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Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of excessive and premature mortality in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). Despite immune cells participating considerably in the pathogenesis of CVD, limited data are available regarding leukocyte phenotypes in patients with BD and CVD. This study aimed to evaluate associations between circulating leukocyte subset and CVD among patients with BD. Methods: A total of 109 patients with BD-I and cardiologist-confirmed CVD diagnosis (i.e., case) were matched with 109 BD-I patients without CVD (i.e., control) according to the age (± 2 years), sex, and date of most recent psychiatric admission because of acute mood episode (± 2 years). Leukocyte subset data were retrieved from complete blood count tests performed on the next morning after the most recent acute psychiatric admission. Results: During the most recent acute psychiatric hospitalization, circulating monocyte counts in the case group were significantly higher than those in the age- and sex-matched controls (p = 0.020). In addition, monocyte–lymphocyte ratios (MLRs) in the case group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p = 0.032). Multiple logistic regression showed that together with serum levels of uric acid and manic symptoms, circulating monocyte counts (95% CI, OR: 1.01–1.05) and MLRs (95% CI, OR: 1.01–1.09) were significantly associated with CVD in patients with BD, respectively. Conclusions: Monocyte activation in an acute manic episode may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of CVD among patients with BD. Future research is required to investigate markers of monocyte activation and indices of cardiovascular structure and function across the different mood states of BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The predictive value of changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, and leukocyte levels, which are commonly used in the diagnosis of infection in sepsis and septic shock, remains a topic of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of changes in CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocyte counts on the prognosis of 230 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with the diagnosis of sepsis and pneumonia-related septic shock between 1 April 2022 and 31 December 2023, and to investigate whether any of these markers have a superior predictive value over the others in forecasting prognosis. Materials and Methods: This single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional observational study included patients who developed sepsis and septic shock due to community-acquired pneumonia and were admitted to the ICU. Demographic data, 1-month and 90-day mortality rates, length of stay in the ICU, discharge to the ward or an outside facility, need for dialysis after sepsis, need for invasive or noninvasive mechanical ventilation during the ICU stay and the duration of this support, whether patients admitted with sepsis or septic shock required inotropic agent support during their stay in the ICU and whether they received monotherapy or combination therapy with antibiotics during their admission to the ICU, the Comorbidity Index score (CCIS), CURB-65 score (confusion, uremia, respiratory rate, BP, age ≥ 65), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE-II) score were analyzed. Additionally, CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocyte levels were recorded, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate their effects on 1- and 3-month mortality outcomes. In all statistical analyses, a p-value of <0.05 was accepted as a significant level. Results: According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, low BMI, male gender, and high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores were found to be significantly associated with both 1-month and 3-month mortality (p < 0.05). Although there was no significant relationship between the first-day levels of leukocytes, CRP, and PCT and mortality, their levels on the third day were observed to be at their highest in both the 1-month and 3-month mortality cases (p < 0.05). Additionally, a concurrent increase in any two or all three of CRP, PCT, and leukocyte values was found to be higher in patients with 3-month mortality compared with those who survived (p = 0.004). Conclusions: In patients with pneumoseptic or pneumonia-related septic shock, the persistent elevation and concurrent increase in PCT, CRP, and leukocyte values, along with male gender, advanced age, low BMI, and high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores, were found to be significantly associated with 3-month mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Edulis Fungi is the property of Acta Edulis Fungi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a common procedure for evaluation of the equine lower airways. Time to resolution of post‐BAL inflammation has not been clearly defined. Hypothesis: Residual inflammation, evident by changes in immune cell populations and inflammatory cytokines, will resolve by 72 hours after BAL. Animals: Six adult, healthy, institution‐owned horses. Methods: Randomized, complete cross‐over design. Each horse underwent 3 paired BALs, including a baseline and then 48, 72, and 96 hours later, with a 7‐day washout between paired BALs. Each sample underwent cytological evaluation and cytokine concentrations were determined by a commercially available multiplex bead immunoassay. Statistical analysis was performed by multilevel mixed‐effects Poisson regression analysis. Data are reported as marginal means and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Neutrophil, eosinophil and mast cell percentages were not significantly different at any time points. Macrophage percentages were higher at 72 hours (45.0 [95% CI, 41.6‐48.4]%) and 96 hours (45.3 [95% CI, 42.9‐47.7]%) vs baseline (37.4 [95% CI, 33.5‐41.4]%; P <.001 and P =.01, respectively), and at 72 hours and 96 hours vs 48 hours (31.9 [95% CI, 28.1‐35.6]%; P <.001). Neutrophil percentage was not significantly increased at 48 hours (P =.11). Interleukin (IL)‐6 concentration was increased at 72 hours (5.22 [95% CI, 3.44‐6.99] pg/mL) vs 48 hours (4.38 [95% CI, 2.99‐5.78] pg/mL; P <.001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Significant lung inflammation was not detected at 72 and 96 hours, suggesting that repeating BAL at 72 hours or more can be done without concern of residual inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A number of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) cases may be misdiagnosed as transient ischemic attack (TIA), due to no infarct on initial computed tomography scan and/or mild deficits upon presentation. Several studies have found that the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an accurate differential diagnostic biomarker for AIS versus TIA; however, no study has evaluated the use of the NLR in differentiating CT negative AIS from TIA. Furthermore, the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a relatively novel immune biomarker that has been shown to be positively correlated with AIS severity, poor functional outcomes and mortality. The purpose of this study is to determine if NLR or SII can be used as a diagnostic biomarker for the differential diagnosis of mild AIS with a negative CT upon admission and TIA. Methods: We performed a retrospective medical record review of patients diagnosed with either AIS or TIA. We collected peripheral white blood cell counts within 24 h of symptom onset and calculated the NLR and SII. Logistic regression was utilized to determine if NLR or SII are significant predictors of CT negative mild AIS. Results: CT negative mild AIS patients were 2 times as likely to have an NLR ≥ 2.71 compared to TIA patients, and CT negative mild AIS patients were 2.1 times as likely to have an SII ≥ 595 compared to TIA patients. Conclusion: NLR and SII are easily obtained biomarkers that can be used in early clinical decision making in cases of mild AIS with negative CT scan upon admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in using extracellular vesicles (EVs) for therapeutic applications. EVs are composed of cytoplasmic proteins and nucleic acids and an external lipid bilayer containing transmembrane proteins on their surfaces. EVs can alter the state of the target cells by interacting with the receptor ligand of the target cell or by being internalised by the target cell. Blood cells are the primary source of EVs, and 1 μL of plasma contains approximately 1.5 × 107 EVs. Owing to their easy acquisition and the avoidance of cell amplification in vitro , using blood cells as a source of therapeutic EVs has promising clinical application prospects. This review summarises the characteristics and biological functions of EVs derived from different blood cell types (platelets, erythrocytes, and leukocytes) and analyses the prospects and challenges of using them for clinical therapeutic applications. In summary, blood cell-derived EVs can regulate different cell types such as immune cells (macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells), stem cells, and somatic cells, and play a role in intercellular communication, immune regulation, and cell proliferation. Overall, blood cell-derived EVs have the potential for use in vascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, degenerative diseases, and injuries. To promote the clinical translation of blood cell-derived EVs, researchers need to perform further studies on EVs in terms of scalable and reproducible isolation technology, quality control, safety, stability and storage, regulatory issues, cost-effectiveness, and long-term efficacy. [Display omitted] • Blood contains EVs derived from platelets, erythrocytes, and leukocytes. • Blood cell-derived EVs regulate intercellular communication and immune responses. • Blood cell-derived EVs have therapeutic potential in various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bagcilar Medical Bulletin / Bağcılar Tıp Bülteni is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of excessive and premature mortality in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). Despite immune cells participating considerably in the pathogenesis of CVD, limited data are available regarding leukocyte phenotypes in patients with BD and CVD. This study aimed to evaluate associations between circulating leukocyte subset and CVD among patients with BD. Methods A total of 109 patients with BD-I and cardiologist-confirmed CVD diagnosis (i.e., case) were matched with 109 BD-I patients without CVD (i.e., control) according to the age (± 2 years), sex, and date of most recent psychiatric admission because of acute mood episode (± 2 years). Leukocyte subset data were retrieved from complete blood count tests performed on the next morning after the most recent acute psychiatric admission. Results During the most recent acute psychiatric hospitalization, circulating monocyte counts in the case group were significantly higher than those in the age- and sex-matched controls (p = 0.020). In addition, monocyte–lymphocyte ratios (MLRs) in the case group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p = 0.032). Multiple logistic regression showed that together with serum levels of uric acid and manic symptoms, circulating monocyte counts (95% CI, OR: 1.01–1.05) and MLRs (95% CI, OR: 1.01–1.09) were significantly associated with CVD in patients with BD, respectively. Conclusions Monocyte activation in an acute manic episode may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of CVD among patients with BD. Future research is required to investigate markers of monocyte activation and indices of cardiovascular structure and function across the different mood states of BD.

Objective: Many studies have investigated the relationship of hematological, biochemical, immunological, and inflammatory markers with clinical severity during severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In this study, we determined the use of Pentraxin-3 as an acute phase marker in infection diagnosis, follow-up, and prognosis. Method: The study was initiated after ethics committee approval and consent from the patients and their relatives. A total of 167 children, including 103 outpatients and inpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and a control group consisting of 64 healthy children, were included in the study. The treatments, symptoms, radiological pneumonia findings, leukocyte count, absolute lymphocyte and neutrophil counts, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, C-reactive protein (CRP) and Pentraxin-3 values of the patients were recorded and compared with those of the control group. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the patient and control groups in terms of age and gender (p>0.05). The mean absolute neutrophil and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios of the study group were significantly higher than those of the control group. CRP, ferritin averages, and CRP >5 mg/L ratio of the study group were significantly higher than those of the control group. Although Pentraxin-3 values were higher in the study group, no statistically significant difference was found between the control group and the study group. Ferritin levels were found to be significantly higher in inpatients than in the outpatient group. Conclusion: We found high CRP, absolute neutrophil count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte count, and platelet count in children with SARS-CoV-2 infection. It should be noted that patients with high ferritin values may require inpatient treatment at the time of admission. Although Pentraxin-3 values were higher in the study group, no statistically significant difference was found. Further studies with larger patient groups are needed to use Pentraxin-3 as a prognostic indicator in SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Abstract Background Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a common procedure for evaluation of the equine lower airways. Time to resolution of post‐BAL inflammation has not been clearly defined. Hypothesis Residual inflammation, evident by changes in immune cell populations and inflammatory cytokines, will resolve by 72 hours after BAL. Animals Six adult, healthy, institution‐owned horses. Methods Randomized, complete cross‐over design. Each horse underwent 3 paired BALs, including a baseline and then 48, 72, and 96 hours later, with a 7‐day washout between paired BALs. Each sample underwent cytological evaluation and cytokine concentrations were determined by a commercially available multiplex bead immunoassay. Statistical analysis was performed by multilevel mixed‐effects Poisson regression analysis. Data are reported as marginal means and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results Neutrophil, eosinophil and mast cell percentages were not significantly different at any time points. Macrophage percentages were higher at 72 hours (45.0 [95% CI, 41.6‐48.4]%) and 96 hours (45.3 [95% CI, 42.9‐47.7]%) vs baseline (37.4 [95% CI, 33.5‐41.4]%; P

Abstract Decades of research in exercise immunology have demonstrated the profound impact of exercise on the immune response, influencing an individual's disease susceptibility. Accurate prediction of white blood cells (WBCs) count during exercise can help to design effective training programs to maintain optimal the immune system function and prevent its suppression. In this regard, this study aimed to develop an easy-to-use and efficient modelling tool for predicting WBCs count during exercise. To achieve this goal, the predictive power of a range of machine-learning algorithms, including six standalone models (M5 prime (M5P), random forest (RF), alternating model trees (AMT), reduced error pruning tree (REPT), locally weighted learning (LWL), and support vector regression (SVR)) were assessed along with six types of hybrid models trained with a bagging (BA) algorithm (BA-M5P, BA-RF, BA-AMT, BA-REPT, BA-LWL, and BA- SVR). A comprehensive database was constructed from 200 eligible people. The models employed post-exercise training WBCs counts as the output parameter and seven WBCs-influencing factors, including intensity and duration of exercise, pre-exercise training WBCs counts, age, body fat percentage, maximal aerobic capacity, and muscle mass as input parameters. Comparing the prediction results of the models to the observed WBCs using standard statistics indicated that the BA-M5P model had the greatest potential to produce a robust prediction of the number of lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, and WBC compared to other models. Moreover, pre-exercise training WBCs counts, intensity and duration of exercise and body fat percentage were the most important features in predicting WBCs counts. These findings hold significant implications for the advancement of exercise immunology and the promotion of public health.

Abstract While previous observational studies have suggested a link between leukocyte counts and vascular dementia (VD), the causal relationship between leukocyte counts and various subtypes of VD remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between five types of leukocyte counts and VD, with the goal of improving prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, leukocyte counts were used as the exposure variable, with genome-wide association study (GWAS) data sourced from both the UK Biobank and the Blood Cell Consortium. Additionally, GWAS data for five subtypes of vascular dementia were obtained from the FinnGen database. We conducted rigorous statistical analysis and visualization using Mendelian randomization (MR) to elucidate the potential causal relationship between leukocyte counts and vascular dementia. This study, utilizing MR analysis with data from the UK Biobank and Blood Cell Consortium, identified significant causal associations between increased lymphocyte counts and VD. Specifically, lymphocyte counts were found to be causally related to multiple and mixed VD subtypes. Sensitivity analyses, including MR-Egger regression and MR-PRESSO tests, confirmed the robustness of these findings, with no evidence of reverse causality or significant horizontal pleiotropy detected. The results underscore a potential inflammatory or immunological mechanism in the pathogenesis of VD, highlighting lymphocytes as a key component in their etiology. This investigation establishes a robust association between elevated lymphocyte and leukocyte counts and an increased risk of VD, emphasizing the roles of inflammation, immune activation, and hematological factors in disease pathogenesis.

Pediatric bronchopneumonia is a prevalent life-threatening disease, particularly in developing countries. Affordable and accessible blood biomarkers are needed to predict disease severity which can be based on the Duration of Hospitalization (DOH).

Canine parvoviral enteritis (CPE) is a common, highly contagious viral disease characterized by severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in dogs. Leukopenia and neutropenia in dogs with parvoviral enteritis are considered negative prognostic indicators. This study aimed to investigate the effect of filgrastim [recombinant methionyl human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (r-metHuG-CSF)] on leukocyte counts in dogs with parvoviral enteritis. The animal material consisted of thirty-seven owned dogs with parvoviral enteritis from various breeds, which were brought to the Small Animal Clinic of the Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University. The dogs included in the study were divided into two groups. The first group received standard treatment (ST=18) and the second group received Filgrastim (ST+Filg=19) in addition to the standard treatment. For the assessment of leukocyte counts, blood samples were taken on day 0 (before starting treatment), day 3, and day 5 after treatment. It was observed that 16 out of the nineteen dogs treated with Filgrastim in addition to standard treatment (84.21%) showed improvement. In the ST+Filg group, the median WBC and neutrophil values on the 5th day after treatment were significantly higher than on the 0th day (P=0.001, P=0.006, respectively). In addition, the median WBC, lymphocyte and neutrophil values of the dogs in the ST+Filg group on the 3rd and 5th days after treatment were found to be significantly higher than the same day measurements of the ST group (P

While previous observational studies have suggested a link between leukocyte counts and vascular dementia (VD), the causal relationship between leukocyte counts and various subtypes of VD remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between five types of leukocyte counts and VD, with the goal of improving prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, leukocyte counts were used as the exposure variable, with genome-wide association study (GWAS) data sourced from both the UK Biobank and the Blood Cell Consortium. Additionally, GWAS data for five subtypes of vascular dementia were obtained from the FinnGen database. We conducted rigorous statistical analysis and visualization using Mendelian randomization (MR) to elucidate the potential causal relationship between leukocyte counts and vascular dementia. This study, utilizing MR analysis with data from the UK Biobank and Blood Cell Consortium, identified significant causal associations between increased lymphocyte counts and VD. Specifically, lymphocyte counts were found to be causally related to multiple and mixed VD subtypes. Sensitivity analyses, including MR-Egger regression and MR-PRESSO tests, confirmed the robustness of these findings, with no evidence of reverse causality or significant horizontal pleiotropy detected. The results underscore a potential inflammatory or immunological mechanism in the pathogenesis of VD, highlighting lymphocytes as a key component in their etiology. This investigation establishes a robust association between elevated lymphocyte and leukocyte counts and an increased risk of VD, emphasizing the roles of inflammation, immune activation, and hematological factors in disease pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed qualitative and quantitative leukocyte evaluation as potential broiler chicken welfare indicators, contributing to the limited literature on white blood cell (WBC) morphology as a diagnostic tool for welfare. Broiler chicken welfare within four poultry houses (PH) 1 to 4, each on a different farm, was assessed using on-field indicators of affective states and health, and WBC morphology was examined. Affective states were evaluated using the Qualitative Behavior Assessment (QBA), with 25 behavioral expressions scored on a visual analogue scale (VAS) and grouped into two categories. Health indicators included assessments of lameness, footpad dermatitis, dermatitis on the breast and abdominal areas, hock burn, and feather cleaning. Blood samples were collected, differential leukocyte counts were performed, and a cell score was created for the recognition, classification, and interpretation of morphologic diversity of heterophils and lymphocytes. The heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (H/L) was also determined. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear models for binomial responses were used to analyze the results. PH4 differed from the other farms, showing a higher frequency of birds within QBA group 1 ('Attentive' to 'Desperate'), while birds in PH1, PH2, and PH3 were more frequent in QBA group 2 ('Relaxed' to 'Positively occupied'). Elevated proportions of heterophils in birds from PH4 (0.61, CI95%: 0.58; 0.64) and PH3 (0.60, CI95%: 0.57; 0.63) suggested higher stress levels and inflammatory responses. Birds in PH2 and PH4 exhibited higher frequencies of health issues such as dermatitis and lameness, and higher proportions of abnormalities in WBC number and morphology. PH3 and PH4 exhibited higher H/L ratios of 3.03 and 2.58, respectively, consistent with the on-field health and behavioral indicators. Blood samples from birds in PH2 and PH4 showed a proportion of 90% toxic change in heterophils, while in PH1 and PH3 it was 70%, indicating high levels of abnormal WBC morphology across all PHs. The findings emphasize the multifactorial nature of welfare impairments, including environmental conditions, health, and affective states. This highlights the need for indicators that reflect multiple welfare impacts, such as WBC counts and morphological alterations, which can serve as powerful tools in the complex task of assessing animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine parvoviral enteritis (CPE) is a common, highly contagious viral disease characterized by severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis in dogs. Leukopenia and neutropenia in dogs with parvoviral enteritis are considered negative prognostic indicators. This study aimed to investigate the effect of filgrastim [recombinant methionyl human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (r-metHuG-CSF)] on leukocyte counts in dogs with parvoviral enteritis. The animal material consisted of thirty-seven owned dogs with parvoviral enteritis from various breeds, which were brought to the Small Animal Clinic of the Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University. The dogs included in the study were divided into two groups. The first group received standard treatment (ST=18) and the second group received Filgrastim (ST+Filg=19) in addition to the standard treatment. For the assessment of leukocyte counts, blood samples were taken on day 0 (before starting treatment), day 3, and day 5 after treatment. It was observed that 16 out of the nineteen dogs treated with Filgrastim in addition to standard treatment (84.21%) showed improvement. In the ST+Filg group, the median WBC and neutrophil values on the 5th day after treatment were significantly higher than on the 0th day (P=0.001, P=0.006, respectively). In addition, the median WBC, lymphocyte and neutrophil values of the dogs in the ST+Filg group on the 3rd and 5th days after treatment were found to be significantly higher than the same day measurements of the ST group (P<0.001). As a result, this study determined that filgrastim (r-metHuG-CSF) contributed positively to the improvement of leukopenia in dogs with CPE, in conjunction with clinical recovery. It was concluded that filgrastim (r-metHuG-CSF) may be included in treatment protocols as one of the immunostimulant drugs to increase leukocyte counts in the treatment of dogs with parvoviral enteritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the influence of serum leukocytes on urologic cancers (UC) using observation-based investigations. In the present study, Mendelian randomization (MR) was employed to assess the link between leukocyte count (LC) and the risk of UC development. Methods: Five LC and three major UC patient prognoses were obtained for MR analysis from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Furthermore, in order to evaluate reverse causality, bidirectional studies were conducted. Finally, a sensitivity analysis using multiple methods was carried out. Results: There was no significant correlation found in the genetic assessment of differential LC between the co-occurrence of bladder cancer (BCA) and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Conversely, an individual 1-standard deviation (SD) rise in neutrophil count was strongly linked to a 9.3% elevation in prostate cancer (PCA) risk ([odd ratio]OR = 1.093, 95% [confidence interval]CI = 0.864-1.383, p = 0.002). Reverse MR analysis suggested that PCA was unlikely to cause changes in neutrophil count. Additional sensitivity studies revealed that the outcomes of all MR evaluations were similar, and there was no horizontal pleiotropy. Primary MR analysis using inverse-variance weighted (IVW) revealed that differential lymphocyte count significantly influenced RCC risk (OR = 1.162, 95%CI = 0.918-1.470, p = 0.001). Moreover, altered basophil count also affected BCA risk (OR = 1.249, 95% CI = 0.904-1.725, p = 0.018). Nonetheless, these causal associations were not significant in the sensitivity analysis. Conclusion: In summary, the results revealed that increased neutrophil counts represent a significant PCA risk factor. The current research indicates a significant relationship between immune cell activity and the cause of UC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fucoidan is a polymer of L-fucose and L-fucose-4-sulphate naturally found in marine sources that inhibits p-selectin, preventing neutrophil recruitment to the site of injury. Fucoidan is employed in many studies as a tool to investigate the contribution of neutrophils to pain, showing analgesic effects. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify the analgesic effects of pretreatment with fucoidan reported in the available preclinical studies. In addition, we summarized the articles which have studied the therapeutic effects of fucoidan in pathological pain at preclinical and clinical levels. The results of this systematic review reveal that pretreatment with fucoidan is a powerful tool which reduces neutrophil infiltration by 70–90% at early time points. This meta-analysis showed that preventative treatment with fucoidan produced a significant pain reduction. In addition, several preclinical studies have observed that fucoidan treatment reduces the pain that is associated with various pathologies. Finally, fucoidan has also been tested in several clinical trials, with some degree of analgesic efficacy, but they were mostly small pilot studies. Considering all the above information, it can be concluded that fucoidan is not only a preclinical tool for studying the role of neutrophils in pain but also a promising therapeutic strategy for pain treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No clear consensus has emerged from the literature on the gene expression changes that occur in human whole blood with age. In this study we compared whole blood ageing genes from the published literature with data on gene specificity for leukocyte subtypes. Surprisingly we found that highly ranked ageing genes were predominantly expressed by naïve T cells, with limited expression from more common cell types. Highly ranked ageing genes were also more likely to have decreased expression with age. Taken together, it is plausible that much of the observed gene expression changes in whole blood is reflecting the decline in abundance of naïve T cells known to occur with age, rather than changes in transcription rates in common cell types. Correct attribution of the gene expression changes that occur with age is essential for understanding the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aristolochic acids (AAs) with strong bio-toxicity are the natural compounds that consist in Aristolochiaceae plants. There are the governing health issues regarding toxicities of AAs although Aristolochiaceae plants have been used as herbal medicines. For example, AAs are known as significant risk factors for nephropathy, urological cancer, liver cancer and so on. However, the understandings about the molecular mechanisms of toxicity of each AA derivative have been still poor and insufficiently studied. In this study, we investigated the effects of four AA derivatives (AA-A, AA-B, AA-C and AA-D) on the viability and the all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)-induced superoxide anion (O2-)-generating ability of human leukemia U937 cells. AA-A and AA-C remarkably reduced cell viability when co-treated with ATRA while AA-B and AA-D had little effect on viability of U937 cells. On the other hand, only AA-C among the four AAs dramatically up-regulated the ATRA-induced O2--generating ability. Quantitative RT- PCR and immunoblotting analyses showed that AA-C significantly enhances the ATRA-induced O2--gen- erating ability via up-regulating gene expression levels of gp91-phox, which is an essential factor for the O2--generating ability of phagocytes. These findings revealed that AA-C has not only the ATRA-enhanced cytotoxic effect but also the remarkable enhancing effect on the ATRA-induced O2--generating ability via up-regulating transcription of gp91-phox gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibians are experiencing declines globally, with emerging infectious diseases as one of the main causes. Haematological parameters present a useful method for determining the health status of animals and the effects of particular diseases, but the interpretation of differential cell counts relies on knowing the normal ranges for the species and factors that can affect these counts. However, there is very little data on either normal haematological parameters or guides for blood cell types for free-ranging frog species across the world. This study aims to 1) create a visual guide for three different Australian frog species: Litoria paraewingi, Limnodynastes dumerilii, and Crinia signifera, 2) determine the proportions of erythrocytes to leukocytes and 3) differential leukocytes within blood smears from these three species and 4) assess the association between parasites and differential counts. We collected blood samples from free-ranging frogs and analysed blood smears. We also looked for ectoparasites and tested for the fungal disease chytridiomycosis. Overall, we found that the differentials of erythrocytes to leukocytes were not affected by species, but the proportions of different leukocytes did vary across species. For example, while lymphocytes were the most common type of leukocyte across the three species, eosinophils were relatively common in Limnodynastes dumerilii but rarely present in the other two species. We noted chytridiomycosis infection as well as ectoparasites present in some individuals but found no effect of parasites on blood parameters. Our results add baseline haematological parameters for three Australian frog species and provide an example of how different frog species can vary in their differential blood cell counts. More information is needed on frog haematological data before these parameters can be used to determine the health status of wild or captive frogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circulating triglyceride (TG) and leukocytes, the main components of the vascular system, may impact each other and co-fuel atherosclerosis. While the causal relationship between plasma TG levels and leukocyte counts remains unclear. Bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to investigate the potential causal relationship between TG levels and the counts of leukocytes and their subtypes. A cross-lagged panel model (CLPM) using longitudinal healthy screening data (13,389 adults with a follow-up of 4 years) was fitted to examine the temporal relationship between them. Genetically predicted plasma TG levels were positively associated with total leukocyte counts (TLC) [β(se) = 0.195(0.01)], lymphocyte counts (LC) [β(se) = 0.196(0.019)], and neutrophil counts (NC) [β(se) = 0.086(0.01)], which remained significant after adjusting for several confounders. Inversely, the genetically predicted TLC [β(se) = 0.033(0.008)], LC [β(se) = 0.053(0.008)], and NC [β(se) = 0.034(0.008)] were positively associated with plasma TG levels. However, when all three of them were put into the MR model adjusted for each other, only LC was significantly associated with TG levels. There was no association between genetically predicted TG levels and monocyte counts (MC), basophil counts, and eosinophil counts. The results of CLPM showed that the temporal effect of elevated TLC, MC, LC, and NC on plasma TG levels was stronger than the inverse effect. Our findings suggest causal associations of plasma TG levels with TLC, LC, and NC. In turn, LC was positively associated with plasma TG levels. Additionally, elevated circulating LC may precede high plasma TG levels.

Background and purpose: Being Overweight is a global health problem and is related to important underlying diseases such as cardiovascular disease, malignancy, diabetes, fatty liver, etc. Over the past three decades, obesity has increased globally, especially in low-and middle-income countries. Numerous studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of developing chronic and threatening diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, blood pressure, and reduces life expectancy. On the other hand, chronic inflammation around fat cells plays an important role in obesity-related diseases. Also, changes in blood parameters are associated with increased body mass and chronic inflammation in obesity, and peripheral blood cells, such as the number of platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, are related to the progression of various types of diseases and inflammatory conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find the relationship between blood count biomarkers and anthropometric indicators in the adult group according to the Tabari cohort data. Materials and methods In the present study, cross-sectional data from a population-based cohort study called "Tabari Cohort Study" collected from 2014 to 2016 were used. This study is part of a nationwide study called "Epidemiological Prospective Study Group in Iran (Persian Cohort)". In the first phase of the Tabari cohort study, 10,255 participants aged between 35-70 years from urban and rural areas of Sari city were registered. Exclusion criteria in this study were inflammatory diseases, autoimmunity, malignancy, cardiovascular diseases, transplantation, and receiving any type of immunosuppressive drug, and finally 9939 people including 4043 men and 5896 women were included in the study. Age, height, weight, anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist circumference), CBC parameters including leukocytes, platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes), and platelet distribution width (PDW) were recorded from the participants. By using the histogram drawing method to check whether the variables follow the normal distribution to decide between parametric or non-parametric analysis, T-test and ANOVA statistical tests, and SPSS 21 software, the results were extracted. The significance level in this study was considered to be 0.05 or less. Results: Waist-to-hip ratio was associated with higher WBC (P

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy is important for the treatment of cancer but it is not without side effects on the human body like lethal effects on blood cells. This study aimed to estimate the effect of radiotherapy on blood parameters in cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred and two patients from Zhianawa Hospital in Sulaymaniyah Province, Iraq, were included in this study from July 2022 to October 2022. The blood samples were collected for blood analysis and the information of participants was taken through a detailed questionnaire. RESULTS: Out of the 102 patients, 61 (59.8%) females and 41 (40.2%) males, the median age was 50.1 years ± 17.02 years. Forty-nine (48%) of studied patients were in Stage 4 and the most common cancer was breast cancer accounting for 43 (42.2%). We found a statistically significant (P < 0.05) reduction in total white blood cell (WBC) count, red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin, and platelet counts, but regarding neutrophils, the reduction was statistically not significant (P = 0.343). Doses of radiotherapy and more advanced stages of cancer affect the degree of the reduction of blood counts and it can be seen in different ages. The cell drop was significantly lower in younger patients, aged

Immune cell migration is required for the development of an effective and robust immune response. This elegant process is regulated by both cellular and environmental factors, with variables such as immune cell state, anatomical location, and disease state that govern differences in migration patterns. In all cases, a major factor is the expression of cell surface receptors and their cognate ligands. Rapid adaptation to environmental conditions partly depends on intrinsic cellular immune factors that affect a cell's ability to adjust to new environment. In this review, we discuss both myeloid and lymphoid cells and outline key determinants that govern immune cell migration, including molecules required for immune cell adhesion, modes of migration, chemotaxis, and specific chemokine signaling. Furthermore, we summarize tumor-specific elements that contribute to immune cell trafficking to cancer, while also exploring microenvironment factors that can alter these cellular dynamics within the tumor in both a pro and antitumor fashion. Specifically, we highlight the importance of the secretome in these later aspects. This review considers a myriad of factors that impact immune cell trajectory in cancer. We aim to highlight the immunotherapeutic targets that can be harnessed to achieve controlled immune trafficking to and within tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate plaque vulnerability by carotid contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and to analyze the correlation between plaque vulnerability and peripheral blood leukocyte classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 135 patients with carotid plaque were examined by contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Plaque vulnerability was assessed by semiquantitative visual classification. Baseline clinical data and peripheral leukocyte classification were collected. Ordered logistic regression was used to analyze the correlation between plaque neovascularization grade and peripheral leukocyte classification count. RESULTS: There were significant differences in leukocyte, monocyte, neutrophil, mean platelet volume, lymphocyte, and neutrophil counts between different neovascular plaque grades and peripheral blood (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that leukocyte, monocyte, and neutrophil counts were significantly positively correlated. CONCLUSION: The increase in plaque neovascularization is associated with an increase in circulating leukocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils. Therefore, CEUS combined with peripheral blood leukocytes may serve as an early warning of plaque vulnerability and provide a theoretical basis for clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS) is a well-known sperm selection technique, which is able to remove apoptotic spermatozoa from semen samples using the classic annexinV based method. Leukocytes and erythrocytes in semen samples or in testicular tissue processed for in vitro fertilization (IVF) could exert detrimental effects on sperm. In the current study, we rethought the aforementioned technique and used magnetic microbeads conjugated with anti-CD45/CD235a antibodies to eliminate contaminating leukocytes and erythrocytes from leukocytospermic semen samples and testicular tissue samples gained via testicular sperm extraction (TESE). With this technique, a 15.7- and a 30.8-fold reduction could be achieved in the ratio of leukocytes in semen and in the number of erythrocytes in TESE samples, respectively. Our results show that MACS is a method worth to reconsider, with more potential alternative applications. Investigations to find molecules labeling high-quality sperm population and the development of positive selection procedures based on these might be a direction of future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reelin, a large extracellular glycoprotein, plays critical roles in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies have revealed non-neuronal functions of plasma Reelin in inflammation by promoting endothelial–leukocyte adhesion through its canonical pathway in endothelial cells (via ApoER2 acting on NF-κB), as well as in vascular tone regulation and thrombosis. In this study, we have investigated the safety and efficacy of selectively depleting plasma Reelin as a potential therapeutic strategy for chronic inflammatory diseases. We found that Reelin expression remains stable throughout adulthood and that peripheral anti-Reelin antibody treatment with CR-50 efficiently depletes plasma Reelin without affecting its levels or functionality within the CNS. Notably, this approach preserves essential neuronal functions and synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, in mice induced with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), selective modulation of endothelial responses by anti-Reelin antibodies reduces pathological leukocyte infiltration without completely abolishing diapedesis. Finally, long-term Reelin depletion under metabolic stress induced by a Western diet did not negatively impact the heart, kidney, or liver, suggesting a favorable safety profile. These findings underscore the promising role of peripheral anti-Reelin therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases and conditions where endothelial function is compromised, offering a novel approach that may avoid the immunosuppressive side effects associated with conventional anti-inflammatory therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Being Overweight is a global health problem and is related to important underlying diseases such as cardiovascular disease, malignancy, diabetes, fatty liver, etc. Over the past three decades, obesity has increased globally, especially in low-and middle-income countries. Numerous studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of developing chronic and threatening diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, blood pressure, and reduces life expectancy. On the other hand, chronic inflammation around fat cells plays an important role in obesity-related diseases. Also, changes in blood parameters are associated with increased body mass and chronic inflammation in obesity, and peripheral blood cells, such as the number of platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, are related to the progression of various types of diseases and inflammatory conditions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find the relationship between blood count biomarkers and anthropometric indicators in the adult group according to the Tabari cohort data. Materials and methods In the present study, cross-sectional data from a population-based cohort study called "Tabari Cohort Study" collected from 2014 to 2016 were used. This study is part of a nationwide study called "Epidemiological Prospective Study Group in Iran (Persian Cohort)". In the first phase of the Tabari cohort study, 10,255 participants aged between 35-70 years from urban and rural areas of Sari city were registered. Exclusion criteria in this study were inflammatory diseases, autoimmunity, malignancy, cardiovascular diseases, transplantation, and receiving any type of immunosuppressive drug, and finally 9939 people including 4043 men and 5896 women were included in the study. Age, height, weight, anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist circumference), CBC parameters including leukocytes, platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes), and platelet distribution width (PDW) were recorded from the participants. By using the histogram drawing method to check whether the variables follow the normal distribution to decide between parametric or non-parametric analysis, T-test and ANOVA statistical tests, and SPSS 21 software, the results were extracted. The significance level in this study was considered to be 0.05 or less. Results: Waist-to-hip ratio was associated with higher WBC (P<0.001), platelet (P<0.001), and lymphocyte percentage (P<0.001). Higher waist-to-hip ratio was associated with higher WBC (P<0.001), platelet (P<0.001), lymphocyte percentage (P<0.001), and monocyte percentage (P<0.001). Higher BMI values were associated with higher WBC (P<0.001), platelet (P<0.001), lymphocyte (P<0.001) and monocyte (P<0.001) percentages. WBC, platelet, lymphocyte, and monocyte percentage were significantly higher in people who had a higher ratio of waist circumference to height (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that the relationship between anthropometric indicators and blood findings in favor of inflammatory conditions and obesity can affect indicators related to whole blood count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient that plays a crucial role in fish development and physiology. This study aimed to evaluate the effects on growth and health in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) supplemented with graded levels of zinc amino acid complex (Zn-AA) and subjected to transport stress. Nile tilapia (21.78 ± 0.17 g; (n = 12 fish per tank; stocking density of 1.045 kg− 3) were fed with 0, 25, 50, 75, or 100 mg Zn-AA kg− 1 (equivalent to 77.49, 102.69, 127.89, 153.09, or 178.29 mg Zn kg− 1) in extruded diets (280 g kg− 1 digestible protein; isoproteic and isocaloric) for 60 days. At the end of the experimental period, after growth performance measurements, the fish were transported by car for 3 h, and blood collection was performed. The linear regression showed that the best growth performance (final weight, final biomass, weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed intake) was found in fish fed with 100 mg Zn-AA kg diet− 1 (p < 0.05). The increased dietary Zn-AA increased linearly plasma triglyceride levels, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and leukocyte values and reduced plasma total protein, cholesterol (total and LDL), and aspartate aminotransferase levels (p < 0.05). According to quadratic regression, the highest plasma glucose and alanine aminotransferase values were found in the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, under the conditions of this study, 100 mg Zn-AA kg diet− 1 is recommended for Nile tilapia as it can improve their growth, metabolism, physiology, and immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukocytes and platelets must adhere to the wall of blood vessels to carry out their protective functions in inflammation and haemostasis. Recruitment is critically dependent on rheological variables (wall shear rate and stress, red cell aggregation and haematocrit) which affect delivery to the vessel wall as well as velocities and forces experienced there. Leukocyte recruitment is efficient only up to wall shear rates of about 300 s−1 and usually restricted to low-shear post-capillary venules in inflammation. Being smaller, platelets experience lower velocities and shear forces adjacent to the wall and can adhere at much higher shear rates for haemostasis in arteries. In addition, we found quite different effects of variations in haematocrit or red cell aggregation on attachment of neutrophils or platelets, which also assist their separate recruitment in venules or arteries. However, it has become increasingly evident that inflammatory and thrombotic responses may occur together, with platelets promoting the adhesion and activation of neutrophils and monocytes. Indeed, it is 30 years since we demonstrated that platelets could cause neutrophils to aggregate in suspension and, when attached to a surface, could support selectin-mediated rolling of all leukocytes. Thrombin-activated platelets could further induce neutrophil activation and immobilisation. In some conditions, platelets could bind to intact endothelial monolayers and capture neutrophils or monocytes. Subsequently, we found that extracellular vesicles released by activated platelets (PEV) fulfilled similar functions when deposited on surfaces or bound to endothelial cells. In murine models, platelets or PEV could act as bridges for monocytes in inflamed vessels. Thus, leukocytes and platelets are rheologically adapted for their separate functions, while novel thrombo-inflammatory pathways using platelets or PEV may underlie pathogenic leukocyte recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in air purifiers has been widely employed to reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The existence of the heavy metals silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) in HEPA filters will adversely affect both water quality and the survival of aquatic organisms. Further analysis is required to assess the effects of using HEPA filters on environmental pollution and identify any associated adverse effects. This study investigated the impact of HEPA filter exposure on the histopathology of the gill and stomach, as well as the leukocyte profile in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). In brief, common carp samples measuring 8-9cm in length were subjected to various concentrations of HEPA filters over a duration of 96 hours. The concentrations tested included a control group, as well as concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40%. The study revealed that the use of a HEPA filter on common carp had a substantial impact on the leukocyte profile of Cyprinus carpio. Specifically, it caused a considerable decrease in the number of leukocytes at a concentration of 40%, resulting in a reduction of around 11.3 cells/mm3. Particularly, there was a considerable increase in both total leukocyte count and phagocytosis activity at a concentration of 10% of the HEPA filter. In addition, the HEPA filter induced oedema, hyperplasia, congestion, hypertrophy, fusion, hemorrhagic, and lysis in the tissue structure of the gills. These effects were found at concentrations of 20, 30, and 40%, resulting in a total damage of approximately 12, 28.6, and 66.3%, respectively. The HEPA filter causes hemorrhagic, congestion, and lysis in the stomach organ, resulting in total damage of approximately 7, 13.3, and 32%, respectively. The HEPA filter induces significant alterations in the gill and stomach tissue, with concentrations ranging from 50-60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematology is a common diagnostic assay for evaluation of health in veterinary species. Several manual methods exist to evaluate the leukocyte component of reptile complete blood counts; however, no single method has been proven reliable for all reptiles. To investigate the analytical variability and agreement of commonly used leukocyte quantification methods, blood was collected from 10 clinically healthy bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and analyzed in triplicate using Natt-Herricks (NH) solution, eosinophilic leukopet (LO), and estimated white blood cell counts on peripheral blood smears made from fresh whole blood or blood anticoagulated with lithium heparin (LH). To investigate interobserver variability, blood film white blood cell estimates were generated by both a novice veterinary student and a boarded clinical pathologist and analyzed for agreement. Analytical variability was highest using the LH blood film estimate by a boarded clinical pathologist (21.0%), followed by the student's NH method (20.8%), fresh whole blood film estimate from the clinical pathologist (16.6%), eosinophilic LO (student; 8.7%), and blood film estimates using fresh whole blood (6.5%) and LH blood (4.5%), read by the student. Bland Altman plots revealed that agreement occurred between LO and NH methods and between the two blood film estimate methods; Passing-Bablok regression analysis revealed constant and proportional error between LO and both estimate methods and between NH and both estimate methods. Agreement occurred between the veterinary student and clinical pathologist for both blood smear leukocyte estimates. These results highlight the importance of considering which leukocyte quantification method is used when clinically assessing reptile patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although widely used, the ADVIA 120 hematology analyzer has not been previously validated for determining the differential leukocyte count in goats. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the differential leukocyte counts provided by the ADVIA 120 (A‐diff) and the manual method (M‐Diff) in goats. Methods: EDTA blood samples that were analyzed within 4 h of collection were used in the study. The following exclusion criteria were applied: inappropriately filled tubes or tubes containing clots, erroneous ADVIA peroxidase cytograms, and blood smears of poor quality. The A‐Diff was compared with the M‐Diff performed by two independent observers on 200 leukocytes. Results: Forty samples were included after previously excluding eight samples. The correlation between the A‐Diff and M‐Diff was very strong for eosinophils (r =.870, p <.001) and strong for lymphocytes (r =.796, p <.001) and neutrophils (r =.730, p <.001), while no significant correlation was observed for monocytes (r =.026, p =.872). The Passing–Bablok regression analyses revealed statistically significant constant errors for neutrophils (5.83%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41%, 12.18%) and eosinophils (1.89%; 95% CI: 1.17%, 2.71%). Bland–Altman analyses showed a statistically significant negative bias for lymphocytes (−5.0%) and a statistically significant positive bias for eosinophils (2.2%). The very low basophil percentages precluded a meaningful method comparison. Conclusions: The ADVIA 120 overall demonstrated good performance for the differential WBC count in goats under the conditions of this study. Therefore, it can be considered suitable for routine hematologic screening in goats. Nonetheless, it should be emphasized that any abnormal result should be confirmed with a blood smear evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leukergy is the phenomenon of aggregation of leukocytes on a peripheral blood film, and in humans, it is used as an indicator of systemic inflammation and infection. Objectives: To assess the association of leukergy on blood film examination with biochemical and clinical evidence of systemic inflammation, infection, neoplasia, or specific organ system disease. Methods: A case–control study using retrospective analysis (2017–2022) identified all canine and feline patients that had been presented to an academic referral center with a finding of leukergy on peripheral blood film and an equal number of species‐matched controls. Results: A total of 127 cases (canine n = 44, feline n = 83) were identified, as well as 127 controls. Feline samples were 7.6× more likely to exhibit leukergy (0.019%) than canine (0.0025%). A positive association was noted between leukergy and higher globulin concentrations in dogs (marginal difference 0.5 mg/dL, P =.016) and cats (marginal difference 0.67 mg/dL, P = <.001). Cats with leukergy had higher WBC counts and were less likely to be diagnosed with cardiac or urinary tract disease than controls. Dogs with leukergy had lower WBC counts and were more likely to be febrile but were less likely to have urinary tract disease than controls. No association was found with neutrophil toxic change or band forms, systemic antimicrobial therapy, or signalment. Conclusions: We conclude that there is a positive association between increased globulin concentrations and leukergy and inconsistent associations between leukergy and other markers of inflammation or infection. Leukergy is rare overall but markedly more common in cats than dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed qualitative and quantitative leukocyte evaluation as potential broiler chicken welfare indicators, contributing to the limited literature on white blood cell (WBC) morphology as a diagnostic tool for welfare. Broiler chicken welfare within four poultry houses (PH) 1 to 4, each on a different farm, was assessed using on-field indicators of affective states and health, and WBC morphology was examined. Affective states were evaluated using the Qualitative Behavior Assessment (QBA), with 25 behavioral expressions scored on a visual analogue scale (VAS) and grouped into two categories. Health indicators included assessments of lameness, footpad dermatitis, dermatitis on the breast and abdominal areas, hock burn, and feather cleaning. Blood samples were collected, differential leukocyte counts were performed, and a cell score was created for the recognition, classification, and interpretation of morphologic diversity of heterophils and lymphocytes. The heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (H/L) was also determined. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear models for binomial responses were used to analyze the results. PH4 differed from the other farms, showing a higher frequency of birds within QBA group 1 (‘Attentive’to ‘Desperate’), while birds in PH1, PH2, and PH3 were more frequent in QBA group 2 (‘Relaxed’ to ‘Positively occupied’). Elevated proportions of heterophils in birds from PH4 (0.61, CI95%: 0.58; 0.64) and PH3 (0.60, CI95%: 0.57; 0.63) suggested higher stress levels and inflammatory responses. Birds in PH2 and PH4 exhibited higher frequencies of health issues such as dermatitis and lameness, and higher proportions of abnormalities in WBC number and morphology. PH3 and PH4 exhibited higher H/L ratios of 3.03 and 2.58, respectively, consistent with the on-field health and behavioral indicators. Blood samples from birds in PH2 and PH4 showed a proportion of 90% toxic change in heterophils, while in PH1 and PH3 it was 70%, indicating high levels of abnormal WBC morphology across all PHs. The findings emphasize the multifactorial nature of welfare impairments, including environmental conditions, health, and affective states. This highlights the need for indicators that reflect multiple welfare impacts, such as WBC counts and morphological alterations, which can serve as powerful tools in the complex task of assessing animal welfare.

Bacterial infections are a major contributor to losses in aquaculture production. Diagnosis of these bacterial diseases is based on sacrificing fish and isolating the infectious agent from the internal organs. Infections lead to an inflammatory response in the host that is characterized by changes in leukocyte profile and activity. We hypothesized that the profile of circulating peripheral blood leukocytes and markers of their activity, such as reactive oxygen species production, would change following an event of bacterial infection in fish. We therefore developed a flow cytometry-based methodology for analyzing blood leukocytes in barramundi (Lates calcarifer), then used it to compare healthy fish to those infected with a common pathogenic bacterium, Vibrio harveyi. The initial step of the analysis relied on the effective separation of erythrocytes and leukocytes, and two methods were tested: one based on hypotonic lysis of red blood cells, and the other involving stain-based differentiation using carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE). Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed significant differences in leukocyte parameters of infected and control fish using the stain-based approach vs. hypotonic lysis. Changes in blood leukocytes included an increase in the proportion of monocytes and decrease in that of lymphocytes in infected fish. Furthermore, cell size and granularity of the different leukocyte populations changed over time in infected fish as compared to controls. Monitoring peripheral blood leukocytes provides a non-lethal analysis of inflammation that allows repeated sampling of individual fish over time. This is beneficial given the high variability between individual fish. The use of CFSE-staining for leukocyte isolation proved to be advantageous over a method based on lysis of erythrocytes.

Amphibians are experiencing declines globally, with emerging infectious diseases as one of the main causes. Haematological parameters present a useful method for determining the health status of animals and the effects of particular diseases, but the interpretation of differential cell counts relies on knowing the normal ranges for the species and factors that can affect these counts. However, there is very little data on either normal haematological parameters or guides for blood cell types for free-ranging frog species across the world. This study aims to 1) create a visual guide for three different Australian frog species: Litoria paraewingi, Limnodynastes dumerilii, and Crinia signifera, 2) determine the proportions of erythrocytes to leukocytes and 3) differential leukocytes within blood smears from these three species and 4) assess the association between parasites and differential counts. We collected blood samples from free-ranging frogs and analysed blood smears. We also looked for ectoparasites and tested for the fungal disease chytridiomycosis. Overall, we found that the differentials of erythrocytes to leukocytes were not affected by species, but the proportions of different leukocytes did vary across species. For example, while lymphocytes were the most common type of leukocyte across the three species, eosinophils were relatively common in Limnodynastes dumerilii but rarely present in the other two species. We noted chytridiomycosis infection as well as ectoparasites present in some individuals but found no effect of parasites on blood parameters. Our results add baseline haematological parameters for three Australian frog species and provide an example of how different frog species can vary in their differential blood cell counts. More information is needed on frog haematological data before these parameters can be used to determine the health status of wild or captive frogs.

Abstract Background Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, involving various cells and cellular elements precisely eosinophils, mast cells, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, epithelial cells, and macrophages. Worldwide, about 300 million people are affected by asthma, and is expected that 100 million people may get affected, in 2025. Quisqualis indica is commonly planted as an ornamental plant in India; and has medicinal uses. Therefore, the petroleum ether (60–80 °C) LPE and methanolic extract LME of the Quisqualis indica leaves were analyzed for anti-asthmatic activity by mast cell degranulation and Milk induced eosinophilia and leukocytosis in mice. Results It was found that Quisqualis indica leaf extracts exhibited protection against the degranulation of mast cells and a reduction in the difference count of leucocytes and eosinophils. LPE and LME (400 mg/kg) have shown 33% and 63% of mast cell protection. LME has shown the most significant mast cell stabilizing action comparable with the standard drug. The extracts decreased the difference count of leucocytes and eosinophils. LME (400 mg/kg) has shown a difference in eosinophil count and a decrease in leukocyte count most comparable with the standard Dexamethasone. Methanolic extract analyzed for phytochemicals by High Resolution Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy /Mass Spectroscopy method showed the presence of various Phyto-compounds. Conclusion From the analysis of methanolic leaf extract of Quisualis indica revealed the presence of phytocompounds such as Apigenin7-glucoside, Gallic acid, Quercetin, Quercitrin, Kaempferol, etc. The significant decrease in eosinophil and leukocyte count in animals might be due to the higher content of Tannin and flavonoids. A reduction in leukocyte and eosinophil is regulated by type 1 hypersensitivity and adaptogenic factors hence Quisqualis indica is effectively helpful in allergy conditions like asthma. Graphical abstract

Abstract Background This study was performed to test the hypothesis that systemic leukocyte gene expression has prognostic value differentiating low from high seizure frequency refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Methods A consecutive series of patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy was studied. Based on a median baseline seizure frequency of 2.0 seizures per month, low versus high seizure frequency was defined as ≤ 2 seizures/month and > 2 seizures/month, respectively. Systemic leukocyte gene expression was analyzed for prognostic value for TLE seizure frequency. All differentially expressed genes were analyzed, with Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis (IPA®) and Reactome, to identify leukocyte gene expression and biological pathways with prognostic value for seizure frequency. Results There were ten males and six females with a mean age of 39.4 years (range: 16 to 62 years, standard error of mean: 3.6 years). There were five patients in the high and eleven patients in the low seizure frequency cohorts, respectively. Based on a threshold of twofold change (p 2.0, FDR

Abstract Background White blood cell (WBC) count increases during pregnancy, necessitating reliable reference intervals for assessing infections and pregnancy-related complications. This study aimed to establish comprehensive reference intervals for WBC counts during pregnancy. Methods The analysis included 17,737 pregnant women, with weekly WBC count measurements from pre-pregnancy to postpartum. A threshold linear regression model determined reference intervals, while Harris and Boyd’s test partitioned the intervals. Results WBC count exhibited a significant increase during pregnancy, characterized by a rapid rise before 7 weeks of gestation, followed by a plateau. Neutrophils primarily drove this increase, showing a similar pattern. The threshold regression model and Harris and Boyd’s test supported partitioned reference intervals for WBC counts: 4.0–10.0 × 10^9/L for = 6 weeks of gestation. These reference intervals identified pregnant women with high WBC counts, who had a higher incidence of pregnancy-related complications including placenta previa, oligohydramnios, secondary uterine inertia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Conclusion This study establishes comprehensive reference intervals for WBC counts during pregnancy. Monitoring WBC counts is clinically relevant, as elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of infection and pregnancy-related complications.

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanism and identify potential drugs for subthreshold depression (SD), and elucidate the detalied mechanism of Danzhi Xiaoyao powder (DZXY) in SD. Methods: Using RNA-sequencing, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in leukocytes of SD compared to healthy controls, deciphered their functions and pathways, and identified the hub genes of SD. We also assessed changes in leukocyte transcription factor activity in patients with SD using the TELiS platform. The Connectivity Map database was retrieved to screen candidate drugs for SD. Based on network pharmacology, we elucidated the “multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway” mechanism of DZXY in the treatment of SD. Results: We identified 1080 DEGs (padj

This article, titled "Editorial: Neuro-immune players of peripheral pain signalling," explores the interactions between the immune and nervous systems in the context of pain. It discusses the role of nociceptors, specialized sensory neurons that respond to harmful stimuli, and how their activation by inflammatory molecules can lead to chronic pain. The article includes two review articles and three original research articles that cover topics such as leukocyte infiltration in neuropathic pain, the effects of exercise on neuroimmune responses, and the mechanisms of pain sensitization. Overall, this research topic provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between the immune and nervous systems in pain signaling. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Whether white blood cell (WBC) counts are predictors for the effectiveness of thiopurine treatment in ulcerative colitis (UC) has been inconclusive in previous studies with small sample sizes. We investigated the association between WBC counts and future relapses in UC patients in a large-scale multi-center study. Methods: This retrospective cohort study enrolled a total of 723 UC patients in remission from 33 hospitals and followed up for 3 years. Relapse was defined as a need for treatment intensification. The risk of relapse was compared among patients with the baseline WBC counts

Blood cell counts are valuable diagnostic tools for assessing the health status of chelonians, however, reference standards for healthy blood parameters in various turtle species are lacking. In this study, forty wild female Malayemys subtrijuga were captured from ponds in Kasetsart University, and transported to laboratory for recuperating in captivity. All turtles were infected with a single leech species, Placobdelloides siamensis, with a mean of 513.7 ± 164.9 individuals per turtle, and exhibited penetrating and lesion wounds from leech infestations on both their skin and shell. Subsequently, they were cleaned and treated to eliminate ecto- and endoparasites before the recuperation period began. The turtles did not exhibit significantly differences in weight, carapace length (CL), red blood cell count (RCC), and white blood cell count (WCC) with a mean of 654.2 ± 199.9 g, 15.0 ± 2.5 cm, 327,080 ± 70,156 cells/mm3, and 73,340 ± 15,859 cells/mm3, respectively, during the initial records (week 0). However, after being maintained for 17 weeks, their health significantly improved in term of their blood parameters (RCC and WCC) and weight, except CL which remained unchanged, with a mean of 491,470 ± 16,169 cells/mm3, 18,790 ± 1496 cells/mm3, and 738.9 ± 191.5 g, respectively. Therefore, the health status obtained in this study can be used as a reference for blood parameters, weight, and recuperation period for the treatment of ill wild M. subtrijuga in captivity or as part of conservation management programs for turtles.

Background and Objectives: The predictive value of changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, and leukocyte levels, which are commonly used in the diagnosis of infection in sepsis and septic shock, remains a topic of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of changes in CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocyte counts on the prognosis of 230 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with the diagnosis of sepsis and pneumonia-related septic shock between 1 April 2022 and 31 December 2023, and to investigate whether any of these markers have a superior predictive value over the others in forecasting prognosis. Materials and Methods: This single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional observational study included patients who developed sepsis and septic shock due to community-acquired pneumonia and were admitted to the ICU. Demographic data, 1-month and 90-day mortality rates, length of stay in the ICU, discharge to the ward or an outside facility, need for dialysis after sepsis, need for invasive or noninvasive mechanical ventilation during the ICU stay and the duration of this support, whether patients admitted with sepsis or septic shock required inotropic agent support during their stay in the ICU and whether they received monotherapy or combination therapy with antibiotics during their admission to the ICU, the Comorbidity Index score (CCIS), CURB-65 score (confusion, uremia, respiratory rate, BP, age ≥ 65), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE-II) score were analyzed. Additionally, CRP, procalcitonin, and leukocyte levels were recorded, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate their effects on 1- and 3-month mortality outcomes. In all statistical analyses, a p-value of Results: According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, low BMI, male gender, and high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores were found to be significantly associated with both 1-month and 3-month mortality (p < 0.05). Although there was no significant relationship between the first-day levels of leukocytes, CRP, and PCT and mortality, their levels on the third day were observed to be at their highest in both the 1-month and 3-month mortality cases (p < 0.05). Additionally, a concurrent increase in any two or all three of CRP, PCT, and leukocyte values was found to be higher in patients with 3-month mortality compared with those who survived (p = 0.004). Conclusions: In patients with pneumoseptic or pneumonia-related septic shock, the persistent elevation and concurrent increase in PCT, CRP, and leukocyte values, along with male gender, advanced age, low BMI, and high CCIS, CURB-65, and APACHE-II scores, were found to be significantly associated with 3-month mortality.

The male reproductive system develops from a minimally functioning gonad and nonfunctioning accessory sex glands in the neonate; sex steroids, presumed to be primary influencers of these changes, have been characterized in multiple species. This study focused on the expression of the androgen receptor as the principal mediator of androgen-induced signaling; the 5α reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to the more active dihydrotestosterone; and colony stimulating factor 1, a mediator of macrophage influence on organ development in the pig. The time points chosen to evaluate normal developmental changes during the juvenile and prepubertal intervals included the inflection time points of 6.5 weeks of age at the nadir of circulating estradiol and testosterone concentrations in juveniles, and 11 weeks of age, when these concentrations begin to increase. The role of sex steroid signaling in the regulation of gene expression was evaluated by the blockade of androgen and estrogen receptors and reduction in endogenous estrogens. Expression of colony stimulating factor 1 in the testes gradually decreased during development; developmental profiles in the prostate and seminal vesicles were clearly different. Interference with sex steroid signaling had no effect on the expression of these three genes in testicular tissue and minimal and transient effects in prostate and seminal vesicles.