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Fatal aviation accidents are a critical concern for armed forces, necessitating precise toxicological analysis of postmortem blood samples. This paper introduces a novel spectrophotometric method for quantifying cyanide in blood samples with an aim to aid in aircraft accident reconstruction in the future. Blood samples were collected from healthy non-smokers aged 20–45 years, excluding individuals with hepatic impairment, or those using drugs affecting blood cyanide levels. The spectrophotometric method involved cyanide adsorption in a sodium hydroxide solution using microdiffusion discs and chemical reactions resulting in a pinkish-purple end product. The optimal absorption wavelength (λ max) was determined, and the lower limits of detection and quantitation were established. The method underwent validation for precision, sensitivity, specificity, linearity, and accuracy. The procedure yielded a pinkish-purple compound with an optimal absorption wavelength (λ max) of 531 nm. The established limits of detection (LoD) and quantitation (LoQ) were 0.0625 μg/ml and 0.125 μg/ml, respectively. The method demonstrated strong linearity up to cyanide concentrations of 4 μg/ml. It exhibited a sensitivity of 99.7% and accuracy of 85.92%. The intraday and inter-day precision were determined as 9.04% and 4.27%, respectively. The method was highly specific, showing no interference with blanks at the peak wavelength with a working range of 0.125–4 μg/ml. The study describes developing and validating a sensitive method for quantitatively estimating cyanide in blood samples. Incorporating this method into the existing postmortem toxicological sample collection and investigation protocol will enhance the analysis capabilities and improve aircraft accident investigation outcomes within the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathophysiological mechanisms of postoperative delirium (POD) are still unclear, and there is no reliable biomarker to distinguish between those with and without POD. Our aim was to discover DNAm markers associated with POD in blood collected from patients before and after gastrointestinal surgery. We collected blood samples from 16 patients including 7 POD patients at three timepoints; before surgery (pre), the first and third postoperative days (day1 and day3). We measured differences in DNA methylation between POD and control groups between pre and day1 as well as between pre and day3 using the Illumina EPIC array method. Besides, enrichment analysis with Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes terms were also performed after excluding influence of common factors related to surgery and anesthesia. The results showed that pre and day1 comparisons showed that immune and inflammatory signals such as 'T-cell activation' were significantly different, consistent with our previous studies with non-Hispanic White subjects. In contrast, we found that these signals were not significant any more when pre was compared with day3. These results provide strong evidence for the involvement of inflammatory and immune-related epigenetic signals in the pathogenesis of delirium, including POD, regardless of ethnic background. These findings also suggest that DNAm, which is involved in inflammation and immunity, is dynamically altered in patients with POD. In summary, the present results indicate that these signals may serve as a new diagnostic tool for POD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ascaris suum is the most widespread and common nematode in pigs. • Ascaris suum eggs were detected in 18% of the alternative farms included in the study. • At least 20% of pigs over 22 weeks of age were seropositive for A. suum on 80% of farms. • The coprological test has very good specificity but very low sensitivity. • The serological diagnostic test seems better suited to defining a farm's status. Coprological and serological diagnostic tests were compared to define the status of a pig farm with regard to Ascaris suum. On each of the 100 farms in France visited for the study, 10 blood samples were taken from pigs at the end of fattening (at least 22 weeks old) and 20 to 30 faecal samples were taken, depending on the category of animals present on the farm (10 sows, 10 piglets aged 10 to 12 weeks and 10 pigs at the end of fattening, aged at least 22 weeks). A SERASCA® ELISA test (Laboratory of Parasitology, Ghent University) was performed on each blood sample (cut-off 0.5) and a coprological analysis on each faecal sample. A Bayesian approach was used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the coprological and serological tests. A farm was considered positive if at least one A. suum egg was observed in the faecal samples. With regard to the serological test, various hypotheses were tested in order to define the number of seropositive animals required to consider a farm positive for A. suum. The coprological test has very good specificity in the search for A. suum , whether 20 or 30 samples are taken per farm. However, even with an increase in the number of samples, the sensitivity of this diagnostic approach is very low (less than 30%). On the other hand, the serological diagnostic method, which consists of taking blood samples from 10 animals at the end of fattening, has good sensitivity and seems better suited to defining the status of a farm with regard to A. suum , provided that a farm is considered seropositive only if two out of 10 samples are positive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphotriesterases (PTE) are a new and promising approach for the treatment of organophosphate poisoning, since the current therapy of such intoxications shows some limitations. A previous rat in vivo study confirmed the therapeutic effect of PTE, which were specifically designed for VX breakdown, and demonstrated rapid degradation of VX in whole blood samples. The present study now focuses on the degradation of VX and its distribution in organ tissues of the animals used in the aforementioned study. In order to gain a broader overview, we have extended the investigations to the VX metabolites EA-2192 and EMPA by using methods developed for an LC-ESI-MS/MS system. Applying these methods, we were able to verify the effectiveness of the PTE treatment and gained an overview of VX tissue distribution in poisoned but untreated rats. • Rat tissue samples after VX and phosphotriesterase administration were studied. • The distribution of VX, EMPA, EA-2192 in various rat tissues was studied. • Modified LC-ESI-MS/MS methods were applied. • PTE administration results in markedly lower or even absent VX tissue levels. • An overview of tissue distribution of EMPA and EA-2192 was gained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) affecting populations is considered a public health issue in South/Southeast Asia. The purpose of this study was to analyze the scientometric characteristics and research trends of OSF. All the papers on OSF were comprehensively retrieved from the Scopus database. Regional comparison (India versus outside of India) and chronological comparison (before 2015 versus after 2015) were performed. Among all the 1357 papers on OSF, 930 (68.5%) were from India. In India, biology research on antioxidant, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix were distinctive keywords. Risk factors of smokeless tobacco and gutkha and the roles of saliva and blood sampling were also distinctive keywords in India. In outside of India, biology research on myofibroblast, alpha smooth muscle actin, microRNA, long untranslated RNA, and protein p53 were distinctive keywords. The trend of biology research on connective tissue, genotype, genetic predisposition, messenger RNA, and cytology before 2015 has changed to research on myofibroblast, biological marker, microRNA, epithelial mesenchymal transition, extracellular matrix, and oxidative stress after 2015. The trend of clinical aspects of surgery and mouth hygiene before 2015 has changed to the aspects of adverse event/effects, complication, and quality of life after 2015. This scientometric study elucidated the current scenario and research trends of OSF, and would help in improving in reciprocal collaboration and communication for this disease control in South/Southeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrent genetic abnormalities affecting pivotal signaling pathways are the hallmark of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The identification of these aberrations remains clinically important. Therefore, we sought to determine the cytogenetic profile and the mutational status of TP53 and RAS genes among Moroccan childhood cases of ALL. In total, 35 patients with childhood ALL were enrolled in the study. The diagnosis and treatment were established in the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Center at the Children's Hospital of Rabat. Chromosome banding analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to detect genetic aberrations. Blood samples were screened for TP53 and RAS mutations using Sanger sequencing. Of the 35 cases, 30 were B-lineage ALL (85.7 %). Moreover, a male predominance was observed. Cytogenetic analysis revealed chromosomal anomalies in 27 cases (77.1 %). The most frequent aberrations were high hyperdiploidy and BCR/ABL rearrangement. Interestingly, we found the rare t(15;16) and the t(8;14), which are uncommon translocations in pediatric B-ALL. The mutational analysis revealed Pro72Arg (rs1042522:C > G) and Arg213Arg (rs1800372: A > G) in TP53. In correlation with cytogenetic data, rs1042522:C > G showed a significant association with the occurrence of chromosomal translocations (p = 0.04). However, no variant was detected in NRAS and KRAS genes. Our findings emphasize the significance of detecting chromosomal abnormalities as relevant prognostic markers. We also suggest a low occurrence of genetic variants among Moroccan children with ALL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosomal abnormalities are the main cause of birth defects, intellectual disability, and miscarriages. They contribute to significant human morbidity and infant mortality. Here we report for the first time the chromosomal abnormalities encountered in the population of Eastern Morocco. Furthermore, we describe a new case of a de novo partial trisomy 13q combined with a terminal deletion in an 11-day-old girl. From November 2015 to March 2022, 195 patients from the BRO Biobank who were clinically suspected of having chromosomal abnormalities were referred to the cytogenetics laboratory of the Genetics Unit of the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Oujda for cytogenetic study. Karyotyping analysis was performed on peripheral blood samples using standard R banding techniques. To identify single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and copy number variants (CNVs), Illumina SNP array was used. Among 195 studied cases, 32 (16.4 %) had abnormal karyotypes, of which 12 cases had numerical aberrations while 20 cases had structural aberrations. The most common numerical aberrations were Turner syndrome and Down syndrome followed by Edward, Patau, and Klinefelter syndromes. For structural aberrations, translocations were the most common, followed by derivative chromosomes, inversions, deletions, and an addition on chromosome 13 identified in an 11-day-old girl. To further characterize this addition, SNP array was carried out and revealed a 58.8-Mb duplication in region 13q14.3q34 associated with a 1-Mb deletion in region 13q34. Follow-up parental chromosomes analysis showed normal karyotypes for the parents, confirming that this partial trisomy 13q was de novo. Comparison of the phenotype associated with this novel duplication on chromosome 13q with those previously reported confirmed the considerable variability in the phenotype of the patients with partial trisomy 13q. This study provided the first report on chromosomal abnormalities in Eastern Morocco and it enriched the phenotype spectrum of partial trisomy 13q and further confirmed the genotype–phenotype correlations. Furthermore, these findings justify the need to set up microarray comparative genomic hybridization techniques in Morocco for better genetic diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic drug that is commonly administered for obstetric haemorrhage. Conventional viscoelastic tests are not sensitive to tranexamic acid, but the novel ClotPro® TPA-test can measure tranexamic acid-induced inhibition of fibrinolysis. We aimed to evaluate the TPA-test in pregnant and non-pregnant women. We performed an in vitro study of whole blood samples spiked with tranexamic acid from pregnant women in the first, second, and third trimester (n =20 per group) and from non-pregnant women (n =20). We performed ClotPro TPA-tests of whole blood sample and ClotPro EX-tests, FIB-tests, and TPA-tests. Clot lysis was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner up to a tranexamic acid concentration of 6.25 mg L−1. At tranexamic acid concentrations of 12.5 mg L−1 and above, clot lysis was completely inhibited. The concentration–effect relationship of tranexamic acid did not differ in a clinically important manner in blood from pregnant women across all three trimesters or from non-pregnant controls. A median maximum lysis cut-off value of at9 least 16% (25–75th percentiles 15–18), a median clot lysis time of 3600 s (25–75th percentiles 3600–3600), or both was associated with a tranexamic acid concentration of least 12.5 mg L−1. The ClotPro® TPA-test is sensitive in detecting inhibition of fibrinolysis by tranexamic acid in whole blood samples of pregnant and non-pregnant women. The concentration–effect relationship of tranexamic acid to inhibit fibrinolysis in whole blood did not differ for women in the first, second, and third trimester or for non-pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in patients with indeterminate small choroidal melanocytic lesions (SCMLs). Retrospective case series. Forty-seven patients with choroidal melanocytic lesions 2.5 mm or less in tumor thickness and ≤ 10 mm in largest basal diameter (LBD). Blood samples were analyzed for CTCs and the presence of monosomy-3 (M3) in CTCs. Tissue biopsy was performed in the patients who were CTC-positive (pCTC). Presence and M3 status of the CTCs with regard to the clinical characteristics and results from tissue biopsy. Median thickness of all (n = 47) lesions was 1.1 mm (range: 0.2–2.5 mm), and LBD was 5.6 mm (range: 2.0–10.0 mm). Circulating tumor cells were found in 25 patients (n = 25). This group was classified as pCTC and compared with the CTC-negative (nCTC) group consisting of 22 patients (n = 22). Median tumor dimensions in the pCTC versus the nCTC group were 1.6 mm (range: 0.6–2.5 mm) versus 0.5 mm (range: 0.2–2.5 mm) for thickness and 6.6 mm (range: 4.1–10.0 mm) versus 4.0 mm (range: 2.0–8.0 mm) for LBD, respectively. Both LBD and thickness were positively associated (P < 0.001) with the presence of CTC. Compared with the nCTC group, a higher percentage of the pCTC group exhibited LBD > 5 mm (36% vs. 88%), subretinal fluid (9.1% vs. 56%), orange pigment (4.5% vs. 60%), sonographic hollowness (9.1% vs. 60%), and the presence of multiple risk factors (0% vs. 68% for ≥3 factors) with P < 0.001 for all parameters. No significant difference was detected in the clinical parameters of the patients who had disomy-3 (D3) (n = 7) versus M3 (n = 17) in their CTC. The tissue biopsy confirmed the uveal melanoma (UM) in 22 of the 25 pCTC patients (88%), whereas no conclusive diagnosis could be determined in the remaining 3 cases because of insufficient or invalid material. We report compelling evidence for the potential of liquid biopsy as an additional tool to screen SCMLs for malignancy. These findings pave the way toward the implementation of liquid biopsy to detect small UM and monitor melanocytic lesions. Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• All positive viral markers in blood donors were identified in new donors. • Pre-donation laboratory screening can reduce the risk of TTI transmission by identifying infected new donors at the pre-donation phase. • Pre-donation screening program can lead to donor loss. This donor loss resulted the more effort to retain blood donors to compensate the donor loss. The risk of transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) remains a concern in transfusion medicine. Since the rate of infection among first-time blood donors is higher than repeated donors, strategies to enhance blood safety can focus on new donors. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of pre-donation viral screening of new donors on blood safety. The pre-donation screening of new donors was implemented in the Kurdistan blood center. In this program, new donors who met the blood donation criteria were informed about the program and only a blood sample was donated for HBs Ag, HCV Ab, and HIV Ab testing. New donors with negative results were invited to donate blood after 12 weeks. A unit of blood was collected from eligible returned donors. Laboratory tests were performed again using the same methods. Finally, the prevalence of confirmed positive TTI results among donated blood in Kurdistan blood center was compared before and after the establishment of program. During the study, 4,434 new donors were screened for viral markers. A total of 41 new donors (0.92%, 95% CI, 0.007–0.13) had repeatedly reactive results and infection was confirmed in blood sample of 24 donors (0.54%, 95% CI, 0.003–0.008). Overall, 56% of new donors returned for blood donation. Prevalence of confirmed TTIs markers in collected blood units was 0.27% and 0 before and after implementing program, respectively. This study indicated that Pre-donation screening can reduce the risk of TTI transmission by identifying infected donors at the pre-donation phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood sampling, which is frequently performed on children admitted to hospital, causes them pain, anxiety and fear. The study was carried out to determine the effects of dry heat and dry cold application before blood sampling on pain, anxiety and fear levels in school age children. The study was conducted between June and January 2021 with a parallel-group randomized controlled experimental design. It was carried out with 117 children who applied to the Pediatric Blood Collection Polyclinic of a training and research hospital. The children were assigned to dry heat application, dry cold application and control group by simple randomization. Data were collected using the Child-Family Introductory Information Form, Wong Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBFPS), Child Fear Anxiety Scale (CFAS) and Medical Procedure Fear Scale (MPFS). In the data analysis, descriptive statistics, the Kruskal-Wallis H test, the Dunn test, Yates correction and the Pearson Chi-Square test were used. A level of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. It was found that children who were treated with dry heat and dry cold before blood sampling experienced less pain. The anxiety of the children in the dry heat treatment group was lower than the control group. According to the children's MPFS Operational Fear sub-dimension median scores, procedural fear was found to be lower in the dry heat application group. Pediatric nurses can safely use dry heat and dry cold application in the management of invasive procedure-related pain, and dry heat application in the management of anxiety. This trial is registered with the US National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov) under the number NCT05974319. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemolysis of blood samples from emergency department (ED) patients leads to delays in treatment and disposition. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of hemolysis and variables predictive of hemolysis. This observational cohort study was conducted among three institutions: academic tertiary care center and two suburban community EDs, with an annual census of over 270,000 ED visits. Data were obtained from the electronic health record. Adults requiring laboratory analysis with at least one peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) inserted within the ED were eligible. Primary outcome was hemolysis of lab samples and secondary outcomes included variables related to PIVC failure. Between January 8, 2021 and May 9, 2022, 141,609 patient encounters met inclusion criteria. The average age was 55.5 and 57.5% of patients were female. Hemolysis occurred in 24,359 (17.2%) samples. In a multivariate analysis, when compared to 20-gauge catheters, smaller 22-gauge catheters had an increased odds of hemolysis (OR 1.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.65-1.91; P <.001), while larger 18-gauge catheters had a lower odds of hemolysis (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.90-0.98; P =.0046). Additionally, when compared to antecubital placement, hand/wrist placement demonstrated increased odds of hemolysis (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.97-2.15; P <.001). Finally, hemolysis was associated with a higher rate of PIVC failure (OR 1.06; 95%CI 1.00-1.13; P = 0.043). This large observational analysis demonstrates that lab hemolysis of is a frequent occurrence among ED patients. Given the added risk of hemolysis with certain placement variables, clinicians should consider catheter gauge/placement location to avoid hemolysis that may result in patient care delays and prolonged hospital stays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 as a viral disease has brought up the need to exercise more than before due to its physiological effects on health. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of 12-week of aerobic exercise on female students' hormone levels and lipid profile with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a 12-week quasi-experimental with pretest, posttest research design among 40 Iranian female students aged 18–14 with PCOS, we randomly allocated the participants to either an experimental (they performed aerobic exercises three 60-minute sessions per week at home using content production) or a control condition. Their anthropometric and blood samples (e.g., testosterone, estrogen, prolactin, and lipid profile) were taken in two stages before and after the training protocol. The results of analysis indicated that 12-week of aerobic exercise reduced testosterone (P = 0.041), prolactin (P = 0.001), estrogen (P = 0.001), body mass (P = 0.002), body mass index (P = 0.002), cholesterol (P = 0.005), triglyceride (P = 0.001) and low-density lipoprotein (P = 0.001), whilst increased high-density lipoprotein (P = 0.002). Findings demonstrated that performing aerobic exercises is an effective and non-invasive method that could have a positive effect on young girls' PCOS during COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial dysfunction was shown to be involved in schizophrenia pathophysiology. Abnormal energy states can lead to alterations in neural function and thereby to the cognitive and behavioral aberrations characteristics of schizophrenia. Voltage-dependent anion-selective channels (VDAC) are located in the outer mitochondrial membrane and are involved in mitochondrial energy production. Only few studies explored VDAC genes' expression in schizophrenia, and their results were not consistent. We conducted a systematic meta-analysis of ten brain samples gene expression datasets (overall 368 samples, 179 schizophrenia, 189 controls). In addition, we conducted a meta-analysis of three blood samples datasets (overall 300 samples, 167 schizophrenia, 133 controls). Pairwise correlation analysis was conducted between the VDAC and proteasome subunit genes' expression patterns. VDAC1, VDAC2 and VDAC3 showed significant down-regulation in brain samples of patients with schizophrenia. They also showed significant positive correlations with the proteasome subunit genes' expression levels. Our findings suggest that VDAC genes might play a role in mitochondrial dysfunction in schizophrenia. VDAC1 was down-regulated also in blood samples, which suggests its potential role as a biomarker for schizophrenia. The correlation with proteasome subunits, which were previously shown to be down-regulated in a subgroup of the patients, suggests that our findings might characterize a subgroup of the patients. This direction has the potential to lead to patients' stratification and more precisely-targeted therapy and necessitates further study. • Schizophrenia is associated with altered mitochondrial energy production. • Mitochondrial energy production involve Voltage-dependent anion-selective channels (VDAC). • We performed meta-analysis of VDAC genes expression schizophrenia brain and blood samples. • A significant down-regulation of VDAC 1–3 in brain samples and of VDAC1 in blood samples was detected. • VDAC genes might play a role in the mitochondrial dysfunction seen in schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In January 2020 the UK changed from a 2 + 1 schedule for 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to a 1 + 1 schedule (doses at 3 and 12 months) based on a randomized immunogenicity trial comparing the two schedules. Carriage prevalence measured at the time of booster and 6 months later in 191 of the 213 study infants was 57 % (109/191) and 60 % (114/190) respectively. There were eight episodes of vaccine-type (VT) or vaccine-related 6C carriage in the 2 + 1 and six in the 1 + 1 group; ≥4-fold rises in serotype-specific IgG in 71 children with paired post-booster and follow up blood samples at 21–33 months of age were found in 20 % (7/35) of the 2 + 1 and 15 % (6/41) of the 1 + 1 group. VTs identified in carriage and inferred from serology were similar comprising 3, 19A and 19F. Dropping a priming dose from the 2 + 1 PCV 13 schedule did not increase VT carriage in the study cohort. Ongoing population level carriage studies will be important to confirm this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effect of a reduced dose regime (1 + 1) of PCV10 and PCV13 along with 3-dose regimes on pneumococcal vaccine-type (VT) carriage and immunogenicity in the first two years of life in PCV-naïve Indian children. A total of 805 healthy infants aged 6–8 weeks were randomised to 7 groups (n = 115). Six groups received SynflorixTM(PCV10) or Prevenar13TM(PCV13) in the following schedules: 3 + 0 (three primary at 6, 10, and 14 weeks); 2 + 1 (two primary 6 and 14 weeks with booster at 9 months; 1 + 1 (one primary at 14 weeks with booster at 9 months). The 7th group was a PCV-naïve control group. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected at 6, 18 weeks, 9, 10, 15, and 18 months of age. Venous blood samples were collected at 18 weeks, 9, 10, and 18 months of age for assessment of sero-specific IgG antibodies. Additionally, functional activity using a serotype specific opsonophagocytic assay (OPA) was assessed at 10 and 18 months of age in a subset (20%) of participants. All schedules of PCV13 showed significant 13VT carriage reduction in the second year of life as compared to control. At 15 months of age, PCV13 (1 + 1) showed 45 % reduction in 13VT-carriage compared to the control [OR = 0.55 (95% CI; 0.31–0.97), p= 0.038]. None of the PCV10 schedules showed significant reduction in 10VT carriage in the second year. Although not powered for these outcomes, at 18 months of age, 1 + 1 and 2 + 1 schedules of both vaccines demonstrated higher sero-responders for all serotypes, higher geometric mean concentrations (GMC) for all serotypes except 23F [with both vaccines], higher percent OPA responders and OPA geometric mean titres (GMT) compared to the 3 + 0 schedules for all serotypes. The reduced dose schedule (1 + 1) of PCV13 results in significant VT-carriage reduction in the second year of life. Immune protection provided by 1 + 1 schedules of PCV10 and PCV13 in the second year of life is comparable to WHO-recommended 3-dose schedules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate reporting of blood gas samples is dependent upon following proper preanalytical sample handling requirements though there is variation for sample acceptability criteria across institutions. We examined five common sample types (arterial, venous, umbilical arterial, umbilical venous and capillary) stored at either room temperature or on crushed ice in a time series (0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 180, 240 min) and applied local regulatory and/or institutional allowable performance limits to determine the need for cold preservation and/or maximum stability time for pH, pO 2 , pCO 2 , glucose, lactate, sodium, potassium, chloride, and ionized calcium where applicable in each sample type. Although changes in sample pO 2 and/or lactate values were responsible, in part or in whole, for surpassing the allowable limits in nearly all sample types analyzed, this was not uniformly observed across sample types within the typical time limits that are referenced in literature. Furthermore, we demonstrated that cold preservation may not ubiquitously provide longer stability for blood gas specimens and this is dependent on the sample type and analyte in question. Nevertheless, these results demonstrate the known instability of pO 2 and lactate and suggest that it may be possible to simplify the monitoring of preanalytical conditions by first evaluating pO 2 and lactate in patient blood gas samples if applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The impact of environmental factors on epigenetics signatures testing among preanalytical procession. • Simulate the temperature, time, and multiple freeze–thaw cycles that blood samples may face during collection, transportation, storage, and handling. • The changing trend of DNA methylation along with short-term storage time in different temperatures. • The temperature sensitivity differs between different genes. • Call for blood samples processing quality control and sample collection detailed Standard Operating Procedure among national biobank and population-based research. Stability is crucial for the clinical applicable biomarker such as DNA methylation profiles. However, the influence of various blood processing on the DNA methylation signatures have been barely studied. Here, we systematically evaluated the impact of temporary storage and frozen and thaw on the levels of DNA methylation. The methylation intensities of 13 CpG loci from 53 individuals (42 healthy participants and 11 lung cancer patients) whose blood samples were processed by up to 14 various protocols were quantitatively determined by the mass spectrometry, obtaining more than 8,000 quantitative data. We disclosed a trend of accumulatively increased DNA methylation along with time when the blood from healthy people were stored for up to 96 h at room temperature (RT), whereas the storage at 4°C had much weaker effects or no impact. On the contrary, the methylation patterns in the blood of lung cancer patients were more stable at both RT and 4°C even for 96 h. Multiple cycles of frozen and thaw could result in demethylation, but was more significant to the blood than to the extracted DNA. Our study indicated that the blood processing in vitro could influence the DNA methylation signatures and introduce unexpected biases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circulating white blood cells (leucocytes), which form the peripheral immune system, are crucial in inflammatory processes but their role in brain structural change in schizophrenia has been scarcely studied. With this study we want to determine how and which type of white blood cells are associated with hippocampal volume (as a key structure in schi- zophrenia etiopathology) in first episode psychosis (FEP) patients. Moreover, to determine the association between white blood cells and clinical symptomatology, including positive and negative symptoms, cognition and depression. For this purpose fifty drug-naïve FEP were included in this study. All patients underwent an assessment at baseline and at 1 year follow-up, including sociodemographic and clinical variables (substance use, DUP, PANSS, GAF and CDSS). Fasting blood samples were obtained before administering any medication at baseline. Structural T1 MRI was performed at baseline and brain volumes were quantified. In the present study, higher lymphocyte count was associated with larger right hippocampal volume at baseline in FEP drug-naive patients. Higher lymphocyte count was associated with lower depressive symptomatology measured with CDSS and Marder depressive factor from PANSS at baseline and 1-year follow –up. These results suggest that lymphocytes may have a protective effect in hippocampal volume at baseli- ne in antipsychotic naïve FEP and also, are associated with a better depressive course over follow up. These results open the door to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer rarely metastasizes to the central nervous system (CNS). In this single-institution study, 12 of 579 patients with extracranial metastatic prostate cancer had CNS metastases identified on imaging, including six patients with brain metastases. Once patients developed extracranial metastases, there was no statistically significant difference in survival between patients who developed CNS metastases compared to those who did not. Background: Prostate cancer (PC) rarely metastasizes to the central nervous system (CNS). In this retrospective singleinstitution study at a tertiary cancer center, we aimed to evaluate the clinical and genetic characteristics of advanced PC patients with CNS metastases. Patients and Methods: Between January 2010 and March 2020, 12 out of 579 patients with extracranial metastatic PC were identified to have CNS metastases based on imaging, including six patients with brain metastases (BMs), five patients with dural metastases, and one unknown. These patients were followed up through March 2022. Clinical data were compared to the overall cohort of patients evaluated at our cancer center during that decade. Genetics information was also analyzed for the patients with available data via cell-free DNA (cfDNA) blood samples. Results: Median time from development of extracranial metastatic disease to development of CNS metastases was 5.5 years (95% CI, 1.8-7.0). Median overall survival (mOS) from diagnosis of CNS metastases was 6.1 months (95% CI, 5.8-8.2). Notably, there was no significant difference in mOS after development of extracranial metastases in patients with CNS metastases (6.4 years; 95% CI, 4.6-7.9) compared to the patients without known CNS metastases (5.2 years; 95% CI, 4.6-5.7) (P = .91). For the cohort with CNS metastases, nine patients had germline testing and seven patients had somatic testing via cfDNA. Conclusion: PC patients with CNS metastases did not often die from a neurological cause. With advancing therapies, the overall prognosis of metastatic PC continues to improve, and CNS metastases will become more common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HVE 4102Bo-AMS dedicated to 14C analyses minimizes measurement background by using a charge state selector in the accelerator terminal. The measured blank 14C/12C level for solid samples was determined to be 5.6 × 10-16, corresponding to more than 60,000 radiocarbon years. Tests on ion source memory indicated a prompt (<10 sec) decrease from OxII 14C/12C ratio (1.58 × 10-12) to ∼1.2 × 10-15 for the next sample (>3 orders of magnitude) followed by an approx. 40 s decay time to the background level of 5 × 10-16. The AMS system demonstrated its capability of supporting biomedical/pharmaceutical applications using CO 2 samples from blood plasma with 14C activities ranging from 1002 to 0.752 mBq/mL in a qualification test performed with an external partner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximately 10 to 14 painful procedures per day are performed in infants during the hospital stay. We aimed to determine the effect of reflexology applied to the sole during painful procedures on pain perception in newborns compared with other nonpharmacologic methods. Our study was planned as a randomized controlled trial in term infants being followed up in the neonatal intensive care unit and maternity ward. To reduce pain during collection of venous blood or heel lance reflexology on the soles of the foot, 24% sucrose solution, kangaroo care, and classical music listening were applied to the infants. The Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS) was used to assess newborns during acute pain. A total of 300 patients were enrolled in the study. Higher pain scores and crying times were observed during heel blood collection. All analgesic methods significantly reduced NIPS scores during heel blood collection. Sucrose was the most effective method, followed by reflexology. The best method that significantly shortened the crying time was again sucrose solution followed by reflexology, kangaroo care, and classical music, during heel blood collection. However, none of the nonpharmacologic methods was effective during venous blood collection. Although sucrose was the most effective method, reflexology has significant positive effects, especially on average heartbeat, reducing pain, and shortening crying times during heel blood sampling. Reflexology might be considered among the nonpharmacologic methods to be applied before routine interventions, but still, there is a need for further studies to investigate the efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A new thromboelastometry analyser (ClotPro®) was developed with advanced diagnostics. The reference ranges of ClotPro® in children ages 0-16 yr have not been reported.Methods: In this prospective study, venous blood samples from 321 patients were obtained from children undergoing elective surgery after induction of anaesthesia. Reference ranges were defined by calculating the 2.5% and 97.5% percentiles for each age group (0-3 months, 4-12 months, 13-24 months, 2-5 yr, 6-10 yr, and 11-16 yr).Results: Reference ranges of the ClotPro® analyser in all age groups demonstrated significant differences in some parameters between age groups. In the first 3 months of life, a significant shortening of the clotting time (CT) in the extrinsically activated test (EX-test) was observed in children aged 0-3 months compared with children of all older age groups (P<0.001), whereas there were no overall differences in the intrinsically activated test (IN-test). In both assays, the clot amplitude 5 and 10 min after CT (A5, A10 value) was significantly higher in the first year of life compared with children older than 1 yr (EX-test and IN-test A5 and A10, respectively; P<0.001). The strength of fibrin polymerisation (FIB-test) was significantly higher in the first 3 months of life (A5 and A10, P<0.003).Conclusions: ClotPro® reference ranges were determined for six paediatric age groups, and show age-dependent differences in specific parameters. These values will be helpful in monitoring haemostasis in paediatric patients and for developing tailored bleeding management protocols.Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04190615. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pre-analytical errors can commonly occur when blood samples are drawn from an IV line that is being concurrently used for the delivery of crystalloid solutions. • Wet chemistry experiments can provide detailed information on the magnitude and direction of changes in each analyte of a basic metabolic panel due to increased IV fluid contamination. • Multianalyte delta check procedures can be an effective method for the detection of IV fluid contamination. • Future studies should evaluate the performance (e.g., sensitivity and specificity) of the proposed delta check procedures for detecting IV fluid contamination in laboratory blood samples. Laboratorians are left unguided by a paucity of literature on how to configure rules for the detection of intravenous (IV) fluid contamination in blood samples. We designed a study to determine the in vitro effect of increasing blood sample contamination from commonly used crystalloid solutions and how these observations can guide the derivation of multianalyte delta checks to detect such pre-analytical error. In this study, we spiked increasing volumes of commonly used IV fluids (normal saline (NS), lactated ringers (LR), and 5% dextrose) into blood samples that were collected from healthy donors. Routine chemistry analytes were measured and compared between neat and contrived samples. From these observations, we derived several permutations of multianalyte delta checks using the basic metabolic panel framework and evaluated rule performance using retrospective data. The wet chemistry experiments showed that increasing the volume of crystalloid solution contamination significantly changed several analytes. Subsequently derived multianalyte delta check procedures were applied to retrospective data. For all IV fluids tested, smaller magnitudes of analyte change resulted in more samples flagged. Multianalyte delta checks may be an effective method for the detection of IV fluid contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement is useful, but dissociation with total serum bilirubin (TSB) is a clinical problem in measurement. We verified the accuracy of the latest version of the JM-105 jaundice meter. The TcB, TSB, and hematocrit (Hct) measurements obtained in the first 4 days of life in 2788 term neonates were analyzed. When divided into 2-mg/dL classes, the difference between the TcB and TSB measurements did not change as TcB increased, but both overestimation and underestimation of TcB increased as TcB increased. At TcB greater than 11 mg/dL, inaccurate measurements with dissociation greater than 2 mg/dL exceeded 10% of the TcB measurements. The Hct value was associated with overestimation and underestimation. To evaluate neonatal jaundice accurately, it is desirable to measure TSB by blood sampling before discharge from obstetrics or in the case of worsening jaundice on day 4 or 5 of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A homogeneous PCR-based assay for sensitive and specific detection of antibodies in serum or dried blood spots (DBS) is presented and the method is used to monitor individuals infected with or vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. Detection probes were prepared by conjugating the recombinant spike protein subunit 1 (S1), containing the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2, to each of a pair of specific oligonucleotides. The same was done for the nucleocapsid protein (NP). Upon incubation with serum or DBS samples, the bi- or multivalency of the antibodies (IgG, IgA or IgM) brings pairs of viral proteins with their conjugated oligonucleotides in proximity, allowing the antibodies to be detected by a modified proximity extension assay (PEA). Anti-S1 and anti-NP antibodies could be detected simultaneously from one incubation reaction. This Antibody PEA (AbPEA) test uses only 1 µl of neat or up to 100,000-fold diluted serum or one ø1.2 mm disc cut from a DBS. All 100 investigated sera and 21 DBS collected prior to the COVID-19 outbreak were negative, demonstrating a 100% specificity. The area under the curve, as evaluated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis reached 0.998 (95%CI: 0.993–1) for samples taken from 11 days after symptoms onset. The kinetics of antibody responses were monitored after a first and second vaccination using serially collected DBS from 14 individuals. AbPEA offers highly specific and sensitive solution-phase antibody detection without requirement for secondary antibodies, no elution step when using DBS sample in a simple procedure that lends itself to multiplex survey of antibody responses. • Highly sensitive PCR-based antibody detection. • Antibody Proximity Extension Assay (AbPEA). • Detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from finger-prick dried blood spots (DBS). • Homogeneous serological assay suitable for multiplexing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) has played an important role in clinical medicine for precise dosing. Currently, chromatographic technology and immunoassay detection are widely used in TDM and have met most of the needs of clinical drug therapy. However, some problems still exist in practical applications, such as complicated operation and the influence of endogenous substances. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) has been applied to detect the concentrations of small molecules, including pesticide residues in crops and antibiotics in milk, which indicates its potential for in vivo drug detection. In this study, a new SPR-based biosensor for detecting chloramphenicol (CAP) in blood samples was developed and validated using methodological verification, including precision, accuracy, matrix effect, and extraction recovery rate, and compared with the classic ultra-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet (UPLC-UV) method. The detection range of SPR was 0.1–50 ng/mL and the limit of detection was 0.099 ± 0.023 ng/mL, which was lower than that of UPLC-UV. The intra-day and inter-day accuracies of SPR were 98%–114% and 110%–122%, which met the analysis requirement. The results show that the SPR biosensor is identical to UPLC-UV in the detection of CAP in rat blood samples; moreover, the SPR biosensor has better sensitivity. Therefore, the present study shows that SPR technology can be used for the detection of small molecules in the blood samples and has the potential to become a method for therapeutic drug monitoring. [Display omitted] • A new biosensor based on SPR was developed for detecting CAP in blood samples. • The SPR biosensor was validated using methodological verification. • The SPR biosensor is identical to UPLC-UV in the detection of blood samples and has higher sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 3D-µPAD was fabricated using an in-house computer-controlled X-Y knife plotter. • i1 Pro mini spectrophotometer is used to analyze colored products. • A mixed indicator provides a high detection sensitivity. • This developed method was efficient for triglyceride analysis in blood samples. In this study, we developed a three-dimensional microfluidic paper-based analytical device (3D-µPAD) for quantifying triglycerides (TGs) in whole blood samples. This method provides an alternative to conventional TGs detection and offers several advantages. The 3D-µPAD was fabricated using an in-house computer-controlled X-Y knife plotter, eliminating the need for hydrophobic reagents. This approach results in a more rapid, simple, highly reproducible, and cost-effective mass production process. To separate plasma from a drop of whole blood, the LF1 membrane was incorporated as a sample zone on the 3D-µPAD. The hydrolysis of TGs was catalyzed by lipase, producing H+ ions detected by a phenol red indicator read against cyan ink to reduce background interference. A spectrophotometer (i1 Pro 3 mini) measured the green color intensity in the 3D-µPAD's detection zone, which was proportional to the TGs concentration and quantified within 10 min. Results were consistent with clinical methods, with a detection limit of 0.182 mmol L−1 in the 0.1–6 mmol L 0207B1 TGs concentration range. Using mixed indicators successfully reduced background interference and enhanced sensitivity for TGs determination. The 3D-µPAD demonstrated a storage stability of approximately 30 days. Our 3D-µPAD prototype offers a rapid, cost-effective, and user-friendly approach for pre-clinical TGs diagnostics, expanding the potential for point of care whole blood sample analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many epidemiological studies use a single blood sample per participant to assess exposure, but it is unclear how well a single sample represents longer term exposure. We performed a simulation study using summary statistics for repeated serum PFOA measurements from several previous studies in men to generate plausible serum concentrations over time, taking within-subject correlations into account. Simulated serum concentrations for controls were categorized into quintiles at each time point, and used to determine the extent of misclassification at each time point compared to the "true" long-term average exposure. We then generated case counts by quintile needed to produce an odds ratio (OR) of 1.5 for the highest vs. lowest quintile categorized based on long term exposure, and used the same misclassification rates observed in the controls to simulate misclassified exposure quintiles for cases. Comparing long term vs. single baseline exposure measures for repeated serum samples collected within about 5–13 years of each other revealed similar effect estimates, although there was a small bias to the null. Trend tests across quintiles were mostly significant using either baseline or long-term exposure. For the general population sample of men in Norway, with 5 repeated measurements over 28 years, serum PFOA was substantially lower prior to 1987, and using either of the two earliest samples as the exposure metric, compared to the long term average, produced larger bias to the null and non-significant trend tests; however using later time points as the exposure metric resulted in only a small bias. Using data based on studies of men, single baseline serum samples represented rather well the mean of repeated samples collected up to 13 years apart, but were not always reliable surrogates for average exposure over 3 decades, during which time PFOA exposure levels in the general population have changed substantially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring of Leishmania transmission is considered a strategic priority for sustaining elimination of visceral leishmaniasis as a public health problem in the Indian subcontinent. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether serological surveys can distinguish between communities with and without Leishmania transmission, and to assess which serological marker performs best. Seven villages were selected from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh state, India, and categorized as either currently endemic (CE), previously endemic (PE) or nonendemic (NE). Blood samples were analyzed with the rK39 RDT, direct agglutination test (DAT), and rK39 ELISA. Contrary to the rK39 RDT and DAT, the rK39 ELISA showed a significant difference between all three categories of endemicity, with a seroprevalence of 5.21% in CE villages, 1.55% in PE villages, and 0.13% in NE villages. Even when only looking at the seroprevalence among children aged <10 years, the rK39 ELISA was still able to differentiate between villages with and without ongoing transmission. Our findings suggest the rK39 ELISA to be the most promising marker for monitoring of Leishmania transmission. Further validation is required, and practical, context-adapted recommendations need to be formulated in order to guide policymakers toward meaningful and sustainable surveillance strategies in the post-elimination phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA detection in dried blood spots (DBS) performed a specificity of 100 %. • The sensitivity of EBV DNA detection in DBS increased with elevating viral load. • There was a good correlation in EBV DNA quantification between DBS and whole blood samples. • Our research firstly demonstrated the feasibility of using DBS for qualitative and semi-quantitative detection of EBV DNA. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous and oncogenic virus that is associated with various malignancies and non-malignant diseases and EBV DNA detection is widely used for the diagnosis and prognosis prediction for these diseases. The dried blood spots (DBS) sampling method holds great potential as an alternative to venous blood samples in geographically remote areas, for individuals with disabilities, or for newborn blood collection. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the viability of detecting EBV DNA load from DBS. Matched whole blood and DBS samples were collected for EBV DNA extraction and quantification detection. EBV DNA detection in DBS presented a specificity of 100 %. At different EBV DNA viral load in whole blood, the sensitivity of EBV DNA detection in DBS was 38.78 % (≥1 copies/mL), 43.18 % (≥500 copies/mL), 58.63 % (≥1000 copies/mL), 71.43 % (≥2000 copies/mL), 82.35 % (≥4000 copies/mL), and 92.86 % (≥5000 copies/mL), respectively. These results indicated that the sensitivity of EBV DNA detection in DBS increased with elevating viral load. Moreover, there was good correlation between EBV DNA levels measured in whole blood and DBS, and on average, the viral load measured in whole blood was about 6-fold higher than in DBS. Our research firstly demonstrated the feasibility of using DBS for qualitative and semi-quantitative detection of EBV DNA for diagnosis and surveillance of EBV-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study is to measure the uranium concentration levels in the blood of Iraqi workers employed in certain government companies. Assessing the initial level of uranium toxicity in their blood and the possibility of health problems occurring. 184 blood samples from Iraqi government companies and the control group were collected in this study. A solid-state nuclear track detector (CR-39) was used to measure the amount of uranium present. Two drops of blood (100 μl) were placed on CR-39. The CR-39 was irradiated with a thermal neutron using the fission-track technique (241Am-9Be) to determine the uranium concentration in blood samples. The statistical analysis is carried out using the Origin Lab 2024 version. The results show the average of uranium concentration at all locations has a higher level compared to the control group. The blood samples from workers at the phosphate company had the highest amount (1.021 ± 0.050 μg/l), compared to samples from other factories. This result confirms that there is a connection between the concentration of uranium and phosphate substances. The results suggest that there is a slight increase in uranium levels that is related to both age and years of employment. • Uranium concentration levels in the blood samples of Iraqi workers employed were measured. • The fission-track technique (241Am-9Be) was utilized to measure the fission fragments. • The concentration uranium average recorded a higher value compared to the control samples. • The result confirms a connection between the uranium concentration and phosphate substances. • A study found that smokers have slightly higher levels of uranium in their blood than nonsmokers. • The results show a slight increase in uranium concentrations with increasing age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics of commercial gentamicin-impregnated collagen sponges (GICS) applied subcutaneously in dogs. In six healthy beagles, an 11 ×6 cm subcutaneous pocket was created, a folded 10×10 cm GICS was inserted, and saline was injected to mimic a seroma. Wound fluid samples were aspirated, and the gentamicin concentration was determined. Simultaneously, blood samples were collected to evaluate the corresponding systemic gentamicin concentration. All samples were collected before and 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, 120, and 168 hours after GICS placement. The local C max of gentamicin was reached after 0.5 hours (range, 0.5–1.0 hours) post-implantation in 5/6 dogs at a median concentration of 2053.3 µg/mL (range, 918.0–2791.9 µg/mL). Whitin 24 hours, the local concentration dropped below the MIC for Staphylococcus sp. (4 µg/mL) in 5/6 dogs. Plasma C max was achieved at a median of 1.2 hours post-implantation (range, 1.0–2.0 hours) and reached a median concentration of 10.3 µg/mL (range, 8.8–18.03 µg/mL). After 6 hours, the gentamicin concentration in the plasma was below 4 µg/mL in all dogs. The GICS provided a high local concentration of gentamicin in a short time with a local Cmax:MIC ratio of 513:1, largely sufficient to eliminate susceptible bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) and Pseudomonas sp., in a clinical setting. The repeated administration of saline in the present study seemed to have induced a quicker gentamicin release from the GICS than described in previous studies that typically dealt with "drier" wounds. • Appropriate antimicrobial selection is more and more challenging. • Gentamicin retains excellent susceptibility against resistent bacteria. • Gentamicin has a poor tissue penetration and narrow therapeutic toxic index. • Gentamicin-impregnated collagen sponges provided high local concentrations. • Plasma gentamicin concentration after local application remained low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

· No side effects or adverse reactions were documented in response to porcine ACTH. · Porcine ACTH at 125 µg/cat was more effective than lower tested doses. · Post-ACTH progesterone increased in response to all porcine ACTH-tested doses, while androstenedione did not. · Δ-aldosterone and Δ-cortisol were equivalent in response to 5 µg/kg and 125 µg/cat. · At 125 µg/cat, cortisol response to porcine ACTH was equivalent to tetracosactide. Porcine adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) has been considered valid for the ACTH stimulation test (ACTHST) in humans and dogs; however, its safety and efficacy for use in cats are unknown. Also, the equivalence between 5 µg/kg and 125 µg/cat dose of synthetic corticotropin (1-24 ACTH - cosyntropin/tetracosactide) is assumed for ACTHST in cats. This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of different porcine recombinant ACTH doses for the ACTHST in healthy cats and its equivalence with tetracosactide. The study was divided into two arms. The first evaluated safety and equivalence of intravenous 1 µg/kg, 5 µg/kg, or 125 µg/cat porcine ACTH in seven healthy cats for the ACTHST evaluating basal and post-ACTH androstenedione, aldosterone, cortisol, and progesterone concentrations. In the second arm, the equivalence of the 125 µg/cat porcine ACTH dose was evaluated compared to results obtained using 125 µg/cat of tetracosactide in ten healthy cats regarding cortisol responses. In all tests, several cat-friendly strategies were adopted, and the ACTHST protocol involved basal and 60-minute post-ACTH blood sampling and intravenous ACTH injection. No adverse reactions were documented, and no tested cat showed any complications during the study. No porcine ACTH tested dose significantly increased androstenedione secretion. In contrast, all tested doses were able to increase progesterone concentration significantly (P < 0.05), and Δ-progesterone in response to 5 µg/kg or 125 µg/cat was considered equivalent (P > 0.99). The 125 µg/cat dose promoted greater responses for both cortisol and aldosterone, characterized by Δ-cortisol (P = 0.009) and Δ-aldosterone (P = 0.004). Despite equivalent Δ-cortisol results in response to 5 µg/kg or 125 µg/cat (P = 0.18); post-ACTH results of cortisol in response to 5 µg/kg only approximate statistical significance when compared with basal (P = 0.07). Porcine ACTH and tetracosactide significantly increased post-ACTH cortisol concentration (P < 0.0001) while the Δ-cortisol was slightly greater in response to the porcine ACTH (P = 0.006). These results suggest porcine ACTH could be an alternative source of corticotropin for the ACTHST in cats; however, maximum corticoadrenal stimulation seemed more reliable in response to a 125 µg/cat regarding cortisol and aldosterone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First report to determine the Hct of a VAMS sample using non-contact NIR spectroscopy. • Demonstration of the method's robustness towards different storage conditions and VAMS-related variables. • Evaluation of the suitability of the method's applicability to non-anticoagulated (finger prick) samples. • Fast and non-destructive method which may be used to cope with the well-known Hct effect. Volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) has gained great interest in the past decade because of its capability to collect a fixed volume of blood independent of the hematocrit (Hct). This alternative microsampling technique tackles the well-known Hct-related area bias, a major issue in conventional partial-punch dried blood spot (DBS) analysis. However, as microsampling typically involves the collection of blood, whereas the 'gold standard' matrix used in clinical practice is plasma or serum, a major concern remains: how do we interpret or convert these dried blood microsample-based results? A method to determine the Hct of a VAMS sample based on non-contact NIR spectroscopy was developed and extensively validated. Using authentic patient samples (n = 102) and a dynamic measurement procedure (turning the VAMS samples in between measurements), accurate (maximum bias of –0.022 L/L) and precise (maximum total imprecision of 10.6 %) Hct determinations were obtained. Sample storage (up till one month at room temperature or lower), operator and lot of VAMS devices did not impact the resulting Hct, confirming the method's robustness. This is the first non-contact method allowing Hct determination of VAMS samples. Importantly, there is no 'consumption' of part of the microsample, which would impact subsequent analysis of target compounds. As one of the issues hampering wide implementation of microsampling is related to interpretation of (dried) blood-based results and conversion into plasma results, a simple and easy way to determine the Hct of a microsample, as presented here, may help to overcome this hurdle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine piroplasmosis is caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi , which are hemoprotozoan parasites. Understanding the epidemiology and genotypes of T. equi and B. caballi is crucial for developing effective control strategies in endemic countries. However, the endemic status of these two parasite species remains uncertain in Kyrgyzstan due to lack of surveys. Our study, therefore, aimed to detect T. equi and B. caballi infections in Kyrgyzstan and identify their genotypes. Blood samples were collected from 226 horses across all seven provinces of Kyrgyzstan, namely Chuy, Issyk-Kul, Naryn, Talas, Jalal-Abad, Osh, and Batken. These blood samples were subjected to DNA extraction, followed by specific PCR assays targeting T. equi and B. caballi. We found that 56 (24.8%, confidence interval (CI): 19.6–30.8%) and 7 (3.1%, CI: 1.5–6.3%) of the tested horses were positive for T. equi and B. caballi infections, respectively. Theileria equi was detected in all surveyed provinces, whereas B. caballi was found in five provinces, except for Talas and Osh. Subsequent genotype-specific PCR assays showed that T. equi -positive horses harbored all five genotypes: A, B, C (also known as Theileria haneyi), D, and E. On the other hand, phylogenetic analysis of B. caballi rap-1 sequences detected the genotypes A and B1. The prevalence of T. equi and B. caballi suggests a potential risk of clinical equine piroplasmosis among horses in Kyrgyzstan, and the observed genotypic diversity underscores the challenges in managing the disease. Our findings emphasize the need for comprehensive control measures to effectively address equine piroplasmosis in Kyrgyzstan. [Display omitted] • We surveyed horses in Kyrgyzstan for Theileria equi and Babesia caballi using PCRs. • Both T. equi (24.8%) and B. caballi (3.1%) were detected in the surveyed horses. • Identified genotypes included T. equi A, B, C, D, and E and B. caballi A and B1. • Horses in Kyrgyzstan are at risk for equine piroplasmosis. • Genotypic diversity of T. equi and B. caballi may impact the disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the armed confrontations in 1991 and 2003, as well as during the ISIS war (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), the extensive use of depleted uranium in battles and weapons has likely significantly impacted human health, notably by increasing the risk of cancer. Depleted uranium is a heavy metal and radioactive material that can contaminate the environment and enter the human body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. In this study, uranium concentrations were measured in blood samples taken from the control group and the patient group from several different governorates of Iraq (Hilla, Basra, Baghdad, Tikrit, Kut, Samawah, Maysan, Nasiriyah and Mosul). The concentration was determined using a CR-39 track detector. The nuclear reaction uses a source of nuclear fission fragments, which is (n, f), which is obtained by bombarding uranium 235 with thermal neutrons from the source (Am–Be) and 3.024 × 10 9 n c m − 2 . The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS program and showed that the range of uranium concentrations in healthy individuals was 0.56–2.26 μ g / l. Patients had levels ranging from 1.47 to 4.57 μ g / l. The accepted value for ICRP is 0.810 μ g / l. This study shows that there is an increase in uranium levels in blood samples in individuals with leukemia compared to healthy individuals. This increase may be the result of armed confrontations and the use of depleted uranium. • CR-39 detectors measured uranium in Iraqi blood samples. • A notable elevation in uranium levels in leukemia patients compared to healthy individuals. • Study warns of DU health risks in conflicts, urges prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There is a relationship between allostatic load and major depressive disorder. • It is essential to identify biomarkers that predict antidepressant response. • Increased pre-treatment allostatic load can predict response to repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation. This cohort study investigated whether allostatic load (AL) is associated with treatment response to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Pre-treatment blood samples measured AL across multiple systems. Pre- and post-treatment mood changes were assessed using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Associations between AL and treatment outcomes were explored. Higher pre-treatment AL was significantly associated with poorer post-treatment response status but was not significantly associated with smaller reduction in MADRS score after 4 weeks of treatment. Identifying biomarker profiles informed by the AL model could enhance treatment decisions in TRD, reducing risks associated with prolonged, ineffective rTMS trials and emphasizing the need for reliable predictive biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world. HCC is often diagnosed late because patients with early-stage cancer have no apparent symptoms. Therefore, it is desirable to find a reliable method for an early diagnosis based on the detection of metabolites – biomarkers, that can be detected in the early stages of the disease. Untargeted metabolomics is often used as a tool to find a suitable biomarker for several diseases. In this work, untargeted metabolomics was performed on blood plasma samples of HCC patients and compared with healthy individuals and patients with liver cirrhosis. A combination of liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry was used as an analytical method. More than a thousand peaks were detected in the blood plasma samples, from which mainly amino acids, carboxylic acids, lipids, and their derivatives were evaluated as potential biomarkers. The data obtained were statistically processed using the analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and principal component analysis. • Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of death related to cancer. • The metabolism of cancer cells is different from that of healthy cells. • Metabolomics represents a promising tool for early diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited data exist on the factors affecting feline rabies vaccination outcomes during primary immunization. This study aimed to assess if specific factors (signalment, vaccination count, vaccine brand, and time since last vaccination) correlated with meeting global antibody titer standards and absolute titers in young cats given monovalent inactivated rabies vaccines. Analyzing a dataset from cats tested before their first annual booster using the FAVN test, logistic and linear regression models were applied. Among 379 cats, 94.2 % achieved titers meeting or exceeding the standard threshold (≥0.5 IU/ml). Time since last vaccination proved to be the primary predictor of vaccination success. Cats receiving two vaccinations tended toward higher titers. Age, sex, breed, and vaccine type showed no impact on outcomes. The present study indicates that vaccination failure in young cats is uncommon, and that the time interval from the latest vaccination is the single most important predictor of successful rabies vaccination. • Rabies vaccination failures are uncommon in young cats. • Time from last vaccination to blood sampling predicts rabies vaccine outcome. • Cats vaccinated twice tended to have higher antibody titers. • Prior vaccinations number did not affect odds of attaining titer threshold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead toxicosis remains a concern in raptors, especially following feeding on carcasses sourced from hunting. Rapid diagnosis of lead exposure and easy field monitoring is desirable. The LeadCareII analytical system, validated for rapid diagnoses of lead toxicity in humans, has been described as a useful evaluation system in various species. For this study we attempt to validate the LeadCareII system in the Cape Vulture (CV) (Gyps coprotheres). Blood samples from CV housed under captive conditions and low background lead exposure, were pooled and spiked with known concentrations of a lead standard (0–60 µg/dL). Samples were analyzed by the LeadCareII system and by ICP-MS. The final results showed that despite good linearity the LeadCareII system underestimated lead concentrations by up to 50 %. While the results can be corrected by the derived equation, this is not supported due to the large underestimations evident. The reason for the underestimation is presently unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As climate change alters the hydric regime of many habitats, understanding the hydric physiology of animals becomes increasingly important. Plasma osmolality is a popular metric to assess an organism's hydration, but samples often need to be stored before being analyzed, under varying conditions and for different lengths of time. Previous studies on plasma storage conditions, and how they impact sample integrity, are minimal and have focused more on clinical applications than field studies. We studied the stability of osmolality values from wild rattlesnake plasma samples stored in commonly used plastic snap-cap tubes under different time (0, 2, 3, 7, 29 days) and temperature (refrigerated at 2 °C and frozen at −18 °C) treatments. We hypothesized that frozen samples would remain more stable (e.g., retain osmolality values more similar to baseline values) than refrigerated samples because freezing the plasma would reduce evaporation. We found that osmolality of samples increased over time at both temperatures, becoming significantly higher than baseline after 7 days. Contrary to our prediction, osmolality increased more in frozen samples than in refrigerated samples. We discuss possible reasons for our results, along with their implications. To obtain the most accurate plasma osmolality values, we recommend refrigerating plasma samples for as short a time as possible, 3 days or fewer, before analyzing them on an osmometer. [Display omitted] • Field collected blood samples are stored under variable conditions before analysis. • Storage time, temperature altered plasma osmolality, thus interpretation of hydration. • Plasma stored in refrigerator or freezer has stable osmolality for up to three days. • After one week, plasma osmolality significantly increased, and more-so when frozen. • Plasma osmolality should be measured within three days of collection or refrigerated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the diagnostic and analytical performances of the Access anti-HBc Total assay on the DxI 9000 Access Immunoassay System (Beckman Coulter Inc.). The multicenter study involved both prospective and retrospective sample collection from non-selected blood donors, hospitalized patients, or presumed anti-HBc Total positive individuals. Fresh/previously-frozen samples were tested with the Access and comparator assays to determine concordance; discrepant samples were tested with a second CE-marked assay. Among the 5983 non-selected fresh blood donor samples deemed anti-HBc Total negative, clinical specificity of the Access assay was 99.58% (95%CI: 99.38–99.72%). Clinical specificity was 99.27% (97.37–99.80%) among 273 anti-HBc Total negative hospitalized patient samples. Clinical sensitivity on 450 anti-HBc Total positive samples was 99.78% (98.75–99.96%). Evaluation in seroconversion panels revealed an average 1.4-day earlier detection versus a comparator assay. The Access assay demonstrated excellent clinical and analytical performances comparable to existing CE-marked anti-HBc Total assays. NCT04904835. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cohort of 250 CMR scans was divided into a derivation and validation cohort. A formula for calculating synthetic hematocrit (Hct syn) and synthetic extracellular volume (ECV syn) was derived and showed good results when validated against conventional Hct from blood sampling. Bias of ECV syn was comparable to bias from repeated Hct measurements. Use of published formulas for calculating ECV syn can lead to significant errors. Right panels: mean delta ± 1.96 * SD. [Display omitted] Calculation of extracellular volume fraction (ECV), a marker of myocardial fibrosis in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), requires hematocrit (Hct). We aimed to correlate Hct levels with native blood T1 times, to derive a formula for estimating synthetic Hct (Hct syn) and synthetic ECV (ECV syn), to assess accuracy of ECV syn and to compare our model with published formulas. In this retrospective study, a cohort of 250 CMR scans with T1 mapping (3T, MOLLI 5(3)3, endsystolic aquisition), was divided into a derivation and validation cohort. Native T1 times of the left ventricular blood pool (T1 native,midLV) were correlated with Hct levels from blood sampling within 24 h (Hct 24h) and a formula for calculation of Hct syn was derived by linear regression. In the derivation cohort (n = 167), Hct 24h showed a good association with T1 native,midLV (r = −0.711, p < 0.001). The resulting regression equation was Hctsyn = 1/T1 native,midLV * 1355.52–0.310. In the validation cohort (n = 83), Hct syn and Hct 24h showed good correlation (r = 0.726, p < 0.001), while ECV syn , and ECV 24h demonstrated excellent correlation (r = 0.940, p < 0.001). ECV syn had a minimal bias of 0.28 % and the misclassification rate (8.8 %) was comparable to the variability introduced by repeated Hct measurements (misclassification in 7.5 %). Applying published formulas in our cohort resulted in incorrect classification in up to 60 %. We provide a formula for estimating Hct syn from native blood T1 on a 3T scanner. The measurement error of ECV syn is low and comparable to the error due to retest variability of conventional Hct. Scanner- and sequence-specific formulas should be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously undertook a prospective clinical study to evaluate PCR.Ai's (www.pcr.ai) accuracy and impact when automating the manual data-analysis and quality control steps associated with routine clinical pathogen testing using a non-quantitative multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). In this study we demonstrated 100 % concurrence between our manual routine analysis method and PCR.Ai. This paper expands the evaluation of PCR.Ai's (www.pcr.ai) accuracy and impact using a multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). We evaluated the impact of PCR.Ai when used as the final interpretation/verification step for routine in-house multiplex quantitative qPCR tests for CMV, EBV and adenovirus from blood samples for a total of 1350 interpretations. We compared PCR.Ai to our existing manual interpretation, to determine accuracy and hands on time savings. There was 100 % concurrence between validated CMV, EBV and adenovirus detection and quantitation by our manual routine analysis method and PCR.Ai. Furthermore, there were significant routine savings with PCR.Ai of 63 minutes/ run. Our conclusion is that for quantitative tests PCR.Ai is a highly accurate time-saving tool that reduces complexity of qPCR analysis and hence the need for specialists and hands-on time. It demonstrated capabilities to enable us to get results out more quickly with lower costs and less risk of errors. • Evaluates PCR.Ai's accuracy using a multiplex adeno/CMV/EBV quantitative qPCR. • 100 % concurrence between manual adeno/CMV/EBV detection/ quantitation and PCR.Ai. • Significant routine savings with PCR.Ai of 63 minutes/ run. • For quantitative tests PCR.Ai is a highly accurate time and labour saving tool. • Enables reporting of results quickler with lower costs and less risk of errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 60% pregnancy success for inseminations is targeted to optimize production efficiency for dairy cows within a seasonal, pasture-grazed system. Routine measures of pregnancy success are widely available but are limited, in practice, to a gestation stage beyond the first 28 d. Although some historical data exist on embryonic mortality before this stage, productivity of dairy systems and genetics of the cows have advanced significantly in recent decades. Accordingly, the aim was to construct an updated estimate of pregnancy success at key developmental stages during the first 70 d after insemination. Blood samples were collected for progesterone concentrations on d 0 and 7. A temporal series of 4 groups spanning fertilization through d 70 were conducted on 4 seasonal, pasture-grazed dairy farms (n = 1,467 cows) during the first 21 d of the seasonal breeding period. Morphological examination was undertaken on embryos collected on d 7 (group E7) and 15 (group E15), and pregnancy was diagnosed via ultrasonography on approximately d 28 and 35 (group E35) as well as d 70 (group E70). Fertilization, embryo, and fetal evaluation for viability established a pregnancy success pattern. Additionally, cow and on-farm risk factor variables associated with pregnancy success were evaluated. We estimated pregnancy success rates of 70.9%, 59.1%, 63.8%, 62.3%, and 56.7% at d 7, 15, 28, 35, and 70, respectively. Fertilization failure (15.8%) and embryonic arrest before the morula stage (10.3%) were the major developmental events contributing to first-week pregnancy failures. Embryo elongation failure of 7% contributed to pregnancy failure during the second week. The risk factors for pregnancy success that were related to the cows included interval between calving and insemination, and d-7 plasma progesterone concentrations, whereas insemination sire was associated with pregnancy outcome. Most pregnancy failure occurs during the first week among seasonal-calving pasture-grazed dairy cows. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adenosinergic system may play a role in the pathogenesis of vasovagal syncope. • Patients with tilt-induced VVS have higher serum adenosine than negative controls. • Adenosine is probably implicated predominantly in vasodepressoric type of VVS. • Patients with tilt-induced VVS have lower activity of adenosinedeaminase than controls. Adenosine is mediator regulating physiological and pathological processes in organism. It probably plays a role in pathogenesis of vasovagal syncopes (VVS), too. Adenosine, its receptors and degradation enzymes– adenosinedeaminase (ADA) and adenosinekinase (ADK), are called the adenosinergic system. We aimed to evaluate serum levels of adenosine, ADA and ADK in patients with tilt-induced VVS and compare them to tlit-negative controls. Secondary aim was to compare the levels between the types of VVS and correlate them with hemodynamic parameters. Altogether 132 individuals were involved in this study (age 39,88±15,64 years, 51 males). All patients underwent head up tilt test (HUTT) in differential diagnosis of syncope. Blood sampling was performed before and after HUTT. Baseline and stimulated serum levels of adenosine, ADA and ADK were evaluated by ELISA method. HUTT was positive in 91 patients (HUTT+), 41 individuals were negative (HUTT-). HUTT+ patients had higher baseline and stimulated adenosine levels, when compared to HUTT- population. The rise in adenosine was higher in HUTT+ group. On the other hand, the increase of ADA was significantly higher in HUTT- subjects. Among HUTT+ group, the highest adenosine was found during vasodepressoric VVS. Adenosinergic system may play role in pathogenesis of VVS. Patients with VVS have higher adenosine levels, that may be caused by attenuated degradation. Adenosine seems to be involved predominantly in vasodepressoric type of VVS. Further research evaluating complex function of adenosinergic system in these patients is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]