Significant Increase In Levels Research Articles

Enhancing Cardiorespiratory Fitness Through Sauna Bathing: Insights From the Kuopio Ischemic Heart Disease Prospective Study.

The physiological adaptations stimulated by a sauna bath(SB) are similar to those produced by moderate- or high-intensity physical activity (PA), but the relationship between SB and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is not clear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between frequency and duration of SB with CRF. Baseline SB habits were assessed in 2012 men aged 42 -61yr. CRF was directly measured using a respiratory gas exchange analyzer during cardiopulmonary exercise testing at baseline and 11yr later. The associations of SB frequency and duration with baseline and 11-yr levels of CRF were examined using robust regression analyses adjusted for several confounders, including lifestyle factors such as PA. In baseline analysis, a unit increase in sauna sessions/wk was associated with an increase in CRF 0.30 mL/kg/min (standard error [SE]: 0.14; P=.034). Alternatively, compared with a single sauna sessions/wk, 2-3 and 4-7 sauna sessions/wk was each associated with significant increases in levels of CRF: 0.84 mL/kg/min (SE: 0.32; P=.008) and 1.17 mL/kg/min (SE: 0.57; P=.041), respectively. In longitudinal analysis, frequent SB was associated with increases in 11-yr CRF levels, but this was only significant for 2-3 sauna sessions/wk compared with a single sauna sessions/wk: 1.22 mL/kg/min (SE: 0.59; P=.038). Duration of SB was not significantly associated with CRF levels in cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Frequent SB may improve levels of CRF independently of PA. These results warrant replication in robust definitive randomized controlled trials.

Increased Expression of Inactive Rhomboid Protein 2 in Circulating Monocytes after Acute Myocardial Infarction.

Increased TNF-α levels following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) contribute to impaired recovery of myocardial function. Interaction of inactive rhomboid protein 2 (iRhom2) with TNF-α converting enzyme (TACE) is required for TNF-α shedding from immune cells. We hypothesized that iRhom2 expression increases in circulating monocytes following AMI. Transcript levels of iRhom2, TACE and TNF-α were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR in isolated monocytes of 50 AMI patients at admission (d1) and 3days (d3) after. We observed a significant increase in levels of iRhom2 mRNA expression in monocytes between d1-3, while TNF-α and TACE mRNA expression remained unchanged. At d3, iRhom2 mRNA expression positively correlated with levels of intermediate monocytes or serum TNF-α, and negatively with LV systolic function. iRhom2 may contribute to regulation of post-infarction inflammation and is associated with LV dysfunction following AMI. iRhom2 modulation should be evaluated as a potential therapeutic strategy to attenuate cardiac remodeling following AMI.

Insight into the allergenicity of digestion-resistant epitopes in Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) tropomyosin

The allergenic potential of four digestion-resistant linear epitopes (EADRKYDE, ERAEERAEAG, RSVQKLQKEVDR, and VNEKEKYKGI) in Antarctic krill tropomyosin was investigated through in vivo and in vitro experiments. Mice induced by the four epitopes exhibited obvious clinical allergic symptoms, with significant increases in serum specific antibody levels and blood lymphocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils (p < 0.05). Additionally, mast cells exhibited pronounced degranulation, as well as increased release of histamine and mMCP-1, and enhanced vascular permeability. Mice challenged with the four epitopes further displayed severe pathological damage. In contrast to the antagonistic effect of interleukin-4 and interferon-γ in the plasma of mice in previous studies, stimulation of the epitopes resulted in immune system dysregulation in mice, with significant increases in the levels of interleukin-4 and interferon-γ to 110.03 pg/mL and 103.59 pg/mL, respectively. The enhanced binding ability of the four epitopes to IgE was also indicated in vitro. The four digestion-resistant epitopes are the major factors to the allergenicity of tropomyosin and have strong sensitizing abilities. This study provides a theoretical basis for using site directed mutagenesis to reduce the allergenicity of tropomyosin in Antarctic krill.

Ferrostatin-1 specifically targets mitochondrial iron-sulfur clusters and aconitase to improve cardiac function in Sirtuin 3 cardiomyocyte knockout mice

AimsFerroptosis is a form of iron-regulated cell death implicated in ischemic heart disease. Our previous study revealed that Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is associated with ferroptosis and cardiac fibrosis. In this study, we tested whether the knockout of SIRT3 in cardiomyocytes (SIRT3cKO) promotes mitochondrial ferroptosis and whether the blockade of ferroptosis would ameliorate mitochondrial dysfunction. Methods and resultsMitochondrial and cytosolic fractions were isolated from the ventricles of mice. Cytosolic and mitochondrial ferroptosis were analyzed by comparison to SIRT3loxp mice. An echocardiography study showed that SIRT3cKO mice developed heart failure as evidenced by a reduction of EF% and FS% compared to SIRT3loxp mice. Comparison of mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions of SIRT3cKO and SIRT3loxp mice revealed that, upon loss of SIRT3, mitochondrial, but not cytosolic, total lysine acetylation was significantly increased. Similarly, acetylated p53 was significantly upregulated only in the mitochondria. These data demonstrate that SIRT3 is the primary mitochondrial deacetylase. Most importantly, loss of SIRT3 resulted in significant reductions of frataxin, aconitase, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in the mitochondria. This was accompanied by a significant increase in levels of mitochondrial 4-hydroxynonenal. Treatment of SIRT3cKO mice with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) for 14 days significantly improved preexisting heart failure. Mechanistically, Fer-1 treatment significantly increased GPX4 and aconitase expression/activity, increased mitochondrial iron‑sulfur clusters, and improved mitochondrial membrane potential and Complex IV activity. ConclusionsInhibition of ferroptosis ameliorated cardiac dysfunction by specifically targeting mitochondrial aconitase and iron‑sulfur clusters. Blockade of mitochondrial ferroptosis may be a novel therapeutic target for mitochondrial cardiomyopathies.

FIBROSIS AS AN ADDITIONAL RISK FACTOR FOR STROKE DEVELOPMENT IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION (RETROSPECTIVE STUDY)

Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common issue that is increasingly prevalent, particularly in hypertensive patients and leads to severe complications, notably stroke. Several prothrombotic factors are elevated in AF, contributing to an increased risk of stroke. Tissue factor (TF) is the main initiator of the blood coagulation cascade, also involved in inflammation and fibrogenesis. Atrial fibrosis plays a central role in creating the substrate for AF, with the Transforming Growth Factor (TGF-B1) identified as a key cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrosis. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between atrial fibrosis and the risk of developing transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke in hypertensive patients with AF (retrospective study). Design and method: We observed 445 hypertensive patients with nonvalvular AF over three years (2017-2019). Clinical examination included a study of complaints, physical, laboratory, and instrumental examination, along with additional biochemical blood tests, such as TF, hsCRP, IL-6, and TGF-B1. Blood tests were determined using the ELISA method. Treatment regimens for all patients included standard therapy (anticoagulants, antiarrhythmic, and symptomatic medication). Studies were conducted based on open-label protocols, using the universal statistical packages SPSS 13.0. Results: The obtained results have shown that among the 445 hypertensive patients with AF within three years, TIA or stroke was detected in 128 patients (28.8%). We found that in these patients, the level of TF is statistically elevated compared to other patients with AF (1350±65 vs. 850±33 pg/ml). Hypertensive patients undergoing TIA or stroke exhibited a significant increase in levels of inflammatory and fibrosis markers compared with other hypertensive patients with AF. Significant differences between hsCRP levels were observed (8.6±1.4 vs. 4.2±1.6, p=0.002); IL-6 levels (6.4±0.8 vs. 3.6±1.2 pg/ml, p=0.043); and TGF-B1 levels (1240±75 vs. 900±43 pg/ml, p=0.02). Moreover, plasma levels of hs-CRP were higher among AF patients at high risk of stroke (3 or more) according to CHA2DS2-VASc (p=0.002). Conclusions: We have demonstrated that fibrosis and inflammation markers, along with coagulation cascade markers, are additional prognostic criteria contributing to the development of TIA or stroke in hypertensive patients with AF.

Acceleration of Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats through a Novel 3D Organo-Hydrogel Nanocomposite of Polydopamine/TiO2 Nanoparticles and Cu (PDA-TiO2@Cu).

Diabetic wound represents a serious issue with a substantial impact and an exceptionally complex pathology affecting patients' mental health and quality of life. So, we have developed a novel 3D organo-hydrogel nanocomposite of polydopamine/TiO2 nanoparticles and cu (PDA-TiO2@Cu) and examined its efficacy in diabetic wound healing. Forty-five adult male albino rats were divided into normal control rats (non-diabetic rats with non-treated skin wounds), diabetic control rats (diabetic rats with non-treated skin wounds), and organo-hydrogel-treated rats (diabetic wounds treated with topically applied organo- hydrogel once daily). Macroscopic changes of the wound were observed on days 0, 3, 5, 7, and 10 to measure wound diameters. Skin specimens from the wound tissue were taken on days 3, 7, and 10, respectively, and examined histologically and immunohistochemically. Also, the gene expressions of collagen I, Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), and levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) were assessed. Our observed results indicated that the developed patch significantly accelerated the healing time compared to the normal control and diabetic control groups. Moreover, the patchloaded group revealed complete re-epithelization and a highly significant increase in the mean area % of CD31 immunostaining on day 7. The organo-hydrogel-loaded group displayed a significant decrease in gene expression of MMP-9 and a significant increase in gene expression of EGF and collagen I. Additionally, the organo-hydrogel-loaded group exhibited a significant decrease in levels of IL-6 and a significant increase in levels of SOD, compared to the normal diabetic control groups. The organo-hydrogel can be used for treating and decreasing the healing period of diabetic wounds.

Association of adipokine levels with obesity in periodontal health and disease: A systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression.

This study aimed to investigate the levels of serum, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), and salivary adipokines and their possible relationship with periodontitis and obesity. An electronic search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed/ Medline, Scopus, and EBSCOhost through February 2023. Two independent reviewers screened the titles, abstracts, and full text of all the studies. Studies comparing the levels of adipokines in GCF, serum, and/or saliva in subjects with obesity and periodontitis (group 1), subjects with normal weight and periodontitis (group 2), and subjects with obesity and gingival health (group 3) were included. Meta-analyses and meta-regression were performed on the data from included studies. Seventeen studies with study participants ranging from 30 to 120 were included with subjects in each group ranging from 10 to 40. There was a significant increase in levels of serum TNF-α, leptin, IL-6, and CRP between groups 1 and 2 (p < .05). In GCF, TNF-α and resistin levels were significantly higher (p < .05) in Group 1 vs. 2. Serum level of leptin was higher for group 1 vs. 3 (p < .05). Meta-regression analysis revealed that the obesity definition (body mass index (BMI) cut-off value >25 or >30) was significant for serum resistin (p < .05) and GCF resistin (p < .05) between group 1 and 2. The current analysis indicates that both periodontitis and obesity can modulate the pro-inflammatory cytokines at systemic and local levels. This bidirectional interaction of periodontitis and obesity via the inflammation pathway seems likely plausible. Further studies are required to elucidate this mechanism in more detail.

CD8+ T cells are necessary for improved sepsis survival induced by CD28 agonism in immunologically experienced mice.

A hallmark of T cell dysregulation during sepsis is the downregulation of costimulatory molecules. CD28 is one of T cell costimulatory molecules significantly altered on memory T cells during sepsis. We recently showed that treatment with a αCD28 agonist in septic immunologically experienced mice led to improved survival. Therefore, here we aimed to identify the cell subset(s) necessary for the survival benefit observed in the context of CD28 agonism, and to further investigate the mechanism by which CD28 agonism improves sepsis survival in immunologically experienced mice. Methods: Mice received specific pathogen inoculation to generate memory T cell populations similar in frequency to that of adult humans. Once these infections were cleared and the T cell response had transitioned to the memory phase, animals were rendered septic via cecal ligation and puncture in the presence or absence of an agonistic anti-CD28 mAb. Results demonstrated that CD8+ T cells, and not bulk CD4+ T cells or CD25+ regulatory T cells, were necessary for the survival benefit observed in CD28 agonist-treated septic immunologically experienced mice. Upon examination of these CD8+ T cells, we found that CD28 agonism in septic immunologically experienced mice was associated with an increase in Foxp3+ CD8+ T cells as compared to vehicle-treated controls. When CD8+ T cells were depleted in septic immunologically experienced mice in the setting of CD28 agonism, a significant increase in levels of inflammatory cytokines in the blood was observed. Taken together, these results indicate that CD28 agonism in immunologically experienced mice effectively suppresses inflammation via a CD8+-dependent mechanism to decrease mortality during sepsis.

Measurement of Arginase Activity in Sera of Iraqi Acromegaly Patients with Diabetes

The goal of this study was to measure arginase enzyme activity in diabetic acromegaly Iraqi patients and compare it to a control group. This study included 80 participants, whose ages ranged from 25 to 65, and was conducted on forty diabetic acromegaly Iraqi patients attending the national diabetes center of Mustansiriyah University in Baghdad and forty healthy individuals (as a control group). The results showed a highly significant reduction in arginase activity and High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), Urea levels were reduced not significantly, whereas a highly significant increase in levels of Growth Hormone (GH), Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Fasting Serum glucose (FSG), Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and Very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C)) compared to control. A significant positive correlation was revealed between arginase activity and FSG levels in diabetic acromegaly patients. In conclusion, diabetic acromegaly patients had a significant decreased in serum arginase activity with no significant decrease urea levels, which indicates that their bodies store more nitrogen compounds to be utilized in constructing processes.

Efficacy of Drumstick Tree (Moringa oleifera) Leaves Powder on Lipid Profile and Hematological Indices in Chickens on a High Fat Diet

Moringa oleifera belongs to the Moringaceae family and genus Moringa. Moringa oleifera has many beneficial pharmaceutical and nutritional properties. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary supplements of Moringa oleifera leaves powder after consumption of a high-fat diet on cholesterol TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL and hematological parameters such as Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC, PCV, RBCs, WBCs, PLT neutrophil, heterophil and lymphocytes count in chicks. Golden Misri Chickens were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (the Control group) was given Feed-13. Group 2 (Experimental Group) was given Feed-13 and mustard oil (high-fat diet) Group 3 (experimental Group) was given Feed-13 + mustard oil and 1.5% Moringa oleifera leaves powder. Group 4 (experimental Group) was given Feed-13 and 1.5% of Moringa oleifera leaves powder for four weeks. The results of the current study showed a significant (p &lt; 0.05) increase in body weight in Experimental Group 3. Experimental group 3 showed a significant increase in levels of HDL, TG, RBCs, and Hb, while significantly decreased (p &gt; 0.05) in LDL, TLC, WBCs, MCHC, MCV, MCH, TC, TP, Monocytes count, neutrophil count, and platelet counts. Moringa oleifera supplementation showed a significant reduction in cholesterol, LDL, and TC levels. The findings of this study demonstrated that powdered Moringa oleifera is a beneficial and effective dietary supplement that increases HDL, TG, Hb, and RBCs, and decreases cholesterol levels.

Serum cytokine profiles during engraftment syndrome and acute graft-versus-host disease in adult patients after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BackgroundThe underlying biology of engraftment syndrome (ES) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is not fully elucidated, and the extent of its overlap with acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) remains unclear. In order to establish potential indicator to distinguish ES more accurately, we conducted a retrospective analysis of cytokine levels during HSCT. MethodsA total of 121 consecutive adult patients who underwent HSCT were enrolled in this study. Blood samples for interleukin (IL)-2, IL-2R, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-1β, IL-12p70, interferon (IFN)-γ, IFN-α, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and C-reactive protein CRP were regularly assessed after transplantation and during transplantation related adverse events. Additionally, the balance of naïve, central memory and effector memory of CD4+ and CD8+ was analyzed around 30 and 60 days after stem cell infusion, respectively. ResultsThirty (24.79 %) and 33 (27.27 %) patients were diagnosed with ES and aGvHD, respectively. ES was characterized by a significant increase in level of IL-5, IL-6, IL-8 and sIL-2R, while aGvHD was associated with a significant upregulation of IL-6, IL-5, IL-10 and sIL-2R in the patients from grade I to grade IV. Notably, patients got much higher levels of IL-6, IL-5 and sIL-2R when developed to ES than to aGvHD. Moreover, a pronounced shift from naïve to memory cells, both in CD4+ and CD8+ subsets, was found in ES patients. ConclusionsThese findings suggest that cytokine profiles could serve as potential indicators for detecting and differentiating ES and aGvHD, enabling timely clinical intervention. Prospective clinical trials involving larger, independent patient cohorts are required to validate these observations.

Physiological Effect of Gentle Stroking in Lambs.

The aim of the study was to determine changes in physiological indicators in lambs subjected to gentle stroking. The study included 40 three-week-old lambs (20 females of the synthetic prolific-meat (BCP) line and 20 females of the Świniarka (SW) breed). The animals were assigned to two control groups (n = 20) and two experimental groups (n = 20). Lambs from the experimental groups received treatment. Analyses consisted of determining the following parameters: heart rate (HR), saturation (S) and biochemical analysis. In the groups of sheep subjected to gentle massage, the analyses revealed a significant increase in the levels of cortisol, CAT, GST, GPx, among others, and a significant decrease in the levels of total protein, SOD, TAC, uric acid and Na+. At the same time, indicators of reduced stress levels were revealed, i.e., a significant increase in glycogen levels and a significant decrease in glucose and HR values. These results suggest that the introduction of gentle touch can induce positive states in lambs, and that the stress response may be transient and adaptive. Nevertheless, it is important to note that these interactions can be a source of stress, even if the behavioral response does not necessarily indicate stress.

Serum Biomarkers after Adenotonsillectomy for Pediatric OSA: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

To assess whether adenotonsillectomy improves levels of inflammatory and cardiometabolic markers in children with polysomnographically diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Two authors independently searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases up to August 16, 2022, for studies relating to pre- and post-operative levels of serum markers in pediatric patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy. Data were extracted from included articles into a structured proforma. Meta-analyses of the standardized mean difference (SMD) were conducted in random-effects models. We calculated the probability of benefit (POB) and number needed to treat (NNT) for outcomes that demonstrated a statistically significant effect after adenotonsillectomy. The primary outcomes were changes in serum markers including C-reactive protein (CRP), high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), interleukin-10 (IL-10), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), insulin, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL). We screened 1616 studies and included 26 studies with 1331 participants. Meta-analysis was performed on 20 of the included studies. Adenotonsillectomy was associated with a significant decrease in insulin levels (SMD = -0.322, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = -0.583 to -0.061), CRP (SMD = -0.946, 95% CI = -1.578 to -0.314), and BNP (SMD = -1.416, 95% CI = -2.355 to -0.477) and significant increase in levels of IGF-1 (SMD = 0.691, 95% CI = 0.207 to 1.176). There were no significant changes in levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, TNF-α, LDL, HDL, glucose, IL-10, and IL-6. In children with polysomnographically diagnosed OSA, adenotonsillectomy was associated with improvements in serum biomarkers, comprising lower CRP, insulin, and BNP, and higher IGF-1. Laryngoscope, 134:3030-3037, 2024.

The effect of estrogen-containing birth control pills on the constituents of bradykinin expression in plasma

Hereditary angioedema with C1-inhibitor deficiency (HAE-C1INH) is a rare autosomal disorder presenting with recurrent angioedema. Estrogen-containing medications trigger angioedema in some patients, and conversely, progesterone may decrease attack frequency. The mechanism by which estrogen may exacerbate angioedema in HAE-C1INH is not well characterized. Our aim was to investigate the link between estrogen and bradykinin constituents to better understand the specific underlying triggers that may exacerbate angioedema in patients with HAE-C1INH. As estrogen is contraindicated for patients with HAE-C1INH, females without a history of angioedema were recruited to evaluate whether estrogen-containing oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) alter plasma protein levels of bradykinin, cleaved high-molecular-weight kininogen (cHK), and activated factor XII (FXIIa). Blood (plasma) was collected before initiation of OCP administration and 3 months thereafter. High-molecular-weight kininogen (HK) was measured by ELISA and FXIIa and cHK were analyzed by Western blot analysis. A total of 12 adult females without HAE-CINH (aged <40 years) had a median baseline plasma HK level of 33,976 ng/mL. After 3 months of OCP therapy, their median HK levelincreased to 38,202 ng/mL. With OCPs, there was also a significant increase in level of FXIIa protein (P <.01), as well asan increase in cHK protein level. This preliminary study, performed in females without HAE-C1INH, suggests that estrogen may exacerbateangioedema by increasing the production of cHK and FXIIa.

Interactive effects of dietary protein and nano-chitosan on growth performance, immune response, and histological aspects of lymphoid organs in broiler chickens

A feeding trial was conducted to assess the effect of partial replacement of dietary soybean meal by three plant protein sources: coconut, rocket seed, and black cumin meals with their combination in the presence or absence of nano-chitosan (NCH) on growth performance and immune response in broiler chickens. Five starter and grower diets were formulated and used from 1 to 42 days of age. The NCH was added to starter and grower diets at 1.0 g/kg. Five-hundred-fifty-day-old Arbor Acres Plus broiler chicks were randomly divided into ten treatments with five equal replications. Final body weight (FBW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and blood plasma parameters were investigated. Histological aspects of lymphoid organs (thymus: T, bursa of Fabricius: B, and spleen: S) were characterized. Apart from added NCH, the FBW, BWG, and FCR of broilers fed the diets containing the tested plant proteins were significantly superior to the control ones. However, FI of birds fed the diets containing CM alone or combined with RSM plus BCM was significantly reduced. All experimental broilers displayed high plasma levels of IgG compared with the control group. There were significant increases in plasma concentrations of IgM, IgA, and T4 for groups that fed the diets containing RSM, BCM, and mixture of CM, RSM, and BCM compared with their controls. The T3 levels of broilers fed the tested plant proteins were significantly increased compared with the controls. Aside from plant protein source, broilers fed the NCH-enriched diets achieved significant increases in levels of IgM, TAC, and FSH and activities of CAT and SOD but reduced the MDA level compared with control. The interactions between plant protein source and added nano-chitosan were not interrelated. Furthermore, CM, RSM, and BCM can be used as complementary dietary proteins singly or combined with NCH with no adverse effects on growth performance. Addition of NCH molecules has a positive effect on live body weight and increases feed intake compared with control chicks.Graphical

THE EFFECT OF A DIET ON THE OCCURRENCE OF OCHRATOXIN A IN BODY FLUIDS

Background. Ochratoxin A (OTA), a secondary metabolite of fungi, is produced by fungi of the As pergillus and Penicillium genera. It is supplied to the body with food consumed by people. The purpose of this study was to determine the occurrence of ochratoxin A in human body fluids in relation to diet. A part of the study group consisted of women who were donors from a breast milk bank. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of ochratoxin A in body fluids (milk, urine, serum) and the diet of the women covered by the study. The study material consisted of 60 urine samples, 60 milk samples and 60 blood samples. Ochratoxin A in milk and urine was determined by HPLC with fluorescence detection. For the determination of ochratoxin A in blood serum, we used a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (LC - MS/MS) method. Results and conclusions. As a result of the analysis, it was found that as the frequency of consump tion of dried grape fruit increases, there is a significant increase in the level of OTA in breast milk. Next, it was shown that as the frequency of beer consumption increases, there is a significant increase in the level of OTA in maternal urine. Finally, it was shown that a significant increase in maternal serum OTA levels occurs with an increase in the frequency of consumption of dried fruit. OTA was found in 4 out of 60 milk samples, in 40 out of 60 urine samples and in 60 out of 60 serum samples. The surveyed women’s average age was 31 (ranging from 22 to 41). Given all the respondents, 46 lived in the city, 14 in rural areas, 35 were economically active, 22 were not, and 3 were on maternity leave. On average, they had 2 children (from 1 to 4). Of all children being fed, 35 were male and 25 female. On average, delivery occurred on the 37th week of pregnancy (between the 27th and 42nd week).

Impact of Varicocele on Testicular Oxidative Stress and Sperm Parameters in Experimental Animals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Varicocele has been associated with high seminal oxidative stress (OS), impaired semen quality, and reduced male fertility potential. However, the exact mechanism(s) underlying the development of varicocele-mediated infertility and the cause-effect relationship between varicocele and testicular dysfunction are not fully understood. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) is to investigate the impact of varicocele on testicular OS markers and sperm parameters in experimental animals with varicocele as compared to animals without varicocele. A literature search was performed using the Scopus and PubMed databases on studies that investigated testicular OS markers and sperm parameters in animals with varicocele. The primary outcomes included malondialdehyde (MDA) (nmol/mg) levels whereas the secondary outcomes included total sperm count (×106), sperm vitality (%), total sperm motility (%), and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) (%). Standardized mean difference (SMD) (95% confidence interval [CI]) was chosen to express the effect size. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Cambridge Quality Checklist. Out of 76 identified articles, 6 studies on rats were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis showed a significant increase of MDA (SMD: 15.61 [1.93, 29.29]; p=0.03) in rats with varicocele vs. controls. We also observed a significant decrease in total sperm count (SMD: -17.45 [-28.97, -5.93]; p<0.01), sperm vitality (SMD: -16.41 [-26.30, -6.52]; p<0.01), total sperm motility (SMD: -17.67 [-24.90, -10.44]; p<0.01), and a significant increase of SDF (SMD: 7.41 [1.23, 13.59]; p=0.02), in rats with varicocele vs. controls. The quality of the included studies was ranked as high. This SRMA indicates a significant increase in levels of testicular MDA and SDF and a reduction of sperm quality in experimental animals with varicocele. These findings support the potential role of testicular OS in the development of varicocele-induced testicular damage.

Toxicity assessment of perovskite nanocomposites: In vivo study.

Perovskite solar cells display potential as a renewable energy source because of their high-power conversion efficiency. However, there is limited understanding regarding the potential impact of perovskite on human health and the ecosystem. In this study, two sets of male Wistar albino rats received 35 injections of perovskite composite at a dosage of 0.372mg/kg body weight. The animals underwent thorough examinations, encompassing morphometric, hematological, biochemical, histological, and behavioral analyses. Liver, kidney, and testis biopsies were processed and examined histologically. Additionally, two groups of mice (perovskite-treated and control mice, each with n = 10) underwent three behavioral tests: the Elevated Zero Maze test, Marble Burying test, and Light-Dark Box test. Perovskite-treated rats displayed a significant increase in levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, white blood cells, and platelets. However, total bilirubin levels decreased, with no significant alteration in albumin values. Furthermore, exposure to perovskite composite resulted in a slight decrease in lactate dehydrogenase and red blood cell count. Histopathological examination revealed hepatic hydropic degeneration, Kupffer cells hypertrophy and hyperplasia, and renal hydropic degeneration, while testicular tissues remained unaffected. Moreover, behavioral changes were observed in perovskite-treated mice, including depression, anxiety, and compulsive burying activity. These findings suggest that exposure to perovskite can lead to significant hematological and biochemical changes, as well as hepatorenal histopathological alterations and behavioral changes. Additionally, chronic exposure to perovskite materials may induce structural and functional alterations in vital organs.

Kuntai capsule attenuates premature ovarian insufficiency by activating the FOXO3/SIRT5 signaling pathway in mice: A comprehensive study using UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap and integrated pharmacology

Ethnopharmacological relevanceClassical prescriptions are not only a primary method of clinical treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) but also represent breakthroughs in the inheritance and development of this field. Kuntai capsule (KTC), a formulation based on a classical prescription, comprises six TCMs: Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata, Coptidis Rhizoma, Paeoniae Radix Alba, Scutellariae Radix, Asini Corii Colla, and Poria. This formulation possesses various beneficial effects, such as nourishing yin and blood, clearing heat and purging fire, and calming the nerves and relieving annoyance. The investigation of the efficacy and mechanism of KTC in regulating anti-aging factors in the treatment of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is not only a prominent topic in classical prescription research but also a crucial issue in the treatment of female reproductive aging using TCM. Aim of the studyTo evaluate the therapeutic effect of KTC on POI and its underlying mechanism. Materials and methodsHealthy and specific pathogen-free (SPF) female Kunming mice aged 6–8 weeks were selected. After acclimatization, the mice were randomly divided into a control, model, and high, middle, and low dose groups of KTC (1.6, 0.8, and 0.4 mg/kg, respectively). Except for the control group, the animals in the other groups were administered a single intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg cyclophosphamide and 30 mg/kg Busulfan to induce the model of POI. After modeling, the mice were treated with the corresponding drugs for 7 days. Serum and ovarian tissues were collected, and the levels of serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The chemical composition of KTC was characterized and analyzed using ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry. A “drug-component-target-pathway-disease” network was constructed using network pharmacology research methods to identify the key active components of KTC in treating POI and to elucidate its potential mechanism. The protein expression of the FOXO3/SIRT5 pathway was detected by western blotting. ResultsCompared to the model group, the high-dose group of KTC showed a significant increase in ovarian index, significant increase in levels of E2 and SOD2, and a significant decrease in FSH levels. Through systematic analysis of the chemical constituents of KTC, 69 compounds were identified, including 7 organic acids, 14 alkaloids, 28 flavonoids, 15 terpenoids, 2 lignans, 2 phenylpropanoids, and 1 sugar. Based on network pharmacology research methods, it was determined that KTC exerts its therapeutic effect on POI through multiple components (paeoniflorin and malic acid), multiple targets (FOXO3 and SIRT5), and multiple pathways (prolactin signaling pathway, longevity regulating pathway, and metabolic pathways). The accuracy of the network pharmacology prediction was further validated by detecting the protein expression of SIRT5 and FOXO3a, which showed a significant increase in the middle and high-dose groups of KTC compared to the model group. ConclusionsKTC may effectively treat POI through a multi-component, multi-target, multi-pathway approach, providing an experimental basis for using KTC based on classical prescriptions in the treatment of POI.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adult mental health-related admissions at a large university health system in North Carolina - one year into the pandemic.

Pandemic-associated stress may have exacerbated preexisting mental health and substance use disorders (MH/SUD) and caused new MH/SUD diagnoses which would be expected to lead to an increase in visits to emergency departments and hospital admissions for these conditions. This study assessed whether the proportion of hospital and emergency department encounters for MH/SUD diagnoses increased during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. We conducted a longitudinal (interrupted time series) analysis of 994,724 eligible encounters identified by electronic query between January 1, 2016 and March 31, 2021. Of these, 55,574 encounters involved MH/SUD diagnosis. The pre-pandemic period was defined as January 1, 2016 to March 31, 2020, and the pandemic period was defined as April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021. All statistical analyses were performed with R. No significant trend in MH/SUD encounters at baseline (rate ratio 1.00, 95% CI 0.99-1.01, p = 0.75) was observed. However, the onset of the pandemic was temporally associated with a significant level increase in the proportion of MH/SUD encounters relative to overall encounters (rate ratio 1.14, 95% CI 1.06-1.21, p<0.001) with no change in the overall trend (rate ratio 0.99, 95% CI 0.90-1.10, p = 0.89). The significant pandemic-associated increase in the proportion of MH/SUD encounters relative to overall encounters was driven largely by sustained numbers of MH/ SUD encounters despite a decrease in total encounters. Increased support for mental health care is needed for these vulnerable patients during pandemics.