Iron profile of pregnant sickle cell anemia patients in Odisha, India

ABSTRACT Introduction: During pregnancy, the iron requirement increases to meet the optimal growth of the fetus and prevent iron deficiency anemia-related complications in the mother. However, in sickle cell disease (SCD) primarily due to repeated blood transfusions and hemolysis-induced recycling of iron, its supplementation during pregnancy remains questionable and may be harmful. Methods: Twenty-five pregnant women with homozygous SCD and 25 pregnant women with normal hemoglobin variants were included as cases and control, respectively. Pregnancy and sickle cell anemia (SCA) were diagnosed using standard protocols. The serum iron, serum ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), percentage transferrin saturation and C-reactive protein were estimated, as per the manufacturer's protocol. The complete blood count was performed. The unpaired 't-test' was performed using the SPSS v23.0 and the principal component analysis (PCA) was performed using the online software MetaboAnalyst for statistical analysis. Main Results: The studied cases had significantly lower mean hemoglobin and higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV), compared to controls. The mean serum-iron, serum-ferritin and percentage transferrin-saturation in the cases were significantly higher than that of the controls, while the TIBC was lower in the cases (p < 0.0001). The mean level of serum iron, ferritin, percentage transferrin saturation and TIBC were 309.44 ± 122.40mcg/dl, 860.36 ± 624.64ng/ml, 42.6 ± 17.30% and 241.32 ± 96.30 mcg/dl, respectively, in the cases and 95.36 ± 41.90mcg/dl, 122.28 ± 49.70ng/ml, 15.83 ± 3.10% and 492.6 ± 149.40mcg/dl in the controls, respectively. Higher MCV, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) with lower hemoglobin (Hb) were noted in the cases. The PCA revealed that the cases were more heterogeneous in terms of the variability of the iron status and hematological indices than the controls. Conclusion: The current study shows iron sufficiency in most cases of pregnancy with SCA and suggests that evaluation of iron status must be made before initiating iron prophylaxis in pregnant women with SCA, especially in regions having a high prevalence of sickle cell hemoglobinopathy.

Hematological consequences of antiepileptic drug therapy among children with epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurologic disease that comes third after cerebrovascular and Alzheimer's disease. Anti-epileptic drugs may affect certain hematological parameters of epileptic patients. Few researches investigated hematological adverse effects of antiepileptic drugs in Libya. Thus, the aim was to evaluate hematological parameters in epileptic children who are on antiepileptic drugs. This retrospective study included 83 pediatric patients with epilepsy recruited from Benghazi Children Hospital, Department of Neurology, from December 2017 to April 2018. Data collected included demographic characteristics, types of epilepsy, anti-epileptic drugs and serum hematological parameters. Hematological parameters recorded included: hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet, mean cell volume, mean cell hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin concentration and white blood cell count. In all treated patients, regardless of the number of antiepileptic drugs therapy used, the average levels of hematological parameters were significantly lower in treated group compared to control group (11.64 gm per dl, 34.53%, 27.74 pg and 33.13 gm per dl, respectively). A significant increase (12.12109 per l) in white blood cell counts in treated group was found. Average hemoglobin, hematocrit and mean cell hemoglobin concentration levels were significantly lower in patients on poly-therapy compared to mono-therapy and control groups. Average white blood cell counts were significantly increased in patients on anti-epileptic drugs. In sodium valproate users, levels of hematological parameters were significantly decreased but significantly increased in white blood cell counts. In diazepam users, significant increases in white blood cells and platelet but no difference in other parameters observed. There were no differences in all hematological parameters among patients using carbamazepine except for platelet counts (significantly decreased). In conclusion, there is substantial effect of the anti-epileptic drugs, especially sodium valproate, on hematological parameters of children despite the effects were not critical as the changes were still in the normal range.

Effect of occupational exposure on hematological and biochemical parameters in workers at oil and gas companies

Petroleum refineries are largest chemical industries that are responsible for emission of several pollutants into the atmosphere. Benzene and its metabolites are regarded as the most hazardous compounds that are emitted by petroleum refineries. These contribute to toxic oxidants, which cause many serious health risks to petroleum refineries workers. This study was aimed to analyze the effects of chemical exposure on hematological and biochemical parameters among workers at Zawia oil refinery and Mellituh oil and gas refinery companies. A total of 200 workers participated in this study which consisting of two equal groups (each group: n = 100). The first group consists of petroleum refineries workers and the second group consists of non-oil work civil servants serving were recruited as exposed and control subjects, respectively. The results of blood picture, liver enzymes and kidney functions were compared between the groups. Mean white blood cells counts, platelet counts, and hematocrit count were significantly higher, while the mean red blood cells count was insignificantly changed in petroleum refineries workers. While the mean hemoglobin and corpuscular hemoglobin concentration levels were significantly lower, whereas the mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin levels were insignificantly changed in petrol refineries workers. Liver enzymes and renal functions were significantly higher in petrol refineries workers. The present findings indicate that occupational exposure to benzene causes significant alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters and workers are at high risk of developing blood, hepatic or renal related disorders. Protection and frequent medical attention should be given to petroleum refineries workers.

Tackling Nonatrial Fibrillation Diseases Using Nonvitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulant: by What and for Whom? / 대한뇌졸중학회지

No abstract available.

Colecalciferol regula os parâmetros hematológicos e a produção de citocinas pró-inflamatórias renais em camundongos diabéticos e nas células RAW 264. 7 / Colecalciferol regulates haematological parameters and the production of renal proinflammatory cytokines in diabetic mice and RAW 264. 7 cells

Os efeitos causados pelo tratamento em conjunto da insulina e do colecalciferol em indivíduos diabéticos não estão completamente elucidados. O presente trabalho avaliou o efeito de ambos os hormônios nos rins, no fígado, no coração e nos parâmetros hematológicos de camundongos machos (C57BL/6) sadios e diabéticos, bem como a ação do colecalciferol (in vitro) na resposta imunológica desenvolvida pelas células RAW 264.7 e pelos macrófagos peritoneais (MP) após estímulo com lipopolissacarídeo (LPS). Após dez dias da administração da aloxana (60 mg/kg), animais diabéticos exibiram redução do ganho de peso corporal e hiperglicemia quando comparados aos animais que receberam salina. No sétimo dia do período experimental, foi verificado que animais diabéticos que não receberam nenhum hormônio, em relação aos não diabéticos, exibiram redução do peso corporal, dos níveis de hemoglobina (Hb), hematócrito, hematimetria, insulina, TNF-α e IL-6 (coração) e aumento da glicemia, da relação peso corpóreo/peso rim esquerdo, das concentrações séricas de ureia, creatinina, Fosfatase Alcalina (FAL), Lactato desidrogenase (LDH) e lactato, fator de necrose tumoral (TNF)-α, interleucina (IL)-6 e IL-10 (no rim); o tratamento com insulina (1 UI/300 mg/dL glicemia), em relação aos animais diabéticos não tratados, promoveu aumento do peso corporal, das concentrações séricas de insulina e redução da glicemia, das concentrações séricas de ureia e da razão TNF-α/IL-10 (coração); o tratamento com colecalciferol (800 UI/dia), em relação aos animais diabéticos não tratados, promoveu aumento das concentrações séricas de 25-hidroxicolecalciferol [25(OH)D], Hb, hematócrito, hematimetria, IL-10 (coração) e reduziu IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α e EPO (rim); os animais diabéticos tratados com insulina, em relação aos animais diabéticos suplementados com colecalciferol apresentaram aumento do peso corpóreo, de ureia sérica, IL-6 e TNF-α (coração) e redução da glicemia, das concentrações séricas de lactato, de IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10 e EPO (rim); os animais -que receberam ambos os hormônios, em relação aos animais tratados com insulina, apresentaram aumento sérico de insulina e lactato; os animais diabéticos que receberam ambos os hormônios, em relação aos animais diabéticos tratados com colecalciferol, exibiram aumento sérico de 25(OH)D, de insulina, além da redução das concentrações de IL-10, da razão de TNF-α/IL-10 e TNF-α/IL-6 (coração); animais diabéticos que receberam ambos os hormônios, em relação aos diabéticos não suplementados com colecalciferol, exibiram: aumento de insulina sérica e redução das concentrações séricas de ureia e das razões renal e hepática de TNF-α/IL-6; células RAW 264.7 estimuladas pelo LPS e tratadas com 100 nM colecalciferol exibiram maior expressão da CYP27B1 e redução na liberação de mediadores inflamatórios quando comparadas ao grupo estimulado pelo LPS. Entretanto, não foi observado o mesmo efeito nos MP. Em conjunto, os resultados sugerem que: 1) em animais diabéticos, o colecalciferol pode modular parâmetros hematológicos e que a insulina pode melhorar a função renal, bem como a recuperação do peso corporal; 2) o colecalciferol pode ser metabolizado pelas células RAW 264.7 e modular a resposta imunológica desencadeada pelo LPS

The effects caused by the treatment of insulin and cholecalciferol in diabetic subjects are not completely elucidated. The present study evaluated the effect of both hormones on the kidneys, liver, heart and hematological parameters of healthy and diabetic male mice (C57BL/6), as well as the action of cholecalciferol (in vitro) on the immune response developed by the cells RAW 264.7 and peritoneal macrophages (MP) after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). After ten days of alloxan administration (60 mg/kg), diabetic animals exhibited a reduction in body weight gain and hyperglycemia when compared to animals that received saline. On the seventh day of the experimental period, it was verified that diabetic animals that did not receive any hormones, in relation to non-diabetics, showed reduction of body weight, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, hematimetry, insulin, TNF-α and IL- 6 (heart) and increased glycemia, body weight / left kidney weight, serum urea, creatinine, Phosphatase Alkaline, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and lactate levels, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) interleukin (IL) -6 and IL-10 (in the kidney); diabetic mice treated with insulin (1 IU / 300 mg/dL glycemia) in relation to untreated diabetic animals promoted increased body weight, serum insulin levels and blood glucose lowering, serum urea levels and TNF-α ratio / IL-10 (heart); diabetic animals treated with cholecalciferol (800 IU/day), in relation to untreated diabetic animals, exhibited increased serum levels of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol [25 (OH) D], Hb, hematocrit, hematimetry, IL-10 (heart) and reduced IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and EPO (kidney);insulin-treated diabetic animals compared to diabetic animals supplemented with cholecalciferol exhibited an increase of body weight, serum urea, IL-6 and TNF-α (heart) and a reduction of glycaemia, serum lactate levels, IL-6, TNF- α, IL-10 and EPO (kidney); animals that received both hormones, compared to animals treated with insulin exhibited an increase of insulin and lactate serum levels; diabetic animals that received both hormones, compared to diabetic animals treated with cholecalciferol, exhibited an increase of 25(OH)D and insulin serum levels, and a reduction of IL-10, TNF-α/IL-10 and TNF-α/IL-6 ratios (heart); diabetic animals that received both hormones, compared to diabetic animals not supplemented with cholecalciferol, exhibited an increase of insulin and reduced urea serum levels and reduced renal and hepatic TNF-α/IL-6 ratios; LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and treated with 100 nM cholecalciferol exhibited greater CYP27B1 expression and reduced release of inflammatory mediators when compared to the LPS-stimulated group. However, the same effect was not observed in PM. Taken together, the results suggest that: 1) in diabetic animals, cholecalciferol may modulate hematological parameters and that insulin may improve renal function as well as recovery of body weight; 2) cholecalciferol can be metabolized by RAW 264.7 cells and modulate the immune response triggered by LPS

Perfil de citocinas em recém-nascidos prematuros utilizando amostras de sangue coletadas em papel filtro: correlação com desfechos clínicos desfavoráveis / Cytokines in preterm newborns using blood samples collected on filter paper: correlation with unfavorable clinical outcomes

INTRODUÇÃO: A identificação precoce de citocinas pode favorecer a condução clínica e adoção de medidas preventivas na população neonatal. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os níveis séricos de Interleucinas (IL) 2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, Interferon gama (IFN-γ), Fator de Necrose Tumoral alfa (TNF-α) e Fator Estimulador de Colônias de Granulócitos e Mastócitos (GM-CSF) nas primeiras três horas de vida de recém-nascidos prematuros através de coleta de sangue em papel filtro. MÉTODOS: Estudo analítico observacional prospectivo desenvolvido com 34 recém-nascidos prematuros com idade gestacional entre 28 e 32 semanas. As dosagens foram feitas com 10, 60 e 180 minutos de vida em papel filtro. Utilizado o reagente Bio-Plex ProT Human Cytokine Standard 8 plex, Group I BIO-RAD e as leituras realizadas com Luminex 100. RESULTADOS: Houve associação entre sepse e a presença de IFN-γ e TNF-α com 10, 60 e 180 minutos de vida. A associação entre sepse e a presença de IL-6 foi observada com 180 minutos de vida. Níveis reduzidos de GM-CSF na primeira hora de vida foram relacionados à hipotermia (p=0,005) à admissão na unidade neonatal. CONCLUSÃO: A detecção dos níveis de citocinas em papel filtro é viável nas primeiras horas de vida de recém-nascidos prematuros. As vantagens são a facilidade de coleta, armazenamento, transporte e utilização de pequenos volumes. O IFN-γ e TNF-α e IL-6 podem ser considerados marcadores para o desenvolvimento de sepse nessa população. A redução dos níveis de GM-CSF em pacientes hipotérmicos favorecendo quadros de neutropenia aponta para a importância da prevenção da hipotermia. (AU)

Introduction: Early identification of cytokines may favor clinical management and the adoption of preventive measures. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the serum levels of IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL- 10, Interferon gamma (IFN-γ), Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) and Stimulating Factor of Granulocyte and Mast Cell Colonies (GMCSF) in the first three hours of life of preterm newborns through blood collection on filter paper. Methods: Prospective observational analytical study developed with 34 preterm infants with gestational age between 28 and 32 weeks. Measurements were made at 10, 60 and 180 minutes of life on filter paper. Used Bio-Plex Pro T Human Cytokine Standard 8 plex reagent, Group I BIO-RAD and readings performed through the Luminex 100. Results: There was an association between sepsis and the presence of IFN-γ and TNF-α at 10, 60 and 180 minutes of life. Association between sepsis and the presence of IL-6 was observed with 180 minutes. Reduced levels of GM-CSF in the first hour of life were related to hypothermia on admission to the neonatal unit (p=0.005). Conclusion: The detection of levels of cytokines in samples collected on filter paper showed to be viable in the first few hours of life with the following advantages: ease of collection, storage / transport and the use of small volumes. IFN-γ and TNF-α and IL-6 may be considered promising markers for the development of sepsis in this population. The reduction of levels of GM-CSF in hypothermic patients favoring neutropenia alerts the need for preventive care of this condition. (AU)

A phase III, randomized, non-inferiority study comparing the efficacy and safety of biosimilar filgrastim versus originator filgrastim for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in breast cancer patients

OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy and safety of two filgrastim formulations for controlling chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and to evaluate the non-inferiority of the test drug relative to the originator. METHODS: This phase III non-inferiority study had a randomized, multicenter, and open-label design. The patients were randomized at a ratio of 1:1 with a follow-up period of 6 weeks for each patient. In both study arms, filgrastim was administered subcutaneously at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg body weight. The primary endpoint was the rate of grade 4 neutropenia in the first treatment cycle. The secondary endpoints were the duration of grade 4 neutropenia, the generation of anti-filgrastim antibodies, and the rates of adverse events, laboratory abnormalities, febrile neutropenia, and neutropenia of any grade. RESULTS: The primary efficacy analysis demonstrated the non-inferiority of the test drug compared with the originator drug; the upper limit of the 90% confidence interval (CI) for the rate of neutropenia between the two groups (12.61%) was lower than the established margin of non-inferiority. The two treatments were similar with respect to the secondary endpoints and safety. CONCLUSION: The efficacy and safety profile of the test drug were similar to those of the originator product based on the rate of grade 4 neutropenia in the first treatment cycle. This study supports Anvisa’s approval of the first biosimilar drug manufactured by the Brazilian industry (Fiprima¯).

Duration of filgrastim prophylaxis for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and its predictors / 中华肿瘤杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the duration of preventive filgrastim administration as support for chemotherapy and its affecting factors.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Single institutional data from a phase Ⅱ clinical trial and a phase Ⅲ clinical trial of pegylated filgrastim were combined. In the two randomized cross-over trials, patients with previously untreated cancer received two cycles of chemotherapy of the same regimen. In the study group, the patients received a single subcutaneous injection of 100 μg/kg pegylated filgrastim, and in the control group, they received daily subcutaneous injections of 5 μg/kg filgrastim.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In 53 chemotherapy cycles, the median duration of filgrastim administration was (9.57±2.10)d. 83.0% (44/53) of them received filgrastim for 7-11 days. Patients with baseline absolute neutrophil count of <4×10(9)/L or body mass index less than 22 received a longer filgrastim prophylaxis(P<0.05). RESULTS of multivariate analysis showed that the baseline absolute neutrophil count is associated with the time of filgrastim administration(P=0.019). The most common adverse event of rhG-CSF was skeletal pain, generally mild and no treatment-related death occurred.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The median duration of filgrastim support for chemotherapy was 10 days. Patients with lower baseline neutrophil count require a longer filgrastim prophylaxis.</p><p><b>TRIAL REGISTRATION</b>: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT01285219.</p>

Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and biological activities of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf extracts / 中国天然药物

Cymbopogon citratus is a widely distributed perennial herb belonging to the Poaceae family and has been extensively consumed for its medicinal, cosmetic, and nutritional effects for centuries. A large number of reports have been published describing the pharmacological, biological, and therapeutic actions of this herb. In this review, we summarized the literatures on related studies (up to January, 2014) that highlighted the pharmacologic and biological effects of the major phytochemicals isolated from C. citratus extracts and its essential oil. The components of the essential oils found in C. citratus have a similar pharmacokinetic properties, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. They are quickly absorbed following oral, pulmonary, and dermal administration. Based on the published reports, it can also be inferred that, after absorption from the small intestine, some phytochemicals in C. citratus can undergo oxidation, glucuronidation, sulfation, and/or O-methylation. Excretion is through urine, feces and/or expired volatiles. The biotransformation reactions of C. citratus bioactive constituents are essential for its relatively safe consumption and therapeutic applications. The data available so far warrant further studies evaluating C. citratus pharmacokinetics. Reliable pharmacokinetic data in humans would be critical for a better understanding of the the systemic handling of C. citratus.

Comparação entre Floseal® e eletrocauterio na hemostasia após artroplastia total do joelho / Comparison of Floseal® and electrocautery in hemostasis after total knee arthroplasty

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a hemostasia com eletrocauterização em comparação ao uso do Floseal® durante artroplastias totais primárias de joelho, leva a diferentes taxas de sangramento peri-operatório.MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo comparativo entre dois grupos: grupo de estudo com 10 casos de próteses primárias consecutivas com o uso do Floseal® como método hemostático, e grupo controle com 10 casos de próteses primárias consecutivas com uso de eletrocauterização como método hemostático. Foram avaliados parâmetros de sangramento como debito do dreno, infusão de líquidos, queda dos valores de hemoglobina e índice de transfusões sanguíneas.RESULTADOS: O grupo que fez uso de Floseal® apresentou em números absolutos menores valores de sangramento em relação ao grupo que fez hemostasia com eletrocautério tanto no débito do dreno pós-operatório quanto na infusão de líquidos e quantidade de transfusões sanguíneas. Nenhum parâmetro, porém, foi estatisticamente significativamente.CONCLUSÃO: A hemostasia com uso do Floseal® se mostrou semelhante à hemostasia com uso do eletrocautério, tornando-o uma alternativa aos pacientes que tenham contraindicação ao uso do bisturi elétrico.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether hemostasis with eletrocauterization in comparison with Floseal® leads to different bleeding rates during total knee arthroplasty.METHODS: A comparative study was performed between two groups: group with ten consecutive total knee arthroplasties with Floseal® used as hemostatic method and control group with ten consecutive total knee arthroplasties with eletrocauterization as hemostatic method. Bleeding parameters such as debit of the drain, liquid infusion and blood transfusion rate were recorded.RESULTS: Floseal® group received less blood transfusion, less liquid infusion and lower drainage in absolute numbers compared to the control group. However, no parameter was statistically significant.CONCLUSION: Hemostasis with Floseal® is as effective as hemostasis with eletrocauterization, what makes it a viable alternative to patients with contraindication to electric scalpel use.Level of Evidence II, Prospective Comparative Study.

Aspectos hematológicos de caprinos (Capra hircus) da raça Canindé criados no Rio Grande do Norte / Hematological aspects of Canindé goats (Capra hircus) raised in Rio Grande do Norte

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar o perfil hematológico de caprinos (Capra hircus) da raça Canindé, criados no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, como também a busca de valores de referência que se adequem à nossa região. Foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas de 58 animais clinicamente sadios, distribuídos em 4 grupos (machos acima de 5 meses, fêmeas gestantes, fêmeas não gestantes e filhotes até 4 meses de idade). A partir de única amostra de sangue de cada animal foram realizados o eritrograma (contagem de hemácias, hematócrito, hemoglobina, volume corpuscular médio e concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média) e o leucograma (contagem total e diferencial de leucócitos). Os dados obtidos foram avaliados por meio do teste de Tukey para variáveis paramétricas e Kruskal-Wallis seguido pelo teste de Dunn para não paramétricos em nível de significância de (p<0.05). Os resultados apontam para existência de maiores quantidades de He nos machos adultos e fêmeas não gestantes, diferente do que ocorre com o VCM; já com relação ao leucograma temos que os eosinófilos mostram-se mais elevados nas fêmeas adultas e os monócitos se elevam quando na presença da gestação. Os valores deste trabalho podem servir de referência para raça Canindé, tornando possível futuras interpretações para os parâmetros verificados, além de subsidiar novos estudos em animais hígidos ou doentes. Mostra a necessidade de pesquisas que evidenciem as condições semiáridas de manejo e alimentação, bem como a avaliação dos fatores de variação, sobre constituintes do sangue, que levem em conta o sexo, a idade e estado fisiológico dos animais.(AU)

The objective of this paper was to study the hematological profile of Canindé breed goats (Capra hircus) raised in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, as well as the acquirement of reference values appropriate to our region. Blood samples were collected from 58 clinically healthy animals, distributed in 4 groups (males, over 5-month-old, pregnant and not pregnant females and young goats, up to 4 months of age). From a single blood sample from each animal, it was possible to perform the red blood cell (RBC) count, packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin, mean cell volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and the white blood cell (WBC) count and differential). The obtained data was statically evaluated by the Tukey test for parametric variables and Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's test for nonparametric-level significance (p<0.05). The results of this study can be used as a reference for this breed of goats, making future interpretations possible from the evaluated parameters, and can support further studies in healthy or diseased animals. It shows the need for further research that demonstrates the semiarid conditions of handling and feeding, as well as assessment of variation factors on the constituents of blood taking into account sex, age and the physiological state of animals.(AU)

Hematological and immunological effects of stress of air traffic controllers in northeastern Brazil

BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that stress and emotional reactions can affect immune responses in animals and humans. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate hematological and immunological effects of stress on air traffic controllers. METHODS: Thirty air traffic controllers and 15 aeronautical information service operators were evaluated. The groups were divided as information service operators with 10 years or more of experience (AIS>10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (AIS<10) and air traffic controllers with 10 years or more of experience (ATCo>10) and with less than 10 years in the profession (ATCo<10). Blood samples were drawn at 8:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The paired t-test was used to compare monocyte and nitric oxide concentrations and ANOVA was used for the other parameters. RESULTS: The ATCo>10 group presented a significantly lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes at 2:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. Moreover, the ATCo>10 group presented lower hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelet and leukocyte levels, and increased cortisol concentrations at 8:00 a.m. compared to the other groups. Additionally, this group had lower phagocytosis rate of monocytes, and hemoglobin, platelet, leukocyte, basophils and nitric oxide levels at 2:00 p.m. compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Stress seems to greatly affect immune responses of air traffic controllers with more than ten years of experience.

Variaciones hematológicas en pacientes con malaria causada por Plasmodium vivax antes, durante y después del tratamiento / Hematologic variations in patient with malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax before, during and after treatment

Para determinar la relación entre parámetros hematológicos, parasitemia y episodios maláricos, se evaluaron 59 individuos de ambos sexos, infectados con Plasmodium vivax y 30 controles del estado Sucre. Se extrajeron muestras de sangre por punción venosa y del lóbulo de la oreja el día del diagnóstico, a los 8 y 30 días postdiagnosis. Se realizó hematología completa, diagnóstico microscópico y molecular (PCR) y grado de parasitemia. Se encontraron diferencias significativas por sexo para la hemoglobina, eritrocitos y hematocrito (p < 0,01 en los tres análisis). Estos valores en los hombres disminuyeron para el día 8 del tratamiento con respecto al día 0 (p < 0,001; p = 0,006 y p = 0,025, respectivamente). En las mujeres, se observaron diferencias sólo entre los controles y los pacientes a las fechas de muestreo para hemoglobina y hematocrito (p < 0,001). El número promedio de los leucocitos para el día diagnóstico se ubicó dentro de los parámetros de referencia, pero significativamente por debajo (p < 0,001) de los del grupo control y de los obtenidos para durante y después del tratamiento. Los valores de eosinófilos se observaron por encima de los parámetros normales en los controles y los pacientes durante y después del tratamiento. Se observó trombocitopenia el día diagnóstico, pero a la semana del tratamiento los valores aumentaron significativamente (p < 0,001). La correlación de los parámetros evaluados con la parasitemia demostró una relación negativa con las plaquetas, y una positiva con la diferencia de plaquetas entre el día diagnóstico y día 8 de tratamiento (p = 0,014). Esta diferencia fue el único parámetro que se correlacionó con los episodios maláricos (p = 0,040). La trombocitopenia demostró ser un indicador de malaria aguda.

In order to determine the relationship between hematological parameters, parasitaemia and malaria episodes, we evaluated 59 individuals of both sexes, infected with Plasmodium vivax and 30 controls from Sucre state. Blood samples were obtained by venous puncture and from the earlobe at day of diagnosis, 8 and 30 days post-diagnosis. We carried out hematological analysis, microscopic and molecular (PCR) diagnosis and the parasitaemia was calculated. There were significant differences by sex for hemoglobin, erythrocytes and hematocrit (p < 0,01 in all three analysis). These values in males, decreased by day 8 with respect to day 0 (p < 0,001; p = 0,006 y p = 0,025, respectively). In females, significant differences were only seen in hemoglobin and hematocrit between controls and patients (p < 0,001). The average number of leucocytes at the day of diagnosis was within the reference values, but slightly lower compared to the controls and the samples during and after the treatment. The average proportion of eosinophils was higher than normal for both, controls and patients, during and after the treatment. Thrombocytopenia was observed at diagnosis, but a week after, the values increased significantly (p < 0,001). There was an inverse relationship between parasitaemia and platelet count and a direct relationship between the first and hemoglobin at day 0, as well as with the difference in platelet counts between day 0 and day 8 (p = 0,044 y p = 0,014, respectively). This difference was the only parameter related to the number of malaria episodes (p = 0,040). Thrombocytopenia showed to be an indicator of acute malaria.

Biochemical and toxicological studies of aqueous extract of syzigium aromaticum (l.) Merr. et Perry (myrtaceae) in Rodents

Abstract: The effects of long-term administration of boiled aqueous extract of Syzigium aromaticum (SYZ), commonly known as clove (which has been locally employed for treating gastrointestinal tract diseases and also used as food spices), on some biochemical indices, such as body weight, liver functions and blood parameters were studied in adult albino rats of both sexes. Selected doses of 300 and 700 mg kg-1 were given orally through cannular to groups of animals for a period of 90 days, while the control group received distilled water throughout the duration of study via the same route. Blood samples collected after therapy and assayed for activities of some liver enzymes recorded a significant (p<0.05) and prominent effect on ALP and AST. Measurement of haematological parameters also revealed significant effects (p<0.05; p<0.001) on Hb, RBC (p<0.05), PCV (p<0.001), platelets (p<0.001) and granulocytes (p<0.001). An insignificant reduction was recorded for total WBC. The histopathological study conducted was in consonance with the results of the biochemical investigations that the aqueous extract of SYZ even at moderate doses, significantly affects body organs, their enzymes as well as the various functions. LD50 for both intraperitoneal and oral routes of SYZ were 263 and 2500 mg kg-1 respectively. The present work has revealed the toxicity of sub chronic administration of SYZ, which suggests that its prolonged usage must be avoided

Exploration on effect and mechanism of activating blood circulation to remove stasis method on angiogenesis / 中国中西医结合杂志

Activating blood circulation to remove stasis method is an important therapy of TCM, which can be matched with various methods, as qi-supplementing, qi-regulating, heat-clearing with detoxication, meridian warming, wind-dispelling to remove dampness, yin-nourishing, phlegm-dissolving to alleviate depression and visceral dredging by purgation, to produce various effects on angiogenesis. Its positive or negative impacts on quality or quantity of angio-genetic regulatory factor play a crucial part for the effects. This article explores the effect and mechanism of activating blood circulation to remove stasis method on angiogenesis bi-directionally.

Experiencia en intercomparación de parámetros hematológicos empleando sangre fresca / Hematologic parameters interapperance experience fresh blood emplear

Se practicó una dinámica de evaluación externa experimental en hematología, empleando sangre fresca sin preservantes. Fue corroborada su homogeneidad y bioseguridad, transportada en cadena de frío a 33 laboratorios clínicos del Área Metropolitana de Caracas y establecidos los valores de referencia en el laboratorio organizador. Los coeficientes de variación encontrados fueron para hemoglobina (Hb) 5,1 por ciento, hematocrito (Hto) 5,4 por ciento, recuento de glóbulos blancos (GB) 8,7 por ciento, recuento de glóbulos rojos (GR) 4,3 por ciento, recuento de plaquetas (PLQ) 8,0 por ciento, VCM 3,2 por ciento, CHCM 4,2 por ciento y HCM 4,2 por ciento, considerados satisfactorios. Los índices de Desviación (ID) obtenidos fueron satisfactorios (ID<2,0) en un 97,0 por ciento para GB, 90,9 por ciento Hb, 66,7 por ciento PLQ, 63,6 por ciento GR, 48,5 por ciento Hto, 27,2 por ciento VCM; e inaceptables (ID>2,0) en un 81,8 por ciento para CHCM y 93,9 por ciento para HCM, posiblemente ligado a problemas de calibración de los instrumentos. La sangre fresca constituye una alternativa práctica y económica que puede impulsar la realización de programas de intercomparación a nivel local.

A dynamics of experimental external evaluation in hematology was carried out, employing fresh blood without preservatives. It was corroborated its homogeneity and biosafety, it was transported in chain of cold to the 33 participating clinical laboratories and established the reference values in our laboratory. The coefficient of variation found were: 5.1 percent Hemoglobin (HB), 5.4 percent haematocrit (HTO), 8.7 percent white blood cells (WBC), 4.2 percent red blood cells (RBC), 8.0 percent platelets (PLT), 3.2 percent MCV, 4.2 percent MCHC and 4,3 percent MHC, all considered satisfactory. The deviation index (DI) obtained were: satisfactory (DI<2.0) 97.0 percent WBC, 90.9 percent HB, 66.7 percent PLT, 63.6 percent RBC, 48.5 percent HTO, 27.2 percent MCV; unsatisfactory (DI>2.0) 81.8 percent MCHC and 93.9 percent MHC, this probably related to calibration problems of the instruments. Fresh blood constitutes a practical and economic alternative that can impulse the realization of intercomparison programs at local level.

Efecto antiparasitario del pamoato de pirantel/oxantel y metronidazol y su relación con parámetros hematológicos, en escolares de la escuela "Ascanio José Velásquez" de Cumaná, estado Sucre / Antiparasite effect of oxantel/pyrantel pamoate and metronidazol on haematological parameters in school children from

Se evaluó el efecto antiparasitario del pamoato de pirantel/oxantel y metronidazol y su relación con parámetros hematológicos, en 166 niños entre 3-14 años de la escuela “Ascanio José Velásquez”, Cumaná. Se recolectaron heces frescas a las que se les realizó examen coproparasitológico directo, el método de Ritchie, cultivo de heces en agar, Kato-Katz cuantificado y cuantificación de protozoarios. Además, se extrajo muestras de sangre para las determinaciones hematológicas. Se emplearon métodos clásicos para determinaciones hematológicas. Se emplearon métodos clásicos para determinar eficacia y porcentaje de cura de los medicamentos. Durante las semanas 1, 4 y 9 post tratamiento se determinó el nhpgh de helmintos, número quistes protozoarios y parámetros hematológicos. La prevalencia de parasitosis intestinal fue 85,54 por ciento (142/166), con predominio de poliparasitismo (62,56 por ciento; 103/166); A. lumbricoides y T. trichiura resultaron los helmintos más frecuentes; B. hominis y E. nana fueron los protozoarios más reportados. El grupo erario más afectado fue el de 7-10 años, encontrándose diferencias significativas entre edad y grado de infección para A. lumbricoides (X²= 6,67; p<0,05) y B. hominis (X²= 8,28; p<0,05). La eficacia de los medicamentos fue elevada, con excepción de T. trichiura, frente al cual la eficacia del pamoato de pirantel/oxantel fue inferior a lo esperado. Se encontró diferencias significativas entre los valores de hemoglobina para los niños tratados con pamoato de pirantel/oxantel (F= 3,95; p<0,05) y metronidazol (F= 3,67; p<0,05), y entre los valores de hematocrito para ambos medicamentos (F= 4,21; p<0,05) y (F= 4,00; p<0,05), respectivamente