Serum Concentrations Of Protein Research Articles

Ultrafast and highly sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein by field-effect transistor graphene-based biosensors

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), etiological agent for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has resulted in over 775 million global infections. Early diagnosis remains pivotal for effective epidemiological surveillance despite the availability of vaccines. Antigen-based assays are advantageous for early COVID-19 detection due to their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for point-of-care testing (PoCT). This study introduces a graphene field-effect transistor-based biosensor designed for high sensitivity and rapid response to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. By functionalizing graphene with monoclonal antibodies and applying short-duration gate voltage pulses, we achieve selective detection of the viral spike protein in human serum within 100 µs and at concentrations as low as 1 fg ml−1, equivalent to 8 antigen molecules per µl of blood. Furthermore, the biosensor estimates spike protein concentrations in serum from COVID-19 patients. Our platform demonstrates potential for next-generation PoCT antigen assays, promising fast and sensitive diagnostics for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

Pigment Dispersion Contributes to Ocular Immune Privilege in a DBA/2J Mouse Model of Pigmentary Glaucoma.

To investigate the effects of anterior chamber pigment dispersion on ocular immune privilege and the possible mechanisms involved in a DBA/2J mouse model of pigmentary glaucoma. DBA/2J mice were utilized as a pigment dispersion model, and age-matched C57BL/6J mice were used as the control group in this study. Proteins in the aqueous humor (AH) and serum were quantified using the bicinchoninic acid assay. Immune cells in the AH were detected using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunocytochemistry. The expression of TGF-β2 in the AH and cytokine levels (IL-10, IFN-γ) in serum were measured using ELISA. Anterior chamber-associated immune deviation (ACAID) was induced in DBA/2J mice by injecting antigens into the anterior chamber. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) assays were used to assess the induction of ACAID. In DBA/2J mice, before and after pigment dispersion, following anterior chamber injection of pigment particles, and after ACAID modeling, the expression of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was detected using flow cytometry. Compared to C57BL/6J mice, the protein concentration, immune cell count, and TGF-β2 levels in the AH were elevated in DBA/2J mice. Protein concentration and IL-10 levels in serum were increased, while IFN-γ levels were decreased in DBA/2J. Additionally, the expression of Treg cells in the spleen of DBA/2J mice was significantly increased after pigment dispersion and anterior chamber injection of pigment particles. At 3 and 6 months, DTH responses in DBA/2J mice were not inhibited, thus preventing ACAID induction. However, the opposite was observed at 9 months in DBA/2J mice. Furthermore, the ACAID group exhibited an augmented expression of Treg cells. Dispersion of pigment particles in the anterior chamber of the eye enhances the state of ocular immune privilege by influencing the immunosuppressive microenvironment and inducing more Treg cells to reestablish ACAID.

The effect of dietary emulsifiers and thickeners on intestinal barrier function and its response to acute stress in healthy adult humans: A randomised controlled feeding study.

Although dietary emulsifiers are implicated in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease, their effect has not been studied in humans. To determine the effects of high- and low-emulsifier diets (HED, LED) on intestinal barrier function in healthy subjects in unstressed and acutely stressed states. We conducted a single-blinded, cross-over, controlled feeding trial in 22 healthy adults. After recording 7 days of their habitual diet, we randomised participants to HED or LED with ≥3-week washout between diets. On dietary completion, acute stress was induced via intravenous corticotrophin-releasing hormone. We assessed dietary adherence, effects on 2-h urinary lactulose: rhamnose ratio (LRR), serum concentrations of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, soluble-CD14 and markers of epithelial injury and inflammation. Dietary adherence was excellent. In an unstressed state, median (interquartile range) LRR during HED was 0.030 (0.018-0.042); on LED, this was 0.042 (0.029-0.078; p = 0.04). LPB concentrations were lower on HED than LED (p = 0.026), but no differences were observed for epithelial injury or inflammation. Under acute stress, LRR increased by 89% (-1% to 486%) on HED (p = 0.004), differing (p = 0.001) from 39% (1%-90%) decrease on LED (p = 0.009). Soluble-CD14 also increased (p < 0.001). The LED had a prolonged carry-over effect on suppressing HED-induced changes during stress. Similar changes in LRR and soluble-CD14 were observed when HED was used as the first diet (both p < 0.01). High intake of emulsifiers improved barrier function in the unstressed state, but increased intestinal permeability to stress, without evidence of inflammation. A LED was protective of the stress effect.

Effects of Supplemental Calcium Propionate and Concentrate Level: Growth Performance, Body Fat Reserves, and Health of High-Risk Beef Calves.

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of daily calcium propionate (CaPr) supplementation (0 or 20 g/calf) on growth performance, dietary energetics, body fat reserves, serum metabolites, and hematological responses in high-risk beef calves fed diets with varying (50, 60, or 70%) concentrate (CON) levels. In addition, a cost/income analysis of CaPr supplementation was carried out. Forty-eight crossbred bull calves (152.8 ± 1.56 kg body weight and 5.5 months of age) were involved in a fully randomized experimental design employing a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments. Calves were allocated (n = 8 per treatment) to individual pens (3.14 × 5.25 m) and were subjected to one of the following treatments during 42 d: No CaPr supplementation in diets containing 50, 60, or 70% CON (NoCaPr + 50, NoCaPr + 60, NoCaPr + 70, respectively) or daily CaPr supplementation dosed at 20 g/calf in diets containing 50, 60, or 70% CON (20CaPr + 50, 20CaPr + 60, 20CaPr + 70, respectively). Non-supplemented calves exhibited decreased dry matter intake (DMI) with increasing CON levels in their diets, while CaPr-supplemented calves displayed the opposite effect (interaction, p = 0.04). In calves fed a lower-CON diet (50%), those supplemented with CaPr showed greater average daily gain (ADG, 20.2%, p = 0.05) and lower DMI (2.2%, p = 0.03), resulting in improved ADG/DMI ratio, dietary energy, and energy retention (24.6, 14.4, and 18%, p < 0.05). These effects diminished when calves received diets with 60 or 70% CON but led to a 14.2% increase in rump fat thickness (p = 0.04). Only in non-supplemented CaPr calves, increasing the level of CON from 50 to 70% in the diet increased ADG (21.2%), decreased DMI (2.2%), and improved the ADG/DMI ratio (22.7%), with no impact on dietary net energy utilization. Non-supplemented calves exhibited an increase in lymphocytes as CON levels rose in their diets, whereas CaPr-supplemented calves showed the opposite effect (interaction, p = 0.05). Supplementation of CaPr decreased total protein (TP, p = 0.03) and albumin (ALB, p < 0.01) serum concentrations, with lower concentrations observed in 20CaPr + 50. CaPr supplementation reduced (p = 0.01) total cholesterol (TCHO) levels. An interaction between CaPr and CON level (p = 0.02) was observed since TCHO levels remained consistently low at higher CON levels. Glucose was decreased with increasing levels of CON (p = 0.02) but not (p = 0.85) for CaPr-supplemented calves. NoCaPr + 50 and NoCaPr + 70 increased (p = 0.05) ALB concentration. Gamma glutamyltransferase levels increased (p = 0.05) with increasing CON levels irrespective of CaPr supplementation. Comparing the profit within the same CON level in the diet, CaPr treatments yielded higher income, with the largest difference in profit observed when CaPr was supplemented at 50% CON level (USD 29 more/calf). In conclusion, CaPr supplementation proves to be an effective strategy for enhancing growth performance and dietary energy among high-risk beef calves, resulting in greater economic returns. The groups that received CaPr demonstrated superior profitability, particularly in calves fed diets with lower CON levels. Under the conditions in which this experiment was carried out, the optimal response occurred when the low-CON diet (50%) was supplemented with CaPr.

Diagnostic significance of interleukin levels in blood serum in premenopausal women with chronic endometritis and normal weight or overweight

Background. Chronic endometritis (CE) is an inflammatory hysteropathy causing miscarriage and infertility. High invasiveness of the main method of CE diagnosis and vague clinical picture necessitate the need for the development of less invasive approaches to establish the presence of this disease.The aim of the study. To establish a significant association of the concentration of pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins in the blood serum with the presence of chronic endometritis in premenopausal women without concomitant endocrine diseases.Materials and methods. This re-analysis of the data is based on the results of a cross-sectional study conducted between May 2017 and December 2019 which included 198 premenopausal women. In all participants, body weight and height were measured with the calculation of the body mass index, the concentration of Creactive protein, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the blood serum was determined, and a pipelle biopsy was performed to determine the CD138 expression in the endometrial stroma. Non-parametric methods, as well as ROC analysis, were used for statistical analysis.Results. 86 women were included in the re-analysis of the data, 37 of them had a confirmed diagnosis of chronic endometritis. Statistically significantly higher values of interleukin 1 (IL-1) concentration (p = 0.0028) and IL-1/tumor necrosis factor α ratio (p &lt; 0.001) were determined in women with CE and normal body weight; threshold values of these parameters were ≥ 1.35 pg/ml (sensitivity 75 %, specificity 83 %; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.88–2.15) and ≥ 1.03 (sensitivity 85 %, specificity 78 %; 95% CI: 0.81–1.27) respectively. Such a relationship was not revealed in women with overweight.Conclusions. The obtained results can be the basis for conducting a larger-scale study with determining the concentration of cytokines not only in the blood serum, but also in the endometrium of women with CE, which will allow the development of a minimally invasive method for determining the risk of the presence of chronic endometritis in premenopausal women.

Effect of diets containing probiotic yeast Cystobasidium benthicum and fruit Cyrtocarpa edulis on growth and immune parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus)

This study investigates Cystobasidium benthicum (Cb) probiotic yeast and Cyrtocarpa edulis (Ce) fruit dietary effects, single (0.5 %) or combined (Cb:Ce, 0.25:0.25 %), on growth performance, humoral immunity in serum and skin mucus, and intestinal morphology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after 14 and 28 days. The Cb group presented the highest (P < 0.05) specific growth rate, weight gain, and absolute growth rate with respect to the control group. Immunological assays indicated that Cb, Ce and Cb:Ce groups increased serum nitric oxide concentration compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Cb and Cb:Ce groups showed the highest serum myeloperoxidase enzyme activity at day 14 and 28, respectively (P < 0.05); whereas, Cb:Ce group had the highest (P < 0.05) myeloperoxidase activity in skin mucus. The superoxide dismutase enzyme activity was unaffected. On day 28, Cb, Ce, and Cb:Ce groups showed higher and lower (P < 0.05) catalase enzyme activity in serum and skin mucus, respectively, compared with the control group. Only the Cb group had higher (P < 0.05) total protein concentration in serum (day 14) and skin mucus (day 14 and 28) with respect to the control group. The lysozyme activity in serum (day 28) and skin mucus (day 14) was higher (P < 0.05) in the Cb group compared to the control group. Only the skin mucus of Ce group showed bactericidal activity against Aeromonas dhakensis (P < 0.05). Histological studies indicated that Cb and Cb:Ce groups increased microvilli height, and Cb, Ce and Cb:Ce augmented goblet cell area at day 14 compared to the control group (P < 0.05). At day 28, microvilli height was higher in all groups and the number of intraepithelial leukocytes increased in Cb and Ce groups with respect to the control group (P < 0.05). The ex vivo assay revealed that A. dhakensis in leukocytes decreased cell viability similar to the control group (P < 0.05). A principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the results. In conclusion, C. benthicum in the diet was the best supplement to improve the growth and immunity of Nile tilapia.

Characterization of obesity-related diseases and inflammation using single cell immunophenotyping in two different diet-induced obesity models

BackgroundObesity is a growing problem worldwide and a major risk factor for many chronic diseases. The accumulation of adipose tissue leads to the release of significant amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, resulting in a low-grade systemic inflammation. However, the mechanisms behind the development of obesity-related diseases are not fully understood. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the pathological changes and inflammatory processes at systemic level and in individual organs in two different diet-induced mouse obesity models.MethodsMale C57BL6/J mice were fed by high-fat diet (HFD), high-fat/high-fructose diet (HFD + FR) or normal chow for 21 weeks starting at 3 months of age (n = 15 animals/group). Insulin resistance was tested by oral glucose tolerance test. Pathological changes were investigated on hematoxylin–eosin-stained liver and brown adipose tissue sections. The gene expression levels of adipokines and cytokines were analyzed by qPCR in adipose tissues, whereas serum protein concentrations were determined by multiplex immunoassays. Immunophenotyping of isolated blood, bone marrow and spleen cells was performed by single-cell mass cytometry.ResultsWeight gain, glucose intolerance and hepatic steatosis were more severe in the HFD + FR group than in the control and HFD groups. This was accompanied by a higher level of systemic inflammation, as indicated by increased expression of pro-inflammatory genes in visceral white adipose tissue and by a higher serum TNFα level. In addition, immunophenotyping revealed the increase of the surface expressions of CD44 and CD69 on various cell types, such as CD8+ and CD4 + T-cells, B-cells and macrophages, in animals with obesity.ConclusionsThe combination of HFD with fructose supplementation promotes more properly the symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the combined high-fat/high-fructose nutrition can be a more suitable model of the Western diet. However, despite these differences, both models showed immunophenotypic changes that may be associated with increased risk of obesity-related cancer.

Effect of Guanidinoacetic Acid on Production Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Meat Quality and Rumen Fermentation in Hu Sheep.

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) can effectively improve the metabolism of energy and proteins by stimulating creatine biosynthesis. We present a study exploring the impact of GAA on production performance, serum biochemistry, meat quality and rumen fermentation in Hu sheep. A total of 144 weaned male Hu sheep (body weight 16.91 ± 3.1 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups with three replicates of twelve sheep in each group. The diets were supplemented with 0 (CON), 500 (GAA-1), 750 (GAA-2) and 1000 mg/kg (GAA-3) of GAA (weight of feed), respectively. After a comprehensive 90-day experimental period, we discovered that the supplementation of GAA had a remarkable impact on various muscle parameters. Specifically, it significantly enhanced the average daily growth (ADG) of the animals and improved the shear force and fiber diameter of the muscle, while also reducing the drip loss and muscle fiber density. Furthermore, the addition of GAA to the feed notably elevated the serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total protein (TP) and globulin (GLB), as well as the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). Concurrently, there was a decrease in the levels of triglycerides (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum. In addition, GAA decreased the pH and the acetate-to-propionate ratio and increased the total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N) levels of rumen fluid. Additionally, GAA upregulated acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) gene expression in the Hu sheep's muscles. In conclusion, our findings suggest that GAA supplementation not only enhances muscle quality but also positively affects serum biochemistry and ruminal metabolism, making it a potential candidate for improving the overall health and performance of Hu sheep.

Structural characterization and hypoglycemic effect of polysaccharides of Polygonatum sibiricum.

Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide (PSP) was extracted and purified from raw material obtained from P. sibiricum. The structural features of PSP were investigated by Congo red, circular dichroism spectrum, high-performance gel permeation chromatography, scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. In vitro simulations were conducted to investigate the kinetics of PSP enzyme inhibition. Moreover, a type II diabetes mouse model (T2DM) with streptozotocin-induced insulin resistance was established, and the indexes of lipid quadruple, insulin resistance index, oral glucose tolerance (OGTT), organ index, and pancreatic morphology of model mice were measured. The results showed that PSP mainly consists of monosaccharides, such as mannose, glucose, galactose, xylose, and arabinose. It also has a β-glycosidic bond of a pyranose ring and an irregular reticulated aggregated structure with a triple helix. In vitro enzyme inhibition assays revealed that PSP acts as a reversible competitive inhibitor of α-glucosidase and α-amylase. Furthermore, PSP was found to reduce insulin resistance index, increase OGTT and serum insulin levels, decrease free fatty acid content to improve lipid metabolism, and lower glycated serum protein content to enhance glucose metabolism in T2DM mice, thereby leading to a reduction in blood glucose concentration. Additionally, PSP exhibited reparative effects on the damaged liver tissue cells and pancreatic tissue in T2DM mice. The experiment results provide a preliminary basis for the therapeutic mechanism of PSP about type II diabetes and a theoretical reference for application in food and pharmaceutical development.

Total Gestational Weight Gain Is Explained by Leptin and Body Fat, Regardless of Pre-Pregnancy Body Mass Index and Other Adipokines, in Mexican Adolescents.

Pre-pregnancy body mass index (pBMI) is a predictor of gestational weight gain (GWG). However, other factors, such as adipokines and inflammation markers, may also be associated with GWG. The aim of the study was to determine the association of leptin, adiponectin, irisin, and C-reactive protein, with GWG in adolescents. A longitudinal study was conducted from 2018 to 2023 in adolescents with a clinically healthy pregnancy. The assessments included sociodemographic and clinical data, pBMI, percent of body fat, serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, irisin, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and total GWG adequacy. Cox regression models were performed, the outcome variables were inadequate and excessive GWG. In 198 participants, being overweight/obesity was marginally associated with a protective effect against inadequate GWG (HR = 0.44, 95%CI = 0.18-1.06), regardless of maternal characteristics and adipokines. Leptin (HR = 1.014, 95%CI = 1.008-1.021), and body fat percent (HR = 1.11, 95%CI = 1.05-1.17) were associated with a higher risk of excessive GWG, independent of other maternal variables such as pBMI, while adiponectin was associated with a lower risk. These findings suggest that, in Mexican adolescents, adipose tissue and its adipokines during pregnancy may play a more significant role in the final GWG than body weight.

Impact of Long-Term Camel Milk Consumption on Hepatic and Renal Biomarkers of Camel Nomads—An Observational Cross-Sectional Study from Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract Objectives Camel milk is gaining popularity worldwide owing to its unique biochemical composition and therapeutic benefits. In persona to available data on camel milk's potential health attributes against noncommunicable diseases, this study examined camel milk's effect on hepatic and renal biomarkers of milk consumers. Materials and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 51 camel nomads in the periurban areas of South Punjab, Pakistan. Structured questionnaire based on sociodemographic, dietary assessment, and blood sampling was done following simple random sampling technique to evaluate hematological, hepatic, and renal biomarkers. Results The results indicate hematological parameters including mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to vary significantly between camel and cow milk consumers. Comparatively higher mean values of MCH, MCHC, and MCV, that is, 29.55 pg, 32.76 g/dL, and 89.61 fL, respectively, in male camel milk consumers than in females of the same group were observed. Camel milk consumption for the extended duration was found to anticipate significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher total serum protein contents, 17.38 g/dL in males and 15.23 g/dL in females than observed in cow milk consumers. Conclusion The study validates that camel milk chronic consumption impacts some hematological changes to a significant level while indicating nonsignificant changes in renal and hepatic markers. Our study entertained sample population from one camel rearing region of the country. To better understand preventive and therapeutic properties of camel milk consumption against hepatic or renal disorders, sample populations from different regions may be enrolled and monitored for camel milk consumption, dietary patterns, and disease prevalence.

Impact of hormonal therapy on HIV-1 immune markers in cis women and gender minorities.

Although sex hormones are recognized to induce immune variations, the effect of hormonal therapy use on immunity is only poorly understood. Here, we quantified how hormonal therapy use affects HIV-1 immune markers in cis women (CW) and trans women and non-binary people (TNBP) with HIV. We considered CD4, CD8 and lymphocyte measurements from cis men (CM), CW and TNBP in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study. We modelled HIV-1 markers using linear mixed-effects models with an interaction between 'gender' (CW, TNBP) and 'hormonal therapy use' (yes/no). Models were adjusted on age, ethnicity, education level, time since start of antiretroviral therapy and use of intravenous drugs. We assessed the inflammatory effect of hormonal therapy use in 31 TNBP using serum proteomics measurements of 92 inflammation markers. We included 54 083 measurements from 3092 CW and 83 TNBP, and 147 230 measurements from 8611 CM. Hormonal therapy use increased CD4 count and CD4:CD8 ratio in TNBP more than in CW (pinteraction = 0.02 and 0.007, respectively). TNBP with hormonal therapy use had significantly higher CD4 counts [median = 772 cells/μL, interquartile range (IQR): 520-1006] than without (617 cells/μL, 426-892). This was similar to the effect of CW versus CM on CD4 T cells. Hormonal therapy use did not affect serum protein concentrations in TNBP. This study highlights the potential role of hormonal therapy use in modulating the immune system among other biological and social factors, especially in TNBP with HIV.

Systemic low-grade C-reactive protein is associated with proximal symptom spread in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Neuropathic pain is a highly prevalent condition associated with persistent disability. Some patients with neuropathic pain experience symptom spread outside neuroanatomical boundaries; these patients report more severe sensory symptoms and greater disability. However, the mechanisms behind such symptom spread are not fully understood. We used pre-surgical carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) as a human model system of neuropathic pain to identify differences in the concentration of serologic inflammatory mediators between patients with CTS with territorial symptoms and those with proximal symptom spread to either the elbow or shoulder/neck. We performed a post-hoc analysis, comparing levels of serologic inflammatory mediators in a discovery cohort among 3 symptoms spread profiles (n = 55; n = 25 no spread, n = 21 spread to elbow, n = 9 spread to shoulder/neck). We then de-novo analysed the significantly dysregulated mediators in an independent validation cohort (n = 72; n = 34 no spread, n = 16 spread to elbow, n = 22 spread to shoulder/neck). The discovery cohort revealed higher serum concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 in patients with any symptom spread proximal to the wrist; interferon-γ was higher in patients with symptom spread to the elbow compared with those without proximal spread. The validation study replicated the association of higher CRP concentrations in patients with proximal spread to the elbow (no spread: median [interquartile range] 2.5 [5.4]; spread to elbow 6.2 [4.6]; spread to shoulder/neck 2.6 [3.7], P = 0.006). No other markers replicated in the validation cohort. Our findings suggest that proximal symptom spread in the context of neuropathic symptoms is associated with low-grade inflammation.

RETROSPECTIVE HEMATOLOGY AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF RING-TAILED LEMURS (LEMUR CATTA) ON ST. CATHERINES ISLAND, GEORGIA, USA.

Annual health records were retrospectively analyzed for a colony of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) inhabiting St. Catherines Island, Georgia, USA to establish baseline hematological and serum biochemical parameters and determine sex- and age-related differences. Summarized complete blood count and serum biochemistry panel results are presented for 85 blood samples collected from 54 lemurs at annual health exams during 1998-2003. Within each of four age classes (infant, <1 yr; juvenile, 1-5 yr; adult, ≥ 6 yr), data were stratified and summarized based on sex. Lemur age was a significant positive predictor of mean corpuscular hemoglobin; absolute concentrations of neutrophils, monocytes, and band cells; serum concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, globulins, lipase, and total protein; and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity. Lemur age was a significant negative predictor of albumin:globulins ratio; alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity; and serum concentrations of calcium, cholesterol, glucose, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and triglycerides. Neutrophil proportions increased with aging and lymphocyte proportions decreased with aging, particularly in females. Recent steep population declines of wild ring-tailed lemurs make their successful husbandry and medical care an increasingly pressing concern. These biomedical data will aid in clinical diagnosis and treatment of lemurs in human care, and support conservation efforts for this species.

Findings and Prognosis in 149 Horses with Histological Changes Compatible with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease characterized by different cell infiltrates in the intestine. The aims of this study were to report the clinical and clinicopathological findings in horses with histological changes compatible with IBD in the duodenum. Further, the clinical progression of IBD and survival were investigated. Patient records were reviewed for horses in which histological evidence of IBD was found in duodenal biopsies collected during endoscopy. The histological changes were classified as mild, moderate or severe and the predominant infiltrating cell type was recorded. Clinical improvement was assessed by the owner via a questionnaire at 6 weeks after biopsy, along with survival after one year. In total, 149 horses were included, and the most common clinical signs were weight loss, reduced performance and pain during abdominal palpation. Most horses showed partial malabsorption during an oral glucose absorption test, and the horses with severe IBD had lower serum protein concentrations. Lymphoplasmacytic enteritis was the most common type of IBD (78.5% of cases), while in six horses neutrophilic infiltration of the duodenum was present. Overall, 71% of the cases had improved clinically after six weeks, mostly following treatment with corticosteroids. The results of a second biopsy were a poor predictor of improvement, and the horses that improved after 6 weeks were more likely to be alive after one year.

Salivary IgG and IgA in newborn calves and the possible role in the assessment of passive immunity transfer.

The transfer of immunoglobulins from the mother to newborns is widely recognized as a critical event for safeguarding offspring against potentially life-threatening infectious diseases. Mainly for this reason, this study aimed to assess the concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the saliva of newborn calves and explore its potential use for monitoring passive immunity transfer from cows to calves, as also to evaluate how colostrum intake affects serum and saliva IgG and IgA concentrations. The quality of colostrum samples was evaluated using an optical refractometer before administration to the calves. Saliva and blood samples from 24 calves were obtained at the day of birth (T0) and 2 days after (T2) for determination of serum concentrations of total protein by refractometer, IgG and IgA (both on serum and saliva) by ELISA test. Positive correlations were observed between salivary IgA at T2 and salivary IgG at T2. A significant increase in both IgG and IgA levels in calf serum and saliva was noted. Salivary IgA levels can reflect salivary IgG levels. These findings suggest the potential utility of IgA in monitoring passive immunity transfer, and do not exclude saliva as an alternative, practical, and non-invasive matrix for assessing passive immunity transfer.

Hypersensitive detection of CYFRA21-1 by SERS dual antibody sandwich method

PurposeAs an important reference index for the early diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), CYFRA21-1 still lacks the detection of low equipment cost, wide linear range and high sensitivity. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a vibration spectrum technology based on the surface plasma of precious metal nanoparticles, which has been effectively applied to the detection of tumor markers. The combination of SERS technology and sensors has great potential in the ultrasensitive detection of tumor markers. The purpose of this study was to develop a sensitive method using SERS to quantitatively detect CYFRA21-1 for early diagnosis of NSCLC. MethodsA double-antibody sandwich immunoassay based on SERS was designed and tested to implement the ultrasensitive detection of CYFRA21-1 in the serum of NSCLC patients. ResultsGold @Ag nanorods (Au @Ag NRs) with higher Raman signals were prepared and used as probes, while magnetic graphene oxide was used as a magnetic substrate. The immunized probe, immune substrate and CYFRA21-1 standard substance in the buffer system formed a double-antibody sandwich structure. The standard curve displayed a liner range from 1pg mL−1 to 10 ng mL−1, and the detection limit (LOD) is 0.8943pg mL−1. The Raman intensity exhibited a wide linear relationship with the logarithm of CYFRA21-1 concentration. ConclusionOur study successfully established a double-antibody sandwich immunoassay based on SERS. This method demonstrated high specificity and sensitivity for detecting CYFRA21-1 protein content in serum. It has the potential to be applied for early detection of lung cancer biomarkers.

FGF23 as a Potential Pathophysiological Factor in Peripheral Arterial Disease Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels are often elevated in chronic kidney disease (CKD). FGF23 and inflammation are common characteristics in CKD, and both are associated with worse disease progression and the occurrence of complications. The existence of an interaction between FGF23 and inflammation has been suggested, each of which influences the expression and activity of the other, leading to a vicious feedback loop with adverse outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and mortality. In this work, we determined circulating FGF23 levels in a group of patients with CKD stages 3 and 4 subjected to elective femoral endarterectomy due to established peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition resulting from an athero-inflammatory process, and we studied its associations with different inflammatory markers and mediators. We evaluated its association with serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, interleukin (IL) 6, and IL10, as well as with the gene expression levels of these parameters and A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein (ADAM) 17 in femoral vascular tissue and peripheral blood circulating cells (PBCCs). We also analyzed its association with serum concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), the systemic immune inflammation index (SII), and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Finally, we determined the vascular immunoreactivity of protein TNFα in a subgroup of patients. FGF23 concentrations were independently associated with circulating and PBCC mRNA levels of TNFα. Worst kidney function and diabetes were also found to be contributing to FGF23 levels. Patients with higher levels of FGF23 also had greater vascular immunoreactivity for TNFα.

PSIV-A-11 Potential of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae frass as a functional ingredient for nursery pigs

Abstract Frass is the leftover material from the production of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), which includes chitin-containing exoskeleton shedding, small, processed larvae, leftover dietary substrate, and larvae excrement. A total of 120 nursery pigs (initial body weight of 6.85 ± 0.10 kg) weaned at 21 d of age were used in a 6-wk study to evaluate the effect of increasing dietary levels of frass on growth performance, diarrhea score, and serological indices. Pigs were randomly assigned within sex and body weight blocks to 1 of 3 dietary treatments using 30 pens (4 pigs/pen; 10 replicates/treatment). Diets were prepared from a common basal and fed in 3 dietary phases of 2 wk each and included: 1) a control diet based primarily on corn and soybean meal; 2) the control with 3% added frass; and 3) the control with 6% added frass. On d 4, 7, and 14, individual fecal samples were obtained using fecal loops and were evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5 representing hard, normal, soft, watery soft, and watery liquid feces, respectively. Blood samples were collected on d 42 from 1 median pig per pen for the analysis of serum chemistry. Data were analyzed using the mixed model procedures as a randomized complete block design using linear and quadratic contrast comparisons to determine the effects of frass. Supplementation of frass linearly increased average daily gain (ADG) from d 7 to 14 (P = 0.044; 347.9, 378.8, and 396.8 g/d for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and tended to linearly increase ADG during Phase 1 (P = 0.079; 265.1, 284.8, and 298.6 g/d). No differences were observed for final body weight (P ≥ 0.146; 29.90, 31.48, and 30.70 kg for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and overall ADG, average daily feed intake (ADFI), or gain to feed ratio (G:F). Diarrhea scores increased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) from d 4 (2.96) to d 7 (4.20) and then decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) on d 14 (3.69). Inclusion of frass at 6% had a decreased diarrhea score compared with 3% frass on d 7 (P = 0.029), but pigs fed 6% frass had a greater diarrhea score (P = 0.038) than pigs fed the control diet on d 14. However, scores were indicative of diarrhea for all treatments on d 7 and 14. Serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltranspeptidase, urea N, creatinine, glucose, Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, Cl, triglycerides, amylase, cholesterol, and creatine phosphokinase measured on d 42 were not different (P &amp;gt; 0.093) between treatments. All serological analytical results were generally within normal expected ranges. In conclusion, these findings suggest that dietary inclusion of frass may improve growth performance of nursery pigs, especially during the early stages of the nursery period.

Toxicological Effects of Commonly Used Mosquito Coil Smoke on Liver and Lung Function in Rats

The utilization of mosquito coils as a household-level strategy for mosquito control is widely practiced in malaria-endemic regions spanning Africa, Asia, and South America. However, the continuous application of mosquito coils has prompted significant apprehensions concerning environmental and health implications. This research aims to evaluate the potential hepatic and pulmonary toxicities associated with the inhalation of mosquito coil smoke in rat subjects over both sub-chronic and chronic durations. A questionnaire was used to make inquiries regarding the prevalent types and brands of mosquito coils employed, the manner in which they are used, the durations for which they are utilized. A total of twenty-four albino rats were categorized into three distinct groups: the control group and two exposed groups. These groups were subjected to distinct brands of mosquito coil smoke across two distinct exposure regimens – a sub-chronic exposure lasting 4 weeks and a chronic exposure spanning 12 weeks. Following the exposure periods, blood samples were collected for the analysis of serum-based and biochemical markers, including serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), bilirubin, serum bicarbonate, and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), oxygen saturation, C-reactive protein, total protein, and microscopic analysis of lung tissue and liver tissue. The histopathological analysis of lung tissue was appropriately included. However, the analysis of liver tissue was omitted. The results demonstrated a significant elevation in the levels of these biochemical markers among the exposed rats in comparison to the control group. Concurrently, a decrease in blood oxygen saturation was noted in the exposed rats when contrasted with the control group. Conversely, the serum concentrations of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, total protein, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) did not exhibit notable differences in relation to the control group. Additionally, microscopic analysis of lung tissue indicated the presence of histopathological lesions in the exposed rats, suggesting a detrimental impact of mosquito coil smoke exposure in a time-dependent progression.