Role of the criteria based on preoperative serological indexes of AFP and GGT in predicting long-term survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation / 器官移植

Objective To evaluate the role of preoperative serological indexes in predicting long-term survival and tumor recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients after liver transplantation, aiming to explore its significance in expanding the Milan criteria. Methods Clinical data of 669 recipients undergoing liver transplantation for HCC were retrospectively analyzed. The optimal cut-off value was calculated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The risk factors affecting the overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates of HCC patients after liver transplantation were identified by univariate and multivariate regression analyses. The correlation between preoperative serum liver enzymes and pathological characteristics in HCC patients was analyzed. The predictive values of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) combined with γ -glutamyl transferase (GGT) and different liver transplant criteria for the survival and recurrence of HCC patients after liver transplantation were compared. Results Exceeded Milan criteria, total tumor diameter (TTD) > 8 cm, AFP > 200 ng/mL and GGT > 84 U/L were the independent risk factors for the overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates of HCC patients after liver transplantation (all P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that preoperative serum GGT level was correlated with TTD, number of tumor, venous invasion, microsatellite lesions, capsular invasion, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) stage, Child-Pugh score and exceeded Milan criteria (all P < 0.05). Milan-AFP-GGT-TTD (M-AGT) criteria were proposed by combining Milan criteria, TTD with serum liver enzyme indexes (AFP and GGT). The 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates of HCC recipients who met the M-AGT criteria (111 cases of exceeded Milan criteria) were significantly higher than those who met Hangzhou criteria (both P < 0.05), whereas had no significant difference from their counterparts who met the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) criteria (both P > 0.05). Conclusions Preoperative serological indexes of AFP and GGT could effectively predict the long-term survival and tumor recurrence of HCC patients after liver transplantation. Establishing the M-AGT criteria based on serological indexes contributes to expanding the Milan criteria, which is convenient and feasible.

ASSOCIATION OF ?-GLUTAMYLTRANSFERASES (GGT) WITH AND WITHOUT HYPERTENSIVE RETINOPATHY IN NORTH INDIAN POPULATION

?-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) has been extensively studied because it mediates the intracellular uptake of extracellular glutathione, a key component of the antioxidant mechanism. The most common modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease is hypertension, and has been found to be associated with serum GGT levels, especially in middle-aged and older adults. Serum GGT is involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension. A case-control study was conducted for 24 months with patients with pre-diagnosed hypertension in the ophthalmology department. Patients were classified into two groups, group 1 with 50 patients previously diagnosed hypertensive patients aged 40 years without hypertensive retinopathy and group 2 (100 patients) with had hypertensive retinopathy. Serum gamma-glutamyl- transferase was measured using the CORAL Colorimetric Assay Kit. Majority of patients were aged between 40 to 59 years and were females. SBP, DBP and MAP significantly increased in group 2 when compared with group 1. Majority of group 2 patients had GGT levels >40 U/l (89.0%), while the majority of group 1 had her GGT levels less than <40 U/L (62.0%). According to our study, GGT was significantly increased in patients with high blood pressure (SBP and DBP) and a family history of hypertension.

Serum Gamma Glutamyltransferase (GGT) in Coronary Artery Disease: Exploring the Asian Indian Connection

Background:There is a need to identify novel markers for CAD, independent of traditional CV risk factors. One of these is gamma?glutamyl transferase (GGT), a marker of increased oxidative stress. Given the high prevalence of CAD in Asian Indians, the link of GGT and CAD in them needs to be studied. Aim: To assess GGT in patients with angiographically documented CAD. Methods and Results: Two hundred patients aged 58.1 ± 9.95 years, 73% males, hypertension 56%, diabetes 40% were included. Mean GGT was 63.6 ± 44.33 (10–269 U/L). The levels of GGT progressively increased in those with single/double or triple?vessel CAD (36.5, 61.5, and 87 U/L, respectively, P < 0.001). Using objective criteria of CAD burden (SYNTAX and Gensini scores), we reaffirmed these findings. GGT in patients with SYNTAX tertiles 0–22, 23–32, and 33 was 33, 62, and 97 U/L, respectively and in Gensini tertiles 0–17.65, 17.66–56.65, ?56.66 was 32, 52, and 88 U/L, respectively, all P < 0.001. SYNTAX score 23 was present in only 23% patients in GGT tertile 1 (<41 U/L), whereas60% and 94% in GGT tertiles 2 and 3 had SYNTAX 23. Significant positive correlation was seen between GGT and SYNTAX (r = 0.634) and Gensini score (r = 0.772). Conclusions: In this study, GGT had an independent correlation with angiographic severity of CAD and SYNTAX and Gensini scores. Although the existing evidence seems biologically plausible, more studies are needed to explore the potential role of this inexpensive marker for predicting disease burden in patients with CAD.

A Cross-sectional study on oxidative stress markers in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and their correlation with blood sugar levels

Background: Among major metabolic disorders of glucose metabolism, diabetes mellitus is the most common one, in which Insulin deficiency and insulin resistance are the common observations. It is a renowned fact that long-standing hyperglycaemia is associated with oxidative stress, caused by an increase in the reactive oxygen species. Adenosine deaminase(ADA) is a purine metabolic enzyme that degrades adenosine. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) maintains antioxidant levels by maintaining reduced glutathione in the cells. Ceruloplasmin is a known acute phase reactant. Aim: 1. To Study and compare the levels of Serum FBS, PPBS, ADA, GGT and Ceruloplasmin in T2DM patients and nondiabetic subjects. 2. To study the correlation between these parameters and blood sugar levels in cases. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done at Subbaiah medical college in Shimoga, taking 50 T2DM patients and 50 controls. Serum levels of fasting blood sugar(FBS), Postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), Adenosine deaminase, Gamma-glutamyl transferase and Ceruloplasmin were estimated. Data were analysed in SPSS software 17 using independent student t test. p < 0.01 was considered significant. Results: Increased levels of ADA, GGT and ceruloplasmin in cases were found, and they were statistically significant. Pearson correlation of these inflammatory markers with FBS and PPBS showed a positive significant correlation.

Evaluation of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) expression in blood neutrophils in beef cattle poisoned by Senecio spp / Avaliação da expressão do gene estimulado por interferon 15 (ISG15) em neutrófilos sanguíneos em bovinos de corte intoxicados por Senecio spp

This study aimed to assess liver damage and interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) blood expression as a consequence of embryonic signaling on maternal recognition of pregnancy in beef cattle presenting natural ingestion of Senecio spp. Epidemiological aspects, as the presence of the plant, associated to gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity can be used as Senecio spp. poisoning diagnosis. Maternal recognition of pregnancy period occurs when the embryo secretes interferon tau (IFNT) to signal its presence to the mother and eventually extend corpus luteum (CL) lifespan. In our study, liver damage was determined by concentration serum GGT, cytological and histopathological examinations. Reproductive status was evaluated by concentration of progesterone, CL diameter and ISG15 mRNA expression on Day 19 following fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Cows were categorized into two groups based on concentration of GGT: Group 1 (GGT<30U/L) and 2 (GGT>31U/L). No difference on body condition scores was observed. All the cows presented liver damage based on cytology and histopathological exams. Cows from the Group 1 had higher pregnancy rate, presenting larger CL diameter and greater concentration of progesterone. Interestingly, ISG15 mRNA expression had no difference between Groups 1 and 2, even presenting difference in pregnancy status. These findings suggest embryonic loss beyond Day 19. It suggests late embryonic mortality may be associated to liver insufficiency. In conclusion, liver injury and/or concentration of GGT does not alter ISG15 expression on blood neutrophils, however cows presenting lower concentration of GGT (<30U/L) had increased pregnancy status. Therefore, the concentration of GGT allow us to screen liver status and foresee a successful pregnancy in beef cattle.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a lesão hepática e a expressão sanguínea do gene estimulado por interferon 15 (ISG15) durante a sinalização embrionária, no reconhecimento materno da gestação, em bovinos de corte apresentando ingestão natural de Senecio spp. Fatores epidemiológicos, como a presença da planta, associados à atividade da gama glutamil transferase (GGT) podem ser utilizados como diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio spp. O reconhecimento materno da gestação ocorre quando o embrião secreta interferon tau (IFNT) para sinalizar sua presença à mãe. Em nosso estudo, a lesão hepática foi determinada pela concentração sérica de GGT, pelos exames citológicos e histopatológicos. O estado reprodutivo foi avaliado pela concentração de progesterona, diâmetro de corpo lúteo (CL) e expressão de mRNA ISG15 no Dia 19 após a inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF). As vacas foram separadas em dois grupos com base na concentração de GGT sanguíneo: Grupo 1 (GGT<30U/L) e Grupo 2 (GGT>31U/L). Não foi observada nenhuma diferença no escore de condição corporal entre os grupos. Na citologia e nos exames histopatológicos todas as vacas apresentaram lesão hepática. As vacas do Grupo 1 apresentaram maior taxa de prenhez, maior diâmetro do CL e maior concentração de progesterona. Diferente do esperado, a expressão do mRNA ISG15 não foi diferente entre os Grupos 1 e 2, mesmo apresentando diferença na taxa de prenhez. Esses achados sugerem perda embrionária após o Ddia 19. Isso demonstra que a mortalidade embrionária tardia pode estar associada à insuficiência hepática. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a lesão hepática e/ou concentração de GGT não altera a expressão de ISG15 nos neutrófilos sanguíneos, porém vacas com menor concentração de GGT (<30U/L) apresentaram maiores taxas de prenhez. Assim, a concentração de GGT nos permite avaliar a saúde hepática e prever uma gestação bem-sucedida em bovinos de corte.(AU)

Evaluation of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) expression in blood neutrophils in beef cattle poisoned by Senecio spp

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to assess liver damage and interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) blood expression as a consequence of embryonic signaling on maternal recognition of pregnancy in beef cattle presenting natural ingestion of Senecio spp. Epidemiological aspects, as the presence of the plant, associated to gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity can be used as Senecio spp. poisoning diagnosis. Maternal recognition of pregnancy period occurs when the embryo secretes interferon tau (IFNT) to signal its presence to the mother and eventually extend corpus luteum (CL) lifespan. In our study, liver damage was determined by concentration serum GGT, cytological and histopathological examinations. Reproductive status was evaluated by concentration of progesterone, CL diameter and ISG15 mRNA expression on Day 19 following fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Cows were categorized into two groups based on concentration of GGT: Group 1 (GGT 30U/L) and 2 (GGT>31U/L). No difference on body condition scores was observed. All the cows presented liver damage based on cytology and histopathological exams. Cows from the Group 1 had higher pregnancy rate, presenting larger CL diameter and greater concentration of progesterone. Interestingly, ISG15 mRNA expression had no difference between Groups 1 and 2, even presenting difference in pregnancy status. These findings suggest embryonic loss beyond Day 19. It suggests late embryonic mortality may be associated to liver insufficiency. In conclusion, liver injury and/or concentration of GGT does not alter ISG15 expression on blood neutrophils, however cows presenting lower concentration of GGT ( 30U/L) had increased pregnancy status. Therefore, the concentration of GGT allow us to screen liver status and foresee a successful pregnancy in beef cattle.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a lesão hepática e a expressão sanguínea do gene estimulado por interferon 15 (ISG15) durante a sinalização embrionária, no reconhecimento materno da gestação, em bovinos de corte apresentando ingestão natural de Senecio spp. Fatores epidemiológicos, como a presença da planta, associados à atividade da gama glutamil transferase (GGT) podem ser utilizados como diagnóstico da intoxicação por Senecio spp. O reconhecimento materno da gestação ocorre quando o embrião secreta interferon tau (IFNT) para sinalizar sua presença à mãe. Em nosso estudo, a lesão hepática foi determinada pela concentração sérica de GGT, pelos exames citológicos e histopatológicos. O estado reprodutivo foi avaliado pela concentração de progesterona, diâmetro de corpo lúteo (CL) e expressão de mRNA ISG15 no Dia 19 após a inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF). As vacas foram separadas em dois grupos com base na concentração de GGT sanguíneo: Grupo 1 (GGT 30U/L) e Grupo 2 (GGT>31U/L). Não foi observada nenhuma diferença no escore de condição corporal entre os grupos. Na citologia e nos exames histopatológicos todas as vacas apresentaram lesão hepática. As vacas do Grupo 1 apresentaram maior taxa de prenhez, maior diâmetro do CL e maior concentração de progesterona. Diferente do esperado, a expressão do mRNA ISG15 não foi diferente entre os Grupos 1 e 2, mesmo apresentando diferença na taxa de prenhez. Esses achados sugerem perda embrionária após o Ddia 19. Isso demonstra que a mortalidade embrionária tardia pode estar associada à insuficiência hepática. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a lesão hepática e/ou concentração de GGT não altera a expressão de ISG15 nos neutrófilos sanguíneos, porém vacas com menor concentração de GGT ( 30U/L) apresentaram maiores taxas de prenhez. Assim, a concentração de GGT nos permite avaliar a saúde hepática e prever uma gestação bem-sucedida em bovinos de corte.

Genotypes of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV1/EBV2) in individuals with infectious mononucleosis in the metropolitan area of Belém, Brazil, between 2005 and 2016

Abstract Two types of Epstein Barr virus (EBV1/EBV2) have been shown to infect humans. Although their genomes are similar, the regions containing the EBNA genes differ. This study aimed to characterize the EBV genotypes of infectious mononucleosis (IM) cases in the metropolitan region of Belém, Brazil, from 2005 to 2016. A total of 8295 suspected cases with symptoms/signs of IM were investigated by infectious disease physicians at Evandro Chagas Institute, Health Care Service, from January 2005 to December 2016. Out of the total, 1645 (19.8%) samples had positive results for EBV by enzyme immunoassay and 251 (15.3%) were submitted to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique, using the EBNA3C region, in order to determine the type of EBV. Biochemical testing involving aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transferase were also performed. EBV type was identified by PCR in 30.3% (76/251) of individuals; of those, 71.1% (54/76) were classified as EBV1, 17.1% (13/76) as EBV2, and 11.8% (9/76) as EBV1+EBV2. The main symptoms/signs observed with EBV1 infection were cervical lymphadenopathy (64.8%, 35/54), fever (63%, 34/54), headache (20.4%, 11/54), arthralgia (20.4%, 11/54), and exanthema (18.5%, 10/54). EBV2 infection was detected in all but two age groups, with an average age of 24 years. The most common signs/symptoms of EBV2 were fever (76.9%, 10/13), average duration of 18 days, and lymphadenopathy (69.2%, 9/13). In contrast, EBV1+EBV2 coinfections were more frequent in those aged five years or less (20.0%, 2/10). The symptoms of EBV1+EBV2 coinfection included fever (66.7%, 6/9), and cervical lymphadenopathy and headache (33.3%, 3/9) each. The mean values of hepatic enzymes according to type of EBV was significantly different (p<0.05) in those EBV1 infected over 14 years of age. Thus, this pioneering study, using molecular methods, identified the EBV genotypes in 30.3% of the samples, with circulation of EBV1, EBV2, and EBV1+EBV2 co-infection in cases of infectious mononucleosis in the northern region of Brazil.

Evaluation of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase and highly sensitive C-reactive protein as biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with good and poor glycemic control

Background: Diabetes mellitus comprises a group of common metabolic disorders which share common phenotype of hyperglycaemia. Oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with poor glycaemic control and further pathogenesis and complications of diabetes mellitus. This study investigated for correlation of good and poor glycaemic control with these factors.Methods: Subjects selected for the study were divide into three groups, group I control (n=35), group II type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with good glycaemic control (n=35) and group III type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with poor glycaemic control (n=35). Patients complete blood count, random blood sugar, HbA1c, HsCRP and GGT were investigated. These parameters were statistically analysed for correlation between HbA1c with GGT and HbA1c with hsCRP.Results: The mean HbA1c in group I, II and III were found to be 5.17%, 6.54% and 9.23% respectively. It was statistically significant (p=0.01), as according to the criteria defined for study recruitment. Furthermore, mean GGT and hsCRP levels were evaluated; a statistically significant difference in mean GGT levels as well as hsCRP of three different groups were obtained with a p value of 0.02. Correlation between HbA1c and hsCRP was found to positive (R2=0.17, p=0.03). When GGT was compared with HbA1c across the groups, there was a statistically significant correlation (R2= 0.09, p=0.03).Conclusions: Present study established a positive correlation between HbA1c and GGT, HbA1c and hsCRP, indicating increasing oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with poor glycaemic control.

Relationship Between The Ejection Fraction In Echocardiography With Liver Function In Heart Failure Patients

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome, which is based on the inability of the heart to pump blood throughout the body adequately, due to structural and functional disorders of the heart. The most common cause of left ventricular myocardial dysfunction. Heart failure is described by the measurement of left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LV). Heart failure with decreased ejection fraction (HFrEF) is characterized by LVEF ≤40%; preserved EF (HFpEF) is characterized by LVEF ≥50% assessed by dopplerococardiography. In heart failure, the heart cannot supply oxygen adequately, so it can cause damage to other organ systems, such as the liver. It is important to identify from the outset of liver biochemical abnormalities in patients with heart failure, because the examination is useful in assessing the severity and duration of heart failure. Aim:To determine the relationship between ejection fraction on echocardiography and liver function in heart failure patients. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the H. Adam Malik General Hospital in Medan in June 2017 until the research sample was fullled. Heart failure patients performed echocardiography and blood tests: SGOT, SGPT, Bilirubin, ALP, GGT, Albumin. Data analysis (Chisquare / sher exact test) using SPSS. Result: Subjects were male 36 patients (69.2%), and women 16 patients (30.8%), with an average age of 52.08 ± 10.52 years. The frequency of increasing total bilirubin and GGT is greater than for other liver functions. Liver function characteristics of SGOT, SGPT, total bilirubin, ALP, and GGThad a higher mean of ejection fraction <= 40% compared to ejection fraction> 40%. With the analysis of the Fisher Exact test p value <0.05 for the relationship of Ejection Fraction to total bilirubin (p = 0.001) and GGT(p = 0.016). Conclusion:There is a relationship between ejection fraction and liver function and what is meaningful is total bilirubin with GGT.

Comparative analysis on detection results of 4 items of liver enzymology in 11 clinical laboratories of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps / 国际检验医学杂志

Objective To understand the comparability of the detection results of four items (ALT ,AST , GGT ,ALP) of liver enzymology in 11 clinical laboratories in Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) and offer reference for improving mutual recognition of the results .Methods Eleven clinical labora-tories of XPCC organized the result comparability tests of 4 items of liver enzymology twice in 2017 ,and the samples with 5 batches were completed in each comparability test .One set of detection system in each labora-tory was used as comparability system according to comparability scheme .The detection results were analyzed through Robust Z Score and the evaluation criterion was :|Z|≤2 "satisfied";2< |Z|<3"warning";|Z|≥3 "not satisfied".Results The detection results of all 10 batch samples in 4 clinical laboratories showed |Z|≤2 in 2 comparability tests .In the first comparability test ,the detection results of 5 batch samples for 4 items were |Z|≤2 in 5 laboratories .In the second comparability test ,the detection results of 5 batch samples for 4 i-tems were |Z|≤2 in 8 laboratories ,but the ALT results of 5 batch samples in 1 laboratory showed positive deviation(Z≥3)and the GGT results of 5 batch samples in the other laboratory showed negative deviation (Z≤ -3) .Conclusion The 11 clinical laboratories in XPCC should continuously improve quality management system and make sure that the mutual recognition of the detection results of 4 items of liver enzymology is effective .

Suplementação com imunoestimulante em cadelas com neoplasia mamária maligna: aspectos hematológicos e bioquímicos / Immunostimulant supplementation for bitches with malignant mammary tumor: hematological and biochemical aspects

Os alimentos funcionais têm sido empregados como adjuvantes no tratamento do câncer de mama. Neste estudo avaliaram-se as respostas hematológicas e bioquímicas clínicas à ação de um alimento funcional administrado a cadelas com diagnóstico de neoplasia mamária maligna. Após a mastectomia, 16 cadelas foram divididas em dois grupos: suplementadas (S) e não suplementadas (NS) com um composto comercial contendo Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mananoligossacarídeos e nutracêuticos. Ambos grupos receberam tratamento quimioterápico com doxorrubicina e carboplatina, alternadamente, em intervalos de 21 dias, por oito sessões, totalizando 168 dias de tratamento. As avaliações clínicas e laboratoriais foram realizadas nos momentos de aplicação do tratamento. Os resultados dos perfis hematológico (hemograma, leucograma e plaquetograma) e bioquímico sérico (ureia, creatinina, albumina, bilirrubina total e direta, alanina aminotransferase, fosfatase alcalina e gama glutamiltransferase - GGT) foram analisados pelo teste de Kruskall Wallis. No grupo S comprovou-se elevação do peso corporal e não foram observados transtornos gastrointestinais ou outros sinais de alteração clínica ao longo do tratamento. Diferentemente no grupo NS, ocorreu perda de peso e alterações clínicas, como diarreia e vômito. No quadro hematológico, constatou-se leucopenia por linfopenia no grupo de cadelas NS e preservação do valores dentro dos parâmetros considerados normais para a espécie no grupo S. Dentre todas as variáveis da bioquímica clínica, constatou-se apenas a elevação da atividade sérica da GGT nos animais do grupo NS, sem alterações no grupo S. Conclui-se que cadelas com neoplasia mamária quando suplementadas com com alimento funcional imunoestimulante apresentam melhor condição clínica, hematológica e dos níveis bioquímicos, particularmente da GGT.(AU)

Functional foods have been used as adjuvant for breast cancer treatment of bitches. The aim of the present study was to evaluate hematological and clinical biochemistry response in female dogs diagnosed with malignant mammary tumors and supplemented with functional food. After the mastectomy, 16 bitches were divided into two groups: supplemented (S) and none supplemented (NS) with a commercial product of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mannanoligosaccharides and nutraceuticals. Chemotherapy with doxorubicin and carboplatin was performed alternately at intervals of 21 days for eight sessions during 168 days of treatment. Clinical and laboratorial assessments was made at the treatment moments. The results of the hemogram (erythrogram, leukogram and platelet count) and serum biochemistry (urea, creatinine, albumin, total and direct bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyltransferase - GGT) were analyzed by Kruskal Wallis test. In the S group, increase body weight was observed, but gastrointestinal disorders or other clinical disorders were not detected over the treatment. In the NS group, loss of weight and clinical disorders were observed. All hematology parameters were normal in the S group; however, leukopenia and lymphopenia were detected in the bitches of the NS group. Among all the clinical biochemistry parameters tested, only serum GGT was increased in the NS group, with no changes in the S group. In conclusion, female dogs with mammary tumor supplemented with immunostimulant functional food have better clinical condition, they demonstrate normal levels of hematological and biochemical exams, particularly GGT.(AU)

Renal injury in female dogs with pyometra / Injúria renal em cadelas com piometra

ABSTRACT: Pyometra is a common disease in intact female dogs and can cause glomerulopathy and tubular injury. This study aimed to evaluate kidney injury in female dogs with pyometra, as well as progression of the injury during treatment and the markers of this condition. This study analyzed 20 intact female dogs with both clinical and sonographic diagnosis of pyometra. Dogs were treated with intravenous fluids and antibiotics, and an ovariohysterectomy was performed. The following parameters were assessed at eight separate time points: blood pressure; serum creatinine, phosphorus, and urea levels; urinalysis and urinary biochemical parameters [urinary gamma-glutamyl transferase (uGGT) and urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR)]; glomerular filtration rate (GFR); and urine output. All dogs showed some degree of kidney injury at the time of pyometra diagnosis. This was transient in most animals, resolving with treatment of the pyometra. Measurement of uGGT and UPCR identified renal parenchymal injury, helping to determine the prognosis of the animals analyzed in the present study.

RESUMO: A piometra é afecção frequente em cadelas e pode causar glomerulopatias e lesões tubulares. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar injúria renal em cadelas com piometra, sua progressão ao longo do tratamento e o uso de marcadores dessa alteração. Participaram 20 cadelas com diagnóstico clínico e ultrassonográfico de piometra, submetidas à fluidoterapia, antibioticoterapia e ovariohisterectomia. Foram avaliados pressão arterial, concentração sérica de creatinina, fósforo e ureia; urinálise e bioquímica urinária (gama-glutamiltransferase urinária e razão proteína/creatinina urinárias), taxa de filtração glomerular e débito urinário, em oito tempos. Todas as cadelas apresentaram algum grau de injúria renal no momento do diagnóstico da piometra, sendo transitória na maioria dos animais após o tratamento. O uso de marcadores de injúria renal identificou lesão de parênquima renal, contribuindo com o prognóstico dos animais estudados.

Observation on serumγ-glutamyl transpeptidase levels of patients with sub-clinical schistosomiasis before and after pathogen treatment / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To observe the changes of serumγ?glutamyl transpeptidase(GGT)levels before and after the patho?gen treatment in patients with subclinical schistosomiasis,and explore its clinical value in the diagnosis and treatment of sub?clinical schistosomiasis. Methods Totally 109 patients with subclinical schistosomiasis,who were found in the endemic inves?tigation of schistosomiasis in Ezhou City,were selected as the investigation subjects,and then they were treated with praziquan?tel. The serum GGT levels of the subjects before and after the treatment were detected and compared. Results Before the treat?ment,the average value of the GGT levels of the 109 patients was(48.1 ± 45.9)IU/L,among which,the GGT levels of 69 cases (63.3%)were normal,and the levels of 40 cases(36.7%)were increased. After the treatment,the average GGT level of the pa?tients was(32.1 ± 23.4)IU/L,which decreased by 33.3%comparing with that before the treatment,and the difference had a statistical significance(U=2.17,P=0.01). The GGT levels of 65 patients decreased in different degrees. Among the 40 pa?tients whose GGT levels had increased before the treatment,the GGT levels of 31 ones returned to the normal. Conclusion The GGT level detection can accurately reflect the liver function in the patients with subclinical schistosomiasis ,and also it has certain clinical application value to judge the liver function damage and recovery of the patients before and after the pathogen treatment.

Pharmacological Study on Periplaneta Americana against Alcohol-induced Liver Injury / 世界科学技术-中医药现代化

This study was aimed to explore the effect of Periplaneta Americana against alcohol-induced liver injury in mice, in order to provide a theoretical basis for the industrial production of P. Americana. Kunming mice were randomly divided into six groups, which were the normal group, model group, positive group, high-, middle-, low-dose of P. Americana groups. Intragastric administration of Tiopronin Enteric-coated Tablets 100 mg·kg-1 was given to the positive group. Intragastric administrations of whole powder of medicine were given to the high-, middle-, low-dose groups with the dosage of 6.667, 3.333, 1.667 g·kg-1, respectively. The drugs were given daily for 10 con-secutive days. After 3h of the 10th day drug administration, intragastric administration of distilled water was given to the normal group, while 14mL·kg-1 of 56℃ Red Star Liquor was given to other groups. No food was given but water for 12h. Blood was collected from the orbit. The ALT, AST and GGT in blood serum of mice were measured. The liver was dissected and liver coefficient was calculated. Histopathological examination was given on liver tissues. The results showed that compared with the normal group, the level of ALT, AST in blood serum of the model group had obvious enhanced (P< 0.01), the level of GGT had obvious enhanced (P< 0.05). Compared with the model group, the level of GGT, AST of the high-, middle-dose group had obvious enhanced (P< 0.05), the level of ALT activity had obvious enhanced (P< 0.01). There were severe liver histopathological damages in mice of the high-, middle-, low-dose group. It was concluded that P. Americana had some side effects in the treatment of alcohol-induced liver injury.

Evaluation of serum lactate dehydrogenase and gamma glutamyl transferase in preeclamptic pregnancy and its comparison with normal pregnancy in third trimester.

Background: Preeclampsia affects about 5-8% of all pregnancies and is a major cause of maternal, fetal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Evidences prove that endothelial cell and altered endothelial cell function play an important role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Therefore serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) are the useful biochemical markers reflecting the severity of the occurrence of preeclampsia. The objective was to determine serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and serum gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) as biochemical markers in preeclamptic pregnant women and its comparison with normal pregnant women in third trimester. Methods: This is the case-control hospital based study carried in the Department of Biochemistry M.G.M. Medical College and associated M.Y. Hospital. Indore (M.P.). Normal pregnant women (n=48), women with preeclampsia (n=53) were included in the study. Both the groups were in their third trimester and of same age and same gestational age. Preeclamptic group was further divided into two subgroups mild (n=36) and severe (n=17) preeclampsia. Results: There were no significant differences among the three groups in age and body mass index but significantly higher differences in gestational age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed. Higher values of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were found in mild and severe preeclamptic women than those of normal pregnant women in third trimester but the values of serum LDH was significantly elevated in severe preeclamptic women when comparison was done between mild and severe preeclamptic women. Serum GGT was significantly higher among all the groups. Conclusion: Elevated levels of serum LDH and serum GGT indicates the tissue damage related to endothelial vascular damage and are the main cause of the occurrence of preeclampsia.

The Association of Metabolic Syndrome and Serum gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase: A 4-Year Cohort Study of 3,698 Korean Male Workers

The aim of the present study was to examine the causal-effect of baseline (year 2004) serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) level with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in year 2008. The study was comprised of male workers who underwent a regular health check-up in 2004 and 2008. MS was diagnosed according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) criteria. In the subgroup analysis according to serum GGT level, triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and total cholesterol (TC) showed a significant increasing tendency (p < 0.001). In addition, unexpectedly results were consistent in non-drinkers (p < 0.001). GGT level was significantly associated with risk factors of MS (waist circumference [WC]: r = 0.18, p < 0.001; fasting blood glucose [FBG]: r = 0.16, p < 0.001; TG: r = 0.29, p < 0.001). As the secondary biomarker, homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity (HOMA-S) and TC had significant correlations with GGT level (HOMA-S: r = -0.14, p < 0.001; TC: r = 0.21, p < 0.001). In the 4-year prospective analysis, the predictive effect of baseline GGT concentrations on change in MS status was evaluated using Cox proportional model. Elevated GGT concentrations measured in 2004 were associated with the risk of MS incidence after 4 years (GGT: HR 1.7 [95% CI: 1.2-2.3]) (p < 0.01). This observation indicates that an elevated GGT level could be suggested as a subsidiary marker for MS and partially reflects dyslipidemia as a component of MS.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Activity of Ethanol Extract of Cynoglossum zeylanicum (Vahl ex Hornem) Thurnb ex Lehm in CCl4 Treated Rats.

This study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect of ethanol extract of whole plant of Cynoglossum zeylanicum on CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Activities of liver marker enzymes, SGOT, SGPT and ALP, total protein, albumin, globulin, total, conjugated and unconjugated bilirubins at an oral dose of ethanol extract of Cynoglossum zeylanicum(50, 100 and150mg/kg) showed a significant hepatoprotective effect. Regarding antioxidant activity, ethanol extract of Cynoglossum zeylanicum exhibited a significant effect showing increasing levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH and GRD by reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels.

Serum γ - glutamyltransferase activity as an indicator of chronic liver injury in cattle with no clinical signs / γ - glutamiltransferase como indicador de lesão hepática crônica em bovinos sem sinais clínicos

This study aimed to determine the power of the serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyltransferasase (GGT) activities and of the albumin and cholesterol dosages for detecting hepatic histopathological injuries. A total of 220 healthy male Nelore cattle that had been extensively bred were evaluated. Blood and liver samples were collected on the day of slaughter for biochemical and histopathological tests. The results showed that the sensitivity to AST, GGT, albumin, and cholesterol tests were respectively 22.4%, 22.4%, 36%, and 37.2%.

Determinou-se a capacidade da dosagem das atividades séricas da aspartato aminotransferase (AST) e gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT) e das dosagens de albumina e de colesterol para a detecção de lesões histopatológicas hepáticas. Foram avaliados 220 bovinos, machos da raça Nelore, criados de forma extensiva. Amostras de sangue e de fígado foram coletadas para a realização dos testes histopatológicos e bioquímicos no dia do abate. Os resultados mostraram que a sensibilidade dos testes de AST, GGT, albumina e colesterol foram, respectivamente, de 22,4%, 22,4%, 36%, e 37,2%. A especificidade dos testes AST, GGT, albumina e colesterol foram, respectivamente, de 78,8%, 90,4%, 75,6% e 68,3%.

A study of pericardial fluid enzymes activities after death and their correlation with post-mortem interval.

The estimation of time since death at the time of autopsy has been and remains to be one of the challenges to the Forensic Pathologist. .A prospective study was undertaken in SMS Hospital, Jaipur on activity of Pericardial Fluid enzymes after death in deceased. A total of 50 study cases were randomly selected after screening. The pericardial fluid was examined biochemically for enzyme activity of Amylase, Creatine Kinase (CK), Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) enzymes by photoelectric colorimetry method. The enzyme activity levels so obtained were charted and statistically studied and graphical records obtained against known post-mortem interval. The data thus obtained was analysed with a view to ascertain whether such assays could be of any help to estimate time since death routinely. In this study we observed a positive correlation of all the four enzymes with the time elapsed after death of which rise in CK was found to be statistically significant.

Mean corpuscular volume and biochemical markers of alcoholism - A comparative study.

Alcoholism is a serious health issue with major socioeconomic consequences. Significant morbidity is related to chronic alcohol use, and alcoholics seek advice only when complications of drinking set in. The diagnosis is often based on patients self-reporting of alcohol consumption, which is unreliable and requires high degree of clinical suspicion. However, if alcohol problems are recognized at an early stage, the physician may be able to prevent their further development and progression. The present study compares the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) with other traditional biochemical markers in alcohol abuse patients and healthy controls. It is a prospective study, and 40 cases and 30 controls were evaluated for biochemical parameters over a period of one year. The study revealed MCV to be possessing 87.5% sensitivity, 83.33% specificity, 87.5% of positive predictive value, 48.39% of negative predictive value and 54.29% of diagnostic accuracy, which makes it a reliable marker. The mean gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations in alcohol dependent subjects were higher as compared to controls. Though clinical histories and questionnaires are the commonest initial means of detection of alcohol abuse, laboratory markers such as MCV should be used for confirming the diagnosis of alcohol abuse. They are also helpful in follow-up of patients undergoing treatment, and monitoring of abstinence