Clinical response to nonsurgical periodontal therapy is associated with decreased serum leukocyte count and uric acid levels in kidney transplant recipients.

OBJECTIVE: This study sought to investigate the relationship between clinical response to nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) and serum changes in leukocyte count, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin, hematocrit, creatinine, and uric acid in kidney transplant recipients (KTR). METHODOLOGY: A prospective study was performed on 20 KTRs. Periodontal and serum data were collected before and 90 days after NSPT, and delta values (Δ = after NSPT - before) were calculated. Periodontal assessment included periodontal probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP). Patients were classified based on the presence of periodontitis and then categorized into stages. RESULTS: Patients showed a reduction in the percentage of sites with PPD≥3mm, PPD≥4 mm and BOP, after NSPT. There was a direct correlation between the deltas of leukocyte count and CAL ≥3 mm (r=0.645, P=0.002) and BOP (r=0.663, P=0.001), and the deltas of uric acid and CAL ≥3 mm (r=0.562, P=0.010). CONCLUSION: A good clinical response to NSPT may affect the reduction of serum levels of leukocyte count and uric acid, suggesting a beneficial effect on systemic health in KTR.

Performance in the Six-Minute Walking Test Does Not Discriminate Excessive Erythrocytosis Patients in a Severe Hypoxic Environment.

BACKGROUND: Chronic exposure to severe hypoxia causes an increase in hematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), which can lead to excessive erythrocytosis (EE) and impact physical performance. This work aims to determine the differences in the six-minute walking test (6MWT) between EE and healthy subjects residing at more than 5000 m. METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional study was performed on 71 men (36 healthy and 25 suffering from EE) living in La Rinconada, Peru (5100 m). Basal levels of [Hb] and Hct were obtained. All the subjects performed the 6MWT, and distance reached, vital signs, dyspnea, and fatigue (Borg scale) at the end of the test were recorded. RESULTS: The average [Hb] and Hct levels in the control group were 18.7 ± 1.2 g/dL and 60.4 ± 7.1%, respectively, contrasting with EE subjects, who showed 23.4 ± 1.6 g/dL and 73.6 ± 5.9% (p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were observed in BMI or other anthropometric parameters. At the end of the 6MWT, the distance traveled and vital constants were similar between both groups, except for arterial oxygen saturation, which was consistently lower in subjects with EE throughout the test. CONCLUSION: EE does not significantly affect 6MWT performance at high altitudes, nor the hemodynamic control during moderate aerobic exercise of subjects who live permanently in a severely hypoxic environment.

Hematological and plasma biochemical profile of two species of freshwater stingrays from the Amazon.

The evaluation of hematological and plasma biochemical parameters and the subsequent establishment of reference intervals facilitate the diagnosis of the health status of animals. This work aimed to determine the blood parameters of wild specimens of the stingrays Potamotrygon motoro and Potamotrygon orbignyi from the lower Solimões River region, Amazonas, Brazil. One hundred forty-one stingrays were captured, 92 specimens of P. motoro and 49 of P. orbignyi, of both sexes and at different stages of development. No effect of sex was observed on the blood parameters of juvenile animals for both species. P. motoro neonates presented a distinct hematological and biochemical profile, with significantly lower hematocrit values, hemoglobina, number of erythrocytes, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, monocytes, plasma glucose, total proteins, albumin, and globulin. On the other hand, total cholesterol and urea levels were significantly higher in this same group compared to juveniles of the same species. Comparison between species revealed lower values of triglycerides and total cholesterol in P. orbignyi of both sexes. The results obtained are pioneering for these Amazonian species in white water environments and will serve as a basis for evaluating the health status of wild stingrays. Thus, from the analysis of the blood of the P. motoro and P. orbignyi stingrays, it was possible to observe good health conditions.

Evaluation of different supportive treatments during packed cell volume replacement in calves naturally infected with tick fever agents.

This study evaluated the effect of different supportive treatments on PCV replacement of dairy calves naturally infected with tick fever (TF) agents, and treated with diminazene and enrofloxacin. Five products were tested as supportive treatments in four experiments. In these experiments, we used Girolando female calves (Gyr × Holstein, genetic ratio of 15/16 and 31/32 Holstein) four to six months old, raised in pasture, naturally infected with TF agents, and infested with R. microplus. Supportive treatment was administered once on day 0 of the study concurrently with specific treatment targeting TF agents. The animals were observed on days 0, 3, and 7. Oral or intravenous administration of a vitamin complex and mineral salts enhanced the increase in PCV and biochemical analytes present in the serum of calves naturally infected with TF agents. No positive effect on PCV values was observed with the administration of (1) invigorating tonic: calcium, casein-peptides and vitamin B12, (2) iron-based stimulant tonic and (3) metabolic tonic: vitamin A, vitamin D, and a fraction of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Supplementation by injection with Type III iron resulted in increased hemoglobin and PCV in treated animals. However, these results did not occur with iron citrate. Therefore, more studies with Type III iron need to be performed. Supportive treatment conferred no advantage in animals with no history of reduced PCV.

Umbilical Cord Blood as an Alternative to Neonatal Blood for Complete Blood Count: A Comparison Study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess concordance between umbilical cord blood (UCB) and neonatal blood (NB) laboratory test results at birth. STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective study considered very preterm neonates (<32 weeks' gestational age) admitted to a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit from 2012 to 2023. Inclusion criteria required neonates with a complete blood count measured in both UCB and NB drawn within 2 hours after birth. Median hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) concentrations were compared between UCB (venous samples) and NB (venous, arterial, or capillary samples). RESULTS: A total of 432 neonates with paired UCB and NB values were included in the study. Hb concentration in UCB was 14.7 g/dL (IQR 13.5-16.1 g/dL) compared with 14.8 g/dL (IQR 12.6-19.3 g/dL) in venous NB samples, 13.9 g/dL (IQR 12.9-15.3 g/dL) in arterial NB and 18.7 g/dL (IQR 16.6-20.8 g/dL) in capillary NB. The regression equation showed a correction factor of 1.08 for converting Hb values from UCB to venous NB. Median Hct concentration in UCB was 0.45 L/L (IQR: 0.41-0.49 L/L) compared with 0.48 L/L (IQR 0.43-0.54 L/L) in venous NB, 0.42 L/L (IQR 0.38-0.45 L/L) in arterial NB and 0.57 L/L, (IQR 0.51-0.63 L/L) in capillary NB. CONCLUSIONS: Hb and Hct concentrations measured in UCB are similar to those measured in venous blood in very preterm infants and are valid alternatives for NB tests at birth. Hb and Hct concentrations in arterial and capillary NB are respectively lower and higher compared with UCB measurements.

Comparison of the blood biochemical values of foraging and nesting Olive Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) from Sinaloa, Mexico.

Our study aimed to establish reference values for nesting females and compare them with those previously reported to understand olive ridley turtles' health status and contribute to long-term health assessment and monitoring in foraging and nesting areas from the state of Sinaloa, Mexico. In August and September 2018, morphometric data and biochemical profiles were collected from 33 nesting olive ridley turtles from Ceuta Beach Sanctuary (CBS) and 14 foraging female turtles captured at the foraging site, Navachiste Marine Area (NMA). Nesting turtles sampled had greater CCL (65.86 ± 1.70 cm) than those from the foraging area (61.54 ± 1.22) (p < 0.05). Regarding biochemical profiles, post-nesting turtles had higher packed cell volume (PCV), albumin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol, triglycerides, and calcium than turtles from the foraging area (p < 0.05). Phosphorus levels were higher in foraging turtles than in nesting turtles (p = 0.001), while the remaining parameters showed no significant differences. The present study describes for the first time the blood biochemical values of nesting turtles from the Ceuta Beach Sanctuary in southern Sinaloa, Mexico, similar to those of foraging turtles from the north of the state. The significant differences observed between the two analysis groups may be due to the energy reserves and reproductive and nesting activity of the nesting turtles, so the blood biochemistry values described in this study can be used as a standard reference blood value for the olive ridley turtle population of Sinaloa, Mexico.

Are coagulation profiles in Andean highlanders with excessive erythrocytosis favouring hypercoagulability?

Chronic mountain sickness is a maladaptive syndrome that affects individuals living permanently at high altitude and is characterized primarily by excessive erythrocytosis (EE). Recent results concerning the impact of EE in Andean highlanders on clotting and the possible promotion of hypercoagulability, which can lead to thrombosis, were contradictory. We assessed the coagulation profiles of Andeans highlanders with and without excessive erythrocytosis (EE+ and EE-). Blood samples were collected from 30 EE+ and 15 EE- in La Rinconada (Peru, 5100-5300 m a.s.l.), with special attention given to the sampling pre-analytical variables. Rotational thromboelastometry tests were performed at both native and normalized (40%) haematocrit using autologous platelet-poor plasma. Thrombin generation, dosages of clotting factors and inhibitors were measured in plasma samples. Data were compared between groups and with measurements performed at native haematocrit in 10 lowlanders (LL) at sea level. At native haematocrit, in all rotational thromboelastometry assays, EE+ exhibited hypocoagulable profiles (prolonged clotting time and weaker clot strength) compared with EE- and LL (all P < 0.01). At normalized haematocrit, clotting times were normalized in most individuals. Conversely, maximal clot firmness was normalized only in FIBTEM and not in EXTEM/INTEM assays, suggesting abnormal platelet activity. Thrombin generation, levels of plasma clotting factors and inhibitors, and standard coagulation assays were mostly normal in all groups. No highlanders reported a history of venous thromboembolism based on the dedicated survey. Collectively, these results indicate that EE+ do not present a hypercoagulable profile potentially favouring thrombosis.

[Response to comment on the article "Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment"]. / Response to comment on the article "Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment".

Hemoglobin and hematocrit are parameters widely used. They can be obtained from an automated hematology analyzer or from an arterial blood gas analyzer. Its variability is shown in the article "Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment." Clinical and statistical information requested is extended for a better understanding of the article and its conclusions. It is suggested to carry out an analysis of variability in parameters and laboratory equipment.

La hemoglobina y el hematocrito son parámetros de amplio uso. Pueden ser obtenidos de un analizador automatizado de hematología o de un analizador de gases arteriales. Su variabilidad se muestra en el artículo "Variabilidad de la hemoglobina y hematocrito determinados en equipo de gases sanguíneos". Se amplía la información clínica y estadística solicitada para la mejor comprensión del trabajo y sus conclusiones. Se sugiere hacer un análisis de variabilidad en parámetros y equipos de laboratorios.

Growth performance, hematology parameters and Aeromonas hydrophila challenge of pirarucu (Arapaima gigas) in response to dietary protein levels.

The pirarucu (Arapaima gigas) is a fast-growing Amazonian species of high commercial value. The present study aimed to determine the dietary crude protein (CP) level to promote maximum zootechnical performance for pirarucu fingerlings and as their resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila, as well as evaluate their hematological parameters. Pirarucu fingerlings (2.4 ± 0.08 g, 6.8 ± 0.52 cm) were distributed in 18 tanks (140 L, 40 fish per tank, n = 3) and fed six experimental diets consisting of increasing levels of CP: 300, 400, 450, 500, 550 and 650 g kg-1 in a completely randomized design. Data were submitted to one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05) and the ideal CP level for weight gain was determined using polynomial regression analysis. The dietary CP levels were evaluated using a quadratic polynomial regression and the level of 595 g kg-1 was determined for the best weight gain. The hematocrit of fish fed 300 g kg-1 was higher than in the other groups. No mortalities were observed after the 15-day bacterial challenge; however, number of pirarucu with bacterial damage on the pirarucu caudal fin was higher in the group that was fed the diet with 300 g kg-1. A dietary protein level of 618 g kg-1 is therefore recommended for providing maximum weight gain and immunological resistance in pirarucu fingerlings weighing 2.4-112.5 g.

Agreement between hematocrit values determined by the Cobas b121 blood gas analyzer and the microhematocrit method in dogs, cats, and horses.

BACKGROUND: Packed cell volume (PCV) is important for assessing a patient's health status. Some blood gas analyzers measure hematocrit, and the agreement with PCV varies among different analyzers. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to determine the agreement between PCV measured by microcentrifugation and hematocrit measured by the Cobas b121 blood gas analyzer in dogs, cats, and horses. METHODS: Whole blood samples for PCV and blood gas analysis were collected in lithium-heparin syringes and analyzed within 10 min of collection. Agreement and association between the PCV and Cobas b121 generated hematocrit were assessed by the Bland-Altman method, Pearson's correlation, Deming regression analysis, and paired t tests. A total allowable error of 10% was used for the analysis. RESULTS: This study included 45 dogs, 45 cats, and 33 horses. The respective mean ± SD (minimum-maximum) of PCVs and hematocrits were: dogs, 34.9 ± 9.9% (9.0-55.0) and 32.5 ± 8.8% (10.4-50.6); cats, 29.0 ± 9.6% (11.0-51.0) and 26.9 ± 9.3% (10.2-50.9); horses, 34.2 ± 6.5% (24.0-47.0) and 34.1 ± 6.0% (22.5-46.1). There were no significant differences between the methods. The bias ± SD was: dogs, -2.4 ± 2.6%; cats, -2.2 ± 2.3%; horses, -0.1 ± 2.4%. Pearson's correlation coefficients were > 0.90 for all species (P < 0.0001). In 60%, 49%, and 85% of the samples for dogs, cats, and horses, respectively, the percentage differences between the methods were within 10%. CONCLUSIONS: The Cobas b121 blood gas analyzer provided accurate estimates of PCVs in horses. However, in dogs and cats, there was a large frequency of unacceptable differences between the methods.

Enhanced mucosal response in sheep harbouring ßA beta-globin against haemonchosis.

Association between ovine ß-globin polymorphisms and resistance against haemonchosis was described and related to the mechanism of high oxygen affinity ßA ➔ ßC switch during anaemia, but there are no studies regarding the involved local host responses. Phenotypic parameters and local responses were evaluated in sheep from two ß-globin haplotypes naturally infected with Haemonchus contortus. Morada Nova lambs were monitored at 63, 84 and 105 days of age for faecal egg counts and packed cell volume (PCV) under natural infection with H. contortus. At 210 days of age, lambs of Hb-AA and Hb-BB ß-globin haplotypes were euthanised, and the fundic region of abomasum was sampled for evaluation of microscopic lesions and relative expression of genes related to immune, mucin and lectin activities. Lambs harbouring the ßA allele presented an improved resistance/resilience against clinical haemonchosis, showing higher PCV during infection. Hb-AA animals presented increased eosinophilia in the abomasum compared to Hb-BB animals, accompanied by higher Th2 profile, mucin and lectin activity transcripts, while the inflammatory response was increased in Hb-BB animals. This is the first report to demonstrate an enhanced local response in the primary site of H. contortus infection related to ßA allele of ß-globin haplotype.

Haematological values in cattle reared in humid and subhumid tropics of Mexico.

The objective of this study was to determine some factors that influence the haematological values of cattle reared in the humid and subhumid tropics of Mexico. Whole blood samples were taken from 1355 crossbred cattle in the years 2017 to 2019. Haematocrit (HTC, %), total plasma protein (TPP, g/dL) and peripheral eosinophils count (PEOS, × 103/µL) were determined manually, and the main haematological variables were recorded with an automatic analyser. The statistical analysis considered as classification variables age, sex, season (cold, dry and rainy), year (2017, 2018 and 2019) and origin of the cattle. The mean of the haematological parameters was determined along with the confidence limits (CL) of the different categories of animals according to age. Calves younger than 1-year-old presented higher levels of HTC, red blood cell count (RBC), haemoglobin (HGB), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), platelet number (PLT), white blood cell count (WBC) and lymphocyte count (LYMF) than animals older than 2 years of age. However, they showed the lowest mean cell volume (MCV) and TPP values. In cows, the highest levels of PEOS, granulocytes (GRAN), MCV and medium cells (MID) were observed and the lowest HTC, RBC, RDW and WBC levels. Intervals were determined with the 1st quartile (Q1) or lower confidence interval (90% CI) as the minimum values and the 3rd quartile (Q3) or upper confidence interval (90% CI) as the maximum values. The haematological parameters of cattle reared in the Southeast of Mexico are significantly affected by age, sex and environmental conditions.

Dried blood spot sampling for therapeutic drug monitoring: challenges and opportunities.

INTRODUCTION: The use of dried blood spots (DBS) has gained interest in the field of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) due to its potential advantages, such as minimally invasive capillary blood collection, potential stabilization of drugs and metabolites at room or high temperatures, and lower biohazard, allowing for inexpensive storage and transportation. However, there are several drawbacks to the clinical use of DBS in TDM, mostly related to hematocrit (Hct) effects, differences between venous and capillary blood concentrations, among others, that must be evaluated during analytical and clinical method validation. AREA COVERED: This review focuses on the most recent publications on the applications of DBS sampling for TDM (2016-2022), with a special focus on the challenges presented by this alternative sampling strategy, as well as the opportunities for clinical applications. Real-life studies presenting clinical applications were reviewed. EXPERT OPINION: With the availability of method development and validation guidelines for DBS-based methods in TDM, higher levels of assay validation standardization have been achieved, expanding the clinical applications of DBS sampling in patient care. New sampling devices that overcome the limitations of classical DBS, such as the Hct effects, will further encourage the use of DBS in routine TDM.

Subclinical experimental infection with Taenia hydatigena in sheep is associated with production losses.

The effect of experimental infection by Taenia hydatigena metacestodes on different productive parameters in sheep was evaluated. Seventeen male Columbia lambs distributed in three groups were used. The lambs of the first group (n = 5) were orally inoculated with 1000 T. hydatigena eggs (low dose). The lambs of the second group (n = 5) were inoculated orally with all the eggs of the last proglottid of an adult cestode (high dose). The lambs of the third group (n = 7) only received a placebo and were used as a control group. All lambs were humanely euthanized at week 13 postinfection, and carcass yield and conformation were evaluated. The infection rates of the lambs from the high-dose infected group and the low-dose infected group were 100% and 40%, respectively, with a mean of 2.4 ± 0.6 and 1 ± 0.7 metacestodes of T. hydatigena in the abdominal cavity, respectively. In a first multivariate study (MANOVA) considering the under the curve (AUC) values of body condition, weight gain, and feed consumption, as well as the final feed conversion values, showed a highly significant (p < 0.0001) group effect (high dose/low dose/uninfected). In a second multivariate study (MANOVA) considering the AUC values of eosinophils blood count, packed cell volume and alkaline phosphatase showed a highly significant (p < 0.0001) group effect (high dose/low dose/uninfected). The increase in serum ALP is a consequence of liver damage that had a strong negative correlation (r = -0.63, p < 0.007) with the body condition of the lambs. Despite these findings, we did not observe obvious clinical manifestations in any of the infected lambs. In general, no differences (p > 0.1) were observed between the lambs of the control group and the lambs of the low-dose infected group in the parameters evaluated. The results of this study show that the infection of T. hydatigena metacestodes subclinically produces a decrease in productive efficiency, alterations of some hematological and biochemical values, and a slight deterioration in the general appearance of the infected lambs. The above aspects are rarely detected by most farmers, but they have a negative impact on the productivity of infected lambs.

Development and validation of a simple machine learning tool to predict mortality in leptospirosis.

Predicting risk factors for death in leptospirosis is challenging, and identifying high-risk patients is crucial as it might expedite the start of life-saving supportive care. Admission data of 295 leptospirosis patients were enrolled, and a machine-learning approach was used to fit models in a derivation cohort. The comparison of accuracy metrics was performed with two previous models-SPIRO score and quick SOFA score. A Lasso regression analysis was the selected model, demonstrating the best accuracy to predict mortality in leptospirosis [area under the curve (AUC-ROC) = 0.776]. A score-based prediction was carried out with the coefficients of this model and named LeptoScore. Then, to simplify the predictive tool, a new score was built by attributing points to the predictors with importance values higher than 1. The simplified score, named QuickLepto, has five variables (age > 40 years; lethargy; pulmonary symptom; mean arterial pressure < 80 mmHg and hematocrit < 30%) and good predictive accuracy (AUC-ROC = 0.788). LeptoScore and QuickLepto had better accuracy to predict mortality in patients with leptospirosis when compared to SPIRO score (AUC-ROC = 0.500) and quick SOFA score (AUC-ROC = 0.782). The main result is a new scoring system, the QuickLepto, that is a simple and useful tool to predict death in leptospirosis patients at hospital admission.

Portable near-infrared spectroscopy: A rapid and accurate blood test for diagnosis of Haemonchus contortus infection and for targeted selective treatment of sheep.

Haemonchus contortus is the most prevalent and important gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) in small ruminants. Since it reduces the packed cell volume (PCV), causing anemia, early diagnosis can be used for targeted selective treatment (TST) of sheep, reducing antiparasitic drug use and anthelmintic resistance. This study aimed to predict PCV values through near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and to develop a classification and diagnosis model of H. contortus infection using PCV values, eggs per gram of feces (EPG) counts and mean daily weight gain (DWG). A total of 1728 spectra were collected from blood samples of 216 lambs with a portable NIR spectroscope. In parallel, other parameters indicative of infection were measured: PCV by hematocrit, FAffa MAlan CHArt (FAMACHA) scores, EPG and DWG. To evaluate the relationship between NIRS spectra and the evaluated parameters, principal component analysis (PCA) was used for an exploratory analysis, regression by the partial least squares method (PLS) for the prediction of PCV values via NIRS, and PCA linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA) as a classification model for diagnosis. The absorption peaks in the NIRS region associated with the excitation of overtones of nitrogen-hydrogen (N-H) functional groups of proteins had a strong impact on the principal components (PCs), indicating that blood proteins, especially hemoglobin, can be estimated by the NIRS technique. The model for predicting PCV by PLS presented a standard error of prediction of 2.53, root-mean-square error of 2.48, and coefficient of determination of 0.84, indicating good correlation between the PCV values predicted by the model and the PCV obtained by hematocrit. The PCA-LDA model presented 93.33% sensitivity and 82.18% accuracy, both higher than those of the FAMACHA method, as was expected for resilient Morada Nova lambs. The multivariate models associated with the NIRS technique reported here can be used in the future as a quick and versatile tool for H. contortus infection diagnosis and TST application in lambs.

[Comment on article "Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment"]. / Comentario al artículo "Variabilidad de la hemoglobina y hematocrito determinados en equipo de gases sanguíneos".

´The analysis of samples on different equipment may lead to variation between results; in the article "Variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit determined in blood gas equipment", the authors talk about the variability of hemoglobin and hematocrit between an automated hematology analyzer and an arterial blood gas analyzer. Information is requested on some aspects considered relevant to improve the understanding of the conclusions.

El análisis de muestras en diferentes equipos puede conllevar una variación entre los resultados; en el artículo "Variabilidad de la hemoglobina y hematocrito determinados en equipo de gases sanguíneos", sus autores hablan de la variabilidad de hemoglobina y hematocrito entre un analizador automatizado de hematología y un analizador de gases arteriales. Se solicita información sobre algunos aspectos considerados relevantes para mejorar la compresión de las conclusiones.

The most common inadequacies in red blood cell requests at a reference center in Western Paraná state

Abstract Introduction In the current scenario, in which evidence-based medicine is almost obligatory, therapeutic approaches are increasingly being restricted to measures that are proven to bring benefits to the patient. Transfusion therapy follows the same concept. Even though it can be an essential support procedure in some situations, it must be carefully used, exclusively in situations in which the literature assures scientific support for its usage. Transfusion exposes patients to risks and complications, so it is necessary that we, as doctors, continue working to reduce possible mistakes involving the practice of this type of therapy. Objective To analyze if the red blood cell requests are properly made, analyzing the indication written on them (by the doctor, comparing them to the references in the actual literature. Method In this research, we have analyzed and reviewed the requests for red blood cell concentrates between August and September of 2018 received at the Hematology and Hemotherapy Center studied to find the most common mistakes made by requesters/doctors. Results A total of 397 of the 754 analyzed requests were evaluated as inadequate. Therefore, 1 out of every 2 transfusions performed did not have their requests properly completed in the city of Cascavel, Paraná. Conclusions The number of inappropriate requests was high during the studied period, especially when compared to studies available in the literature. The number of inadequacies suggests that the blood component requests and the subsequent evaluation by the transfusion agency needs to be better addressed in clinical practice.

Efectos a corto plazo del tratamiento con insulina, sobre los índices hematimétricos en diabéticos / Short-term effects of insulin treatment on hematimetricindices in diabetic subjects

Evaluar el efecto a corto plazo del tratamiento con insulina, sobre los índices hematimétricos en sujetos adultos diabéticos tipo 2. Metodología: Estudio retrospectivo, donde se registraron los índices hematimétricos y la glicemia de 44 pacientes hospitalizados (24 masculinos),de 58,7 ± 4,4 años de edad, diabéticos tipo 2, antes y después de 6 ± 2 horas del tratamiento con insulina. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los índices hematimétricos antes y después del tratamiento y tampoco entre los sexos. La glicemia basal se correlacionó con el contaje de glóbulos rojos (r = 0,417; p = 0,03), el volumen corpuscular medio (r = 0,424; p= 0,04), la hemoglobina (r =0,626; p = 0,001), el hematocrito (r = 0,574; p = 0,005) y la hemoglobina corpuscular media (r = 0,537; p = 0,01). Al dividir a la muestra en dos grupos (G1 y G2), tomando en cuenta el valor de la mediana de la diferencia de la glicemia antes y después del tratamiento (G1:<139 mg/dL y G2 ≥ 139 mg/dL), se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el volumen corpuscular medio del G2 antes y después del tratamiento; en la hemoglobina entre G1 y G2, tanto antes como después del tratamiento y en el volumen corpuscular medio entre G1 y G2,después del tratamiento (p < 0,05). Conclusión: La insulina pareciera provocar a corto plazo, un aumento del volumen corpuscular medio en sujetos que disminuyen significativamente su glicemia(AU)

To evaluate the short-term effect of insulintreatment on hematimetric indices in type 2 diabetic adultsubjects. Methodology: It was a retrospective study, wherehematimetric indices and glycemia of 44 hospitalized patients(24 male), 58.7 ± 4.4 years old, type 2 diabetics, were recordedbefore and ather 6 ± 2 hours of insulin treatment. Results:no statistically significant differences were found between thehematimetric indices before and aer treatment and neitherbetween the sexes. Basal glycemia correlated with red blood cellcount (r = 0,417; . = 0,03), mean corpuscular volume (r =0,424; . = 0,04), hemoglobin (r = 0,626; . = 0,001), hematocrit(r = 0,574; . = 0,005), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin(r=0,537; .=0,01). When dividing the sample into two groups,taking into account the median value of the difference inglycemia before and aer treatment (G1: < 139 mg/dL and G2 ≥ 139 mg/dL), a statistically significant difference was found inthe mean corpuscular volume of G2 before and after treatment;in hemoglobin between G1 and G2, both before and aertreatment and in mean corpuscular volume between G1 and G2,after treatment (. <0.05). Conclusion: Insulin seems to cause,in the short term, an increase in mean corpuscular volume insubjects who significantly lower their glycemia(AU)

Phenotypical categorization of indigenous ewes as resistant, resilient or susceptible to Haemonchus contortus.

The economic losses caused by parasite infections, aggravated by resistance to anthelmintics, have generated demand for alternatives involving non-chemical control, such as the selection of resistant animals. The objective of this study was to identify which characteristics best describe animals that are resistant, resilient or susceptible to Haemonchus contortus and estimate the percent number in each category. Sixty-one Morada Nova ewes were evaluated in an extensive system. The performance variables (weight, body condition score), hematological variables (packed cell volume, hemoglobin, white blood cells, segmented neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes) and fecal egg counts were measured individually every 14 days during 6 months. The variables were transformed, and analysis of variance was carried out, with construction of a correlation network. Characteristics linked to parasite infection showed variations among the categories, which helped to identify sheep resistant, resilient or susceptible to H. contortus. Based on the analyses performed, 88.3% of the animals were resistant or resilient and only 11.7% were susceptible. Presence of Trichostrongylidae eggs, body condition score, packed cell volume (PCV) and eosinophil counts were found to be good indicators of naturally infected ewes, and there were significant differences between the categories and correlations between the traits.