C-reactive Protein Levels Research Articles

Relationship between soft tissue envelope thickness of the lower extremity and acute periprosthetic joint infection of the knee.

The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide and it is known to be associated with many postoperative complications, including infection. Patients' body fat distribution may vary and body mass index (BMI) does not provide sufficient information about adipose tissue thickness of the lower extremities. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between thigh diameters and early postoperative prosthesis-related joint infections (PJI) in patients who underwent arthroplasty. The study included 76 patients and 114 knees who were operated on by a single surgeon and underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to primary knee osteoarthritis between May 2022 and September 2023 in a tertiary reference hospital. Circumference of the thickest part of the operated thigh (cm), preoperative erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, height, weight, BMI and the presence of early postoperative prosthesis-related joint infections were evaluated. The mean BMI was 32.6 ± 4.2 (kg/m2). Two (2.6%) were normal weight, 14 (18.5%) were overweight, 58 (76.3%) were obese and 2 (2.6%) were morbidly obese. The mean circumference of the thickest part of the thigh was 57.56 ± 6.38 (cm). 6 patients were diagnosed with PJI in the acute phase. The mean circumference of the thickest part of the thigh was statistically significantly greater in the group with acute PJI compared to the group without PJI (p = 0.048). The incidence of acute PJI was found to be significantly higher in patients with larger thigh diameters, whereas no such relationship was observed for BMI. The incorporation of preoperative soft tissue envelope measurements into routine clinical examination may prove beneficial in reducing the risk of PJI.

Association between overweight and central interleukin-6 in a nonclinical adult population.

Overweight is associated with low-grade systemic inflammation. However, its effect on neuroinflammation remains unclear. We examined the possible association between overweight and neuroinflammation using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a nonclinical adult population in Japan. CSF and plasma levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), and leptin were measured in nonclinical adult participants (35 males and 34 females) who had no current or past history of neuropsychiatric diseases. We performed partial correlation analyses with sex and age as covariates between the body mass index (BMI) and the inflammatory markers and compared them between overweight and nonoverweight participants. The BMI significantly correlated with CSF levels of IL-6 (rs = 0.32, p = 0.009), plasma levels of CRP (rs = 0.30, p = 0.016), IL-1β (rs = 0.29, p = 0.019), IL-6 (rs = 0.25, p = 0.042), TNF-α (rs = 0.43, p < 0.001), and leptin (rs = 0.72, p < 0.001). Overweight participants (BMI ≧ 25) had significantly higher CSF levels of IL-6 (p < 0.001), plasma levels of IL-1β (p = 0.023), TNF-α (p < 0.001), and leptin (p < 0.001) than the nonoverweight participants. Overweight is associated with central IL-6, a marker for neuroinflammation, as well as systemic inflammation markers, even in a nonclinical population.

CRP, PCT, and D-dimer as Biomarkers for Disease Severity in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Study in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global health, resulting in more than 6 million reported deaths worldwide as of April 2023. This study aimed to investigate the potential of C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and D-dimer as biomarkers for assessing disease severity in COVID-19 patients in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo Methods:A retrospective examination was conducted involving 339 COVID-19 patients admitted to Kinshasa hospitals between January 2021 and March 2022. CRP, PCT, and D-dimer levels were measured in all patients and compared between those with severe and non-severe illnesses. Results: Our findings revealed significantly higher CRP, PCT, and D-dimer levels in severe cases compared to non-severe cases. Specifically, the median CRP level was 120.6 mg/L in severe cases, 47.3 mg/L in mild cases, and 13.5 mg/L in moderate cases. The median PCT levels were 0.26 ng/mL in severe cases, 0.08 ng/ mL in mild cases, and 0.07 ng/L in moderate cases. Additionally, the median D-dimer level was 1836.9 µg/L in severe cases and 597.6 µg/L in mild cases, with a value of 481.1 µg/L in moderate cases. System learning techniques were also employed to predict disease severity based on these biomarkers, achieving high accuracy. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that CRP, PCT, and D-dimer serve as valuable biomarkers for identifying severe COVID-19 cases in Kinshasa. Furthermore, the application of machine learning methods can yield accurate predictions of disease severity based on these biomarkers. These biomarkers hold the potential to assist clinicians in informed decision-making regarding patient management and contribute to improved clinical outcomes for COVID-19 patients.

Myocarditis: Differences in Clinical Expression between Patients with ST-Segment Elevation in Electrocardiogram vs. Patients without ST-Segment Elevation.

In cases of myocarditis, electrocardiograms (ECGs) may suggest a pattern of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). NSTEMI patterns are less frequent in myocarditis cases, but it remains unclear if the presence of ST-segment elevation in myocarditis cases is related to a more severe condition and more damage in the myocardium. This is a retrospective study involving 38 patients admitted to hospital with myocarditis. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with ST-segment elevation (STE) patterns in the ECG (25), and patients without ST-segment elevation (non-STE) patterns (13). The data compared included results from epidemiological, laboratory, and instrumental tests. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics v26.0. A p value of <0.05 was established as the threshold for statistical significance. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were higher in the STE group (103.40 ± 82.04 mg/L vs. 43.54 ± 61.93 mg/L, p = 0.017). The left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly higher in the non-STE pattern group (49.71 ± 4.14 vs. 56.58 ± 3.99, p < 0.001). A lower LVEF correlates with higher TnI levels (r= -0.353, p = 0.032) and higher CRP levels (r = -0.554, p < 0.001). Lower left ventricle (LV) strain correlates with higher levels of Troponin I (TnI) (r = -0.641, p = 0.013). LVEFs in the STE group were lower compared to those in the non-STE pattern group. STE pattern was associated with higher CRP levels. Higher TnI levels in cases of myocarditis were associated with lower LV strain and lower LVEF; higher CRP levels also correlated with lower LVEF. Based on a 6-month echocardiographic follow-up, the prognosis of myocarditis was favourable.

Blood eosinophil count correlates with alveolar damage in emphysema-predominant COPD

BackgroundAlthough blood eosinophil count is recognized as a useful biomarker for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the impact of eosinophils in COPD has not been fully elucidated. Here we aimed to investigate the relationships between the blood eosinophil count and various clinical parameters including lung structural changes.MethodsNinety-three COPD patients without concomitant asthma were prospectively enrolled in this study. Blood eosinophil count, serum IgE level, serum periostin level, and chest computed tomography (CT) scans were evaluated. Eosinophilic COPD was defined as COPD with a blood eosinophil count ≧ 300/µL. We examined the correlation between the blood eosinophil count and structural changes graded by chest CT, focusing specifically on thin airway wall (WT thin) and thick airway wall (WT thick) groups. In a separate cohort, the number of eosinophils in the peripheral lungs of COPD patients with low attenuation area (LAA) on chest CT was assessed using lung resection specimens.ResultsThe mean blood eosinophil count was 212.1/µL, and 18 patients (19.3%) were categorized as having eosinophilic COPD. In the whole group analysis, the blood eosinophil count correlated only with blood white blood cells, blood basophils, C-reactive protein level, and sputum eosinophils. However, the blood eosinophil count positively correlated with the percentage of LAA and negatively correlated with the diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide in the WT thin group. Lung specimen data showed an increased number of eosinophils in the peripheral lungs of COPD patients with LAA on chest CT scans compared to normal controls.ConclusionsSome COPD patients without concomitant asthma showed a phenotype of high blood eosinophils. Alveolar damage may be related to eosinophilic inflammation in patients with COPD without asthma and thickening of the central airway wall.

Nanoparticle-Binding Immunoglobulins Predict Variable Complement Responses in Healthy and Diseased Cohorts.

Systemic administration of nanomedicines results in the activation of the complement cascade, promoting phagocytic uptake and triggering proinflammatory responses. Identifying the biomarkers that can predict the "risk" of abnormally high complement responders can improve the safety and efficacy of nanomedicines. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran are two types of clinically approved polymer coatings that trigger complement activation. We performed a multifaceted analysis of the factors affecting the complement activation by PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) and dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoworms (SPIO NWs) in plasma from patients with different inflammatory disease conditions and healthy donors. The complement activation (measured as deposition of the complement protein C3) varied greatly, with 29-fold and 26-fold differences for PLD and SPIO NWs, respectively. Chronic inflammation, acute infection, use of steroids, and sex had minor effects on the variable complement activation, whereas age inversely correlated with the complement activation. C-reactive protein level was not predictive of high (top 20th percentile) complement responses. Plasma concentrations of the main complement factors, as well as total IgG and IgM, showed no correlation with the activation by either nanoparticle. On the other hand, plasma concentrations of anti-PEG IgG and IgM showed a strong positive correlation with the activation by PLD. Particularly, titers of anti-PEG IgM showed the best predictive value for the "risk" of high complement activation by PLD. Titers of antidextran IgG and IgM showed a lower correlation with the activation by SPIO NWs and poor predictive value of the top 20% complement responses. Nanoparticle-bound immunoglobulins showed the best correlation with complement activation and a strong predictive value, supporting the critical role of immunoglobulins in inciting complement. The opsonization of PLD with C3 in plasma with high anti-PEG antibodies was predominantly via the alternative pathway. Characterizing the nature of nanoparticle-binding antibodies has important implications in mitigating and stratifying nanomedicine safety.

Polymorphic variation of the DEFB1 gene might contribute to the development of ankylosing spondylitis: a preliminary study.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory disease that affects the spine and can cause peripheral arthritis, enthesitis, and dactylitis, as well as extra-articular manifestations such as uveitis and inflammatory bowel disease. β-Defensins are antimicrobial peptides involved in the activation and regulation of several immune cell types that may influence the inflammatory response in AS. The aim was to analyze the association and interaction of two functional variants of the DEFB1 gene in AS patients, and their role with inflammatory markers. The rs11362 and rs1800972 variants were genotyped using TaqMan probes in Mexican AS patients and controls. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were quantified. SPSS software was used for statistical analysis and multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) for interactions. The AA and GG genotypes were associated with AS risk in the age- and sex-adjusted model (OR = 6.89, P = 0.008 and OR = 3.43, P = 0.046, respectively); furthermore, the A-G haplotype showed a significant association with AS risk (OR = 2.94, P = 0.012). ESR and CRP were elevated in carriers of the AA genotype compared to the GA and GG genotypes of the rs11362 variant (20.89 ± 9.78 vs. 5.63 ± 4.61 and 4.10 ± 2.65mm/h, P < 0.0001; and 10.92 ± 14.09 vs. 2.14 ± 2.02 and 2.15 ± 2.13mg/L, P < 0.001, respectively). Using the MDR method, strong interactions of the rs11362 variant with sex were identified in the adjusted and unadjusted models. These results suggest that the DEFB1 gene may play a key role in AS pathogenesis.

The relationship between uropathogens and clinical characteristics of children with urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common bacterial infections in children. This study aimed to examine the relationships between different microorganisms and both clinical and laboratory findings in pediatric patients with UTIs. We conducted a retrospective evaluation of children with UTI between 2019 and 2024. Patients were divided into four main groups as normal anatomy, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO), and neurogenic bladder (NB). Information on clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) and prophylactic antibiotic use was recorded. Laboratory results were compared across these patient groups. The study included 266 patients, with a female predominance (female/male ratio: 7.33). NB was the most common urinary tract condition (43.3%), followed by VUR (10.9%) and UPJO (9%). Prophylactic antibiotics were used by 9% of the patients. Acute phase reactants in patients with CIC were significantly higher (p=0.023 for white blood cell (WBC) and p=0.002 for C-reactive protein (CRP) levels). They were also higher in patients with prophylactic antibiotics compared to those without (p=0.001 for both). The most frequently detected bacteria in urine cultures were E. coli (65%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (18.8%), Pseudomonas spp. (7.5%), and Proteus spp. (4.9%). Klebsiella spp., Enterococcus spp., and Morganella spp. were not isolated from patients receiving prophylaxis (p=0.022). Risk factors for UTIs need to be carefully assessed for every patient, and treatment should be customized according to clinical and laboratory results. Individual patient factors should guide drug selection, and treatment plans should account for potential resistance patterns.

Red blood cells from patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and elevated C-reactive protein levels induce endothelial dysfunction.

Endothelial dysfunction is an early consequence of vascular inflammation and a driver of coronary atherosclerotic disease leading to myocardial infarction. The red blood cells (RBCs) mediate endothelial dysfunction in patients at cardiovascular risk, but their role in patients with acute myocardial infarction is unknown. This study aimed to investigate if RBCs from patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) induced endothelial dysfunction and the role of systemic inflammation in this effect. RBCs from patients with STEMI and aged-matched healthy controls were co-incubated with rat aortic segments for 18h followed by evaluation of endothelium-dependent (EDR) and -independent relaxation (EIDR). RBCs and aortic segments were also analyzed for arginase and oxidative stress. The patients were divided into groups depending on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at admission. RBCs from patients with STEMI and CRP levels >2 mg/L induced impairment of EDR, but not EIDR, compared to RBCs from STEMI and CRP <2 mg/L and healthy controls. Aortic expression of arginase 1 was increased following incubation with RBCs from patients with STEMI and CRP >2, and arginase inhibition prevented the RBC-induced endothelial dysfunction. RBCs from patients with STEMI and CRP >2 had increased reactive oxygen species compared to RBCs from patients with CRP <2 and healthy controls. Vascular inhibition of NADPH oxidases and increased dismutation of superoxide improved EDR. RBCs from patients with STEMI and low-grade inflammation induce endothelial dysfunction through a mechanism involving arginase 1 as well and increased RBC and vascular superoxide by NADPH oxidases.

Association between serum vitamin D, uric acid, C-reactive protein, and disease severity in ulcerative colitis: A retrospective study.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the intestinal mucosa, and immunodeficiency is the main cause. Vitamin D (VD) has been shown to regulate many immune diseases, and studies have found that the level of uric acid (UA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) may also affect the severity of UC. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between VD levels and disease severity in UC patients. To determine serum VD levels in patients with UC of different ages and genders in China, and to study its correlation with UC, and to analyze its correlation with serum UA levels and CRP, so as to provide guidance for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of UC. One hundred three UC patients (64 males and 39 females, aged 16-75 years) were diagnosed with varying severity (mild, moderate, and severe). Serum VD levels, UA levels, and CRP levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence. The serum VD level of patients with severe UC was significantly lower than that of patients with mild UC. Gender was significantly correlated with serum UA, CRP, and disease severity in UC patients. Serum VD levels may affect the disease severity of UC patients, and patients with low serum VD content may have more severe disease. Gender affects serum UA, CRP, and disease severity. Males have significantly higher serum UA and CRP levels than females, while disease severity is generally lower than that of females. However, the mechanism of abnormal serum vitamin and trace element levels in UC patients remains to be further studied.

Development and validation of a clinical-radiomics nomogram for the early prediction of Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess

Background and aim Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is a devastating and potentially life-threatening disease globally, with Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess (KPLA) being the most prevalent in Asia. This study aims to develop an effective and comprehensive nomogram combining clinical and radiomics features for early prediction of KPLA. Methods 255 patients with PLA from 2013 to 2023 were enrolled and randomly divided into the training and validation cohorts at a 7:3 ratio. The differences between the two cohorts of patients were assessed via univariate analysis. The radiomics features were extracted from imaging data from enhanced CT of liver abscesses. The optimal radiomics features were filtered using the independent sample t-test and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and a radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated by weighting their respective coefficients. Clinically independent predictors were identified from the clinical data and combined with the Rad-score to develop a nomogram by multivariate logistic regression. The predictive performance was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration curve, and clinical decision curve. Results The nomogram incorporated four clinical features of diabetes mellitus, cryptogenic liver abscess, C-reactive protein level, and splenomegaly, and the Rad-score that was constructed based on seven optimal radiomics features. It had an AUC of 0.929 (95% CI, 0.894-0.964) and 0.923 (95% CI, 0.864-0.981) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration and decision curves showed that the nomogram had good agreement and clinical applicability. Conclusions The clinical-radiomics nomogram performed well in predicting KPLA, hopefully serving as a reference for early diagnosis of KPLA.

The association between early postoperative food intake and postoperative hospital length of stay in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A retrospective observational single-center study

Background & AimsPerioperative nutritional status is critical during the postoperative recovery process in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Several studies on patients undergoing cardiac surgery have reported low energy intake in early postoperative food intake via oral nutrition; however, no study has shown an association of low energy intake with postoperative hospital length of stay (LOS). This study aimed to determine whether early postoperative low food intake was associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. MethodsThis was a retrospective, observational, single-center study conducted in patients aged ≥18 years undergoing elective cardiac surgery from January 1, 2020, to May 31, 2023. Patients were categorized by food intake as food intake < 50% (low food intake group) and ≥ 50% (adequate food intake group) at lunch on postoperative day (POD) 3. The primary outcome of this study was the postoperative hospital LOS. A generalized linear model was used to examine the association between food intake and postoperative hospital LOS using the following explanatory variables: age, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) II value, preoperative risk of malnutrition, activities of daily living status, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, and C-reactive protein level. ResultsOf the 315 patients, 104 (33.0%) had a food intake of <50% on POD3. There were no significant differences in age, sex, EuroSCORE II value, and comorbidities between the two groups. Patients in the low-food intake group had a significantly lower Barthel Index (6.7% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.017) and a higher malnutrition risk according to the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form score (40.4% vs. 28.2%, p = 0.043). Food intake of <50% on POD3 was associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS (β = 1.135 [95% confidence interval: 1.004–1.262], p = 0.018). ConclusionsLow food intake on POD3 is associated with prolonged postoperative hospital LOS in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Early postoperative food intake should be closely monitored in patients after elective cardiac surgery.

Inactivated vaccine dosage and serum IgG levels correlate with persistent COVID-19 infections in hematologic malignancy patients during the Omicron Surge in China

PurposeThe essence of this scholarly work was to carefully outline the key factors intensifying the virulence and protracted contagion of COVID-19, particularly among individuals afflicted with hematologic malignancies (HM), in an epoch predominantly governed by the Omicron variant.MethodsAdults with HM diagnosed with COVID-19 from November 2022 to February 2023 were monitored in this retrospective study. Patient blood samples yielded biochemical data, and COVID-19 was confirmed through RNA or antigen testing. The factors affecting severity and infection duration were examined using both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. For calculating the overall survival probabilities, the Kaplan–Meier product limit approach was employed.ResultsIn the examined cohort, 133 individuals diagnosed with HM and concomitantly infected with COVID-19 were scrutinized. Of the participants, 29.3% (39 patients) were classified as Severe/Critical, while the other 70.7% (94 patients) were categorized as Non-severe. A significant difference was observed in vaccination status: 61.7% of patients in the Non-severe group had received at least a two-dose vaccine regimen, whereas 61.5% of the Severe/Critical group had either minimal or only one dose of vaccination. The data analysis revealed that elevated C-reactive protein levels (≥ 100 mg/L) significantly raised the risk of severe/critical conditions in HM patients with COVID-19, as determined by advanced multivariate logistic regression. The odds ratio was 3.415 with a 95% confidence interval of 1.294–9.012 (p = 0.013). Patients who continued to have positive nucleic acid tests and ongoing symptoms beyond 30 days were categorized as having a persistent infection, whereas those who achieved infection control within this timeframe were categorized as having infection recovery. Of the HM cohort, 11 did not survive beyond 30 days after diagnosis. The results from a competing risk model revealed that increased interleukin-6 levels (HR: 2.626, 95% CI: 1.361–5.075; p = 0.004) was significantly associated with persistent infection. Conversely, receiving more than two vaccine doses (HR: 0.366, 95% CI: 0.158–0.846; p = 0.019), and having high IgG levels (≥ 1000 mg/dl) (HR: 0.364, 95% CI: 0.167–0.791; p = 0.011), were associated with infection recovery. There was a notable disparity in survival rates between patients with persistent infections and infection recovery, with those in the non-persistent group demonstrating superior survival outcomes (P < 0.001).ConclusionsIn conclusion, the study determined that HM patients with COVID-19 and increased C-reactive protein levels had a higher likelihood of severe health outcomes. Persistent infection tended to be more prevalent in those with vaccine dosages (< 2 doses), lower IgG levels, and higher interleukin-6 levels.

Effects of probiotic and vitamin D co-supplementation on clinical symptoms, mental health, and inflammation in adult patients with migraine headache: a randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundMigraine headache is a major public health problem. Routine medications for migraine treatment are not useful in treating all patients and may have some side effects. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation on clinical characteristics of migraine, daily functioning, mental health outcomes, and serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP).MethodsIn this randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, patients aged 18 to 55 years diagnosed with migraine based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders-3 (ICHD-3) were randomized to either vitamin D (50,000 IU every 2 weeks) plus probiotic (4.5 × 1011 CFU per day) or placebo for 12 weeks. The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS) questionnaires were administered to patients at baseline and after 12 weeks. In addition, the frequency, duration, and severity of migraine headaches per month were assessed using a self-administered 30-day headache diary at baseline and the end of the intervention. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D and hs-CRP were also examined at first and the end of the study.ResultsSeventy-two migraine patients with a mean age of 37.46 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 8.32 years were included in this trial. Probiotic and vitamin D co-supplementation compared to placebo resulted in a significant increase in serum levels of vitamin D (+ 12.86 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 1.64 vs. + 1.12 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 0.80 ng/mL, P < 0.001). The between-group analysis in the adjusted model showed a significantly greater reduction in migraine headache frequency (− 3.17 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 0.84 vs. − 1.25 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 0.34; P = 0.031) and severity (− 1.55 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 0.35 vs. + 0.67 ±\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\pm$$\\end{document} 0.29; P = 0.017) in the probiotic and vitamin D group than the placebo group. No significant difference was found between the two arms of the intervention regarding the change in headache duration, hs-CRP, scores of DASS, and HIT-6 questionnaires (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThis trial showed that probiotic and vitamin D co-supplementation for 12 weeks has beneficial effects on migraine headache characteristics. Further research is needed to confirm this finding.

Spent brewer yeast glucan improves metabolic parameters and inflammatory markers reducing health risky changes imposed by the consumption of hypercaloric diet

β-glucans from yeasts are prebiotic health-promoting food ingredients able to boost immune response. An environmentally friendly source of yeast glucans is the spent brewer's yeast. This study investigated the effects of the administration of carboxymethyl glucan (CMG) (20 mg/kg, 12 weeks, orally), a derivative of the β-glucan from spent brewer's yeast, on food intake, weight gain, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, pro-inflammatory state, and hepatic steatosis of rats receiving a hypercaloric diet. The animals were divided into three groups: Normocaloric control (NCT); Hypercaloric diet and saline (HCT); and Hypercaloric diet and CMG (H-CMG). CMG administration could reduce rats' caloric value and food intake, reducing the index of adiposity (HCT:7.2±0.4% vs H-CMG:5.3±0.4% p < 0.05) and weight gain (HCT:111.1±3.8g vs H-CMG: 68.3±4.9g p < 0.05). Furthermore, it improved lipemic and glycemic profiles and lowered hepatic lipid accumulation. CMG decreased Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein (MCP)-1 (H-CT: 89.5±1.8 pg/mL vs H-CMG: 50.7±12.2 pg/mL p < 0.05), Interleukin (IL)-12 (H-CT: 206.0±14.0 pg/mL vs H-CMG:132.4±19.9 pg/mL, p < 0.05), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and increased IL-10 levels, decreasing the cardiovascular risk and pro-inflammatory state. Therefore, CMG has beneficial effects in preventing weight gain and, consequently, improves the metabolic profile in rats while consuming a hypercaloric diet. Findings indicate the spent brewer's yeast CMG can be a strategy to attenuate the risky metabolic changes related to the consumption of a hypercaloric diet.

Efficacy of Eugenol Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles on Sepsis Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates around the world and is characterized by a dysregulated host response to infection, resulting in multiple organ dysfunctions. Eugenol is a phenolic aromatic compound derived from clove oil. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer characteristics, which have led to its extensive use in diverse fields, including cosmetology, medicine, and pharmacology. The ongoing study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of eugenol-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (EC-NPs) on sepsis-induced liver damage using the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model. Methods: Thirty male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups: Sham, sepsis, and septic rats treated with chitosan, eugenol, or EC-NPs. Results: EC-NPs showed excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro. EC-NP administration significantly improved liver function, as indicated by the decreased liver enzyme activities and C-reactive protein (CRP) level, as well as the increase of albumin content. Moreover, EC-NPs caused an increase in glutathione-reduced and antioxidant enzyme activities, as well as a reduction of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide formation. In addition, the EC-NP treatment reduced the DNA damage in septic rats; also, the EC-NP treatment repaired, to some extent, the abnormal architecture of the hepatic tissues of septic rats. Furthermore, the immunohistochemical examination showed a marked decrease in inflammation through the reduction of TNF-α and IL-1β expression. Conclusion: In conclusion, EC-NPs attenuated liver injury in sepsis through its antiinflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant activities and protection of DNA.

Predictors of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in children with acute osteomyelitis

BackgroundThis study aims to identify risk factors associated with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection in children diagnosed with acute osteomyelitis (AO) and to elucidate the laboratory characteristics of these MRSA-infected children to enhance early targeted therapeutic interventions.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis involving 123 children with acute osteomyelitis treated at our hospital. Upon admission, we measured white blood cell (WBC) counts, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR), and platelet counts. Patients were categorized into two groups: the non-MRSA group (n = 73) and the MRSA group (n = 50), with values assigned as follows (non-MRSA group = 0, MRSA group = 1).ResultsThe MRSA group had a significantly higher average age compared to the non-MRSA group (P < 0.05). Notably, the incidence of suppurative arthritis was significantly lower in the MRSA group (P < 0.05). At the time of admission, CRP levels in the MRSA group were markedly elevated compared to those in the non-MRSA group (P < 0.01). After three days of empirical therapy, both WBC and CRP levels remained significantly higher in the MRSA group compared to the non-MRSA group (P < 0.05).ConclusionsIn children newly admitted with acute osteomyelitis, a CRP level exceeding 73.23 µg/mL may indicate a high likelihood of MRSA infection. For children with AO who have been hospitalized for three days on empirical therapy, the presence of WBC > 10.95 × 10^9/L, CRP > 49.56 µg/mL, age > 3.5 years, and the absence of suppurative arthritis suggests a heightened risk of MRSA infection.

Myeloid GSK3α Deficiency Reduces Lesional Inflammation and Neovascularization during Atherosclerotic Progression.

The molecular mechanisms by which cardiovascular risk factors promote the development of atherosclerosis are poorly understood. We have recently shown that genetic ablation of myeloid glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3α attenuates atherosclerotic lesion development in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr-/-) mice. However, the precise contributions of GSK3α/β in atherogenesis are not known. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of GSK3α and/or β deficiency on lesional inflammation and plaque vascularization. Five-week-old female Ldlr-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet for 10 weeks to establish atherosclerotic lesions. Mice were harvested at 15 weeks of age and atherosclerotic lesions were characterized. The results indicate that, in addition to significantly reducing plaque volume, GSK3α-deficiency decreases inflammation, reduces vasa vasorum density at the aortic sinus, and reduces plasma c-reactive protein (CRP) levels. GSK3β-deficiency is associated with decreased plasma CRP levels but does not affect lesional inflammation or vascularization. These results suggest GSK3α may be an applicable target for the development of novel anti-atherogenic therapies.

Long-term goflkicept therapy for patients with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis: results of the interim analysis of an ongoing open-label extension study

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of goflkicept treatment in patients with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis (IRP). This report presents the interim analysis of an ongoing open-label extension (OLE) clinical trial of goflkicept in patients with IRP (NCT05673902), as a continuation of the core study (NCT04692766). The study assessed the frequency of pericarditis recurrence, time to recurrence after 12 and 60 weeks of goflkicept therapy, changes in C-reactive protein level, chest pain intensity, pericardial effusion size, and adverse events (AEs). All patients remained in clinical-laboratory remission during the 60 weeks of goflkicept treatment. The recurrence frequency was 31.3% (5/16) after 60 weeks and 90% (9/10) after 12 weeks of goflkicept treatment (p</i><</i>0.001). A total of 64 AEs were reported in 16 patients (94.1%), mostly of mild to moderate severity. The most common AEs were infections, occurring in 11 patients (64.7%). Nine serious adverse events were reported in 5 patients, none of which were considered drug-related. There were no deaths. Long-term goflkicept therapy resulted in a significant reduction in the risk of recurrence and prolonged remission without an increase in adverse events.

Adding red propolis to the diet of Lacaune lambs: Effects on animal health, ruminal environment, performance, and meat quality

This study determined the influence of red propolis ethanolic extract in lambs' diets on the ruminal environment, animal health, and growth. Two experiments were carried out to achieve these objectives. Pilot study: Twenty-four female Lacaune lambs were divided into four groups, with three replicates and two animals per replicate (pen): T0 (Control), TP1.3, TP2.7, and TP5.3, representing 0, 1.3, 2.7, and 5.3 mL of propolis extract per animal/day, respectively. The highest daily weight gain was observed in lambs that consumed 2.7 mL of propolis extract per day, and they also had the lowest feed conversion rate compared to the control. Lower total leukocyte counts were observed in lambs that consumed propolis extract compared to control due to lower granulocyte and lymphocyte counts. Ceruloplasmin and C-reactive protein levels were lower in the serum of lambs that consumed propolis compared to the control. Lambs that consumed 1.3 and 2.7 mL of propolis extract had lower TBARS levels than the control. The effect of treatment was observed for ruminal pH, which was higher in lambs that consumed propolis extract than in control. A lower concentration of short-chain fatty acids was observed in lambs that consumed propolis than the control due to lower concentrations of acetic and butyric acid. In experiment II, 36 male Lacaune lambs were selected and divided into two groups: MONENSIN (23.45 ppm of monensin per kg/dry matter (DM)) and PROPOLIS (3.8 mL of propolis per animal/day). The animals that consumed propolis extract had greater body weight, weight gain, and average daily gain. These also had a shorter time to reduce methylene blue, thus demonstrating more significant bacterial activity in the rumen. Furthermore, they had lower counts of Escherichia coli, total coliforms, and Enterobacteria. The meat's fatty acid profile in animals fed the red propolis extract showed higher concentrations of monounsaturated fatty acids. In conclusion, adding red propolis extract to the concentrate increased weight gain, average daily gain, and oxidative balance with an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect.