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Hui Gao,1 Xi Cheng,1 Xu Zuo,2 Zhaolan Huang2 1Department of General Practice, Tianyou Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430000, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Respiratory and Digestive, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated with Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430000, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhaolan Huang, Department of Respiratory and Digestive, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated with Wuhan University of Science and Technology, No. 2, Huangjiahu West Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-19819051958, Email 45477428@qq.comBackground: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) progression in the elderly is notably influenced by nutritional, immune, and inflammatory status. This study aimed to investigate the impact of adequate energy supply on these indicators in COPD patients.Methods: COPD patients meeting specific criteria were recruited and categorized into energy-adequate and energy-deficient groups based on their energy supply. Comparable demographic factors such as age, gender, smoking and drinking history, COPD duration, inhaled drug classification, and home oxygen therapy application were observed. Notable differences were found in BMI and inhaled drug use between the two groups.Results: The energy-adequate group exhibited significant improvements in various health indicators, including lymphocyte count, hemoglobin, CRP, total cholesterol, prealbumin, albumin, PNI, SII, SIRI, CAR, and CONUT scores in the secondary auxiliary examination. These positive changes suggest a notable enhancement in nutritional, immune, and inflammatory status.Conclusion: This research highlights the substantial benefits of adequate energy supply in elderly COPD patients. The observed improvements in nutritional, immune, and inflammatory markers underscore the importance of addressing energy needs to positively influence disease-related outcomes in this population. These findings have implications for developing targeted interventions to optimize the well-being of elderly individuals with COPD.Keywords: elderly, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, energy supply, nutritional status, immune function, inflammatory response

Abstract Background Laparoscopic partial hepatectomy inevitably decrease patient immune function. Propofol has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects but is associated with hemodynamic side effects. Despite studies showing a negligible impact of remimazolam tosylate on hemodynamics, it has not been reported for partial hepatectomy patients. Its influence on immune function also remains unexplored. This study sought to investigate the differences in immune function and intraoperative hemodynamics between patients who underwent laparoscopic partial hepatectomy with remimazolam tosylate and those who underwent laparoscopic partial hepatectomy with propofol. Methods This was a single-center, randomized controlled trial involving 70 patients, who underwent elective laparoscopic partial hepatectomy. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: the remimazolam group (group R) and the propofol group (group P). In this study, the primary outcomes assessed included the patient’s immune function and hemodynamic parameters, and the secondary outcomes encompassed the patient’s liver function and adverse events. Results Data from 64 patients (group R, n = 31; group P, n = 33) were analyzed. The differences in the percentages of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and NK cells and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio between the two groups were not statistically significant at 1 day or 3 days after surgery. Compared with those in group P, the MAP and HR at T2 and the MAP at T1 in group R were significantly increased(P 0.05). Conclusion The effects of remimazolam tosylate on the immune function of patients after partial hepatectomy are comparable to those of propofol. Additionally, its minimal effect on hemodynamics significantly decreases the incidence of hypotension during anesthesia induction, thereby enhancing overall perioperative safety. Trial registration The trial was registered on May 9, 2022 in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR2200059715 (09/05/2022).

【Objective】The experiment was carried out to study the effects of potassium magnesium sulfate (PMS) on sow performance, plasma biochemical indicators, antioxidant capacity and immune function in late pregnancy.【Method】By using simple factor design of the experiment, sixty sows (Landrace×Yorkshire) with 3-4 parity, good health and similar expected delivery in the third trimester of pregnancy (85th day of pregnancy) were randomly divided into 4 groups (15 replicates in each group and 1 sow in each replicate). The experimental groups during gestation were supplemented with PMS 0 (CK), 5, 10 and 15 g/d for each sow, respectively. After delivery, all sows during lactation were fed the same commercial lactation feed. The experiment ended on the 18th day of lactation.【Result】(1) Supplemental PMS had no significant effects on litter size, healthy litter size, back fat thickness, labor, body weight, feed intake in sows during lactation, and newborn weight of piglets, number of weaned piglets and number of deaths of lactating piglets. Compared with the control group, the fecal score of sows during late pregnancy after PMS supplementation showed a linear increase (Plinear < 0.05) and 10 g/d group had significant effects (PANOVA < 0.05); After supplementation with PMS, it showed a linear increase (Plinear < 0.05) in newborn litter weight, litter weight of weaned piglets, average litter gain of lactating piglets and daily gain of lactating piglets (PANOVA < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the newborn litter weight, litter weight of weaned piglets, average litter gain of lactating piglets and daily gain of lactating piglets in the 10 g/d group were increased by 16.27%, 24.42%, 35.14% and 31.64%. Except for newborn litter weight, all other indicators showed quadratic effect (PQuadratic < 0.05) and significant differences were found between groups (PANOVA < 0.05); (2) It showed a linear increase in the contents of triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHO), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and insulin (INS) in plasma of sows supplemented with PMS (Plinear < 0.05). The contents of TG, CHO, LDL and INS in the 10 g/d group increased by 50.00%, 28.35%, 25.00% and 31.98% compared with the control group; TG and LDL had a quadratic effect (PQuadratic < 0.05). (3) Linear changes were found in contents of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin M (IgM) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (Plinear < 0.05) in the plasma of sows after supplementation with PMS, and they were increased by 17.10%, 20.34%, 8.00% and 15.04% in the 10 g/d group, compared with the control group. (4) It showed a linear increase (PANOVA < 0.05) in fat content of colostrum of sow with PMS supplementation (Plinear < 0.05), with significant increase. Non-fat milk solids, lactose and protein were linearly increased (Plinear < 0.05) and had an increasing trend (0.05 < PANOVA < 0.1). The fat content of colostrum supplemented with 10 g/d were increased by 51.42% compared with the control group.【Conclusion】PMS supplementation in late preganancy can significantly improve the fecal scores of sows, relieve sow constipation, and improve sow performance and body health, with 10 g/d supplementation as the optimal dose.

When piglets are exposed to pathogens for a long period, the immune system organs, among them the spleen, play a major role in combating the stress caused by those pathogens. In the present study, the effect on splenocyte function was investigated in a model of weaned piglets in which stress was induced by multiple low doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Abstract Introduction Metronomic capecitabine used as an adjuvant therapy improves survival in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC). This therapeutic approach may also contribute to improving immune function, consequently enhancing overall therapeutic efficacy. Aim We aimed to evaluate the effect of metronomic capecitabine as adjuvant therapy on immune function and survival in cases of LA-NPC. Subjects and methods 28 patients with LA-NPC were enrolled in the study and equally assigned to two groups of 14 each: experimental and control group. The experimental group received induction chemotherapy + concurrent chemotherapy + adjuvant chemotherapy as well as oral capecitabine at a dose of 650 mg/m² of body surface area twice daily for 1 year, with the option to discontinue in case of intolerance. The control group did not receive additional chemotherapy or targeted drugs after the induction chemotherapy + concurrent chemoradiotherapy; however, they were followed up regularly. Changes in immune function and survival were compared between the two groups. Results The median follow-up time was 43.5 months. One year after adjuvant chemotherapy, the experimental group showed higher levels of CD8 + cells, CD28 + CD8 + cells, and activated CD8 + cells compared to the control group (P 0 0.05 ). Conclusion Metronomic capecitabine chemotherapy was observed to induce an immunomodulatory effect in LA-NPC. Trial registration NCT02958111, date of registration 04-11-2016.

Abstract Background Low immune function after laparoscopic total gastrectomy puts patients at risk of infection-related complications. Low-dose naloxone (LDN) can improve the prognosis of patients suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases or autoimmune diseases. The use of LDN during perioperative procedures may reduce perioperative complications. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of LDN on endogenous immune function in gastric cancer patients and its specific mechanisms through a randomized controlled trial. Methods Fifty-five patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy were randomly assigned to either a naloxone group (n = 23) or a nonnaloxone group (n = 22). Patients in the naloxone group received 0.05 µg/kg-1.h− 1naloxone from 3 days before surgery to 5 days after surgery via a patient-controlled intravenous injection (PCIA) pump, and patients in the nonnaloxone group did not receive special treatment. The primary outcomes were the rates of postoperative complications and immune function assessed by NK cell, CD3+ T cell, CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, WBC count, neutrophil percentage, and IL-6 and calcitonin levels. The secondary outcomes were the expression levels of TLR4 (Toll-like receptor), IL-6 and TNF-α in gastric cancer tissue. Results Compared with the nonnaloxone group, the naloxone group exhibited a lower incidence of infection (in the incision, abdomen, and lungs) (P

Background: The research aims to explore the characteristics of intestinal flora, nutritional status and immune function in patients with different types of obese colon cancer. Methods: A retrospective analysis is conducted on 64 cases of obese colon cancer diagnosed from June 2018 to January 2020. According to the histological staging of the cancer, they are classified into adenocarcinoma, adenosquamous carcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma, with corresponding cases of 24, 22 and 18, respectively. The intestinal flora (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and yeast), nutritional status (Hb, Alb, PA, TFN, and PNI), immune function (IgG, IgM, IgA, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+) are analyzed in the different groups of patients. Survival curves are evaluated by Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test for tumour death, local recurrence, and distant metastasis. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in intestinal flora (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and yeast), nutritional status (Hb, Alb, PA, TFN, and PNI) and immune function (IgG, IgM, IgA, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+) between different groups. There was a significant correlation between intestinal flora, nutritional status and immune function for all three. The survival curves of tumour death, local recurrence and distant metastasis in different groups of obese colon cancer patients were statistically significant. The tumor mortality rate, local recurrence, and distant metastasis rate in adenocarcinoma were 78.65%, 54.25% and 48.26% respectively. Conclusion: There are differences in intestinal flora, nutritional status and immune function among different types of obese colon cancer patients, but adenocarcinoma has the least benefit in intestinal flora, poor nutritional status, and weakest immune function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To comprehensively evaluate the association and impact of nutritional status and immune function on the severity of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 952 participants who were diagnosed with active PTB. Severe PTB involves three or more lung field infections based on chest radiography. Nutritional status was evaluated using various indicators, including body mass index (BMI), the nutritional risk screening score (NRS-2002), total protein (TP), prealbumin (PA), transferrin (TRF), and serum albumin (ALB) levels and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI). Immune dysfunction was defined as a CD4+ count <500 cells/µl or a CD4+/CD8+ ratio <1. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were also calculated. Multivariate logistic and generalized linear regression were used to assess the associations between nutritional status, immune function, the severity of PTB, and the number of infected lung fields, adjusting for age, sex, and diabetes. Mediation analysis was conducted to evaluate the extent to which immune function mediated the impact of nutritional status on the severity of PTB. Sensitivity analysis was performed to enhance the robustness of the results. Results: Compared to those in the general PTB group, patients in the severe PTB group tended to be older men with diabetes. Higher nutritional risk, higher proportion of immune dysfunction and lower lymphocyte counts were observed in the severe group. BMI and the PNI were found to be protective factors, while PLR was identified as a risk factor for disease severity. Immune dysfunction and the PLR are mediators of the relationship between nutritional status and PTB severity. When BMI, the PNI, and the PLR were combined with traditional clinical indicators, these parameters showed promising diagnostic value, and the AUC reached 0.701 (95% CI: 0.668-0.734). Conclusion: The findings suggest that nutritional status is significantly associated with the severity of PTB, and immune function mediates the effects of nutritional status on the severity of PTB. Maintaining adequate BMI, PNI levels, and immune function or reducing PLR levels helps reduce the risk of severe PTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as important regulators of the inflammatory response, are involved in the immune-inflammation-brain crosstalk mechanism after ischemic stroke and have the potential to become a therapeutic agent for neurological dysfunction after ischemic stroke. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and summarize the molecular mechanism of lncRNA acting on glial cells involved in the neuroimmuno-inflammatory cascade response after ischemic stroke and the associated signaling pathways, pointing out that lncRNAs have the potential to regulate inflammation after ischemic stroke. METHODS: PubMed was searched using the search terms of “ischemic stroke, long non-coding RNA, neuroinflammation, immune function, signal pathway, microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocyte, mechanism,” and 63 relevant documents were finally included for review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: In the early stage of ischemic stroke, the death of nerve cells due to ischemia and hypoxia activates the innate immune response of the brain, promoting the secretion of inflammatory factors and inducing blood-brain barrier damage and a series of inflammatory cascades responses. As an important pathogenesis factor in ischemic stroke, the neuroimmuno-inflammatory cascade has been proved to seriously affect the prognosis of patients with ischemic stroke, and it needs to be suppressed promptly in the early stage. Neuroinflammation after ischemic stroke usually induces abnormal expression of a large number of lncRNAs that mediate a series of neuro-immune-inflammatory crosstalk mechanisms through regulating the polarization of microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes to exert post-stroke neuroprotective effects. LncRNAs, as important regulatory factors of the inflammatory response, inhibit the neuroimmuno-inflammatory cascade response after ischemic stroke through regulating nuclear factor-κB, lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis, Rho-ROCK, MAPK, AKT, ERK and other signaling pathways to effectively improve neurological impairment after ischemic stroke. Most of experimental studies on the interaction between lncRNAs and ischemic stroke are based on a middle cerebral artery occlusion model or a cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury model, but no clinical trials have been conducted. Therefore, it remains to be further explored about whether lncRNAs can be safely applied in clinical practice. At present, there are many therapeutic drugs for the treatment of ischemic stroke, but there are relatively few studies on the application of lncRNAs, exosomes and other transplantation technologies for the treatment of ischemic stroke using tissue engineering technology, which need to be further explored. lncRNA has become an important target for the treatment of ischemic stroke with its relative stability and high specificity. In future studies, more types of inflammatory lncRNAs that function under ischemic-hypoxia conditions should continue to be explored, in order to provide new research directions for the treatment of neuroinflammation after ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to study the effects of probiotic-fermented Chinese herbal medicine on the growth performance, serum immune indexes, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal function of weaned piglets. A total of 54 healthy weaned piglets, aged 35 days and weighing (8.76±0.54) kg, were selected, half in male and female, randomly divided into three treatment groups, with three replicates in each group and six piglets in each replicate. The control group was fed a basal diet, while the experimental group A and group B were supplemented with 0.5% and 1.0% of probiotic-fermented Chinese herbal medicine in the basal diet, respectively. The trial period was 28 days. The results showed that compared to the Chinese herbal medicine before fermentation, the total flavonoids, total alkaloids, total saponins, and crude polysaccharides in the probiotic-fermented Chinese herbal medicine significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, the average daily weight gain significantly increased (P<0.05), and the feed conversion ratio and diarrhea rate significantly decreased in group A and group B (P<0.05). The levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), complement C3, and complement C4 in the serum were significantly higher in group A and group B than in the control group (P<0.05). The total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and the activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) in the serum of piglets in group A and group B were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum was significantly reduced (P<0.05). The levels of Lactobacillus and yeast in the small intestine of group A and group B significantly increased (P<0.05), while E. coli and Salmonella significantly decreased (P<0.05). The villus height and villus-to-crypt ratio (V/C) in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of group A and group B significantly increased (P<0.05), and the crypt depth in the jejunum significantly decreased (P<0.05). The study indicates that the addition of probiotic-fermented Chinese herbal medicine to the diet improves the growth performance, immune function, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal function of weaned piglets, and the effect of 0.5% probiotic-fermented Chinese herbal medicine is better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimal access breast surgery (MABS) is commonly employed in the management of breast cancer, but there is limited research on the postoperative immune function associated with MABS. Objective: This study aimed to assess the postoperative immune function in breast patients who underwent MABS or conventional open breast surgery (COBS). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 829 breast cancer patients treated with either MABS or COBS at a single hospital between January 2020 and June 2023. Among them, 116 matched pairs were obtained through 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). Flow cytometry was used to measure the percentages of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells, as well as the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, on three different time points: preoperative day 1 (PreD1), postoperative day 1 (PostD1), and postoperative day 7 (PostD7). Results: Both the MABS and COBS groups demonstrated a significant reduction in the percentages of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells, along with the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, from PreD1 to PostD1. Interestingly, the MABS group showed a reversal of these parameters, returning to preoperative levels by PostD7. Conversely, the COBS group showed an increase in these parameters from PostD1 to PostD7, but they still remained significantly lower than preoperative levels at PostD7. Conclusion: MABS treatment may result in reduced postoperative immune suppression and faster recovery of preoperative immune function compared to COBS in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Children who are HIV-exposed and uninfected (HEU) are at risk for early neurodevelopmental impairment. Smaller basal ganglia nuclei have been reported in neonates who are HEU compared to HIV-unexposed (HU); however, neuroimaging studies outside infancy are scarce. We examined subcortical brain structures and associations with neurocognition in children who are HEU. Methods This neuroimaging study was nested within the Drakenstein Child Health Study birth cohort in South Africa. We compared (T1-weighted) magnetic resonance imaging–derived subcortical brain volumes between children who were HEU (n = 70) and HU (n = 92) at age 2–3 years using linear regression. Brain volumes were correlated with neurodevelopmental outcomes measured with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development III. Results Compared to HU children, on average children who were HEU had 3% lower subcortical grey matter volumes. Analyses of individual structures found smaller volume of the putamen nucleus in the basal ganglia (−5% difference, P =.016) and the hippocampus (−3% difference, P =.044), which held on adjustment for potential confounders (P <.05). Maternal viremia and lower CD4 count in pregnancy were associated with smaller child putamen volumes. Children who were HEU had lower language scores than HU; putamen and hippocampus volumes were positively correlated with language outcomes. Conclusions Overall, children who are HEU had a pattern of smaller subcortical volumes in the basal ganglia and hippocampal regions compared to HU children, which correlated with language function. Findings suggest that optimizing maternal perinatal HIV care is important for child brain development. Further studies are needed to investigate underlying mechanisms and long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) patients display elevated levels of circulating pro‐inflammatory cytokines and endothelial activation markers compared to healthy peers. The impact of exercise on the pro‐inflammatory state in SCA remains unclear. This study aimed to characterize the whole‐blood transcriptome profile in response to an acute bout of exercise in paediatric SCA patients. Twenty‐three SCA participants (13 ± 3 years, 52% girls) and 17 healthy controls (14 ± 3 years, 29% girls) performed eight 2‐min bouts of cycle ergometry interspersed with 1‐min rest intervals. Whole‐blood transcriptome profile (RNA‐seq) was performed before and after exercise. At baseline, gene pathways associated with gas transport in erythrocytes were up‐regulated in SCA patients compared to controls. Following exercise, gene pathways associated with innate immunity were altered in both groups. Interaction analyses revealed 160 annotated genes (101 up‐ and 59 down‐regulated) that differentially altered by exercise in SCA patients. Moreover, genes that exhibited a blunted response to exercise in SCA patients were enriched in the IL‐17 signalling pathway, suggesting an impaired innate immune response to exercise. This data will contribute to the development of evidence‐based exercise prescription guidelines for this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effects of comprehensive nursing intervention on quality of life, self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction and immune function of patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: This was a retrospective study. One hundred and twenty patients receiving chemotherapy after breast cancer surgery were randomly divided into the experimental group and the control group(n=60) from January 2021 to January 2023. Patients in the perioperative period, the experimental group were given comprehensive nursing intervention, while those in the control group were given conventional specialist nursing intervention. The differences in quality of life, self-efficacy, gastrointestinal reaction, immune function and patient satisfaction between the two groups were compared and analyzed. Results: After the intervention, the SF-36 scores in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P=0.00), the efficacy indicators were significantly improved compared to the control group(P=0.00); the scores of gastrointestinal symptoms in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group after the intervention(P<0.05). The indexes of CD3+, CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ in the experimental group after the intervention were significantly higher than those in the control group(P=0.00); The patient satisfaction in the experimental group was 100%, which was significantly higher than 92% in the control group, with statistically significant differences(P=0.02). Conclusion: Comprehensive nursing intervention leads to a variety of benefits in the treatment of patients with breast cancer during postoperative chemotherapy, such as relieving patients' gastrointestinal reactions, improving their immune function and quality of life, besides effectively improving their self-efficacy, which is worthy of clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to explore the effects of adding different proportions of Zingiber mioga flavonoids to feed on the growth performance, immune function, plasma biochemical indices and antioxidant function of chicks. Ninety seven-day-old chicks with similar physical conditions were randomly divided into three groups, with 10 replicates per group and three chicks per replicate. The control group was fed a basic diet, while Group Ⅰ and Group Ⅱ were supplemented with 100, 200 mg/kg of Zingiber mioga flavonoids in the basic diet, respectively. The experiment lasted for 35 days. The results showed that from the 1st to the14th day of the experiment, the average daily weight gain of chicks in Group Ⅰ was extremely higher than that of the control group and Group Ⅱ (P<0.01), and the feed to gain ratio was extremely lower than that of the control group and Group Ⅱ (P<0.01). On the 35th day of the experiment, the activity of plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in Group Ⅰ and Group Ⅱ was extremely lower than that of the control group (P<0.01), and the antibody titers against H9 subtype avian influenza virus and Newcastle disease virus (NDV) in the blood were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The activity of plasma catalase (CAT) was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). The plasma total protein (TP) content in Group Ⅱ was significantly higher than that in the control group and Group Ⅰ (P<0.05). On the 35th day, the thymus index and bursa of fabricius index in Group Ⅰ and Group Ⅱ were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The study indicates that the addition of an appropriate amount of Zingiber mioga flavonoids to the feed of chicks can improve growth performance, immune function, partial plasma biochemical indices and antioxidant function, with a recommended addition of 100 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article highlights the advances in mast cell research in 2023. It discusses the growing understanding of mast cell heterogeneity and interactions through single cell RNA sequencing studies. The article also explores the role of mast cells in the central nervous system and their involvement in host defense against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The research reveals the complexity and impact of mast cells in various tissues and emphasizes their diverse functions in immune defense, inflammation, and allergic disease. Additionally, the article discusses the role of mast cells in antigen-avoidance behaviors, commensal bacteria tolerance, and the regulation of cilia in the brain. The findings suggest potential therapeutic avenues for conditions such as tumor-associated hydrocephalus and COVID-19. Overall, the research underscores the critical importance of mast cells in immune-mediated damage prevention and their collaboration with other host defense mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

Simple Summary: As a resveratrol analog, pterostilbene (PTE) exhibits functions including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The main objective of this work was to elucidate whether pterostilbene could enhance the immune function and the morphological integrity of the intestine by suppressing inflammatory factors and certain oxidative stresses, thus enhancing the immune capacity of the organism. This study will help to provide greater insight into the molecular mechanism of dietary PTE involved in improving the intestinal health and immune function of broilers. This experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of pterostilbene (PTE) supplementation in feed on Arbor Acres broilers in terms of serum biochemical parameters, immune and inflammatory responses, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphological structure. For a duration of 42 days, a total of 480 1-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly divided into four groups. Each group was assigned to receive either the basal diet or the basal diet supplemented with 200, 400, or 600 mg/kg of PTE. Each treatment consisted of eight replicates, with 15 chicks per replicate. In comparison with the control group, three PTE treatments significantly increased the lymphocyte transformation rate in the spleen of broilers. The automated biochemical analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and RT-qPCR analysis kits found that 400 mg/kg of PTE significantly increased the serum levels of complement C3, IL-4, and iNOS; reduced the serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and mRNA levels of the genes IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, NLRP3, and IFN-γ; significantly improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes including CAT, GSH-Px, and T-SOD in the jejunum; and significantly reduced the MDA contents in the serum and jejunum of broilers. Nikon microscope observations and ImagePro Plus 6.0 measure results found that 400 mg/kg of PTE supplementation significantly reduced the relative length and weight of the jejunum and improved the jejunal villi structure, resulting in increased intestinal villi, deepened crypt, and an enhanced ratio of villi height to crypt depth (VH/CD). RT-qPCR and Western blot found that dietary PTE also resulted in increased mRNA levels of the genes Claudin-2, Occludin, ZO-1, and Sirt1, and decreased NF-κB protein levels in the jejunum. The results of this study demonstrated that dietary PTE improved the immune function and intestinal health of broilers by reducing inflammation and increasing the antioxidant capacity of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this experiment, brewer's yeast was used to replace part of the fish meal in the feed to formulate a high-fat and low-protein feed for Taiwan loach. The effects of brewer's yeast on the growth performance, muscle quality, hepatopancreas and pancreas carnitine content, intestinal flora, immunity, and antioxidant ability of Taiwan loach were preliminarily investigated. In experiment 1, 600 Taiwan loaches were randomly divided into 4 groups, and 1% (group A), 4% (group B), 8% (group C), and 12% (group D) of brewer's yeast was substituted for an equal amount of fishmeal in the basal diets. The loaches in each group were fed for 60 d. In experiment 2, 60 Taiwan loaches were selected and randomly divided into a control group (Group E) and a test group (Group F). The loaches were fed the basal diet and the high-fat and low-protein diet supplemented with 8% fishmeal, replaced by brewer's yeast. The experiment lasted for 60 days, and the growth performance, hepatopancreas carnitine content, muscle quality, intestinal flora, plasma antioxidant, and immune capacity indices of loaches in each group were determined. The results were as follows: the weight gain rate and specific growth rate were significantly higher in group C than those in groups A, B, and D (P < 0.05); the intestinal length ratio, muscle hardness, hepatopancreatic carnitine content, plasma superoxide dismutase activity, catalase activity, total antioxidant capacity, and lysozyme activity were significantly greater in group F than those in group E (P < 0.05); the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium counts in Group F were considerably higher than those in Group E (P < 0.05), and the Salmonella counts in Group F was significantly lower than that in Group E (P < 0.05); the survival rate, weight gain rate, bait coefficient, muscle crude protein, crude fat, viscosity, elasticity, cohesion, chewability, and restorative capacity were not significantly different between Group F and Group E (P > 0.05). The above results showed that adding 8% brewer's yeast to feed Taiwan loach instead of fish meal could enhance its hepatopancreatic carnitine synthesis, optimize the intestinal flora, improve the body's immune and antioxidant ability, and have a certain promotional effect on the intestinal development and muscle quality improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To observe the effect of carrelizumab combined with albumin-bound paclitaxel on immune function, tumor markers and angiogenesis indexes in patients with advanced cervical cancer. Methods: According to the random number table method, 93 patients with advanced cervical cancer admitted to the Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University from June 2019 to June 2023 were divided into control group (n=46, albumin-bound paclitaxel treatment) and observation group (n=47, carrelizumab combine with albumin-bound paclitaxel treatment). The efficacy, tumor markers, immune function indexes, angiogenesis indexes and adverse reactions in two groups were compared. Results: The objective response rate (ORR) of the observation group was 44.68%, and the disease control rate (DCR) was 74.47%, which were higher than the control group's 21.74% and 50.00%, respectively(P<0.05). After treatment, the levels of squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen (CA) 125, CA199, angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD8+ in observation group were lower than those in control group, and the levels of CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). The total incidence of adverse reactions in control group was 34.78%, and that in observation group was 29.79%, there was no difference between two groups(P>0.05). Conclusion: Carrelizumab combined with albumin-bound paclitaxel can reduce the level of tumor markers in patients with advanced cervical cancer, improve immune function, inhibit tumor angiogenesis, and effectively prevent disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and propofol on hemodynamics, stress response and immune function in children undergoing liver mass resection. Methods: The random number table method was used, 90 children who underwent elective liver mass resection in our hospital from May 2021 to April 2023 were divided into dexmedetomidine group (dexmedetomidine anesthesia) and propofol group (propofol anesthesia), 45 cases in each group. The changes of hemodynamics [heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP)], stress response [cortisol (Cor), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)] and T lymphocyte subsets [CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+] were compared between two groups, and the incidence of adverse reactions during anesthesia was observed. Results: MAP in dexmedetomidine group was lower than that in propofol group at 10 min after anesthesia induction (T1) to the end of operation (T4), and HR was higher than that in propofol group(P<0.05). Cor and ACTH in dexmedetomidine group were lower than those in propofol group at T4 and 1 day after operation (T5) (P<0.05). CD8+ in dexmedetomidine group was lower than that in propofol group at T4 and T5, while CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ were higher than those in propofol group (P<0.05). There was no difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between two groups(P>0.05). Conclusion: Compare with propofol anesthesia, dexmedetomidine can better stabilize hemodynamics, reduce stress response, and reduce immunosuppression in children undergoing liver mass resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In response to China’s ban on medicinal feed additives with growth-promoting functions in livestock and poultry feed, there is an urgent need in modern animal husbandry for alternatives to antibiotics to sustain livestock health and improve feed conversion efficiency. Allicin, known for its safety, efficiency, lack of drug resistance and absence of residue, regulates the intestinal flora structure; inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria; improves intestinal health, immunity and stress resistance; and improves animal production. Methods: To investigate the impact of allicin on immune performance and immune-related gene expression in Muchuan black-bone chickens, diets were supplemented with varying allicin levels (50, 100, 200 mg/kg), designated as test groups A, B and C, respectively. Initially, growth performance was assessed. Subsequently, immunoglobulins were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and colorimetry; immune titers for avian influenza and Newcastle disease were evaluated using hemagglutination and hemagglutination inhibition tests and the expression of immune genes was analyzed via real-time quantitative PCR. Finally, serum biochemical indices in each group were determined. Result: Compared to the control group, allicin supplementation resulted in increased average fasting body weight in the experimental group and significantly (P<0.05) higher thymus and musogastric indices in groups A and C, respectively. Serum levels of immunoglobulin M in groups A and B and immunoglobulin G levels were significantly higher in all experimental groups than in controls. Antibody titers against avian influenza H5 and H7 strains were higher in all test groups, with Newcastle disease antibody titers in groups B and C significantly higher than those in controls. The mRNA expression levels of IFN-γ were lower across all experimental groups, whereas the expression levels of TLR3 in groups B and C and TLR15 in group B were higher. Serum levels of triglycerides in group A were significantly higher and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower in groups B and C than in controls. These findings indicate that dietary allicin (50-200 mg/kg) significantly improves growth performance, immunity and protein and lipid metabolism in Muchuan black-bone chickens, offering valuable data for the development and use of allicin as an antibiotic alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of different ratios of Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) used in the diets on the growth performance, muscle quality, serum indexes, and mTOR pathway of white feather broilers. Four hundred and eighty 1-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) broilers, comprising equal numbers of males and females, were randomly assigned to one of four treatments, and each treatment consisted of 12 replicates of 10 birds. Four diets were formulated based on isoenergetic and isonitrogenous principles. The control group (CAP 0) did not receive any CAP, while the experimental groups received 2% (CAP 2), 3% (CAP 3), and 4% (CAP 4) of CAP for six weeks. Compared with the CAP0, (1) The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was lower (p < 0.05), and the leg muscle yield was higher (p < 0.05) in the CAP3 and CAP4; (2) The serum levels of TP, ALB, T-AOC, and SOD were improved in the CAP3 (p < 0.05); (3) The expression of Lipin-1 gene was down-regulated and AMPKα2, Akt, and 4E-BP1 genes were up-regulated in the experiment group (p < 0.05); (4) The inclusion of 3% CAP in the diet increased the levels of 4E-BP1, S6K1, Akt, and AMPKα2 phosphorylation by modulating the mTOR signaling pathway (p < 0.05). In conclusion, broiler diets containing 3% CAP can activate the mTOR signaling pathway to promote muscle synthesis and improve growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of oxycodone as an opioid receptor agonist on immune function is still controversial. In this study, we investigated the possible effects of oxycodone on immune function in mice and its possible mechanisms of action. Methods: By repeated intraperitoneal injections of 25 mg/kg morphine and 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 60 mg/kg oxycodone, we assessed possible changes in the number of splenic lymphocytes and inflammatory cytokines in the serum of mice. CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells were sorted from the spleen to observe whether the expression levels of opioid receptors and downstream signals were altered. Results: Repeated administration of oxycodone at a dose above 20 mg/kg resulted in significant weight loss. Repeated administration of oxycodone exhibits significant dose-dependent reduction in CD4+ T cells, with little effect on CD8+ T cells and little effect on inflammatory cytokine levels. Low- and intermediate-dose oxycodone increased the mRNA expression level of MOR, KOR, and DOR to varying degrees. Moreover, oxycodone increases the mRNA expression levels of the TLR4 signaling pathway to varying degrees. Conclusion: Repeated intraperitoneal injection of oxycodone induces immunosuppression in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia ulmoides is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, with pharmacological effects such as lowering blood pressure and enhancing immune function. The effects of dietary Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharide (EUP) on immune function and meat quality were studied in Songliao Black Pigs. Blood lymphocyte counts and percentage, concentrations of serum total protein and of albumin increased, whereas those of urea nitrogen and triglyceride decreased. White blood cell and lymphocyte counts, and serum IgA, IgE, IgG2 a and IFN-γ increased. Average daily weight gain, slaughter weight, lean meat rate and cooked meat rate increased, whereas pH24, feed-weight ratio, fat rate, yellowness (b#) and centrifugal dehydration rate decreased. Transcriptome sequencing of longissimus dorsi muscle detected 32 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 26 were up-regulated and 6 down-regulated. A total of 19 genes were differentially expressed in the four groups, 18 of which were up-regulated. The DEGs included ADAMTS4, PER1, STAC, SERPINE1, FASN, THRSP, SP7 and KRT80 and the protein interaction network showed 20 up-regulated nodes, three down-regulated nodes and 14 DEGs. GO functional annotation and enrichment analysis showed that 34 items were significantly enriched, including transferase activity, actin binding, acetyl coenzyme A, acyl coenzyme A metabolism, adipose tissue development and acyl glycerol homeostasis. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the AMPK and PPAR signaling pathways were enriched. Dietary Eucommia polysaccharide enhanced immune function in Songliao Black Pigs, improved growth and carcass performance, increased the expression of genes related to meat quality traits and improved meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migratory birds may either upregulate their immune system during migration as they might encounter novel pathogens or downregulate their immune system as a consequence of trade‐offs with the resource costs of migration. Support for the latter comes not least from a study that reports a positive correlation in autumn migrating birds between fuel stores and parameters of innate and acquired immune function, that is, energy‐exhausted migrants appear to have lowered immune function. However, to our knowledge, no study has tested whether this pattern exists in spring migrating birds, which may face other trade‐offs than autumn migrants. Here, we investigate if in spring there is a relationship between fuel stores and microbial‐killing ability, a measure of innate immune function, and total immunoglobulin (IgY), a measure of acquired immune function, in four migrating bird species: chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs), dunnocks (Prunella modularis), song thrushes (Turdus philomelos) and northern wheatears (Oenanthe oenanthe). Our findings indicate no significant correlation between fuel stores and either microbial killing ability or IgY levels when considering all species collectively. When analysing species separately, we found a significant negative correlation between fuel stores and microbial‐killing ability in chaffinches and a positive correlation between fuel stores and IgY levels in wheatears. In song thrushes, but not in any of the other species, there was a significant negative correlation between relative arrival date and microbial‐killing ability and between arrival date and IgY levels. Sex did not affect immune function in any of the species. Our study suggests that the relationship between immune function and fuel stores may be different during spring migration compared to autumn migration. Differences in the speed of migration or pathogen pressure may result in different outcomes of the resource trade‐off between investment in immune function and migration among the seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of Chinese medicinal herbs additives on the growth performance and immune function of growing chickens. A total of 288 healthy Jinghong No. 1 growing chickens at six weeks of age were randomly divided into four groups, with six replicates in each group and 12 chickens in each replicate. Group Ⅰ (Control group), Group Ⅱ, Group Ⅲ, and Group Ⅳ were supplemented with 0, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% Chinese medicinal herbs additives in the basic diet, respectively. The experimental period lasted for eight weeks. The results showed that compared to Group Ⅰ, the body weight of experimental groups at 10 and 14 weeks of age was significantly increased (P<0.05), the average daily weight gain in Group Ⅱ, Group Ⅲ, and Group Ⅳ was increased at 7 to 10 weeks and 11 to 14 weeks of age. At 14 weeks of age, the serum growth hormone level in Group Ⅳ was significantly higher than that of Group Ⅰ (P<0.05), the serum thyroxine levels in Group Ⅱ, Group Ⅲ, and Group Ⅳ were significantly higher than that of Group Ⅰ (P<0.05). At 10 weeks of age, the serum T-AOC, SOD, and GSH-Px activities were enhanced, and the serum MDA content was reduced in Group Ⅱ, Group Ⅲ, and Group Ⅳ. At 14 weeks of age, the serum CAT activity was significantly increased in Group Ⅱ and Group Ⅳ, and the serum MDA content was significantly reduced in Group Ⅱ and Group Ⅲ (P<0.05). Compared to Group Ⅰ, the serum IL-6 content was significantly reduced, and the IL-10 content was significantly increased in Group Ⅲ at 10 weeks of age (P<0.05). At 14 weeks of age, the serum IL-6 and IL-1β contents were significantly reduced in Group Ⅳ(P<0.05), the serum IL-10 content was significantly increased in Group Ⅱ, Group Ⅲ, and Group Ⅳ (P<0.05). The study indicates that the addition of Chinese medicinal herbs to the diet can improve the growth performance, enhance immune function, and antioxidant capacity of growing chickens, with the suitable addition rate being 0.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the experiment was to explore the effects of composite enzyme preparation on the growth performance, nutrients apparent digestibility, immune function, and mutton quality of mutton sheep. A total of 120 mutton sheep were divided into four groups by random block design method, with six replicates in each group and five mutton sheep in each replicate: Control group (basal diet), experimental group A (basal diet + 1.0 g/kg composite enzyme preparation), experimental group B (basal diet + 2.0 g/kg composite enzyme preparation), and experimental group C (basal diet + 4.0 g/kg composite enzyme preparation). The pre-test lasted for seven days and the formal test lasted for 90 days. The results showed that the average daily gain of the mutton sheep in the experimental group C was significantly higher than that in other groups (P<0.05), and the feed to weight ratio was significantly lower than that in other groups (P<0.05). The apparent digestibility of crude protein, crude fat, dry matter, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and calcium in all the experimental groups were significantly higher than those in control group (P<0.05). The concentrations of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and spleen index of mutton sheep in the experimental group C were significantly higher than those in other groups (P<0.05). The carcass weight and pH24 h value of mutton sheep in the experimental group C were significantly higher than those of other groups (P<0.05), while the cooking loss and drip loss were significantly lower than those of other groups (P<0.05). The shear stress of experimental group B and group C was significantly lower than that of experimental group A and control group (P<0.05). The study indicates that the composite enzyme preparation can improve the growth performance, apparent digestibility of nutrients, immune function, and mutton quality of mutton sheep, and the application of 4.0 g/kg composite enzyme preparation has the better effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence is emerging on the role of maternal diet, gut microbiota, and other lifestyle factors in establishing lifelong health and disease, which are determined by transgenerationally inherited epigenetic modifications. Understanding epigenetic mechanisms may help identify novel biomarkers for gestation-related exposure, burden, or disease risk. Such biomarkers are essential for developing tools for the early detection of risk factors and exposure levels. It is necessary to establish an exposure threshold due to nutrient deficiencies or other environmental factors that can result in clinically relevant epigenetic alterations that modulate disease risks in the fetus. This narrative review summarizes the latest updates on the roles of maternal nutrients (n-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins) and gut microbiota on the placental epigenome and its impacts on fetal brain development. This review unravels the potential roles of the functional epigenome for targeted intervention to ensure optimal fetal brain development and its performance in later life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic partial hepatectomy inevitably decrease patient immune function. Propofol has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects but is associated with hemodynamic side effects. Despite studies showing a negligible impact of remimazolam tosylate on hemodynamics, it has not been reported for partial hepatectomy patients. Its influence on immune function also remains unexplored. This study sought to investigate the differences in immune function and intraoperative hemodynamics between patients who underwent laparoscopic partial hepatectomy with remimazolam tosylate and those who underwent laparoscopic partial hepatectomy with propofol. Methods: This was a single-center, randomized controlled trial involving 70 patients, who underwent elective laparoscopic partial hepatectomy. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: the remimazolam group (group R) and the propofol group (group P). In this study, the primary outcomes assessed included the patient's immune function and hemodynamic parameters, and the secondary outcomes encompassed the patient's liver function and adverse events. Results: Data from 64 patients (group R, n = 31; group P, n = 33) were analyzed. The differences in the percentages of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and NK cells and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio between the two groups were not statistically significant at 1 day or 3 days after surgery. Compared with those in group P, the MAP and HR at T2 and the MAP at T1 in group R were significantly increased(P < 0.05). The differences in HR and MAP at T0, T3, T4, T5, T6, and T7 and HR at T1 between the two groups were not statistically significant. There were no differences in liver function or adverse effects between the two groups, suggesting that remimazolam tosylate is a safe sedative drug(P > 0.05). Conclusion: The effects of remimazolam tosylate on the immune function of patients after partial hepatectomy are comparable to those of propofol. Additionally, its minimal effect on hemodynamics significantly decreases the incidence of hypotension during anesthesia induction, thereby enhancing overall perioperative safety. Trial registration: The trial was registered on May 9, 2022 in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, registration number ChiCTR2200059715 (09/05/2022). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of technology promotes the use of plastics,which are discharged and accumulated in the aquatic environment seriously endanger the health of aquatic animals and ecosystem safety. Non-degradable microplastics in the aquatic environment can affect the normal growth and development of aquatic animals,which seriously restricts the development of aquaculture industry. This paper reviews the distribution and types of microplastics in water and their effects on the growth and development,antioxidant capacity,immune function and tissue structure of aquatic animals,aiming to provide a reference for the study of the effects of microplastics on aquatic animals and the healthy ecological development of aquatic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the effects of curcumin on the in vitro proliferation and apoptosis of mouse liver cancer Hepa1-6 cells. Methods Hepa1-6 cells in the logarithmic growth phase were divided into the control group, 10 µmol/L group, 20 µmol/L group and 40 µmol/L group, respectively, which were treated with 0, 10, 20, and 40 µmol/L of curcumin. Cell proliferation was assessed by the MTT assay, and apoptosis level was detected by FACS. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was employed to detect the levels of apoptosis-related molecules Bcl-2, Caspase-3, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), IFN-α, and IFN-β in Hepa1-6 cells. The secretion levels of IFN-α and IFN-β in the cell culture supernatant were determined using ELISA. Hepa1-6 cells were incubated with CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells in the control group and 40 µmol/L curcumin group, respectively. FACS was used to detect the expression levels of CD69 in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells. Results The proliferation inhibition rates of Hepa1-6 cells in the 10, 20 and 40 µmol/L groups increased in a dose-dependent manner, and the inhibition rates were (36. 45 ± 2. 11) %, （46. 40 ± 2. 08) % and (82. 16 ± 3. 32) %, respectively. There was statistically significant difference in comparison with that of the control group (P<0. 05) . The apoptotic proportions of Hepa1-6 cells in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups were 10. 47%, 26. 66% and 49. 81%, respectively. And the difference was statistically significant in comparison with that of the control group (P<0. 01) . RT-qPCR results showed that the transcription levels of anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups were (0. 77 ± 0. 06) times, （0. 44 ± 0. 06) times and (0. 25 ± 0. 08) times that of the control group, respectively, with statistically significant difference (all P<0. 01) . At the same time, the expression of proapoptotic gene Caspase-3 significantly increased, and the transcription levels of pro-apoptotic gene Caspase-3 in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups was (1. 73 ± 0. 31) times, （2. 52 ± 0. 45) times and (3. 25 ± 0. 20) times that of the control group, respectively, with statistically significant difference (all P<0. 01) . With the increase of curcumin concentrations, TLR2 transcription levels increased gradually. TLR2 transcription levels in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups were (3. 56 ± 0. 59) times, （4. 93 ± 0. 04) times and (6. 60 ± 0. 47) times that of the control group, respectively, with statistically significant difference (all P<0. 05) . In addition, the transcription levels of IFN-α in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups significantly increased, which were (4. 21 ± 0. 22), （5. 54 ± 0. 39) and (8. 05 ± 0. 93) times that of the control group, respectively, and there were statistically significant differences among these groups (all P<0. 05) . The transcription levels of IFN-β were (3. 08 ± 0. 51), （5. 31 ± 0. 55) and (8. 35 ± 0. 59) times that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (all P<0. 01) . For IFN-α, compared with the control group ［（36. 26 ± 6. 12) pg/mL］, the levels of IFN-α secreted by cells in the 10 µmol/L, 20 µmol/L and 40 µmol/L groups were (57. 00 ± 8. 8), （82. 47 ± 4. 42), and (100. 37 ± 8. 99) pg/mL, respectively； the levels of IFN-α secreted by cells in the 10, 20, and 40 µmol/L groups were higher that that of the control group (all P<0. 01) . The levels of IFN-β secreted by the cells in the 10, 20, and 40µmol/L groups were (60. 67 ± 6. 81), （91. 33 ± 5. 51), and (144. 00 ± 10. 15) pg/mL, respectively, while that in the control group was (44. 67 ± 1. 15) pg/mL. The levels of IFN-β secreted by the cells in the 10, 20, and 40 µmol/L groups were higher than that in the control group (all P<0. 01) . In the control group, CD69 expression levels of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells were (24. 53 ± 1. 39) %, （23. 40 ± 2. 32) %, （32. 33 ± 3. 08) %, respectively. The CD69 expression levels of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells in the 40 µmol/L group were (39. 90 ± 3. 51) %, (31. 47 ± 3. 88) %, （50. 83 ± 4. 74) %, respectively. There were significant differences in CD69 levels of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and NK cells between control group and 40 µmol/L group (all P<0. 05) . Conclusion Curcumin promotes the secretion of type Ⅰ interferon by regulating the expression of TLR2, thus inhibits the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, induces the apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, as well as promotes the activation of immune cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this experiment was to study the effects of fermented Schisandra dregs on growth performance, serum biochemical indexes, and immune function of Shanxi black pigs. Sixty 28-day-old Shanxi black weaned piglets were randomly divided into four groups with three replicates in each group and five weaned piglets in each replicate. In each group, 0 (control group), 0.1% (experimental group Ⅰ), 0.2% (experimental group Ⅱ), and 0.3% (experimental group Ⅲ) fermented Schisandra dregs were added to the basal diet, respectively. The pre-test period was seven days, and the formal test period was 21 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the average daily gain of weaned piglets in experimental group Ⅱ and experimental group Ⅲ increased significantly (P<0.05), and the feed to gain ratio decreased significantly (P<0.05). The diarrhea rate of weaned piglets in all experimental groups decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the contentrations of serum albumin, total protein and blood glucose in all experimental groups increased significantly (P<0.05), while the activity of aspartate-oxaloacetic aminotransferase decreased significantly (P<0.05). The serum globulin content in the experimental group Ⅱ and experimental group Ⅲ increased significantly (P<0.05), while the serum urea nitrogen content decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the serum levels of IgG, IgM, and IL-2 in all experimental groups were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the serum levels of IgA in the experimental group Ⅱ and experimental group Ⅲ were significantly increased (P<0.05). The results show that fermented Schisandra dregs can effectively improve the growth performance, reduce diarrhea rate, improve serum biochemical indexes and enhance immune function of weaned piglets, and the best results are achieved with a 0.3% addition rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To probe into the effects of minimally invasive thoracic catheterization assisted with urokinase combined with dexamethasone on serum T lymphocyte related cytokines and fibrinolytic activity in patients with tuberculous pleurisy. METHODS: A total of 90 patients with tuberculous pleurisy admitted into the hospital from Apr. 2019 to Apr. 2023 were extracted to be divided into the dexamethasone group and combined group via the random number table method, with 45 cases in each group. Patients in the dexamethasone group were treated with minimally invasive thoracic catheterization assisted with dexamethasone, while the combined group received minimally invasive thoracic catheterization assisted with urokinase combined with dexamethasone. The improvement of clinical symptoms and pleural thickness of two groups were compared. Levels of lung function [ maximum expiratory flow (MEF), forced vital capacity ( FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second ( FEV1 )], hypersensitive C-reactive protein ( hs-CRP ) and tumor necrosis factor ( TNF-α), T lymphocyte CD4+ and CD3+, tissue type plasminogen activator (t-PA) / plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and type Ⅲ procollagen (PC-Ⅲ) levels of two groups were detected, the therapeutic effects of two groups were compared. RESULTS: The disappearance time of chest tightness, pleural effusion and fever in combination group was shorter than that in dexamethasone group, and the pleural thickness was lower than that in dexamethasone group, with statistically significant differences (P < 0. 05). After treatment, the levels of MEF, FVC and FEV1 in combined group were higher than those in dexamethasone group, the levels of hs-CRP, TNF-α and PC-Ⅲ were lower than those in dexamethasone group, and the levels of CD4+, CD3+ and t-PA/ PAI-1 were higher than those in dexamethasone group, with statistically significant differences (P< 0. 05). The total effective rate of combined group was 95. 56% (43 / 45), higher than 80. 00% (36 / 45) of dexamethasone group, the difference was statistically significant ( P < 0. 05 ). CONCLUSIONS: The efficacy of minimally invasive thoracic catheterization assisted with urokinase combined with dexamethasone in the treatment of patients with tuberculous pleurisy is significant, which can effectively reduce the clinical symptoms, improve lung function, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function and fibrinolytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the impact of tetrandrine tablets on cytokines, immune function, blood gas and respiratory function in patients with stage II pneumoconiosis. Methods: 136 subjects with stage II pneumoconiosis diagnosed and treated in People's Hospital of Linyi City, Linyi City, China were divided into control and study cohorts, each with 68 individuals. Patients in control cohort received conventional symptomatic treatment, while study cohort additionally received tetrandrine tablets orally 3 times per day, for 4 weeks. Lung function, serum indicators and blood gas indicators were determined before and after treatment. Results: After treatment, the levels of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC in both groups were significantly increased in both cohorts, with significantly higher values in study cohort. In both cohorts, there were higher post-treatment numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ cells and CD4+/CD8+ ratio than before treatment, but with significantly higher values in study cohort (p < 0.05). After treatment, there were significantly raised levels of peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2), minute ventilation (VE) and tidal volume (VT) in the two cohorts, with higher values in the study group cohort (p < 0.05). Moreover, treatment resulted in a significant reduction in partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO2), with significantly lower levels in study cohort (p < 0.05). After treatment, concentrations of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), and tumor necrosis factor beta-1 (TNF-β1) in study cohort were significantly reduced, relative to pre-treatment. Conclusion: Tetrandrine tablets are efficacious in stage II pneumoconiosis patients. The drug is beneficial in improving immune function, reducing levels of inflammatory mediators, and improving lung function and blood gas indicators in patients. Future studies incorporating additional parameters and a larger number of patients will be required to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the efficacy and safety of this treatment protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of Taraxacum mongolicum polysaccha‐ ride (TMP) on growth performance, serum antioxidant and immune function in piglets. Selecting 48 healthy and similar weight 21 day old piglets were randomly divided into four groups with four replicates per group (three piglets per replicate). The control group was fed with basal diet, and the experimental groups were fed the experimental diets supplemented with 0.5, 1.0 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg TMP for 30 days. Growth performance, serum antioxidant and immune indexes of piglets were measured. The results showed as follows: dietary supplemented with 2.0 g/kg TMP significantly increased average daily gain and average daily feed intake in piglets (P<0.05). Dietary supplemented with 0.5, 1.0 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg TMP significantly increased the serum alkaline phosphatase (AKP) activity and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (P<0.05), and significantly de‐ creased the contents of corticosterone (COR), malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonyl (PC) content (P<0.05); dietary supplemented with 1.0 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg TMP significantly increased insulin (INS) content and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities (P< 0.05); dietary supplemented with 1.0 g/kg TMP significantly decreased the activity of alanine aminotrans‐ ferase (GPT) (P<0.05). Dietary supplemented with 1.0 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg TMP significantly increased LZM, IgA, IgG and IL-2 contents (P<0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 1.0-2.0 g/kg TMP can promote growth performance, antioxidant and immunity in weaned piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to study the effects of compound enzyme supplementation within a low-protein diet on the growth performance, serum biochemical and antioxidant parameters, immune function, and digestive organ development in white-feather broilers. A total of 288 one-day-old white-feathered broilers were randomly distribute six treatment groups. The trial spanned 42 days and comprised two dietary formulation stages: 1- 21 days and 22-42 days. The control group (CK) received a conventional protein diet with protein levels of 21.28% and 19.04% during the respective stages. Other treatment groups received a low-protein diet with crude protein levels 0.97% and 0.94% lower than the CK group for the same periods. The groups T1, T2, and T3 were supplemented with 200 mg/kg complex enzyme A, 200 mg/kg complex enzyme B, and 300 mg/kg complex en‐ zyme B, respectively. Moreover, the T4 groups was supplemented with 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg com‐ plex enzyme B enzyme in the first and second stages, respectively. And the T0 group received the low-protein diet without enzyme supplementation. The results showed that the T2, T3 group exhibited significantly higher values for 21-day live weight, 42-day live weight, and the production index compared to other groups. Additionally, the feed-to-weight ratio for the entire 1-42 days period was lower in the T3 group. Serum urea levels in the CK and T3 groups were significantly lower than those in the T4 group (P<0.05). Conversely, the serum aspartate aminotransferase content in the T2 group was notably higher than T0, T3 and T4 groups (P<0.05). Serum superoxide dismutase content in the T0, T1, and T2 groups was significantly lower than in the T4 group (P<0.05). Furthermore, T4 group displayed significantly higher levels of IgA, IgG, and IgE compared to the T0 group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the incorporation of compound enzymes into the low-protein diet of white-feathered broilers enhances the biochemical and antioxidant capacity of white-feathered broilers, promotes the development of immune organs and diges‐ tive organs, and improves immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Astragali Radix cell wall is composed of dense components, which greatly reduces the utilization rate of its active constituents and limits its application and promotion in animals. The application of microbial fermentation technology can effectively address this issue. We produced a mixed-bacterial-fermented Astragalus powder. In this study, we found that fermented Astragalus powder has the potential to enhance the growth performance, immune function, and antioxidant capacity of broilers to a certain degree. Additionally, it has shown promising effects in regulating the intestinal flora. Fermented Astragalus powder is expected to be a novel kind of feed additive. A total of 320 1-day-old broilers were randomly divided into five groups. The control group (CON) received a basal diet, while the FAP4, FAP2, and FAP1 groups were provided with the basal diet supplemented with 4%, 2%, and 1% fermented Astragalus powder, respectively. The unfermented Astragalus powder (UAP2) group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 2% UAP. Each group contained eight replicates of eight chicks each. The results revealed that the final BW and ADG in the FAP 1 and FAP2 were higher than those in the UAP2 and CON groups, while reducing F/G from day 14 to day 42. On day 42, the thymus index in the UAP and FAP groups as well as the bursa index in the FAP4 group showed significant increases compared to those in the CON group. Supplementation with 2% FAP elevated serum IgA levels in broilers on day 28 and day 42, and it also increased serum IgG levels on day 42. Furthermore, supplementation with 2% FAP elevated serum albumin (ALB) levels in broilers, while supplementation with 4% FAP increased serum (glucose) GLU levels in broilers on day 28. The serum biochemical parameters and pathological observation of the liver and kidney in the groups did not show any adverse effects on broilers' health. In addition, the serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level significantly increased in the FAP4 and FAP2 groups on day 28, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in both serum and liver tissue decreased in the FAP2 group on day 28 and day 42. Compared to the CON group, 2% FAP and 2% UAP supplementation reduced the relative abundance of Bacteroides and supplementation with 2% FAP increased the relative abundance of Alistipes on day 42. In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of FAP can enhance the growth performance, immune function, and antioxidant capacity and regulate microflora in broilers, of which 2% FAP is more effective. It indicates FAP exhibits significant application potential as a promising feed additive for broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Sleep disturbance is common in autoimmune rheumatism diseases (ARD) and it plays an important role in activating disease and affects the quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of the novel electrical therapy on sleep disturbance in ARD patients and its effect on immunologic factors. Methods: A total of 51 ARD patients (26 treatment group and 25 control group) with sleep disturbance were enrolled in this study. Sleep parameters and immunological indicators (serum level of 12 cytokines and immune function) were collected. The novel electrical therapy was prescribed for 15–30 min 3–6 times a day. The Pittsburg Sleep Index (PSQI) was assessed before and after 3 months' treatment by Mi Energy equipment. Immune function and serum levels of cytokines of all participants at baseline and after treatment were tested with flow cytometry and flow immunofluorescence, respectively. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationship between sleep disturbance and immunologic factors. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to investigate the risk of sleep disturbance in ARD. Results: The global score of PSQI (Baseline: 12.81 ± 4.07, After novel electrical therapy: 4.88 ± 2.76) was effectively improved after 3 months of adjuvant therapy by electrical therapy. We also found that serum levels of IL‐8 and IL‐1β statistically significantly decreased after novel electrical therapy. This adjuvant therapy can also significantly decrease the percentage of CD4 + CD8 + T cell, effector memory CD8 + T cell, Memory CD8 + T cell, Th17 cell, and plasma cell and significantly can increase the percentage of naïve CD8 + T cell, Th2 cell, and Tfh2 cell. Nevertheless, all serum level of 12 cytokines and the percentage of immune cells did not correlate with the PSQI global score except the Tc17 cell. Furthermore, age is an independent risk factor influencing PSQI scores (OR = 1.15, p < 0.05) in patients with autoimmune diseases through multiple linear regression analysis. Conclusions: Novel electrical therapy can effectively improve sleep disturbance in patients with ARD. It can also change the serum level of some cytokines (IL‐8 and IL‐1β) and percentage of immune cells (CD4 + CD8 + T cell, effector memory CD8 + T cell, Memory CD8 + T cell, Th17 cell, naïve CD8 + T cell, Th2 cell, Tfh2 cell, and plasma cell). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to link intracellular adenosine triphosphate content in CD4+ T lymphocytes (CD4+ iATP) with sepsis patient mortality, seeking a new predictive biomarker for outcomes and enhanced management. Methods: 61 sepsis patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit between October 2021 and November 2022 were enrolled. iATP levels were gauged using whole blood CD4+ T cells stimulated with mitogen PHA‐L. Based on CD4+ iATP levels (<132.24 and ≥132.24 ng/mL), patients were categorized into two groups. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. To identify factors associated with mortality, both univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses were conducted. Results: Of the patients, 40 had high CD4+ iATP levels (≥132.24 ng/mL) and 21 had low levels (<132.24 ng/mL). In a 28‐day follow‐up, 21 (34.4%) patients perished. Adjusting for confounders like SOFA score, APACHE II score, lactic acid, and albumin, those with low CD4+ iATP had three‐ to fivefold higher mortality risk compared to high CD4+ iATP patients (61.9% vs. 20.0%; hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], Model 1: 4.515 [1.276–15.974], p =.019, Model 2: 3.512 [1.197–10.306], p =.022). CD4+ iATP correlated positively with white blood cell and neutrophil counts but not with lymphocytes, CD3, and CD4 counts. Conclusions: Low CD4+ iATP levels were associated with a higher risk of mortality in sepsis patients. Measurement of CD4+ iATP may serve as a useful tool for identifying patients at a higher risk of mortality and could potentially provide a basis for clinical treatment. Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Snacking is quite a common preference in this busy world. Increasing the availability of healthier snack alternatives might help consumers view snacks as foods that support health. Design/Methodology/Approach: The current experimental study aimed to determine the nutritional, functional and sensory properties of home-baked cupcakes encouraged with six variants with indigenous flaxseed flour (FF) and flaxseed oil (FO) in 10, 15 and 30% of batter substitution. A one-way ANOVA, least significant difference and Pearson's correlation were applied using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Findings: Proximate analysis indicated an increase in ash, fiber and protein contents as compared to the standard formulation. The highest ash (1.91±0.26%), fiber (1.09±0.01%) and protein contents (3.08±0.30%) were observed in the sample FF30 (30% flaxseed flour). The cupcakes with 30% flaxseed oil had a significantly greater fat content (35.91±0.55%) and hence a total calorie value of 221.00±3.17%. Antioxidant activity and phenol content of fortified cupcakes ranged from 32.88-76.02% and 22-80 mgGAE/100 gms respectively. The sensory evaluation proved FF15 and FO30 to be the most acceptable recipes. Conclusion: Minor recipe alterations to snacks may yield large and long-term health benefits especially promoting immunity and reducing the risk of inflammatory chronic illnesses. Flaxseed oil might be used in snacks substituting for other vegetable oils to enhance the essential fatty acid content without compromising its acceptability. New formulations could therefore be tested to develop foods fortified with higher proportions of functional and nutritious ingredients especially given the ever-increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is a temporary response to intense or prolonged exercise that can cause muscle pain, inflammation, and impaired muscle function. Antioxidant supplementation is a proposed strategy to reduce EIMD symptoms by targeting reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) involved in the process. Objective. The study aimed to investigate the effect of Selenomethionine supplementation on malondialdehyde (MDA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels resulting from Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage (EIMD). Materials and methods. This study used a randomized pretest-posttest control group design, involving a total of 32 male recreational students from the Universitas Negeri Surabaya, (age 19.25 ± 0.76 years, body mass 63.16 ± 3.38 kg, height 167.28 ± 4.54 cm, body fat 19.60% ± 4.57%). The participants were randomly assigned to the selenomethionine group (SEM, 100 μg/day) or placebo group (PLA, corn starch 100 mg/day) for a period of 28 days (4 weeks). On days 1 (baseline) and 29, participants underwent a single bout of EIMD. Blood samples were collected 24 hours post-EIMD to measure MDA and CRP concentrations in plasma. The statistical analysis was conducted using paired sample t-test. Results. The placebo group experienced a significant increase in plasma MDA and CRP concentrations after EIMD compared with baseline values (p < 0.05). However, the SeMet group showed lower plasma MDA and CRP levels than the placebo group. Conclusions. Daily Selenomethionine supplementation for 28 days has been found to reduce oxidative stress by lowering MDA levels in the blood and to decrease inflammation by reducing CRP levels post-exercise-induced muscle damage. This indicates a lower risk of EIMD due to reduced oxidative stress and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Anthropogenic changes to the environment expose wildlife to many pollutants. Among these, tropospheric ozone is of global concern and a highly potent prooxidant. In addition, human activities include several other implications for wildlife, e.g., changed food availability and changed distribution of pathogens in cities. These co-occurring habitat changes may interact, thereby modulating the physiological responses and costs related to anthropogenic change. For instance, many food items associated with humans (e.g., food waste and feeders for wild birds) contain relatively more ω6-than ω3-polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Metabolites derived from ω6-PUFAs can enhance inflammation and oxidative stress towards a stimulus, whereas the opposite response is linked to ω3-derived metabolites. Hence, we hypothesized that differential intake of ω6- and ω3-PUFAs modulates the oxidative stress state of birds and thereby affects the responses towards pro-oxidants. To test this, we manipulated dietary ω6: ω3 ratios and ozone levels in a full-factorial experiment using captive zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). Additionally, we simulated an infection, thereby also triggering the immune system's adaptive pro-oxidant release (i.e., oxidative burst), by injecting lipopolysaccharide. Under normal air conditions, the ω3-diet birds had a lower antioxidant ratio (GSH/GSSG ratio) compared to the ω6-diet birds. When exposed to ozone, however, the diet effect disappeared. Instead, ozone exposure overall reduced the total concentration of the key antioxidant glutathione (tGSH). Moreover, the birds on the ω6-rich diet had an overall higher antioxidant capacity (OXY) compared to birds fed a ω3-rich diet. Interestingly, only the immune challenge increased oxidative damage, suggesting the oxidative burst of the immune system overrides the other pro-oxidative processes, including diet. Taken together, our results show that ozone, dietary PUFAs, and infection all affect the redox-system, but in different ways, suggesting that the underlying responses are decoupled despite that they all increase pro-oxidant exposure or generation. Despite lack of apparent cumulative effect in the independent biomarkers, the combined single effects could together reduce overall cellular functioning and efficiency over time in wild birds exposed to pathogens, ozone, and anthropogenic food sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts are natural active substances derived from plants, which have the functions of anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, regulating flora. They are widely used in medicine, food and other fields. Many studies have showed that plant extracts have great beneficial effects in animal husbandry and are important green feed additives. In this paper, the research progress on application of plant extracts in laying hens was reviewed. The regulatory effects of plant polyphenols, plant polysaccharides, plant flavonoids and alkaloids on the productive performance, anti-oxidative, immune function, lipid metabolism and intestinal flora of layers were emphatically described. The purpose of this paper was to provide reference for the application in layer production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) encompasses a diverse group of lymphoma subtypes with a wide range in disease course. Previous studies show that hypogammaglobulinemia in treatment-naïve patients is associated with poorer survival in high grade B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, though it is not known how this applies across all B-cell lymphoid malignancies. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of immunoglobulin levels and clinical outcomes including survival, hospitalization, and infection rates in patients diagnosed with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas of all grades at our institution. Results: Two-hundred twenty-three adults (aged = 18 years) with available pretreatment IgG levels were selected, with hypogammaglobulinemia defined as IgG< 500 mg/mL. For this analysis, we grouped DLBCL (n=90), Primary CNS (n=5), and Burkitt lymphoma (n=1) together as high-grade, while CLL (n=52), mantle cell (n=20), marginal zone (n=25), follicular (n=21), and Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (n=5) were low-grade. The incidence of hypogammaglobulinemia in our cohort of both high and low-grade lymphoma patients was 13.5% (n=30). Across all NHL subtypes, individuals with baseline IgG< 500 mg/dL showed an increased rate of hospitalization (4.453, CI: 1.955-10.54, p= 0.0005) and higher mortality (3.325, CI: 1.258, 8.491, p= 0.013), yet no association in number of infections when compared with those with IgG=500 mg/dL. There was a higher hospitalization rate (3.237, CI: 1.77-6.051, p=0.0017) in those with high-grade lymphoma with hypogammaglobulinemia when compared with low-grade. Therewas no statistically significant difference in individuals who were alive after three years in those with baseline IgG<500 mg/dL. Discussion: Our study is the first to analyze incidence of hypogammaglobulinemia at the time of diagnosis of NHL as a potential biomarker of interest for future outcomes including hospitalization and infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low immune function after laparoscopic total gastrectomy puts patients at risk of infection-related complications. Low-dose naloxone (LDN) can improve the prognosis of patients suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases or autoimmune diseases. The use of LDN during perioperative procedures may reduce perioperative complications. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of LDN on endogenous immune function in gastric cancer patients and its specific mechanisms through a randomized controlled trial. Methods: Fifty-five patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy were randomly assigned to either a naloxone group (n = 23) or a nonnaloxone group (n = 22). Patients in the naloxone group received 0.05 µg/kg-1.h− 1naloxone from 3 days before surgery to 5 days after surgery via a patient-controlled intravenous injection (PCIA) pump, and patients in the nonnaloxone group did not receive special treatment. The primary outcomes were the rates of postoperative complications and immune function assessed by NK cell, CD3+ T cell, CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, WBC count, neutrophil percentage, and IL-6 and calcitonin levels. The secondary outcomes were the expression levels of TLR4 (Toll-like receptor), IL-6 and TNF-α in gastric cancer tissue. Results: Compared with the nonnaloxone group, the naloxone group exhibited a lower incidence of infection (in the incision, abdomen, and lungs) (P < 0.05). The numbers of NK cells and CD8+ T cells in the naloxone group were significantly greater than those in the nonnaloxone group at 24 h after surgery (P < 0.05) and at 96 h after surgery (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the nonnaloxone group, the CD3 + T-cell (P < 0.05) and CD4 + T-cell (P < 0.01) counts were significantly lower in the naloxone group 24 h after surgery. At 24 h and 96 h after surgery, the WBC count (P < 0.05) and neutrophil percentage (P < 0.05) were significantly greater in the nonnaloxone group. The levels of IL-6 (P < 0.05) and calcitonin in the nonnaloxone group were significantly greater at 24 h after surgery. At 24 h following surgery, the nonnaloxone group had significantly greater levels of IL-6 (P < 0.05) and calcitonin than did the naloxone group. Compared with those in the naloxone group, the expression levels of TLR4 (P < 0.05) in gastric cancer tissue in the naloxone group were greater; however, the expression levels of IL-6 (P < 0.01) and TNF-α (P < 0.01) in the naloxone group were greater than those in the nonnaloxone group. Conclusion: Laparoscopic total gastrectomy patients can benefit from 0.05 ug/kg− 1. h− 1 naloxone by reducing their risk of infection. It is possible that LDN alters the number of cells in lymphocyte subpopulations, such as NK cells, CD3 + T cells, and CD4 + T cells, and the CD4+/CD8 + T-cell ratio or alters TLR4 receptor expression in immune cells, thereby altering immune cell activity. Trial registration: The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 24/11/2023 (ChiCTR2300077948). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Metronomic capecitabine used as an adjuvant therapy improves survival in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC). This therapeutic approach may also contribute to improving immune function, consequently enhancing overall therapeutic efficacy. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the effect of metronomic capecitabine as adjuvant therapy on immune function and survival in cases of LA-NPC. Subjects and methods: 28 patients with LA-NPC were enrolled in the study and equally assigned to two groups of 14 each: experimental and control group. The experimental group received induction chemotherapy + concurrent chemotherapy + adjuvant chemotherapy as well as oral capecitabine at a dose of 650 mg/m² of body surface area twice daily for 1 year, with the option to discontinue in case of intolerance. The control group did not receive additional chemotherapy or targeted drugs after the induction chemotherapy + concurrent chemoradiotherapy; however, they were followed up regularly. Changes in immune function and survival were compared between the two groups. Results: The median follow-up time was 43.5 months. One year after adjuvant chemotherapy, the experimental group showed higher levels of CD8 + cells, CD28 + CD8 + cells, and activated CD8 + cells compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The CD4/CD8 ratio and proportion of monocyte-derived dendritic cells were also higher in the experimental group than in the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P ≥ 0.05). Comparisons of 3-year overall survival, local-regional recurrence-free survival, progression-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival between the two groups showed percentages of 92.9% vs. 78.6%, 92.9% vs. 92.9%, 78.6% vs. 71.4%, and 85.7% vs. 0.78 0.6% respectively, but these differences were not significant (P > 0 0.05). Conclusion: Metronomic capecitabine chemotherapy was observed to induce an immunomodulatory effect in LA-NPC. Trial registration: NCT02958111, date of registration 04-11-2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionTo investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine combined with intraoperative thermal insulation on postoperative cognitive function, cellular immune status and inflammatory markers in patients undergoing radical resection for colorectal cancer.Fifty patients who underwent radical resection of colorectal cancer in our hospital from March 2020 to September 2021 were selected and divided into observation group (26 cases with dexmedetomidine combined with intraoperative thermal insulation intervention) and control group (24 cases with conventional anesthesia management). The evaluation measures included the mini-mental state scale (MMSE) score, CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell ratio and CD4+/CD8+ ratio, the level of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP), and the incidence of postoperative complications.The MMSE score of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group on the 3rd day after operation (p < 0.001). After treatment, the proportion of CD4+ T cells, the proportion of CD8+ T cells and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ in observation group were higher than those in control group (p < 0.01), while the inflammatory markers IL-6, TNF-α and CRP were lower than those in control group (p < 0.01). The incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in the observation group (7.69%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (33.33%) (p = 0.010), and the postoperative infection rate was also significantly decreased (p = 0.042).Dexmedetomidine combined with intraoperative insulation can significantly improve postoperative cognitive function, maintain immune balance, reduce inflammatory response, and reduce the incidence of POCD and other postoperative complications in patients with radical resection of colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of nutritional support combined with high-quality nursing on lung function, quality of life, and compliance of patients with lung cancer after chemotherapy. We enrolled 80 patients with lung cancer admitted to Ankang People’s Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023. The patients in the observation group received scientific nutrition support combined with high-quality nursing, while those in the control group received routine nursing alone. After three months of intervention, we found that patients in the observation group had higher transferrin, PAB, Alb, Hb, CD4+, CD3+, and CD4+/CD8+ levels than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, patients in the observation group had lower self-rating anxiety scale, self-rating depression scale, pulmonary function index scores, and fewer adverse reactions than those in the control group. Patients in the observation group had higher social function scores, role function scores, physical function scores, cognitive function scores, emotional function scores, and treatment compliance rates than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Scientific nutrition support combined with high-quality nursing for patients with lung cancer during chemotherapy can help improve nutritional status, immunological function, lung function, quality of life, treatment compliance, adverse reactions, and psychological state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal cell carcinoma is a common malignancy of the urinary system. Surgery can save renal cell carcinoma patients’ lives, but concerns associated with their quality of life are a major clinical concern. Herein, we have analyzed the value of fatigue, resistance, aerobic, illness, and lost nursing, commonly known as FRAIL nursing, on the improvement in rehabilitation quality and nutritional status of renal cell carcinoma patients. The results show that compared with renal cell carcinoma patients in the control group receiving routine care, patients who received fatigue, resistance, aerobic, illness, and lost nursing had significantly shortened postoperative rehabilitation time, reduced incidence of postoperative complications, and enhanced nursing compliance and quality of life. Also, the nutritional status and immune function of renal cell carcinoma patients were significantly improved after fatigue, resistance, aerobic, illness, and lost nursing, demonstrating its high application value in clinical treatment of renal cell carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]