Cutoff Value Of Score Research Articles

Role of the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score in predicting thrombophlebitis among patients undergoing peripherally inserted central catheter.

This study analyzes the role of the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score (HALP), a pre-catheterization blood parameter, in predicting the occurrence of thrombophlebitis. We recruited 268 in-hospital patients who visited the Department of Oncology of our hospital and underwent peripherally inserted central catheter between January 2021 and January 2024. The cutoff value of the HALP score was defined using receiver's operating characteristic curve, and the differences were analyzed with log-rank test. The significance of HALP in predicting thrombophlebitis was evaluated using a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. A total of 240 patients were enrolled and divided into a high-HALP (≥31.4) group (n = 125) and a low-HALP (<31.4) group (n = 115). The relationship between the composition of HALP and clinical pathological parameters was analyzed. HALP was significantly correlated with gender (X2 = 4.74), limb restriction (X2 = 3.69), performance status score (X2 = 11.9), D-dimer (X2 = 7.88), and platelet count (X2 = 5.22). Multivariate regression analysis found male (hazard ratio [HR] 0.29 (0.12-0.69)), more puncture times (HR 0.01 (0.001-0.15)), lower HALP (HR 1.93 (0.82-4.52)), and sterile couplant (HR 20.6 (4.7-91.2)) were independent factors affecting the occurrence of thrombophlebitis. Receiver's operating characteristic curve analysis showed the area under the curve of the HALP score was 0.718 (95% confidence interval 0.638-0.798), which was significantly larger than the other 3 parameters. Hence, we believe the predictive efficiency of HALP is higher than other parameters. The pre-catheterization HALP score can be used as a simple, accessible, and reliable tool for predicting thrombophlebitis in patients to undergo peripherally inserted central catheter.

Parental Assessment of Postsurgical Pain in Infants at Home Using Artificial Intelligence-Enabled and Observer-Based Tools: Construct Validity and Clinical Utility Evaluation Study.

Pain assessment in the infant population is challenging owing to their inability to verbalize and hence self-report pain. Currently, there is a paucity of data on how parents identify and manage this pain at home using standardized pain assessment tools. This study aimed to explore parents' assessment and intervention of pain in their infants at home following same-day surgery, using standardized pain assessment tools. This prospective study initially recruited 109 infant boys undergoing circumcision (same-day surgery). To assess pain at home over 3 days after surgery, parents using iOS devices were assigned to use the PainChek Infant tool, which is a point-of-care artificial intelligence-enabled tool, while parents using Android devices were assigned to use the Observer-Administered Visual Analog Scale (ObsVAS) tool. Chi-square analysis compared the intervention undertaken and pain presence. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate outcomes related to construct validity and clinical utility. Receiver operating characteristic analysis assessed pain score cutoffs in relation to the intervention used. A total of 69 parents completed postsurgery pain assessments at home and returned their pain diaries. Of these 69 parents, 24 used ObsVAS and 45 used PainChek Infant. Feeding alone and feeding with medication were the most common pain interventions. Pain presence over time reduced. In the presence of pain, an intervention was likely to be administered (χ22=21.4; P<.001), with a medicinal intervention being 12.6 (95% CI 4.3-37.0; P<.001) times more likely and a nonmedicinal intervention being 5.2 (95% CI 1.8-14.6; P=.002) times more likely than no intervention. In the presence of intervention, score cutoff values were ≥2 for PainChek Infant and ≥20 for ObsVAS. A significant effect between the use of the pain instrument (χ21=7.2, P=.007) and intervention (χ22=43.4, P<.001) was found, supporting the construct validity of both instruments. Standardized pain scores were the highest when a medicinal intervention was undertaken (estimated marginal mean [EMM]=34.2%), followed by a nonmedicinal intervention (EMM=23.5%) and no intervention (EMM=11.2%). Similar trends were seen for both pain instruments. Pain was reduced in 94.5% (224/237) of assessments where parents undertook an intervention. In 75.1% (178/237) of assessments indicative of pain, the score changed from pain to no pain, with PainChek Infant assessments more likely to report this change (odds ratio 4.1, 95% CI 1.4-12.3) compared with ObsVAS assessments. The use of standardized pain assessment instruments by parents at home to assess pain in their infants can inform their decision-making regarding pain identification and management, including determining the effectiveness of the chosen intervention. In addition to the construct validity and clinical utility of PainChek Infant and ObsVAS in this setting, feeding alone and a combination of feeding with medication use were the key pain intervention strategies used by parents.

Early Prediction of Non Invasive Ventilation Failure and Mortality in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients using HACOR Score: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV) is an effective ventilatory measure in the exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However, the response among some patients is not favourable, leading to a requirement for invasive ventilation. This not only increases hospital stays but is also reported to elevate mortality rates. Therefore, there is a need for a scoring system that predicts NIV failures. The Heart rate, Acidosis, Consciousness, Oxygenation and Respiratory rate (HACOR) score is a promising tool that has demonstrated excellent predictive power in detecting early NIV failure. Aim: To predict NIV failure based on the HACOR score at two hours after the initiation of NIV in patients admitted for acute exacerbation of COPD with type 2 respiratory failure. Materials and Methods: The present hospital-based crosssectional study was conducted in the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Government Hospital for Chest and Communicable Diseases, Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India, from November 2023 to April 2024. A total of 70 patients admitted with acute exacerbation of COPD and type 2 respiratory failure were included. All five variables of the HACOR score were measured two hours after the initiation of NIV to predict early NIV failure. These variables include heart rate, arterial blood pH, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (consciousness), oxygenation and respiratory rate. After the initiation of NIV, the HACOR score was evaluated at various intervals. The diagnostic accuracy of the HACOR score in predicting NIV failure was recorded, which was the main outcome of the study. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve and Youden index were applied. The dependent variables were analysed using the Youden index to obtain the best cut-off value of the HACOR score. Results: Out of 70 patients, 66 (94.3%) were males and 4 (5.7%) were females, with a mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of 68.5±6.1 years. The study reported a 27.1% (19 patients) NIV failure rate based on the HACOR score measured after two hours of NIV. The total study population was divided into two groups based on the measured HACOR score cut-off value of 5. A total of 33 patients had a score ≥5, while 37 patients had a score &lt;5. Among the group with a score ≥5, 17 (51.5%) patients experienced NIV failure. In the group with a score &lt;5, 2 (5.4%) patients had NIV failure. The area under the ROC curve (AUROC) for the entire population was 0.899 for a score ≥5, with a sensitivity of 89.47% and a specificity of 86.27% in determining the outcome of NIV. Conclusion: The HACOR score is a simple bedside test that can effectively predict early NIV failure with good predictive power. A score ≥5 at two hours after the initiation of NIV therapy can be considered a cut-off value for predicting NIV failure.

The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score is associated with severe renal tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis in IgA nephropathy

ObjectivesThis study was performed to investigate the relationship between hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score and Oxford classification severe tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis (T2) in IgA nephropathy (IgAN).MethodsThe clinical data and pathological findings of patients with IgA nephropathy diagnosed through renal biopsy at Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between June 1, 2019 and May 31, 2022 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The HALP score was calculated as hemoglobin (g/L) × albumin (g/L) × lymphocytes (/L)/ platelets (/L). According to the quartile of HALP scores in the study population, the subjects were divided into four groups: Quartile 1 (< 30.72), Quartile 2 (30.72–39.97), Quartile 3 (39.97–53.25) and Quartile 4(> 53.25). According to the extent of tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis, patients were categorized into mild to moderate injury (T0 + T1, ≤ 50%) and severe injury (T2, > 50%). The relationship between HALP score and severe tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis was investigated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, logistic regression analysis, restricted cubic splines (RCS), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.ResultsA total of 895 patients diagnosed with IgAN were included in this study, with an average age of 40.97 ± 12.261 years. Among them, 384 (42.9%) were male and 61 (6.8%) exhibited severe tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis revealed that HALP independently influenced T2 (OR = 0.952, 95% CI 0.923–0.982, P = 0.002). Compared to Quartile 1, patients in Quartile 4 exhibited a significantly reduced risk of T2 (OR = 0.205, 95% CI 0.058–0.722, P = 0.014). Restricted cubic splines analysis revealed a linear inverse association between HALP and T2 risk (nonlinear P = 0.896). Furthermore, the receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated that HALP possessed predictive value for T2 (AUC = 0.693, Jorden index = 0.324), and the cutoff value of HALP score is 36.54.ConclusionsThe risk of severe renal tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis is higher in IgAN patients with low HALP. HALP greater than 36.54 May reduce the risk of severe tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis.

The HALP score predicts no-reflow phenomenon and long-term prognosis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Despite recent advances in the management of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the clinical outcome of some patients is still unsatisfactory. Therefore, early evaluation to identify high-risk individuals in STEMI patients is essential. The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score, as a new indicator that can reflect both nutritional status and inflammatory state of the body, can provide prognostic information. In this context, the present study was designed to investigate the relationship between HALP scores assessed at admission and no-reflow as well as long-term outcomes in patients with STEMI. A total of 1040 consecutive STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI were enrolled in this retrospective study. According to the best cutoff value of HALP score of 40.11, the study samples were divided into two groups. The long-term prognosis was followed up by telephone. Long-term mortality was significantly higher in patients with HALP scores lower than 40.11 than in those higher than 40.11. The optimal cutoff value of HALP score for predicting no-reflow was 41.38, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.727. The best cutoff value of HALP score for predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was 40.11, the AUC was 0.763. The incidence of MACE and all-cause mortality was higher in the HALP score <40.11 group. HALP score can independently predict the development of no-reflow and long-term mortality in STEMI patients undergoing PCI.

Electrocardiographic criteria for the diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with severe aortic stenosis

Abstract Introduction There is a lack of data regarding the performance of current electrocardiographic (EKG) criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Purpose To test the performance of the current EKG scores to diagnosis LVH in AS patients, and also to compare the performance of a new proposed score. Methods The present study evaluated 80 patients with severe AS that underwent cardiac magnetic resonance to diagnose LVH, defined as left ventricular indexed mass of 95 g/m² for female and 115 g/m² for male patients. The EKG criteria used for left ventricular hypertrophy were Sokolow-Lyon criteria, Romhilt-Estes point score system, Cornell voltage criteria and Peguero-Lo Presti criteria. Results Among the 80 patients included in analysis, 58.7% were male and the mean age was 64±8 years. There was a high prevalence of comorbidities, highlighting diabetes (32.5%), hypertension (67.5%), atrial fibrillation (5.0%) and coronary artery disease (11.3%). Regarding echocardiogram, the median left ventricle ejection fraction was 64 (56-68)% and the median indexed aortic valve area was 0.43 (0.35-0.49) cm²/m². Cardiac magnetic resonance analysis demonstrated a mean left ventricle mass of 168±55g, and the LVH incidence was 26.3%. Regarding EKG, Strain pattern was found in 49.1% of the patients, Cornell voltage criteria was positive in 51.3%, Sokolow-Lyon criteria in 51.3%, Romhilt-Estes point score system in 42.5% and Peguero-Lo Presti criteria in 61.3%. Discriminative capacity of electrocardiographic criteria for LVH is shown in Figure 1. Peguero-Lo Presti score had the best diagnostic accuracy in the overall population and in male sex (AUC 0.776), while Cornell voltage criteria had the best diagnostic accuracy in female patients (AUC 0.776). Based on linear regression model, the proposed score was created to predict LVH at cardiac magnetic resonance: 48 + (1.3 x Deepest S wave) + (0.5 x S wave in V1 or V2 plus R wave in V5). The proposed score cutoff value of 90.5 mm had a sensitivity of 0.765 and specificity of 0.707 (for male sex: 0.769 and 0.655, respectively; for female sex: 0.750 and 0.759, respectively). Compared to the scores described in the literature, the proposed score had the best area AUC for the overall population (Figure 1), for female and male patients (AUC 0.796, 0.819 and 0.780, respectively). Conclusion In patients with severe AS, the proposed score had the best diagnostic accuracy compared to the scores described in the literature for LVH identification, followed by Peguero-Lo Presti score, even when analyzed based on gender. Besides, the proposed score had also acceptable sensitivity and specificity for LVH detection.AUC of electrocardiographic scores.

FORTA Score and Negative Outcomes in Older Adults: Insights from Italian Internal Medicine Wards

Objectives: The study aimed to assess the relationship between the Fit fOR The Aged (FORTA) score – a classification system designed to evaluate medication appropriateness in older adults – and several negative outcomes, including impaired cognitive performance, functional status, adverse clinical events, and all-cause mortality at 3, 6, and 12 months after hospital discharge. Methods: This retrospective study utilized data from the ELICADHE cohort, a cluster-randomized trial conducted across 20 Italian internal medicine and geriatric wards. The study included patients aged 75 and older with complete FORTA score assessments. Demographics, medication history, and comorbidities were collected. The FORTA classification system assessed medication appropriateness. FORTA scores were calculated and FORTA score cut-offs (3 and 5) were applied. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, survival analysis with Cox regression, logistic regression, and negative-binomial regression using SAS 9.4 and RStudio 12.1. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: Of the 506 patients included, 171 (33.8%) were fully assessable with complete FORTA scores. The study found no significant association between higher FORTA scores and impaired cognitive performance, functional status, or mortality. Additionally, no clear relationship was observed between FORTA scores and adverse clinical events or mortality. The analysis indicated that age was a significant factor associated with mortality and adverse clinical events. Conclusion: The study did not find a significant relationship between the FORTA score and negative outcomes in older patients discharged from internal medicine and geriatric wards. Further research is needed to define specific FORTA score cut-off values and expand the criteria to improve medication assessment in this population.

Prediction of complications after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: feasibility of E‑PASS score.

With significant advancements in laparoscopic procedures and tools over the last decade, the partial nephrectomy (PN) surgical approach has gradually transformed from open to laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN). Although numerous studies evaluating the postoperative complications of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy can be found in the literature, a scoring system that addresses both preoperative physical condition and intraoperative risk factors has not yet been established. The Estimation of Physiological Ability and Surgical Stress (E-PASS) score is a scoring system that considers both the patient's preoperative condition and intraoperative variables to predict the risk of postoperative complications in surgically treated patients. This study aimed to assess the applicability of the E-PASS scoring system for predicting postoperative complications following LPN. We analyzed data of 196 patients who underwent LPN between 2017 and 2024 by a single surgeon in this single-center retrospective study. Demographic data of the patients, parameters reflecting patients' preoperative physical condition, and intraoperative risk factors were recorded. Postoperative complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system. The E-PASS score and its sub-scores were calculated for each patient. Various degrees of complications developed in 46 patients (23.5%). Patients who developed complications had significantly higher mean age, performance scores, tumor sizes, length of hospital stay, and E-PASS values. The cutoff value of the E-PASS Comprehensive Risk Score (CRS) for predicting the development of postoperative complications was determined to be -0.1692 (AUC = 0.676; 95% CI 0.581-0.771; p < 0.001). According to the results of the multivariate analysis, the presence of E-PASS CRS > -0.1692 (OR 4.872; 95% CI 2.384-9.957; p < 0.001) and tumor size (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1-1.041; p = 0.047) was identified as independent risk factors predicting postoperative complications. Patients with a CRS higher than the cutoff value had a 4.87 times higher rate of postoperative complications after LPN. The E-PASS scoring model successfully predicts postoperative complications in patients undergoing LPN by utilizing preoperative data on the patient's physical condition and surgical risk factors. The E-PASS score and its sub-scores can serve as objective criteria to determine the risk of postoperative complications both preoperatively and immediately postoperatively.

Deficient functional wound closure as measured by elevated trans-epidermal water loss predicts chronic wound recurrence: An exploratory observational study

A single-center, prospective, observational pilot study was performed to evaluate wound healing endpoint and recurrence by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL) post-closure at the site of wound repair. Patients with clinically-defined chronic wounds (such as pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and trauma wounds) who visited the Plastic Surgery outpatient department or were in-patients at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, India, and were referred for chronic wound management, were enrolled. Non-invasive point-of-care TEWL measurements were obtained, from closed wound-site and contralateral healthy skin site, starting from confirmation of closure (post-closure, V0) continuing every 2 weeks for a maximum of five visits or until the wound recurred. Statistical analyses of the data involved logistic regression and likelihood ratio chi-square tests to assess differences in TEWL at visit 0 (V0) between the closed wound site and reference skin, with the TEWL score as the sole predictor of recurrence. Of the 72 subjects that completed the study, 44 (61%) showed no recurrence and 28 (39%) had wounds that recurred over a period of 12 weeks. A significant association was found between the V0 (post-closure) TEWL score and the odds of wound recurrence, both in univariate analysis (OR [95%CI] = 1.26[1.14,1.42] (p < 0.001) and after adjusting for covariates in multivariable analysis (OR [95%CI] = 1.34[1.19,1.61] (p < 0.001). The likelihood ratio chi-square analysis demonstrated that the V0 TEWL score is a significant universal predictor of recurrence across all wound types studied. Cases of closed wounds with subsequent recurrence showed an overall higher post-closure V0 TEWL score, compared to those who did not have a wound recurrence, across visits. The TEWL score cut-off value predictive of recurrence was 24.1 g.m–2.h–1 (AUC = 0.967). The outcome of this pilot study on a wide range of chronic wounds leads to the hypothesis that post-closure TEWL at the site of wound healing is a reliable biomarker of wound recurrence. It also raises the question whether the clinical endpoint of wound closure should include re-establishment of skin barrier function as additional criterion. The current standard of care wound closure endpoint calls for re-epithelialization of the wound with no discharge for two consecutive weeks disregarding the functional parameter of restoration of skin barrier function at the wound-site.

Effect of hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score on prognosis in intermediate-risk endometrial cancer according to molecular-based classification.

The aim of this study is to compare the relationship between molecular classification and HALP score in endometrial cancer (EC). Patients who were operated with the diagnosis of EC 2014 and 2024 were included in our study. 150 patients were included in the study. We divided the patients into three groups in terms of molecular classification; group 1 was the patients with POLE mutation, group 2 was the patients with MMRd and NSMP (intermediate prognosis), and group 3 was the patients with p53 mutation. Group 2 participants were divided into two groups, a low HALP score group and a high HALP score group, according to the HALP score cut-off value. Using the value with the highest Youden's index (0.306) as a basis, it was demonstrated that the HALP score with a cut-off value of 33.735 has a sensitivity of 61.86% and a specificity of 68.75% in intermediate-risk EC. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was found to be 75.4% in intermediate-risk EC patients with low HALP scores and 91.5% in intermediate-risk EC patients with high HALP scores (p = 0.008). The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) was found to be 86% in intermediate-risk EC patients with low HALP scores and 94.4% in intermediate-risk EC patients with high HALP scores (p = 0.089). MMR deficiency and NSMP have been considered intermediate-risk groups for endometrial cancer and are a heterogeneous group. Although the use of the HALP score to reduce this heterogeneity is successful in predicting OS, it is not sufficient for PFS.

Can maternal inflammatory and nutritional status, evaluated by the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in the first trimester, predict late-onset fetal growth restriction?

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of immunonutritional markers, specifically the hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), in predicting late-onset fetal growth restriction (LO-FGR) during the first trimester.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center between October 2022 and August 2023. The study included a total of 213 singleton pregnancies, with 99 women in the LO-FGR group and 114 in the healthy control group, matched by maternal age and gestational age at delivery. All blood samples were collected between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation (during the first-trimester screening test). We analyzed first-trimester laboratory parameters, specifically focusing on hemoglobin levels, white blood cells (WBCs), lymphocytes, platelets, and albumin levels. Afterwards, we calculated the HALP score and PNI, and then compared the values of both groups.ResultsBoth HALP score (3.58 ± 1.31 vs. 4.19 ± 1.8, p = 0.012) and PNI (36.75 ± 2.9 vs. 39.37 ± 3.96, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the FGR group than in the control group. The HALP score cut-off value of < 3.43 in predicting FGR had a sensitivity of 62.3% and specificity of 54.5% (AUC = 0.600, 95% CI: 0.528–0.672, p = 0.012). The PNI cut-off value of < 37.9 in predicting FGR had a sensitivity of 65.8% and specificity of 62.9% (AUC = 0.707, 95% CI: 0.632–0.778, p < 0.001). While the HALP score was not a significant predictor of composite adverse neonatal outcomes in the FGR group, PNI showed a cut-off value of < 37.7 with a sensitivity of 60.9% and specificity of 59.7% (AUC = 0.657, 95% CI: 0.581–0.733, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe HALP score and PNI are valuable prognostic tools for predicting the risk of FGR in the first trimester. Low PNI values are also associated with composite adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by FGR.

Relationship between EZH2 expression and prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma using a pathomics predictive model

BackgroundEnhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH2) is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma, promoting tumorigenesis and correlating with poor prognosis. Traditional histopathological examinations are insufficient to accurately predict hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) survival; however, pathomics models can predict EZH2 expression and HCC prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between pathomics features and EZH2 expression for predicting overall survival of patients with HCC. MethodsWe analyzed 267 patients with HCC from the Cancer Genome Atlas database, with available pathological images and gene expression data. RNA sequencing data were divided into high and low EZH2 expression groups for prognosis and survival analysis. Pathological image features were screened using mRMR_RFE. A pathological model was constructed using a gradient boosting machine (GBM) algorithm, and efficiency evaluation and survival analysis of the model were performed. The R package “survminer” took the pathomics score (PS) cutoff value of 0.4628 to divide the patients into two groups: high and low PS expression. Survival analyses included Kaplan–Meier curve analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, and interaction tests. Potential pathomechanisms were explored through enrichment, differential, immune cell infiltration abundance, and gene mutation analyses. ResultEZH2 was highly expressed in tumor samples but poorly expressed in normal tissue samples. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that EZH2 was an independent risk factor for HCC (hazard ratio [HR], 2.792 and 3.042, respectively). Seven imaging features were selected to construct a pathomics model to predict EZH2. Decision curve analysis showed that the model had high clinical utility. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that high PS expression was an independent risk factor for HCC prognosis (HR, 2.446). The Kaplan–Meier curve showed that high PS expression was a risk factor for overall survival. ConclusionEZH2 expression can affect the prognosis of patients with liver cancer. Our pathological model could predict EZH2 expression and prognosis of patients with HCC with high accuracy and robustness, making it a new and potentially valuable tool.

Prognostic model for predicting recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with high systemic immune-inflammation index based on machine learning in a multicenter study.

This study aims to use machine learning to conduct in-depth analysis of key factors affecting the recurrence of HCC patients with high preoperative systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) levels after receiving ablation treatment, and based on this, construct a nomogram model for predicting recurrence-free survival (RFS) of patients. This study included clinical data of 505 HCC patients who underwent ablation therapy at Beijing You'an Hospital from January 2014 to January 2020, and accepted 65 HCC patients with high SII levels from Beijing Ditan Hospital as an external validation cohort. 505 patients from Beijing You'an Hospital were divided into low SII and high SII groups based on the optimal cutoff value of SII scores. The high SII group was further randomly divided into training and validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio. eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), random survival forest (RSF), and multivariate Cox regression analysis, were used to explore the factors affecting the post-ablation RFS of HCC patients. Based on the identified key factors, a nomogram model were developed to predict RFS in HCC patients, and their performance were evaluated using the concordance index (C index), receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). The optimal cutoff value for nomogram scores was used to divide patients into low- and high-risk groups, and the effectiveness of the model in risk stratification was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival curves. This study confirmed that age, BCLC stage, tumor number, and GGT level were independent risk factors affecting RFS in HCC patients. Based on the selected risk factors, an RFS nomogram was successfully constructed. The C-index, ROC curve, calibration curve, and DCA curve each demonstrated the discrimination, accuracy, and decision-making utility of the nomogram, indicating that it has good predictive performance. KM curve revealed the nomogram could significantly differentiate patient populations with different recurrence risk. We developed a reliable nomogram that can accurately predict the 1-, 3-, and 5-year RFS for HCC patients with high SII levels following ablation therapy.

The relationship of pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) and HALP score with prognosis in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Because earlier studies have proven a link between hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) scores and inflammation, we examined if these 2 markers had predictive value in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). In the intensive care unit, 444 patients with and without AF were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with and without AF were compared with regard to their HALP and PIV scores. High and low categories of HALP and PIV scores were established based on the cutoff values. Furthermore, using receiver operating characteristic analysis, the mortality predictive efficacy of these scores was assessed in 230 patients with AF. Patients with AF had a significantly higher PIV score than those without AF; however, the HALP score found to be lower (P < .05 for all groups). The receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that the HALP score exhibited a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 75.3% at a cutoff value of 2.037 (AUC: 0.753, P < .001). The PIV score cutoff value was 1062.7, but the sensitivity and specificity were both 55.7% and 55.8%, respectively (AUC: 0.571, P < .05). The mechanical ventilation requirement and in-hospital mortality rate were significantly higher in the high PIV (PIV > 1062.7) and low HALP (HALP ≤ 2.037) groups. There is a significant association between the HALP and PIV scores assessed upon admission and critically ill patients with AF. Although the HALP score serves as a powerful prognostic factor for these patients, the PIV lacks the capability to predict mortality.

The controlling nutritional status score as a new prognostic predictor in patients with cervical cancer receiving radiotherapy: a propensity score matching analysis

BackgroundAs assessment tools of nutritional status, the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) and modified controlling nutritional status (mCONUT) score are associated with survival in various cancers. We aimed to investigate the association between the CONUT/mCONUT score’s prognostic value and survival time in patients with FIGO stage IIB–IIIB cervical cancer treated with radiotherapy.MethodsIn this retrospective study, 165 patients between September 2013 and September 2015 were analyzed, and the optimal CONUT/mCONUT score cut-off values were determined using receiver operating characteristic curves. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to minimize selection bias. The Kaplan–Meier method and a Cox proportional hazard model were used to assess the CONUT/mCONUT score’s predictive value linked to survival time. Two nomograms were created to predict the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).ResultsThe cut-off values for CONUT and mCONUT score were both 2. Five-year OS and PFS rates were higher in a low CONUT score group than in a high CONUT score group (OS: 81.1% vs. 53.8%, respectively, P < 0.001; PFS: 76.4% vs. 48.2%, respectively; P < 0.001). A high CONUT score was associated with decreased OS (hazard ratio (HR) 2.93, 95% CI 1.54–5.56; P = 0.001) and PFS (HR 2.77, 95% CI 1.52–5.04; P < 0.001). High CONUT scores influenced OS in the PSM cohort. A high mCONUT score was not associated with decreased OS and PFS in Cox regression analysis.ConclusionThe CONUT score is a promising indicator for predicting survival in patients with cervical cancer receiving radiotherapy.

The Mayo Adhesive Probability Score as a Predictor of Postoperative Renal Function in Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Mayo Adhesive Probability (MAP) score as a predictor of split renal function deterioration after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). A total of 30 patients who underwent RAPN were identified retrospectively. The parameters evaluated included patient characteristics, tumor diameter, MAP score, warm ischemic time (WIT), and renal function. Split renal function was evaluated using Tc-99m DTPA renal scintigraphy before and six months after surgery. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Nine patients (30.0%) showed more than 90% preservation of split renal function on the operated side. The MAP score (p=0.015), cT1b tumor (p=0.0002), and WIT (p=0.044) were associated with preservation of split renal function six months after surgery on univariate analysis. The MAP score was the strongest predictor of preservation of split renal function six months after surgery on multivariable analysis (p=0.007). On receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the MAP score (cutoff value 3.0; p=0.01) was a significant predictor of split renal function six months after surgery. The MAP score was significantly associated with postoperative split renal function six months after RAPN on the operated kidney side. The MAP score is useful for predicting split renal function after RAPN.

Epilepsy knowledge scale for parents (EKS-P): Development and psychometric evaluation in Turkish sample

BackgroundEpilepsy is the most prevalent chronic neurological condition in childhood, affecting approximately 0.5%–1% of children worldwide. ObjectiveThis study aimed to (1) develop an “Epilepsy Knowledge Scale for Parents”, (2) evaluate the content validity of the scale, and (3) assess its psychometric properties. MethodsThis methodological study was conducted in a tertiary hospital's pediatric neurology outpatient clinic in Turkey. The study comprised two stages involving 500 parents of children with epilepsy. The first stage included validity and reliability analyses, while the second stage involved the calculation of the scale scoring. ResultsExploratory Factor Analysis for the preliminary scale development with 36 items based on expert opinions yielded 29 items and three dimensions. The factors explained 62.83% of the total variance, and the scale exhibited high reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.885). Confirmatory Factor Analysis, it was determined that the fit indices were at acceptable (CFI = 0.957, NFI = 0.932) or good level (χ2/df = 2.32, RMSEA = 0.048, GFI = 0.951). Consequently, a final structure comprising 29 items and three dimensions was obtained. The scale score's cutoff value was set at 15.50 points, with scores above this value indicating diagnostic value with 55.6% sensitivity and 80.2% specificity. ConclusionsThe study demonstrated that the “Epilepsy Knowledge Scale for Parents (EKS-P)”, designed to assess parents' knowledge of epilepsy, is a reliable and valid measurement tool for the Turkish population. Implications for practiceThis scale (EKS-P) developed for parents is recommended to be used in clinical settings and both experimental and non-experimental research.

Momentousness of integration of the high-resolution computed tomography scoring systems with pulmonary artery systolic pressure measurement for inference of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis severity

BackgroundThe importance of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in the diagnosis of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) is being recognized more and more. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is common in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the presence of PAH is linked to higher mortality rates and might explain why some people who otherwise have normal pulmonary function are displaying symptoms of deterioration. The aim of this work was to find out the potency of integration of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scoring system with pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) for ascertaining the disease severity of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and to predict the prognosis for proper management, along with incorporation of the key disparity of different HRCT scoring systems for the ILD.ResultsThis prospective study included 80 patients, who came with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.989) was noted between total lung zone HRCT score and PASP, pulmonary artery size, grades of dyspnea and PCO2. Nonetheless, total lung zone HRCT score proved to have good correlation and inversely proportional to (r = − 0.71) 6MWT, PO2, SPO2, FVC and FEV1/FVC. We utilized a ROC curve to identify the optimal cutoff value in HRCT scoring systems, for detecting pulmonary hypertension associated with the IPF. The sensitivity and specificity of Warrick score cutoff value was higher compared to that of the HRCT scoring system-based grading scale. Both HRCT scoring systems attained high correlation coefficient factors with various incorporated parameters in the study.ConclusionWe can safely say that in order to reveal the severity and prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a high-resolution computed tomography scoring system should be incorporated with echocardiography measurement of pulmonary artery systolic pressure —which proved to be the most potent predictive factor; especially when measured after a specific HRCT score cutoff value—followed by (FEV1/FVC), the 6MWT and the severity of dyspnea. Their integration collectively will aid in precise management and follow-up of IPF cases. Both HRCT scoring systems proved to be potent and perfect for short-term interval follow-up, yet the Warrick score was easier and faster to use and attained relatively increased sensitivity and specificity for the cutoff value of the pulmonary hypertension detection compared to the HRCT scoring system-based grading scale.

The relationship between preoperative hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score and right colon cancer surgery outcomes: a retrospective cohort study

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the association between the preoperative Hemoglobin Albumin Lymphocyte Platelet (HALP) score and surgical outcomes in right colon cancer patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients undergoing elective right colon adenocarcinoma surgery from January 2017 to June 2023 at Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital. The HALP score, calculated from hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet levels, aimed to predict perioperative morbidity through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The study involved 67 patients, mostly male with an average age of 68.28 years, undergoing 46 open and 21 laparoscopic surgeries. Although the HALP score's cutoff value was established, it did not significantly predict perioperative morbidity (P&amp;gt;0.05). However, lower platelet counts (&amp;lt;318×103/L) and open surgery type correlated significantly with higher morbidity (P&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusions: This study reveals that the HALP score may not effectively predict perioperative morbidity in right colon cancer surgeries, highlighting platelet counts as a more promising marker. Our findings also confirm the increased morbidity associated with open surgeries, challenging existing assumptions and guiding clinical practice.

Validating the CHAMPS Score: A Novel and Reliable Prognostic Score of Non-Variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding.

The Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥2, in-Hospital onset, Albumin <2.5 g/dL, altered Mental status, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance status ≥2, Steroid use (CHAMPS) score is a novel and promising prognostic tool. We present an initial external validation of the CHAMPS score for predicting mortality in acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) across multiple clinical outcomes. A prospective cohort study was conducted on adult patients with NVUGIB admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology between November 2022 and June 2023. The CHAMPS score performance in predicting in-hospital outcomes was evaluated by employing area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves, followed by a comparative analysis with five pre-existing scores. A total of 140 patients were included in the study. The CHAMPS score showed its highest performance in predicting mortality rates (AUROC = 0.89), significantly outperforming the Glasgow-Blatchford Bleeding Score (GBS) as well as the Albumin level <3.0 mg/dL, International normalized ratio >1.5, altered Mental status, Systolic blood pressure ≤90 mmHg, and age >65 years (AIMS65) score (AUROC = 0.72 and 0.71, respectively; all p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis for bleeding-related and non-bleeding-related mortality further confirmed the robust predictive capability of the CHAMPS score (AUROC = 0.88 and 0.87, respectively). The CHAMPS score failed to predict rebleeding and intervention reliably, exhibiting AUROC values of 0.43 and 0.55, respectively. The optimal CHAMPS score cutoff value for predicting mortality was 3 points, achieving 100% sensitivity and 71.2% specificity. In the low-risk category defined by both CHAMPS and GBS scores, mortality and rebleeding rates were 0%. However, within the CHAMPS score-based low-risk group, 58.8% required intervention, contrasting with a 0% intervention rate for the GBS score-based low-risk group (GBS score ≤1). The CHAMPS score consistently demonstrated a robust predictive performance for mortality (AUROC > 0.8), facilitating the identification of high-risk patients requiring aggressive treatment and low-risk patients in need of localized treatment or safe discharge after successful bleeding control.