionized calcium (Ca), parathyroid hormone (PTH), inorganic phosphorous (P), sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl), and magnesium (Mg) levels.ResultsCompared with 3 weeks prior EDD, VDR gene expression decreased significantly at the day of parturition then increased significantly at 3 weeks post-partum. The genetic expression of 1α-OHase enzyme as well as PTH, K, Na and Cl levels increased significantly at the day of parturition. The Ca level decreased significantly at the day of parturition then increased significantly at 3 weeks post-partum. The P level increased significantly at the day of parturition then decreased significantly at 3 weeks post-partum. Glucose level decreased significantly at the day of parturition and at 3 weeks post-partum. RANTES gene expression showed non-significant changes among the three different time points. The expression of VDR gene had a negative correlation with the expression of 1α-OHase enzyme gene, and serum levels of glucose, PTH, P and K, but had a positive correlation with the serum Ca level. The expression of 1α-OHase enzyme gene had a positive correlation with serum levels of PTH, P and K, but had a negative correlation with the serum Ca level.ConclusionsResults of the current study indicate the importance of monitoring the genetic expression of VDR and 1α-OHase enzyme as indicators of metabolic changes during transition period, suggesting that they are candidate genes to judge the health status of dairy cows during such period.

Effect of Seasons and Breeds on Selected Serum Parameters and Milk profile in Clinically Healthy Lactating Dairy Goats in Egypt

Effect of Seasons and Breeds on Selected Serum Parameters and Milk profile in Clinically Healthy Lactating Dairy Goats in Egypt

Short-term exposure to titanium, aluminum and niobium (Ti-6Al-4Nb) alloy powder can disturb the serum low-density lipoprotein concentrations and antioxidant profile in vital organs but not the behavior of male albino mice

A group of seven-week-old albino mice of both genders were orally administered with a suspension of 25 mg Ti-6Al-4Nb/ml of saline/kg body weight and evaluated in comparison with a control group of animals treated with saline. Evaluation of both the groups was conducted through behavioral tests (Rota rod, open field, novel object and light dark box test), blood biochemical tests [complete blood count and selected serum parameters ([cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, creatinine and triglycerides)] and on the basis of measured concentration of antioxidant metabolites (superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidation) in vital organs (brain, heart, liver, kidney and lungs). Based upon the results of these tests, it has been found that the applied dose of Ti-6Al-4Nb alloy powder has not effect on physical and neurological outcome of these animals. However, it can increase low-density lipoprotein concentrations as well as disturb the H2O2 and lipid peroxidation associated metabolic pathways, especially in male albino mice. Whereas all other hematological indices and antioxidative stress parameters were unaffected.

Effects of low phosphorus intake on serum calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase activity and parathyroid hormone in growing dogs.

A sufficient and balanced supply of calcium and phosphorus is important mainly for the skeletal health of dogs, especially during growth. Numerous reports and research results are quoted, which focus mainly on the effects of both deficient or excessive calcium supplies. The important role that phosphorus plays in the disruption to skeletal development is also explored. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of a low phosphorus supply on selected serum parameters of calcium and phosphorus metabolism in both medium and large breed growing dogs, alongside the effects on the apparent digestibility and retention of these minerals as well as the musculoskeletal development, which were published before. Beagle and Foxhound-crossbred puppies (n=53) between the age of 6 and 24weeks were either fed a balanced (control) or a low phosphorus diet, the latter one providing about one-third of P amount fed to the control group. In regular intervals, blood samples were obtained to measure serum levels of phosphorus, calcium, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Functional Additive Mixed Models were used to analyse these serum concentrations per group and per diet. In the puppies being fed the low phosphorus diet, a distinct decline of serum phosphate concentration was detected with a more pronounced and prolonged effect in the smaller Beagles. At the same time, serum calcium concentration altered in the opposite direction, implying that the product of calcium multiplied by phosphorus was regulated more closely than the calcium to phosphorus ratio. The PTH concentrations were reduced and ALP activity increased at certain time points during the low phosphorus feeding compared to the puppies being fed the control diet. In the latter group, an effect of time or maturation could be demonstrated in relation to the serum phosphate concentration.

Effect of different periods of chronic heat stress with or without vitamin C supplementation on bone and selected serum parameters of broiler chickens

ABSTRACTThis study evaluates the effect of different periods of chronic heat stress (CHS) on selected bone and serum parameters of broiler chickens with or without vitamin C administration. Ninety 23-day-old chickens were randomly allocated into seven groups: (1) control, (2) short-term CHS (5 days), (3) short-term CHS + vitamin C (12 g/100 l drinking water of a 50% product), (4) medium-term CHS (10 days), (5) medium-term CHS + vitamin C, (6) long-term CHS (20 days) and (7) long-term CHS + vitamin C. In heat-stressed groups the temperature was increased to 39 ± 1°C for 8 h/day. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected and shank, keel and tibia bones were removed. CHS was not associated with a drastic change in serum Ca and corticosterone, or bone characteristics (both cortical and trabecular bones in radiographical and histological evaluation), or birds’ performance. Oxidative stress was present especially with short-term CHS. CHS, especially for short or medium periods, showed a tendency to increase serum vitamin C and administration of this vitamin did not make a significant change in its serum levels although it ameliorated oxidative stress. In conclusion, it seems that CHS is not associated with an appreciable change in broiler performance, bone characteristics, or selected serum parameters; and simultaneous vitamin C administration at the dosage of 12 g/100 l in drinking water has no beneficial effect apart from reducing oxidative stress especially in short-term chronically heat-stressed birds.

Cirrhosis Model That Tracks Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Cell Transplantation Using Liver Serum Parameters: A Pilot Study

AIMS: This study aims to evaluate a preclinical model of hepatic failure to propose an effective scheme to follow progression of mesenchymal cell treatments using serum parameters. METHODS: Male Wistar rats (n = 53) received dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) or PBS (control) intraperitoneally. We evaluated liver macroscopy, histology, serum albumin (ALB), total bilirubin (TB), alanine (ALT) and aspartate (AST) aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma globulin, and hepatic gene expression of ALB and selected regeneration markers. RESULTS: After defining the effective DMN dose, 1 × 107 umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSC) were injected into the tail vein 1 week after treatment and liver function re-assessed. DMN 10 µg/g delivered 3 days/week for 4 weeks altered liver macroscopy and histology. DMN treatment also increased ALP, ALT and TB, and significantly reduced gene expression of regeneration factors, although ALB and hepatic growth factor mRNA were not altered. Upon UC-MSC treatment, a greater percentage of rats showed reduction of AST levels (75% UC-MSC vs 0% PBS). CONCLUSIONS: Selected serum parameters can predict liver function in a rodent model, but each animal must be its own control.

Histomorphometric diagnostics of renal osteopathy in chronic dialysis patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease.

Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) ranks among clinically and pathogenetically significant complications in patients with CKD. Numerous factors are involved in its development, and histomorphometric analysis of the bone tissue is still necessary for accurate diagnosis. The open, pilot, prospective study aimed at performing a comprehensive histomorphometric bone analysis in 26 dialysis patients and assessing the relationships of different types of CKD-MBD to selected parameters of calcium and phosphate metabolism, densitometry, activity of parathyroid glands, presence of diabetes mellitus, and duration of dialysis treatment. Comparison of the histomorphometric characteristics demonstrated statistically significant correlations between the volume of bone trabeculae and s-procollagen 1 (.754) as well as s-calcitonin (.856). Similarly, there was a positive correlation between the size of tetracycline lines and volume of bone trabeculae (.705) and a strong negative correlation with the thickness of trabeculae (-.442). When assessing the serum levels of s-osteoprotegerin and serum RANKL, there was a correlation with osteoid thickness and bone trabeculae thickness. In case of s-osteoprotegerin, a statistical power was demonstrated in relation to osteoid thickness (.880); in case of s-RANKL, a statistical power was demonstrated in relation to the thickness of trabeculae (.830). When assessing the influence of dialysis duration, relationships to the volume of trabecular bone (.665) and volume of bone trabeculae (.949) were demonstrated. Finally, a relationship between s-1,25-hydroxyvitamin D and s-osteoprotegerin was observed (.739); also the relationships demonstrated were significantly lower volume of bone trabeculae in men (p = 0.067) and lower values of s-osteocalcin and s-procollagen 1 in diabetic patients (p = 0.014). The results provide new noninvasive possibilities of CKD-MBD detection that are based on selected serum parameters of bone metabolism. Presented are possibilities of noninvasive assessment of different types of CKD-MBD using serum osteomarkers in relation to comprehensive CKD-MBD histomorphometry.

The effect of stocking density on growth and seven physiological parameters with assessment of their potential as stress response indicators for the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

Inappropriately high stocking density can lead to chronic stress that causes many problems in fish culture. We examined the influence of stocking density on growth performance and a number of key serum parameters of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) to investigate stress-induced changes. Salmon were reared at low-density (~7.57–15.71 kg/m3, initial to final density), medium-density (~15.12–31.11 kg/m3), and high-density (~30.18–61.34 kg/m3) stocking levels for 10 weeks. The results showed that stocking density had significant influence on the growth rate, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) but not on condition factor and mortality. All examined seven serum parameters showed significant change in the first few weeks. Five parameters increased in all three stocking densities, while the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities decreased. At the end of the experiment, the immunoglobulin M level and SOD activity were lowest in the high-density group (p < 0.05), while the cortisol level, ALP activity, and maleic dialdehyde content were significantly higher than in the other two groups (p < 0.05). The acid phosphatase (ACP) and lysozyme activities were not affected by stocking density. These results indicate that high stocking density could affect the growth of Atlantic salmon and the selected serum parameters, except for lysozyme and ACP, could be used as good indicators for chronic stress caused by stocking densities that are too high.

Fatty Acid Profile of Young Leaflets of Cycas circinalis L. and the Effect on Selected Serum Parameters in Wistar Rats

Young leaflets of Cycas circinalis L. (Cycadaceae) are used as a delicacy and a medicine in Sri Lanka, Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. However, only few pharmacological or chemical studies have been done to evaluate the reported medicinal importance of the species. In the present study, albino Wistar rats were tested against the young leaflets of C. circinalis to determine the changes in the activities of specific liver enzymes such as Alanine amino transferase (ALT), Aspartate amino transferase (AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and creatinine. The fatty acid constituents present were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). When the albino Wistar rats were fed daily with 1.0 g of young leaflets of C. circinalis over a period of four weeks, the body weight increment was significantly higher in test group than the control. Slight elevation of ALP and GGT levels were observed, however, the difference was non-significant. The AST concentration was found to be significantly lower (p<0.05) in test group than the control (55.1±3.7 U/L). The ALT activity in rats fed with C. circinalis leaflets was slightly lower than those of the control. However, the difference was not statistically significant. The n-Hexadecanoic acid (palmitic acid) was found to be one of the most abundent fatty acids present in young C. circinalis leaves. Palmitic acid has been shown to alter aspects of the central nervous system responsible for the secretion of insulin and to suppress the body's natural appetite-suppressing signals from leptin and insulin - the key hormones involved in weight regulation. It could be suggested that the weight gain by albino Wistar rats fed with young C. circinalis leaves may be due to the presence of high level of palmitic acid or their derivatives in the leaves. Keywords: creatinine, enzyme, liver, n-Hexadecanoic acid, plant