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Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (rh-bFGF) combined with ranitidine in the treatment of recurrent oral ulcer and its effects on serum TNF, IL-2 and T-lymphocyte subsets. Methods: This was a retrospective study. Eighty patients with oral ulcers admitted to First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital from July 2021 to June 2022 were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group (n=40). Patients in the control group were given topical treatment with rh-bFGF gel, while those in the experimental group were given oral treatment combined with ranitidine based on the control group, and both groups were treated continuously for 14 days. The therapeutic effect, pain relief time, ulcer healing time, as well as the differences in the levels of inflammatory factors and T-lymphocyte subsets were compared and analyzed between the two groups. Results: The overall response rate of the experimental group was 92.5%, while that of the control group was 75%, with a statistically significant difference(P=0.03). After treatment, inflammatory factors indexes in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group, with statistically significant differences (P=0.00). The indexes of T-lymphocyte subsets in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group after treatment, with statistically significant differences (P=0.00). Conclusion: Recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor combined with ranitidine is effective in the treatment of recurrent oral ulcers, boasting various benefits such as effectively promoting ulcer healing, reducing pain and inflammatory response, and enhancing immune function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus licheniformis is an anaerobic gram-positive bacterium, which has the characteristics of high temperature resistance, acid resistance, enzyme production, and antibacterial substances, which can improve the growth performance of broilers, improve immune performance, promote intestinal development and regulate intestinal flora, prevent and control diseases such as chicken necrotizing enteritis and coccidiosis, and has the potential to replace antibiotics. The paper reviewed the effects of Bacillus Hcheniformis on the growth performance, immune function, antioxidant performance, intestinal development, and microbial composition of broilers, as well as the prevention and control effects of necrotizing enteritis and coccidiosis, and summarized the appropriate dosage of Bacillus Hcheniformis, in order to provide a reference for the application of Bacillus Hcheniformis in broiler production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Understanding sex differences in immunological responses in the context of obesity is important to improve health outcomes. This systematic review aimed to investigate sex differences in systemic inflammation, immune cell phenotype, and function in diet‐induced obesity (DIO) animal models. A systematic search in Medline, Embase, and CINAHL from inception to April 2023 was conducted, using a combination of the following concepts: sex, obesity, cytokines, and immune cell phenotypes/function. Forty‐one publications reporting on systemic inflammation (61%), cell phenotype (44%), and/or function (7%) were included. Females had lower systemic inflammation compared with males in response to DIO intervention and a higher proportion of macrophage (M)2‐like cells compared with males that had a higher proportion of M1‐like in adipose tissue. Although there were no clear sex differences in immune function, high‐fat DIO intervention remains an important factor in the development of immune dysfunction in both males and females, including disturbances in cytokine production, proliferation, and migration of immune cells. Yet, the mechanistic links between diet and obesity on such immune dysfunction remain unclear. Future studies should investigate the role of diet and obesity in the functionality of immune cells and employ adequate methods for a high‐quality investigation of sex differences in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: High-density intensive farming accelerates the incidence and transmission risk of various infectious diseases in poultry. The development and application of medicinal herbs, probiotics, and other feed additives have gathered a lot of attention in the context of the total ban on antibiotic feed additives and healthy breeding. This study investigated the effects of dietary Terminalia chebula extract (TCE), a plant extract, on growth performance, immune function, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health in yellow-feathered broilers. Our findings demonstrated that TCE could improve broilers' immune function, antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and growth performance. The mechanism for the beneficial effect of TCE supplementation was not limited to the enhancement of the immune response and antioxidant capacity, as there was also an improvement in intestinal health due to TCE enhancing beneficial bacteria, promoting intestinal short-chain fatty acid secretion, and improving intestinal morphology. This improvement in intestinal health ultimately resulted in the improved health status of the yellow-feathered broilers. These findings provide a basis and reference for Terminalia chebula extract as an effective feed additive in broiler breeding. Terminalia chebula extract (TCE) has many physiological functions and is potentially helpful in maintaining poultry health, but its specific effect on the growth of broilers is not yet known. This research investigated the effects of dietary Terminalia chebula extract (TCE) supplementation on growth performance, immune function, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health in yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 288 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were divided into four treatment groups (72 broilers/group), each with six replicates of 12 broilers. The broilers were given a basal diet of corn–soybean meal supplemented with 0 (control), 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg TCE for 56 d. The results demonstrated that, compared with the basal diet, the addition of TCE significantly increased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the final body weight and overall weight gain and performance and decreased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the feed-to-gain ratio in the overall period. Dietary TCE increased (linear, p < 0.05) the levels of IgM, IL-4, and IL-10 and decreased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the level of IL-6 in the serum. Dietary TCE increased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the levels of IL-2 and IL-4, decreased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the level of IL-1β, and decreased (linear, p < 0.05) the level of IL-6 in the liver. Dietary TCE increased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the level of IgM and IL-10, increased (linear, p < 0.05) the level of IgG, and decreased (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) the levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in the spleen. Supplementation with TCE linearly and quadratically increased (p < 0.05) the catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity activities while decreasing (p < 0.05) the malonic dialdehyde concentrations in the serum, liver, and spleen. TCE-containing diets for broilers resulted in a higher (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) villus height, a higher (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) ratio of villus height to crypt depth, and a lower (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05) crypt depth compared with the basal diet. TCE significantly increased (linear, p < 0.05) the acetic and butyric acid concentrations and decreased (quadratic, p < 0.05) the isovaleric acid concentration. Bacteroidaceae and Bacteroides, which regulate the richness and diversity of microorganisms, were more abundant and contained when TCE was added to the diet. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that supplementing broilers with TCE could boost their immune function, antioxidant capacity, and gut health, improving their growth performance; they could also provide a reference for future research on TCE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To investigate the effects of acute hypervolemic hemodilution (AHH) combined with control low central venous pressure (CLCVP) on inflammation,immune regulation and blood protection in patients undergoing posterior spinal operation.Methods:120 patients who were underwent posterior spinal operation in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2020 to December2022 were selected as the research objects,patients were divided into control group,AHH group and AHH+CLCVP group according to the random number table method,with 40 cases in each group.Control group was given lactated Ringer’s solution hemodilution,AHH group was given AHH blood management,and AHH+CLCVP group was given AHH combine with CLCVP blood management.The changes of perioperative indexes,hemodynamic indexes,inflammatory factors indexes and immune function indexes were compared in three groups.Results:The intraoperative blood loss and suspended red blood cell transfusion volume in AHH+CLCVP group were lower than those in AHH group and control group (P＜0.05),the intraoperative blood loss and suspended red blood cell transfusion volume in AHH group were lower than those in control group (P＜0.05).Compared with T1time point,the heart rate (HR) in three groups increased first and then decreased at 60 min after the start of operation (T2)～the end of operation (T3)(P＜0.05),and the mean arterial pressure(MAP) decreased first and then increased (P＜0.05),the central venous pressure (CVP) in control group and AHH group increased first and then decreased at T2～T3(P＜0.05),and the CVP in AHH+CLCVP group remained stable at T0～T3(P＞0.05).HR in AHH+CLCVP group was lower than that in AHH group and control group at T2～T3(P＜0.05),MAP was higher than that in AHH group and control group (P＜0.05),CVP was lower than that in AHH group and control group (P＜0.05),HR in AHH group was lower than that in control group at T2～T3(P＜0.05),MAP was higher than that in control group (P＜0.05).Compared with T1time,the levels of serum procalcitonin (PCT),C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in three groups,peripheral blood CD8+increased first and then decreased at T2～24h after operation (T4)(P＜0.05),peripheral blood CD3+,CD4+,CD4+/CD8+decreased first and then increased at T2～T4(P＜0.05).The levels of serum PCT,CRP,IL-6 and peripheral blood CD8+in AHH+CLCVP group were lower than those in AHH group and control group at T2～T4(P＜0.05),and the levels of peripheral blood CD3+,CD4+and CD4+/CD8+were higher than those in AHH group and control group (P＜0.05),the levels of serum PCT,CRP,IL-6 and peripheral blood CD8+in AHH group were lower than those in control group at T2～T4(P＜0.05),and the levels of peripheral blood CD3+,CD4+and CD4+/CD8+were higher than those incontrol group(P＜0.05).Conclusion: AHH combined with CLCVP can stabilize hemodynamics, reduce intraoperative blood loss and blood transfusion, reduce inflammatory response and improve immune function in patients undergoing posterior spinal operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of enteral nutrition (EN) based on energy metabolism monitoring on intestinal function, nutritional status and immune function in elderly critically ill patients. Methods: According to the random number table method,136 elderly critically ill patients who were admitted to of EICU Department of Nanjing First Hospital from April 2020 to January 2023 were divided into control group (routine EN) and study group (routine EN based on energy metabolism monitoring), with 68 cases in each group. The clinical indexes, nutritional status, immune function indexes, intestinal function indexes and incidence of complications were compared between two groups. Results: The EN compliance rate within 7 days and the success rate of weaning within 7 days in study group were higher than those in control group, the ICU hospitalization time and mechanical ventilation time in study group were shorter than those in control group, and the total incidence of complications was lower than that in control group (P<0.05). 14 days after intervention, the levels of albumin (ALB), serum total protein (TP), prealbumin (PA) and hemoglobin (Hb) in study group were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). 14 days after intervention, the levels of immunoglobulin (Ig) M, IgG and IgA in study group were higher than those in control group (P<0.05). 14 days after intervention, the levels of D-lactic acid and diamine oxidase (DAO) in study group were lower than those in control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: EN intervention based on energy metabolism monitoring in elderly critically ill patients, which can further improve the nutritional status, intestinal function and immune function of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The present paper aimed to study the effect of dietary supplementation with fibrous roots extract of Coptis chinensis and probiotics on growth performance, serum biochemical indicators, immune organ indices, intestinal tissue morphology, and cecal microbiota of Sanhuang chickens, which is helpful to guide the scientific breeding of livestock and poultry. [Method] Using Sanhuang chickens as the experimental subjects, four treatments were set up, with experimental group A as the control group and fed with basic diet; Experimental groups B, C and D were fed the basic diet supplemented with 4% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis +100 mg/kg Bacillus subtilis + 100 mg/kg Lactobacillus plantarum, 8% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis +100 mg/kg B. subtilis + 100 mg/kg L. plantarum, and 12% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis +100 mg/kg B. subtilis + 100 mg/kg L. plantarum, respectively. The differences in growth performance, serum biochemical indicators, immune organ index, intestinal tissue morphology and cecal microbiota of Sanhuang chickens were measured and comyzoyed. [Result] Adding 4% to 12% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis and probiotics to the diet significantly increased the average daily weight gain and significantly reduced the feed to weight ratio of Sanhuang chickens (P<0.05, the same as below), significantly reduced the content of AST, TG, and LDL-C in serum, significantly increased the thymus index, spleen index, and bursal index of Sanhuang chickens, significantly increased the villous height of the duodenum in Sanhuang chickens. Moreover, adding a combination of 8% to 12% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis and probiotics significantly increased the velvety to crypt ratio of the duodenum and ileum, and significantly increased the Observable_Species and Chaol richness indices of cecal microbiota in Sanhuang chickens; The Shannon and Simpson diversity indices were signifiecatly increased. Adding a combination of 4% to 12% fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis and probiotics significantly reduced the relative abundance of harmful bacterial groups belonging to Actinobacteria and Bacteroides, while significantly increase the abundance of probiotic genera including Ruminococcus, Coprococcus, and Oscillospira in the cecal microbiota of Sanhuang chickens. [Conclusion] Adding the fibrous roots extract of C. chinensis and probiotics to the diet can improve the growth performance of Sanhuang chickens, in- creased the average daily weight gain, reduce feed to weight ratio, improve lipid metabolism and liver health, promote the development of immune organs and intestinal morphology, promote the proliferation of probiotics in the intestine, inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, enrich the microbiota of the cecum, and better maintain the health of Sanhuang chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the amelioration of immune function and clinical symptoms in epilepsy patients following the implementation of topiramate therapy. We retrospectively analyzed 90 epilepsy patients treated at our institution from September 2020 to July 2022, segregating them into two groups: the observation group (n = 50, administered with a combination of carbamazepine and topiramate), and the control group (n = 40, treated with carbamazepine alone). The study evaluated disparities in clinical outcomes, immune function modifications, epilepsy score variances, quality of life indices, and incidence of adverse reactions before and after treatment in both groups. The observation group demonstrated a total treatment efficacy rate of 94.00% (47/50), significantly exceeding that of the control group, which stood at 75.00% (30/40) (P < 0.05). Pre-treatment epilepsy and QOLIE-31 scores showed no statistically meaningful difference between the two groups (P > 0.05); however, post-treatment evaluation after 3 months indicated that the observation group had significantly lower epilepsy scores and notably higher QOLIE-31 scores (P < 0.05). Although pre-treatment immune function indices (including CD3+, CD4+, and IgA levels) did not show a significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05), post-treatment levels of CD3+ and CD4+ were markedly higher, and IgA levels were lower in the observation group (P < 0.05). The observation group also exhibited a reduced overall incidence of adverse reactions (12.00%, 6/50), significantly lower than the control group (32.50%, 13/40) (P < 0.05). The adjunctive use of topiramate with standard therapy can enhance the clinical efficacy in epilepsy patients, ameliorating immune function, augmenting the quality of life, and escalating treatment safety, thereby presenting substantial value for clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of tea polyphenols on growth performance, cytokine content, intestinal antioxidant status and intestinal barrier function of lambs, in order to provide reference for intestinal health of ruminants. Methods: Thirty weaned lambs (average initial weight 9.32 ± 1.72 kg) were randomly divided into five groups with six lambs in each group. The control group did not add anything but the basic diet mainly composed of Pennisetum and Corn, and the other four groups added 2, 4, 6 g/kg tea polyphenols and 50 mg/kg chlortetracycline to the basic diet, respectively. The experiment lasted for 42 days. Results: Dietary tea polyphenols improved the growth and stress response and reduced intestinal permeability of lambs (p > 0.05), while CTC did not affect the final lamb weight (p > 0.05). Both tea phenols and CTC significantly reduced inflammatory factors and enhanced the immune system (p > 0.05). Dietary tea polyphenols increased villus height, villus height/crypt depth, secretory immunoglobulin A (p > 0.05), and antioxidant enzymes, while decreasing MDA and apoptosis in the intestine (p > 0.05). However, compared with other groups, the content of T-AOC in jejunum did not change significantly (p > 0.05). Tea polyphenols also increased claudin-1 levels in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum more than CTC (p > 0.05). CTC had a limited effect on the mRNA expression of Occludin and ZO-1, while tea polyphenols increased these in both the duodenum and ileum (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that tea polyphenols can effectively improve the intestinal barrier of weaned lambs, and that they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects similar to those of antibiotics. Thus, tea polyphenols could be used to replace antibiotics in ensuring safety of livestock products and in achieving the sustainable development of modern animal husbandry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics have significant effects in promoting the intestinal function and maintaining the stability of the intestinal microbial community in livestock and poultry. The intestinal epithelium and mucosa serve as the first line of defense against the invasion of exogenous pathogens in the body, playing a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Probiotics can enhance the tight junctions between intestinal epithelial cells, increase the secretion of immune substances, improve the intestinal mucosal barrier, and contribute to the overall health of the organism. This article reviews the mechanisms of action of probiotics on the intestinal tract of livestock and poultry, as well as their impact on immune organs, immune cells and factors, and intestinal mucosal immune function. The aim is to provide new insights for the development of probiotics and their application in livestock and poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to investigate the effects of lentinan on immune function and growth performance of yellow-feathered broilers. A total of 180 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were selected and randomly divided into 6 groups, with 3 replicates in each group and 10 chickens in each group. The first group was the blank control group, fed with basal diet. The second group was supplemented with 25 mg/kg lentinan in basal diet. The third group was supplemented with 50 mg/kg lentinan in basal diet. Group 4 was fed with 100 mg/kg lentinan in basal diet. Group 5 was fed with 150 mg/kg lentinan in basal diet. Group 6 was fed with 200 mg/kg lentinan in basal diet. The experiment lasted for 42 d. The results showed that dietary supplementation of 150-200 mg/kg lentinan for 14 to 42 days can significantly increase serum content of NO, IL-2, IFN- γ, LZM and immune organ index of yellowfeathered broilers (P<0.05). Dietary supplementation of 50-150 mg/kg for 42 days can significantly improve the average daily gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion rate of yellow-feathered broilers (P<0.05). Lentinan could significantly increase the content of serum NO, IL-2, IFN-γ, LZM and immune organ index of yellow broilers, so as to improve the immune function. Lentinan could significantly increase the average daily gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion rate of yellow feathered broilers, so as to improve their growth performance. The recommended addition dose was 150 mg/kg and the recommended addition time was 42 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to study the effects of replacing 40% of soybean meal dosage in broiler feed ration with fermented soybean meal on the growth performance and immune function of white-feathered broilers. One hundred and twenty 7-day-old AA male broilers chicks with the same body condition and close to the same body weight were randomly divided into two treatment groups, with six replicates in each group and 10 broilers in each replicate. The control group was fed a basal ration, and the fermented soybean meal group replaced 40% soybean meal with fermented soybean meal. The experimental period was 30 d. The results showed that: ① compared with the control group, none of the growth performance indexes of white-feathered broilers in the fermented soybean meal group changed significantly (P˃0.05). ② Compared with the control group, the fermented soybean meal significantly reduced the levels of endotoxin (ET) in the jejunum of white-feathered broilers at the age of 21 and 37 days (P˂0.05). In summary, under the conditions of this experiment, the replacement of 40% of the soybean meal dosage in broiler diets with fermented soybean meal in the ration reduced the intestinal ET level in white feather broilers, thus enhancing the body immunity and resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of carelizumab combined with capecitabine for maintenance therapy in first-line treatment of patients with recurrent metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), and its impact on immune function of patients. Methods 80 patients with recurrent metastasis of NPC who were admitted to Qinzhou First People’s Hospital from January 2020 to January 2022 were selected, the recurrent and metastatic NPC patients were divided into the control group and the observation group according to the random number table method, each group has 40 cases. Both groups received gemcitabine combined with cisplatin chemotherapy, the control group received carelizumab monotherapy maintenance treatment for 1 year after chemotherapy, and the observation group received carelizumab combined with capecitabine maintenance treatment for 1 year after chemotherapy. Differences in efficacy, adverse reactions, and percentage of B lymphocyte subsets and natural killer cells (NK) before and after treatment were compared between the two groups. Results; The objective remission rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) in observation group were higher than those in control group (P＜0. 05). The percentages of CD5+B cells, CD5+CD19+B cells and CD3-CD56+NK cells in peripheral blood after treatment was decreased between the two groups (P＜0. 05), but the percentages of CD5+B cells, CD5+CD19+B cells and CD3-CD56+NK cells in peripheral blood of the observation group were higher than those of the control group after treatment (P＜0. 05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions above grade Ⅲ between the two groups (P＞0. 05). Conclusion: Carelizumab combined with capecitabine in first-line maintenance treatment of recurrent and metastatic NPC could improve clinical efficacy, reduce the impact on cellular immune function, and it was safe and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aims of this study were to: a) investigate salivary immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) and cortisol (s-Cort) responses to nine competitive fixtures in starting and non- starting soccer players; and b) compare s-IgA and sCort responses of starters and non-starters considering match outcome. Methods: Saliva from 19 male outfield players from an elite soccer team (mean ± SD, age 26 ± 4 years; weight 80.5 ± 8.1 kg; height 1.83 ± 0.07 m; body-fat 10.8% ± 0.7%) was collected. Saliva samples were taken on the day before each match (MD-1), 60-min before kick-off (MDpre), 30-min post-match (MDpost), and 72-h post-match (MD+3). There were five wins, one draw and three losses. Results: The mean s-IgA value was found to be significantly lower at MD+3 compared to MDpre and MDpost. s-Cort was significantly higher at MDpost compared to MD-1 and MDpre. When compared to MDpre, a statistically significant decrease in s-Cort was observed at MD+3 compared to MDpost. Starters displayed higher s-Cort values across the nine matches. There was a significant group-by-time interaction for s-Cort. There was a significant increase in s-Cort levels at MDpost compared to MD-1 and from MDpre to MDpost in starting players. At MDpost, starters had significantly higher s-Cort values. s-IgA values of starting and non- starting players following successful and unsuccessful matches did not reveal a significant difference. However, similar analysis of s-Cort in successful matches showed a significant difference between starters and nonstarters. s-IgA values at MD-1, MDpre, MDpost and MD+3 in starters and nonstarters following successful and unsuccessful matches revealed significant differences at MDpre and MDpost in starters, respectively. Furthermore, s-Cort values at MD-1, MDpre, MDpost and MD+3 in starters and non-starters in successful and unsuccessful matches revealed significant differences at MD+3 in starting players. Discussion: The present study suggests that in elite level soccer players, both starting status and match outcome influence s-IgA and s-Cort responses, particularly starters. Specifically, s-IgA was lower for starters before and after the match following successful outcomes. Moreover, higher s-Cort values were found before the match while lower values occurred after the match for starters in successful matches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted human life, posing serious physical and psychological threats, particularly to the elderly. While individuals of all ages are susceptible to contracting COVID-19, older people face a heightened risk of developing various diseases due to age-related immunophysiological changes and preexisting health conditions. The interplay between immune health and physical activity is believed to hold even greater significance during a pandemic. Recent findings from our research indicate that the intervention of square stepping exercise (SSE), characterized by a rhythmic and controlled stepping pattern, resulted in increased levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in the elderly. BDNF, known to influence not only nerve cells but also immune cells, suggests a potential link between SSE and immune system modulation. Consequently, this exercise regimen holds promise in counteracting age-related immunophysiological changes, fine-tuning immune responses, and mitigating the severity of potential new virus outcomes, such as 'Disease X.' This review aims to underscore the significance of integrating SSE as a home-based program, serving as a potent tool to enhance immune resilience, prepare for future potential pandemics, and empower older individuals during challenging times. Through the practice of SSE, older adults may strengthen their ability to navigate the challenges posed by pandemics and maintain a sense of control over their well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fermentation feed changes the nutritional content of feed through fermentation of beneficial bacteria, which has the effect of improving the nutritional value of feed, enhancing the conversion rate of feed, promoting the growth and development of animals, safeguarding the health of animals and improving the ecological environment. This paper reviewed the microbial fermentation feed strains and fermentation process as well as the application of microbial fermentation feed in the safe production of swine, which can provide reference for the high-quality and sustainable development of the feed industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of combining docetaxel with radiotherapy in breast cancer patients who have undergone surgery. 110 breast cancer patients admitted to our hospital were selected between January 2023 and June 2023 and randomly allocated into two groups (n = 55/group) using a randomized numerical table method. After surgery, the control group received docetaxel, while the study group received docetaxel in conjunction with X-ray intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Their clinical effectiveness, tumor markers, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT1), oncogene cripto-1 (CP-1), and CUE structural domain protein 2 (CUEDC2) expression levels and adverse events were compared before and after treatment. After treatment, we found no significant differences in T lymphocyte subpopulation indices between the two groups (p > 0.05), while the study group had significantly lower levels of all tumor markers, including DNMT1, CP-1 and CUEDC2, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The incidence of adverse events in the study group (9.09%) was slightly higher than in the control group (5.45%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In summary, postoperative docetaxel combined with X-ray intensity-modulated radiotherapy may lower tumor marker levels, inhibit malignant tumor cell behavior, enhance overall clinical efficacy, and extend patient survival without significantly impacting immune function or increasing the risks of adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the winter in northern China, the type of housing or outdoor management may affect the growth and health of sheep, especially if they are young. We compared growth performance, immune function and antioxidant status of female lambs housed there in an enclosed building, a polytunnel or kept outdoors for 28 days. Compared to lambs kept outdoors at −14 °C, those in the enclosed house and polytunnel had improved growth rates, immune function and antioxidant status. We conclude that the polytunnel is best for the sheep's welfare, followed by the enclosed house, with the outdoor treatment being the worst. Cold conditions in northern China during winter may reduce sheep growth and affect their health, especially if they are young, unless housing is provided. We allocated 45 two-month-old female lambs to be housed in an enclosed building, a polytunnel, or kept outdoors, for 28 days. The daily weight gain and scalp and ear skin temperature of outdoor lambs were less than those of lambs that were housed in either a house or polytunnel; however, rectal temperature was unaffected by treatment. There was a progressive change in blood composition over time, and by the end of the experiment, outdoor lambs had reduced total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and increased malondialdehyde compared to those in the house or polytunnel. In relation to immune responses in the lambs' serum, in the polytunnel, immunoglobulin A (IgA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were higher and immunoglobulin G (IgG) lower compared with the concentrations in lambs that were outdoors. Over the course of the experiment, genes expressing heat shock proteins and antioxidant enzymes increased in lambs in the outdoor treatment, whereas they decreased in lambs in the indoor treatments. It is concluded that although there were no treatment effects on core body temperature, the trends for progressive changes in blood composition and gene expression indicate that the outdoor lambs were not physiologically stable; hence, they should not be kept outdoors in these environmental conditions for long periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic selection for milk production traits in US Holsteins has affected numerous genes associated with reproduction and immunity. This study compares the transcriptomic response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to an in vitro Brucella abortus strain RB51 (RB51) bacterial challenge between contemporary Holsteins and Holsteins that have not been selected for milk production traits since the mid‐1960s. Total RNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells from four contemporary and four unselected lactating, primiparous cows following 24‐h incubation with or without stimulation with RB51 bacteria. RNA was sequenced and reads analyzed using tools from galaxy.scinet.usda.gov. A total of 412 differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate p < 0.05, log fold change > |1|) were identified. The upregulated genes (genes with higher expression in contemporary than unselected cattle) were enriched for 19 terms/pathways, including alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, indicating a cellular stress response. Downregulated genes (genes with higher expression in unselected than contemporary cows) were enriched for 37 terms/pathways, representing diverse immune responses, including natural killer cell‐mediated immunity, interferon‐γ production, negative regulation of interleukin‐10 production, and cytokine receptor activity indicating a broad immune response with an emphasis on immune defense. These results provide evidence that differences exist between the two genotypes in response to in vitro bacterial challenge. This suggests that contemporary cows, genetically selected for milk production, may have reduced immune function, including limitations in response to intracellular bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ambient air pollution is a neurotoxicant with hypothesized immune-related mechanisms. Adolescent brain structural and functional connectivity may be especially vulnerable to ambient pollution due to the refinement of large-scale brain networks during this period, which vary by sex and have important implications for cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functioning. In the current study we explored associations between air pollutants, immune markers, and structural and functional connectivity in early adolescence by leveraging cross-sectional sex-stratified data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development℠ Study®. Methods: Pollutant concentrations of fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone were assigned to each child's primary residential address during the prenatal period and childhood (9-10 years-old) using an ensemble-based modeling approach. Data collected at 11-13 years-old included resting-state functional connectivity of the default mode, frontoparietal, and salience networks and limbic regions of interest, intracellular directional and isotropic diffusion of available white matter tracts, and markers of cellular immune activation. Using partial least squares correlation, a multivariate data-driven method that identifies important variables within latent dimensions, we investigated associations between 1) pollutants and structural and functional connectivity, 2) pollutants and immune markers, and 3) immune markers and structural and functional connectivity, in each sex separately. Results: Air pollution exposure was related to white matter intracellular directional and isotropic diffusion at ages 11–13 years, but the direction of associations varied by sex. There were no associations between pollutants and resting-state functional connectivity at ages 11–13 years. Childhood exposure to nitrogen dioxide was negatively correlated with white blood cell count in males. Immune biomarkers were positively correlated with white matter intracellular directional diffusion in females and both white matter intracellular directional and isotropic diffusion in males. Lastly, there was a reliable negative correlation between lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio and default mode network resting-state functional connectivity in females, as well as a compromised immune marker profile associated with lower resting-state functional connectivity between the salience network and the left hippocampus in males. In post-hoc exploratory analyses, we found that the PLSC-identified white matter tracts and resting-state networks related to processing speed and cognitive control performance from the NIH Toolbox. Conclusions: We identified novel links between childhood nitrogen dioxide and cellular immune activation in males, and brain network connectivity and immune markers in both sexes. Future research should explore the potentially mediating role of immune activity in how pollutants affect neurological outcomes as well as the potential consequences of immune-related patterns of brain connectivity in service of improved brain health for all.

Although seasonal changes in physiology are well documented, little is known about how human immune and metabolic markers vary across seasons, and no studies have examined how stress → health biomarker associations differ across the year. To investigate these issues, we analyzed data from 2118 participants of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study to determine whether there were differences in (a) levels of 19 immune and metabolic markers, and (b) the association between perceived stress and each biomarker across the year. Results of component-wide boosted generalized additive models revealed seasonal patterning for most biomarkers, with immune proteins generally peaking when days were shorter. Moreover, whereas levels of hemoglobin A1C rose from late fall to spring, triglycerides were elevated in the summer and fall, and high-density lipoprotein decreased steadily from January to December. Urinary cortisol and cortisone exhibited opposite patterns, peaking at the beginning and end of the year, respectively. Most critically, we found that the effects of perceived stress on 18 of the 19 health biomarkers assessed varied by month of measurement. In some cases, these differences involved the magnitude of the stress → biomarker association but, in other cases, it was the direction of the effect that changed. Studies that do not account for month of biomarker assessment may thus yield misleading or unreproducible results.

ABSTRACT Acquired immunity is an important way to construct the intestinal immune barrier in mammals, which is almost dependent on suckling. To develop a new strategy for accelerating the construction of gut microbiome, newborn Holstein calves were continuously fed with 40 mL of compound probiotics (containing Lactobacillus plantarum T-14, Enterococcus faecium T-11, Saccharomyces cerevisiae T-209, and Bacillus licheniformis T-231) per day for 60 days. Through diarrhea rate monitoring, immune index testing, antioxidant capacity detection, and metagenome sequencing, the changes in diarrhea incidence, average daily gain, immune index, and gut microbiome of newborn calves within 60 days were investigated. Results indicated that feeding the compound probiotics reduced the average diarrhea rate of calves by 42.90%, increased the average daily gain by 43.40%, raised the antioxidant indexes of catalase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, and Glutathione peroxidase by 22.81%, 6.49%, 8.33%, and 13.67%, respectively, and increased the immune indexes of IgA, IgG, and IgM by 10.44%, 4.85%, and 6.12%, respectively. Moreover, metagenome sequencing data showed that feeding the compound probiotics increased the abundance of beneficial strains (e.g., Lactococcus lactis and Bacillus massionigeriensis) and decreased the abundance of some harmful strains (e.g., Escherichia sp. MOD1-EC5189 and Mycobacterium brisbane) in the gut microbiome of calves, thus contributing to accelerating the construction of healthy gut microbiome in newborn Holstein calves.IMPORTANCEThe unstable gut microbiome and incomplete intestinal function of newborn calves are important factors for the high incidence of early diarrhea. This study presents an effective strategy to improve the overall immunity and gut microbiome in calves and provides new insights into the application of compound probiotics in mammals.

To evaluate the effects of inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum (LPM) on carnivorous fish, juvenile largemouth bass [initial body mass: (5.62±0.13) g] were fed five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing 0 (M0), 200 (M1), 400 (M2), 600 (M3), and 800 (M4) mg/kg LPM for 8 weeks. The results showed that in terms of growth, weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) showed significant second-order polynomial trend with increasing LPM supplementation. WGR and SGR of the M3 group were significantly increased by 14.18% and 5.62%, respectively, compared with the M0 group. Significant linear and second order polynomial trends were observed for feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and protein deposition rate (PDR) with the increase in dietary LPM. FCR was significantly reduced by 8.9% in the M2 group compared to the M0 group. In terms of intestinal health, intestinal amylase, intestinal villi number, length and width showed significant second order polynomial trends with increasing LPM supplementation. Significant linear and second order polynomial trends were observed for intestinal lipase activity, liver crude fat content with increasing dietary LPM. Dietary LPM supplementation of 600 mg/kg significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria. In terms of antioxidant capacity, with the increase of LPM supplemental level, superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde content of serum and liver, and liver Cu/Zn-SOD, Keap-1 and TGF-β1 mRNA expression levels showed significant linear and second-order polynomial trend, and Nrf2 mRNA expression level showed a significant second-order polynomial trend. Overall, the appropriate level of LPM (400–600 mg/kg) promoted the growth performance and feed utilization of largemouth bass by increasing the abundance of intestinal bacteria, improving the activities of digestive enzymes and antioxidant enzymes, and up-regulating the mRNA expressions of genes related to antioxidants.

Anthropogenic changes to the environment expose wildlife to many pollutants. Among these, tropospheric ozone is of global concern and a highly potent pro-oxidant. 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.

This research investigated the impacts of lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) on the digestive function, intestinal mucosal barrier function, inflammatory response, and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) signaling pathway in immunosuppressed mice. 70 mg/kg cyclophosphamide was injected into abdomen for the preparation of immune suppression model. Healthy BALB/c mice served as control for the analysis of the differences in gastrointestinal motility and absorptive capacity, intestinal mucosal barrier function, the phagocytic ability of abdominal macrophages, serum immune factor and inflammatory factor levels, and the activation status of the MLCK signaling pathway after continuous gavage with 100 mg/kg LBP. Results revealed a decrease in d-xylose content, phagocytic rate, index of abdominal macrophages, and spleen index in the serum and urine of model mice compared to those of controls. In addition, levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-6 (interleukin-6), IL-12, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) decreased, while MLCK and myosin light chain (MLC) levels rose (P

The present minireview traces the road leading to discovery of selenium, formerly appointed as a toxic element that became later a bioelement, which is necessary for the proper functioning of living organisms. Selenium occurs in human and animal bodies either in the form of seleno-Lcysteine or its dimeric form seleno-L-cystine as a crucial component of selenoenzymes or selenoproteins. Selenium atom represents an integral component of the enzyme active site of different forms of glutathione peroxidase, which catalyzes conversion of hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides into the water and corresponding alcohols. A revolutionary breakthrough in the field of endocrinology came with the identification of different forms of iodothyronine deiodinase as selenoenzymes, which play an important role in the metabolism of thyroid hormone. The role of selenium in immune function and autoimmune thyropathies that might be associated with selenium deficiency are reported and discussed. This minireview also brings forward novel directions of organoselenium compounds or selenium nanoparticles in cancer therapy. Based on the update of available literature and the author’s experimental experience, the minireview can be devoted to clinicians and medical students.

Background: This study investigates the link between SARS-CoV-2-associated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). LUAD is a prevalent and aggressive lung cancer type. The study aims to identify prognostic lncRNAs and construct a predictive model while shedding light on potential therapeutic targets during the COVID-19 era. Results: Eight SARS-CoV-2-associated lncRNAs with significant prognostic value in LUAD were identified, forming a robust prognostic risk model. The model exhibited strong predictive performance, with high area under the ROC curve (AUC) values at one, three, and five years. Furthermore, the risk score was an independent prognostic factor, correlating with the cancer stage. Notably, differences in immune function, drug sensitivity, and immune checkpoint expression were observed between high- and low-risk groups. Conclusions: This study unveils eight SARS-CoV-2-associated lncRNAs as valuable prognostic markers in LUAD, yielding a reliable prognostic risk model. Additionally, the model's ability to predict patient outcomes and its correlation with cancer stage underscores its clinical utility. The observed variances in immune function, drug sensitivity, and immune checkpoint expression suggest potential avenues for personalized LUAD treatment strategies. Clinicians can utilize the prognostic risk model to predict LUAD patient outcomes, informing treatment decisions. The insights into immune function, drug sensitivity, and immune checkpoints offer opportunities for tailored therapies, potentially enhancing patient outcomes. This study underscores the importance of considering the interplay between SARS-CoV-2-associated factors and cancer biology, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.How to cite: Zhou Q, Yuan T, Xie Z, et al. Unraveling SARS-CoV-2-associated lncRNAs' prognostic significance in lung adenocarcinoma-survival, immunity, and chemotherapy responses. Electron J Biotechnol 2024;67. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejbt.2023.10.001.

Objective: To explore the efficacy of tislelizumab combined with pemetrexed and carboplatin chemotherapy in elderly patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and its effects on serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) levels. Methods: Ninety-four driver gene-negative elderly patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma admitted to the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from July 2021 to December 2022 were selected as the study subjects. They were divided into chemotherapy group (pemetrexed combined with carboplatin, n=48) and tislelizumab group (pemetrexed+carboplatin+tislelizumab, n=46) by the random number table method, and both groups were treated for 4 cycles, with 21 days as a cycle. The clinical efficacy, immune function ［T lymphocyte subsets (CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+］ and serum indicators (IGF-1, IGFBP-3) before and after treatment were recorded in both groups, and the adverse reactions were assessed. Results: The clinical efficacy and objective response rate (58.70% vs 29.17%, χ2=8.329, P＜0.01) in tislelizumab group were significantly higher than those in chemotherapy group. After 4 cycles of treatment, the CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ and IGFBP-3 levels in both groups were significantly increased compared with those before treatment (P＜0.05), and the indicators in tislelizumab group were higher than those in chemotherapy group (P＜0.05); CD8+ and IGF-1 levels were significantly decreased in both groups compared with those before treatment (P＜0.05), and the indicators in tislelizumab group were lower than those in chemotherapy group (P＜0.05). Adverse reactions were mainly grade 1-2 in both groups, and there was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between two groups (P＞0.05). Conclusion: The first-line therapy of tislelizumab combined with platinum-containing dual-drug for elderly advanced lung adenocarcinoma can improve the clinical efficacy, improve the balance of CD4+/CD8+, regulate the expression of serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels. The adverse reactions are controllable, and the treatment regimen is safe and reliable.

ABSTRACT: We evaluated the effects of supplementing bacterial direct-fed microbial (DFM) on performance, apparent total-tract digestibility, rumen fermentation, and immune parameters of lactating dairy cows. One hundred fourteen multiparous Holstein cows (41 ± 7 DIM) were used in a randomized complete block design with an experiment comprising 14 d of a covariate (pre-experimental sample and data collection) and 91 d of an experimental period. Cows were blocked based on energy-corrected milk (ECM) yield during the covariate period and the following treatments were randomly assigned within each block: (1) control (CON), corn silage-based total mixed ration without DFM; (2) PRO-A, basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of Lactobacillus animalis and Propionibacterium freudenreichii at 3 × 109 cfu/d; and 3) PRO-B, basal diet top-dressed with a mixture of L. animalis, P. freudenreichii, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis at 11.8 × 109 cfu/d. Milk yield, dry matter intake (DMI), and body weight were measured daily, while milk samples for component analysis were taken on 2 consecutive days of each week of data collection. Feces, urine, rumen, and blood samples were taken during the covariate period, wk 4, 7, 10, and 13 for estimation of digestibility, N-partitioning, rumen fermentation, plasma nutrient status and immune parameters. Treatments had no effect on DMI and milk yield. Fat-corrected milk (3.5% FCM) and milk fat yield were improved with PRO-B, while milk fat percent and feed efficiency (ECM/DMI) tended to increase with PRO-B compared with PRO-A and CON. Crude fat digestibility was greater with PRO-B compared with CON. Feeding CON and PRO-A resulted in higher total volatile fatty acid concentration relative to PRO-B. Percentage of neutrophils tended to be reduced with PRO-A compared with CON and PRO-B. The mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of anti-CD44 antibody on granulocytes tended to be higher in PRO-B compared with CON. The MFI of anti-CD62L antibody on CD8+ T cells was lower in PRO-A than PRO-B, with PRO-A also showing a tendency to be lower than CON. This study indicates the potential of DFM to improve fat digestibility with consequential improvement in fat corrected milk yield, feed efficiency and milk fat yield by lactating dairy cows. The study findings also indicate that dietary supplementation with DFM may augment immune parameters or activation of immune cells, including granulocytes and T cells; however, the overall effects on immune parameters are inconclusive.

The effects on immune function and egg productivity of 2 commercial lignocellulose supplements with similar insoluble and soluble fibre concentrations and water holding capacities, were determined in Hy-Line Brown hens from 20 weeks-of-age for 8 weeks. Hens were fed 1 of 3 diets (6 pens/diet, 3 hens/pen): Control diet – a commercial layer diet; Diet LC1 - Control diet plus 1.5 g Arbocel RC fine/100 g diet; Diet LC2, Control diet plus 1.5 g OptiCell C5/100 g diet. After 4 weeks, heterophil phagocytosis index and percentage (innate immunity), was greater in LC1 (p

ABSTRACT: The health benefits of nutritional interventions targeting the gut microbiota in early life are transient, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics. This study sought to determine whether supplementation with Bifidobacterium infantis 79 (B79), 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL), or both (B79+2′FL) would lead to persistent health benefits in neonatal BALB/c mice. We found that at postnatal day (PND) 21, Ki67 and MUC2 expression increased, while total serum IgE content decreased in the B79, 2′-FL, and B79+2′-FL groups. The gut microbiota structure and composition altered as well. The levels of propionic acid, sIgA, and IL-10 increased in the 2′-FL group. Moreover, butyric acid content increased, while IL-6, IL-12p40, and tumor necrosis factor-α decreased in the B79+2′-FL group. At PND 56, Ki67 and MUC2 expression increased, whereas the gut microbiota remained altered in all 3 groups. The serum total IgG level increased only in the B79+2′-FL group. In conclusion, our study suggests that early-life supplementation with B79, 2′-FL, or their combination persistently alters the gut microbiome and promotes intestinal development; the immunomodulatory capacity of B79 and 2'-FL occurs during weaning, and their combination may persist into adulthood.

Objective To observe the effect of Sanhuang decoction on the symptoms of Qi deficiency and quality of life in patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and explore its mechanism. Methods From January to December 2018, 30 patients with TNBC in the Breast Surgery of Jiangsu Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine were randomly divided into treatment group (n=15) and control group (n=15). The patients in treatment group received Sanhuang decoction on the basis of basic treatment, with two courses of treatment （3 months was a course）. The patient's symptoms of Qi deficiency, immune indicators (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD4+/CD8+, IL-2, IFN-γ) levels before treatment and 3 and 6 months after treatment, and safety indicators were compared. Results After 6 months of treatment, the symptoms of breath shortness, fatigued spirit, lack of strength, spontaneous sweating, and lazy speech in the treatment group were improved, and the levels of immune indicators IL-2 and IFN-γ were improved, and there were statistically significant differences compared to the control group (P＜0.05). Although there were improvements in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+, but with no statistically significant difference compared to the control group (P＞0.05). Both groups of patients showed no adverse reactions before and after treatment. Conclusion Sanhuang decoction can significantly improve the symptoms of Qi deficiency of patients with TNBC. The mechanism may be related to the improvement of immune level of patients with Sanhuang decoction.

This study aimed to determine the optimal dietary net energy concentration for the reproductive performance, immune function, milk composition, and gut microbiota of primiparous sows during lactation. Forty primiparous lactating sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) with similar body backfat thicknesses were randomly allocated into five treatment groups and fed diets with different dietary net energy concentrations of 10.05 MJ/kg, 10.47 MJ/kg, 10.89 MJ/kg, 11.30 MJ/kg, and 11.72 MJ/kg. The results showed that there were no differences in the performance of piglets, while there was a decrease in the daily feed intake of sows (p = 0.079, linear) as dietary net energy concentration increased. With the increasing dietary net energy concentration, the plasma insulin levels of sows increased (p < 0.01, linear), the plasma glucose levels tended to increase (p = 0.074, linear), and the blood urea nitrogen levels tended to decrease (p = 0.063, linear). Moreover, the plasma total superoxide dismutase activity of sows increased (p < 0.05, quadratic) and the plasma malondialdehyde content of sows decreased (p < 0.05, quadratic) by increasing the dietary net energy concentration. Interestingly, with the increase in dietary net energy concentration, the plasma immunoglobulin M content of sows increased, the milk immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A and the percentage of milk fat increased (p < 0.05, linear), and the milk secretory immunoglobulin A content also increased (p < 0.05, linear and quadratic). The milk immunoglobulins and milk fat content of sows fed with net energy concentration of 11.72 MJ/kg were highest. Moreover, there were significant differences in the α-diversity, β-diversity, and relative abundance of gut microbiota in sows fed with different dietary net energy concentrations. At the phylum level, Spirochaetota and Bacteroidota in the gut microbiota of sows were mainly affected by increasing the dietary net energy concentration. Furthermore, the correlation analysis showed that milk immunoglobulin content had a significant negative correlation with the relative abundance of Bacteroidota, and plasma malondialdehyde content also had a significant negative correlation with the relative abundance of Spirochaetota. In summary, these results suggest that increasing the dietary net energy concentration to 11.72 MJ/kg can increase immunological substances in milk, improve milk quality, and alter the composition of gut microbiota in primiparous lactating sows.

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is an underappreciated global health issue, particularly among pediatric populations. This condition is associated with severe consequences, including skeletal deformities like rickets, impaired immune function, and susceptibility to chronic diseases. Despite ongoing efforts, VDD remains prevalent globally, especially in developing nations and among certain high-risk groups. This paper reviews the latest research on VDD, its causes, clinical manifestations, prevention strategies, and public health recommendations to address this pressing issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of CCHM in drinking water on broilers infected with Salmonella enteritidis. One-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers (n = 300) were randomly assigned to five groups: a control (NC) group, a Salmonella enteritidis challenge (SE) group, an antibiotic (AB) group, a low dose of CCHM (CL) group, and a high dose of CCHM (CH) group. Each group had six replicate cages with ten broilers per cage. The broilers in the NC and SE groups were given normal drinking water. From days 12 to 18, the AB group received water treated with ciprofloxacin lactate injection (1 mL/L), while the CL and CH groups received water containing CCHM at doses of 5 mL/L and 10 mL/L, respectively. Broilers in all groups except the NC group were orally given Salmonella enteritidis daily from days 9 to 11. The experimental period was 28 days. The results showed that, compared with the SE group, the CL and CH groups showed improved growth performance; increased immune organ indices, expressions of ileal occludin and ZO-1 proteins, jejunal and ileal villus heights (except at day 19), and cecal Lactobacillus counts on days 19 and 28 (p < 0.05); and decreased jejunal and ileal lesion scores, ileal interleukin 1β (IL-1β) (except at day 19), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin 6 (IL-6) (except at day 19), secretory immunoglobulin A (slgA) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) (except at day 19) levels, serum D-lactic acid and diamine oxidase (DAO) (except at day 19) contents, jejunal and ileal crypt depths (except at day 19), and cecal Salmonella and Escherichia coli counts on days 19 and 28 (p < 0.05). On day 28, except for the levels of ileal interleukin 10 (IL-10), TNF-α, slgA, and serum D-lactic acid content, there were no differences among the NC, AB, and CL groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, drinking water supplemented with CCHM alleviated the intestinal damage caused by Salmonella enteritidis infection and improved growth performance and cecal microbiota in broilers. The optimal addition rate of CCHM was 5 mL/L.

This study aimed to assess the effects of substituting zinc oxide with terminalia chebula extract (TCE) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune function, and intestinal health in weaned pigs. Initially, 72 weaned Duroc × Landrace × Large White piglets, 28 days old with an initial weight of 7.43 ± 0.14 kg, equally divided by gender, were randomly assigned into three groups, with six replicates and four piglets per replicate. They were fed a basal diet (CON group), a diet containing 2 g/kg zinc oxide (ZnO group), or 2 g/kg TCE (TCE group) for a duration of 28 days. Subsequently, to further confirm the most appropriate levels of TCE in piglets, 96 piglets of the same breeds and age, with an initial weight of 7.42 ± 0.12 kg, also equally divided by gender, were randomly assigned into four groups, each with six replicates and four piglets per replicate, and fed a basal diet (CON group), or diets supplemented with 1 g/kg TCE (LTCE group), 2 g/kg TCE (MTCE group), or 4 g/kg TCE (HTCE group) for a duration of 28 days. The results demonstrated that both TCE and ZnO reduced diarrhea rates (p = 0.001) and enhanced average daily gain (ADG) (p = 0.014) compared to the control group. TCE at 1 g/kg and 4 g/kg reduced the feed to gain ratio (p = 0.050). Dietary supplementing with TCE and ZnO increased serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.020). Various doses of TCE also increased jejunal IgA (p = 0.000) levels and IL-10 expression (p = 0.004), and decreased the levels of TNF-α in both serum (p = 0.043) and jejunal mucosa (p = 0.000). Notably, TCE reduced the crypt depth (CD) of the duodenal (p = 0.007) and increased the villus height (VH) of the ileal (p = 0.045), and with increased dosage, there was a rise in the villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH:CD) in the duodenum (p = 0.000) and jejunum (p = 0.001). Higher abundances of Lactobacillaceae (p = 0.000) and lower levels of Streptococcaceae (p = 0.000) and Peptostreptococcaceae (p = 0.035) in cecal contents were fed the ZnO and TCE pigs compared with CON pigs. Therefore, TCE was firstly presented as being able to replace zinc oxide, improve intestinal morphology, and enhance antioxidant and immune functions, thus safeguarding intestinal mucosal health and promoting piglet growth.

The present study was designed to assess the impact of Alhagi honey small-molecule sugars (AHAS) on Hu lambs. Therefore, in this study, AHAS low-dose (AHAS-L, 200 mg/ kg per day), AHAS medium-dose (AHAS-M, 400 mg/kg per day), and AHAS high-dose (AHAS-H, 800 mg/kg per day) were administered to Hu lambs to investigate the regulatory effects of AHAS on growth performance, oxidation index, immune system enhancement, and intestinal microbiota. The results showed that lambs in the AHAS-H group exhibited significantly increased in average daily weight gain, and growth performance compared to those in the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, AHAS-H supplementation resulted in increased levels of serum antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH-Px, and T-AOC), serum antibodies (IgA, IgG, and IgM), and cytokines (IL-4, 10,17, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, it increased the quantity and richness of beneficial bacteria at such as Sphingomonas, Ralstonia, and Flavobacterium, activating various metabolic pathways and promoting the production of various short-chain fatty acids. In summary, our findings highlight the potential of AHAS-H treatment in enhancing intestinal health of lambs by improving intestinal function, immunity, and related metabolic pathways. Consequently, these results suggest that AHAS holds promising potential as a valuable intervention for optimizing growth performance and intestinal health in lambs.

BackgroundThe etiology of dementias and cognitive decline remain largely unknown. It is widely accepted that inflammation in the central nervous system plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of dementia. However, less is known about the role of the peripheral immune system and interactions with cortisol, though evidence suggests that these, too, may play a role.MethodsUsing data from 1337 participants aged 60+ years from the Sacramento Area Latino Study of Aging (observational cohort) we investigated variation in trajectories of cognitive decline by pathogen IgG and cytokine levels. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the association between baseline Interleukin (IL)-6, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and five persistent pathogens' IgG response and trajectories of cognition over 10 years, and to examine interactions between immune biomarkers and cortisol. Stratified cumulative incidence functions were used to assess the relation between biomarkers and incident dementia. Inverse probability weights accounted for loss-to-follow-up and confounding.ResultsIL-6, TNF-α, and CMV IgG were statistically significantly associated with a higher log of Modified Mini-Mental State Examination errors (IL-6, β=0.0935 (95%CI: 0.055, 0.13), TNF-alpha β= 0.0944 (95%CI: 0.032, 0.157), and CMV, β= 0.0409 (95%CI: 0.013, 0.069)). Furthermore, cortisol interacted with HSV-1 and IL-6, and CRP for both cross-sectional cognitive function and rate of decline. No statistically significant relationship was detected between biomarkers and incidence of dementia.ConclusionsThese findings support the theory that the peripheral immune system may play a role in cognitive decline but not incident dementia. Furthermore, they identify specific markers amenable for intervention for slowing decline.

Zhiqiang Shi,1 Yu Liu,1,2 Xiaodan Chang,3 Yuan Gao,4 Min Hao,1 Shuo Feng,1 Haoyu Dong1 1Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Surgery, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Surgery, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Dermatology, Hohhot Second Hospital, Hohhot, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Anorectal Diseases, Inner Mongolia Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hohhot, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Yu Liu, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Jinshan Development Zone, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-153-3471-2606, Email 15074930848@163.comPurpose: This paper aims to investigate the effect of Tounong San (TNS), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine prescription for suppurative infections, on the immune function.Methods: A suppurative infection model was established by injecting Staphylococcus aureus into subcutaneous tissue on the backs of rats. The expressions of CD68, CD163, CD31 and MPO in abscess tissues, phagocytosis rate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) of neutrophils in blood, phagocytosis function of peritoneal macrophages, and proliferation of blood lymphocytes, expression of IL-1, IL-6, CH50, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IgG, IgM in serum were detected at different time points.Results: On the 3rd day of medication, fibrinogen wrapped around the abscesses was visible in TNS groups, with an increase in new blood vessels and the expression of a large number of macrophages and neutrophils. On the 6th day, the pus of TNS groups diminished, and the number of new blood vessels reached its peak. On the 9th day, the abscesses disappeared in TNS groups, fewer new blood vessels, macrophages, and neutrophils were expressed, and more fibrocytes appeared and filled the original pus cavities. On the 3rd and 9th day of medication, the phagocytic rates of neutrophils and macrophages were significantly improved in TNS group, and the ROS content of neutrophils was increased on the 9th day. TNS has no effect on lymphocyte proliferation in vitro, but it can regulate the secretion of IgG and IgM by lymphocytes. TNS increases the level of IL-1, decreases the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, and regulates the expressions of IFN-γ and CH50 in two ways.Conclusion: TNS can form fibrinogen-wrapped pus to prevent bacterial infection from going deeper, and to improve the phagocytic function of phagocytes, the secretion of lymphocytes, and the defense function of the complement system. Therefore, it is a competitive drug for the treatment of suppurative diseases.Keywords: Tounong San, suppurative infection, immune function, pharmacological mechanism

Yufei Wang,1,2,&ast; Ye Sun,1,2,&ast; Yunxiang Hu,2,3,&ast; Zhaoyang Xiao1,2 1Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian City, Liaoning Province, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Graduates, Dalian Medical University, Dalian City, Liaoning Province, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Orthopedics, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital Affiliated of Dalian Medical University, Dalian City, Liaoning Province, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Zhaoyang Xiao, Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, No. 467 Zhongshan Road, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning, 116027, People’s Republic of China, Email xiaozhaoy2012@163.comObjective: The objective of this study is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the present status, areas of focus, and upcoming developments in the research of anesthetic drugs and their impact on immune function, along with other related research domains.Methods: From January 1, 2008 to June 9, 2023, A thorough exploration of anesthetic drug-related literature pertaining to immune function was carried out through the utilization of the Web of Science. The bibliometric analysis was predominantly executed by means of CiteSpace, GraphPad Prism 8.0, and the acquisition of data regarding the country, institution, author, journal, and keywords associated with each publication.Results: This study analyzed a comprehensive total of 318 publications, consisting of 228 articles and 90 reviews, to determine the publication output of anesthetic drugs on immune function. Notably, China exhibited the highest publication output with (109, 34.28%) articles. Among the institutions analyzed, Harvard University was found to be the most productive with (12, 3.77%) publications. The study findings indicate that Buggy, Donal J (5, 1.57%) and Yuki, Koichi (5, 1.57%) had the highest publication records. Anesthesiology was the most frequently cited journal with a total of (206) citations. The results also revealed that “surgery” was the most frequently used keyword, appearing (48 times), followed by “general anesthesia” (41 times) and “breast cancer” (37 times). The study has identified several current areas of interest, with a particular emphasis on “metastasis”, “inflammation”, “recurrence”, “anesthesia technique”, and “induction”. It is anticipated that forthcoming research endeavors will concentrate on exploring the impacts of isoflurane, sevoflurane, and ketamine on immune function.Conclusion: This study provided a thorough analysis of the research trends and developments in investigating the impact of anesthetic drugs on immune function, incorporating pertinent research and collaborative entities such as authors, institutions, and countries.Keywords: anesthetic drugs, immune function, microenvironment, immunotherapy, targeted therapy

Objective:High ambient temperature beyond the comfort zone causes environmental heat stress (HS). A large number of free radicals are produced as a response to stress. This situation can cause morbidity and mortality in humans and animals. The current study was conducted to determine the effects of HS on antioxidant status, immune response and related factors.Methods:In the study, 18 Sprague Dawley male rats were used as animal materials. Rats were randomly assigned to Thermo-neutral group (TN; untreated at normal ambient temperature of 24±2 °C), Heat-stress 1 group (HS1; 8 hours daily exposure at 30 °C) and Heat-stress 2 group (HS2; 8 hours daily exposure at 35 °C). At the end of HS application (day 14), rats were sacrificed under ether anesthesia and brain, duodenum, heart, liver, thyroid and testis tissues were taken. The biochemical and inflammatory responses of the tissues were analyzed with the ELISA Kit.Results:Compared to the control group; Myeloperoxidase activity was higher in the heart tissue of HS2 group (p

AbstractImmune system plays a significant role in preventing and controlling diseases. Some studies reported the beneficial effects of grapes and their products on immunity. However, their results are controversial. This review aimed to discuss the effects of grapes and their products on immune system and their mechanisms of action. Although various in-vio and in-vitro studies and some human studies suggested that grapes and their products may help to improve the immune system’s function, clinical trials in this area are limited and inconsistent.In conclusions, although, consumption of grapes and their products may help to having a healthy immune syste, further studies particularly human studies are required to clarify the precise effects of them and their mechanisms regarding immune system.

Objective: To investigate the effects of normal group without gavage of LBP and various doses of Lycium barbarum leaves polysaccharides (LBP) on mouse metabolism, antioxidant, immune function, and intestinal microorganisms, C57BL/6 female mice were continuously gavaged with 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg of LBP for 7 weeks. Methods: The ultrastructure of the intestinal mucosa of each group of mice was observed by scanning electron microscopy, and the levels of serum malondialdehyde (MDA), activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) were detected to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of different doses of LBP, the number of T, B and dendritic cells (DC) in the spleen was detected by flow cytometry, fully automated biochemical analyzer for the detection of biochemical indicators in mouse serum, and the changes of intestinal flora in mouse fecal samples were detected by 16S RNA sequencing. Results: There were no variations in the intestinal mucosa's ultrastructure between the groups. The activity of T-SOD (45.27±2.73 U/g) and GSH-Px (1585.76±33.69 U/g) was increased by high-dose LBP, while MDA levels (6.15±1.03 nmol/g) were decreased. The high dose group of LBP could significantly boost the number of T and DC cells, lower serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (161.48±14.98 U/L) and triglycerides (0.30±0.04 mmol/L) and can increase the relative abundance of probiotic genera like Dubosiella, Akkermansia, and Lactobacillus, and others in the gut. Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrated that LBP given orally to mice had no effect on the structure of the intestinal mucosa, while also improving antioxidant capacity, enhancing immune system function, enhancing intestinal microflora, and promoting triglyceride and aspartate aminotransferase biological metabolism in mice. This will provide the theoretical basis for the development and utilization of LBP in food, medicine and health products.

Objective To investigate the relationship of immune function and gut microbiota with radiation enteritis （RE） in patients with cervical cancer. Methods Clinical data of 80 patients with cervical cancer were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were divided into the RE group （n=29） or non-RE group （n=51） according to the incidence of RE within 3 months after radiotherapy. According to the CTCAE5.0 adverse reaction evaluation criteria， patients in the RE group were divided into the low-symptom grade subgroup （grade 1， n=18） and high-symptom grade subgroup （≥ grade 2， n=11）. Plasma T lymphocyte subsets and B lymphocytes were detected by flow cytometry. 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing were used for sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of gut microbiota. Results The levels of CD4+/CD8+ and B lymphocytes in the RE group were significantly lower than those in the non-RE group before and after radiotherapy （all P < 0.05）. In the RE group， the levels of CD4+/CD8+ and B lymphocytes in the low-symptom grade subgroup were significantly higher than those in the high-symptom grade subgroup （all P < 0.05）. The α-diversity of gut microbiota in the non-RE group was higher than that in the RE group before and after radiotherapy （both P < 0.05）. The major bacterial genera with significant differences between two groups were Firmicutes and Synergistetes. The relative abundance of Acidaminococcus and Dialister in the RE group was significantly higher than that in the non-RE group， and the relative abundance of Pyramidobacter was significantly lower than that in the non-RE group before and after radiotherapy （all P < 0.05）. Conclusions CD4+/CD8+， proportion of B lymphocyte and characteristics of gut microbiota are closely correlated with RE in patients with cervical cancer. The decreases in CD4+/CD8+ and proportion of B lymphocyte， and intestinal microecological imbalance during treatment may increase the risk of RE.

Abstract Background Dandelion has a great potential to be used as feed additive. Using microbial fermentation technology to degrade cell walls is conducive to enable better release of bioactive compounds of dandelion. This study intended to explore the effect of fermented dandelion (FD) on production performance, meat quality, immune function, and intestinal microbiota of broiler chickens. One-hundred and twenty 1-day-old male Arbor Acres broiler chickens were randomly allotted into three treatments: CON (basal diet, control), LFD and HFD (basal diet with 500 and 1000 mg/kg FD, respectively), with five replicates of eight birds each. The experiment lasted for 42 days. Results The results showed that birds in HFD group had increased ADG during 1–21 days (P

Abstract Background The poultry industry needs effective antibiotic alternatives to control outbreaks of necrotic enteritis (NE) caused by Clostridium perfringens. Methods The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) on the immune function and gut microbiota of broilers with NE. A total of 288 1-day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two concentrations of dietary MCE supplementation (0 or 350 mg/kg of diet) and two disease challenge statuses (control or NE). Results The results revealed that NE significantly increased the feed conversion rate (FCR), mortality, intestinal lesion score, the levels of IL-1β, IL-17 and IFN-γ/IL-4 in serum and IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa, mRNA levels of TLR2, IFN-γ and pIgR in the jejunum, and Clostridium perfringens concentrations in the cecum. NE significantly decreased the body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), jejunal villus height, V/C, mRNA level of AMPK-α1 in jejunum, IL-4 level in the jejunal mucosa and lactic acid bacteria abundance in the cecum. MCE significantly increased BW, BWG, jejunal villus height, V/C, mRNA levels of occludin, ZO-1 and AMPK-α1 in the jejunum, the levels of IgA and IgG in serum and IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa and mRNA levels of NF-κB, IL-10 and MHC-II in the jejunum. Additionally, MCE significantly decreased the FCR, mortality, intestinal lesion score, jejunal crypt depth, the levels of IFN-γ and IL-17 in serum and IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunal mucosa, Clostridium perfringens concentrations in the cecum, and mRNA levels of IL-17/IL-10 in the jejunum. Moreover, NE significantly increased the abundance of bacteria that are associated with inflammation, obesity and depression (Alistipes, Barnesiella, Intestinimonas, RF39 and UCG-005) and significantly decreased the abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria (Anaerotruncus, Butyricicoccus and Bacteroides) in the cecum. MCE significantly increased the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria (Streptococcus, Ruminococcus_torques_group and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group) and significantly reduced the abundance of bacteria that are associated with inflammation and obesity (Alistipes, Barnesiella and UCG-010) in the cecum. In the cecum of broilers with NE, the relative abundance of Barnesiella and Alistipes was higher and that of Lachnoclostridium and Shuttleworthia was lower. Interestingly, these trends were reversed by the addition of MCE to the diet. Spearman correlation analysis showed that Barnesiella and Alistipes were associated with enhanced intestinal inflammation and inhibited growth performance, whereas Lachnoclostridium and Shuttleworthia were associated with anti-inflammatory effects. Conclusions MCE ameliorated the loss of growth performance in broiler chickens with NE, probably by regulating the intestinal barrier, immune function, and gut microbiota.

Physical activity performance of patients during and after breast cancer treatment is common and is associated with increased toxicity from treatment, shorter time to tumor progression, and decreased survival. Exercise is a potential intervention to maintain or increase physical performance. We conducted a meta-analysis review of the 1-year tailored exercise training, according to cytokine levels and immune function with emphasis on IL-6 in breast cancer patients. A comprehensive search was performed in September 2022 for randomized controlled trials reporting the effects of structured exercise training on breast cancer effect with cytokine levels and immune function with an emphasis on IL-6 during or after cancer treatment. A random-effects meta-analysis was completed using the absolute net difference in the change between intervention and control groups as the outcome measure. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also performed. Data from 18 studies involving 1833 breast cancer survivors were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, there was a significant benefit of exercise training compared with the control (I2 = 71.3%, 95% CI = 38.4% to 77.6%, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed positive effects for resistance training and aerobic training and for exercise training conducted during or after cancer treatment. Compared with usual care, exercise training has a beneficial effect on in women with breast cancer, both during and after cancer treatment. Given the physiological and functional importance of women with breast cancer, oncologists should encourage their patients to engage in regular exercise training, with particular emphasis on resistance training.

BackgroundPost-operative infections are a common cause of morbidity following major surgery. Little is understood about how major surgery perturbs immune function leading to heightened risk of subsequent infection. Through analysis of paired blood samples obtained immediately before and 24 h following surgery, we evaluated changes in circulating immune cell phenotype and function across the first 24 h, to identify early immune changes associated with subsequent infection.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study of adult patients undergoing major elective gastrointestinal, gynecological, or maxillofacial surgery requiring planned admission to the post-anesthetic care unit. Patients were followed up to hospital discharge or death. Outcome data collected included mortality, length of stay, unplanned intensive care unit admission, and post-operative infections (using the standardized endpoints in perioperative medicine–core outcome measures for perioperative and anesthetic care criteria). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated prior to and 24 h following surgery from which cellular immune traits including activation and functional status were assessed by multi-parameter flow cytometry and serum immune analytes compared by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).ResultsForty-eight patients were recruited, 26 (54%) of whom developed a post-operative infection. We observed reduced baseline pre- and post-operative monocyte CXCR4 and CD80 expression (chemokine receptors and co-stimulation markers, respectively) in patients who subsequently developed an infection as well as a profound and selective post-operative increase in CD4+ lymphocyte IL-7 receptor expression in the infection group only. Higher post-operative monocyte count was significantly associated with the development of post-operative infection (false discovery rate < 1%; adjusted p-value = 0.001) with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.84 (p < 0.0001).ConclusionLower monocyte chemotaxis markers, higher post-operative circulating monocyte counts, and reduced co-stimulatory signals are associated with subsequent post-operative infections. Identifying the underlying mechanisms and therapeutics to reverse defects in immune cell function requires further exploration.

IntroductionNon-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.MethodsWe 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.ResultsTwo-hundred twenty-three adults (aged = 18 years) with available pre-treatment 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. There was no statistically significant difference in individuals who were alive after three years in those with baseline IgG