History Of Consumption Research Articles

Associations between body mass index and all-cause mortality among individuals with psoriasis: results from the NHANES database retrospective cohort study.

Previous findings imply a potential positive association between BMI and all-cause mortality in individuals with psoriasis, yet direct evidence remains absent. This study aimed to fill this gap. We utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the periods 2003-2006 and 2009-2014. Participants' BMI was categorized as lean (<25), overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30), and obese (BMI ≥ 30). Psoriasis status was determined through self-reporting. The main outcome measured was all-cause mortality up to December 2019. We accounted for multiple covariates, such as sociodemographic factors and histories of smoking and alcohol consumption. Our statistical analyses mainly included Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Restricted Cubic Spline (RCS) and Multivariate Cox Regression (MCR). We also applied propensity score matching (PSM) to verify the robustness of our findings. Among 22,876 participants, 618 (2.70%) reported a history of psoriasis. An overall effect from the MCR analysis showed that, among individuals with psoriasis, a higher baseline BMI was independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, noting a 5.5% rise in mortality risk per BMI unit [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.055, 95% CI: 1.004-1.110, p = 0.035]. This significant relationship persisted after PSM. A statistically significant positive correlation was consistent among males, smokers, and individuals younger than 60. However, no such association was found in individuals without a history of psoriasis. Additionally, no significant difference in mortality risk was found between lean and overweight groups with psoriasis, according to the RCS regression and stratified analysis. Our findings indicated a trend that, higher BMIs significantly correlated with increased risks of all-cause mortality in people with psoriasis, particularly among obese ones. However, the impact of being overweight on this relationship remains underexplored. Moreover, the necessity to employ alternative metrics beyond BMI for body fat assessment to further investigate these associations is critical.

A prospective cohort study on the improvement of disease-free progression survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma by combining Sophora japonica granules with targeted and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

e16187 Background: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of combining Sophora japonica granules with targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who had not undergone systemic treatment. Methods: A prospective cohort study design was adopted (ChiCTR2400079626), collecting HCC patients visited the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2023. All patients received targeted therapy and ICIs treatment. "Whether Sophora japonica granules were combined during treatment" was considered as the exposure factor. Patients who met this exposure factor were included in the exposure group (n = 48), and those who did not meet this factor were included in the non-exposure group (n = 44). The disease-free survival (PFS), six-month PFS rate, and subgroup analysis between two groups. Results: The PFS of the exposure group was 8.9 months (m), and that of the non-exposure group was 5m(P = 0.001 HR = 0.50, 95%CI (0.32~0.78)). The six-month PFS rates were 66.7% compared to 34.1%(P = 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that in subgroups with hepatitis, cirrhosis, vascular invasion, extrahepatic metastasis, tumor maximum diameter ≥5cm, combined TKI, the exposure group had significantly longer PFS than the non-exposure group (respectively: 9m VS 5m, 10m VS 4m, 13m VS 3m, 8.3m VS 4m, 9m VS 4m, 9m VS 5m),(P &lt; 0.05). In the subgroup with a history of alcohol consumption, the exposure group's PFS was extended by 9 m (14m VS 5m; P = 0.010); in the subgroup with baseline AFP ≥400ng/ml, PFS was extended by 6m (9m VS 3m; P = 0.017), and in the subgroup with baseline AFP &lt; 400ng/ml, PFS was also extended by 2.9m (8.9m VS 6m; P = 0.024), with all differences being statistically significant. Multivariate analysis showed that extrahepatic metastasis was an independent prognostic factor, with a disease progression risk 1.77 times higher than that of patients without extrahepatic metastasis [HR = 1.77, 95%CI (1.11~2.81), P = 0.016]. Combining Sophora japonica granules was a protective factor [HR = 0.53, 95%CI (0.33~0.84), P = 0.006], reducing the risk of disease progression in HCC patients treated with targeted therapy and ICIs by 47%. Conclusions: Combining Sophora japonica granules can extend the progression-free survival of HCC patients treated with targeted therapy and ICIs, increase the six-month PFS rate, and significantly reduce the risk of disease progression. The survival benefit was more pronounced in subgroups with vascular invasion and a history of alcohol consumption, with PFS exceeding one year. After combining Sophora japonica granules, the survival benefit improved more in the ICIs + TKI subgroup compared to the ICIs + bevacizumab subgroup. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR2400079626.

Clinical predictive factors and imaging biomarkers of treatment response to half dose PDT in patients with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

PurposeTo determine the clinical and imaging biomarkers of the response to half-dose photodynamic therapy (HD-PDT) in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) MethodsClinical records and baseline ophthalmic images of 67 chronic CSC patients who underwent HD-PDT were assessed. In addition to demographic data, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA) and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images were analyzed for specific biomarkers. The patients were categorized to early responder and late responder based on the time needed for complete resolution of subretinal fluid after PDT (less than 1 month vs. more than 1 month). The baseline clinical and imaging biomarkers were compared between the two groups. ResultsSeventy-three eyes of 67 patients were included in the study. The mean response time to PDT was 1.63 ± 1.48 months with 82.2% (60/73) of eyes categorized as early responder. The mean response time to PDT in delayed-response group was 4.15±1.51 months. In multivariate analysis, delayed response to PDT was associated with lacking history of systemic corticosteroid consumption, lacking history of pretreatment with eplerenone or acetazolamide before PDT and presence of hyperreflective foci in baseline OCT images (all p values < 0.05). There was no association between final visual outcome and late response to PDT. ConclusionThe presence of inflammatory biomarkers such as hyperreflective foci in baseline OCT images might be indicative of resistance to PDT. Moreover, the effect of pretreatment with mineralocorticoid antagonist on the response to PDT in chronic CSC should be explored in future prospective studies.

Madelung’s Disease in a Middle-Aged Nigerian Man: A Case Report

Abstract Madelung’s disease is a rare metabolic disease of surgical importance seldom reported among Africans. This case reports the condition in a middle-aged Nigerian man with Type 1 variety of the condition. In addition, he was overweight and had diastolic hypertension (90 mmHg) with a 30-year history of local alcohol consumption of 30-60 units/day. Diagnosis of Madelung’s disease was made by fine-needle aspiration cytology, ultrasound scan, and x-ray of the fatty deposits on the body. The patient also had an aspartate transaminase-to-alanine transaminase (AST/ALT) ratio of 2.0, indicative of alcoholic fatty liver disease. Management was through counseling to stop alcohol and excision of the neck mass. The case introduces this rare condition, demonstrates the need for evaluation of patients with Madelung’s disease for metabolic complications, and highlights the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in the management of this disease.

The Superfood Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana) and its Therapeutic Activities - A Review

This comprehensive review article delves into the multifaceted aspects of the superfood finger millet (Eleusine coracana) and its therapeutic activities, with an emphasis on preclinical studies. Finger millet, commonly known as ragi, has a rich history of consumption across diverse regions, notably Africa and Asia, owing to its exceptional nutritional profile and associated health benefits. The paper meticulously examines the intricate nutritional composition of finger millet, elucidating its notable concentrations of essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, it meticulously scrutinizes the therapeutic properties of finger millet, including its documented antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer attributes, with an in-depth exploration of findings from preclinical investigations supporting these claims. Throughout the review, special attention is devoted to dissecting the mechanisms underlying finger millet's therapeutic effects, drawing on insights garnered from preclinical studies. These investigations shed light on the molecular pathways and biological processes through which finger millet exerts its health-promoting actions, providing valuable mechanistic understanding. Additionally, the review assesses the potential applications of finger millet in preventing and managing various health conditions, based on the robust evidence gleaned from preclinical research endeavors. In essence, this review underscores the pivotal role of finger millet as a functional food endowed with substantial potential for enhancing human health and well-being. By synthesizing and analyzing the wealth of data from preclinical studies, the paper not only accentuates the nutritional prowess of finger millet but also delineates its therapeutic prowess, thereby advocating for its integration into dietary regimes and health interventions. Keywords: Finger millet, Eleusine coracana, superfood, therapeutic activities, preclinical studies, nutritional composition, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, functional food.

Awareness of fish-borne zoonoses and prevalence of Contracaecum in Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus collected from Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia.

Many fish species can harbour a wide range of pathogenic agents in their tissues. Of many pathogens, the parasitic nematode of genus Contracaecum, which resides in the tissues of fish species, can results in fish-borne infections in humans. This study was planned to assess consumers' awareness of fish-borne zoonoses in the fishing sites of Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia. The study was also aimed at demonstrating the zoonotic nematode, Contracaecum parasites in the Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus fishes collected from Lake Chamo, Arba Minch, Ethiopia. Assessment of awareness about fish-borne zoonoses was conducted in randomly selected participants (n = 162) using face-to-face interviews via a structured and semi-structured questionnaire. Besides, 70 fishes (O. niloticus = 35 and L. niloticus = 35) were examined for the presence of larva of Contracaecum and other anisakid genera through standard dissection, pepsin-hydrochloric acid digestion and microscopic observation. Consumers have inadequate awareness about fish-borne zoonoses based on the answers they provided to the questions. The majority of respondents (82%) consume raw fish in the area. Of these, a significantly higher proportion were male (p < 0.001), completed their elementary or high school (p = 0.004), Orthodox Christian (p = 0.044), fishermen (p < 0.001) and participants without previous information about fish-borne zoonoses (p < 0.001). Overall, of examined fishes (n = 70), n = 15 (21.4%, 95% CI, 12.8-33.2) were infected with Contracaecum larva. A significant (p = 0.028) higher infection prevalence was noted in L. niloticus (34.3%, 95% CI, 19.7-52.3) compared to O. niloticus (8.6%, 95% CI, 2.2-24.2). A unit gram addition in the total weight of fish would significantly raise the risk of Contracaecum infection by 1% (p < 0.001). The presence of Contracaecum, a zoonotic nematode in the fishes, which are often preferred by consumers for raw dishes, designates a high risk of possible fish-borne infections in the area. Thus, providing education and training for fishermen, visitors of the area, and local people who visit the area for fish consumption, it is inevitably important to minimize the risk. Furthermore, health workers should suspect fish-borne infections, such as anisakidosis in patients who have a history of raw fish consumption in Arba Minch, Ethiopia.

Survey of hepatitis B virus infection for liver cancer screening in China: A population-based, cross-sectional study.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the primary cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. The target population for HCC screening comprises individuals who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). However, current data on the prevalence of HBV infection among individuals who are eligible for HCC screening in China are lacking. We aimed to assess the seroepidemiology of HBV infection among Chinese individuals eligible for HCC screening to provide the latest evidence for appropriate HCC screening strategies in China. Questionnaires including information of sex, age, ethnicity, marital status, educational level, source of drinking water, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption history and serum samples were collected from females aged 45-64 years and males aged 35-64 years in 21 counties from 4 provinces in eastern and central China between 2015 and 2023. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods were used to detect the serum HBV marker HBsAg. A total of 603,082 individuals were enrolled, and serum samples were collected for analysis from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2023. The prevalence of HBsAg positive in the study population was 5.23% (31,528/603,082). The prevalence of HBsAg positive was greater in males than in females (5.60% [17,660/315,183] vs . 4.82% [13,868/287,899], χ 2 =187.52, P <0.0001). The elderly participants exhibited a greater prevalence of HBV infection than younger participants (χ 2 =41.73, P <0.0001). Birth cohort analysis revealed an overall downward trend in HBV prevalence for both males and females. Individuals born in more recent cohorts exhibited a lower prevalence of HBV infection as compared to those born earlier. The current prevalence of HBV infection remains above 5% in populations eligible for HCC screening in China. Further efforts should be made to increase the accessibility of HCC screening among individuals with HBV infection.

Assessment of Cognitive Function in Romanian Patients with Chronic Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholism presents a significant health concern with notable socioeconomic implications. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can manifest when individuals cease or drastically reduce their alcohol consumption after prolonged use. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by substantial lipid accumulation in the liver cells of individuals with no history of alcohol consumption. There is evidence suggesting an association between cognitive impairment and both conditions. This study aimed to evaluate cognitive impairment in patients with NAFLD and AWS using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). This study involved 120 patients admitted to two hospitals in Craiova, Romania. Results indicated that patients with NAFLD did not exhibit cognitive impairment as measured by MMSE (Mean = 29.27, SD = 0.785). Conversely, patients with AWS showed more pronounced cognitive dysfunction, with a mean MMSE score at admission of 16.60 ± 4.097 and 24.60 ± 2.832 after 2 weeks under treatment with Vitamins B1 and B6 and Cerebrolysin. Additionally, our findings suggested that cognitive dysfunction among alcohol consumers was correlated with the severity of clinical symptoms, as demonstrated by the severity of tremors in our study. The two-week period under treatment and alcohol withdrawal was insufficient for cognitive function to return to normal levels. Observational studies on longer periods of time are advised.

Tracking the history of polycyclic aromatic compounds in London through a River Thames sediment core and ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry

Polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heteroatom-containing analogues, constitute an important environmental contaminant class. For decades, limited numbers of priority PAHs have been routinely targeted in pollution investigations, however, there is growing awareness for the potential occurrence of thousands of PACs in the environment. In this study, untargeted Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry was used for the molecular characterisation of PACs in a sediment core from Chiswick Ait, in the River Thames, London, UK. Using complex mixture analysis approaches, including aromaticity index calculations, the number of molecular PAC components was determined for eight core depths, extending back to the 1930s. A maximum of 1676 molecular compositions representing PACs was detected at the depth corresponding to the 1950s, and a decline in PAC numbers was observed up the core. A case linking the PACs to London’s coal consumption history is presented, alongside other possible sources, with some data features indicating pyrogenic origins. The overall core profile trend in PAC components, including compounds with oxygen, sulfur, nitrogen, and chlorine atoms, is shown to broadly correspond to the 16 priority PAH concentration profile trend previously determined for this core. These findings have implications for other industry-impacted environments.

Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of type 2 diabetes in southeast China: A population-based study.

To estimate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, control rate, and influence factors of type 2 diabetes in Fujian province and provide the scientific basic for prevention. A population-based study with the analysis of binary logistic regression was carried out to estimate the odds ratios of the influencing factor on type 2 diabetes. Data of the Patient-Centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events (PEACE) in southeast China were used. The study sample originated from 12 counties in Fujian province and included 135,352 permanent residents aged 35-75 years in 2021. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 18.32% (24,801/135,352). Among them, 13,921 (56.13%) were aware of their condition, 11,894 (47.96%) were receiving treatment, and 4,537 (18.29%) had achieved control of blood glucose. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older age, men, low-family income, low-education level, urban locality, no medical insurance, and histories of myocardial infarction, stroke, dyslipidemia, hypertension, alcohol consumption, and obesity were associated with a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes among residents aged 35-75 years in southeast China is high, whereas the status of its low awareness, treatment and control is severe, warranting a broad-based global strategy, including greater efforts in earlier screening, and more effective and affordable treatment is essential.

Prevalence and predictors of residual antibiotics in children's blood in community settings in Tanzania

ObjectivesChildren account for a significant proportion of antibiotic consumption in low- and middle-income countries, with overuse occurring in formal and informal health sectors. This study assessed the prevalence and predictors of residual antibiotics in the blood of children in the Mbeya and Morogoro regions of Tanzania. MethodsThe cross-sectional community-based survey used two-stage cluster sampling to include children aged under 15 years. For each child, information on recent illness, healthcare-seeking behaviour, and use of antibiotics, as well as a dried blood spot sample, were collected. The samples underwent tandem mass spectrometry analysis to quantify the concentrations of 15 common antibiotics. Associations between survey variables and the presence of residual antibiotics were assessed using mixed-effects logistic regression. ResultsIn total, 1742 children were surveyed, and 1699 analysed. The overall prevalence of residual antibiotics in the blood samples was 17.4% (296/1699), the highest among children under the age of 5 years. The most frequently detected antibiotics were trimethoprim (144/1699; 8.5%), sulfamethoxazole (102/1699; 6.0%), metronidazole (61/1699; 3.6%), and amoxicillin (43/1699; 2.5%). The strongest predictors of residual antibiotics in the blood were observed presence of antibiotics at home (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.9; 95% CI, 2.0–4.1) and reported consumption of antibiotics in the last 2 weeks (aOR = 2.5; 95% CI, 1.6–3.9). However, half (145/296) of the children who had residual antibiotics in their blood, some with multiple antibiotics, had no reported history of illness or antibiotic consumption in the last 2 weeks, and antibiotics were not found at home. DiscussionThis study demonstrated a high prevalence of antibiotic exposure among children in Tanzanian communities, albeit likely underestimated, especially for compounds with short half-lives. A significant proportion of antibiotic exposure was unexplained and may have been due to unreported self-medication or environmental pathways. Incorporating biomonitoring into surveillance strategies can help better understand exposure patterns and design antibiotic stewardship interventions.

Abnormal uterine bleeding and its associated factors among reproductive-age women who visit the gynecology ward in Dilla University General Hospital, Southern Ethiopia, 2022

BackgroundAbnormal uterine bleeding, a frequent gynecological problem among women of reproductive age, significantly affects their health and quality of life. Despite its problem, research on its extent and contributing factors in Ethiopia is scarce. Hence, this study is designed to determine the magnitude and factors associated with abnormal uterine bleeding among women visiting Dilla University General Hospital, Dilla, Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was conducted with 380 women of reproductive age at Dilla University General Hospital. A systematic sampling method was employed to select the participants for the study. A structured interview administered questionnaire and checklist were used to collect the data. Stata V.14 software was used for cleaning, coding, ensuring completeness and accuracy, and further analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. Finally, the variables that have a p-value of < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsIn this study, the magnitude of abnormal uterine bleeding was 24.21% (95% CI, 20.14–28.79). History of sexually transmitted disease [AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: (1.33, 4.75)], history of anemia [AOR = 3.92, 95% CI: (1.20, 12.74)]., history of alcohol consumption [AOR = 2.49, 95% CI: (1.22, 5.06)], and perceived stress level [AOR = 1.30, 95% CI: (1.15, 1.69)] were found to be significantly associated with abnormal uterine bleeding.ConclusionsThe magnitude of abnormal uterine bleeding was 24.2% in the study setting. Factors such as a history of sexually transmitted disease, anemia, alcohol consumption, and perceived stress level were identified as significant risk factors for abnormal uterine bleeding. Addressing these factors is crucial for management. Further research and interventions targeting these risks are needed to enhance health outcomes. The study provides valuable insights for future interventions.

Interventional Intensive Care in Postoperative Period of Gastric Surgical Repair Due to Perforated Peptic Ulcer Disease : A Case Report

Introduction: Perforated peptic ulcer is the most common indication for emergency gastric surgery. good management of postoperative peptic ulcer perforation patients in the ICU will reduce patient mortality rates. Case presentation A 76-year-old male patient presented with a major complaint of pain throughout the abdomen that had worsened since 1 day, the abdominal pain had been felt for 4 days before admission. The patient had a history of painkiller drug consumption routinely for 3 years. The patient’s vital signs were normal, with a qSOFA score 1 and a VAS score 5. Abdominal physical examination showed the abdominal distended, no visible contour and no visible peristaltic, decreased bowel sound, and there is tenderness and rebound tenderness at the whole abdomen Patient was taken up for emergency laparostomy, then the patient underwent diagnostic laparoscopic in an elective setting with intraoperative findings of gastric perforation, then patient continued with the gastric repair. In the postoperative period, the patient was treated in the ICU of Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital. Conclusion: Intensive care management for post-gastric repair surgery patients is generally the same as for other abdominal surgery patients. The intensive care management needs comprehensive treatment, starting from oxygen therapy, monitoring, analgesia, fluid therapy, antibiotic therapy, glycemic control, and nasogastric tube nutrition.

Surveillance for rhabdomyolysis after the consumption of crayfish in Wuhan, China, 2016-2022.

To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and etiology of crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis. Cases of crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis in Wuhan were monitored, and professional training of city's surveillance personnel was conducted. Unified questionnaires were used to collect data. The first case of crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis occurred on July 12, 2016. Subsequently, 423 patients were reported over the next 7 years, with muscle pain, weakness, and chest distress as main symptoms. In total, 64.54% (273/423) of patients were females, and young adults (aged 20-49 years) account for 86.22% (363/423) of patients. The primary clinical presentations were muscle pain, muscle weakness, and chest discomfort. The median incubation time was 6 h. And the number of cases may be related to water levels in Yangzi river. Laboratory tests revealed elevated creatine kinase and myoglobin levels. In total, 95.16% (236/248) of patients had consumed crayfish tail shrimp and 91.53% (227/248) had consumed crayfish liver and pancreas (Female crayfish also contain ovaries). Only 25.00% (62/248) of patients had a history of alcohol consumption. On average, 227 patients consumed 15 (3-50) crayfish, of whom 84.14% (191/227) consumed more than 10 crayfish. All patients had a favorable prognosis. Crayfish-related rhabdomyolysis is a kind of a case or cluster of patients present with severe myalgia or weakness of unknown etiology and mechanism disease in Wuhan, China, 2016-2022. Excessive consumption of crayfish may be a risk factor for the disease. The relationship between the specific parts of crayfish consumed and the onset of the disease is unclear, suggesting further research is needed to identify the relevant risk factors for the disease.

A traditional fermented bamboo shoot reduces intracellular fat accumulation and promotes fat browning in differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocyte cells through the activation of the AMPK signaling pathway

AbstractFunctional foods, such as fermented bamboo shoots, have a long history of consumption among the ethnic communities in northeast India. These locally fermented bamboo shoots contain a wealth of beneficial microbes and metabolites that can help combat metabolic syndromes like obesity. However, the precise effects and mechanism behind fermented bamboo shoot products and their anti‐obesity properties remain unknown. This study aims to explore the different types of fermented bamboo shoot products to determine their potential anti‐obesity effects as well as to analyze their microbial diversity and metabolite profiles. Using both culture‐dependent and culture‐independent methods, we found a high abundance of lactic acid bacteria from the Firmicutes and Proteobacteria phyla in the sample. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) based untargeted metabolite profiling detected several aroma‐active compounds, bioactive metabolites, short‐chain fatty acids, and essential amino acids in the samples. The water extract derived from a particular type of fermented bamboo shoot, Melye‐amiley, was found to significantly reduce intracellular lipid accumulation in cultured 3T3‐L1 cells. In addition, this extract increased the expression of lipolytic (hormone‐sensitive lipase, lipoprotein lipase, and adipose triglyceride lipase) and browning regulator genes (uncoupling protein [UCP1], PRDM16, and PGC1‐alpha). By activating the AMPK signaling pathway, the water extract from Melye‐amiley also upregulated thermogenic protein expression and promoted mitochondrial biogenesis and fatty acid β‐oxidation. These findings suggest that fermented bamboo shoot extract has promising anti‐obesity effects by boosting energy expenditure in white adipocytes. Future research is necessary to identify the active ingredient(s) that may lead to new therapies to treat obesity.

PROLONGED ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION IN POST-COVID-19 HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS

Objective: to investigate the endothelial function in hypertensive patients after 1.5 ± 0.4 years after COVID-19 recovery. Design and method: We studied 64 treated hypertensive patients divided into 2 groups: 39 patients recovered from mild to moderate COVID-19 in 2020-2022 years (1st group) and 25 patients were not ill with COVID-19 (2nd group). All patients were vaccinated against COVID-19. The clinical characteristics and laboratory finding measurements were evaluated. Results: There were no significant differences in sex, duration of hypertension, frequency of family history of premature CVD, smoking, alcohol consumption, BMI, and presence of concomitant DM, CAD, stroke/TIA, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, office BP between the 2 groups. The patients in 1st group were younger and had higher GFR than patients in 2nd group (respectively, 57.9 ± 1.0 vs 61.1 ± 1.5 years, P = 0.03 and 83.2 ± 3.4 vs 71.9 ± 3.7 ml/ min/1.73m2, P = 0.03). The levels of anti-spike IgG antibodies by 21.3% were higher in vaccinated patients with prior COVID-19 than in patients without prior COVID-19. Serum IL-10 and TNF- α concentrations did not differ between groups. However, serum levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) (0.64 ± 0.02 vs 0.53 ± 0.02 μmol/l, P = 0.047), CRP (8.6 ± 2.5 vs 4.3 ± 0.6 mg/l, P = 0.049), 24-h albuminuria (28.1 ± 3.8 vs 14.1 ± 2.3 mg/day, P = 0.048) were higher in post-COVID-19 patients than in patients of 2nd group. Conclusions: After 1.5 ± 0.4 years of recovery from COVID-19, the hypertensive patients who received the vaccine were found to have greater activation of systemic inflammation, higher levels of albuminuria, and higher blood ADMA concentrations compared to vaccinated individuals who did not have COVID-19. This fact may indicate a long-lasting dysfunction of the endothelium after suffering from COVID-19 and the absence of such an effect after vaccination without a history of COVID-19.

Investigating the Effect of Substance Desire and Child Abuse in Adolescent Suicide Attempt.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of child abuse and substance desire on adolescent suicide. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on all adolescents aged 12 to 19 who attempted suicide in 2018 at Khorshid Hospital, Isfahan, Iran. A checklist of the patients' demographic information, toxicological data, and 2 standard questionnaires, including substance desire (family, personal, social) and child abuse questionnaire (emotional abuse, physical abuse, and neglect abuse), were collected. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 15. Comparisons between the 2 groups were performed using t tests, chi-square tests, regression analysis, and crude model analysis. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval were calculated based on logistic regression. A total of 196 teenagers were included in the study, with a mean age of 16.48±1.6 years. Out of these, 155 individuals (79.1%) were female, resulting in a female-to-male ratio of 3.78. There was a significant relationship between gender and alcohol consumption in the personal aspect, as well as between the history of psychiatric diseases and alcohol consumption in the physical aspect (P<0.005). The previous history of suicide was the only variable that showed significance in all aspects of both the substance desire and child abuse questionnaires. History of neglect abuse (OR: 1.2, 95% CI [1.07-1.41]; P=0.009) was a predictive factor for suicide attempt. However, being male (OR: 0.12, 95% CI [0.039-0.37], P=0.000), having no psychiatric history (OR: 0.23, 95% CI [0.10-0.52], P<0.001) and not consuming alcohol (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.15-0.71, P=0.005) were identified as protective factors for attempted suicide. A public health strategy for suicide prevention includes implementing prevention strategies aimed at reducing risk factors, such as alcohol consumption and the risk of neglect abuse.

Consequences of Exposure to Famine Exposure on the Later Life eGFR Decline Among Survivors of the Great Chinese Famine: A Retrospective Study

Background and ObjectivesChronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly contributes to the socio-economic burden both in China and worldwide. Previous research has shown that experiencing childhood famine is linked to various chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and proteinuria. However, the long-term effects of early life famine exposure on adult kidney function remain unclear. This study investigates whether exposure to the Chinese Great Famine (1959-1962) is associated with a decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) later in life. Materials and MethodsCHARLS is a population-based observational study. We analyzed data from 8,828 participants in the 2011-2012 baseline survey, updated in 2014. Participants were categorized based on their birth year into fetal-exposed (1959-1962), childhood-exposed (1949-1958), adolescence/adult-exposed (1912–1948), and non-exposed (1963–1989) groups. The estimated GFR (eGFR) was calculated using the CKD-EPI-Cr-Cys equation (2021), with CKD defined as an eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. ResultsAverage eGFR values were 103.0, 96.8, 91.2, and 76.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 for the fetal-exposed, childhood-exposed, adolescence/adult-exposed, and non-exposed groups, respectively. The eGFR in the exposed groups was significantly lower compared to the non-exposed group. Specifically, famine exposure correlated with a lower eGFR (CE -9.14, 95%CI -9.46, -8.82), with the strongest association observed in the adolescence/adult-exposed group (CE -26.74, 95%CI -27.75, -25.74). Adjusting for variables such as demographics, physical and laboratory tests, complications, and personal habits like smoking and drinking did not qualitatively alter this association (CE -1.38, 95%CI -1.72, -1.04). Further stratification by sex, body mass index (BMI), alcohol consumption history, hypertension, diabetes, CESD score, and education level showed that the association remained consistent. ConclusionsExposure to famine during different life stages can have enduring effects on GFR decline in humans.

The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Sexual Dysfunction in the Elderly in Southern China.

This study aims to evaluate the epidemiological features of sexual dysfunction in people aged more than 65 years in parts of China, and to investigate the independent significant risk factors. According to the population distribution of five communities in Xiamen and Chongqing, we have randomly enrolled 2403 people more than 65 years-of-age. We collected data information through a questionnaire survey. Then demonstrated the current condition of sexual dysfunction in the samples by statistical analysis, and multivariable logistic regression was used to disclose the risk factors of sexual dysfunction in the older adults. According to this study, about 10.48% of the elderly had sexual dysfunctions of different degrees and duration. The proportion of men was about twice that of women (14.5% of males and 7.3% of females). During the course of the disease, 3.19% (43/1344) of women and 3.31% (35/1059) of men had more than 15 years duration of sexual dysfunction. In severity, 5.7% (77/1344) of women and 7.0% (74/1059) of men had very severe sexual dysfunction. There were statistically significant differences in BMI, smoking, drinking history, hypertension, depression incidence or median (p<0.05). Alcohol consumption history [OR = 1.711, 95% CI: 1.124-2.604, p = 0.012] and depression [OR = 2.107, 95% CI: 1.109-4.356, p =0.044] were independent risk factors for sexual dysfunction. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was low among elderly in the southern part of China. But the course of the disease is long and the degree of the disease is very severe. Elderly with a history of drinking and depression are more prone to sexual dysfunction.

The Use of Azithromycin in Pediatric Typhoid Fever without Complication: A Case Report

Typhoid fever is an infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. The prevalence is still high among emerging countries, such as Indonesia. There are limited options for the treatment of typhoid fever in children and more so is complicated by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The use of azithromycin has evolved as an important drug in the treatment of typhoid. A male, aged 7 years and 2 months, was admitted to our hospital with remittent fever 4 days prior. The patient also presented with a period of cough since 2 days, and constipation, with full consciousness. The child had basic immunization completed for his age. He had a history of frequent consumption of street food. The diagnosis of typhoid fever was confirmed by serologic testing of positive 8 IgM Salmonella. Initially, the patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics of ceftriaxone for 8 days but shoed no clinical improvement, then the treatment was changed to intravenous azithromycin for 4 days and his condition improved greatly. The patient showed a better response with the use of azithromycin. The management of typhoid fever remains challenging up to this day with variations in treatment response. From this case, we can conclude that azithromycin in some patients may show better improvement in the management of typhoid fever in pediatric patients. Although, ceftriaxone and other third-generation cephalosporins are still highly effective against Salmonella typhi.